Coming from San Luis, Arizona, a town right on the U.S.-Mexico border, I’ve always lived in two worlds. My family is originally from Mexico, and navigating between two cultures has been a significant part of my life. The transition to higher education in the United States has added another layer to this experience, as I’ve faced unique challenges related to language, adapting to a new culture, and managing financial stress. Growing up in a low-income household with a single parent, I witnessed firsthand the struggles my mother faced to provide for us. Despite these hardships, my family’s support, though not financial, has always been unwavering. They encouraged me to pursue my education, even when it seemed like the obstacles were too great. I’ve learned that education is the key to breaking the cycle of poverty and creating a better future for myself and my community. While there are many ways to earn a living in today’s world, such as through social media, I believe pursuing a college degree is crucial. A STEM education provides not only the skills needed to succeed in today’s economy but also the credibility and opportunities that are vital for making a lasting impact. I want to use the knowledge I gain to create solutions for underrepresented communities, especially those in low-income and Hispanic neighborhoods like the one I grew up in. Pursuing a degree is about more than personal success, it’s about giving back and helping others who face similar challenges. This scholarship will help me continue on that path, turning the obstacles I’ve faced into opportunities for growth and making a difference for others.

My desired career path is to become a software engineer with a focus on developing innovative solutions that address societal challenges. Growing up as a first-generation American with Mexican heritage, I have witnessed the obstacles faced by underserved communities, particularly those of Hispanic background. These experiences have fueled my passion for using technology as a tool to create positive change, and I am committed to pursuing a career where I can make a meaningful impact. To achieve my goals, I have taken several steps to prepare myself both academically and professionally. I am currently pursuing an Associate's degree in Computer Science, Physics, and Engineering at Arizona Western College, with plans to transfer to the University of Arizona to earn a Bachelor's degree in Software Engineering. My academic journey has been driven by a strong desire to understand the intricacies of technology and how it can be harnessed to solve real-world problems. I have also gained valuable experience working as a Financial Aid Federal Work-study, where I assist first-time applicants in securing funding for their education. This role has not only strengthened my problem-solving and communication skills but has also deepened my understanding of the barriers faced by low-income students in accessing higher education. In addition to my academic and work experiences, my passion for software engineering is rooted in my love for problem-solving and creativity. I have always been fascinated by the power of technology to transform ideas into reality, and I am particularly interested in developing software that can improve education, healthcare, and community engagement. My experiences and interests align closely with my chosen career path in software engineering. I have a deep understanding of the challenges faced by underserved communities, and I am passionate about using my skills to develop solutions that address these challenges. I am also driven by a strong sense of responsibility to give back to my community and to use my talents to create positive change. In my future profession, I envision myself working on projects that have a tangible impact on society. Whether it's developing educational tools that make learning more accessible or creating software that improves public health outcomes, I am committed to using my skills to make a difference. I also hope to inspire and mentor the next generation of software engineers, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds, by sharing my experiences and knowledge. In conclusion, my desired career path is to become a software engineer who uses technology to address societal challenges and create positive change. I am confident that my experiences, skills, and interests align with this goal, and I am committed to taking the necessary steps to achieve my dreams. By pursuing a career in software engineering, I hope to make a lasting impact on my community and contribute to a more equitable and just society.

