My parents came to the United States at an early age. Leaving their homes behind with nothing but the clothes on their back. They met when my mother was 17 and my father 16. Not much later they became parents and had to fight tooth and nail not only for their American Dream, but their dream to have a child that wouldn’t have to face as much as they did in their home country. As a child I always saw my parents struggle. Making ends meet paycheck to paycheck. I knew we were never financially stable when my father had “twisted” his foot, but refused to seek medical help. After days of excruciating pain he went and got it checked out and turned out his foot was broken. Now my fathers broken foot wasn’t what made me want to pursue nursing at first, but for the fact my 8 year old self had to translate to my parents what the x-ray tech was telling them. With the sorrow look of the lady seeming to understand the shoes I had was the time I understood what underrepresentation meant. 5.4% Is just a statistic that could mean nothing to anybody, but this statistic means the most to me. 5.4% is the percentage of Latina women in the nursing profession. As a child, I always wanted to help others, and there were many careers I could have chosen, but I chose nursing. Going to the doctor was never easy for my parents and I, but you know the first person you see is a nurse. That first interaction could either make or break it, depending on the compassion of the nurse and her understanding. Growing up with a voice that was silenced due to the lack of cohesion and flow. I have learned to understand and be compassionate for others as those nurses taught me vicariously. When I was 15 years old I decided I would get my CNA as soon as I turned 16. Through my job, I have learned to not only love my residents for who they are, but to love myself for what I do. Nursing helps me connect with those who are at their most vulnerable. Not only that, but it helps me be their advocate. Advocacy isn’t just for patients, but for the rest of the 5.4%. Through high school, many of my friends and I talked about our dreams in healthcare, but we knew that the chance of them becoming true wasn't going to be the easiest. Having parents who never went to college, it was up to me to pave my path. I understand how difficult it is, not only for my Latino community, but for other young teens aspiring to be in healthcare. I hope to advocate that it isn't impossible and that we can use our strengths and skills to make our communities stronger and healthier. Step-by-step and dream-by-dream I will become the nurse I hope to be and aspire to show others that the impossible can be possible.

My parents came to the United States at an early age. Leaving their homes behind with nothing but the clothes on their back. They met when my mother was 17 and my father 16. Not much later they became parents and had to fight tooth and nail not only for their American Dream, but their dream to have a child that wouldn’t have to face as much as they did in their home country. As a child I always saw my parents struggle. Making ends meet paycheck to paycheck. I knew we were never financially stable when my father had “twisted” his foot but refused to seek medical help. After days of excruciating pain he went and got it checked out and turned out his foot was broken. Now my fathers broken foot wasn’t what made me want to pursue nursing at first, but for the fact my 8 year old self had to translate to my parents what the x-ray tech was telling them. With the sorrow look of the lady seeming to understand the shoes I had to fill was the time I understood what underrepresentation meant. 5.4% Is just a statistic that could mean nothing to anybody, but this statistic means the most to me. 5.4% is the percentage of Latina women in the nursing profession. As a child, I always wanted to help others, and there were many careers I could have chosen, but I chose nursing. Going to the doctor was never easy for my parents and I, but you know the first person you see is a nurse. That first interaction could either make or break it, depending on the compassion of the nurse and her understanding. Growing up with a voice that was silenced due to the lack of cohesion and flow. I have learned to understand and be compassionate for others as those nurses taught me vicariously. When I was 15 years old I decided I would get my CNA as soon as I turned 16. Through my job, I have learned to not only love my residents for who they are, but to love myself for what I do. Nursing helps me connect with those who are at their most vulnerable. Not only that, but it helps me be their advocate. Advocacy isn’t just for patients, but for the rest of the 5.4%. Through high school, many of my friends and I talked about our dreams in healthcare, but we knew that the chance of them becoming true wasn't going to be the easiest. Having parents who never went to college, it was up to me to pave my path. I understand how difficult it is, not only for my Latino community, but for other young teens aspiring to be in healthcare. I hope to advocate that it isn't impossible and that we can use our strengths and skills to make our communities stronger and healthier. Step-by-step and dream-by-dream I will become the nurse I hope to be and aspire to show others that the impossible can be possible.

My parents came to the United States at an early age. Leaving their homes behind with nothing but the clothes on their back. They met when my mother was 17 and my father 16. Not much later they became parents and had to fight tooth and nail not only for their American Dream, but their dream to have a child that wouldn’t have to face as much as they did in their home country. As a child I always saw my parents struggle. Making ends meet paycheck to paycheck. I knew we were never financially stable when my father had “twisted” his foot, but refused to seek medical help. After days of excruciating pain he went and got it checked out and turned out his foot was broken. Now my fathers broken foot wasn’t what made me want to pursue nursing at first, but for the fact my 8 year old self had to translate to my parents what the x-ray tech was telling them. With the sorrow look of the lady seeming to understand the shoes I had was the time I understood what underrepresentation meant. 5.4% Is just a statistic that could mean nothing to anybody, but this statistic means the most to me. 5.4% is the percentage of Latina women in the nursing profession. As a child, I always wanted to help others, and there were many careers I could have chosen, but I chose nursing. Going to the doctor was never easy for my parents and I, but you know the first person you see is a nurse. That first interaction could either make or break it, depending on the compassion of the nurse and her understanding. Growing up with a voice that was silenced due to the lack of cohesion and flow. I have learned to understand and be compassionate for others as those nurses taught me vicariously. When I was 15 years old I decided I would get my CNA as soon as I turned 16. Through my job, I have learned to not only love my residents for who they are, but to love myself for what I do. Nursing helps me connect with those who are at their most vulnerable. Not only that, but it helps me be their advocate. Advocacy isn’t just for patients, but for the rest of the 5.4%. Through high school, many of my friends and I talked about our dreams in healthcare, but we knew that the chance of them becoming true wasn't going to be the easiest. Having parents who never went to college, it was up to me to pave my path. I understand how difficult it is, not only for my Latino community, but for other young teens aspiring to be in healthcare. I hope to advocate that it isn't impossible and that we can use our strengths and skills to make our communities stronger and healthier. Step-by-step and dream-by-dream I will become the nurse I hope to be and aspire to show others that the impossible can be possible.

