As a first-generation immigrant and college student, I struggled with mental health for a long time after I came to the US. The transition was overwhelming, compounded by financial insecurity, a pervasive feeling of not being at home, and the constant battle with peer pressure and imposter syndrome. These challenges profoundly shaped my goals, relationships, and understanding of the world. Financial insecurity was one of the most significant stressors. My mother and I arrived with little more than our dreams and determination. Watching my mother work tirelessly to make ends meet instilled a deep sense of responsibility in me. The pressure to excel academically and secure a stable future was immense. This constant worry about finances often overshadowed my studies, making it difficult to focus and causing bouts of anxiety and depression. However, it also fueled my ambition and shaped my goal of achieving financial independence, so I could provide for my family and alleviate my mother’s burden. The feeling of not being at home was another persistent issue. The cultural and social differences between my new environment and my homeland were stark. I often felt like an outsider, struggling to fit in and find my place. This sense of isolation was exacerbated by language barriers and the lack of familiar social support networks. However, over time, this experience fostered resilience and adaptability in me. It taught me the value of empathy and the importance of creating inclusive spaces where everyone feels welcome. In school, I frequently felt inferior to my peers. Many of them had wealth, resources, and support systems that I lacked. The disparity in opportunities often made me feel inadequate. I struggled with imposter syndrome, constantly questioning whether I belonged in academic settings and if I deserved the successes I achieved. These feelings were debilitating at times, leading to self-doubt and decreased motivation. Yet, they also pushed me to work harder and seek help when needed. I learned that vulnerability and asking for assistance are not signs of weakness but rather steps toward growth and self-improvement. My mental health journey significantly influenced my relationship with my mother. Even though she worked tirelessly as a single mother to support us, at first, I did not fully appreciate her hard work and often questioned her decision to immigrate to the US. I would often say things like “I would rather not have been born” to my mother, maybe out of genuine pain or just to provoke her. These comments provoked my mother many times, leading to countless fights and yelling. Yet, the insensitive person I once was did not seem to care. Then one day, my mother suddenly experienced memory loss and confusion and was eventually hospitalized. During her time at the hospital, she kept asking me questions such as, “Why are we not at home?”, “Why isn’t Dad here with us?”, “Why are we so broke?”, and “Are we able to pay for the ER bills?”. All of these questions hurt me like bullets. For the first time ever, I saw my mother cry. She was so fragile, vulnerable, and insecure, like the teenage girl she once was thirty years ago. For the first time ever, I realized that my mother was no superhero; she was just a human doing her best for me. That night, while holding her hands, in shock, disbelief, and regret, I had the biggest meltdown of my life. Fortunately, after running a few tests, the doctors informed us that everything seemed fine with her physical condition and that her symptoms were likely caused by the side effects of her new blood sugar medication. It was a huge relief for me. Even though everything was back to normal shortly after, I decided to change my mindset about life and the world around me entirely. I vowed to be positive and proud of my identity as a first-generation immigrant, no matter what happens in life. More importantly, I decided to cherish the time I still have with my family, trying to always live in the moment and capture every cherishable memory so that I will never have regrets. Last but not least, I truly understood the struggles my mother faced as a single parent and learned to appreciate her hard work. Because of that, I will seize every opportunity I can and work as hard as possible to build a better life for my mother and myself. Career-wise, I want to earn a Bachelor’s degree and, hopefully, a PhD in Electrical Engineering and work as a hardware engineer in the future. When I retire from the industry, I hope to teach at a community college as a professor, helping and educating more first-generation immigrant and college students like myself. By building a better support system for low-income, disadvantaged students, I believe we can significantly improve their mental health.

