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Brooke Barfield

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Finalist

Bio

Hello! I'm Brooke Barfield, a recent Castro Valley High School graduate and a first-generation Hispanic student who aims to pursue higher education in the STEM field. Until now, I've been on a journey to learn about various sciences in order to narrow down the emphasis of my future job. Biology, chemistry, forensic science, and earth and space science have all been fascinating and have broadened my understanding of the many aspects of science. As a new chapter of my life begins, I look forward to majoring in forensic science and participating in various classes and internships to further enrich my knowledge in this field. The pandemic has caused significant limitations on my education, as I spent nearly three years of my high school education online. However, with the newfound freedom of attending a university, I hope to take advantage of all available opportunities. My ultimate goal is to use the expertise I'll gain from my degree to make a lasting impact in the forensic science field.

Education

California State University-East Bay

Bachelor's degree program
2023 - 2027
  • Majors:
    • Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Other
  • Minors:
    • Homeland Security, Law Enforcement, Firefighting and Related Protective Services, Other

Castro Valley High

High School
2020 - 2023
  • GPA:
    3.7

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Bachelor's degree program

  • Graduate schools of interest:

  • Transfer schools of interest:

  • Majors of interest:

    • Biological and Physical Sciences
    • Criminology
    • Film/Video and Photographic Arts
    • Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations
    • Foreign Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics, Other
    • Accounting and Computer Science
    • Science Technologies/Technicians, Other
    • Mechatronics, Robotics, and Automation Engineering
  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Research

    • Dream career goals:

      Forensic Science Expert

    • Spanish Translator

      General
      2019 – Present5 years
    • Graphic Design

      CVHS
      2022 – Present2 years
    • Babysitting

      Family
      2018 – Present6 years
    • Studying concepts of biological and physical science towards the practice of forensic science.

      CVHS
      2019 – Present5 years

    Sports

    Swimming

    Intramural
    2010 – 202111 years

    Dancing

    Intramural
    2017 – Present7 years

    Research

    • Chemistry

      Castro Valley High School — Studying the laws of Chemistry
      2021 – 2022
    • Biological and Physical Sciences

      Castro Valley High School — Studying the principles of biology, chemistry, earth space science, and forensic science.
      2019 – Present

    Arts

    • Castro Valley High School

      Performance Art
      2019 – 2020
    • Castro Valley High School

      Graphic Art
      2022 – Present
    • Castro Valley High School

      Photography
      2022 – Present
    • Canyon Middle school - Castro Valley high school choir

      Music
      2016 – 2020

    Public services

    • Volunteering

      Independent Elementary School — My role was assisting parents and children with the correct information about the event, handling money in exchange for tickets, and demonstrating activities to students.
      2019 – 2019

