In the quiet corridors of a memory care facility, I watched as a 90-year-old woman's eyes sparkled with recognition at the first notes of a familiar melody. Her frail hands, marked by years of experience, began to move in time with the music. This moment, seemingly small yet profoundly moving, encapsulates the driving force behind my journey to transform elderly care. It's a journey that began with a personal connection—my great-grandmother's battle with dementia—and has blossomed into a mission that touches the lives of thousands. My great-grandmother was a woman of immense intelligence and potential. Born in an era when women were often discouraged from pursuing higher education, she never had the opportunity to attend college. Despite this, her quick wit and insatiable curiosity were evident to all who knew her. As dementia slowly clouded her brilliant mind, I witnessed firsthand the cruel irony of a life full of unrealized academic dreams fading into cognitive decline. This experience ignited a fire within me—a determination to make a difference in the lives of seniors facing similar challenges. This determination led me to co-found Our Ode To You (OOTY), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing art and music into memory care facilities. What started as a small initiative has grown beyond our wildest dreams, touching the lives of over 1,000 seniors across 20 facilities. Each creative workshop we conduct is a testament to the power of art and music in awakening memories, fostering connections, and bringing joy to those often isolated by their conditions. One of our most poignant experiences involved Don, a former Carnegie Hall violinist now residing in a memory care facility. During one of our music workshops, we encouraged Don to play his violin. As he drew the bow across the strings, tears streamed down his face, and the entire room was moved by the beauty of his music. This moment crystallized for me the importance of preserving dignity and nurturing the talents of our elderly, even in the face of cognitive decline. It reminded me of my great-grandmother, and how she might have flourished given the opportunity to fully explore her intellectual gifts. OOTY's impact has extended far beyond the seniors we directly serve. We've mobilized volunteers from 15 schools, bridging generational gaps and fostering empathy among young people. Our first club meeting at my predominantly white school attracted over 70% students of color, becoming an unexpected catalyst for unity through diversity. This beautiful tapestry of backgrounds and experiences reminds me daily of the power of shared purpose and the universality of the human experience. Our work has resonated far beyond our local community. We've been featured in over 10 local and international news outlets, from Arcadia News to New India Abroad. I'll never forget the mixture of nerves and excitement as I went live on Good Morning Arizona, emphasizing the importance of intergenerational solidarity and the power of creative engagement in elderly care. These platforms have allowed us to amplify the voices of seniors who often go unheard and to advocate for better support systems for those facing cognitive challenges. Being chosen for the $5,000 Riley's Way Fellowship was a pivotal moment in our journey, as it provided resources to expand our reach and deepen our impact. It's humbling to think that what started as a small idea inspired by my great-grandmother's struggle has grown into a movement that's caught the attention of major organizations and media outlets. As I reflect on our journey, I'm struck by the countless heartwarming moments we've witnessed. There was the time a usually non-verbal resident burst into song during one of our music sessions, bringing tears to the eyes of the staff who had never heard her speak. Or the art workshop where a former architect, his hands shaky from Parkinson's, created a detailed sketch of his childhood home, unlocking a flood of memories he shared with us all. These moments are not just heartwarming; they're transformative, revealing the deep wells of personality and experience that persist even as cognitive function declines. Our creative workshops have become a lifeline for many residents and their families. I remember a daughter who approached us after a session, her eyes brimming with tears of joy. She told us it was the first time in months she had seen her father smile and engage with his surroundings. Or, the elderly lady who only spoke Farsi but communicated her graciousness by kissing my hand whilst tears were welling in her eyes. These moments of connection, however fleeting, are precious beyond measure to families grappling with the gradual loss of their loved ones to dementia. The impact of our work extends beyond the immediacy of the workshops. We've observed improvements in mood, socialization, and even cognitive function among regular participants. Staff at the facilities report decreased agitation and improved sleep patterns in residents following our creative sessions. These observations have fueled my interest in the intersection of creative therapies and traditional medical interventions for dementia and stroke patients. As I look to the future, I'm filled with a sense of purpose and possibility. My experiences with OOTY have solidified my decision to pursue a career in geriatric neuropsychology, with a focus on dementia and stroke rehabilitation. I'm particularly intrigued by recent research on the neuroprotective effects of creative activities in delaying the onset and progression of dementia. Studies have shown that engagement in art and music can stimulate neuroplasticity, potentially slowing cognitive decline. I aim to contribute to this field by conducting research on the long-term effects of sustained creative engagement on brain health in elderly populations. Furthermore, I'm committed to developing innovative rehabilitation programs for stroke survivors, incorporating elements of music and art therapy. The rhythmic and repetitive nature of music, for instance, has shown promise in improving motor function and speech in stroke patients. I envision creating comprehensive care programs that address not only the physical rehabilitation needs but also the emotional and cognitive well-being of stroke survivors. My journey with OOTY has taught me the importance of holistic care that goes beyond traditional medical interventions. I've seen how creative engagement can provide a sense of purpose and self-expression for seniors, many of whom feel marginalized or forgotten by society. This insight will inform my approach to geriatric care, ensuring that I always see the person behind the diagnosis, much as I saw the vibrant, intelligent woman my great-grandmother was, even as dementia