As a first-generation immigrant pursuing a Master’s in Biotechnology at New York University, my journey has been driven by resilience, curiosity, and an unwavering passion for innovation in STEM. My academic foundation, established through earning a 3.6 GPA in my undergraduate studies at Rajalakshmi Engineering College, has enabled me to engage in advanced research and technological projects that align with the vision of the Damodhar Masram Excellence Scholarship. Through my work, I aspire to make a lasting impact in the biotechnology sector while also mentoring underrepresented students, fostering a culture of accessibility in higher education. One of my most impactful projects involved the formulation of an herbal eczema cream designed as a natural, anti-steroidal treatment for inflammatory skin conditions. By integrating active ingredients like Rosemary, Boswellia serrata, and Calendula, I successfully developed a topical solution that provides relief from itching and inflammation without the side effects associated with synthetic treatments. This project not only deepened my understanding of formulation science and dermatological biotechnology but also instilled in me a strong desire to create accessible and effective medical solutions for underserved populations. Additionally, I worked on a MSC-laden gelatin-alginate hydrogel formulation for regenerative medicine, exploring its potential applications in wound healing and tissue regeneration. By synthesizing and optimizing a hydrogel scaffold infused with mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), I was able to enhance cellular adhesion and proliferation, demonstrating promising results in tissue repair. This experience reinforced my commitment to using biomaterials and tissue engineering to develop groundbreaking medical interventions. Beyond research, I am actively involved in mentoring and educational outreach. Currently, I serve as a peer mentor at Project Access, where I guide underprivileged and underrepresented students in securing admissions to top universities. Having navigated the complexities of international education myself, I am deeply committed to helping others overcome systemic barriers and achieve their academic goals. My mentorship experience has strengthened my leadership skills and given me a profound sense of responsibility to support future generations of STEM innovators. Receiving this scholarship would enable me to expand my research in biomaterials and regenerative medicine while continuing my mentorship initiatives. My goal is to bridge the gap between cutting-edge biotechnology and real-world applications, ensuring that scientific advancements translate into tangible benefits for communities worldwide. Inspired by Damodhar Masram’s legacy, I aim to uphold his values of excellence, resilience, and innovation by developing transformative biotechnological solutions and uplifting aspiring scientists from diverse backgrounds. This scholarship represents more than financial support; it embodies an opportunity to push the boundaries of innovation, empower future STEM leaders, and drive meaningful change in biotechnology. With this support, I am confident in my ability to contribute groundbreaking research, mentor the next generation, and honor the vision of this prestigious award.