I suffered from mental health battles which have been ongoing since I was a little girl. I remember one of many instances crying profusely to my science teacher in 7th grade because I had no else to cry to. My childhood was a miserable time. Growing into adulthood, those mental health battles became heavier and heavier to maintain. Mental health was not a topic anyone around me, friends, family or community spoke about. It was not even a taboo topic, it was a topic no one had any idea about. Therefore, growing up I had no idea mental health was health. Fast forward years later, in 2024, I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder and ADHD which made sense after all these years of being unmedicated. I could not finish anything. I was constantly running after the next career, the next travel destination, the next trend, etc. Now, exactly 12 years later after earning my bachelor's, I am medicated with a clear goal of becoming a physical therapist. This is what I want to do for the rest of my life. It's vulnerable writing this in an essay for scholarship hoping to be chosen but I realize I am not 'unique' just because I suffer with my mental health. However, what makes me unique is owning my story, being proud of how far I've come vocalizing and advocating for mental health. My journey with mental health does not stop here just because I am a doctorate student but it continues as I grow and step into different aspects of my life. This one short life that I have should be lived with purpose, meaning and celebration. I should celebrate the life that I have with all the blessings within it. My recovery involves removing the feelings of guilt and shame associated with mental health and forgiving myself for all the mistakes that I made knowingly and unknowingly while being undiagnosed. Now that I understand who I am, I can live my life without self-blame and pity. I have been able to prioritized my mental health, with a few mental health professionals who helped me during this journey. I will always prioritize my mental health. Although it has been a very challenging program, my goal is to complete my doctorate in physical therapy which is rooted in a profound sense of purpose – a commitment to change lives and make a positive impact. I am Amal, the literal translation of hope in Arabic, and I am here to embody that hope, to help physically restrained individuals rehabilitate successfully, and to guide them towards physically independent lives. This calling has been shaped by my experiences and observations, driving me to pursue a course of study that aligns with my mission. Choosing physical therapy is not merely an academic pursuit; it is a manifestation of my life's purpose. My career objectives center around being a change agent, addressing disparities in healthcare, and contributing to a world where every person can access the care they need to lead a physically independent and fulfilling life. I am Amal, and I am here to be the hope that this world so desperately needs. I commend myself for being strong on this earth, inspiring my family and others to advocate for themselves and their mental health.

Everything happens for a reason. Hard life lessons morphed me into the resilient person I am today. Why do I want to become a physical therapist? My sister Sedika has struggled with Sickle Cell Disease from birth. Seeing her overcome her struggles has inspired me to become a physical therapist. Being a melanated female of color, my color follows me everywhere. My sister too was constantly judged about her pain and abused in hospitals by healthcare staff. I witnessed her suffering from challenges with Sickle Cell Disease firsthand. I was inspired because I had seen a huge transformation. As her individual care provider, her strength and resilience ultimately inspired me to become a physical therapist. Being a physical therapist is a big deal and I can change many lives especially individuals of color suffering from blood disorders like Sickle-Cell disease. I want to change people's lives by delivering high quality care with compassion. I owe to myself, my sister and other people of color suffering from life-altering diseases to advocate for equal non-bias treatment. I want to create awareness about the healthcare abuse faced by people of color like my sister. It happens everyday unfortunately however, I want to make a change because it happens way too often. As an underrepresented minority in the field of physical therapy, it is a rare occurrence to be a hijabi. I was always different which has always been a constant variable and assimilation was an impossible task. I was bullied as the only Arab Muslim female wearing the hijab in high school other students threw lunch food at me. Countless times during school, I have heard the phrases, "You can't. You won't. You shouldn't". Although it was an incredibly dark experience, I kept going. I was invincible and transformed my pain into mental strength and eventually compassion. Those experiences forced me to dig deep and gain a sense of compassion towards myself, others and those who meant me harm. Through my experiences, I believe compassion is the foundation of becoming a physical therapist. This brings me back to my original question of why do I want to become a physical therapist. Becoming a physical therapist will provide me with the necessary tools to help transition individuals from physically-constrained lives to full independence, like my sister. As future a physical therapist of color, I will share my varied experiences to contribute to a better world. This opportunity will guide me in preparation to meet future challenges with both feet grounded and an exceptional opportunity to pursue my dreams assisting others. I am grateful to apply to this scholarship and I know I will make a difference in this world which I believe I already have.

