Daisy I need you to...Purposely Take Up Space by Daisy

Daisy I need you to...Purposely Take Up Space by Daisy - July 2025 Scholarship Essay

If I could give one piece of advice to my past self, it would be this: Don't be afraid to take up space--you deserve to be here just as much as anyone else.

As a first-generation Latina from a low-income background, I've spent so much of my life navigating systems that weren't built for people like me. I used to shrink myself in classrooms, second-guess my ideas, and downplay my achievements out of fear that I didn't belong. But over time, I've learned that my presence in spaces like UC Berkeley--the number one public university in the country--is not an accident. I worked hard to get here. I earned my seat at the table. And thats's something I wish I had understood sooner.

Growing up, I didn't have family members who could tell me what college applications looked like, or how to network, or what it even meant to pursue a professional career. I had to figure things out on my own, piercing together resources from my school, community, and online research. I juggled responsibilities at home, translated documented for my parents, and worked for my Mom's small party planning business--all while studying and maintaining strong grades. Every step forward felt like climbing a steep mountain, and there were moments I doubted if the view from the top would even be for me.

Then I got into UC Berkeley. I remember the joy and disbelief of that moment. But not long after arriving that joy was replaced by something else: imposter syndrome. I looked around and saw students with generational wealth, private school background, and professional networks I couldn't even imagine. Some had parents who were lawyers or doctors. Some had never worried about money. Some had been trained since middle school to speak the language of opportunity fluently. And there I was--feeling like I had snuck into a room I wasn't supposed to be in.

If I could talk to that version of myself, I'd hold her by the shoulders and say, "You didn't sneak in. You broke in with the strength of your own determination--and you belong here". I'd remind her that the experiences that once made her feel out of place--struggling financially, balancing family obligation, learning to switch cultures--are exactly what makes her a more resilient, rounded, and powerful student.

It took me time to unlearn the belief that I needed to apologize for taking up space. I used to feel like I had to make myself smaller in class discussions or overcompensate in group projects to prove I deserved to be there. But the truth is, I dont need to prove anything to anyone. I bring something to the table that no GPA, resume, or recommendation letter can fully capture.

Passion. Perspective. A deep understanding of sacrifice and a drive to make change not just for myself, but for my family and community.

Now, when I sit in lecture halls, walk though campus, or attend professional events, I remind myself: This school was made for scholars like me--ones who work hard, who push boundaries, who carry generations of dreams on their shoulders. I've learned that just because others may have had a smoother path doesn't mean their presence matters more. I've stopped comparing my behind-the-scenes to their highlight reels. I've stopped letting wealth or polish intimidate me. Instead, I let my story empower me.

To my younger self, I would say this: Your journey is worthy. Your voice matters. Don't wait for someone to give you permission to dream big or speak up. You've already proven that you can overcome more than most people can imagine. So walk into every room knowing your background isn't a limitation--it's a source of strength. You are not a guest in these spaces. You are a rightful part of them.

And one last thing--don't dim your light to make others comfortable. Shine bright. Take up all the space you need. Because you belong, and you always have.