Leadership is not about holding a title or having authority; it is about inspiring others, creating positive change, and empowering those around you. For me, leadership has been defined by my experiences as a first-generation American and the challenges I’ve faced along my educational journey. My name is Vladimir Gurrola Paredes, and I am pursuing an Associate's degree in Computer Science, Physics, and Engineering at Arizona Western College, with plans to transfer to the University of Arizona to earn a Bachelor's degree in Software Engineering. My leadership qualities have been shaped by a deep commitment to education, a desire to uplift my community, and a determination to overcome obstacles that have stood in my way. Growing up in San Luis, Arizona, a small town on the border between the United States and Mexico, I was surrounded by individuals who worked tirelessly to provide for their families. My parents, who immigrated to this country in search of a better life, instilled in me the importance of education and hard work. As the first in my family to pursue higher education, I understood the significance of my journey, not just for myself, but for those who would come after me. This realization has fueled my ambition and drive to succeed, and it has also shaped my approach to leadership. One of the most significant ways I have demonstrated leadership is through my work in supporting and mentoring younger students from low-income neighborhoods. I have taught middle school students how to play chess and tutored them in STEM subjects, believing that these activities not only stimulate their intellectual curiosity but also build critical thinking and problem-solving skills. My goal has always been to inspire these students to see beyond their current circumstances and recognize the potential they have to achieve great things. By sharing my own experiences and challenges, I hope to serve as a role model who demonstrates that it is possible to overcome adversity and achieve success. In addition to my work with younger students, I have also taken on leadership roles within my college community. As a Financial Aid Federal Work-study employee, I assist first-time applicants in navigating the complexities of securing funding for their education. This role has allowed me to develop a deeper understanding of the financial barriers that many students face and has reinforced my belief in the importance of making higher education accessible to all. My leadership in this area is not just about providing information or assistance; it is about advocating for students and ensuring they have the resources they need to succeed. Leadership, in my view, is about impact. It is about the difference you make in the lives of others and the legacy you leave behind. I strive to be a leader who not only achieves personal success but also lifts others up along the way. My ambition is to create lasting change, both within my community and in the broader world, by using education and technology as powerful tools for empowerment. In conclusion, what makes me a leader is my unwavering commitment to education, my dedication to serving others, and my determination to overcome challenges. I am driven by the belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential, and I am committed to making that a reality for as many people as I can. This scholarship would provide me with the support I need to continue my educational journey and further develop my leadership skills, allowing me to make an even greater impact in the future.

My name is Vladimir Gurrola Paredes, and I come from a family of immigrants who have shaped my beliefs about the world and my aspirations for the future. My family’s journey to the United States from San Luis, Rio Colorado, Mexico is a testament to resilience, hard work, and the unwavering belief in the power of education as a means to build a better life. As a first-generation American, I have grown up witnessing the struggles and sacrifices my family made, which have profoundly influenced my perspective on the world and my career aspirations. From a young age, my parents instilled in me the importance of education. They knew that it was the key to overcoming the challenges that often accompany immigrant life in the United States. Despite the language barriers, cultural differences, and economic hardships they faced, my parents were determined to provide my siblings and me with opportunities they never had. Their commitment to our education was not just about securing better jobs or a stable future; it was about breaking the cycle of poverty and creating a legacy of empowerment for future generations. Growing up, I often felt the weight of their expectations, but rather than feeling burdened, I was inspired. I saw how my parents, despite their limited English skills and formal education, managed to navigate the complexities of American society. They worked long hours in physically demanding jobs, yet they never wavered in their support for my academic pursuits. Their resilience taught me that obstacles are not meant to deter us but to strengthen our resolve. My family's story has also shaped my beliefs about the importance of giving back to the community. My parents' struggles were not just personal challenges; they were a reflection of the broader struggles faced by many immigrant families in this country. This understanding has fueled my desire to use my education and skills to help others in similar situations. I believe that as immigrants, we have a unique perspective and set of experiences that can contribute to the growth and development of our communities. My career aspirations in software engineering are deeply rooted in this belief. I want to use technology to create solutions that address the challenges faced by underserved communities, particularly low-income and Hispanic populations. My goal is to develop software that promotes inclusivity, provides educational resources, and empowers individuals to improve their lives. I am particularly passionate about creating programs that can help bridge the gap in STEM education for students in low-income areas, similar to the one I grew up in. I believe that access to quality education should not be a privilege reserved for the few but a right for all. In pursuing my degree in Computer Science, Physics, and Engineering at Arizona Western College, and eventually transferring to the University of Arizona, I carry with me the lessons my family has taught me. Their story is one of perseverance, ambition, and the unwavering belief in the power of education. It is a story that has shaped my understanding of the world and my role in it. I am committed to using my skills and knowledge to honor their sacrifices by making a positive impact on the world, just as they have done for me. The Carlos F. Garcia Muentes Scholarship represents more than just financial support; it embodies the spirit of ambition and resilience that has defined my family's journey. With this scholarship, I aim to continue their legacy by pursuing my educational dreams and using my career to create a better life for myself, my family, and my community.

