# Grove Farm Scholar

## Abigail Iloreta

2010 Grove Farm Scholar

**Abigail Iloreta**  
**University of California at Los Angeles** _Biology_

### What motto best describes your outlook on life?

I have learned and gained so much from being a part of a sorority such as the Kappa Delta organization. One of our mottos is to strive to be the best version of ourselves every day, and I encourage others to be the best versions of themselves all days of their lives.

### What has being awarded the Grove Farm Scholarship meant to you?

There are no words to express the gratitude I have for Grove Farm and the support I have received these past four years. Not only has this scholarship allowed me to attend a prestigious university, it has humbled me as I experienced an entire new world outside of Kaua`i. Although it has allowed me have an unforgettable college experience, I have never been so grateful to live the life I have on this beautiful island. I met the most driven individuals, joined organizations which strive to improve campus diversity, experienced thriller football and basketball games, and helped to make a difference in the lives of people living on Skid Row in Los Angeles. The experiences I have are so different, but I have made lasting memories. I am indebted to Grove Farm for allowing me to experience these great opportunities.

### What have you learned about yourself while you’ve been away?

The first quarter at UCLA was a difficult experience. I was yet to find my niche at UCLA, and I missed being with family (and eating rice, most especially). Through joining clubs and meeting new people every day, I learned that there was more to college than I was making it out to be. During my second quarter of my first year at UCLA, I met one of my first positive role models after joining a service organization. She was a powerful speaker, and I have never been so inspired. I realized for the first time that I could be confident, stand up and share a message to inspire others. I began to see my entire future and myself differently. Being away helped me shy away from my old thoughts of “you can’t,” to “you can!” I became an inspired individual, no longer trapped with the stigma of being a homesick out-of-state student.

### What are you doing now?

Currently, I am working as a Dental Assistant at Kauai Endodontics, as well as a Registrar at the Imaging Department at Wilcox Memorial Hospital. Within the next year or two, I hope to take the MCAT and begin applying for Medical Schools.

### What gives you hope for the future? What drives you?

Having the support of my parents, family, and friends give me hope and continuously drives me to be a better individual than I was the day before. The people who I have met in college and whom I have built lifelong friendships with also encourage my personal development, whether its in the workplace or when I am volunteering.