“Don’t worry, we’ll be back soon. You’ll be fine, I promise. I love you.” 6 years have passed and neither my mom nor brother have been able to come back, yet I remain hopeful. Since then, those three, simple sentences have grown to be my driving force, my motivation. 

 

Ever since I can remember, my main goals have been to be the best I could possibly be and help my family and community. All while pursuing my passion for the natural sciences. From researching the effects of green space on Santa Ana’s obesity rates and spreading awareness throughout our community and local schools to researching the cure for Poliomyelitis, I have been able to combine both of my aspirations to slowly make a difference. I am also ardently devoted to my school’s community service club, Helping Hands, and Model United Nations; both of which have given me firsthand experience in working with and helping the underprivileged. 

 

I intend on applying to local, state universities such as UC Santa Barbara, UC Irvine, UC Berkeley, and Stanford, all which offer a rigorous scientific curriculum and a hands-on research experience. Nonetheless, I still plan on keeping my options open to schools located across the nation, one of them being Cornell University. Ultimately, regardless of the school I attend, I am positive that the countless years of hard work will pay off and I will be able to truly fulfill my destiny. And I can be sure that my mom and brother will be proud of the person I become.