DIANA FERNANDA CARBAJAL

Thank you for the opportunity to apply for this scholarship. My name is Diana Fernanda Carbajal, I am a 19 years old Latina. I lived most of my life in Guadalajara, Mexico, where I lacked the support of my biological parents, and was constantly psychologically and physically harmed by them. At the age of 14, I purchased a flight ticket to the U.S. with my savings so that I could continue my education and have a successful career. I lived 3 years with my sister, who became my legal guardian. But I struggled with loneliness, which continues to this day. Even though I am very independent, I do miss my parents. This is why I chose Psychology as my major. I want to be able provide an excellent support service to children with low resources so they can achieve healthy lifestyles; a place full of support ready to be spread to the future of our planet.

Since I am the head of the household, in charge of paying my rent and bills, I have benefited from EOPS immensely! They’ve provided me assistance paying for my books, giving me a laptop when I did not have one, and giving me a meal card to nourish myself. I cannot thank the program enough, because without them I know that I would not be where I am today. This scholarship will be a huge help to me because I will be applying for admission to UC Berkeley, where things are far from inexpensive.