Music has played a very important role during all my life but during the three years I’ve been in high school, especially during classes and breaks. It has helped me in several areas of my life, but most importantly, it has had a major impact on two aspects: staying focused and managing stress, this is the two big problems that I always had and to be honest I never found a way to improve it. First, music has helped me with distractions. In class, I often face many distractions, such as friends talking, people walking by, or the most common one—my phone. These distractions make it harder for me to concentrate and learn. However, when I listen to music, I feel like it blocks out everything around me. Little by little, it helps me focus until I reach a point where I can complete all my work without problems. Music keeps me from paying attention to what others are doing, and instead helps me concentrate on just one task. That moment becomes my opportunity to relax and give my full attention to my schoolwork. The second way music has affected me is by helping me manage stress. Over the past few years, I’ve faced different challenges, both at school and in my personal life, and many of those situations have caused me a lot of stress. When I’m stressed, it feels like my mind shuts down and I can’t think clearly. Music helps calm my thoughts. It gives me a break from the pressure I’m feeling and allows me to relax. After listening to music, I feel like I can breathe again and return to my tasks with a clearer mind. Another way music has helped me during high school is with memorization. Whether I’m studying for a test or working on an assignment, music makes it easier for me to remember information. It creates a rhythm and flow that helps things stick in my memory better than silence ever could. In conclusion, music has had a powerful impact on my high school experience. It’s helped me stay focused, manage stress, and even improve my memory. But more than that, music reminds me of who I am and helps me connect with my emotions. It has been a source of comfort, motivation, and strength during my high school years, and I know it will continue to be a part of my life in the future.

Pursuing higher education has always been a dream of mine because I believe it opens doors to countless opportunities and provides a pathway to a better future. As a first-generation student, I want to set an example for my family and community, showing that it's possible to achieve great things through dedication and hard work. The journey to college has been filled with challenges, but it has also been incredibly rewarding. To prepare myself for college, I've taken several steps. First and foremost, I've focused on excelling academically. This means taking challenging courses throughout high school, such as Advanced Placement (AP) classes, to not only boost my GPA but also to prepare myself for the rigorous coursework I will encounter in college. Maintaining good grades has been a priority, and I have dedicated countless hours to studying, completing assignments, and seeking help when needed. In addition to my academic efforts, I've sought out resources and support systems to ensure I stay on track. For example, I've participated in tutoring programs to strengthen my understanding of difficult subjects. Mentoring programs have also been invaluable, as they provide guidance from individuals who have successfully navigated the college application process. Researching colleges and understanding the application process has been another critical aspect of my preparation. I've spent time exploring different universities, learning about their programs, campus life, and the opportunities they offer. This research has helped me identify schools that align with my interests and goals. Additionally, I've attended college fairs, information sessions, and campus tours to get a firsthand look at what each institution has to offer. Financial considerations have also played a significant role in my preparation. As a first-generation student, I understand the importance of making higher education affordable. I've been proactive in seeking out scholarships and financial aid opportunities. This has involved writing essays, gathering recommendation letters, and submitting applications well before deadlines. Understanding the financial aid process has been crucial in ensuring that I can attend college without placing an undue burden on my family. Extracurricular activities have been a vital part of my high school experience and preparation for college. Participating in clubs, sports, and volunteer work has helped me develop essential skills such as leadership, teamwork, and time management. For example, being a member of the student council has taught me how to organize events, work collaboratively with peers, and communicate effectively. These experiences have not only enriched my high school years but have also prepared me for the diverse and dynamic environment of college life. Balancing academics and extracurricular activities has required strong time management skills. I've learned to prioritize tasks, set goals, and stay organized. This has been essential in ensuring that I can excel in both areas without feeling overwhelmed. Time management will continue to be a valuable skill as I transition to college, where I will need to juggle coursework, social activities, and potentially part-time work. In addition to these preparations, I've also focused on personal growth and development. Building resilience and a strong work ethic has been crucial in overcoming the obstacles I've faced as a first-generation student. I've learned to stay motivated, even when things get tough, and to seek out support when needed. This mindset will be invaluable as I navigate the challenges and opportunities that college will bring. In conclusion, pursuing higher education is a goal that I am deeply committed to. As a first-generation student, I have taken numerous steps to prepare myself for this journey. From excelling academically and seeking out support systems to researching colleges and participating in extracurricular activities

Moving from Mexico to the United States without knowing English was one of the most challenging experiences of my life. the transition was not only a cultural shock but also a significant linguistic barrier that I had to overcome. this experience played a crucial role in shaping who I am today and inspired me to pursue higher education. when I first arrived in the United States, I felt lost and overwhelmed. every day was a struggle to understand and communicate un a language that was entirely foreign to me. simple tasks like asking for directions, ordering food, or even understanding my teachers in school became daunting challenges. I often felt isolated and frustated because I couldn't express myself or understand others. however, this difficulty also ignited a determination within me to learn and adapt. school was particularly tough because I was placed in classes where English was the primary language of instruction. I remember sitting in classrooms, unable to grasp what was being taught, and feeling like I was falling behind my peers. But instead of giving up, I used this as motivation to work harder. I spent countless hours after school with English tutors and used every resource available to me, including books, online courses, and language learning apps. Slowly but surely, I began to understand and speak English better. One of the most significant sources of support during this time was my Special Education program. The teachers and staff were incredibly patient and understanding. They provided me with individualized attention and tailored learning plans that catered to my unique needs. Their encouragement and belief in my potential were instrumental in my progress. They didn't just teach me English; they taught me resilience, perseverance, and the importance of never giving up. I was particularly inspired by one of my Special Education teachers, Mrs. Johnson. She went above and beyond to make sure I felt included and capable. She would spend extra time after school helping me with my homework and explaining concepts in a way that I could understand. Her dedication and kindness made a profound impact on me. She showed me that with the right support and effort, I could overcome any obstacle. This experience of overcoming the language barrier and adapting to a new culture taught me valuable life lessons. It taught me the importance of hard work, determination, and the power of education. It also made me realize the significance of having a support system and how much of a difference it can make in someone's life. These lessons have stayed with me and continue to motivate me in my pursuit of higher education. I am now more determined than ever to succeed in my academic endeavors. I want to continue learning and growing, and I hope to one day give back to the community that supported me during my most challenging times. My goal is to become an educator so that I can help other students who might be facing similar difficulties. I want to be that source of support and inspiration for someone else, just like Mrs. Johnson was for me. In conclusion, moving from Mexico to the United States without knowing English was a significant challenge that played a crucial role in my life. It taught me resilience, perseverance, and the importance of education. The support and inspiration I received from my Special Education program were instrumental in my journey, and they continue to motivate me to pursue higher education and achieve my goals.