As a child I always saw my parents struggle. Making ends meet paycheck to paycheck. I knew we were never financially stable when my father had “twisted” his foot, but refused to seek medical help. After days of excruciating pain he went and got it checked out and turned out his foot was broken. Now my fathers broken foot wasn’t what made me want to pursue nursing at first, but for the fact my 8 year old self had to translate to my parents what the x-ray tech was telling them. With the sorrow look of the lady seeming to understand the shoes I had was the time I understood what underrepresentation meant. 5.4% Is just a statistic that could mean nothing to anybody, but this statistic means the most to me. 5.4% is the percentage of Latina women in the nursing profession. As a child, I always wanted to help others, and there were many careers I could have chosen, but I chose nursing. Going to the doctor was never easy for my parents and I, but you know the first person you see is a nurse. That first interaction could either make or break it, depending on the compassion of the nurse and her understanding. Growing up with a voice that was silenced due to the lack of cohesion and flow. I have learned to understand and be compassionate for others as those nurses taught me vicariously. When I was 15 years old I decided I would get my CNA as soon as I turned 16. Through my job, I have learned to not only love my residents for who they are, but to love myself for what I do. Nursing helps me connect with those who are at their most vulnerable. Not only that, but it helps me be their advocate. Advocacy isn’t just for patients, but for the rest of the 5.4%. Through high school, many of my friends and I talked about our dreams in healthcare, but we knew that the chance of them becoming true wasn't going to be the easiest. Having parents who never went to college, it was up to me to pave my path. I understand how difficult it is, not only for my Latino community, but for other young teens aspiring to be in healthcare. I hope to advocate that it isn't impossible and that we can use our strengths and skills to make our communities stronger and healthier. Step-by-step and dream-by-dream I will become the nurse I hope to be and aspire to show others that the impossible can be possible.

5.4% is what diversity means to me. Now, this is just a statistic that could mean nothing to anybody, but this statistic means the most to me. 5.4% is the percentage of Latina women in the nursing profession. As a child, I always wanted to help others, and there were many careers I could have chosen, but I chose nursing. I didn't just choose nursing for the heck of it, but for the fact that I spent my youngest years in and out of the hospital. Going to the doctor was always scary, but you know the first person you see is a nurse. That first interaction could either make or break it, depending on the compassion of the nurse and her understanding. Growing up with a voice that was silenced by most, I have learned to understand and be compassionate for others, as those nurses taught me vicariously. Those nurses may have thought I was just another kid with a sickness, but they never made me feel any less. Nursing helps me connect with those who are at their most vulnerable. Not only that, but it helps me be their advocate. Advocacy isn’t just for patients, but for the rest of the 5.4%. Living in a rural area I understood how difficult it is to find healthcare or for the matter a healthcare advocate willing to stand up for you. I plan to continue working in Nebraska after my graduation to not help my community, but to show many more young teens it is possible. Through high school, many of my friends and I talked about our dreams in healthcare, but we knew that the chance of them becoming true wasn't going to be the easiest. Having parents who never went to college, it was up to me to pave my path. I understand how difficult it is, not only for my Latino community, but for other young teens, moms and even grandmothers aspiring to be in healthcare. I hope to advocate that it isn't impossible and that we can use our strengths and skills to make our communities stronger and healthier. Step-by-step and dream-by-dream I will become the nurse I hope to be and aspire to show others that the impossible can be possible. Too many doors have been closed shut for me and I believe it is time I begin opening them and not just for myself, but for my peers.

5.4% is what diversity means to me. Now, this is just a statistic that could mean nothing to anybody, but this statistic means the most to me. 5.4% is the percentage of Latina women in the nursing profession. As a child, I always wanted to help others, and there were many careers I could have chosen, but I chose nursing. I didn't just choose nursing for the heck of it, but for the fact that I spent my youngest years in and out of the hospital. Going to the doctor was always scary, but you know the first person you see is a nurse. That first interaction could either make or break it, depending on the compassion of the nurse and her understanding. Growing up with a voice that was silenced by most, I have learned to understand and be compassionate for others, as those nurses taught me vicariously. Those nurses may have thought I was just another kid with a sickness, but they never made me feel any less. Nursing helps me connect with those who are at their most vulnerable. Not only that, but it helps me be their advocate. Advocacy isn’t just for patients, but for the rest of the 5.4%. Living in a rural area I understood how difficult it is to find healthcare or for the matter a healthcare advocate willing to stand up for you. I plan to continue working in Nebraska after my graduation to not help my community, but to show many more young teens it is possible. Through high school, many of my friends and I talked about our dreams in healthcare, but we knew that the chance of them becoming true wasn't going to be the easiest. Having parents who never went to college, it was up to me to pave my path. I understand how difficult it is, not only for my Latino community, but for other young teens, moms and even grandmothers aspiring to be in healthcare. I hope to advocate that it isn't impossible and that we can use our strengths and skills to make our communities stronger and healthier. Step-by-step and dream-by-dream I will become the nurse I hope to be and aspire to show others that the impossible can be possible. Too many doors have been closed shut for me and I believe it is time I begin opening them and not just for myself, but for my peers.

5.4% is what diversity means to me. Now, this is just a statistic that could mean nothing to anybody, but this statistic means the most to me. 5.4% is the percentage of Latina women in the nursing profession. As a child, I always wanted to help others, and there were many careers I could have chosen, but I chose nursing. I didn't just choose nursing for the heck of it, but for the fact that I spent my youngest years in and out of the hospital. Going to the doctor was always scary, but you know the first person you see is a nurse. That first interaction could either make or break it, depending on the compassion of the nurse and her understanding. Growing up with a voice that was silenced by most, I have learned to understand and be compassionate for others, as those nurses taught me vicariously. Those nurses may have thought I was just another kid with a sickness, but they never made me feel any less. Nursing helps me connect with those who are at their most vulnerable. Not only that, but it helps me be their advocate. Advocacy isn’t just for patients, but for the rest of the 5.4%. Living in a rural area I understood how difficult it is to find healthcare or for the matter a healthcare advocate willing to stand up for you. I plan to continue working in Nebraska after my graduation to not help my community, but to show many more young teens it is possible. Through high school, many of my friends and I talked about our dreams in healthcare, but we knew that the chance of them becoming true wasn't going to be the easiest. Having parents who never went to college, it was up to me to pave my path. I understand how difficult it is, not only for my Latino community, but for other young teens, moms and even grandmothers aspiring to be in healthcare. I hope to advocate that it isn't impossible and that we can use our strengths and skills to make our communities stronger and healthier. Step-by-step and dream-by-dream I will become the nurse I hope to be and aspire to show others that the impossible can be possible. Too many doors have been closed shut for me and I believe it is time I begin opening them and not just for myself, but for my peers.