My unique journey in the field of physical therapy is rooted in a profound sense of purpose – a commitment to change lives and make a positive impact. I am Amal, the literal translation of hope in Arabic, and I am here to embody that hope, to help physically restrained individuals rehabilitate successfully, and to guide them towards physically independent lives. This calling has been shaped by my experiences and observations, driving me to pursue a course of study that aligns with my mission. Why do I really want to become a physical therapist? My sister Sedika has struggled with Sickle Cell Disease from birth. Seeing her overcome her struggles has inspired me to become a physical therapist. The physical therapists my sister visited incorporated me and my family into the therapy sessions and demonstrated the exercises for her rehabilitation. I learned how to help my sister rehabilitate whilst in chronic pain into independence. As a result of this experience, I was inspired by my sister’s strength, resilience and miraculous transformation through her consistent physical therapy. Ultimately, inspiring me to become a physical therapist myself. Individuals living with chronic pain need people like myself who understand their needs. Physical therapy truly changes lives just like my sister's life. Now it's my turn to change lives. My goal is to create an international non-profit titled, “The Amal Foundation” to help individuals become physically independent by providing physical therapy solutions, prosthetics and mobility aids. Again, my name Amal inspires me to provide hope and change the world for the better. I foresee the future of the Amal Foundation, a non-profit organization, embodying integrity and compassion will always be at the core of my philosophy as I embark on this journey to become a physical therapist. Through my firsthand experiences, I have witnessed the transformative power of these qualities in the realm of healthcare. I firmly believe that successful patient rehabilitation is intricately linked to the presence of integrity and compassion in the therapeutic relationship. The challenges faced by chronically ill patients are immense, and it is crucial that their interactions with healthcare professionals are marked by stress-free and comfortable experiences. The disparities faced by chronically ill patients, particularly those from black and brown communities, are an unfortunate reality. My sister's experiences and those of countless others have highlighted the prevalence of medical racism and discrimination in hospital settings. It is a stark reminder that representation matters in healthcare. As a member of a disadvantaged minority myself, I am acutely aware of the importance of delivering excellent quality care with integrity and compassion to address these disparities and strive for better health outcomes. My career objectives extend beyond personal success to encompass a broader vision of societal change. I aim to be a catalyst for positive transformations in healthcare, advocating for inclusivity, diversity, and equitable access to quality care. By pursuing physical therapy, I am equipping myself with the knowledge and skills needed to contribute meaningfully to the lives of those who need it the most. After I graduate from physical therapy school, I plan to motivate others to pursue this career as representation matters! In summary, my chosen course of study is not merely an academic pursuit; it is a manifestation of my life's purpose. My career objectives center around being a change agent, addressing disparities in healthcare, and contributing to a world where every person can access the care they need to lead a physically independent and fulfilling life. I am Amal, and I am here to be the hope that this world so desperately needs.

My unique journey in the field of physical therapy is rooted in a profound sense of purpose – a commitment to change lives and make a positive impact. I am Amal, the literal translation of hope in Arabic, and I am here to embody that hope, to help physically restrained individuals rehabilitate successfully, and to guide them towards physically independent lives. This calling has been shaped by my experiences and observations, driving me to pursue a course of study that aligns with my mission. Why do I really want to become a physical therapist? My sister Sedika has struggled with Sickle Cell Disease from birth. Seeing her overcome her struggles has inspired me to become a physical therapist. The physical therapists my sister visited incorporated me and my family into the therapy sessions and demonstrated the exercises for her rehabilitation. I learned how to help my sister rehabilitate whilst in chronic pain into independence. As a result of this experience, I was inspired by my sister’s strength, resilience and miraculous transformation through her consistent physical therapy. Ultimately, inspiring me to become a physical therapist myself. Individuals living with chronic pain need people like myself who understand their needs. Physical therapy truly changes lives just like my sister's life. Now it's my turn to change lives. My goal is to create an international non-profit titled, “The Amal Foundation” to help individuals become physically independent by providing physical therapy solutions, prosthetics and mobility aids. Again, my name Amal inspires me to provide hope and change the world for the better. I foresee the future of the Amal Foundation, a non-profit organization, embodying integrity and compassion will always be at the core of my philosophy as I embark on this journey to become a physical therapist. Through my firsthand experiences, I have witnessed the transformative power of these qualities in the realm of healthcare. I firmly believe that successful patient rehabilitation is intricately linked to the presence of integrity and compassion in the therapeutic relationship. The challenges faced by chronically ill patients are immense, and it is crucial that their interactions with healthcare professionals are marked by stress-free and comfortable experiences. The disparities faced by chronically ill patients, particularly those from black and brown communities, are an unfortunate reality. My sister's experiences and those of countless others have highlighted the prevalence of medical racism and discrimination in hospital settings. It is a stark reminder that representation matters in healthcare. As a member of a disadvantaged minority myself, I am acutely aware of the importance of delivering excellent quality care with integrity and compassion to address these disparities and strive for better health outcomes. My career objectives extend beyond personal success to encompass a broader vision of societal change. I aim to be a catalyst for positive transformations in healthcare, advocating for inclusivity, diversity, and equitable access to quality care. By pursuing physical therapy, I am equipping myself with the knowledge and skills needed to contribute meaningfully to the lives of those who need it the most. After I graduate from physical therapy school, I plan to motivate others to pursue this career as representation matters! In summary, my chosen course of study is not merely an academic pursuit; it is a manifestation of my life's purpose. My career objectives center around being a change agent, addressing disparities in healthcare, and contributing to a world where every person can access the care they need to lead a physically independent and fulfilling life. I am Amal, and I am here to be the hope that this world so desperately needs.

