College of Idaho, Caldwell, Idaho
Boise State University, Boise, Idaho
University of Idaho, Moscow, Idaho
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Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
Gonzaga University, Spokane, Washington
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Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island

I intend to major in biomedical engineering due to my interest in hands-on work and research. I’ve always been curious about how things work. As a kid, I would dismantle any objects I came across because I wanted to understand it. Through this, I developed an appreciation for hands-on problem solving.

Furthermore, I had the opportunity to intern at the Center for Orthopedic and Biomechanics Research lab at Boise State University. During my time there I helped beta test Xo-Nano insoles designed to measure force. My tasks were to run labs, collect data, and send data back to the company. I ended up fascinated by doing research, knowing it was being used to help advance orthopedic and biomechanical technology. This experience helped me realize that I want to work in a field that involves doing research, especially in science or health-related areas.

Biomedical engineering will allow me to have both hands-on work and research aspects I desire. I am excited about learning how to design medical devices and working in labs where I can create and test real projects. With this degree, I hope to help design technology that improves ways to detect and treat diseases in the medical field.

I plan to go to college to earn a bachelor's degree in biomedical engineering. This field will allow me to combine both hands-on work and research aspects that I desire. I am especially interested in designing and improving medical technologies that help detect, monitor, and treat diseases. I look forward to laboratory settings where I can design, build, and test real-world projects that can make a big impact on patients.

If I have a chance, I would also like to pursue a minor in either a language or in photography. Minoring in Spanish would allow me to strengthen a language I already use and help me better serve Spanish-speaking communities. Korean is also a language I am interested in learning, as it would help me connect with a wider range of people and explore a culture I am interested in. Photography is a personal passion of mine, and continuing to grow in my skills would allow me to combine creativity with my technical interests.

In addition to my major and minor, I hope to enhance my education through studying abroad. I believe having the opportunity to experience different healthcare systems and cultures would broaden my perspective and help me better understand how medical technology can be adapted to meet global needs.

With this education, I plan to pursue a career within the field of biomedical engineering, where I can make meaningful innovations and help contribute to improving healthcare. My long-term goal is to use my skills to support under-resourced and diverse communities to make sure medical technology benefits everyone, not just a few.

Throughout high school, I have participated in programs such as TRIO Upward Bound, Rising Voices, and National Honor Society. I have also taken on leadership roles through Student Council and by helping plan our school's Annual Young Women in Leadership Conference. In athletics, I’ve participated in volleyball, tennis, and cheer.

Beyond school, I serve on the Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council, participate in Caldwell’s Youth Action Pact, and volunteer as an academic tutor. Additionally, I participate in Aztec Dancing.

Through these experiences, I have developed leadership skills, a strong sense of responsibility, and a passion for giving back to my community.

During my freshman year, my TRIO Upward Bound specialist encouraged me to attend a Young Women in Leadership Conference. At first I was reluctant, but a friend convinced me to attend. During the conference, I listened to women share their personal and professional journeys, and I remember leaving feeling inspired and more confident in myself.

While attending, I noticed the committee that planned the conference. Seeing girls from my own school lead such an impactful conference made me realize that I wanted to be a part of something like that. The following year, I was invited to join the planning committee, where I took part in Recruitment and Registration.

Going into my junior year, I was given the opportunity to serve as Chair of our Program’s 8th Annual Conference planning committee. To be honest, I didn’t feel ready for it. The previous Chair had done an amazing job, and I doubted whether I could lead as she had.

However, my TRIO specialist believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself. He assured me that he wouldn’t let me fail and helped guide me through the process. Over time, I found my leadership style by focusing on communication. I kept our committee connected, followed up on tasks, and made sure we stayed on track.

After the conference, reading attendee feedback was one of the most meaningful and heart-warming moments I’ve had. I saw how the conference helped other girls in my school feel inspired, supported, and more confident in themselves. That was when I realized that I had made an impact. Thanks to TRIO, I learned that leadership can be quiet, steady, and behind the scenes, but still enough to make a real difference.