"The land of the free, the golden land" is what I heard as a child from both my parents who migrated here in their teenage years. How could it be golden if I was always having to restrain my feelings to save myself from bigotry? Dealing with discrimination as a child had only made me resilient and more persistent to accomplish my goals. From a young age, I was told I should just go to beauty school or see if I could work as a waitress as any other career would not be achievable due to my social status and upbringing. Going through a life scare at the young age of six, I was in the hospital for weeks seeing many specialists throughout my time there. I was able to see how a hospital setting was and what they did for work. I admired the work from afar making it my goal to someday help other children in need. Helping make a positive difference in somebody's life. In my junior year of high school, I was able to accomplish my nurse aid class whilst running for senior class secretary. I passed my state board exam, which has now allowed me to work in geriatric care in a nursing home and begin my med aide class. In addition, at the end of my junior year, my peers voted me in too my class government. Through this position, I have been able to speak for my classmates who feel like their voices are not heard. Showcasing their opinions on how I can help make their senior year unforgettable. Leaving a positive impact and helping influence next year's student governing body. Through these experiences, I have learned that I am fully capable of being the young woman and professional that I was meant to be. I will become a nurse--knowing the pain and the overcoming of bigotry--who helps children and their families in those hard times of illness and not incapable of knowing if the problem will ever resolve and with those times of healing find that golden land. Through my work, I will continue to be an ear to listen to or a voice to speak for those who feel that they do not matter. Showing other young children that no matter the circumstance you are always able to overcome it and transform into the best version of yourself and finally understanding what "the land of the free" actually means

"The land of the free, the golden land" is what I heard as a child from both my parents who migrated here in their teenage years. How could it be golden if I was always having to restrain my feelings to save myself from bigotry? Dealing with discrimination as a child had only made me resilient and more persistent to accomplish my goals. From a young age, I was told I should just go to beauty school or see if I could work as a waitress as any other career would not be achievable due to my social status and upbringing. Going through a life scare at the young age of six, I was in the hospital for weeks seeing many specialists throughout my time there. I was able to see how a hospital setting was and what they did for work. I admired the work from afar making it my goal to someday help other children in need. Helping make a positive difference in somebody's life. In my junior year of high school, I was able to accomplish my nurse aid class whilst running for senior class secretary. I passed my state board exam, which has now allowed me to work in geriatric care in a nursing home and begin my med aide class. In addition, at the end of my junior year, my peers voted me in too my class government. Through this position, I have been able to speak for my classmates who feel like their voices are not heard. Showcasing their opinions on how I can help make their senior year unforgettable. Leaving a positive impact and helping influence next year's student governing body. Through these experiences, I have learned that I am fully capable of being the young woman and professional that I was meant to be. I will become a nurse--knowing the pain and the overcoming of bigotry--who helps children and their families in those hard times of illness and not incapable of knowing if the problem will ever resolve and with those times of healing find that golden land. Through my work, I will continue to be an ear to listen to or a voice to speak for those who feel that they do not matter. Showing other young children that no matter the circumstance you are always able to overcome it and transform into the best version of yourself and finally understanding what "the land of the free" actually means

"The land of the free, the golden land" is what I heard as a child from both my parents who migrated here in their teenage years. How could it be golden if I was always having to restrain my feelings to save myself from bigotry? Dealing with discrimination as a child had only made me resilient and more persistent to accomplish my goals. From a young age, I was told I should just go to beauty school or see if I could work as a waitress as any other career would not be achievable due to my social status and upbringing. Going through a life scare at the young age of six, I was in the hospital for weeks seeing many specialists throughout my time there. I was able to see how a hospital setting was and what they did for work. I admired the work from afar making it my goal to someday help other children in need. Helping make a positive difference in somebody's life. In my junior year of high school, I was able to accomplish my nurse aid class whilst running for senior class secretary. I passed my state board exam, which has now allowed me to work in geriatric care in a nursing home and begin my med aide class. In addition, at the end of my junior year, my peers voted me in too my class government. Through this position, I have been able to speak for my classmates who feel like their voices are not heard. Showcasing their opinions on how I can help make their senior year unforgettable. Leaving a positive impact and helping influence next year's student governing body. Through these experiences, I have learned that I am fully capable of being the young woman and professional that I was meant to be. I will become a nurse--knowing the pain and the overcoming of bigotry--who helps children and their families in those hard times of illness and not incapable of knowing if the problem will ever resolve and with those times of healing find that golden land. Through my work, I will continue to be an ear to listen to or a voice to speak for those who feel that they do not matter. Showing other young children that no matter the circumstance you are always able to overcome it and transform into the best version of yourself and finally understanding what "the land of the free" actually means

"The land of the free, the golden land" is what I heard as a child from both my parents who migrated here in their teenage years from a foriegn land. How could it be golden if I was always having to restrain my feelings to save myself from bigotry. Dealing with discrimination as a child had only made me resilient and more persistent to accomplish my goals. From a young age, I was told I should just go to beauty school as any other career I would not be able to achieve due to my social status and upbringing. Going through a life scare at the young age of six, I was in the hospital for weeks seeing many specialists throughout my time there. I was able to see how a hospital setting was and what they did for work. I admired the work from afar making it my goal to someday help other children in need. In my junior year of high school, I was able to accomplish my nurse aid class whilst running for senior class secretary. I passed my state board exam, which has now allowed me to work in geriatric care in a nursing home. In addition, at the end of my junior year, my peers voted me in to my class government. Through this position, I have been able to speak for my classmates who feel like their voices are not heard. During my 4 years of highschool I have been a part of the school's volleyball, soccer, and wrestling team. I have grasped what being a teammate is. Not only that, but how hard work it is to learn a new sport. After practice staying later than what was required to work to help achieve my own personal goal which is becoming the best version of myself. Through these experiences I have learned that I am fully capable of being the young woman and professional that I was meant to be. With this scholarship it will move me one step closer to my goal. I shall become a nurse--knowing the pain and the overcoming of bigotry--who helps children and families in those hard times of illness and not knowing and those times of healing find that golden land, and through my work. I will continue to be an ear to listen to or a voice to speak for those who feel that they do not matter.

"The land of the free, the golden land" is what I heard as a child from both my parents who migrated here in their teenage years from a foriegn land. How could it be golden if I was always having to restrain my feelings to save myself from bigotry. Dealing with discrimination as a child had only made me resilient and more persistent to accomplish my goals. From a young age, I was told I should just go to beauty school as any other career I would not be able to achieve due to my social status and upbringing. Going through a life scare at the young age of six, I was in the hospital for weeks seeing many specialists throughout my time there. I was able to see how a hospital setting was and what they did for work. I admired the work from afar making it my goal to someday help other children in need. In my junior year of high school, I was able to accomplish my nurse aid class whilst running for senior class secretary. I passed my state board exam, which has now allowed me to work in geriatric care in a nursing home. In addition, at the end of my junior year, my peers voted me in to my class government. Through this position, I have been able to speak for my classmates who feel like their voices are not heard. During my 4 years of highschool I have been a part of the school's volleyball, soccer, and wrestling team. I have grasped what being a teammate is. Not only that, but how hard work it is to learn a new sport. After practice staying later than what was required to work to help achieve my own personal goal which is becoming the best version of myself. Through these experiences I have learned that I am fully capable of being the young woman and professional that I was meant to be. With this scholarship it will move me one step closer to my goal. I shall become a nurse--knowing the pain and the overcoming of bigotry--who helps children and families in those hard times of illness and not knowing and those times of healing find that golden land, and through my work. I will continue to be an ear to listen to or a voice to speak for those who feel that they do not matter.