My unique journey in the field of physical therapy is rooted in a profound sense of purpose – a commitment to change lives and make a positive impact. I am Amal, the literal translation of hope in Arabic, and I am here to embody that hope, to help physically restrained individuals rehabilitate successfully, and to guide them towards physically independent lives. This calling has been shaped by my experiences and observations, driving me to pursue a course of study that aligns with my mission. Why do I really want to become a physical therapist? My sister Sedika has struggled with Sickle Cell Disease from birth. Seeing her overcome her struggles has inspired me to become a physical therapist. I witnessed her suffering with Sickle Cell Disease firsthand with extreme debilitating pain to the point where she was unable to move her body. She suffered a stroke at 14 years old, then had a spinal infection leading to losing a portion of her vertebrae. At 18 years old and 90 pounds she was newly diagnosed with scoliosis and wore a brace for 6 months. She suffered another stroke at 25, followed by a hip replacement at 26. It was extremely hard living with a chronically ill sibling; consequently, I was diagnosed with depression and anxiety from a young age. I would wake up to EMTs because my sister had constant crises throughout the night. I was always crying and sad because she would spend weeks in the hospital. She suffered through life-altering procedures and organ failures causing irreversible body damage. The disparities faced by chronically ill patients, particularly those from black and brown communities, are an unfortunate reality. My sister's experiences and those of countless others have highlighted the prevalence of medical racism and discrimination in hospital settings. It is a stark reminder that representation matters in healthcare. As a member of a disadvantaged minority myself, I am acutely aware of the importance of delivering excellent quality care with integrity and compassion to address these disparities and strive for better health outcomes. My career objectives extend beyond personal success to encompass a broader vision of societal change. I aim to be a catalyst for positive transformations in healthcare, advocating for inclusivity, diversity, and equitable access to quality care. By pursuing physical therapy, I am equipping myself with the knowledge and skills needed to contribute meaningfully to the lives of those who need it the most. Within my career, I plan to continue traveling the world and living overseas, others were so inspired by my outward 'success'. Being from Yemen there are not many females like myself pursuing physical therapy as a career. After I graduate from physical therapy school, I plan to motivate others to pursue this career as representation matters! I want to be a source of hope to my community as one of the few Arab female physical therapists in the Chicagoland area and the world. In summary, my chosen course of study is not merely an academic pursuit; it is a manifestation of my life's purpose. I am driven by the belief that every individual, regardless of their health condition or background, deserves compassionate and ethical care. My career objectives center around being a change agent, addressing disparities in healthcare, and contributing to a world where every person can access the care they need to lead a physically independent and fulfilling life. I am Amal, and I am here to be the hope that this world so desperately needs.

