I chose to major in Political Science because I’ve always been interested in government, policies, and their impact on society. I want to understand why the government exists as it does and apply this knowledge to a future law degree. I can remember when this interest started. It was my 5th grade year, and that year Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump were running for president. In my house, the month of November became evenings filled with my dad and I turning on the news the minute we got home from school and work to watch the debates, polls, and commentary about the presidential election. Our dinner table discussions, which once included a rundown of our days, turned into heated debates about the candidates and their policies, and I loved every second of it. Dinner parties at my parents' friends' houses consisted of me joining all of the dads, listening to them talk about the economy and immigration policies, and eventually becoming knowledgeable enough to join the conversations. It was at that point in my life that I realized that this was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. Which is why my primary career goal is to become a lawyer. Through this path, I hope to achieve my goal of creating real change in the world. Another reason that I am so passionate about going into law is because of something I experienced back in 2020. At the height of the pandemic, my mother was diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer. Obviously, a huge shock to an eighth grader who was just getting used to online school. What was supposed to be an extended spring break turned into one of the most difficult periods of my life. As a freshman in high school, my biggest worries should’ve been choosing my classes, finishing Drivers Ed to get my permit, and wondering how to get used to a completely different environment. Instead, it was filled with taking care of my little sister while my dad drove my mom to the hospital for her weekly chemo treatments or trying to overcompensate and act like everything was completely fine in front of my sister, while also trying to balance two AP classes and just high school in general, which, not to mention, was all online. What helped me through it was having my friends and teachers to rely on, both of whom were incredibly understanding of my situation. Without them, I wouldn't be who I am today. It was because of this experience that I solidified my decision to become a lawyer, as I never wanted anyone else to feel as helpless as I did during that time. It was also during this time that I realized how important service is, as my family and I were entirely indebted to our friends and family who would stop by to drop off food and a warm hug. Those days that seemed like they would never end were just a little bit easier when my aunt would stop by with my favorite meal. I knew that we were incredibly lucky to have a community around us that helped us when we needed it, which is why I decided to give back to the community what they had given us: a helping hand. My mother and I visited a nearby homeless shelter and had the opportunity to serve food for those who needed it the most. It was one of the most fulfilling moments of my life and made me appreciate the privileges I have.