Dreams, no matter how big or small, define our ambitions and shape our future. My name is Cooper Irwin and ever since I was a little kid, my dream was to become a mechanical engineer. From a young age, I was fascinated by inventing and problem-solving. In elementary school, I was part of the inventing club and competed in Invent Idaho, where I designed and presented my own creation. Although I didn’t win, the experience ignited my passion for innovation and engineering. It taught me that success isn’t always about winning but about learning, improving, and pushing forward. This early exposure to creative problem-solving laid the foundation for my desire to pursue a career in engineering. One defining moment in my journey happened when I tried to fix my broken bicycle as a kid. Instead of asking for help, I took it apart piece by piece, determined to understand how it worked. I confidently reassembled it, only to realize I had put the chain on incorrectly and the pedals wouldn’t turn. Frustrated but not ready to give up, I turned to my dad for help. He immediately saw what I had done wrong and walked me through fixing it. Even though I hadn’t gotten it right the first time, I felt a lot of pride for fixing my bike. That experience reinforced my love for mechanics and problem-solving, showing me that mistakes are just stepping stones to learning and improvement. The first step in reaching my dream is through education. I plan to graduate high school with an associate’s degree through North Idaho College, giving me a strong academic foundation. In the fall, I will attend the University of Idaho to pursue a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering. Engineering requires both theoretical knowledge and practical experience, so I plan to seek internships, research opportunities, and hands-on projects that, combined with the University of Idaho's reputable engineering program, will set me up for success. Beyond academics, leadership and community involvement are integral to my growth. My experiences as a swim team captain, tennis coach, and volunteer have taught me the value of teamwork, mentorship, and perseverance. As a leader, I support and uplift those around me, encouraging them to push beyond their limits just as I push beyond mine. These qualities will serve me well in engineering, where collaboration and problem-solving are essential in designing solutions that improve lives. One of my aspirations is to use my engineering skills to contribute to projects that enhance infrastructure, energy efficiency, or technology that benefits communities. Engineers play a crucial role in shaping the world, from developing sustainable energy solutions to creating safer transportation systems. By pursuing my dream, I hope to find personal fulfillment and also give back to society, ensuring my work has a lasting impact. Daniel’s words, “Complete Your Dream,” remind me that every step toward my goal matters. Through dedication, perseverance, and a commitment to lifelong learning, I will turn my dream into a reality, one that benefits both myself and those around me.