I was born and raised in Kyrgyzstan, a country in Central Asia where 94% of the land is covered by breathtaking mountains. These mountains have shaped not only the geography of my homeland but also my character. Much like Malgorzata “Maggie” Kwiecien, I have had to climb my own mountains - both literal and figurative - to pursue my dreams and overcome challenges. Growing up in a low-income family, my dream of studying in the United States seemed distant and unattainable after I graduated from high school. Financial constraints meant that I had to put my education on hold for five years. However, I firmly believe that dreams have no expiration date. Through perseverance, hard work, and a deep belief in myself, I am now living my dream of studying in the U.S. as a first-generation international student. Moving here alone, without a support system, was daunting, but it has also been the most transformative journey of my life. This experience resonates deeply with Maggie’s story of bravery and determination. Before coming to the U.S., I built my career in software development in Kyrgyzstan. My passion for engineering aligns with Maggie’s professional dedication. I am currently pursuing a degree in Computer Science and aspire to transfer to Columbia University. For a young woman from Central Asia, studying abroad and charting this path is a monumental achievement. Like Maggie, I am intellectually curious and driven to master whatever I set my mind to, whether it’s coding a complex algorithm, navigating a new culture, or striving for academic excellence. Maggie’s love for physical challenges also inspires me, as sports are an integral part of my life. I am a passionate runner, and my connection to the mountains goes beyond admiration - they are my sanctuary and my source of strength. I hike, climb, and find peace in the vast, rugged terrain of my homeland, which has taught me resilience and endurance. Every run I take reminds me of the beauty of pushing through barriers, just as Maggie did in her adventures as a skier, climber, and diver. On a personal level, I admire Maggie’s boldness and her zest for life. Her commitment to growth - both physical and intellectual - is a trait I strive to embody daily. Like her, I am always eager to learn, debate, and explore. My journey is fueled by the same thirst for knowledge and passion for new experiences. Whether it’s tackling a challenging class, exploring the U.S., or diving into a new sport, I am driven by a curiosity that mirrors Maggie’s. Moving to the United States has been a test of my courage and adaptability. I had to leave behind my family, friends, and the familiarity of my culture to pursue my education. The transition was not easy, but it has taught me to embrace uncertainty and find strength in challenges. Maggie’s story gives me hope and reinforces my belief that bravery, determination, and an unrelenting spirit can lead to extraordinary achievements. Maggie’s life is a powerful testament to the strength of women who dare to dream and push boundaries, regardless of the obstacles they face. I am honored to share similarities with her in our passion for engineering, love for physical and intellectual challenges, and determination to forge new paths. This scholarship would not only help me continue my education but also inspire me to honor Maggie’s legacy by striving for excellence in all that I do.