    Future Interests

    Advocacy

    Volunteering

    Philanthropy

    Entrepreneurship

    Corrick Family First-Gen Scholarship
    Let's take a moment to step back and reflect on what the world has become today. In the state of California alone, crime rates have significantly increased, and as a resident, I have witnessed and fallen victim to these acts firsthand. This indicates that the probability of crimes will not only grow but also continue to put individuals at risk. Now, imagine a world in which the power of science can be used to catch criminals in less than a week, delinquency is nonexistent, and safety and security are the new norms. That's the gift that I'm working tirelessly to achieve as I aspire to become a pioneer in the field of forensic science and the first in my family to obtain a degree. My strong passion for science has driven me to pursue a degree in this field, which will fulfill my passion and help bring closure to families affected by heinous acts. According to the Department of Justice website, homicide rates climbed by around 24% between 2017 and 2022. This alarming trend calls for immediate action, which I'm determined to contribute to by using my scientific knowledge and skills. Furthermore, I believe that my science degree will allow me to collaborate with law enforcement agencies to adopt preventive measures and create a safer environment for all. My ultimate goal is to use my education and experience to serve justice and make a difference in the field of law enforcement. As a Hispanic American woman, I've had to deal with several instances of colorism that society has imposed on me. For many, I'm too Hispanic to be American, while others think my complexion is too light to be Latina. My parents, on the other hand, have witnessed the worst of it, including abusive comments, unjust treatment, and attempts to humiliate them simply because of their accents. Though it's difficult to endure racism, my parents always advised me to keep my head up. Therefore, these experiences served me well; they not only motivated me to always stay resilient but also sparked a burning desire in me to prove others wrong. By being the first to acquire a degree in my family, I could finally achieve a sense of accomplishment and gratification for my hard-working parents. Unfortunately, my family's financial needs have increased this year due to my parents' reduced working hours. As a result, we are struggling to accumulate enough money for my college education. This financial burden has inspired me to actively seek scholarships, grants, and part-time jobs to alleviate the strain on my family's finances. This has not only taught me the value of hard work, and perseverance but also allowed me to develop important skills that will help me in my future career. Despite the challenges and uncertainties, I remain optimistic about my future and the possibilities that lie ahead. Overall, I want to use my degree to benefit not only the community but the entire world. I believe that applying what I'll learn at my university can have a positive impact on society and help to improve the criminal justice system as a whole. Whether through research, innovation, or volunteering, I'm dedicated to using my degree to make the world a better place for everyone. As technology advances, the purpose of forensic science will expand, and I encourage future generations to consider careers in this exciting and rewarding field. Forensic science is more than just a career path; it is a path that can truly impact the lives of others. I sincerely thank you for taking the time to read my application and for considering it.
    Operation 11 Tyler Schaeffer Memorial Scholarship
    Imagine a world where the power of science can be used to identify criminals within a week, resulting in quick and just outcomes for those involved. Consider a society in which delinquency is non-existent and safety and security are the new norms. That's the gift that I am working tirelessly to achieve as I aspire to become a pioneer in the field of forensic science. My strong passion for science has led me to pursue a degree in this field, which will provide me with the necessary skills and knowledge to help others. I intend to work hand in hand with law enforcement and medical organizations to solve crimes and bring closure to families affected by heinous acts. Furthermore, I hope to contribute to the advancement of new technologies that use math and science techniques to improve the accuracy and efficiency of forensic investigations. At the end of the day, I want to use my training and experience to serve justice and make a positive impact in the field of law enforcement. While I value my career goals, I also want to share my knowledge and expertise with others. This is why I would place importance on informing people about the crucial role that forensic science plays in resolving crimes and advancing public safety. Through various outreach programs and speaking engagements, I aim to raise awareness about the critical role of forensic science in the justice system and inspire future generations to pursue careers in this field. I'd do this in the hopes of starting a positive chain reaction within my community that would then flourish in the neighboring ones. Change is possible; all you need to do is take the first step. Unfortunately, my family's financial needs have increased this year due to my parents' reduced working hours. As a result, we are struggling to accumulate enough money for my college education. This financial burden has motivated me to actively seek scholarships, grants, and part-time jobs to alleviate the strain on my family's finances. However, I'm determined to overcome this obstacle and pursue my passion for forensic investigations, as I believe it is a field where I can truly make a difference and contribute to society.  