"The land of the free, the golden land" is what I heard as a child from both my parents who migrated here in their teenage years from a foriegn land. How could it be golden if I was always having to restrain my feelings to save myself from bigotry. Dealing with discrimination as a child had only made me resilient and more persistent to accomplish my goals. From a young age, I was told I should just go to beauty school as any other career I would not be able to achieve due to my social status and upbringing. Going through a life scare at the young age of six, I was in the hospital for weeks seeing many specialists throughout my time there. I was able to see how a hospital setting was and what they did for work. I admired the work from afar making it my goal to someday help other children in need. In my junior year of high school, I was able to accomplish my nurse aid class whilst running for senior class secretary. I passed my state board exam, which has now allowed me to work in geriatric care in a nursing home. In addition, at the end of my junior year, my peers voted me in to my class government. Through this position, I have been able to speak for my classmates who feel like their voices are not heard. During my 4 years of highschool I have been a part of the school's volleyball, soccer, and wrestling team. I have grasped what being a teammate is. Not only that, but how hard work it is to learn a new sport. After practice staying later than what was required to work to help achieve my own personal goal which is becoming the best version of myself. Through these experiences I have learned that I am fully capable of being the young woman and professional that I was meant to be. With this scholarship it will move me one step closer to my goal. I shall become a nurse--knowing the pain and the overcoming of bigotry--who helps children and families in those hard times of illness and not knowing and those times of healing find that golden land, and through my work. I will continue to be an ear to listen to or a voice to speak for those who feel that they do not matter.

"The land of the free, the golden land" is what I heard as a child from both my parents who migrated here in their teenage years from a foriegn land. How could it be golden if I was always having to restrain my feelings to save myself from bigotry. Dealing with discrimination as a child had only made me resilient and more persistent to accomplish my goals. From a young age, I was told I should just go to beauty school as any other career I would not be able to achieve due to my social status and upbringing. Going through a life scare at the young age of six, I was in the hospital for weeks seeing many specialists throughout my time there. I was able to see how a hospital setting was and what they did for work. I admired the work from afar making it my goal to someday help other children in need. In my junior year of high school, I was able to accomplish my nurse aid class whilst running for senior class secretary. I passed my state board exam, which has now allowed me to work in geriatric care in a nursing home. In addition, at the end of my junior year, my peers voted me in to my class government. Through this position, I have been able to speak for my classmates who feel like their voices are not heard. During my 4 years of highschool I have been a part of the school's volleyball, soccer, and wrestling team. I have grasped what being a teammate is. Not only that, but how hard work it is to learn a new sport. After practice staying later than what was required to work to help achieve my own personal goal which is becoming the best version of myself. Through these experiences I have learned that I am fully capable of being the young woman and professional that I was meant to be. With this scholarship it will move me one step closer to my goal. I shall become a nurse--knowing the pain and the overcoming of bigotry--who helps children and families in those hard times of illness and not knowing and those times of healing find that golden land, and through my work. I will continue to be an ear to listen to or a voice to speak for those who feel that they do not matter.

I have done tae-kwon-do ever since I was in the 3rd grade. A few lessons I was taught and have applied outside of tae-kwon-do were to have patience and discipline. Both of these have been useful in my academic career as a discipline has helped me accomplish my academic work and patience has helped me see the development of my grades and achievements. Not only that but tae-kwon-do has also taught me that you won't be great at everything from the beginning and that hard work is required to become better. I have applied this to my career and future as I have taken many dual-credit courses to help advance me in my college career. Many of these courses being hard I was disciplined to work hard and persevere my way through them accomplishing the courses with high grades.

"The land of the free, the golden land" is what I heard as a child from both my parents who migrated here in their teenage years. How could it be golden if I was always having to restrain my feelings to save myself from bigotry. Dealing with discrimination as a child had only made me resilient and more persistent to accomplish my goals. From a young age, I was told I should just go to beauty school as any other career I would not be able to achieve due to my social status and upbringing. Going through a life scare at the young age of six, I was in the hospital for weeks seeing many specialists throughout in and out for multiple months. I was able to see how a hospital setting was and what they did for work. I admired the work from afar making it my goal to someday help other children in need. In my junior year of high school, I was able to accomplish my nurse aid class whilst running for senior class secretary. I passed my state board exam, which has now allowed me to work in geriatric care in a nursing home. In addition, at the end of my junior year, my peers voted me into my class government. Through this position, I have been able to speak for my classmates who feel like their voices are not heard. During my 4 years of high school, I have been a part of the school's volleyball, soccer, and wrestling team. I have grasped what being a teammate is. Not only that but how hard work it is to learn a new sport. After practice staying later than what was required to work to help achieve my own personal goal which is becoming the best version of myself. Through these experiences, I have learned that I am fully capable of being the young woman and professional that I was meant to be. With this scholarship, it will move me one step closer to my goal. I shall become a nurse--knowing the pain and the overcoming of bigotry--who helps children and families in those hard times of illness and not knowing and those times of healing find that golden land, and through my work. I will continue to be an ear to listen to or a voice to speak for those who feel that they do not matter.

I lock myself into my room, my eyes are starting to fill with tears. Upset I received a 73% grade on a test. I was only in middle school. Feeling like a failure at such a young age of 13. Mental Health can seem so simple, yet be so complicated, especially for those growing up in a traditional Latin household, where Hispanics believe mental health doesn’t exist. We choose to be happy, sad, or upset. No one can make that choice other than the one affected. Although this scenario is true for most Hispanics, as an older sister and my family's first-generational child, this unspoken law has slowly broken me down. I constantly tried every sport just to get my mind off school, work, and my home life, never thinking that mental health could affect me. However, I am not excluded. Constantly being ridiculed to be better. Be what my parents couldn't be. To live the American Dream, but why is the American Dream so difficult to achieve. What is the definition of the American Dream? My parents have always supported me in trying every support I set my mind into. That being tae-kwon-do, to wrestling, to setting up the ball in volleyball, soccer, and basketball. Playing each of these sports has taught me how to get back up and keep trying as my game isn't over. "The score didn't define the game" my coach would tell me after a bad match "what defines it is the effort you put out on the field, court, or mat and what you plan on correcting. How you plan on making yourself and your team better" Following what my coaches have told me, I plan on making that my American Dream. I want to help others who also feel like they are being diminished, whose thoughts are shut down as they feel like they cannot meet the expectations they were born to meet. Who hasn’t had someone like my coach to tell them it isn't over. It's over until you stop putting effort. I will make a difference in as many lives as possible, listening to and helping others, showing them that they can always be compassionate and persevere through the toughest battles. I want to become A registered nurse. I believe that everyone who I may come in contact with will get the empathy and compassion they may need. That no matter how dire the situation you can always persevere through it.

