On Christmas Eve, I received a call that changed everything. My mother had passed away alone in her apartment, without the care she desperately needed. She had struggled with addiction for years, but instead of finding support within the healthcare system, she was met with barriers—stigma, limited access, and a lack of compassionate treatment. Her death was not an isolated tragedy but the result of a system that continuously fails those who need help the most. In the wake of that loss, I found clarity: I would dedicate my life to ensuring that others do not suffer the same fate. Growing up in Ohio, I saw firsthand how healthcare disparities impact rural and underserved communities. My mother’s struggle was not unique; in small towns and low-income areas, patients are often dismissed, overlooked, or unable to access care altogether. Addiction treatment is scarce, mental healthcare is underfunded, and preventable deaths continue to occur—not because solutions don’t exist, but because they aren’t made available to those who need them most. Seeing this firsthand is what drove me to medicine, not just as a career, but as a mission. With my medical degree, I will work to change this. I plan to serve in rural Ohio, bringing quality care to areas that have been neglected for far too long. My goal is to help build a healthcare system that treats addiction as the medical condition it is, integrating substance use treatment with primary care rather than separating it as an afterthought. No one should die alone due to lack of access to proper treatment. No family should receive the kind of phone call I did. Beyond patient care, I also want to advocate for systemic change. Medical malpractice and lack of access to proper healthcare cost lives every day, particularly in communities like the one I grew up in. Through policy work and community outreach, I want to fight for better funding, more accessible addiction treatment programs, and expanded rural healthcare services. My mother’s death was preventable, but it gave me a purpose. It taught me that medicine is not just about knowledge—it is about action, about advocacy, about standing in the gap for those who have been left behind. This scholarship would allow me to continue that mission without the financial barriers that often deter students from pursuing careers in public service. With your support, I will dedicate my life to ensuring that no one else’s loved one is lost to a broken system—that no one else has to receive the call that I did.

I did not grow up seeing medicine as just a career; I saw it as the difference between hope and loss. My mother’s struggle with addiction shaped my earliest understanding of healthcare, not in sterile exam rooms or routine checkups, but in emergency visits, in quiet moments of uncertainty, in the stark reality of how addiction changes a person. As a child, I could not understand why she could not stop using, why the mother who loved me so deeply was trapped in something she could not escape. But as I grew, my curiosity about the brain gave me the answers I had been searching for. The brain is at the core of who we are: our thoughts, our decisions, our ability to heal. My fascination with its complexity led me to neuroscience, where in my undergraduate studies I found a passion for understanding the intricate pathways that dictate behavior and function. My research on spinal cord pathways solidified my love for discovery, for the way science could answer questions I had carried my whole life. But more than anything, it gave me direction. I wanted to take that understanding beyond research, beyond theory, and apply it where it mattered most: in patient care. My journey to medicine has not been without challenges. I have had to balance academic rigor with financial responsibilities as I lack both a present mother and father, taking on leadership roles while ensuring that I could support myself throughout my journey. But, none of those challenges would equip me with the tools necessary to handle the sudden and tragic death of my mother. Everyone assumes that given her struggles she died of an overdose, but that was not the case. She passed away due to medical negligence. I was forced to confront a harsh reality: not everyone receives the care that they deserve. Her death was preventable, a result of systemic barriers that left her unseen, and unheard. But instead of anger, I felt resolve. I knew then that I wanted to be the kind of physician who listens, who looks beyond a patient’s history and sees them as a whole person. These experiences have shaped not just my desire to become a doctor, but the kind of doctor I hope to be. I want to bridge the gap between medicine and the people it serves, to ensure that no one is overlooked because of their circumstances. My mother’s story has given me a deep sense of empathy, one that will guide me through every patient interaction, every difficult diagnosis, and every moment where someone just needs to be heard. I do not see the hardships I have faced as setbacks but as lessons. They have given me resilience, perspective, and an unwavering sense of purpose. They have shown me the profound impact a compassionate physician can have, and I hope to carry that impact forward. Medicine, to me, is not just a field of study but it is a calling, one that I step into with gratitude, humility, and a deep commitment to those who need it most. Thank you for your time and consideration of me in this scholarship. My journey is largely possible due to the village of generous donors. Without folks like you, there would not be access for folks like me. Thank you again!