In my pursuit of scholarships, I've spent countless hours researching and applying to various programs. I've also reached out to my school's guidance counselor for guidance and advice on available opportunities. Additionally, I have been proactive in seeking part-time employment to contribute towards my college fund. This has not only taught me the value of hard work and perseverance, but it's also allowed me to develop important skills that will help me in my future career. Despite the challenges and uncertainties, I remain optimistic about my future and the possibilities that lie ahead. Ultimately, I want to use my degree to benefit not only the community but the entire world. I believe that applying what I've learned in college can have a positive impact on society and help to improve the criminal justice system as a whole. Whether through research, innovation, or volunteering, I am dedicated to using my degree to make the world a better place for everyone. As technology advances, the purpose of forensic science will expand, and I encourage future generations to consider careers in this exciting and rewarding field. Forensic science is more than just a career path; it is a path that can truly impact the lives of others. Thank you for taking the time to read my application.
    CEW IV Foundation Scholarship Program
    There needs to be a change in how society responds to the problems of the disadvantaged. As someone who has seen the difficulties of poverty firsthand, I can tell you that it is not just a matter of how society acts on the issue; it is also about government spending. Government spending is critical in addressing the problems of the underprivileged. Society can provide the necessary support and opportunities for those in need by distributing more resources to social welfare programs, education, and healthcare. Furthermore, changing societal attitudes and cultivating empathy for the underprivileged can lead to a more inclusive and compassionate society in which everyone has equal opportunities to thrive. I see the government spending billions and trillions of dollars on things like military equipment, border security, and social security. However, if the same urgency and value were directed at those who are less fortunate, I believe there would be far fewer issues to address. Investing in social welfare programs, homelessness, and healthcare can improve the lives of the disadvantaged while also addressing the root causes of inequality. Governments can create a more equitable society in which individuals have access to essential resources and opportunities for upward mobility by prioritizing these areas. This shift in focus would not only address immediate issues, but also help promote long-term social and economic development. After putting a lot of thought into this issue, I hope to be able to give back to the less advanced after I achieve my goal of becoming a forensic scientist. I intended to work hand in hand with law enforcement and medical organizations to solve crimes and bring closure to families affected by heinous acts. I also hope to contribute to the development of new technologies using math and science techniques to improve the accuracy and efficiency of forensic investigations. In the end, I want to use my education and experience to advance justice and have a positive influence on both the world and the field of law enforcement. However, this year my family's financial needs have increased because my parent's working hours have significantly diminished. As a result, we are struggling to accumulate enough money for my college education. This financial burden has motivated me to actively seek scholarships, grants, and part-time jobs to alleviate the strain on my family's finances. I am determined to overcome this obstacle and pursue my passion for forensic investigations, as I believe it is a field where I can truly make a difference and contribute to society. Once I have enough stability, I would love to start a non-profit homeless program after achieving my career goal, and hope to build homes for the less fortunate. For many people, there isn't enough help because it has unfair processing or isn't local enough for those all over. Therefore, I would use the money and contacts I have gathered over the years to ensure a welcoming and efficient community for those less fortunate. I truly believe that everyone deserves a second chance in life, as well as the opportunity to thrive and have a safe place to call home. Obtaining scholarships and financial aid will allow me to take a step closer to achieving those goals and eventually giving back to those who need it the most. I am grateful for the opportunity to apply for this scholarship and promise to use it to its fullest potential. Thank you for taking the time to consider my application.
    La Santana Scholarship
    In life, I have many aspirations, but one stands out above all others: to buy my parents their first home. My family and I lived in an apartment for sixteen years, until we couldn't stand it any longer. During the last four years of living in that apartment, we, unfortunately, had some awful neighbors who enjoyed making our lives miserable. From banging on the walls to insulting us and not letting us sleep, they made our home feel like a hotel. We couldn't afford to move anywhere else on my father's salary alone, so my mother was forced to look for work. As a result, I was left with the responsibility of caring for my six-year-old sister at the time. For the next three years, I walked two miles every day to pick up my sister from school because my mother was unable to do so. I would often see other parents waiting for their children in their cars or at the school gate while I patiently waited for my sister to come out of her classroom. It was tiring and challenging, but I knew that I had to do it for the sake of our family's well-being. Even during quarantine, I made sure to leave my home early to reach her