Living with Neurofibromatosis (NF) has been a complex journey, marked by both challenges and moments of profound gratitude. Despite the genetic predisposition to tumor growth along nerves that comes with NF, I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have avoided the development of tumors. Instead, I've been left with a surplus of birth spots, which serve as constant reminders of the genetic intricacies underlying my condition. This contrast between the potential severity of NF and the relative stability of my health fills me with immense gratitude and underscores the unpredictable nature of living with this condition. However, alongside this sense of gratitude lies the reality of navigating the debilitating effects of extreme migraines. These migraines, characterized by intense pain and sensory disturbances, have become a familiar and unwelcome presence in my life. They often disrupt my studies and pose significant challenges to my ability to pursue higher education. Yet, despite their debilitating nature, I've made a conscious decision not to let them define me or hinder my academic aspirations. My motivation to pursue higher education amidst the challenges posed by NF and migraines is deeply rooted in my desire to defy the odds and realize my full potential. Education has always been my beacon of hope, offering a path toward personal growth and professional fulfillment despite the obstacles I face. Moreover, my experiences with NF and migraines have instilled within me a profound determination to overcome adversity and make a meaningful impact in the world. In addition to my resilience, I believe I am a strong candidate for this scholarship due to my unwavering commitment to academic excellence and community service. Despite the challenges posed by NF and migraines, I have maintained a stellar academic record, excelling in coursework and demonstrating a genuine passion for learning. Furthermore, my involvement in extracurricular activities, such as volunteering with organizations supporting individuals with disabilities, showcases my dedication to serving others and making a positive impact in my community. In conclusion, my journey with NF and extreme migraines has been marked by both challenges and blessings. While I am immensely grateful for the absence of tumors and the relative stability of my health, I have also faced the debilitating effects of migraines that have tested my resilience and determination. Despite these challenges, I remain steadfast in my commitment to higher education and to making a positive impact in the world. With the support of this scholarship, I am confident that I will continue to defy expectations and emerge as a leader in my field, contributing to a brighter and more inclusive future for all.

As a high school freshman, I experienced the profound loss of my grandfather. It was a typical morning on my way to school when my grandmother's call shattered my world with the news. The weight of his absence hit me like a tidal wave, leaving my head spinning and my emotions tangled. This loss came at a time already fraught with the uncertainties and anxieties of the COVID era, amplifying my grief. My grandfather was an extraordinary man whose presence colored my fondest memories. I recall summers in Florida, where he patiently taught me the art of fishing and grilling the day's catch. He delighted in simple pleasures like watching fireworks with me, and his playful teasing, like likening my growing feet to those of an elephant, remains etched in my mind. Yet, beyond the laughter, he imparted invaluable lessons on integrity and kindness, guiding me on the path to manhood with advice on chivalry and car mechanics. Attending his funeral in New York brought the harsh reality of his passing crashing down upon me. Struggling to express my grief, I found myself trapped in a silent sorrow, unable to shed tears. In the aftermath, my academic performance suffered, and I found myself descending into a dark place I couldn't escape. But amidst the despair, I recognized a resolve stirring within me. Reflecting on my grandfather's legacy, I resolved to honor him by rising above my grief. As sophomore year dawned, I embraced new challenges, including rigorous courses like Calculus. On the very first day, my teacher's skepticism about my capabilities stung, questioning whether I could handle the workload given my previous academic struggles. With unwavering determination, I assured her of my readiness, attributing my past setbacks to the profound loss I had endured. Her dismissal of my struggles fueled my determination to succeed, igniting a fire within me to prove her wrong. Despite the doubts cast upon me, I poured myself into the class, surpassing expectations and reclaiming my academic prowess. In overcoming this hurdle, I not only honored my grandfather's memory but also reaffirmed my resilience in the face of adversity. I am now committed to being the best in everything I do. I refuse to let my struggles hinder my ability to succeed. I often think about my grandfather and I know that he would not want me to wallow in despair. Rather, he would want me to succeed in all my endeavors, no matter what obstacles I may face.

When I was only six years old, one of my fondest memories was playing "Super Mario Bros Wii" with my uncle during one summer. We used to wake up early, grab some cereal, and start playing. We spent countless hours trying to complete the game with a perfect score, laughing, cheering and getting frustrated along the way. I still remember the excitement and anticipation we felt as we worked our way through each level and the sense of accomplishment when we finally beat the game. After finishing "Super Mario Bros Wii," we played Wii Sports, where we became enemies instead of allies. We played this game hundreds of times, from bowling to the sword fight game, tennis, and even cycling, until we fell asleep. We would get so into the games that we would forget about the world around us, the only thing that mattered was the game and our competition. The best part was not just the games themselves but the time we spent together. We bonded over our love for gaming and shared many laughs and memories. My uncle was not just a player but a teacher, he would teach me the strategies and tricks to beat the game. He was patient with me, even if he didn't seem like it (when he'd get irritated I died as Mario) when I made mistakes, and encouraged me to keep trying until we finally achieved our goals. Looking back, those summer days spent with my uncle playing "Super Mario Bros Wii" are some of my most cherished memories. They taught me the importance of bonding and creating memories with loved ones, and to always keep trying even when things get tough. I will always remember the feeling of accomplishment we had when we finally beat the game, and how much fun we had along the way.

I am deeply committed to living a sustainable lifestyle, which means that every decision I make is made with the intention of positively influencing the environment around me. From the moment I wake up in the morning, I am mindful of the impact of my choices. I begin my day with a simple routine that sets the tone for my environmental consciousness. I stretch my limbs, take a deep breath of fresh air, and boil water for tea in my trusty kettle. This small act of using a kettle instead of the stove saves energy and reduces my carbon footprint. When I leave my home, I always bring a backpack with reusable items such as a water bottle, metal straw, and cloth napkin. I prefer to walk or bike, taking in the fresh air and the beauty of my surroundings. I find that this not only benefits the environment, but also my own health and well-being. I bring my lunch in a reusable container and take the stairs instead of the elevator, which helps me to stay active and reduce energy consumption. When I return home, I tend to my garden, which is filled with native plants, herbs, and vegetables. I compost my food scraps, enriching the soil and reducing waste. I take pride in the fact that I am able to produce some of my own food, and that I am doing my part to help protect the planet. I reflect on my choices and their impact, striving to learn and grow from my mistakes. I also, instead of always using a garden hose, try to take advantage of rainwater reuse to to keep my plants saturated with water. My commitment to sustainability stems from a variety of personal reasons. I want to protect nature for future generations, espcially my future children. I want to know that I did my best to leave them a plant that they can live on and be proud of. I also feel like I fulfill an ethical obligation to our planet by taking care of it just like it has taken care of us all these millions of years, embracing a minimalist lifestyle also makes me feel good in the heart. But above all, I am driven by a shared dream of a healthier planet and a brighter future for all of us, making sure that the whole world will be able to live on this planet as long as we can.