Hilliard L. "Tack" Gibbs Jr. Memorial Scholarship

Ever since I was a little child, I have nurtured a dream deep within my heart—a dream of becoming an OBGYN (Obstetrician and Gynecologist). This scholarship holds the key to turning that dream into a beautiful reality. As a child, I would often play doctor with my parents, but my desire to help people goes far beyond make-believe. I am particularly passionate about extending healthcare to those who are often overlooked and underrepresented. With the assistance of this scholarship, my journey toward achieving this challenging goal will become slightly more attainable. I envision college as a transformative experience, one that will prepare me intellectually and socially for my future career and adult life. As I approach my college years and continue to grow in knowledge, I anticipate the many opportunities for learning and self-discovery. Science, in particular, captivates me, and I yearn to delve into the extensive realm of knowledge it offers, with a special focus on reproductive health. In my AP Biology class last year, we explored the concept of positive and negative feedback in cellular communication. Childbirth and menstrual cycles serve as prime examples of positive feedback, where the response to a stimulus increases due to encouraging signals. These examples mirror a profound truth—that for positive change to occur, more Black women need to succeed in the medical field. By doing so, we can inspire young Black girls to realize that a career in medicine is indeed within their grasp. Representation matters, not only for the youth but also for the women under their care. Disturbingly, according to the CDC, Black women are three times more likely to experience maternal mortality compared to women of other races. Given the advancements in technology and the abundance of resources available in hospitals today, these racial disparities in healthcare are heart-wrenching. It is imperative that we, as a community, rise to the occasion and become the catalysts for change in the field of medicine. In addition to my passion for helping others, a college education will equip me with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel, particularly in terms of critical thinking. Cultivating this mindset will undoubtedly prepare me for the rigors of medical school. College holds immense importance for me as it presents a unique opportunity to gain an in-depth understanding of the medical field I wish to pursue. I firmly believe that college will nurture my personal and professional growth, allowing me to develop effective communication and time management skills, both of which are essential for a successful career. Moreover, furthering my education will not only provide financial stability but also enable me to support my parents during their retirement years. Witnessing my older family members, who attended college, now pursuing their respective career goals as a lawyer and a teacher, serves as an immense inspiration. As I bring my essay to a close, I am reminded of the profound significance that furthering my education holds for me. This scholarship serves as a pivotal stepping stone, propelling me closer to my dreams and aspirations. With unwavering determination and an unyielding commitment to making a difference, I am eager to embark on this journey. Your generous support will not only shape my future but also empower me to create a lasting impact on the world around me. I extend my heartfelt gratitude for considering my application and for the opportunity to pursue my ultimate dream.