As a first-generation immigrant and college student, I struggled with mental health for a long time after I came to the US. The transition was overwhelming, compounded by financial insecurity, a pervasive feeling of not being at home, and the constant battle with peer pressure and imposter syndrome. These challenges profoundly shaped my goals, relationships, and understanding of the world. Financial insecurity was one of the most significant stressors. My mother and I arrived with little more than our dreams and determination. Watching my mother work tirelessly to make ends meet instilled a deep sense of responsibility in me. The pressure to excel academically and secure a stable future was immense. This constant worry about finances often overshadowed my studies, making it difficult to focus and causing bouts of anxiety and depression. However, it also fueled my ambition and shaped my goal of achieving financial independence, so I could provide for my family and alleviate my mother’s burden. The feeling of not being at home was another persistent issue. The cultural and social differences between my new environment and my homeland were stark. I often felt like an outsider, struggling to fit in and find my place. This sense of isolation was exacerbated by language barriers and the lack of familiar social support networks. However, over time, this experience fostered resilience and adaptability in me. It taught me the value of empathy and the importance of creating inclusive spaces where everyone feels welcome. In school, I frequently felt inferior to my peers. Many of them had wealth, resources, and support systems that I lacked. The disparity in opportunities often made me feel inadequate. I struggled with imposter syndrome, constantly questioning whether I belonged in academic settings and if I deserved the successes I achieved. These feelings were debilitating at times, leading to self-doubt and decreased motivation. Yet, they also pushed me to work harder and seek help when needed. I learned that vulnerability and asking for assistance are not signs of weakness but rather steps toward growth and self-improvement. My mental health journey significantly influenced my relationship with my mother. Even though she worked tirelessly as a single mother to support us, at first, I did not fully appreciate her hard work and often questioned her decision to immigrate to the US. I would often say things like “I would rather not have been born” to my mother, maybe out of genuine pain or just to provoke her. These comments provoked my mother many times, leading to countless fights and yelling. Yet, the insensitive person I once was did not seem to care. Then one day, my mother suddenly experienced memory loss and confusion and was eventually hospitalized. During her time at the hospital, she kept asking me questions such as, “Why are we not at home?”, “Why isn’t Dad here with us?”, “Why are we so broke?”, and “Are we able to pay for the ER bills?”. All of these questions hurt me like bullets. For the first time ever, I saw my mother cry. She was so fragile, vulnerable, and insecure, like the teenage girl she once was thirty years ago. For the first time ever, I realized that my mother was no superhero; she was just a human doing her best for me. That night, while holding her hands, in shock, disbelief, and regret, I had the biggest meltdown of my life. Fortunately, after running a few tests, the doctors informed us that everything seemed fine with her physical condition and that her symptoms were likely caused by the side effects of her new blood sugar medication. It was a huge relief for me. Even though everything was back to normal shortly after, I decided to change my mindset about life and the world around me entirely. I vowed to be positive and proud of my identity as a first-generation immigrant, no matter what happens in life. More importantly, I decided to cherish the time I still have with my family, trying to always live in the moment and capture every cherishable memory so that I will never have regrets. Last but not least, I truly understood the struggles my mother faced as a single parent and learned to appreciate her hard work. Because of that, I will seize every opportunity I can and work as hard as possible to build a better life for my mother and myself. Career-wise, I want to earn a Bachelor’s degree and, hopefully, a PhD in Electrical Engineering and work as a hardware engineer in the future. When I retire from the industry, I hope to teach at a community college as a professor, helping and educating more first-generation immigrant and college students like myself. By building a better support system for low-income, disadvantaged students, I believe we can significantly improve their mental health.

The quest to understand the nature of our universe is one of the most profound and significant endeavors in human history. It extends beyond mere curiosity; it encompasses the advancement of science and technology, the resolution of existential questions, and the potential for groundbreaking discoveries that could fundamentally alter our way of life. The importance of this pursuit cannot be overstated, as it touches upon every aspect of our existence and future. In this essay, I will explore why it is crucial to better understand the universe and discuss the ideas and concepts that can help achieve this goal. One of the primary reasons to strive for a deeper understanding of the universe is the potential for scientific and technological advancements. Historically, many significant technological innovations have their roots in fundamental scientific research. For instance, the study of electromagnetism in the 19th century eventually led to the development of modern electronics, which are indispensable in today’s world. Similarly, our exploration of quantum mechanics and relativity has not only expanded our knowledge of the cosmos but also led to practical technologies like GPS, which relies on Einstein’s theory of general relativity to provide accurate positioning information. Furthermore, advances in medical imaging technologies, such as MRI machines, are direct results of research into nuclear magnetic resonance. These examples illustrate how understanding the universe can lead to technological breakthroughs that enhance our quality of life. In addition to technological advancements, understanding the universe can help us address some of the most pressing global challenges. For example, studying climate patterns on other planets and understanding the dynamics of their atmospheres can provide insights into Earth’s climate system, aiding in the fight against climate change. Furthermore, the search for sustainable energy sources can be informed by research into stellar processes and nuclear fusion, potentially leading to cleaner and more efficient energy