Billie Eilish's music has been a significant part of my life, especially during my formative years. Growing up, her songs provided a sense of connection and understanding, particularly when it came to the mental health struggles that she openly shares. Three of her songs—"Everything I Wanted," "Therefore I Am," and "Wildflower"—resonate with me deeply, each capturing different aspects of my journey and emotions. "Everything I Wanted" speaks to the pressure of expectations and the feeling of isolation that can accompany success. The haunting melody and introspective lyrics reflect the internal struggles that many people, including myself, face when trying to balance personal desires with external expectations. As someone who has often felt the weight of being the first in my family to attend graduate school, this song resonates with me on a profound level. It reminds me of the importance of staying grounded and finding comfort in the support of loved ones, even when the world feels overwhelming. Growing up, I often felt a disconnect between my aspirations and the reality around me, and this song encapsulates that struggle in a way that feels deeply personal. "Therefore I Am" is a powerful anthem of self-assertion and confidence. The unapologetic tone and message of not allowing others to define your worth resonate with me as I navigate my academic and personal journey. In a world where it’s easy to feel judged or misunderstood, especially as a young person finding their way, this song serves as a reminder to stay true to myself and not let the opinions of others dictate my path. It empowers me to stand tall and embrace my individuality, which is essential as I carve out my own identity in both my studies and future career. Finally, "Wildflower" captures the essence of resilience and growth. Although it’s not as widely known as some of her other songs, its lyrics about blooming in adversity and finding beauty in imperfection deeply resonate with my journey as a first-generation graduate student. The song symbolizes hope and the idea that, even in challenging circumstances, it’s possible to thrive and create something beautiful. This message of resilience is something I hold close as I pursue my goals, reminding me that every challenge is an opportunity to grow and evolve. Billie Eilish’s music has been a constant companion throughout my life, resonating with me in moments of both struggle and triumph. Her openness about mental health and the challenges she’s faced made me feel less alone as a young person navigating similar experiences. These songs remind me to stay true to myself, embrace my journey with all its ups and downs, and continue striving toward my goals with confidence and resilience.

As the first member of my family to attend graduate school, I carry the weight of both pride and challenge. My grandparents emigrated from the Philippines in pursuit of a better life, and my mother, despite being the first in her family to earn a Bachelor's degree in the U.S., faced significant obstacles due to cultural and systemic barriers. Growing up, I watched her navigate these challenges with resilience, but I also witnessed the limitations that a lack of familial guidance in higher education can impose. While my mother has been an unwavering source of support, the path I’m on is largely uncharted territory for my family, making the navigation of higher education particularly challenging. The lack of direct guidance and understanding from my family has been difficult, but it has also fueled my determination to succeed. My journey through academia has been shaped by a need to be resourceful and independent. I have had to seek out mentors, rely on my resilience, and learn to advocate for myself in ways that my family never had the opportunity to teach me. These experiences have not only shaped my academic journey but have also deepened my commitment to my studies in exercise and sports nutrition. I am driven to succeed not only for myself but also to pave the way for others like me who may feel like outsiders in academia. I want to be a role model, showing that it is possible to succeed even when the path is unclear. Being a first-generation graduate student has profoundly influenced my future goals. I am deeply committed to giving back to communities like mine by providing the knowledge and resources that are often inaccessible to first-generation students and immigrants. I hope to use my education to bridge gaps in health and wellness, particularly within underrepresented communities, and to empower individuals to lead healthier lives. The struggles I have faced have instilled in me a deep sense of empathy and a desire to make a meaningful impact on the lives of others. Pursuing a career as a Registered Dietitian aligns perfectly with these goals. By studying nutrition, I am equipping myself with the tools needed to make a tangible difference in people's lives, especially in communities that are often overlooked. Becoming a Registered Dietitian will allow me to combine my passion for health with my commitment to serving others, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background, has access to the knowledge and support needed to achieve optimal well-being. This scholarship will be instrumental in helping me achieve this vision, allowing me to focus on my studies and continue my journey with the support and confidence needed to succeed.