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Luz Rodriguez

Ms. Leal

9-21-22

PIQ 1

Describe your favorite academic subject and explain how it has influenced you

Similar to a moth drawn to a flame, the different fields of science and I have a similar

relationship. Studying the distinctions between the branches of science, such as computer

science, psychology, and biology. However, Environmental Science has always captivated me

and continues to do so now. Throughout my high school career, I have been highly involved with

the school’s sustainability botanical garden. In my junior year, I enrolled myself in APES, (

Advanced Placement Environmental Science)which contributed to my drive to want a career in

Environmental Science. In my senior year, I have taken advantage of the leadership roles in the

school botanical garden and ran for and became president of the “Go Green club”. In the club, I

learn more about sustainable options while maintaining an environmental perspective when

maintaining the school’s garden. This club has helped me gain a wider skillset by understanding

and utilizing the importance of garden work tools such as a weed-wacker, and a lawnmower and

how people affect the environment. Throughout my Junior year, I did a year-long training course

program that helped me prepare for a summer internship. Later in the summer, I managed to get

an internship with Ports America due to my qualifications, skill set, and overall background

knowledge in Environmental science. Environmental Science has affected me to be more

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self-aware of global issues like climate change, water conservation, and deforestation and I want

to spread more awareness by creating posters and media for people aware of these global issues.

5. Describe the most significant challenge you have faced and the steps you have taken to overcome

this challenge. How has this challenge affected your academic achievement?

The most significant challenge I've ever faced was my motivation. Over the years I got

more and more involved in activities I slowly became worn out. When I do any assignment

either paper or activity I will always put all of my best efforts to make that piece look and be as

amazing as it can get. This challenge however was like a war in my mind, as I worked more and

more I realized that I would get tired doing tasks I listed as “easy”. Then the more I realized the

more assignments got harder, the more I pushed myself to complete my all in these assignments.

Without realizing it, my life was unbalanced. I was unknowingly skipping meals and losing sleep

only to overwork myself for that perfect grade or assignment. If the outcome was not up to my

standards, I would blame myself for being a failure and not only failing myself but failing

everyone around me including my friends and family. However, I realized that I needed to relax

my mind, I was always overworking myself so much that I never had time for myself to relax

and unwind. So I made myself find some time each day to listen to music and calm myself down

and relax. When stressed or overwhelmed I find that music helps calm me down, this has also

fueled my love for music. This is my most significant challenge and how I overcame it.