Theater is probably the main reason I love math and science the way I do. The technical aspects of building sets, setting up lights, and planning scenes to make productions interesting and aesthetically pleasing require keen eyes, an interest in technology, and a fascination with the way things work. The performing aspects are indescribably beautiful, whether it be an untrained child or an experienced veteran to the stage. Because of this, I treasure the time I am able to spend...

Math is like a beautiful song. Some hate it and some love it but it takes a trained and interested ear to pick it apart and realize the beauty is not just in the output, but in the mechanics as well. I am hopelessly drawn to the math department at MIT. The numbers, shapes, functions, formulas, and the endless stream of theorems that encompass this discipline entrance and excite me. I love taking moments to examine ceilings tiles and tracing...

The first of the few to start encouraging my intellectual endeavors was my paternal great grandfather. His encouragement, coupled with that of my parents, empowered me to explore and push my limits and challenge doubts and impossibilities. Emotional, mental, academic, physical, and spiritual stability are difficult to achieve or even muster something close to. I work with youth every week who struggle to gain that stability without anyone else to turn to. It's truly amazing what a few encouraging words...

My world is a compilation of traditional and modern influences meshing together into a unique combination that supports me and challenges me in every way possible. My family is composed of traditional people who value respect in and out of the household. Needless to say when I am let loose into my city to mingle with my peers who range from quiet introverts to loud and stubborn extroverts, sometimes I don't fit in. I remember my first day of public...

I overcame the stifling housewife expectations of my rural family and the bullying of my early middle school years to find a love in mathematics and critical thinking. This love was noticed and I was invited to represent my middle school in a math competition. Our team was diverse. Vietnam, Puerto Rico, and Haiti were each represented among my three teammates. We greeted each other warmly, enthusiastic for the coming challenge and the honor of being invited by our respective...

Choosing my school was easy for me because I got into my first choice, MIT. After making sure it was financially possible, everything really just worked out. I chose MIT because it felt like home every moment I visited the campus. The people that go to MIT are a special and diverse sort. At the school, I felt challenged and intimidated by...