Chess is much more than a mere pastime for me; it is a profound metaphor for life itself. The skills developed through playing chess, strategic thinking, patience, problem-solving, and foresight are essential not only for success on the board but also in real-life situations. My experience with chess has significantly shaped my approach to both personal and academic challenges, guiding me toward my career goals in software engineering. As a student currently pursuing an Associate's degree in Computer Science, Physics, and Engineering at Arizona Western College, my ambition is to transfer to the University of Arizona to earn a Bachelor's degree in Software Engineering. My ultimate goal is to leverage my expertise in technology to develop innovative solutions that address the challenges faced by underserved communities, particularly low-income and Hispanic populations. I aim to create software that can drive social impact, promote inclusivity, and provide educational resources to those who need them the most. Chess has taught me that every move matters, both on the board and in life. The game requires a deep understanding of strategy, planning several moves ahead, anticipating your opponent’s actions, and adapting to unexpected challenges. These skills are directly transferable to my career goals in software engineering, where strategic thinking is crucial. Just as in chess, developing software solutions involves anticipating user needs, planning the architecture of a system, and adapting to technological advancements or unforeseen obstacles. One of the most valuable lessons chess has imparted is the importance of patience and persistence. Knowing that my long term goals have a long and arduous path awaiting me, having patience to take things one step at a time whilst taking the future into account has been crucial for my improvement both in life and academically. Whether it’s debugging a complex piece of code, learning a new programming language, or iterating on a project until it meets the desired outcome. Chess has ingrained in me the understanding that setbacks are part of the journey and that persistence is key to overcoming them. Chess is a game of constant problem-solving. Each move presents a new challenge that requires critical thinking and the ability to weigh multiple options before making a decision.In software engineering, problem-solving is at the core of the discipline, whether it’s finding an efficient algorithm to handle large datasets, designing a user-friendly interface, or troubleshooting a system error. The ability to predict future scenarios based on current actions known as foresight is another skill that chess has helped me develop. In life, as in chess, the ability to anticipate challenges and opportunities is crucial. This skill is especially important in the rapidly evolving field of technology, where staying ahead of trends and being adaptable to change can determine success. Chess has taught me to always consider the long-term implications of my decisions, a mindset that will guide me in my career as I strive to create software that remains relevant and effective in addressing societal needs. Chess has prepared me for many of life’s challenges that I have faced and will continue to face. The strategic thinking, patience, problem-solving, and foresight that I have developed through chess are the same qualities that will drive my success in software engineering. As I continue my education and work toward my career goals, I am confident that the lessons I’ve learned from chess will guide me in making thoughtful decisions, overcoming obstacles, and ultimately achieving my vision of using technology to make positive a impact on the world.

My name is Vladimir Gurrola Paredes, and I am currently pursuing an Associate's degree in Computer Science, Physics, and Engineering at Arizona Western College. My journey has been one marked by perseverance and determination, qualities that have been shaped by the challenges I’ve faced and overcome. Growing up as a first-generation American in San Luis, Arizona, I encountered significant obstacles early on. As a 5-year-old, I began kindergarten in Yuma, a town 40 minutes away, where I struggled with a language barrier and the challenge of being accepted as a first-generation American. Learning English was a daunting task. For years, I stumbled over words, facing discouragement from some teachers and peers who made me feel unwelcome. They would tell me I didn’t belong in this country, and as a young boy, those words often made me question my place here. However, rather than letting those negative experiences define me, I used them as fuel to push myself forward. I spent countless hours reading children's books in English and practicing writing at home, determined to catch up to my peers. My family, who has always been my greatest support, helped me through this journey. They encouraged me, practiced pronunciation with me, and reminded me that I was capable of achieving anything I set my mind to. Their love and support exemplified the concept of Agape love, a selfless, unconditional love that expects nothing in return. Despite the challenges, I remained steadfast in my desire to pursue an education, particularly in the STEM fields. Unfortunately, growing up in a low-income community, I had limited access to STEM programs. However, I refused to let this obstacle deter me. I sought out knowledge on my own, spending time in libraries to learn about subjects that fascinated me—space, robotics, and technology. My love for mathematics, a universal language that transcends barriers, became a driving force in my education. I thrived in math, and it became clear to me that I wanted to pursue a career in software engineering. As I continued my education, I realized the importance of giving back to my community, especially to those who face similar challenges. I have been fortunate to work with middle school students from low-income neighborhoods, teaching them how to play chess and tutoring them in STEM subjects. This experience has shown me the profound impact that education and mentorship can have on young lives. It is my way of giving back, of showing the same Agape love that my family showed me, and of helping others overcome the obstacles in their paths. The challenges I faced in my early years taught me the value of persistence, resilience, and the power of love and support. They have shaped me into a person who is not only determined to succeed but also committed to helping others do the same. This scholarship would allow me to continue my education, further develop my skills, and continue giving back to the community that has shaped me. I am driven by the belief that our circumstances do not define us, but rather, it is how we respond to those circumstances that truly matters. I am committed to using my education to make a positive impact, to inspire others to overcome their challenges and to embody the principles of Agape love in all that I do.