The moment I stepped into the NICU, the air felt heavy yet delicate. Beeping monitors hummed in the background, the sound of many babies sitting and waiting in their incubators. Among them was my sister: small, trembling, fighting a battle she never asked for. She was born into withdrawal, her tiny body rejecting the very substance that had sustained her in the womb. I was young, but I understood that something was wrong. My mother, exhausted and overwhelmed, could do nothing but watch as nurses and physicians tended to my sister with the utmost care. I remember how their hands, practiced yet gentle had adjusted tubes, monitored vitals, and soothed cries. Amidst the medical equipment and uncertainty, they brought a sense of order to the chaos. Even at that age, I remember wishing I could do the same. That moment never left me. It was the first time I truly saw medicine not as a set of procedures or prescriptions, but as an act of compassion, precision, and advocacy. My sister’s fight ignited a deep desire in me to understand, help, and heal. Over the years, this desire grew, reinforced by my love of science, my curiosity about the human body, and my drive to serve others. As I matured, my experiences continued to affirm my calling. In high school, I organized a fundraiser for March of Dimes, a nonprofit dedicated to improving the health of mothers and babies. I spent hours researching the effects of neonatal complications, deepening my understanding of the challenges my sister had faced. Later, my academic pursuits led me to neuroscience, where I explored the intricacies of the human body through research on neural pathways in spinal cord function. The more I learned, the more certain I became that pediatric medicine was where I belonged. Beyond academics, my involvement in medical organizations like Phi Delta Epsilon and the Brain Health Research Institute has further shaped my journey. Through mentorship, advocacy, and hands-on experiences, I have had the privilege of connecting with future physicians who share my passion. Volunteering at hospitals and domestic violence shelters has reinforced the importance of patient-centered care, reminding me that medicine is about more than diagnosis and treatment—it is about being present for people in their most vulnerable moments. My sister’s time in the NICU was brief compared to the lifelong impact it had on me. It taught me that medicine is both delicate and powerful, and that every decision made by a physician can change the trajectory of a child’s life. I want to be the kind of doctor who stands beside families in those defining moments, who advocates for children who cannot yet speak for themselves, and who supports parents navigating the fear and uncertainty that often accompany a difficult diagnosis. Parents should never feel helpless when it comes to their child’s health, and I want to be a source of both medical expertise and emotional support. The NICU showed me both the fragility and resilience of life. It revealed the kind of doctor I want to be and the responsibility I am willing to embrace. Pediatric medicine is more than a career to me—it is a promise I made to my sister, to every child like her, and myself.

