Throughout the course of three years, my father's company failed, our family car was seized, and we were nearly evicted from our home because my parents could not pay the mortgage. Every morning, I turned over in bed and stared my alarm clock straight in its ugly and condescending eyes. At 5 AM, the same sound would blast out of that clock. The only thought that ran through my mind was "sleep is for the weak." My parents had both engrained...

To some, it would seem impossible to fulfill every single one of my academic interests. I want to read the writings of Freud and Hitler. I want to learn about the apparently infinite universe and feel like I do not exist. I want the ability to respect calculus, music, poetry, and foreign language. I want to live in a diverse community and learn from my peers. USC is one of the few universities that can actually provide for my desire...

Agriculture has a monopoly on the activities in my community and, personally, I never anticipated that I would have been interested in it. However, my life changed (for the better) when I was elected as the Bret Harte Future Farmers of America (FFA) Chapter President in 2014. This accomplishment forever changed my outlook on life. Taking part of the agriculture program at my school has given me a new appreciation for my community (the agricultural industry employs most adults in my...

I come from a devoutly Catholic family. I have been instilled with Catholic values since before I can remember, and the most important events in my life include my First Communion and Confirmation. When I learned that there was a university that utilizes the Lasallian teaching order, which is of Catholic descent, so close to my hometown of Millbrae, I decided to take advantage of that. I want to live in a place where my community is inspired and motivated...

When my little sister was born, I was jealous. I knew that my parents were going to give her more attention than me, and I was used to being the only child. Transformation occurred for me when she was born. Before she was born, I was selfish and honestly thought that the world revolved around me. I did not care about anyone besides myself. When my little sister Bianca was brought into this world, I realized the joy of sharing...

I think what set me apart from other applicants was my ability to hold leadership positions while maintaining a stellar GPA. I have been the president of the...

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