My name is Vladimir Gurrola Paredes, and I am currently pursuing an Associate's degree in Computer Science, Physics, and Engineering at Arizona Western College. My journey has been shaped by a deep passion for technology and a commitment to using my skills to create positive change in society. As I work toward transferring to the University of Arizona to earn a Bachelor's degree in Software Engineering, I am driven by the belief that education is the key to uplifting individuals and communities. Growing up as a first-generation American in San Luis, Arizona, I faced significant challenges, including a language barrier and the struggle for acceptance. As a 5-year-old entering kindergarten in Yuma, I found myself grappling with a new language and a new environment. It took years of perseverance, with the support of my family, to overcome these obstacles. Despite the discouragement I faced from some teachers and peers, I remained determined to prove that I belonged and that I could achieve great things. My family played a crucial role in this journey, helping me with pronunciation exercises and supporting me through countless hours of reading and writing at home. Education has always been a cornerstone of my life, but my path has not been easy. As the first in my family to attend college, I am acutely aware of the financial burdens that come with higher education. To support my studies, I have been working in financial aid at Arizona Western College, saving every penny to fund my transfer towards a four-year university. Beyond my academic pursuits, I have been deeply involved in my community, particularly in working with middle school students from low-income neighborhoods. I have dedicated time to teaching these students how to play chess and tutoring them in STEM subjects. This experience has allowed me to see the profound impact that mentorship and education can have on young lives. It is this spirit of compassion and generosity that I strive to embody in all that I do, just as Erich and Frieda Schmid did in their lives. This scholarship would be instrumental in helping me achieve my educational dreams. It would alleviate the financial pressures that come with transferring to a four-year university, allowing me to focus on my studies and continue my work in the community. With this support, I would be able to dedicate more time to developing innovative solutions that leverage technology to address the challenges faced by underserved communities. In honoring the legacy of Erich and Frieda Schmid, I am committed to using my education to make the world a better place, just as they did. Their values of compassion, generosity, and service to others are the guiding principles that drive my academic and career aspirations. With this scholarship, I will be able to pursue my dream of becoming a software engineer and use my skills to give back to the community that has shaped me into the person I am today.