took its toll. The Rosetta Richardson's Trailblazer Elderly Care Scholarship represents more than just financial support for my educational journey. It's a validation of the path I've chosen and a catalyst for the change I hope to bring to the field of elderly care. Just as Rosetta Richardson's story has inspired this opportunity, I hope my journey can inspire others to see the elderly not as patients to be managed, but as individuals with rich histories and untapped potential. Winning this scholarship would be a testament to my great-grandmother's legacy. It would honor the intelligence and curiosity that defined her, even as society failed to nurture her academic potential. In pursuing higher education and dedicating my career to elderly care, I'm not just fulfilling my own dreams but also carrying forward the unrealized aspirations of a generation of women who were denied such opportunities. As I stand at the crossroads of my future, I'm filled with a mix of excitement and reverence. The challenges in elderly care are immense, but so is the potential for impact. With every beat of music, every stroke of a paintbrush, we're not just passing time - we're creating moments of pure, unadulterated humanity. In these moments, I find my purpose, my passion, and my unwavering commitment to transforming elderly care. I dream of a future where creative therapies are an integral part of elderly care, where the wisdom and experiences of our seniors are valued and preserved, even as their cognitive functions decline. I envision care facilities filled with music, art, and laughter, where the focus is not just on extending life, but on enriching it. This vision drives me to pursue research, to advocate for policy changes, and to continue innovating in the field of geriatric care. The journey ahead is long, and the path is not always clear. But I draw strength from the resilience I've witnessed in the seniors we work with, from the dedication of their caregivers, and from the memory of my great-grandmother. Her unrealized potential fuels my determination to make a difference, to ensure that future generations of seniors receive the care, respect, and opportunities for engagement they deserve. As I conclude this reflection on my journey and aspirations, I'm reminded of a quote by the anthropologist Margaret Mead: "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has." This sentiment encapsulates the spirit of OOTY and my personal mission in elderly care. What started as a small initiative born from personal experience has grown into a movement that's changing lives and challenging perceptions of aging and cognitive decline. The Rosetta Richardson's Trailblazer Elderly Care Scholarship would not just be an investment in my education; it would be an investment in a future where elderly care is compassionate, innovative, and deeply respectful of the individuals it serves. It would allow me to continue the work I've started with OOTY while pursuing the academic knowledge and research skills needed to make a lasting impact in the field. As I think about the potential this scholarship represents, I'm filled with gratitude—for the experiences that have shaped my journey, for the seniors who have shared their stories and their hearts with us, and for visionaries like Rosetta Richardson who pave the way for future generations. I'm ready to take the next step in this journey, to honor my great-grandmother's memory, and to work tirelessly towards a future where every senior, regardless of their cognitive challenges, can live with dignity, purpose, and joy. In the end, this is about more than scholarships or career aspirations. It's about recognizing the inherent value in every human life, at every stage. It's about creating a society that cherishes its elders, that sees the beauty in their stories, and that works tirelessly to ensure their final chapters are filled with meaning and connection. With every workshop we conduct, every research paper I hope to write, and every patient I aim to serve, I'll be working towards this vision – a harmonious blend of science, creativity, and compassion in elderly care.

Growing up, my grandpa always emphasized how important it was to embrace change and find strength when facing difficulties. He would say, "Prati savālu edagaḍāniki oka avakāśaṁ, nā biḍḍa. Teliyani vāriki svāgataṁ, endukaṇṭē adi mīru evarini kāvālanē uddēśantō mim'malni tīrcididdutundi, or “Every challenge is a chance to grow, my child. Welcome the unfamiliar, for it will shape you into who you're meant to become." His words meant a lot to me as I went through the experience of being "the new kid" at multiple schools. It all started when I failed seventh grade at BASIS Phoenix and could not continue to eighth grade there. This setback forced me to transfer briefly to BPA for two weeks before landing at Veritas for eighth grade. Entering the mostly white environment at Veritas was intimidating. As one of the few minority students, I felt very isolated and scared at first. However, my grandpa's words echoed in my mind, reminding me to view this challenge as a chance to grow. Slowly but surely, I started to find my way. I made connections with other minority students who understood what I was going through. Together, we formed a supportive group, a safe space amid the unfamiliar surroundings. The next year, I transferred to Arcadia High School, another predominantly white school. But this time, I felt more resilient and confident from my previous experiences. I refused to be defined by my background or the challenges I faced. Instead, I embraced my uniqueness and used it to make a name for myself. Along with my new friends from diverse backgrounds, we started the AAPI (Asian American and Pacific Islander) club. This club became a sanctuary where our voices could be heard and our cultures celebrated. It gave us a strong sense of community and belonging. My journey didn't stop there. Inspired by my grandpa's spirit and love for the arts, a friend and I co-founded a non-profit called "Our Ode to You." Our goal was to reintroduce art and music to senior citizens battling dementia, reigniting their creative spark through those healing activities. Looking back, I'm so grateful for the lessons I learned as "the new kid." Those challenges shaped me into a resilient, empathetic and compassionate person. They fueled my drive to pursue sports medicine and medical anthropology, combining healthcare with an understanding of diverse cultures. My grandpa's words became my guiding light, reminding me that every obstacle provides a chance to grow, build connections, and make a lasting impact. As I move forward, I carry the wisdom and strength I gained from welcoming the unfamiliar—because it truly shaped me into who I'm meant to be.

