Grade my essay based on these criteria:
1. Core Values (aka Information) a. Can you name at least 4-5 of the author’s core values? b. Do you detect a variety of values, or do the values repeat? Examples of NOT varied values: hard work, determination, perseverance Examples of more varied values: autonomy, resourcefulness, healthy boundaries, diversity 2. Vulnerability a. Does the essay sound like it’s mostly analytical or like it’s coming from a deeper, more vulnerable place? Another way of asking this: Does it sound like the author wrote it using mostly his or her head (intellect) or his or her heart and gut? b. After reading the essay, do you know more about the author AND feel closer to him or her? 3. “So what” moments (aka Important & interesting connections) a. Can you identify at least 3-5 “so what” moments of insight in the essay? b. Are these moments kind of predictable, or are they truly illuminating? 4. Craft a. Do the ideas in the essay connect in a way that is logical, but not too obvious (aka boring)? b. Can you tell that the essay represents a series of carefully considered choices and that the author spent a lot of time revising the essay over the course of several drafts? c. Is it interesting and succinct throughout? If not, where do you lose interest? Where could words be cut or which part isn’t revealing as much as it could be?
UC Prompt# 6. Think about an academic subject that inspires you. Describe how you have furthered this interest inside and/or outside of the classroom.

From the moment I folded my first paper airplane at the age of five, my fascination with flight was ignited. Watching my creation glide sparked countless afternoons of designing and testing models. This early curiosity led me to high school chemistry, a subject that initially felt as intricate as flight.

Under Mr. Foster's guidance, my chemistry journey flourished. I recall a demonstration where he dissolved a chicken drumstick with piranha solution, transforming shock into fascination. Another time, he used gas laws to navigate an egg into a beaker, further igniting my passion for chemical reactions and their real-world applications.

However, the AP Chemistry class at my school fell short of my expectations. Rather than giving up, I confronted this setback by self-studying using online resources and virtual labs. Scoring a 4 on the AP exam proved my dedication and reinforced my ability to overcome academic obstacles.

Outside the classroom, my love for flight evolved from origami to aerodynamics. Inspired by Scott H. Young’s “MIT Challenge” and “Ultralearning,” I delved into engineering and CAD design. I collaborated with friends to build a modified tricycle go-kart, overcoming challenges in sourcing parts and adapting to a pre-built frame, which deepened my appreciation for teamwork and creative problem-solving.

This blend of chemistry and engineering is crucial to my aspirations in aerospace engineering. Understanding materials science and chemical reactions enhances my approach to aircraft design and sustainable aviation technologies.

My vision is that one day I might be able to work on eco-friendly solutions that reduce aviation’s environmental impact without compromising safety or efficiency. At the University of California, I plan to leverage my interests by joining the Aerospace Engineering Society, engaging in research on sustainable materials, and pursuing internships to contribute to advancements in aerospace technology and drive meaningful change.

Reflecting on my journey—from folding paper airplanes to excelling in self-taught AP Chemistry and building a go-kart—I’ve learned that passion and perseverance can turn curiosity into results. These experiences have prepared me for the challenges of aerospace engineering and instilled a lifelong desire to innovate in a field that has fascinated me since childhood.