school on time and walk the long mile back home with her. To this day, I still occasionally have to travel two miles to pick her up and drop her off. With that said, I wanted to highlight the one-of-a-kind connection immigrant families have. We would sacrifice anything for one another, prioritizing our families while also standing up for what is just and sincerely supporting one another. There's something special about our families that I haven't noticed in others. I believe our traditions and culture contribute to the unconditional love we have for one another. Therefore, I think that, despite the challenging circumstances, I took pride in being there for my sister and ensuring her safety. Rain or shine, I never missed a day, determined to provide her with a sense of stability amidst the chaos at home. Overall, that experience served me well; it not only motivated me but also demonstrated that my family will always work together to succeed. In the end, my family was able to save money and rent a house, but not enough to buy one and call it our own. However, this year, our financial needs have increased because my parent's working hours have significantly diminished. As a result, we are struggling to accumulate enough money for my college education. Consequently, I am determined to pursue a degree in forensic science. Not only because it is my passion, but also because I can seek justice and start a positive chain reaction that will encourage others to pursue careers in STEM fields. By earning a degree in forensic science, I hope to secure a well-paying job that will relieve my family's financial burden while also allowing me to contribute to my education. Finally, I hope to launch a cutting-edge company that will develop new forensic procedures and technology to improve the accuracy and efficiency of investigations. As a first-generation Hispanic student, pursuing a degree in forensic science would provide me with the tools and knowledge I need to make a difference in the lives of others. I hope to use my diploma to work with police to solve crimes and bring closure to families who have been harmed by heinous acts. However, my ultimate goal, which will forever stay in my heart and mind, is to provide a stable home for my family.
    Career Search Scholarship
    In the vast realm of forensic science lies a world of endless possibilities waiting to be discovered. As I embark on the journey of exploring the opportunities that this captivating field offers, I find myself at the forefront of uncovering the truth, seeking justice, and making a profound impact on society. Forensic science is not merely a profession; it is a gateway to unraveling mysteries, piecing together fragments of evidence, and, most importantly, it's my passion. With each new case, I would have the chance to bring light to the darkest corners, give voice to the voiceless, and restore faith in the legal system. For that reason, I believe that pursuing a career in forensic science is not only a personal calling but also a responsibility toward society. Since childhood, I have been utterly captivated by the remarkable capabilities of forensic science in unraveling crimes and ensuring justice for victims. Over the years, my fascination has only intensified, evolving from late-night viewings of crime documentaries to diving into personal investigations to crack televised cases. In addition, during my last year in high school, I was fortunate enough to be accepted into the forensic science class of my choice. Within a week of attending that class, it had become my favorite because it provided me with the opportunity to learn the techniques used in the profession and firsthand experience of working in a lab with evidence. Furthermore, I've personally reached out to my local police department to get in touch with crime scene investigators. As a result, I was able to obtain professional advice as well as testimonials about what similar jobs have to offer. As a recent high school graduate, I have made the definitive decision to wholeheartedly pursue a career in law enforcement, venturing headfirst into this thrilling and purposeful path. I hope to use the knowledge I gained to improve the technology and equipment used by law enforcement agencies after completing my education. Whether it be creating a new form of crime analysis software or designing more efficient communication systems, I am determined to contribute to the advancement of forensic science practices. By combining my passion for technology with my dedication to solving crime, I believe I can make a meaningful impact on enhancing the effectiveness and efficiency of law enforcement operations. With the rapid advancements in technology, I dream of having the opportunity to revolutionize the way law enforcement agencies tackle crime and ensure the safety of communities. At present, I am applying for scholarships, realizing how important they will be in assisting me in achieving my educational goals. Additionally, I am considering part-time work and internships, which not only provide significant experiential learning but also help ease financial burdens. My unwavering desire to succeed in this industry propels me forward, requiring me to put in extraordinary effort and dedication to making my dream a reality. Ultimately, obtaining financial assistance would not only greatly alleviate the financial strain of attending a university, but also put me one step closer to my aspiration. Finally, forensic science is an immensely fulfilling field that offers numerous opportunities. For starters, it seeks truth through the lens of science, which enables one to feel a deep sense of purpose and contribution to society. Secondly, it entails intellectual challenges as a constantly evolving discipline. Pursuing forensic science can provide closure and comfort to grieving families, as well as compassion and support, opening the door to a life of great meaning and fulfillment. It's more than just a career path; it's a path that can truly make a difference in the lives of others.