Mental illness has been a significant, if painful, part of my life and my family’s story. My mom, a loving and vibrant woman, struggled with untreated mental health issues throughout much of her life. She has bipolar disorder, and without the proper support and resources, led her to self-medicate with drugs. As a young child, I experienced the ripple effects of her mental health challenges. Watching her battle these invisible wounds was difficult, and the unpredictability of my home life made it hard to find stability. My childhood wasn’t easy, but it shaped me in ways I didn’t fully understand at the time. It made me develop a resilience and strength I never expected I would need. I learned to navigate the complexities of addiction and mental illness, not only as a witness but as someone who had to cope with its emotional toll. The environment I grew up in led to my own diagnosis of complex PTSD, a result of the years of emotional turmoil and the constant sense of instability. Over time, I realized that I wasn’t just surviving my circumstances—I was learning from them. My journey toward healing began when I decided to seek therapy and professional help. In therapy, I learned how to process my trauma, manage my symptoms, and reframe my narrative. Rather than letting my past define me, I decided to use it as a source of strength. My experiences taught me empathy, resilience, and the importance of mental health care. I came to understand that no one is immune to mental health struggles, and that true healing begins when we seek help, break the silence, and take active steps toward recovery. This understanding is what motivated me to pursue a degree in Neuroscience. I wanted to not only understand the brain and mental health from a scientific perspective but also contribute to solutions for those who, like my mom, have struggled without the necessary resources. Through my studies, I’ve come to recognize how crucial it is to address mental health in a holistic way, considering both the psychological and biological factors at play. My goal is to work in addiction medicine, where I can make a meaningful difference for those who face similar battles—especially in communities that lack the proper support systems. Though my mom’s struggles with mental health were a significant burden on our family, they also shaped my sense of purpose. I am determined to break the cycle of untreated mental illness and addiction. I believe that by increasing access to mental health services, advocating for better treatment options, and working to de-stigmatize addiction, we can help more people heal before it’s too late. Despite the hardships I’ve faced, I am grateful for the lessons they’ve taught me. They’ve given me an unwavering commitment to fight for others who struggle in silence. I want my story to serve as proof that, even in the most difficult of circumstances, we can find a way to rise, heal, and make a difference. I’ve chosen a path in healthcare because I know firsthand how critical it is for people to receive the right care and support at the right time. I may have walked a difficult road, but I’m determined to help others find their way to healing.

Choosing to pursue higher education was never just a decision for me—it was a necessity, a promise, and a purpose. As a first-generation college student, I knew that earning a degree would be a pivotal step toward breaking cycles of hardship and creating a brighter future for myself and my family. My experiences growing up, particularly witnessing the struggles of my mother and the challenges of our community, have shaped my determination to succeed and to give back in meaningful ways. My mother, Leiah Kiser, battled heroin addiction for much of her life and ultimately passed away on Christmas Eve due to a lethal combination of medications prescribed during her treatment. This loss was devastating, but it also became the spark that ignited my passion for addiction medicine. I chose to pursue higher education to understand the science of addiction and, more importantly, to address the systemic issues that prevent effective treatment in underserved communities. Preparing for college as a first-generation student meant navigating unfamiliar territory. I knew I couldn’t rely on family experience to guide me, so I sought out resources, mentors, and opportunities to build my foundation. I worked diligently in high school and beyond, earning a 4.0 GPA while participating in organizations like Phi Delta Epsilon, the Brain Health Research Institute, and America’s Medical Student Association. These experiences not only deepened my academic knowledge but also instilled the leadership skills and perseverance I would need in college and beyond. Financial and emotional obstacles also required me to develop resilience. Growing up in a low-income, government-assisted community taught me the value of hard work and the importance of community support. Scholarships, volunteer opportunities, and mentorships were critical in preparing me for the challenges of higher education. I also leaned on my faith, which reminded me to stay focused on my purpose and to trust that every step of the journey was leading me toward a greater goal. Earning my degree in Neuroscience from Kent State University was the culmination of years of preparation and sacrifice. But my education is not the end—it’s the beginning of my mission to address addiction as a medical professional. Higher education has equipped me not only with the knowledge to pursue this career but also with the empathy to serve others who are struggling, just as my mother once did. As a first-generation student, the road to higher education has been challenging, but it has also been transformative. It has given me the tools to honor my family’s sacrifices and create a legacy of hope and healing. I am committed to using my education to uplift others and to be a guiding light for those facing the same obstacles I once did.