As an underrepresented minority in the field of physical therapy, it is a rare occurrence to be a hijabi. I was always different which has always been a constant variable and assimilation was an impossible task. I was bullied as the only Arab Muslim female wearing the hijab in high school other students threw lunch food at me. Countless times during school, I have heard the phrases, "You can't. You won't. You shouldn't". Although it was an incredibly dark experience, I kept going. I was invincible and transformed my pain into mental strength and eventually compassion. Those experiences forced me to dig deep and gain a sense of compassion towards myself, others and those who meant me harm. Through my experiences, I believe compassion is the foundation of becoming a physical therapist. Years later, I managed to visit over 20 countries in Africa, Europe and the Middle East and relocated to Saudi Arabia. Traveling and relocating my life helped me learn about people from different cultures. It has been one of the best self-investments and encouraged me to further appreciate my own culture and background. Traveling has given me cultural competency, an essential skill as a future physical therapist. Travelling removes biases, increases effective communication and impactful connections with patients. I plan to ensure best practice to patients with diverse beliefs and values. As a future physical therapist, I believe my lived experiences will positively impact my patients rehabilitation and wellbeing. Fast forward to my life now, I believe all my experiences have shaped my character which reminds me of kintsugi, a form of Japanese art which repairs and transforms broken ceramic pieces with gold. Every scar and wrinkle I own has a story and every time and reflecting on my life, two words come to mind: resilience and healing. As a future student, I have so much to offer the world with my unique experiences which I believe will positively contribute to a culture of inclusion at Augustana University and as a physical therapist. Although I started my student physical therapist journey at another institution, it was not a suitable environment and I believe a hybrid program will allow me to focus on learning and studying in a safe environment from the comfort of my own home. It was not an easy decision to withdraw myself from a DPT program. However, my growth as a person over the years has taught me that my mental health is health. Sacrificing my health and sanity will only break me, not build me. I want to successfully build my future in physical therapy with a strong foundation.

Traveling the world and living overseas, others were so inspired by my outward 'success'. Being from the Middle East, specifically Yemen there are not many females like myself pursuing physical therapy as a career. After I graduate from physical therapy school, I plan to motivate others to pursue this career as representation matters! My name Amal means hope in Arabic. Naturally, I want to be a source of hope to my community as one of the few Arab female physical therapists in the Chicagoland area and internationally. Fortunately, there are so many doctors in the migrant/non-migrant Arab community but the community as a whole is plagued by medical conditions that occur generally with unhealthy lifestyles. During my undergraduate career, I pursued kinesiology courses to become a physical therapist. However, I decided to pursue a non-conventional path that involved traveling, and A decade later, I am certain that physical therapy is the career for me. The visible disparities faced by chronically ill patients, particularly those from black and brown communities, are an unfortunate reality. My sister's experiences and those of countless others have highlighted the prevalence of medical racism and discrimination in hospital settings. It is a stark reminder that representation matters in healthcare. As a member of a disadvantaged minority myself, I am acutely aware of the importance of delivering excellent quality care with integrity and compassion to address these disparities and strive for better health outcomes. Within my career, I plan to continue traveling the world and living overseas, others were so inspired by my outward 'success'. Being from Yemen there are not many females like myself pursuing physical therapy as a career. After I graduate from physical therapy school, I plan to motivate others to pursue this career as representation matters! I want to be a source of hope to my community as one of the few Arab female physical therapists in the Chicagoland area and the world. As a physical therapist, I plan on dedicating my time to studying the lifestyle of Arab Americans and then establishing a research-based program that fits within their lifestyle to motivate people to implement my programs. Therefore, my goal is twofold: the first is to contribute academically through research to transcend strictly academic rhetoric and to move my research into the lifestyle of people. Although it is easy to say that I would like to change the world, I would rather streamline my goal to motivate and encourage health and wellness in my local community. My future goals reflect my commitment to diversity and inclusion and my mission of serving society as a world-class trained physical therapist. My future is unlimited extending beyond my success to encompass a broader vision of societal change. I aim to be a catalyst for positive transformations in healthcare, advocating for inclusivity, diversity, and equitable access to quality care. By pursuing physical therapy, I am equipping myself with the knowledge and skills needed to contribute meaningfully to the lives of those who need it the most.

