Community service is often seen as a mere obligation, a way to rack up volunteer hours, but for me, it has become a transformative force that has reshaped my views and aspirations. My experiences in various clubs throughout high school—such as Key Club, Interact Club, AVID, and the Oil Technology Academy—have not only provided me with sentimental value but also served as a vital bridge connecting me to my community. These organizations have instilled in me a sense of responsibility and a deep understanding of the impact that collective action can bring. One of the most significant moments in my journey came when I participated in a food drive at St. Mary's Church. This experience was more than just a simple act of service; it was a profound awakening. I met diverse individuals—both those who were receiving support and those who were there to provide it. Listening to their stories expanded my worldview and emphasized the importance of compassion and empathy. Such interactions have fueled my desire to engage deeply with my community, making me realize that service goes beyond mere tasks; it’s about forming connections and understanding the needs of others. Through my involvement in these clubs, I have come to appreciate the ethos behind the Interact Club’s mantra of “Service Above Self.” This guiding principle has influenced how I perceive my role within my community and has reinforced my belief that every small act of kindness contributes to a larger positive change. I have discovered that community service is not just about giving; it’s also about receiving knowledge, experiences, and a sense of purpose. Building this network of relationships has proven invaluable, especially as I look toward my future college goals. My ambition to become a dentist isn’t merely a career choice; it’s a calling to serve my community in a profession that directly impacts lives. As I prepare to enter this competitive field, my community engagement becomes crucial. I've realized that having a strong support network of mentors, peers, and community members will be essential in navigating the challenges and intricacies of dental school and beyond. In addition to preparatory knowledge, my participation in community service has cultivated qualities such as resilience, teamwork, and leadership—traits that I believe will be imperative to my success in the healthcare field. Being involved in meaningful initiatives has equipped me with a firsthand understanding of the various socio-economic factors affecting health and well-being. This insight will allow me to be a more empathetic and effective practitioner. Ultimately, community service has illuminated a path for me that intertwines personal fulfillment with professional ambition. As I transition into college, I aim to remain as involved in community service as I am now. I want to deepen my connections and contribute positively to those around me, all while pursuing my goal of becoming a dentist. I am committed to advocating for community health and ensuring that everyone has access to quality dental care. In conclusion, the journey of community service has redefined my purpose, strengthened my college ambitions, and instilled in me a lifelong commitment to service. Through these experiences, I have learned that investing in others is one of the most significant investments I can make in myself.

Growing up, my parents instilled in me the unwavering belief that higher education is the fundamental key to achieving success, a principle that I wholeheartedly embrace. Neither of my parents had the opportunity to pursue a college education. My mother completed high school before immigrating to seek a better life, while my father began college in Mexico but left in search of promising opportunities in the US, only to discover that the reality was much more challenging. I am steadfast in my determination to make my parents proud and demonstrate that their decision to immigrate was the right one. My aspiration is to build a thriving career, thanks to the higher education they envisioned for me. This pursuit is not only for their gratification but also for my own, as I strive for a secure and fulfilling life without the burden of job uncertainty or limited prospects. Actively participating in various programs at my school has been instrumental in shaping my career path. The AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) program, in particular, has provided me with crucial support in preparing for college. Additionally, my involvement in the school's Band program has not only enriched my high school experience but has also taught me valuable lessons in teamwork and dedication. This journey has involved researching colleges, identifying my major, and preparing for the next phase of my education. The support I have received from my school and the AVID program is invaluable, and I am truly grateful for the guidance and mentorship that have been instrumental in shaping my aspirations and goals. As I look into the future, I am wholeheartedly committed to embarking on a journey of higher education, with a specific focus on dentistry. This field resonates deeply with me as it aligns perfectly with my fervent desire to enrich people's lives by helping them attain a radiant and confident smile, much like my own dentist did for me. My aspiration extends beyond merely obtaining a degree; I am resolute in my determination to thrive in this chosen field, making a positive impact on society and serving as an inspirational figure for others who, like me, may be the first in their family to pursue higher education. I am eager to immerse myself in the intricacies of dentistry, honing my skills and knowledge to become a beacon of hope and transformation for individuals seeking to enhance their oral health and overall well-being. I am aware that the journey ahead may present challenges, but I am prepared to face them with resilience and determination. With the support of my family, mentors, and the community, I am confident in my ability to achieve my academic and career aspirations. I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead and eager to make the most of the educational journey that awaits me.

"She's not going to overcome this, she's not made for that life" My name is Yorbelit Cruz Hernandez, I am a senior at Taft Union High School and I plan on majoring in Political Science and Criminal Justice. My dream is to become an intellectual property lawyer and help people who are facing difficult situations regarding property. One of the biggest challenges I faced was working in the field at the age of 16. My parents always taught me that if I wanted something, I needed to work for it. That's exactly what I did at 16. Despite them wanting me to experience the "tough life", they doubted whether I could overcome the challenges of working in the fields. "No, no lo va ganar, no lo va a hacer," were the words that translated to "she's not going to overcome this, she's not going to be able to do this". It was mentally and physically challenging to get through this job. I worked for Grimmway farms and my task was to pick weeds from carrot beds for 8-9 hours a day. This was a very difficult job that not many can do. The sun was always shining, it was very muddy, my hands and legs were numb for a long time until I finally got used to it, and sometimes the weeds would be impossible to get out. I'd be lying if I said there weren't times I felt like quitting. Those days made it hard to get out of bed knowing that my body was going to urge me to stop what I was doing and just quit. My parents told me that if I truly felt like was too much then I should just quit. But, there was this voice inside of me that wasn't going to allow that; "they were not going to get the last laugh". Throughout all this, what kept me determined to continue working was the doubts of people saying I wasn't capable of doing this job. I spent my whole summer working those 2 months in the fields. This job not only taught me determination and perseverance, but it also taught me to strive for a good career. I am now more determined than ever to do work for my future. Despite people doubting my capabilities, I remained determined to continue working. I spent the entire summer working in the fields for two months. This job not only taught me determination and perseverance but also motivated me to strive for a successful career. I am now more determined than ever to work for my future. If there is one thing my band teacher has taught me best, it's that "it's kind of fun to do the impossible."