This moment also marks the beginning of what I hope will be an exciting and rewarding adult life. I am not thinking ahead about what I will be doing, I just know that I am ready to do it and see where this journey takes me. I know life will have its ups and downs, but I also know that when I trip and fall, I can stand up and continue. Seeing the world from a different perspective will be a unique experience, especially for me as I have never lived or studied outside of Panama. 

My father inspired me to be an engineer, as he has always been passionate about his work as an engineer. And at the same time my mother has been an amazing role model. I found industrial engineering as the perfect combination of a technical yet human driven profession. My parents have inspired me, and they have also motivated me to be an independent woman who is true to herself. 

My journey to Universidad de Navarra came after doing extensive research, asking questions, and getting to know myself. As the university application process began, I embraced a growth mindset and worked hard to be true to myself. I quickly realized that I needed to find a university that fit my needs and wants. This process was not about my parents or my friends, it was about me. 

I remember the moment when I realised that my journey to post-secondary education didn't need to be stressful and overwhelming, it could be peaceful and enjoyable if only I focused on what was right for me. It was December and I was spending the holidays with my family.  I initially thought I was going to apply to over 10 universities around the world, but that day, while taking a walk out in nature with my brother, I realized Navarra, its beautiful campus and their engineering curriculum was the perfect place for me. I knew then, while looking up at the birds in the sky and enjoying the holiday season with my family, that I was making the right choice. Navarra was where I wanted to be and I was going to make sure it happened. 

My favorite learning space in school has been the art room. It feels like home. As a kinesthetic learner, I learn best by putting my hands on the work, and I learn by doing. Art has been challenging, but I love it so much and I am excited to put the finishing touches on my IB Art Exhibition which is coming up this weekend. 

Putting together my art exhibit has also reminded me of when I took the initiative to plan and help put together our school’s Science Fair. As Community Prefect, I wanted to make sure that all types of students were recognized on campus, and putting together the Science Fair and making it a long-standing school event is the way I am reminded that I can make a difference. Just like when I partnered with a group of friends to work with a community organization that crochets blankets for hospitals. I love to crochet and I am grateful to be able to share my work with others. 

My faith has always guided me, and I am the type of person who wants to make a difference. I am motivated to be of service to others, and that keeps me engaged. I am working very hard to stay present and avoid thinking about the future. But I do have a plan for my near future. I want to take a gap year and study Chinese language and culture. After university, I know I will find my way to a career where I will take advantage of the knowledge and skills from my engineering education.  I am not sure what my future will look like, but I know it will be a fun journey. 

I am most proud of my academic improvement and for never giving up on myself. I stayed true to myself and believed in what I could accomplish and for that I am grateful. I am proud to be a kind and compassionate human being who is ready to face new challenges and to keep learning with purpose. I want to make a difference in this world and work for others. 
I want to thank so many people at the school, but particularly Mr. Bartlett and Ms. Kirby for motivating me. I remember them for being strict yet loving. They made me feel safe, and their kindness and compassion carried me during difficult moments. I have fond memories of their smiles while we crossed paths in the hallway. I am also grateful to all my IB teachers who have made me a confident and independent learner. 

"I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." - Maya Angelou

-    Emma Guevara, accepted to Universidad de Navarra in Industrial Engineering