Traveling the world and living overseas, others were so inspired by my outward 'success'. Being from the Middle East, specifically Yemen there are not many females like myself pursuing physical therapy as a career. I am also a first generation college student. In essence, I believe I was born prepared. I had no idea that college would open so many doors for me but I managed to keep going.. After I graduate from physical therapy school, I plan to motivate others to pursue this career as representation matters! My name Amal means hope in Arabic. Naturally, I want to be a source of hope to my community as one of the few Arab female physical therapists in the Chicagoland area and internationally. Fortunately, there are so many doctors in the migrant/non-migrant Arab community but the community as a whole is plagued by medical conditions that occur generally with unhealthy lifestyles. During my undergraduate career, I pursued kinesiology courses to become a physical therapist. However, I decided to pursue a non-conventional path that involved traveling, and A decade later, I am certain that physical therapy is the career for me. The visible disparities faced by chronically ill patients, particularly those from black and brown communities, are an unfortunate reality. My sister's experiences and those of countless others have highlighted the prevalence of medical racism and discrimination in hospital settings. It is a stark reminder that representation matters in healthcare. As a member of a disadvantaged minority myself, I am acutely aware of the importance of delivering excellent quality care with integrity and compassion to address these disparities and strive for better health outcomes. Within my career, I plan to continue traveling the world and living overseas, others were so inspired by my outward 'success'. Being from Yemen there are not many females like myself pursuing physical therapy as a career. After I graduate from physical therapy school, I plan to motivate others to pursue this career as representation matters! I want to be a source of hope to my community as one of the few Arab female physical therapists in the Chicagoland area and the world. As a physical therapist, I plan on dedicating my time to studying the lifestyle of Arab Americans and then establishing a research-based program that fits within their lifestyle to motivate people to implement my programs. Therefore, my goal is twofold: the first is to contribute academically through research to transcend strictly academic rhetoric and to move my research into the lifestyle of people. Although it is easy to say that I would like to change the world, I would rather streamline my goal to motivate and encourage health and wellness in my local community. My future goals reflect my commitment to diversity and inclusion and my mission of serving society as a world-class trained physical therapist. My future is unlimited extending beyond my success to encompass a broader vision of societal change. I aim to be a catalyst for positive transformations in healthcare, advocating for inclusivity, diversity, and equitable access to quality care. By pursuing physical therapy, I am equipping myself with the knowledge and skills needed to contribute meaningfully to the lives of those who need it the most.

Traveling the world and living overseas, others were so inspired by my outward 'success'. Being from the Middle East, specifically Yemen there are not many females like myself pursuing physical therapy as a career. After I graduate from physical therapy school, I plan to motivate others to pursue this career as representation matters! My name Amal means hope in Arabic. Naturally, I want to be a source of hope to my community as one of the few Arab female physical therapists in the Chicagoland area and internationally. Fortunately, there are so many doctors in the migrant/non-migrant Arab community but the community as a whole is plagued by medical conditions that occur generally with unhealthy lifestyles. During my undergraduate career, I pursued kinesiology courses to become a physical therapist. However, I decided to pursue a non-conventional path that involved traveling, and A decade later, I am certain that physical therapy is the career for me. The visible disparities faced by chronically ill patients, particularly those from black and brown communities, are an unfortunate reality. My sister's experiences and those of countless others have highlighted the prevalence of medical racism and discrimination in hospital settings. It is a stark reminder that representation matters in healthcare. As a member of a disadvantaged minority myself, I am acutely aware of the importance of delivering excellent quality care with integrity and compassion to address these disparities and strive for better health outcomes. Within my career, I plan to continue traveling the world and living overseas, others were so inspired by my outward 'success'. Being from Yemen there are not many females like myself pursuing physical therapy as a career. After I graduate from physical therapy school, I plan to motivate others to pursue this career as representation matters! I want to be a source of hope to my community as one of the few Arab female physical therapists in the Chicagoland area and the world. As a physical therapist, I plan on dedicating my time to studying the lifestyle of Arab Americans and then establishing a research-based program that fits within their lifestyle to motivate people to implement my programs. Therefore, my goal is twofold: the first is to contribute academically through research to transcend strictly academic rhetoric and to move my research into the lifestyle of people. Although it is easy to say that I would like to change the world, I would rather streamline my goal to motivate and encourage health and wellness in my local community. My future goals reflect my commitment to diversity and inclusion and my mission of serving society as a world-class trained physical therapist. My future is unlimited extending beyond my success to encompass a broader vision of societal change. I aim to be a catalyst for positive transformations in healthcare, advocating for inclusivity, diversity, and equitable access to quality care. By pursuing physical therapy, I am equipping myself with the knowledge and skills needed to contribute meaningfully to the lives of those who need it the most.

