Heath's Healthy Hearts LLC Annual Scholarship Award

I'm a seventeen-year-old girl getting ready to go to college with my twin sister. My name is Ashanti, and I'm excited for this new chapter in my story. Being a first-generation college student has taught me a lot and made me want to do my best in everything. I do a lot of extracurriculars, including 4 clubs, 2 sports, and over 150+ hours of community volunteering. I just want to make a positive impact on the world like how medical staff treated my family during numerous times in and out of the hospital. My short- and long-term goals are centered on becoming a licensed pharmacist and ultimately earning my Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree. I plan to complete my prerequisite courses and finish my undergraduate studies in two years, then enter a four-year pharmacy program. During this time, I want to challenge myself academically, build hands-on experience, and grow into a confident healthcare professional who can truly make a difference. To prepare for pharmacy school, I plan to shadow pharmacists, participate in internships, and get involved in research opportunities that will expose me to real medical environments. These experiences will not only help me understand the daily responsibilities of a pharmacist but also strengthen my résumé and deepen my passion for the field. I also hope to work as a pharmacy technician—whether at CVS or another pharmacy—to gain early experience interacting with patients, learning medication management systems, and understanding what it takes to run a pharmacy efficiently. Financial responsibility is another important part of my plan. I will apply for scholarships (like yours), grants, and any available financial aid to help cover the cost of my education. As someone who helps support a disabled father and a mother who works multiple jobs to provide for our family, I understand the importance of budgeting, saving, and staying focused on long-term goals. Earning a PharmD is not only my personal dream but also an opportunity to build a stable future for myself and to give back to the people who have sacrificed so much for me. Beyond academics and work, I want to maintain a healthy balance in my life. Staying active by going to the gym and participating in intramural sports helps me manage stress and stay grounded. I believe that keeping up with activities I enjoy will help me succeed mentally and emotionally as I take on the challenges of college and professional school. In the future, I hope to work in a pediatric hospital or another clinical setting where I can support children and families during some of their most difficult moments. The idea of helping young patients feel safe, cared for, and understood motivates me to keep pushing toward my goals. No matter where I end up, I know I want to work in a hospital environment where I can be part of a healthcare team and directly contribute to improving patient outcome Furthermore, I'm excited for the journey ahead and fully aware that it will come with obstacles. These funds will help me very much while I go to college and pursue my goals and dreams I described above. I am determined to persevere, stay focused, and never lose sight of why I started. My long-term goal is not only to earn my PharmD, but to become a compassionate, dependable clinical pharmacist who uses knowledge and empathy to serve others. I am ready to work hard, stay committed, and build a future that reflects my dedication and resilience.