UC PIQ

Making my school and community a better place starts with a mindset of servitude, even in the smallest acts. Whether it's cleaning up after others, offering spiritual or emotional support, or simply showing up for people, I try to serve wherever I'm needed. Since the summer after my sophomore year of high school, I've been an Usher at my home church. Every Sunday, I greet both new and longtime members, help them find seating or childcare, and guide anyone seeking prayer or support. But most of my service comes through the quiet, behind the scenes tasks. Things like picking up trash, giving out communion, putting away chairs, tables, and canopies, and welcoming people with a genuine smile. While these acts may seem small, they play a big role in creating a clean, welcoming environment where people feel comfortable and cared for. I've learned that the atmosphere of a church is shaped not only by sermons and worship, but also by the quiet work that makes the space feel like home. Through the Economics Club's ROPE program, I have worked to serve students academically and professionally. My board and I mentored eleven student teams through the research process and helped organize a research symposium in collaboration with CSUF, where four teams presented their work to four IVC professors experienced in research. One of CSUF Econ Club VPs also presented an example of upperclassmen research with his own work. At the end of the symposium, the teams expressed appreciation for the mentorship and the opportunity to present their work, which strengthened both their research skills and their connection to the broader economics community. By connecting students with professors, other researchers, and providing guidance on refining their scope and methodology, I helped them gain confidence and receive constructive feedback. Whether it's guiding others through large projects or greeting people at church, all were done with the hope that my efforts could inspire others to serve and foster environments where people feel supported and capable of growth