My name is Vladimir Gurrola Paredes, and I come from the humble town of San Luis, Arizona, a small community on the border between the United States and Mexico. As both a first-generation American and the first in my family to pursue higher education, I have faced numerous challenges that have shaped my journey. These experiences have not only defined who I am but also fueled my passion for education and my desire to make a meaningful impact in my community. Growing up in a low-income, Hispanic-dominant community, I was aware from a young age that I would have to overcome significant obstacles to achieve my goals. One of the earliest and most daunting challenges was the language barrier I encountered when I began kindergarten in Yuma, Arizona. At just five years old, I was suddenly immersed in an English-speaking environment, a language I did not yet understand. This struggle was further compounded by the difficulty of being accepted as a first-generation American. Comments from peers and even some staff members that I "didn’t belong" were common, and these hurtful remarks often made me question my place in this country. The experience of being singled out and made to feel like an outsider was incredibly challenging, particularly as a young kid. However, rather than allowing these experiences to discourage me, they fueled my determination to succeed. I became determined to prove to myself and others that I did belong and that I could overcome the barriers in front of me. I spent countless hours teaching myself English, reading children's books, and practicing writing exercises at home. My family, though not fluent in English, supported me every step of the way, helping with pronunciation and encouraging me to persevere. Their belief in me was a driving force that helped me overcome these challenges and eventually reach a level where I could thrive academically. My interest in STEM subjects began at a young age, despite the fact that my community offered very few opportunities for formal education in these areas. Throughout middle and high school, I was drawn to subjects like mathematics and science, often spending time at the library learning about topics that fascinated me such as space, technology, and engineering. Mathematics, in particular, became a refuge for me. It was a subject where the numbers spoke for themselves, and language barriers did not impede my understanding or ability to succeed. This natural affinity for math further solidified my interest in pursuing a career in a STEM field. As I progressed through high school, my passion for STEM only grew stronger, but I also became acutely aware of the educational disparities in my community. The lack of resources and opportunities for students in low-income neighborhoods was a significant barrier to success, and I knew from personal experience how difficult it could be to overcome these challenges without the proper support. This realization led me to become actively involved in helping other students who were facing similar obstacles. One of the most rewarding experiences during my high school years was my involvement with middle school students from low-income neighborhoods. I dedicated time to teaching these students how to play chess, using the game as a tool to enhance their critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Chess, much like mathematics, is a universal language that requires strategic thinking and foresight. Through these sessions, I was able to connect with the students on a deeper level, helping them develop skills that would serve them well in their academic and personal lives. In addition to teaching chess, I also tutored these students in STEM subjects, helping them build a strong foundation in math and science. These tutoring sessions were not just about imparting knowledge; they were about inspiring these young minds to believe in their potential and pursue their own dreams. Seeing the students’ progress and the spark of curiosity in their eyes was incredibly fulfilling and reaffirmed my commitment to making a difference in my community. Despite my passion for education and my determination to pursue a career in STEM, financial constraints posed a significant hurdle as I approached graduation. I knew that attending a four-year university was essential for achieving my goals, but the cost of higher education was daunting. I applied for seemingly countless scholarships, hoping to ease the financial burden, but after only receiving rejections, I realized that my best option was to attend community college. I enrolled at Arizona Western College, where I am currently pursuing an Associate's degree in Computer Science, Physics, and Engineering. My ultimate goal is to transfer to the University of Arizona to earn a Bachelor's degree in Software Engineering. While attending community college, I have continued to be involved in my community, working as a Financial Aid Federal Work-study in Yuma, Arizona. In this role, I help first-time applicants secure the funding necessary to further their education, a task that is particularly meaningful to me given my own experiences with financial challenges. Looking ahead, my ambition is to use my education to create sustainable after-school STEM programs in low-income communities like mine. I believe that by providing young students with access to quality STEM education, we can empower them to break the cycle of poverty and achieve their full potential. These programs would not only teach technical skills but also foster a sense of confidence and resilience in students, showing them that they have the power to shape their futures. I am also committed to using technology and digital marketing to expand the reach of these programs. The proper use of digital marketing is crucial in today's world, where most young people receive their information via online platforms. My experience in videography and digital content creation has given me the tools to reach a broader audience, and I plan to continue utilizing these skills to engage students and bring STEM education to communities that need it most. In honor of Grandmaster Nam K. Hyong’s legacy, I am determined to use education as a tool to elevate not only my life but also the lives of others. I understand the transformative power of education, having experienced it firsthand, and I am dedicated to making it accessible to those who need it most. With this scholarship, I aim to further my education and continue working toward a future where every child, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to succeed. In conclusion, my journey has been shaped by perseverance, self-reliance, and a deep appreciation for the support I have received along the way. I am committed to driving positive change in my community through education, and I believe that with the right resources and opportunities, anything is possible. By continuing my studies and honing my skills in software engineering, I hope to create a lasting impact that honors the legacy of Grandmaster Nam K. Hyong and empowers future generations to pursue their dreams.