"The land of the free, the golden land" is what I heard as a child from both my parents who migrated here in their teenage years. How could it be golden if I was always having to restrain my feelings to save myself from bigotry? Dealing with discrimination as a child had only made me resilient and more persistent to accomplish my goals. From a young age, I was told I should just go to beauty school or see if I could work as a waitress as any other career would not be achievable due to my social status and upbringing. Going through a life scare at the young age of six, I was in the hospital for weeks seeing many specialists throughout my time there. I was able to see how a hospital setting was and what they did for work. I admired the work from afar making it my goal to someday help other children in need. Helping make a positive difference in somebody's life. In my junior year of high school, I was able to accomplish my nurse aid class whilst running for senior class secretary. I passed my state board exam, which has now allowed me to work in geriatric care in a nursing home and begin my med aide class. In addition, at the end of my junior year, my peers voted me in too my class government. Through this position, I have been able to speak for my classmates who feel like their voices are not heard. Showcasing their opinions on how I can help make their senior year unforgettable. Leaving a positive impact and helping influence next year's student governing body. Through these experiences, I have learned that I am fully capable of being the young woman and professional that I was meant to be. I will become a nurse--knowing the pain and the overcoming of bigotry--who helps children and their families in those hard times of illness and not incapable of knowing if the problem will ever resolve and with those times of healing find that golden land. Through my work, I will continue to be an ear to listen to or a voice to speak for those who feel that they do not matter. Showing other young children that no matter the circumstance you are always able to overcome it and transform into the best version of yourself and finally understanding what "the land of the free" actually means.

"The land of the free, the golden land" is what I heard as a child from both my parents who migrated here in their teenage years. How could it be golden if I was always having to restrain my feelings to save myself from bigotry? Dealing with discrimination as a child had only made me resilient and more persistent to accomplish my goals. From a young age, I was told I should just go to beauty school or see if I could work as a waitress as any other career would not be achievable due to my social status and upbringing. Going through a life scare at the young age of six, I was in the hospital for weeks seeing many specialists throughout my time there. I was able to see how a hospital setting was and what they did for work. I admired the work from afar making it my goal to someday help other children in need. Helping make a positive difference in somebody's life. In my junior year of high school, I was able to accomplish my nurse aid class whilst running for senior class secretary. I passed my state board exam, which has now allowed me to work in geriatric care in a nursing home and begin my med aide class. In addition, at the end of my junior year, my peers voted me in too my class government. Through this position, I have been able to speak for my classmates who feel like their voices are not heard. Showcasing their opinions on how I can help make their senior year unforgettable. Leaving a positive impact and helping influence next year's student governing body. Through these experiences, I have learned that I am fully capable of being the young woman and professional that I was meant to be. I will become a nurse--knowing the pain and the overcoming of bigotry--who helps children and their families in those hard times of illness and not incapable of knowing if the problem will ever resolve and with those times of healing find that golden land. Through my work, I will continue to be an ear to listen to or a voice to speak for those who feel that they do not matter. Showing other young children that no matter the circumstance you are always able to overcome it and transform into the best version of yourself and finally understanding what "the land of the free" actually means.

"The land of the free, the golden land" is what I heard as a child from both my parents who migrated here in their teenage years. How could it be golden if I was always having to restrain my feelings to save myself from bigotry? Dealing with discrimination as a child had only made me resilient and more persistent to accomplish my goals. From a young age, I was told I should just go to beauty school or see if I could work as a waitress as any other career would not be achievable due to my social status and upbringing. Going through a life scare at the young age of six, I was in the hospital for weeks seeing many specialists throughout my time there. I was able to see how a hospital setting was and what they did for work. I admired the work from afar making it my goal to someday help other children in need. Helping make a positive difference in somebody's life. In my junior year of high school, I was able to accomplish my nurse aid class whilst running for senior class secretary. I passed my state board exam, which has now allowed me to work in geriatric care in a nursing home and begin my med aide class. In addition, at the end of my junior year, my peers voted me in too my class government. Through this position, I have been able to speak for my classmates who feel like their voices are not heard. Showcasing their opinions on how I can help make their senior year unforgettable. Leaving a positive impact and helping influence next year's student governing body. Through these experiences, I have learned that I am fully capable of being the young woman and professional that I was meant to be. I will become a nurse--knowing the pain and the overcoming of bigotry--who helps children and their families in those hard times of illness and not incapable of knowing if the problem will ever resolve and with those times of healing find that golden land. Through my work, I will continue to be an ear to listen to or a voice to speak for those who feel that they do not matter. Showing other young children that no matter the circumstance you are always able to overcome it and transform into the best version of yourself and finally understanding what "the land of the free" actually means.

"The land of the free, the golden land" is what I heard as a child from both my parents who migrated here in their teenage years. How could it be golden if I was always having to restrain my feelings to save myself from bigotry? Dealing with discrimination as a child had only made me resilient and more persistent to accomplish my goals. From a young age, I was told I should just go to beauty school or see if I could work as a waitress as any other career would not be achievable due to my social status and upbringing. Going through a life scare at the young age of six, I was in the hospital for weeks seeing many specialists throughout my time there. I was able to see how a hospital setting was and what they did for work. I admired the work from afar making it my goal to someday help other children in need. Helping make a positive difference in somebody's life. In my junior year of high school, I was able to accomplish my nurse aid class whilst running for senior class secretary. I passed my state board exam, which has now allowed me to work in geriatric care in a nursing home and begin my med aide class. In addition, at the end of my junior year, my peers voted me in too my class government. Through this position, I have been able to speak for my classmates who feel like their voices are not heard. Showcasing their opinions on how I can help make their senior year unforgettable. Leaving a positive impact and helping influence next year's student governing body. Through these experiences, I have learned that I am fully capable of being the young woman and professional that I was meant to be. I will become a nurse--knowing the pain and the overcoming of bigotry--who helps children and their families in those hard times of illness and not incapable of knowing if the problem will ever resolve and with those times of healing find that golden land. Through my work, I will continue to be an ear to listen to or a voice to speak for those who feel that they do not matter. Showing other young children that no matter the circumstance you are always able to overcome it and transform into the best version of yourself and finally understanding what "the land of the free" actually means.

"The land of the free, the golden land" is what I heard as a child from both my parents who migrated here in their teenage years. How could it be golden if I was always having to restrain my feelings to save myself from bigotry? Dealing with discrimination as a child had only made me resilient and more persistent to accomplish my goals. From a young age, I was told I should just go to beauty school or see if I could work as a waitress as any other career would not be achievable due to my social status and upbringing. Going through a life scare at the young age of six, I was in the hospital for weeks seeing many specialists throughout my time there. I was able to see how a hospital setting was and what they did for work. I admired the work from afar making it my goal to someday help other children in need. Helping make a positive difference in somebody's life. In my junior year of high school, I was able to accomplish my nurse aid class whilst running for senior class secretary. I passed my state board exam, which has now allowed me to work in geriatric care in a nursing home and begin my med aide class. In addition, at the end of my junior year, my peers voted me in too my class government. Through this position, I have been able to speak for my classmates who feel like their voices are not heard. Showcasing their opinions on how I can help make their senior year unforgettable. Leaving a positive impact and helping influence next year's student governing body. Through these experiences, I have learned that I am fully capable of being the young woman and professional that I was meant to be. I will become a nurse--knowing the pain and the overcoming of bigotry--who helps children and their families in those hard times of illness and not incapable of knowing if the problem will ever resolve and with those times of healing find that golden land. Through my work, I will continue to be an ear to listen to or a voice to speak for those who feel that they do not matter. Showing other young children that no matter the circumstance you are always able to overcome it and transform into the best version of yourself and finally understanding what "the land of the free" actually means.