Legacy, to me, is the mark we leave on the world through the lives we touch and the changes we inspire. It’s the values we carry forward and the impact we strive to make, both as individuals and as part of a greater community. My family’s story is a testament to the power of resilience and hope, and it has deeply shaped the legacy I want to leave behind. My mother, Leiah Kiser, was a courageous woman who fought tirelessly against heroin addiction but tragically lost her life during treatment. On Christmas Eve, she passed away due to a lethal combination of medications, leaving behind her parents, me, and my seven-year-old sister. This profound loss revealed the cyclical nature of hardship and the systemic barriers that make escaping it so difficult. My mother’s struggle was not isolated—it was part of a larger narrative that many families in low-income communities face. Growing up in a government-assisted community, I witnessed both the challenges of poverty and the power of collective strength. These experiences taught me that legacy is not just about breaking cycles but about building bridges—between pain and healing, struggle and triumph, and past and future. My upbringing has profoundly shaped my path in life. It gave me an intimate understanding of the gaps in addiction treatment and the importance of compassionate, equitable care. This perspective drove me to pursue a degree in Neuroscience. My education is not only a tool for personal success but also a means to honor my family’s legacy by addressing the issues that have affected us for generations. I plan to continue this legacy by dedicating my career to addiction medicine in underserved communities, particularly in rural Ohio. My goal is to provide care that not only treats addiction but also addresses the systemic inequities that perpetuate it. I want to ensure that others have access to the resources and support my mother didn’t. By breaking the cycle of inadequate care and stigma surrounding addiction, I hope to create a new legacy—one rooted in healing, compassion, and advocacy. Legacy is about turning pain into purpose and ensuring that the lessons of the past pave the way for a brighter future. My story is one of resilience and hope, and I am committed to using it to make a meaningful difference. Through my work, I hope to leave a legacy that uplifts others and honors the strength of those who came before me.

Education is the foundation for the life I’ve built and the one I hope to create for others. My journey has been shaped by challenges, but each step has reinforced my belief in the power of learning to transform lives—not just my own, but the lives of those around me. Growing up, I witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of addiction within my family. My mother, Leiah Kiser, battled heroin addiction for many years. Despite her bravery in seeking treatment, she tragically lost her life during the process. On Christmas Eve, she was prescribed a lethal combination of medications, leaving behind her parents, myself, and my then-seven-year-old sister. This loss was more than a personal tragedy; it revealed critical gaps in the healthcare system, especially in addiction medicine. Motivated by these experiences, I chose to study Neuroscience at Kent State University, where I graduated with a 4.0 GPA. My education has given me the tools to understand the complexities of the brain and addiction, as well as the compassion to address the struggles faced by individuals like my mother. It has equipped me with the scientific knowledge and the emotional resilience needed to pursue a career dedicated to improving addiction treatment and recovery. Education is not just about gaining knowledge; it is about finding purpose. For me, that purpose is to give back to the underserved communities that raised and supported me. Growing up in a low-income, government-assisted community, I relied on the generosity and strength of others to navigate life’s challenges. I know that my achievements are not mine alone—they are the result of a village that believed in me. With this understanding, I plan to use my degree to address the systemic inequities that make it so difficult for families like mine to access quality healthcare. My goal is to practice addiction medicine in rural and underserved areas of Ohio, where the need for compassionate, effective care is greatest. By providing individualized, evidence-based treatment, I hope to prevent others from experiencing the same loss and pain that my family endured. Education is the bridge between my past and the future I want to create. It has given me the skills to pursue my dreams and the perspective to honor my roots. By serving as a healthcare provider, advocate, and mentor, I aim to give back to society in ways that reflect the support I’ve received. Through my work, I hope to ensure that others have the opportunity to heal, thrive, and reclaim their lives.

