I have chosen to pursue a Masters degree in STEM because of the immense potential it holds to solve real-world problems and make a tangible impact on people’s lives. Science has always intrigued me, particularly the way it combines logic, curiosity, and discovery to uncover truths about the world around us. But it wasn’t just the academic challenge that drew me to STEM—it was the opportunity to contribute to something greater, something meaningful. My personal experiences, especially growing up with anxiety and ADHD, have given me a unique appreciation for how scientific advancements in medicine and technology can change lives. These experiences have fueled my desire to enter the field of forensic science, where I can use my passion for problem-solving to bring closure and justice to individuals and families affected. As a person of color, my journey in STEM carries an additional weight of responsibility and purpose. I am fully aware of the underrepresentation of people of color, particularly women, in scientific fields, and this is one of the reasons why I am so determined to succeed. Representation matters, and I want to be a role model for other young women of color who aspire to enter STEM but may feel intimidated by the lack of diversity. I believe that diversity within STEM is critical to advancing the field, as different perspectives lead to new ideas, innovative solutions, and a more inclusive approach to problem-solving. I am also passionate about advocating for individuals who have been wrongfully convicted or who are struggling within the criminal justice system, many of whom are people of color disproportionately impacted by systemic injustices. Through my passion with the Innocence Project, I’ve learned how the intersection of mental health and the criminal justice system can often be overlooked. Many of those wrongfully convicted struggle with mental health issues, and my goal is to use forensic science to provide not only justice but also the mental health support these individuals need to heal. Forensic science is an art as much as it is a science, requiring a deep understanding of both the technical aspects and the human element behind each case. I hope to bring my interdisciplinary background, which includes undergraduate studies in Science, Technology, and Society with a focus on Bioethics, and Biology to this field. This foundation has given me a unique perspective on the ethical implications of scientific work and the societal responsibilities we hold as scientists. I believe that by approaching forensic science with empathy, ethics, and a commitment to justice, I can contribute to a more equitable and compassionate system. Ultimately, I hope to pave the way for more people of color in STEM, showing that we belong in these spaces and that our contributions are vital to the progress of science and society. Through my work, I hope to one day inspire the next generation of diverse scientists who will continue to push boundaries and innovate.

Throughout my educational journey, I’ve faced several challenges that have tested my resilience and determination, shaping who I am and my goals for the future. One of the most significant adversities I’ve had to overcome is managing my mental health, particularly anxiety and ADHD. These conditions, which went undiagnosed for much of my childhood, greatly impacted my early academic performance. I was placed into resource classes for underperforming, and for years, I believed I wasn’t capable of succeeding in school. It wasn’t until a teacher recognized my potential and advocated for me to be professionally tested that I was diagnosed with ADHD. This moment changed my life, allowing me to understand that I wasn’t unintelligent—I simply learned differently. Despite this breakthrough, my educational journey has continued to be challenging. Managing anxiety and ADHD, particularly in high-pressure environments like college, has required me to develop coping mechanisms and strategies to ensure I stay on track. I’ve had to work harder than my peers to maintain focus and stay organized, setting schedules and deadlines to avoid burnout. Journaling, meditation, and physical activities like rollerblading and hiking have been essential in maintaining balance and managing stress. In addition to my mental health struggles, my family has faced significant adversity. My father is currently battling thymoma cancer, an aggressive and rare form that has not responded well to treatments. Watching my father’s health decline has been incredibly difficult, but his strength and resilience have inspired me to keep pushing forward, no matter the obstacles I face. His battle has fueled my passion for science, as I’ve seen firsthand how critical scientific research and innovation can be in improving lives and finding solutions to complex medical challenges. My passion for STEM is deeply rooted in my desire to make a difference in the world. I view science not only as a technical field but also as an art that requires creativity, curiosity, and a commitment to uncovering the truth. My undergraduate degree in Science, Technology, and Society, with a focus on Bioethics, and Biology has given me an interdisciplinary perspective on how science impacts society and the ethical responsibilities we have as scientists. This perspective has fueled my passion for forensic science, where I hope to blend my love of science with my desire to bring justice and closure to individuals and families. Financially, pursuing higher education has been a significant challenge. My family has faced immense financial strain due to my father’s cancer treatments, and they are forced to sell their home as a result. I am currently working full-time as a lab support technician while pursuing my master’s degree in Pharmaceutical Science with a concentration in Forensic Science. Paying for school out of pocket by myself while also covering rent, living expenses etc. has been incredibly difficult. At the moment, I can only afford to take one course per semester, which has slowed my progress toward my degree. Despite these challenges, I remain determined to complete my education and achieve my goals. This scholarship would significantly ease the financial burden I’m facing and allow me to focus more on my studies. It would enable me to take additional courses, accelerating my path to completing my degree and beginning my career in forensic science. With this scholarship’s support, I could continue to pursue my passion for STEM, making meaningful contributions to the scientific community and working toward a career where I can bring justice and closure to those who need it most.