    William Griggs Memorial Scholarship for Science and Math
    From a young age, my father told me to stay determined when it came to my education and to build myself up so that I would never have to depend on anyone else. As the years passed, those words became my life motto, resulting in a very strong work ethic and a passion for learning. I have always been fascinated by the world of math and science, and I plan to contribute to these fields by pursuing a career in the Forensic Science field. With my dedication, curiosity, and analytical skills, I hope to make significant contributions to the advancement of knowledge in these areas. However, as a Hispanic American woman, I've had to deal with several encounters with colorism, which society laid out for me. For many, I'm too Hispanic to be American; for others, my skin is too light to be Latina. My parents have seen the worst of it, from hateful comments to unfair treatment and people trying to humiliate them because of their accents. Though it's difficult to endure racism, my parents always told me to keep my head up. Therefore, I try to use those encounters to strengthen my knowledge of how to de-escalate the situation and understand how others portray people of my ethnicity. In addition, I enjoy problem-solving and discovering the truth, so it was evident that I would fall in love with the forensic science pathway. The experiences I’ve faced have not only prompted me to seek justice for others but also to pursue a career in the criminal justice system. Futhermore, I have a strong passion for forensic science,and pursuing a degree in this field will not only fulfill this passion but also provide me with the necessary skills and knowledge to help others. I plan to work with law enforcement agencies to solve crimes and bring closure to families affected by heinous acts. I also hope to contribute to the development of new technologies using math and science techniques to improve the accuracy and efficiency of forensic investigations. Ultimately, my goal is to utilize my education and expertise to serve justice and make a positive impact in the field of law enforcement. In addition to my personal pursuits in forensic science, I have a strong desire to share my knowledge and expertise with others. It is my goal to educate individuals about the critical role forensic science plays in solving crimes and promoting safety in our communities. Through various outreach programs and speaking engagements, I intend to raise awareness about the importance of forensic science in the criminal justice system and inspire future generations to pursue careers in this field. I am passionate about fostering a greater understanding of forensic science and its impact on society. By sharing my enthusiasm for this field, I hope to make a lasting contribution to the safety and well-being of our communities. I believe that the role of forensic science in the criminal justice system cannot be overstated. It is a crucial tool for solving crimes, identifying perpetrators, and bringing justice to victims and their families. As technology continues to advance, the field of forensic science will only become more important, and I encourage future generations to consider pursuing careers in this exciting and rewarding field. Together, we can make a difference and help ensure a safer and more just society for all.
    Grace Lynn Ross Memorial Scholarship
    Forensic science pulls me in like a yo-yo, time after time. Ever since I was a child, I have been fascinated by the way forensic science can solve crimes and bring justice to victims. From trying to sneak past my bedtime to watch crime documentaries to trying to conduct my own investigations to solve televised cases, my passion has only grown over the years. Now, as a recent high school graduate, I've decided to take the plunge and pursue a career in law enforcement, eager to utilize my passion and skills to make a positive impact in the world. Pursuing a degree in forensic science will not only fulfill my passion but also equip me with the necessary skills and knowledge to make a difference in the lives of others. With my degree, I plan on working with law enforcement agencies to help solve crimes and bring closure to families affected by heinous acts. Additionally, I hope to contribute to the development of new techniques and technologies that can improve the accuracy and efficiency of forensic investigations. By sharing my ardor for forensic science, I aspire to have a long-lasting impact on society and contribute to a more secure and equitable world. Additionally, I plan on using my knowledge and skills to educate others about the importance of forensic science in solving crimes and promoting safety in our communities. Through outreach programs and speaking engagements, I aim to raise awareness about the role of forensic science in the criminal justice system and inspire future generations to pursue careers in this field. By sharing my passion for forensic science, I hope to make a lasting impact on society and contribute to a safer and more just world. Winning this scholarship opportunity will bring me one step closer to achieving my lifelong aspiration of utilizing science to serve justice. It would mean the world to me if all the sacrifices I have made, such as countless sleepless nights researching and studying forensic science, could finally be acknowledged and rewarded. I am grateful for the opportunity to apply for this scholarship and promise to use it to its fullest potential. With unwavering perseverance and unyielding dedication, I am confident that I can make a substantial positive impact in the realm of forensic science and contribute to the betterment of society as a whole. Thank you for taking the time to consider my application.