During finals week, my honors chemistry class required me to build a complex molecular structure using kabob sticks and Styrofoam balls. I meticulously measured the angles between atoms, bonds, and unpaired electrons, but I quickly realized how difficult it was to ensure precision. To solve this, I created cardboard cutouts of the necessary angles, allowing my partner and me to measure more accurately and complete the project more efficiently. This experience made me realize how many scientific processes and concepts are embedded in something as simple as molecular structure. It sparked my curiosity and pushed me to take AP Chemistry, where I could gain a deeper understanding of the countless processes that govern matter. Once in the class, I participated in several labs, including the chromatography lab, which fascinated me. I was astonished by how something that seemed so simple was actually complex at a molecular level. However, I initially struggled to understand the process. Determined to grasp the concept, I took matters into my own hands—I researched videos and articles online, revised my notes by making connections to previously learned material, and practiced solving problems through trial and error. Expanding my knowledge outside of the classroom not only deepened my understanding but also gave me the confidence to engage in discussions with my classmates. As one of the few young women in my class, I felt proud to hold my own in these conversations. That experience solidified my decision to pursue chemistry as my major. AP Chemistry also made me think critically about issues I had never considered before. For instance, while reflecting on how often my family and friends replaced their phones, I became aware of society’s obsession with overconsumption. My research into electronic waste revealed the alarming environmental impact of discarded smartphones. Every year, 150 million phones are thrown away in the U.S., releasing toxic heavy metals that pollute the air, soil, and water, leading to serious health issues like respiratory diseases. This realization transformed my perspective on chemistry—I no longer saw it as just a subject in school, but as a tool I could use to address real-world problems. As a future environmental chemist, I aspire to develop biodegradable and recyclable materials to replace harmful smartphone components and explore chemical processes that neutralize hazardous substances in e-waste. By combining chemistry with environmental science, I want to create sustainable solutions that reduce long-term pollution and promote a healthier planet. Beyond academics, my involvement in STEM has helped me develop leadership skills. From guiding my partner through our chemistry project to helping my peers understand difficult concepts, I have learned how to communicate effectively, think critically, and collaborate with others. In college, I plan to build on these skills by participating in hands-on research, working on environmental policy initiatives, and connecting with other scientists who share my passion. As a low-income, Latina, first-generation student, I understand the barriers that exist for young women in STEM. However, my experiences have taught me resilience, innovation, and the importance of using my knowledge to create change. Just as I once found a way to solve a chemistry project with simple tools, I am determined to use my education and hard work to develop real solutions for environmental sustainability. I am eager to take the next step in my journey and use science to make a lasting impact on my community and beyond.

Since my sophomore year, representing my Mexican community’s culture has become important to me. While growing up, my parents raised me with the Spanish language, traditional Mexican foods like tamales, watching telenovelas with my abuelita, and family visits to Mexico. However, I still did not feel entirely connected to my Mexican heritage. Once such an opportunity to develop more insight into my cultural identity presented itself, I joined the Ballet Folklórico Club at my high school. As I strengthened my cultural pride through dance, I stepped into a new skill and interest. I progressively executed complex moves until success, improved my interpersonal skills, and overcame my stage fright. Integrating myself into my culture through strong friendships in my folklórico team and a meaningful medium outside of my comfort zone granted me the experience of feeling its impact on the audience. Without a miss, at each performance, I hear individuals let out “gritos”, as we call it, which is an exuberant shout of encouragement to boost the ambiance. The crowds' contagious reactions make me feel honored to represent my Mexican culture. Dancing ballet folklórico while in high school has shaped me as an individual as I honor my heritage by reviving the fervent passion of my community and prioritizing academic success. As someone who thrives in intellectually curious communities and aspires to become an environmental chemist, I am excited to pursue a four-year college education. Under a chemistry major, I eagerly anticipate partaking in hands-on research projects to gain valuable fieldwork experience in innovating comprehensive solutions to real-world challenges. These opportunities would enhance my preparation for graduate school employment, with the development of leadership, communication, and collaborative skills. My household consists of my parents, my brother who is in college, my grandmother, and myself. We rent at my uncle’s house. My father, a postal worker, is the main provider of our family, and my mother is a part-time elementary campus supervisor. The money my parents make is our only source of income. When paying the bills, we have little to no money left to spend on recreation. Therefore, I am applying for scholarships to afford and take full advantage of my college education. With this support, I will strive to become a successful female, Mexican student in STEM and inspire other Mexicans like me, from low-income communities, to pursue a post-secondary education where they can refine their future with prosperous experiences.

During a chromatography lab in my AP Chemistry class, I reflected on how something seemingly simple is so complex. After finishing homework for the day, I was motivated to diligently research videos and articles online about the processes within chromatography. Promptly, I revised my class notes with arrows connecting previously learned material with recently gained information, detailed definitions, and free-response exercise questions that I solved through trial and error. Expanding my knowledge outside the classroom allowed me to analyze the topic profoundly while discussing it in class, which inspired me to pursue Chemistry as my major at a four-year university. While in university, I would be privileged to review my high school notes with advanced college-level notes. Transitioning into an intellectually curious scientific community in university will allow me to thrive and make all the additional time I invested in studying chemistry in high school worth it. Searching for one’s community in college where one can pursue one’s passions is just as important as searching for one in high school. My opportunity to find one arose in my sophomore year when I saw a flier posted at my high school about joining my school’s marching and symphonic band. Ever since fourth grade, during which I developed a passion for playing the flute, I desired to play in high school and this was the chance I eagerly took to do it. Despite my excitement, I quickly became overwhelmed managing my academics while participating in band activities. Moreover, I was a less experienced band member than my peers who partook in their middle school band. I challenged myself to rebuild a stronger musical foundation by concurrently learning basic and advanced musical terms, rhythms, and instrumental skills. To pursue my goal of playing music in high school, I maximized my time learning musical skills by asking my flute captain and band members questions regarding the music material during each band class, rehearsal, and while practicing at home. Additionally, I sought extra assistance by arranging days after school with my band’s assistant director, who taught me articulation and rhythms. Since rehearsals were 4.5 hours a week and events even longer, I prevented wasting time by utilizing rehearsal breaks, event waits, study hall during school, and the Movement’s after-school tutoring, for completing homework and studying. There were days when going to rehearsal felt like a burden of responsibility. Yet, I did not have the urge to let it go. Through self-dedication, I reinforced my academic discipline by scheduling and prioritizing homework and studying to maintain high grades. Despite the challenging sacrifices of missing out on social activities and losing sleep, they were key to my success. As a result of working diligently, I finished the school year with straight A’s, was acknowledged as the most improved musician, ran for leadership, and became the band’s librarian. All while, fulfilling my childhood dream to reencounter my love for music through unforgettable memories and improvement in my musical knowledge and skills. This experience allowed me to realize the strength of my capabilities as I genuinely worked towards a goal and did not just dream about it. With a persevering and resilient mindset, I strengthened my ability to make sacrifices to prioritize certain pursuits such as my academics, which I confidently continued to do in my junior year and now senior year with new interests and established self-discipline. As I am on the road to attending college, I will continue to employ such a mentality as it is a rewarding process that will fulfill my ambition of completing college after experiencing an enriching education.