"The land of the free, the golden land" is what I heard as a child from both my parents who migrated here in their teenage years. How could it be golden if I was always having to restrain my feelings to save myself from bigotry? Dealing with discrimination as a child had only made me resilient and more persistent to accomplish my goals. From a young age, I was told I should just go to beauty school or see if I could work as a waitress as any other career would not be achievable due to my social status and upbringing. Going through a life scare at the young age of six, I was in the hospital for weeks seeing many specialists throughout my time there. I was able to see how a hospital setting was and what they did for work. I admired the work from afar making it my goal to someday help other children in need. Helping make a positive difference in somebody's life. In my junior year of high school, I was able to accomplish my nurse aid class whilst running for senior class secretary. I passed my state board exam, which has now allowed me to work in geriatric care in a nursing home and begin my med aide class. In addition, at the end of my junior year, my peers voted me in too my class government. Through this position, I have been able to speak for my classmates who feel like their voices are not heard. Showcasing their opinions on how I can help make their senior year unforgettable. Leaving a positive impact and helping influence next year's student governing body. Through these experiences, I have learned that I am fully capable of being the young woman and professional that I was meant to be. I will become a nurse--knowing the pain and the overcoming of bigotry--who helps children and their families in those hard times of illness and not incapable of knowing if the problem will ever resolve and with those times of healing find that golden land. Through my work, I will continue to be an ear to listen to or a voice to speak for those who feel that they do not matter. Showing other young children that no matter the circumstance you are always able to overcome it and transform into the best version of yourself and finally understanding what "the land of the free" actually means.

"The land of the free, the golden land" is what I heard as a child from both my parents who migrated here in their teenage years. How could it be golden if I was always having to restrain my feelings to save myself from bigotry? Dealing with discrimination as a child had only made me resilient and more persistent to accomplish my goals. From a young age, I was told I should just go to beauty school or see if I could work as a waitress as any other career would not be achievable due to my social status and upbringing. Going through a life scare at the young age of six, I was in the hospital for weeks seeing many specialists throughout my time there. I was able to see how a hospital setting was and what they did for work. I admired the work from afar making it my goal to someday help other children in need. Helping make a positive difference in somebody's life. In my junior year of high school, I was able to accomplish my nurse aid class whilst running for senior class secretary. I passed my state board exam, which has now allowed me to work in geriatric care in a nursing home and begin my med aide class. In addition, at the end of my junior year, my peers voted me in too my class government. Through this position, I have been able to speak for my classmates who feel like their voices are not heard. Showcasing their opinions on how I can help make their senior year unforgettable. Leaving a positive impact and helping influence next year's student governing body. Through these experiences, I have learned that I am fully capable of being the young woman and professional that I was meant to be. I will become a nurse--knowing the pain and the overcoming of bigotry--who helps children and their families in those hard times of illness and not incapable of knowing if the problem will ever resolve and with those times of healing find that golden land. Through my work, I will continue to be an ear to listen to or a voice to speak for those who feel that they do not matter. Showing other young children that no matter the circumstance you are always able to overcome it and transform into the best version of yourself and finally understanding what "the land of the free" actually means.

"The land of the free, the golden land" is what I heard as a child from both my parents who migrated here in their teenage years. How could it be golden if I was always having to restrain my feelings to save myself from bigotry? Dealing with discrimination as a child had only made me resilient and more persistent to accomplish my goals. From a young age, I was told I should just go to beauty school or see if I could work as a waitress as any other career would not be achievable due to my social status and upbringing. Going through a life scare at the young age of six, I was in the hospital for weeks seeing many specialists throughout my time there. I was able to see how a hospital setting was and what they did for work. I admired the work from afar making it my goal to someday help other children in need. Helping make a positive difference in somebody's life. In my junior year of high school, I was able to accomplish my nurse aid class whilst running for senior class secretary. I passed my state board exam, which has now allowed me to work in geriatric care in a nursing home and begin my med aide class. In addition, at the end of my junior year, my peers voted me in too my class government. Through this position, I have been able to speak for my classmates who feel like their voices are not heard. Showcasing their opinions on how I can help make their senior year unforgettable. Leaving a positive impact and helping influence next year's student governing body. Through these experiences, I have learned that I am fully capable of being the young woman and professional that I was meant to be. I will become a nurse--knowing the pain and the overcoming of bigotry--who helps children and their families in those hard times of illness and not incapable of knowing if the problem will ever resolve and with those times of healing find that golden land. Through my work, I will continue to be an ear to listen to or a voice to speak for those who feel that they do not matter. Showing other young children that no matter the circumstance you are always able to overcome it and transform into the best version of yourself and finally understanding what "the land of the free" actually means.

"The land of the free, the golden land" is what I heard as a child from both my parents who migrated here in their teenage years. How could it be golden if I was always having to restrain my feelings to save myself from bigotry? Dealing with discrimination as a child had only made me resilient and more persistent to accomplish my goals. From a young age, I was told I should just go to beauty school or see if I could work as a waitress as any other career would not be achievable due to my social status and upbringing. Going through a life scare at the young age of six, I was in the hospital for weeks seeing many specialists throughout my time there. I was able to see how a hospital setting was and what they did for work. I admired the work from afar making it my goal to someday help other children in need. Helping make a positive difference in somebody's life. In my junior year of high school, I was able to accomplish my nurse aid class whilst running for senior class secretary. I passed my state board exam, which has now allowed me to work in geriatric care in a nursing home and begin my med aide class. In addition, at the end of my junior year, my peers voted me in too my class government. Through this position, I have been able to speak for my classmates who feel like their voices are not heard. Showcasing their opinions on how I can help make their senior year unforgettable. Leaving a positive impact and helping influence next year's student governing body. Through these experiences, I have learned that I am fully capable of being the young woman and professional that I was meant to be. I will become a nurse--knowing the pain and the overcoming of bigotry--who helps children and their families in those hard times of illness and not incapable of knowing if the problem will ever resolve and with those times of healing find that golden land. Through my work, I will continue to be an ear to listen to or a voice to speak for those who feel that they do not matter. Showing other young children that no matter the circumstance you are always able to overcome it and transform into the best version of yourself and finally understand what "the land of the free" actually means.