My name is Vladimir Gurrola Paredes, and I am currently pursuing an Associate's degree in Computer Science, Physics, and Engineering at Arizona Western College. I have plans to transfer to the University of Arizona to earn a Bachelor's degree in Software Engineering. My academic journey is driven by a profound passion for technology and its capacity to foster positive societal change. This passion aligns closely with Brandon Repola’s legacy, particularly in the realms of digital marketing, computers, and technology. Having grown up in a low-income, Hispanic-dominant community, I have witnessed firsthand the obstacles that many young students face due to a lack of resources and educational opportunities. The absence of after-school programs and the scarcity of STEM education in these communities have fueled my determination to make a difference. I believe that technology when leveraged effectively, can bridge these gaps and empower underserved populations. My interest in digital marketing and technology extends beyond theoretical knowledge; I have applied these skills in real-world settings. For instance, I have taught middle school students from low-income neighborhoods how to play chess, using the game as a means to enhance their critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. I also tutor these students in STEM subjects, fostering their interest and competence in Math and Science. These experiences have provided me with valuable insights into how the new generation of students learns, especially in the context of online education. Digital marketing plays a pivotal role in reaching today’s youth, who primarily consume information through online platforms. I have practical experience in videography and digital content creation, which I have utilized to engage students in learning. My goal is to expand these efforts on a larger scale, creating content that not only educates but also inspires students from low-income communities to pursue STEM careers. As I continue my education in software engineering, I am committed to developing innovative solutions that address the challenges faced by low-income and underserved communities. I envision creating sustainable STEM education programs that leverage digital marketing to reach and engage students in these communities. By providing them with the tools and resources needed to overcome economic challenges, I aim to empower them to achieve their full potential. Brandon Repola’s vision of changing the world through his work in digital marketing and technology resonates deeply with me. I am committed to carrying forward his legacy by using my talents and knowledge to inspire and uplift others. Through determination, creativity, and the right resources, I believe that we can make a lasting impact on the lives of those who need it most. This scholarship would not only support my educational journey but also enable me to contribute meaningfully to the communities that Brandon sought to inspire.

I love asking that very question, "What could go wrong? not just as a deterrent but as a way to embrace the possibilities, both positive and negative. While it’s natural to search for what could go wrong and use it as a reason to avoid risks, I believe it's equally important to acknowledge that avoiding risks can lead to regret later in life. Four years ago, I was nursing my grandpa back to health after a series of complications from preexisting conditions. I’ve always enjoyed helping people, and during that time, I grew very close to both my grandpa and grandma. I cherished the stories they shared, how they met, what my great-grandparents were like, and so much more. These stories connected me to my family’s past in a way I had never experienced before. However, one day while I was away, my grandpa had a heart attack. He was found in the shower, and by the time he was taken to the hospital, his brain had been deprived of oxygen for too long. I remember hearing the news and frantically trying to recall the last words I had said to him. They were “Te miro mañana,” which means “I’ll see you tomorrow” in Spanish. I kept replaying scenarios in my head, wondering what I could have done differently to save him or at least be there to call the paramedics. It took a tremendous amount of time and reflection to realize that there was no way for me to know what was going to happen. In large part due to the passing of my grandpa, I’ve since made it a point to say “I love you” whenever I say goodbye to a loved one. This might be common in many households, but in my family, showing affection is rare and out of the ordinary. Now, I frequently remind myself, “What’s the worst that could happen?” whenever I make a decision. This mindset has carried over into other aspects of my life. When applying to jobs, internships, and scholarships, I remind myself that the worst outcome is usually a simple rejection. I have failed many times at many things. I’ve felt discouraged and unmotivated at times, but I persist because I would rather fail and know the outcome than live with the regret of wondering “What if?” My grandpa always told me to put my education and family above everything else. I’ve stayed true to that advice throughout my college education, working a part-time job and finding ways to pay off my tuition. Since I don’t qualify for financial aid, I’ve had to cover the costs myself because my family isn’t in a position to help financially. However, I’m forever grateful for their support in other ways, whether it’s giving me a place to stay, cooking meals, or simply listening to me after a rough day. I know that on both my good days and bad days, my grandpa is looking out for me somewhere. I will always be thankful for everything he taught and instilled in me up until his passing. Since losing my grandpa, I’ve made it a point to push myself out of my comfort zone. I try to do things that might seem scary or embarrassing to others because I’ve realized that life is too short not to take risks. So, why not just go for it? Many of the friends I currently have today, I would never have met them had I not gone outside of my comfort zone. I wouldn’t have my current job if I hadn’t asked a complete stranger for a recommendation. I plan to attend university within the next year, and I refuse to let the financial burden of attending school discourage me from pursuing my dreams. That’s why I work hard at my job and apply to as many scholarships as possible in the hopes of making school more affordable. In the end, “What could go wrong?” is a question that has guided me through life’s challenges. It’s a question that acknowledges the potential for failure but also embraces the possibility of growth and success. I’ve learned that while things can and do go wrong, it’s often the risks we take that lead to our most meaningful experiences. As I continue on my educational journey, I carry my grandpa’s memory with me, reminding myself to never give up and to keep working toward my dreams, no matter what might go wrong.

