While working towards a degree in Journalism and Media Studies at UNLV, my goal is ultimately to give back and inspire students to find their purpose through passions. I believe in the power of positivity and the impact of student voice. Currently I am working towards empowering student voice and celebrating youth innovation as the Lead Intern for #ICANHELP. After growing up in a small Northern California town, I decided to chase my city dreams and move to Las Vegas, Nevada to seek opportunity and growth. I quickly became active on campus through being a member of the UNLV Scarlet Dance Line and working as a Rebel Recruiter in the UNLV Office of Admissions. I’ve also been the Amazon Prime Student Campus Manager at UNLV since my freshman year and have had the opportunity to collaborate with Campus Managers from across the country. 

Unfortunately during the winter break of my freshman year, my incredible mother was diagnosed with Stage Four Metastatic Breast Cancer. I quickly found myself taking on the caregiver position and balancing three jobs and a full-time course load. Thankfully I had gained so much strength and maturity to carry with me from previously taking care of my mom when she was originally diagnosed with cancer when I was fifteen. 

In spring of 2020 my worlds were put to a test as I continued my education from home, often completing coursework while sitting with my mom as she experienced the negative impact of chemotherapy. As I began to take my finals my moms health quickly deteriorated as her lungs filled with fluid. At the time I still looked at myself as a typical college student. Reflecting back I have realized the incredible strength and determination it took for me to be able to complete my finals and finish the semester with a 4.0 GPA, while holding my mother as she fought for her life. On June 24^th my mom passed away and my life began to crumble as I had to get rid of our home and belongings to start a new chapter.

Throughout my journey of grief I have been determined to continue my course load and work even harder to prove how capable I am. I believe that the resilience and strength I have built is now breaking down barriers and allowing me to pursue goals like continuing my education after completing my undergraduate degree. In the future I hope to start my own nonprofit in her honor to provide support services for teenagers and young adults who are caregivers to a family member. I plan to create a safe place for these individuals to support one another by sharing their journeys, while also receiving psychological services and academic support. I am determined to make this happen and show every young caregiver that the strength we build through our growth, will guide us towards achieving our dreams.