"The land of the free, the golden land" is what I heard as a child from both my parents who migrated here in their teenage years. How could it be golden if I was always having to restrain my feelings to save myself from bigotry? Dealing with discrimination as a child had only made me resilient and more persistent to accomplish my goals. From a young age, I was told I should just go to beauty school or see if I could work as a waitress as any other career would not be achievable due to my social status and upbringing. Going through a life scare at the young age of six, I was in the hospital for weeks seeing many specialists throughout my time there. I was able to see how a hospital setting was and what they did for work. I admired the work from afar making it my goal to someday help other children in need. Helping make a positive difference in somebody's life. In my junior year of high school, I was able to accomplish my nurse aid class whilst running for senior class secretary. I passed my state board exam, which has now allowed me to work in geriatric care in a nursing home and begin my med aide class. In addition, at the end of my junior year, my peers voted me in too my class government. Through this position, I have been able to speak for my classmates who feel like their voices are not heard. Showcasing their opinions on how I can help make their senior year unforgettable. Leaving a positive impact and helping influence next year's student governing body. Through these experiences, I have learned that I am fully capable of being the young woman and professional that I was meant to be. I will become a nurse--knowing the pain and the overcoming of bigotry--who helps children and their families in those hard times of illness and not incapable of knowing if the problem will ever resolve and with those times of healing find that golden land. Through my work, I will continue to be an ear to listen to or a voice to speak for those who feel that they do not matter. Showing other young children that no matter the circumstance you are always able to overcome it and transform into the best version of yourself and finally understanding what "the land of the free" actually means.

I lock myself into my room, my eyes are starting to fill with tears. Right next to my name Dulce Montanez there's a grade letter of 81% Why couldn't I be better I thought. I was only in middle school. Feeling like a failure at such a young age of 13. Mental Health can seem so simple, yet be so complicated, especially for those growing up in a traditional Latin household, where Hispanics believe mental health doesn’t exist. We choose to be happy, sad, or upset. No one can make that choice other than the one affected. Although this scenario is true for most Hispanics, as an older sister and my family's first-generational child, this unspoken law has slowly broken me down. I constantly tried every sport just to get my mind off school, work, and my home life, never thinking that mental health could affect me. However, I am not excluded. Constantly being ridiculed to be better. Be what my parents couldn't be. To live the American Dream, but why is the American Dream so difficult to achieve. What is the definition of the American Dream? My parents have always supported me in trying every support I set my mind into. That being tae-kwon-do, to then wrestling, to setting up the ball in volleyball, soccer, and basketball. Playing each of these sports has taught me how to get back up and keep trying as my game isn't over. "The score didn't define the game" my coach would tell me after a bad match "what defines it is the effort you put out on the field, court, or mat and what you plan on correcting. How you plan on making yourself and your team better" Following what my coaches have told me, I plan on making that my American Dream. I want to help others who also feel like they are being diminished, whose thoughts are shut down as they feel like they cannot meet the expectations they were born to meet. Who hasn’t had someone like my coach to tell them it isn't over. It's over until you stop putting effort. I will make a difference in as many lives as possible, listening to and helping others, showing them that they can always be compassionate and persevere through the toughest battles. I want to become A registered nurse. I believe that everyone who I may come in contact with will get the empathy and compassion they may need. That no matter how dire the situation you can always persevere through it.

I lock myself into my room, my eyes are starting to fill with tears. Upset I received a B letter grade on a test. I was only in middle school. Feeling like a failure at such a young age of 13. Mental Health can seem so simple, yet be so complicated, especially for those growing up in a traditional Latin household, where Hispanics believe mental health doesn’t exist. We choose to be happy, sad, or upset. No one can make that choice other than the one affected. Although this scenario is true for most Hispanics, as an older sister and my family's first-generational child, this unspoken law has slowly broken me down. I constantly tried every sport just to get my mind off school, work, and my home life, never thinking that mental health could affect me. However, I am not excluded. Constantly being ridiculed to be better. Be what my parents couldn't be. To live the American Dream, but why is the American Dream so difficult to achieve. What is the definition of the American Dream? My parents have always supported me in trying every support I set my mind into. That being tae-kwon-do, to then wrestling, to setting up the ball in volleyball, soccer, and basketball. Playing each of these sports has taught me how to get back up and keep trying as my game isn't over. "The score didn't define the game" my coach would tell me after a bad match "what defines it is the effort you put out on the field, court, or mat and what you plan on correcting. How you plan on making yourself and your team better" Following what my coaches have told me, I plan on making that my American Dream. I want to help others who also feel like they are being diminished, whose thoughts are shut down as they feel like they cannot meet the expectations they were born to meet. Who hasn’t had someone like my coach to tell them it isn't over. It's over until you stop putting effort. I will make a difference in as many lives as possible, listening to and helping others, showing them that they can always be compassionate and persevere through the toughest battles. I want to become A registered nurse. I believe that everyone who I may come in contact with will get the empathy and compassion they may need. That no matter how dire the situation you can always persevere through it.

I lock myself into my room, my eyes are starting to fill with tears. Upset I received a B letter grade on a test. I was only in middle school. Feeling like a failure at such a young age of 13. Mental Health can seem so simple, yet be so complicated, especially for those growing up in a traditional Latin household, where Hispanics believe mental health doesn’t exist. We choose to be happy, sad, or upset. No one can make that choice other than the one affected. Although this scenario is true for most Hispanics, as an older sister and my family's first-generational child, this unspoken law has slowly broken me down. I constantly tried every sport just to get my mind off school, work, and my home life, never thinking that mental health could affect me. However, I am not excluded. Constantly being ridiculed to be better. Be what my parents couldn't be. To live the American Dream, but why is the American Dream so difficult to achieve. What is the definition of the American Dream? My parents have always supported me in trying every support I set my mind into. That being tae-kwon-do, to then wrestling, to setting up the ball in volleyball, soccer, and basketball. Playing each of these sports has taught me how to get back up and keep trying as my game isn't over. "The score didn't define the game" my coach would tell me after a bad match "what defines it is the effort you put out on the field, court, or mat and what you plan on correcting. How you plan on making yourself and your team better" Following what my coaches have told me, I plan on making that my American Dream. I want to help others who also feel like they are being diminished, whose thoughts are shut down as they feel like they cannot meet the expectations they were born to meet. Who hasn’t had someone like my coach to tell them it isn't over. It's over until you stop putting effort. I will make a difference in as many lives as possible, listening to and helping others, showing them that they can always be compassionate and persevere through the toughest battles. I want to become A registered nurse. I believe that everyone who I may come in contact with will get the empathy and compassion they may need. That no matter how dire the situation you can always persevere through it.