Education is the foundation for the life I’ve built and the one I hope to create for others. My journey has been shaped by challenges, but each step has reinforced my belief in the power of learning to transform lives—not just my own, but the lives of those around me. Growing up, I witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of addiction within my family. My mother, Leiah Kiser, battled heroin addiction for many years. Despite her bravery in seeking treatment, she tragically lost her life during the process. On Christmas Eve, she was prescribed a lethal combination of medications, leaving behind her parents, myself, and my then-seven-year-old sister. This loss was more than a personal tragedy; it revealed critical gaps in the healthcare system, especially in addiction medicine. Motivated by these experiences, I chose to study Neuroscience at Kent State University, where I graduated with a 4.0 GPA. My education has given me the tools to understand the complexities of the brain and addiction, as well as the compassion to address the struggles faced by individuals like my mother. It has equipped me with the scientific knowledge and the emotional resilience needed to pursue a career dedicated to improving addiction treatment and recovery. Education is not just about gaining knowledge; it is about finding purpose. For me, that purpose is to give back to the underserved communities that raised and supported me. Growing up in a low-income, government-assisted community, I relied on the generosity and strength of others to navigate life’s challenges. I know that my achievements are not mine alone—they are the result of a village that believed in me. With this understanding, I plan to use my degree to address the systemic inequities that make it so difficult for families like mine to access quality healthcare. My goal is to practice addiction medicine in rural and underserved areas of Ohio, where the need for compassionate, effective care is greatest. By providing individualized, evidence-based treatment, I hope to prevent others from experiencing the same loss and pain that my family endured. Education is the bridge between my past and the future I want to create. It has given me the skills to pursue my dreams and the perspective to honor my roots. By serving as a healthcare provider, advocate, and mentor, I aim to give back to society in ways that reflect the support I’ve received. Through my work, I hope to ensure that others have the opportunity to heal, thrive, and reclaim their lives.

Faith has been my anchor throughout my life, guiding me through adversity and shaping my values, including my belief in the sanctity of life. I owe my very existence to my mother’s courage and the support of my Christian family. As a teenage single mother, my mom was faced with the daunting choice of whether to keep me. The world often tells women in her situation that their only way forward is through abortion, but my family—grounded in faith and love—offered her another path. They encouraged her to choose life, reminding her that every child is a blessing from God. Because of their unwavering support, I was born, and my life began. From the time I was two years old, I attended an evangelical church, where I learned about God’s love and purpose for every individual. At nine, I made the personal decision to be baptized, publicly committing my life to Christ. This relationship with God has been my foundation through all the challenges I’ve faced, particularly as I grew up witnessing my mother’s battle with addiction. Living with my mom during her struggle wasn’t easy. Addiction is a disease that impacts everyone it touches, and there were moments when despair felt overwhelming. But my faith gave me hope. In times of fear and uncertainty, I turned to prayer, scripture, and the support of my church family. I held tightly to Jeremiah 29:11, which promises, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” God’s purpose for my life became clearer as I matured. My experiences taught me empathy and gave me a deep desire to help others. Witnessing my mom’s struggles firsthand, I felt called to pursue a degree in addictions medicine. I believe that God allowed me to go through these challenges so I could understand the pain of those facing similar battles and serve them with compassion. My belief in the sanctity of life is rooted in this journey. If my mother had chosen abortion, I would not be here to fulfill the purpose God has for me. Every life, no matter how small or vulnerable, has inherent value because it is created by God. I am living proof that a life others might deem inconvenient or unworthy can grow into someone who makes a difference. I remain pro-life because I believe every child deserves the chance to live, just as I was given. I know the decision to carry a pregnancy isn’t always easy, but I also know that God provides strength and guidance to those who trust Him. My story is a testament to the power of faith, family, and God’s grace. I hope to use my life and career to honor the gift of life I was given and to help others find healing and hope.