solutions. Beyond the practical benefits, exploring the universe also fulfills a deep-seated human need to understand our place in the cosmos. It provides a context for our existence and prompts us to ask fundamental questions about the nature of reality, the origin of life, and the possibility of other intelligent beings. These inquiries are not only intellectually stimulating but also enrich our cultural and philosophical outlook, fostering a sense of wonder and connection to the broader universe. Engaging in the study of the universe also has the power to inspire future generations. The awe-inspiring images from space telescopes, the stories of groundbreaking discoveries, and the pursuit of knowledge in the face of the unknown captivate the imagination of young people, encouraging them to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). This inspiration is crucial for cultivating the next generation of innovators and problem-solvers who will continue to push the boundaries of human knowledge. To achieve a deeper understanding of the universe, several key ideas and concepts can be employed. These include advancements in observational technology, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the development of theoretical frameworks. The development of sophisticated observational tools is paramount in exploring the universe. Telescopes, both ground-based and space-based, are essential for gathering data about distant celestial objects. The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), for example, promises to revolutionize our understanding of the cosmos with its ability to observe the universe in unprecedented detail across a range of wavelengths. Additionally, advancements in radio astronomy, such as the Square Kilometre Array (SKA), will allow us to explore the universe’s early stages and study phenomena like black holes and cosmic microwave background radiation. These technological advancements will provide a wealth of data, enabling scientists to test existing theories and develop new models. Understanding the universe requires a collaborative effort across multiple scientific disciplines. Astronomy, physics, chemistry, and biology all play crucial roles in this endeavor. For instance, the field of astrobiology, which explores the potential for life beyond Earth, combines elements of biology, chemistry, and planetary science. Collaborative research efforts, such as those seen in international space missions and large-scale scientific projects, harness the expertise and resources of diverse scientific communities to tackle complex questions. Theoretical frameworks are essential for interpreting observational data and making sense of the universe’s underlying principles. Concepts such as general relativity and quantum mechanics have provided profound insights into the nature of space, time, and matter. However, many questions remain unresolved, such as the nature of dark matter and dark energy, which constitute the majority of the universe’s mass-energy content. To address these mysteries, physicists are working on developing a unified theory that reconciles general relativity with quantum mechanics, often referred to as the theory of quantum gravity. This theoretical framework could provide answers to fundamental questions about the nature of black holes, the origins of the universe, and the behavior of particles at the smallest scales. The pursuit of understanding the universe is a multifaceted endeavor with far-reaching implications. It drives scientific and technological progress, addresses global challenges, satisfies our existential curiosity, and inspires future generations. By advancing observational technology, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and developing robust theoretical frameworks, we can continue to unravel the mysteries of the cosmos. This journey of discovery not only enhances our knowledge but also enriches our culture and shapes our future, making it a vital pursuit for humanity.

Currently, I am dedicated to giving back to my community through several meaningful initiatives. One of the primary ways I contribute is through my role as a trash pick-up leader for the Walnut High School Chinese American Parent Association. In this capacity, I organize and lead regular clean-up events aimed at maintaining the cleanliness and beauty of our local neighborhoods and school grounds. This role not only involves coordinating volunteers and logistics but also educating participants about the importance of environmental stewardship. Seeing the tangible results of our efforts and the positive impact on our community instills a sense of pride and responsibility in me. It is gratifying to know that our collective efforts contribute to a cleaner, healthier environment for everyone. Additionally, I volunteer as an unpaid intern for GLO Preemies, an organization dedicated to supporting the families of premature infants. My responsibilities at GLO Preemies include assisting with administrative tasks, organizing fundraising events, and providing direct support to families navigating the challenges of premature birth. Through this role, I have developed a deeper understanding of the unique struggles faced by these families and the critical importance of community support. My experience with GLO Preemies has been incredibly rewarding, as I have witnessed firsthand the relief and hope our services bring to those in need. It has also taught me the value of empathy, compassion, and perseverance. In the future, I plan to extend my impact by pursuing a career in teaching. My goal is to become an educator who not only imparts knowledge but also inspires and empowers students to reach their full potential. Teaching offers a unique opportunity to shape young minds and contribute to the development of future generations. I believe that education is a powerful tool for positive change, and as a teacher, I hope to foster a love of learning and critical thinking in my students. I envision creating a classroom environment that is inclusive, supportive, and engaging. By implementing innovative teaching methods and leveraging technology, I aim to make learning both enjoyable and effective. Moreover, I plan to emphasize the importance of social responsibility and community involvement, encouraging students to actively participate in initiatives that benefit society. By instilling these values, I hope to inspire my students to become conscientious, active citizens who are committed to making a positive difference in the world. Beyond the classroom, I intend to continue my volunteer work and seek out additional opportunities to contribute to my community. Whether through organizing community service projects, mentoring young people, or advocating for important causes, I am committed to using my skills and experiences to give back.

