To whom it may concern, My name is Zurich Rodriguez I am 28 years old. I am originally from Honduras and moved to the United States to pursue my dreams of studying for a postgraduate degree. I was accepted in the Environmental Science program at Rutgers University Newark facing any obstacles of being an undocumented student, English as a second language and with a foreign bachelor's degree in chemistry. I am starting my first semester this fall 2023. If I am honored to win this scholarship funds will be used to pay for my master's studies as I am charged as out of state my fees are the highest ones. Currently, I work for my aunt's jewelry company. It's very sacrificing to save enough money for my studies by myself. But this will not stop me. My will to study and research in this country made me leave behind my established life in my home country. I worked for four years for the National Autonomous University in Honduras as a laboratory teacher while I was studying for my undergraduate. My passion for the environment started when I finished my bachelor's degree and applied for a job in an environmental agency. Facing the industry's hazardous contamination and human life's lack of culture for the environment motivate me to search for tools that can help me as a professional at least in the community or resident reduce contamination. As a science lover, I wish to innovate and feel my life useful while I exist. I have all my capacities and knowledge still growing. And ready together with love and passion for the environment to help and make a change as a human. I want to be a recognized researcher and powerful environmental defender. But I cannot do this alone. United States is a country full of opportunities and I will not rest until reaching a door that can be open for me. Discover the technology this country offers and what I wished to have when I was in college in Honduras. I believe I have the strength and skills to show I am competent. My life has been hard but my family has supported me in everything I need with many sacrifices. I am standing up now and I am happy to look back and see all that has reached and that I can acquire all that I am proposing to.I am thankful and I don't have any regret in the decisions I have taken because they are the results of the woman I have created. With humility, I ask to be considered for this opportunity that will make me stand higher as a person and as a professional.