Matilde Arias and her mother have always shared a close bond. When Matilde was 12, her mother was diagnosed with cancer. Although chemotherapy saved her life, she later suffered a stroke after entering remission. As her mother worked to regain her mobility, Matilde stepped into the role of a second adult in the household. She took on responsibilities such as translating during medical appointments, appealing insurance denials, and working to supplement her father’s income. These responsibilities often required her to miss school so she could prioritize her family’s needs.

Once her mother’s health began to improve, Matilde turned her focus back to her education with renewed determination. She worked hard to complete high school, earning an honors diploma, and was ultimately accepted to George Fox University, where she plans to study Political Science.