Traveling the world and living overseas, others were so inspired by my outward 'success'. Being from the Middle East, specifically Yemen there are not many females like myself pursuing physical therapy as a career. After I graduate from physical therapy school, I plan to motivate others to pursue this career as representation matters! My name Amal means hope in Arabic. Naturally, I want to be a source of hope to my community as one of the few Arab female physical therapists in the Chicagoland area and internationally. Fortunately, there are so many doctors in the migrant/non-migrant Arab community but the community as a whole is plagued by medical conditions that occur generally with unhealthy lifestyles. During my undergraduate career, I pursued kinesiology courses to become a physical therapist. However, I decided to pursue a non-conventional path that involved traveling, and A decade later, I am certain that physical therapy is the career for me. The visible disparities faced by chronically ill patients, particularly those from black and brown communities, are an unfortunate reality. My sister's experiences and those of countless others have highlighted the prevalence of medical racism and discrimination in hospital settings. It is a stark reminder that representation matters in healthcare. As a member of a disadvantaged minority myself, I am acutely aware of the importance of delivering excellent quality care with integrity and compassion to address these disparities and strive for better health outcomes. Within my career, I plan to continue traveling the world and living overseas, others were so inspired by my outward 'success'. Being from Yemen there are not many females like myself pursuing physical therapy as a career. After I graduate from physical therapy school, I plan to motivate others to pursue this career as representation matters! I want to be a source of hope to my community as one of the few Arab female physical therapists in the Chicagoland area and the world. As a physical therapist, I plan on dedicating my time to studying the lifestyle of Arab Americans and then establishing a research-based program that fits within their lifestyle to motivate people to implement my programs. Therefore, my goal is twofold: the first is to contribute academically through research to transcend strictly academic rhetoric and to move my research into the lifestyle of people. Although it is easy to say that I would like to change the world, I would rather streamline my goal to motivate and encourage health and wellness in my local community. My future goals reflect my commitment to diversity and inclusion and my mission of serving society as a world-class trained physical therapist. My future is unlimited extending beyond my success to encompass a broader vision of societal change. I aim to be a catalyst for positive transformations in healthcare, advocating for inclusivity, diversity, and equitable access to quality care. By pursuing physical therapy, I am equipping myself with the knowledge and skills needed to contribute meaningfully to the lives of those who need it the most.

Traveling the world and living overseas, others were so inspired by my outward 'success'. Being from the Middle East, specifically Yemen there are not many females like myself pursuing physical therapy as a career. After I graduate from physical therapy school, I plan to motivate others to pursue this career as representation matters! My name Amal means hope in Arabic. Naturally, I want to be a source of hope to my community as one of the few Arab female physical therapists in the Chicagoland area and internationally. Fortunately, there are so many doctors in the migrant/non-migrant Arab community but the community as a whole is plagued by medical conditions that occur generally with unhealthy lifestyles. During my undergraduate career, I pursued kinesiology courses to become a physical therapist. However, I decided to pursue a non-conventional path that involved traveling, and A decade later, I am certain that physical therapy is the career for me. The visible disparities faced by chronically ill patients, particularly those from black and brown communities, are an unfortunate reality. My sister's experiences and those of countless others have highlighted the prevalence of medical racism and discrimination in hospital settings. It is a stark reminder that representation matters in healthcare. As a member of a disadvantaged minority myself, I am acutely aware of the importance of delivering excellent quality care with integrity and compassion to address these disparities and strive for better health outcomes. Within my career, I plan to continue traveling the world and living overseas, others were so inspired by my outward 'success'. Being from Yemen there are not many females like myself pursuing physical therapy as a career. After I graduate from physical therapy school, I plan to motivate others to pursue this career as representation matters! I want to be a source of hope to my community as one of the few Arab female physical therapists in the Chicagoland area and the world. As a physical therapist, I plan on dedicating my time to studying the lifestyle of Arab Americans and then establishing a research-based program that fits within their lifestyle to motivate people to implement my programs. Therefore, my goal is twofold: the first is to contribute academically through research to transcend strictly academic rhetoric and to move my research into the lifestyle of people. Although it is easy to say that I would like to change the world, I would rather streamline my goal to motivate and encourage health and wellness in my local community. My future goals reflect my commitment to diversity and inclusion and my mission of serving society as a world-class trained physical therapist. My future is unlimited extending beyond my success to encompass a broader vision of societal change. I aim to be a catalyst for positive transformations in healthcare, advocating for inclusivity, diversity, and equitable access to quality care. By pursuing physical therapy, I am equipping myself with the knowledge and skills needed to contribute meaningfully to the lives of those who need it the most.

