If I had unlimited money... by CORELYS

If I had unlimited money... by CORELYS - May 2025 Scholarship Essay

If I had unlimited time and money, I would dedicate my life to transforming our education system into one that uplifts every child—no matter where they come from, what language they speak, or what their zip code looks like. My psychology studies have taught me that early environments shape everything, and I believe the best way to create long-term change in the world is by giving young people the tools and support they need to succeed.

My first goal would be to rebuild and fund public schools in under-resourced areas across the United States and Puerto Rico. Too many children are sitting in classrooms with broken windows, outdated books, and very little hope. In Puerto Rico especially, many schools are in extremely poor condition—some have closed down entirely, and others are barely functioning. Students are expected to thrive in buildings that haven’t seen repairs in years. I would make sure every school on the island has working air conditioning, reliable power, clean water, and learning spaces that are safe, bright, and filled with opportunity.

Puerto Rican children deserve more than the bare minimum. I would invest in updated technology, after-school programs, and cultural experiences that reflect their identity and encourage pride in their heritage. I would also repair and reopen Puerto Rico’s Arecibo Observatory or create similar educational hubs so that students can not only learn about science—they can see it, feel it, and become it. I want students on the island to take field trips, explore the world outside their classrooms, and know that they are just as capable and deserving as anyone else.

My dream is to make classrooms feel exciting again. I’d fund art programs, language immersion opportunities, and hands-on learning. I want students—especially ESL learners—to feel supported, not silenced. As someone who once sat in a classroom not fully understanding what was being said, I know how hard it is to succeed when you feel like you’re playing catch-up. I’d make sure that ESL students have access to bilingual educators and materials that help them learn both academically and socially, without being left behind or made to feel "other."

Lastly, I would prioritize mental health education. I would place trained counselors and social workers in every school to support students emotionally, especially those who may be dealing with trauma, family issues, or anxiety. No child should feel alone in their struggles. We cannot expect students to succeed academically if their emotional needs are being ignored.

If I had the power, I’d build a generation that is emotionally aware, well-educated, and proud of who they are—whether they were born in Boston or Bayamón. Because education isn’t just about grades—it’s about giving kids the chance to dream, to grow, and to imagine a better future for themselves.

And with unlimited resources, I would make sure no child ever has to grow up believing they don’t matter—because they all do.