For DonorsFor Applicants

Thomas and May Mathew Educational Scholarship

$2,000
1 winner$2,000
Awarded
Application Deadline
Jun 1, 2024
Winners Announced
Jul 1, 2024
Education Level
Undergraduate, Graduate
Recent Bold.org scholarship winners
Eligibility Requirements
Education Level:
Undergraduate or graduate student
Field of Study:
Healthcare or education
State:
Michigan
Race:
Asian

Thomas and May Mathew were beloved parents who moved from India to Detroit, Michigan, where they created new lives and a family. 

Thomas served as a cardiologist for fifty years, and May worked as a preschool teacher for ten. In their respective careers, they made significant impacts on their communities, touching each patient and child they crossed paths with to leave behind a legacy of greatness.

This scholarship seeks to honor the memories of Thomas and May Mathew by supporting students who share their passions for healthcare and education.

Any Asian undergraduate or graduate student in Michigan who is pursuing healthcare or education may apply for this scholarship, but Indian or Malayalee applicants are preferred.

To apply, tell us why you’re pursuing a career in your chosen field and how your heritage has impacted your career choices.

Selection Criteria:
Ambition, Drive, Passion
Published December 29, 2023
Essay Topic

Please describe why you are pursuing a career in healthcare or education.  Additionally, please describe your heritage and if that plays into your career decisions and studies.

150–300 words

Winning Application

Rishi Topiwala
University of Michigan-Ann ArborCanton, MI
Growing up, I witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of Alzheimer's disease on both of my grandmothers. Their struggles, marked by repetitive questions, misplaced belongings, and forgetfulness, left an indelible mark on my heart. As I watched my grandmothers navigate through the fog of memory loss, I felt a stirring within me—an undeniable call to pursue a healthcare career. Initially, the realm of medicine seemed distant and uninviting to me. However, my perspective shifted dramatically during my high school years when I enrolled in a biology course. Delving into the intricate workings of the human body, I found myself captivated by the complexity and elegance of its design. Each lesson illuminated the profound interconnectedness of our physiological systems, sparking a newfound passion within me. As I reflect on my heritage, I cannot ignore the profound influence it has had on my career aspirations. Witnessing the toll of Alzheimer's on my grandmothers instilled in me a deep sense of empathy and a desire to alleviate the suffering of others. Their experiences serve as a constant reminder of the importance of compassionate care and the need for advancements in medical research and treatment. In pursuing a career in healthcare, I am driven by a dual sense of purpose—to honor the memory of my grandmothers by advocating for those affected by Alzheimer's and to contribute to the broader mission of healing and wellness. Through education and compassionate care, I aim to empower individuals and communities to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives. In essence, my journey toward a healthcare career is not just a professional pursuit; it is a deeply personal commitment rooted in empathy, compassion, and a desire to make a positive impact on the world.

FAQ

When is the scholarship application deadline?

The application deadline is Jun 1, 2024. Winners will be announced on Jul 1, 2024.

This scholarship has been awarded, but we have hundreds more!
Find a perfect scholarship now