As a first-generation immigrant and a first-generation college student, life has always been challenging for me in many aspects. When I arrived in the U.S. with my mother, carrying nothing but two suitcases, I had no idea how drastically my life would change. Most people start preparing for college in high school, but my circumstances were different. Adjusting to an entirely new environment as a first-generation immigrant and college student, I struggled to understand the college application process. It wasn't until my junior year of high school that I began to grasp what needed to be done. I vividly remember realizing that there were specific classes required to be eligible to apply to the University of California (UC) system. However, due to the lack of information and guidance, I almost missed taking those crucial classes. Despite these obstacles, I managed to navigate the application process for both the University of California (UC) and California State University (CSU) systems. Unfortunately, I didn't even get accepted into any of my safety schools. This failure was a significant disappointment to me, but it also marked another turning point in my life. Rather than giving up, I decided to start fresh at a community college, determined to explore the college process better and improve my chances of transferring to a university in two years The support I have received from my Community College as a first-gen college student is tremendous, to say the least. Having doubts about my decision to go to a Community College at first, I immediately changed my mind after seeing the support programs created just for economically disadvantaged, first-generation college students such as myself. By joining the Promise Plus Program, for example, I got priority registration, on-campus dining cards, book grants, and even access to dedicated counselors who were familiar with my personal situation. In addition, I have received a lot of financial assistance from the state and such programs to go to school essentially for free, which really eased the burden for my mother, who has had to work extra hours to support us as a single mother. During my time at Community College, I quickly discovered my passion for Engineering, especially Electrical Engineering. I have always been a hands-on person, so the thought of building something that runs on electricity and does a bunch of cool things based on my program fascinates me. Taking a class in Arduino programming deepened my interest in Electrical Engineering, as I really enjoyed reading data sheets, discovering new ideas, and building projects with my peers. Although initially unfamiliar with the field of Material Science, I have grown to become interested in it after discovering many applications of Material Science in the field of Electrical Engineering, such as in the design and manufacturing of semiconductors. After I transfer to UCLA as an Electrical Engineering major, I plan to take classes in Material Science Engineering and learn more about its applications and recent developments, some of which have deep connections to Dr. Andy Nieto. As a first-generation college student, I believe in the importance of higher education. With the help of the Dr. Andy Nieto Memorial First Generation Opportunity and Excellence Scholarship, I will be able to graduate with my Bachelor’s degree with less debt, have access to more networking and research opportunities, and hopefully achieve the same level of excellence that Dr. Andy Nieto did. After earning my Bachelor’s degree, I hope to go to graduate school and get a PhD in Electrical Engineering as well, as I hope to contribute to the development and advancement of technology. A field that I am currently interested in is the hybrid/electric drive train on modern vehicles. By conducting research on this field, I hope to greatly reduce the energy consumption of modern electrified vehicles, furthermore reducing our carbon footprint and protecting the environment. After I retire from research and industry, I plan to become a professor at a Community College, as inspired by many of my professors at my local Community College. I hope to give back to the community one day, educating and guiding more first-generation college students who might be lost in college like myself through the college process, just like my people did for me. I believe that if I win the Dr. Andy Nieto Memorial First Generation Opportunity and Excellence Scholarship, I will be closer to reaching my goals. Now, thinking back about the journey I took as a first-generation immigrant and college student, surprisingly, I feel more blessed than overwhelmed by the challenges I faced, as they have shaped my resilience, determination, and appreciation for every opportunity I have received along the way. I would be lying if I said that life as a first-generation immigrant and college student isn't difficult, but these challenges have shaped who I am today, and no one can take that part of my identity away from me.