My experiences with mental health have had a profound influence on my beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations. As a cultural liaison for the Department of State in Saudi Arabia, I initially thought that this was my lifelong career path, blending my American background and native Arabic fluency to facilitate connections between Saudi students and U.S. educational opportunities. However, it was during this time that I encountered a pivotal moment that changed the trajectory of my life. The work culture at the State Department was extremely difficult on my mental health - due to the burnout culture. While I was still in Saudi Arabia, I had the privilege of meeting Lama Basri, a sports physical therapist. It was in a gym, where I had taken physical therapy appointments, that I witnessed her work and its transformative impact on people's lives. It was at that moment that I felt a deep calling within me. I realized that my true passion lay in the field of physical therapy, where I could make a tangible difference in the lives of those in need. Now, you may wonder, why would I embark on this path at the age of 33. The answer lies in the difficult life lessons I have learned. My younger sister, Sedika, has battled Sickle Cell Disease since birth. Her journey has been one of immense suffering, marked by excruciating pain and prolonged hospital stays. Witnessing her struggles, and the toll it took on our family, had a profound impact on me. I, too, faced my battles with depression and anxiety as a result of this ongoing trauma. However, it was amid this hardship that I saw the incredible power of physical therapy. I watched as my sister underwent physical therapy and, through sheer determination and the expertise of her therapists, transformed her life. It was a remarkable journey of resilience and healing. Her story illuminated the crucial role played by compassionate therapists in the rehabilitation process. Choosing physical therapy helped my mental health because I love the field. Through these experiences, I have developed a deep understanding of the significance of physical therapy and the transformative power it holds. I firmly believe that integrity and compassion are the cornerstones of successful patient rehabilitation. For chronically ill patients, their journey is fraught with challenges, and it is essential that their medical care is not just effective but also delivered with empathy and integrity. Unfortunately, I have also witnessed the lack of ethics and integrity in healthcare settings, a troubling issue that can exacerbate trauma and hinder the recovery process. This issue is especially pronounced for chronically ill patients from marginalized communities, who often face disparities due to medical racism and discrimination. As a member of such a community, I am deeply committed to providing equitable healthcare and advocating for better representation in the field. My approach to my physical therapy career will help patients through their rehabilitation process. So, why do I want to become a physical therapist? My decision is grounded in a combination of personal experiences, a clear vision, and an unwavering commitment to addressing healthcare disparities. This scholarship will play a crucial role in enabling me to achieve my goal of becoming a physical therapist, armed with the tools and knowledge necessary to make a difference in the lives of individuals like my sister. I bring to this journey resilience, empathy, and a profound sense of purpose. These qualities are essential for a successful physical therapist, and I am confident that I can deliver meaningful and positive care to the patients I serve. Just as Catrina's commitment to equitable healthcare representation has inspired me, I, too, am dedicated to helping individuals across all communities and advocating for healthcare that is truly accessible to all.

Everything happens for a reason. As a cultural liaison for the Department of State in Saudi Arabia for four years, I thought it was my career forever. As an American and native Arabic speaker, I traveled throughout Saudi Arabia and the Middle East delivering presentations to prospective Saudi students regarding the U.S. application process to college and graduate schools. Amid my experiences at the U.S. Mission in Saudi Arabia, I developed resiliency and enhanced my diverse background and transferable skills to find my true calling. I encountered a particularly inspiring Saudi woman, Lama Basri, a sports physical therapist whom I met in a gym taking physical therapy appointments. When I witnessed her work, making people feel better, I wanted to be like that. My passion is required for meeting the multilayered needs presented by patients in need of physical therapy. Why do I want to become a physical therapist AT 33 years old? Hard life lessons morphed me into the resilient person I am today. My sister Sedika has struggled with Sickle Cell Disease from birth. Seeing her overcome her struggles has inspired me to become a physical therapist. I witnessed her suffering from Sickle Cell Disease with extremely debilitating pain to the point where she experienced total immobility. Consequently, I was diagnosed with depression and anxiety from a young age. I would wake up to EMTs because my sister had constant crises throughout the night. I was always crying and sad because she would spend weeks in the hospital. She suffered through life-altering procedures and organ failures causing her irreversible body damage. As a result of the experiences and challenges I faced, I have a deep understanding of the importance of physical therapy and inspiration from my sister’s strength and resilience through physical therapy. Witnessing her miraculous transformation, her story highlights the power of rehabilitation and the role of a compassionate