I was born in El Dorado, Arkansas, and lived in Tennessee until I was 4. From there, my family moved to Saratoga Springs, Utah, and we’ve been here for about 15 years. My dad was born in the states after his family immigrated to America from Mexico. Growing up, I loved taking care of my little brother. I discovered, during this time, that the “big sister” role heavily influences my leadership style. I want to be the person who takes care of everything, so I’m inclined to look out for others. I try to empower people to become their best selves. 

From a young age, I started to develop many interests and hobbies. My mom introduced me to pageants. My first pageant was Miss California Tropic, in which I entered on a whim. Right before it started, my mom drove me home so we could grab my Easter dress, and then she helped me practice in the hallway. I ended up winning the competition.

At a later pageant, a talent agency recruited me to start looking for work as an actress. After my first-ever audition, I got the part on a SCHEELS commercial. From there, I acted in several more commercials and some horror films. In 2020, I won the United States of America Teen Utah Pageant and was runner-up at the national level. There is a running joke that I have a unique amount of beginner's luck.

Though I did find success quickly in pursuing these passions, I faced setbacks as well. The door closed on significant aspirations I held, but those closed doors allowed me to explore more interests, such as archery, tennis, and video production. I learned throughout high school that letdowns are part of life, but there is always a silver lining if you are willing to look for it.

At the beginning of my high school senior year, I was convinced I would study chemistry at Southern Utah University. But soon after, I realized that I am most passionate about art and creativity. So, my parents and I looked into other options for study and found the digital marketing major, which seemed like a perfect fit. As it happens, Utah Valley University (UVU) is the only school that offers digital marketing as a degree. I wanted to be a part of the program.

I was hoping to receive financial aid from UVU but did not receive one scholarship despite applying for available opportunities. One of my neighbors, Lisa Bearnson, knew about my dilemma. She reached out to Jim Demary, director of advancement at UVU. She helped garner support from members of my community to petition for my financial aid, especially in light of the community service I’d completed as Teen Utah. After several weeks of emailing, Jim sent me an email indicating that an anonymous benefactor wanted to pay for my first semester at UVU. I immediately replied with an email of gratitude toward my anonymous donor.

Starting college with the scholarship, I had major imposter syndrome. But my motivation to do my very best in school skyrocketed to new heights. I worked hard to learn as much as possible in my classes and even qualify for the dean’s list.

UVU has been a blast so far. I’ve made connections through attending fitness classes at the Student Life and Wellness Center, and I’ve enjoyed my academic classes. One of my favorite classes up to this point, taught by Dustin Harding, was an online version of data analytics. It was the first online class where I felt like I was being challenged in a productive way to gain real-world experience. The assignments were carefully designed and gave me the confidence to learn and do well. I believe UVU has a lot of faculty like Professor Harding. 

In my second semester, I learned about the UVU Student Association (UVUSA). I saw an activities position and applied. A week or two later, Ethan Morse, vice president of Academics, called me and asked me if I wanted to apply to be the senator for the Woodbury School of Business. When he explained the position, he said something about a full-tuition scholarship. I didn’t know much about the position or whether I was qualified, but I decided to apply, and I’m very grateful I did. I love my responsibility as the line of communication from deans to students and students to deans. If students have concerns or questions, I get to be their voice and create a dialogue between them and the amazing administrators and faculty. 

Every Tuesday for a month, we highlighted a different degree within the Woodbury School of Business in a campaign called “Know Your Degree.” That allowed us to pass information from faculty to students face to face. Being part of UVUSA, I’ve learned the importance of involvement in school, whether that be with academics or with student life.

It’s exciting to meet and work with people. I used to be afraid to talk to people, but I realized that, more often than not, people feel the same way. I’ve learned not to be afraid of talking to and making connections with people. 

I have two years to graduate, but after I get my degree, I think it would be cool to be a brand manager for a big company in New York or even a startup in Utah. I’m also interested in going to graduate school and pursuing an MBA. There are a lot of options. 

Jim told me that my anonymous donor said I’m their best investment. To me, that is the biggest compliment. I know that I am still benefiting greatly from their donation. My desire to show appreciation for such a generous gift has led me to find these exciting opportunities at UVU. I want to be a great Wolverine!

I think other students in my position would also want to make the most of their college experience. So, I hope my story inspires potential donors to take a chance on students to help them achieve their goals and dreams.

I want students to know you each have something unique to offer. You should never be afraid to reach out and ask for help because there are many people who want to help you.