I lock myself into my room, my eyes are starting to fill with tears. Upset I received a B letter grade on a test. I was only in middle school. Feeling like a failure at such a young age of 13. Mental Health can seem so simple, yet be so complicated, especially for those growing up in a traditional Latin household, where Hispanics believe mental health doesn’t exist. We choose to be happy, sad, or upset. No one can make that choice other than the one affected. Although this scenario is true for most Hispanics, as an older sister and my family's first-generational child, this unspoken law has slowly broken me down. I constantly tried every sport just to get my mind off school, work, and my home life, never thinking that mental health could affect me. However, I am not excluded. Constantly being ridiculed to be better. Be what my parents couldn't be. To live the American Dream, but why is the American Dream so difficult to achieve. What is the definition of the American Dream? My parents always supporting me in trying every support I set my mind into. That being tae-kwon-do, to then wrestling, to setting up the ball in volleyball, soccer, and basketball. Playing each of these sports has taught me how to get back up and keep trying as my game isn't over. "The score didn't define the game" my coach would tell me after a bad match "what defines it is the effort you put out on the field, court, or mat and what you plan on correcting. How you plan on making yourself and your team better" Following what my coaches have told me, I plan on making that my American Dream. I want to help others who also feel like they are being diminished, whose thoughts are shut down as they feel like they cannot meet the expectations they were born to meet. Who hasn’t had someone like my coach to tell them it isn't over. It's over until you stop putting effort. I will make a difference in as many lives as possible, listening to and helping others, showing them that they can always be compassionate and persevere through the toughest battles. I want to become A registered nurse. I believe that everyone who I may come in contact with will get the empathy and compassion they may need. That no matter how dire the situation you can always persevere through it.

I lock myself into my room, my eyes are starting to fill with tears. Upset I received a B letter grade on a test. I was only in middle school. Feeling like a failure at such a young age of 13. Mental Health can seem so simple, yet be so complicated, especially for those growing up in a traditional Latin household, where Hispanics believe mental health doesn’t exist. We choose to be happy, sad, or upset. No one can make that choice other than the one affected. Although this scenario is true for most Hispanics, as an older sister and my family's first-generational child, this unspoken law has slowly broken me down. I constantly tried every sport just to get my mind off school, work, and my home life, never thinking that mental health could affect me. However, I am not excluded. Constantly being ridiculed to be better. Be what my parents couldn't be. To live the American Dream, but why is the American Dream so difficult to achieve. What is the definition of the American Dream? My parents have always supported me in trying every support I set my mind into. That being tae-kwon-do, to then wrestling, to setting up the ball in volleyball, soccer, and basketball. Playing each of these sports has taught me how to get back up and keep trying as my game isn't over. "The score didn't define the game" my coach would tell me after a bad match "what defines it is the effort you put out on the field, court, or mat and what you plan on correcting. How you plan on making yourself and your team better" Following what my coaches have told me, I plan on making that my American Dream. I want to help others who also feel like they are being diminished, whose thoughts are shut down as they feel like they cannot meet the expectations they were born to meet. Who hasn’t had someone like my coach to tell them it isn't over. It's over until you stop putting effort. I will make a difference in as many lives as possible, listening to and helping others, showing them that they can always be compassionate and persevere through the toughest battles. I want to become A registered nurse. I believe that everyone who I may come in contact with will get the empathy and compassion they may need. That no matter how dire the situation you can always persevere through it.

I lock myself into my room, my eyes are starting to fill with tears. Upset I received a B letter grade on a test. I was only in middle school. Feeling like a failure at such a young age of 13. Mental Health can seem so simple, yet be so complicated, especially for those growing up in a traditional Latin household, where Hispanics believe mental health doesn’t exist. We choose to be happy, sad, or upset. No one can make that choice other than the one affected. Although this scenario is true for most Hispanics, as an older sister and my family's first-generational child, this unspoken law has slowly broken me down. I constantly tried every sport just to get my mind off school, work, and my home life, never thinking that mental health could affect me. However, I am not excluded. Constantly being ridiculed to be better. Be what my parents couldn't be. To live the American Dream, but why is the American Dream so difficult to achieve. What is the definition of the American Dream? My parents have always supported me in trying every support I set my mind into. That being tae-kwon-do, to then wrestling, to setting up the ball in volleyball, soccer, and basketball. Playing each of these sports has taught me how to get back up and keep trying as my game isn't over. "The score didn't define the game" my coach would tell me after a bad match "what defines it is the effort you put out on the field, court, or mat and what you plan on correcting. How you plan on making yourself and your team better" Following what my coaches have told me, I plan on making that my American Dream. I want to help others who also feel like they are being diminished, whose thoughts are shut down as they feel like they cannot meet the expectations they were born to meet. Who hasn’t had someone like my coach to tell them it isn't over. It's over until you stop putting effort. I will make a difference in as many lives as possible, listening to and helping others, showing them that they can always be compassionate and persevere through the toughest battles. I want to become A registered nurse. I believe that everyone who I may come in contact with will get the empathy and compassion they may need. That no matter how dire the situation you can always persevere through it.

My back to school tip is to carry a snack in your back pack. As the school day goes you may realize how your stomach begins to growl or even how you to start film sleepy. A small snack can always helps

I lock myself into my room, my eyes are starting to fill with tears. Upset I received a B letter grade on a test. I was only in middle school. Feeling like a failure at such a young age of 13. Mental Health can seem so simple, yet be so complicated, especially for those growing up in a traditional Latin household, where Hispanics believe mental health doesn’t exist. We choose to be happy, sad, or upset. No one can make that choice other than the one affected. Although this scenario is true for most Hispanics, as an older sister and my family's first-generational child, this unspoken law has slowly broken me down. I constantly tried every sport just to get my mind off school, work, and my home life, never thinking that mental health could affect me. However, I am not excluded. Constantly being ridiculed to be better. Be what my parents couldn't be. To live the American Dream, but why is the American Dream so difficult to achieve. What is the definition of the American Dream. My parents have always supported me in trying every support I set my mind into. That being tae-kwon-do, to then wrestling, to setting up the ball in volleyball, soccer, and basketball. Playing each of these sports has taught me how to get back up and keep trying as my game isn't over. "The score didn't define the game" my coach would tell me after a bad match "what does define it is the effort you put out on the field, court, or mat and what you plan on correcting. How you plan on making yourself and your team better" Following what my coaches have told me, I plan on making that my American Dream. I want to help others who also feel like they are being diminished, whose thoughts are shut down as they feel like they cannot meet the expectations they were born to meet. Who hasn't had someone like my coach to tell them it isn't over. It's over until you stop putting out effort. I will make a difference in as many lives as possible, listening to and helping others, showing them that they can always be compassionate and persevere through the toughest battles. I want to become A registered Nurse. I believe that everyone who I may come in contact with will get the empathy and compassion they may need. That no matter how dire the situation you can always persevere through it.

Mental Health can seem so simple, yet be so complicated, especially for those growing up in a traditional Latin household, where Hispanics believe mental health doesn’t exist. Not being excluded from this has made me persevere and be more compassionate. I want to further my career as a Registered Nurse where I can be both those things and help others overcome those invisible obstacles.