Hello, my name is Adrian Ambriz, and I am an 8th grader at Hillside Innovation Academy. I was recently nominated for the National Youth Leadership Forum: Pathways to STEM, an Envision by WorldStrides career exploration program held at the University of Maryland, College Park in Washington, D.C.

I am extremely excited about this nomination because it connects directly to my dream of becoming an engineer. Since I was young, I’ve always loved building things—whether toys, gadgets, or creative little inventions. Growing up, we didn’t have everything, but my mom worked hard to make sure my sister and I had everything we needed. With the support of my grandparents and countless hours watching my grandma craft and build things by hand, I discovered early on that creating and engineering is what I want to do in life.

I haven’t always been confident. I was shy for many years and spent time in private schools where I struggled with bullying and didn’t always stand up for myself. I made a mistake during that time—one that led to me being removed from school. Even though it was difficult, my mom supported me, helped me stay honest about what happened, and guided me through the transition to a new school and a new way of learning. It wasn’t easy, but it turned into a blessing.

Today, my mom often tells me how proud she is of how far I’ve come. She reminds me that our choices—even the ones with consequences—can guide us toward new opportunities. That experience led me to teachers who believe in my potential, who push me to grow, and who help me build confidence every day.

Now, as an 8th grader, I am also part of the Heritage High School Robotics Program, where I get to go on campus three days a week to learn from high school students and teachers. Being part of robotics has sparked an even greater passion for engineering, and it motivates me to work harder toward my goals.

For more than 30 years, Envision programs have helped students explore future careers, discover their passions, and develop strong leadership skills. As one of their Future STEM Leaders, I am honored to be considered for NYLF Pathways to STEM—a program designed for curious, forward-thinking students who may one day become engineers, scientists, doctors, or innovators.

Through hands-on simulations, workshops, and collaboration with other students, I will have the chance to build a strong foundation in STEM and learn skills that will guide my future. Students can choose between the six-day Residential experience or the five-day Day program, depending on what works best for them.

This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. To attend, I am working to raise $10,000 to help cover travel, boarding, and food for the duration of the program. I am committed to doing everything I can to make this dream possible, and any support toward this goal means more than I can express.

To everyone who contributes: thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your generosity is a blessing to me and my family, and I am truly grateful for the opportunity your support gives me. May you be blessed in return for helping me take this step toward my future.

NYLF Pathways to STEM represents the beginning of an exciting new chapter—a chance to learn, grow, make new friends, and explore the world of 21st-century science and technology. I am deeply honored to have been nominated, and I am ready for the journey ahead.