January 10th, 2005, that's the date I was born, but I wasn't like very other child out there. I was born with a congenital heart defect along with asthma which made it very difficult for me because I have loved to be active from a young age. Most of my child I was managing, I would get winded constantly and have lots of trouble running for long distances. I was fine up until third grade, because in third grade I began getting heart murmurs more frequently when running, so I told my mother and next thing I knew I was getting tests. There was a device which hooked onto the waist of my pants and had wires with sensors going up onto my heart so that It could detect the murmurs whenever I pressed a certain button. After that was done the doctors told me I had a heart arrhythmia and my mom being the amazing mother she is, decided that instead of rushing into surgery for a pacemaker, I would take medication and a new diet. Along with that meant taking stricter restrictions on what I could do, such as baseball, I had to stop playing baseball for an extended period of time. Around a month or two later, I noticed the lack of murmurs and at my next checkup, the doctors said I didn't need any surgery for the time being. After all that I learned to value every little thing that much more. It did help especially being so young, I appreciated every opportunity to learn, run, and even breathe. As I grew up I was working hard in anything and everything. For example, in swim most kids got tired after 3 laps around an Olympic-sized pool, I got tired in about half that. That was pretty much the case in everything stamina-based, so I knew I had to practice more than everyone and within a couple of months, I saw myself not only keeping up but outlasting most people. The combination of a congenital heart defect and asthma brought a heavy toll on me. Still, I know that thousands of kids every year are born with a congenital heart defect such as mine and I'd like them to know that anything and everything is possible with the right amount of hard work. Every day I spend breathing enjoying life for what it is, is a living testament to the fact.

As an 18-year-old Mexican college student hailing from a low-income family in an economically challenged town, my pursuit of higher education has been a challenging yet transformative journey in many ways. Growing up in a low-income family, I have experienced firsthand the financial struggles that come with pursuing higher education. From the cost of textbooks to tuition fees, every expense becomes a significant burden. In my hometown, access to quality educational resources is scarce. Our schools lack up-to-date materials, and the availability of extracurricular activities and educational programs is minimal at best. As a member of a low-income family, there is an expectation that I contribute to our household income. Balancing work, family responsibilities, and academics has been a constant struggle. In the face of these obstacles, I firmly believe that education is the key to breaking the cycle of poverty and creating a brighter future. I am determined to use my education as a catalyst for change in my community. My journey in higher education has given me the knowledge, skills, and confidence to overcome adversity. It has empowered me to dream beyond my circumstances and work towards a better future. As I continue my education, I am committed to giving back to my community. I envision creating educational programs and initiatives that address the lack of resources and opportunities in my hometown. My bilingual proficiency equips me to bridge the language gap that often hinders educational and economic progress. I intend to use this skill to connect my community with a broader range of opportunities and resources. Sadly, I have had to witness people being discriminated against on both sides of the coin, either not getting a job because you don't know spanish or not getting the job because you don't know English. This rough reality led to me needing to be proficient in both English and Spanish. Currently, I'm working on learning Dutch out of pure curiosity, but in a town that has next to no diversity I have to resort to meeting with people who speak the language well online. In conclusion, my pursuit of higher education as an 18-year-old Mexican college student in a low-income family has been a journey marked by adversity and resilience. However, I firmly believe that education is the most potent tool for personal and communal transformation. I aspire to use my education to create opportunities, break barriers, and give back to my community.