Clam Blitz Craziness: Splatoon's Ultimate Cousin Teamwork Test "Ashni, get over here now!" I yelled, sweat dripping down my face. My little cousin snapped to attention, ready for action. With a shared yell, we jumped into Splatoon 2's intense Clam Blitz mode at Shellendorf Institute. Ink explosions filled the air as we scrambled for clams while dodging enemy attacks. "I'm splatted!" Ashni cried out from beside me. I looked around for any sight of a killer, but it was ABOVE ME! I could feel the charger aiming for me. No way was I losing my star clam collector so soon. We battled hard, grabbing every clam we could. I laid down covering ink while Ashni raced the clams into our basket at top speed. The bass music intensified as the timer ran down to overtime. But we weren't fazed—we actually thrived on the pressure. "Ashni, duck!" I super jumped to take out the enemies camping our basket. Ashni instantly capitalized, unleashing a barrage to smash their defenses. A volley of clams splattered home, giving us the lead in an incredible multi-burst sequence. But this was only the beginning. We pushed ourselves to the limit, fighting for every inch of territory. I called out precise instructions that Ashni followed perfectly, our shouts carrying across the room. We could read each other's minds through glances and positioning. With seconds left, I saw an enemy going for our exposed basket. Straining my ink reserves, I painted a barrier to stop them. "Not on my watch!" I shouted. The final clam blitzed home at the buzzer. Yes! I pumped my fist, savoring the sweet victory music blasting from the speakers. That hard-fought win was so satisfying. Ashni and I had laughed, screamed, and worked seamlessly as a team to secure the shellfish supremacy. As we grinned at each other, I realized my little cousin was a splat prodigy—my earlier doubts about her skills were shattered. Those intense, heart-pounding Clam Blitz sessions took Splatoon 2's co-op to the ultimate level. We'd pull off the craziest comebacks through pure teamwork. Our strong bond was permanently inked. So keep bringing the fresh co-op action, Nintendo. Just be warned—Ashni and I will rise to any challenge and claim supremacy through our unstoppable cousin teamwork!

Feminism is more than what people think. It is not just replying to misogynistic comments online. It is realizing that people will always be bolder while anonymous and maturely closing the device. It is not just sporting a colorful appearance and ticking off everyone. It is about the mentality of helping women succeed. When you are a feminist, you have every woman in mind, of all colors, of all sexualities, no matter what. A feminist is not afraid of telling people they’re wrong, but also knows where the boundaries are. A feminist has to be mature, no matter the age. A feminist is not just a label for women, but for men, and every other person. Feminists can only succeed when in groups, like every other movement. Most of all, a feminist has to keep in mind that they are not the only movement in existence. We must not go back to the days when feminism was separated by color. Modern-day feminism involves everyone. Feminism is so important because it yearns to remove misogyny from everyday life. While equality cannot realistically be fully achieved, feminists keep on going. An inspirational person to me is Jane Goodall, as she is one of the leading female animal scientists who has achieved breakthrough discoveries in primates. She has inspired me not only with her work but with her mentality. Goodall does not refer to herself as a feminist, but she has said one key thing: Women do not need to emphasize their masculine characteristics to succeed, feminine characteristics in male-dominated fields can succeed as well. This is so important to me because as a woman heading into a male-dominated field, I know what I am getting myself into. I am contributing to the feminist movement in my community by simply not tolerating any kind of behavior that does not aid women. As a person of color, I am also aiding the movement by providing a diverse opinion to society. As I have attended PWIs with little to no representation, I yearn to create an open environment to make everyone feel involved. To succeed as a feminist, I take into consideration everyone’s opinion, even ones that I do not agree with. Today, I take advantage of the opportunities of our current advancements in society to further advance feminism as a whole. This includes, but is not limited to social media and online services. As time passes, feminism has no choice but to get stronger and stronger each day.