My experience with mental health has profoundly shaped my beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations in ways I never anticipated. From a young age, I struggled with anxiety and undiagnosed ADHD, which impacted not only my academic performance but also how I viewed myself and navigated the world around me. Growing up in a family where both of my parents struggled with anxiety made it difficult to develop healthy coping skills, and for a long time, I felt isolated in my struggles. However, through these challenges, I have learned resilience and developed a deep empathy for others, which has informed my beliefs, strengthened my relationships, and inspired my career in forensic science. Beliefs My experiences with mental health have influenced my core beliefs, particularly around empathy, understanding, and the importance of mental health awareness. For many years, I didn’t know why I struggled with simple tasks that others seemed to manage effortlessly. Whether it was focusing in class, completing assignments on time, or navigating social situations, I always felt like I was falling behind. My anxiety exacerbated these struggles, leading to panic attacks and periods of feeling overwhelmed. This experience helped me realize how deeply mental health can affect every aspect of a person’s life. This has shaped my belief that mental health is just as important as physical health and should be treated with the same level of care and attention. I have come to understand that mental health challenges are not a sign of weakness but rather an integral part of being human. This belief fuels my passion for increasing mental health awareness and advocating for accessible mental health care, particularly for individuals in marginalized communities who may face additional barriers to getting the help they need. Through this lens, I also believe that mental health should be integrated into all aspects of life, including education, the workplace, and the criminal justice system. I have seen firsthand the effects of mental health on education, both in my own life and in others. It wasn’t until a teacher recognized my potential and advocated for me to be professionally tested that I was diagnosed with ADHD and removed from resource classes, where I had been placed for underperforming. This experience instilled in me the belief that individuals should not be defined by their mental health challenges but rather supported and empowered to reach their full potential. Relationships Mental health has also had a significant impact on my relationships, both positively and negatively. Growing up with undiagnosed ADHD and anxiety, I often felt misunderstood, which led to feelings of isolation. It was difficult to articulate what I was going through, and I sometimes withdrew from relationships because I didn’t want to burden others with my struggles. However, these challenges also taught me the importance of communication and vulnerability in relationships. As I’ve learned to manage my mental health, I’ve also learned the value of opening up to others, asking for help, and being honest about my needs. This has strengthened my relationships with friends, and family. I now prioritize building connections that are grounded in empathy and understanding, and I try to be a source of support for others who may be facing similar struggles. My personal experiences have also given me a deeper appreciation for the importance of mental health in maintaining healthy relationships. I’ve learned that it’s okay to set boundaries and prioritize self-care in order to show up fully for the people I care about. This has allowed me to foster more meaningful, supportive relationships that are built on mutual respect and understanding. Additionally, my father’s battle with thymoma cancer has further shaped my relationships and beliefs around mental health. Watching him face such an aggressive illness has been incredibly challenging, but it has also deepened our bond and strengthened my resolve to make a difference in the world. His resilience in the face of such adversity has inspired me to approach my own struggles with courage and perseverance, and his journey has underscored the importance of mental health support for individuals dealing with serious physical health conditions. Career Aspirations My experience with mental health has been a driving force behind my decision to pursue a Masters in Pharmacology with a concentration in Forensic Science. I hope to make a meaningful impact by helping others find closure and justice. I view forensic science as an art—one that requires both scientific precision and a deep understanding of the human element behind each case. My own struggles with mental health have given me a unique perspective on the importance of empathy and compassion in scientific fields, especially when working with individuals who have experienced trauma or loss. My undergraduate studies in Science, Technology, and Society with a focus on Bioethics and Biology have given me an interdisciplinary perspective on how mental health intersects with science, ethics, and public policy. I hope to use this background to contribute to research and initiatives that increase mental health awareness and provide solutions for individuals who may not have access to the care they need. Overall, my experience with mental health has shaped every aspect of my life, from my beliefs to my relationships and career aspirations. It has taught me the importance of empathy, resilience, and the need for accessible mental health care. I am determined to use my personal experiences to make a positive impact in the world. I hope to help create a world where mental health is prioritized and everyone has access to the care they deserve.