Hello, I am Alaya Kiser, and I chose to pursue a career in healthcare, specifically in addiction medicine, because of my personal experience with the devastating effects of addiction. My mother, Leiah Kiser, struggled with heroin addiction for many years, and despite her courage in seeking treatment, she lost her life during the process. On Christmas Eve, she was prescribed a lethal combination of medications, leaving behind her parents, myself, and my little sister, who was only seven years old at the time. Now ten, my sister continues to grow up without her mother, a reality that has left an indelible mark on our lives. My mother’s battle with addiction and the circumstances of her death revealed critical flaws in the healthcare system, particularly in the treatment of vulnerable populations. Her experience illuminated the urgent need for compassionate, individualized care in addiction medicine, as well as the importance of medical oversight. Her story motivates me to dedicate my life to improving care for individuals like her—people who need not just medical treatment but also understanding and advocacy. To prepare myself for this mission, I chose to study Neuroscience, a field that combines rigorous science with the potential to make tangible impacts in people’s lives. Understanding the brain and its complex interplay with addiction has provided me with both knowledge and perspective on the root causes of substance use disorders. It has deepened my empathy for patients and strengthened my resolve to address addiction as a medical condition rather than a moral failing. Growing up in a low-income, government-assisted community shaped my perspective on the barriers to accessing quality healthcare. I’ve seen firsthand how systemic inequities disproportionately affect families like mine, making it even harder to escape cycles of addiction and poverty. These experiences are the foundation of my commitment to working with underserved communities. I want to ensure that individuals battling addiction, especially in rural and low-income areas, receive the care, attention, and advocacy they deserve. I aim to use my degree to make a difference where it matters most. I plan to practice addiction medicine in underserved areas of Ohio, addressing not only the medical needs of my patients but also the social and emotional challenges that often accompany addiction. I want to advocate for systemic changes that promote safer, more effective treatment protocols to prevent tragedies like my mother’s. Every step I’ve taken—whether it’s volunteering in hospitals, conducting research, or pursuing my education—has been guided by the hope that I can honor my mother’s memory by ensuring no one else’s life is cut short in the pursuit of healing. Healthcare is my calling because it allows me to combine science, compassion, and advocacy to make a meaningful difference. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to focus wholeheartedly on my education and future career, turning my pain into purpose and ensuring that others have a fighting chance to reclaim their lives from addiction. Lastly, I'd like to sincerely thank you for your time and consideration of me in your generous scholarship.

Hello, I am Alaya Kiser, and I chose to pursue a career in healthcare, specifically in addiction medicine, because of my personal experience with the devastating effects of addiction. My mother, Leiah Kiser, struggled with heroin addiction for many years, and despite her courage in seeking treatment, she lost her life during the process. On Christmas Eve, she was prescribed a lethal combination of medications, leaving behind her parents, myself, and my little sister, who was only seven years old at the time. Now ten, my sister continues to grow up without her mother, a reality that has left an indelible mark on our lives. My mother’s battle with addiction and the circumstances of her death revealed critical flaws in the healthcare system, particularly in the treatment of vulnerable populations. Her experience illuminated the urgent need for compassionate, individualized care in addiction medicine, as well as the importance of medical oversight. Her story motivates me to dedicate my life to improving care for individuals like her—people who need not just medical treatment but also understanding and advocacy. To prepare myself for this mission, I chose to study Neuroscience, a field that combines rigorous science with the potential to make tangible impacts in people’s lives. Understanding the brain and its complex interplay with addiction has provided me with both knowledge and perspective on the root causes of substance use disorders. It has deepened my empathy for patients and strengthened my resolve to address addiction as a medical condition rather than a moral failing. Growing up in a low-income, government-assisted community shaped my perspective on the barriers to accessing quality healthcare. I’ve seen firsthand how systemic inequities disproportionately affect families like mine, making it even harder to escape cycles of addiction and poverty. These experiences are the foundation of my commitment to working with underserved communities. I want to ensure that individuals battling addiction, especially in rural and low-income areas, receive the care, attention, and advocacy they deserve. I aim to use my degree to make a difference where it matters most. I plan to practice addiction medicine in underserved areas of Ohio, addressing not only the medical needs of my patients but also the social and emotional challenges that often accompany addiction. I want to advocate for systemic changes that promote safer, more effective treatment protocols to prevent tragedies like my mother’s. Every step I’ve taken—whether it’s volunteering in hospitals, conducting research, or pursuing my education—has been guided by the hope that I can honor my mother’s memory by ensuring no one else’s life is cut short in the pursuit of healing. Healthcare is my calling because it allows me to combine science, compassion, and advocacy to make a meaningful difference. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to focus wholeheartedly on my education and future career, turning my pain into purpose and ensuring that others have a fighting chance to reclaim their lives from addiction. Lastly, I'd like to thank you for your time and consideration of me for this scholarship.