Other than financial challenges, the biggest obstacle I anticipate in completing college is being a first-generation student and not knowing how to navigate the college environment. Without family members who have experienced higher education and not knowing what to expect academically, it feels intimidating.

To overcome this challenge, I plan to seek out first-generation support programs and offices, such as advising centers, cultural resource centers, and student success programs. I believe that finding support in communities will help me adjust and thrive in a new environment.

Academically, I realize that adjusting to college-level coursework may be challenging at first. To navigate through this, I plan to attend professor’s office hours regularly in order to ask questions and build relationships with faculty. I will also take advantage of any tutoring services and study groups to strengthen my understanding of materials and build good study habits.

Additionally, finding a mentor will be important to my success. Having someone who can offer guidance and encouragement, whether through faculty, advisors, or college programs, will help me stay motivated and confident.

By using these resources and seeking support early, I am confident that I can overcome the obstacles and succeed in college.

No one in my immediate family has completed college. My dad began working after getting his GED and my mom enrolled at a community college but didn’t finish. She once dreamed of becoming a doctor, but without support or guidance, her dream faded. Their stories showed me how easily ambition can be interrupted by barriers.

Receiving The Opportunity Fund would mean my ambitions are not limited by my ability to pay for college. It would mean having access to the education my parents once hoped for but were unable to reach. More than financial support, this scholarship represents a belief that my goals are possible and worth investing in.

This support would also allow me to just focus on my education without the burden of figuring out how to pay off tuition or how much debt I may accumulate. It would give me the freedom to pursue learning with stability, knowing that I have financial support.

To me, The Opportunity Fund represents hope, not just for my future but for my family’s story as well.

There are a variety of organizations and events I have volunteered at, including, but not limited to, The Salvation Army, Just Serve, Kiwanis Chuckwagon, Jefferson Middle School’s Academic Team, and Caldwell High School’s Farmworker Appreciation Dinner. However, the most rewarding volunteer experience for me has been tutoring kids at Heritage Community Charter School.

During my time as a tutor, I have had the opportunity to serve kids who come from Spanish-speaking families. Growing up, I remember nights at the kitchen table when my mom struggled to help me with my homework. The language barrier often makes it difficult for Spanish-speaking parents to help their children. Knowing the struggle of not having someone help me with my homework, I make sure to give my time to other families.

During tutoring, I like to help kids with math because it is one of my strengths, but a subject the kids tend to struggle with. I take my time to make sure they understand the material and can do it on their own. I will explain concepts to them as needed, find different ways to present to them, or make visual aids. My favorite moments will always be when the kids gain the confidence to solve the problems on their own.

Apart from helping improve grades, I build personal connections with the kids. I’m grateful they feel safe enough to show their true personalities and share about their lives. Receiving a simple “thank you” or a tight hug from the kids always reminds me that my efforts to serve them matter and can be life-changing for them.

To fund my post-secondary education, I plan to rely primarily on need-based financial aid from my selected institution and scholarships. My family is currently facing several significant financial obligations, which limit their ability to contribute to college costs. Because of this, I understand that funding my education will largely be my responsibility.

Some steps I have already taken to do this have been completing both FAFSA and CSS Profile, ensuring that I am fully considered for available federal, institutional, and need-based aid. I was also notified that I am eligible for a Pell Grant. In addition, I have worked hard to keep my grades nearly perfect throughout high school to remain competitive for full or high-level merit scholarships. Keeping a strong academic performance has been a priority for me, as I view it as both a personal responsibility and an opportunity to get more financial aid.

Throughout this semester, I’ve begun to pursue scholarship opportunities and am dedicating time to completing applications. I am in the process of applying to programs such as the Hispanic Scholarship Fund Scholar Program, Dell Scholars, and CFEO scholarships. Through this process, I am learning to advocate for myself financially.

As I continue my education, I plan to apply for additional scholarships throughout college as needed. I also intend to participate in federal work-study or campus employment if needed, allowing me to contribute to my college expenses while gaining work experience. I am committed to budgeting responsibly.

By combining financial aid, scholarships, and work-study, I hope to make my college education financially sustainable. These efforts reflect my determination to pursue higher education despite financial challenges and my commitment to investing in my future.