The project was inspired by the idea of creating a digital platform that would connect library enthusiasts and encourage discussion and sharing of knowledge. It was all about fostering a sense of community among people who shared a common love for books, and I was excited to be a part of it. One of the key aspects that made this project truly special was the programming language we chose: Python. Python's simplicity and versatility made it a perfect fit for the project. My partner and I could've chosen any other language but I insisted on writing the code in Python due to the simplicity It allowed us to develop a user-friendly and efficient chatting space that was accessible to a wide range of users, even those who were not necessarily tech-savvy. What added an extra layer of enthusiasm to the project was the person who collaborated with me. This individual was not just a coding wizard but also a passionate book lover. His enthusiasm for both coding and literature was contagious. We would often find ourselves discussing the latest tech trends and literary works while working on the project. This fusion of interests created a stimulating work environment, where our shared passions fueled our creativity and productivity. We would discuss anything from the project specifics, errors within the code, or even sports. As we developed the chatting space, we aimed to make it more than just a platform for idle chit-chat. We wanted it to be a place where people could share book recommendations, discuss their favorite authors, and even hold virtual book club meetings. Seeing the positive impact our work had on the library community was truly inspiring. Considering people up until then couldn't attend such meetings due to difficulty finding transportation. People from all walks of life came together in this virtual space, sharing their love for books and learning. They formed connections, discovered new reading material, and expanded their horizons. For me, this was the most rewarding aspect of the project. I'd gotten to meet people I never would've met within my small town. Knowing that we had created something that brought people joy, helped them connect, and enriched their lives through technology was a deeply gratifying experience. In the end, this project not only brought together my passion for technology and coding but also highlighted the power of technology to build and strengthen communities. It reinforced my belief that technology when used thoughtfully and creatively, can have a positive and lasting impact on people's lives.

Small. When beginning anything you have to start small both physically and mentally. I'd love to witness a large-scale transition toward nuclear energy, more specifically nuclear fusion. Currently, nuclear power plants rely mainly on Nuclear fission to create energy, but comparing Fission and Fusion, Fusion is superior in every way. Nuclear fusion is vastly more efficient, generating next to no waste, and it runs off of hydrogen atoms which aren't very scarce. Nuclear fusion has the potential to revolutionize the way we utilize nuclear energy in our day-to-day lives. While this technology is still in the experimental and developmental stages Fusion reactors do not produce materials that could be readily weaponized, as is the case with some nuclear fission byproducts, meaning that a shift toward fusion could potentially reduce the risk of nuclear war. Nuclear fusion has the potential to provide a nearly limitless, clean, and sustainable source of energy. Unlike current nuclear fission power plants, fusion doesn't produce long-lived radioactive waste or carry the risk of nuclear meltdowns. A successful fusion revolution could significantly reduce our reliance on fossil fuels, drastically cutting greenhouse gas emissions and combatting climate change which many countries are currently striving towards today. Unlike fossil fuels, it doesn't produce any harmful greenhouse gases or air pollutants, addressing the rising global concerns about climate change and air quality. This makes fusion a desirable choice for regions where environmental considerations are a priority, helping ensure a healthier and more sustainable living environment. Nuclear fusion has the potential to make energy more accessible to regions all around the world, including those with limited energy infrastructure. The ability to generate vast amounts of power from a small amount of fuel means that remote and underdeveloped areas could benefit from clean energy, improving living conditions and spurring economic development. This would improve the living conditions of millions of people worldwide. Fusion reactions release an immense amount of energy from a relatively small amount of fuel. For instance, a gram of deuterium-tritium fuel can produce as much energy as several tons of coal. The energy is dense allowing for compact fusion reactors that could be deployed in diverse settings, including remote or off-grid locations. As a result, fusion energy can be harnessed in regions where building extensive energy infrastructure is economically or logistically challenging. To wrap it up, nuclear fusion looks extremely promising for making energy more readily accessible t all around the world. It has lots of fuel, gives out a lot of energy for a tiny bit of fuel, doesn't hurt the environment much, and can be used in different ways to give power to places that might not have had it before. such a revolution could change how we power a car or even a lightbulb within a house. Thinking small leads to big things, people might've written off nuclear power as an inefficient and expensive power supply when in reality that's not the case. In the end, all I want to work towards is changing someone's life for the better.