therapist. Throughout my experiences and observations, I believe I will make a positive impact on this world through integrity and compassion which are necessary qualities to becoming a successful physical therapist. I have witnessed firsthand how integrity and compassion can change lives key to successful patient rehabilitation. Chronically ill patients face many challenges, therefore, their doctor visits and treatments should be stress-free and comfortable. The lack of ethics and integrity in healthcare settings from my observations can cause trauma and PTSD, deterring chronically ill patients from receiving adequate care and inhibiting successful recovery for years. Unfortunately, my sister and many other chronically ill patients from black and brown communities often face disparities due to medical racism and discrimination in hospital settings. Representation matters when addressing racial disparities in healthcare, and as a disadvantaged minority myself, I plan to deliver excellent quality care with integrity and compassion for better health outcomes which reflects my commitment and responsibility toward marginalized communities. This brings me back to my original question of why I want to become a physical therapist. At this age, my decision to become a physical therapist is motivated by a powerful combination of experiences, a clear vision, and a strong commitment to addressing healthcare disparities. This scholarship will be spent toward the physical therapy school tuition to achieve my ultimate goal of becoming a physical therapist which will provide me with the necessary tools to help transition individuals from physically constrained lives to full independence, like my sister. If I receive the scholarship, I will be forever grateful and will undoubtedly deliver meaningful and positive care to the patients I serve and have an unwavering commitment to equitable healthcare representation.

Everything happens for a reason. As a cultural liaison for the Department of State in Saudi Arabia for four years, I thought it was my career forever. As an American and native Arabic speaker, I traveled throughout Saudi Arabia and the Middle East delivering presentations to prospective Saudi students regarding the U.S. application process to college and graduate schools. Amid my experiences at the U.S. Mission in Saudi Arabia, I developed resiliency and enhanced my diverse background and transferable skills to find my true calling. I encountered a particularly inspiring Saudi woman, Lama Basri, a sports physical therapist whom I met in a gym taking physical therapy appointments. When I witnessed her work, making people feel better, I wanted to be like that. My passion is required for meeting the multilayered needs presented by patients in need of physical therapy. Why do I want to become a physical therapist AT 33 years old? Hard life lessons morphed me into the resilient person I am today. My sister Sedika has struggled with Sickle Cell Disease from birth. Seeing her overcome her struggles has inspired me to become a physical therapist. I witnessed her suffering from Sickle Cell Disease with extremely debilitating pain to the point where she experienced total immobility. Consequently, I was diagnosed with depression and anxiety from a young age. I would wake up to EMTs because my sister had constant crises throughout the night. I was always crying and sad because she would spend weeks in the hospital. She suffered through life-altering procedures and organ failures causing her irreversible body damage. As a result of the experiences and challenges I faced, I have a deep understanding of the importance of physical therapy and inspiration from my sister’s strength and resilience through physical therapy. Witnessing her miraculous transformation, her story highlights the power of rehabilitation and the role of a compassionate therapist. Throughout my experiences and observations, I believe I will make a positive impact on this world through integrity and compassion which are necessary qualities to becoming a successful physical therapist. I have witnessed firsthand how integrity and compassion can change lives key to successful patient rehabilitation. Chronically ill patients face many challenges, therefore, their doctor visits and treatments should be stress-free and comfortable. The lack of ethics and integrity in healthcare settings from my observations can cause trauma and PTSD, deterring chronically ill patients from receiving adequate care and inhibiting successful recovery for years. Unfortunately, my sister and many other chronically ill patients from black and brown communities often face disparities due to medical racism and discrimination in hospital settings. Representation matters when addressing racial disparities in healthcare, and as a disadvantaged minority myself, I plan to deliver excellent quality care with integrity and compassion for better health outcomes which reflects my commitment and responsibility toward marginalized communities. This brings me back to my original question of why I want to become a physical therapist. At this age, my decision to become a physical therapist is motivated by a powerful combination of experiences, a clear vision, and a strong commitment to addressing healthcare disparities. This scholarship will help toward my goal of becoming a PT which will provide me with the necessary tools to help transition individuals from physically constrained lives to full independence, like my sister. I am resilient and empathetic with a strong sense of purpose, all essential qualities for a successful physical therapist. I will undoubtedly deliver meaningful and positive care to the patients I serve. Similar to Catrina, I am committed to helping people throughout all communities by advocating for equitable healthcare representation.