My mental health has had a profound impact on both my academic performance and personal life throughout my educational journey. Growing up, I struggled with undiagnosed ADHD and anxiety, which made learning an uphill battle. I was placed into resource classes as a child for underperforming academically, and for years, I believed I was simply unintelligent. The label stuck with me until a teacher saw beyond the surface and advocated for me to be professionally tested. That test revealed not only that I didn’t belong in resource but also that I had ADHD. This was a pivotal moment in my life because it reframed how I viewed myself and my abilities. Instead of feeling inadequate, I began to understand that I simply learned differently. Even with a diagnosis, however, the struggle didn’t disappear. Anxiety and ADHD have created significant hurdles in both my academic and personal life, especially as I’ve pursued higher education. Balancing the challenges of focus, organization, and time management with anxiety can often feel overwhelming. The pressure to perform academically while managing my mental health requires constant effort. I often feel like I’m working twice as hard just to keep up. However, through years of trial and error, I’ve developed systems and coping strategies that help me thrive. One of the biggest steps I’ve taken to ensure my mental health remains a priority while I attend school is setting structured schedules and deadlines for myself. This discipline allows me to manage my time effectively, reduce procrastination, and minimize stress. I’ve found that breaking down tasks into smaller, manageable parts helps me stay focused and prevents the feeling of being overwhelmed by larger projects or deadlines. I also take great care to avoid burnout, something I’ve learned the hard way in the past. If I don’t create balance, my mental health suffers, which in turn negatively affects my academic performance. Incorporating activities that bring me joy and peace has been crucial to maintaining this balance. Journaling is one tool that has been particularly helpful. It allows me to organize my thoughts, process my emotions, and reflect on my mental health in a safe, constructive way. I also practice meditation regularly, which helps me manage anxiety and stay grounded, particularly during high-stress periods like exams or major projects. Physical activity plays an equally important role in my self-care routine. Rollerblading and hiking are two activities that bring me immense joy and serve as a release from the pressures of school and life. Both allow me to reconnect with myself, clear my mind, and gain a sense of calm that’s often elusive when I’m buried in schoolwork. These activities, combined with journaling and meditation, help me maintain a sense of balance between school, work, and personal well-being. In addition to these daily practices, I’ve also learned the importance of seeking support when necessary. I’ve always been fiercely independent, often feeling like I needed to handle everything on my own. But my experiences with anxiety and ADHD have taught me that it’s okay—and often necessary—to ask for help. Whether it’s reaching out to professors, seeking guidance from mentors, or leaning on friends and family, having a support system in place has made all the difference in managing both my mental health and academic responsibilities. Attending school while managing my mental health has been a challenging, but transformative experience. It’s taught me resilience, discipline, and self-compassion. I no longer see my mental health challenges as a weakness, but as a part of who I am—something that makes me more empathetic, more determined, and more committed to making a difference in the world.

As a woman in STEM, my goals and passions are deeply rooted in my desire to make a meaningful contribution to the scientific community while empowering others along the way. From a young age, I’ve been inspired by the world of science, and that inspiration only grew stronger as I pursued my education and faced personal challenges. My journey has been shaped not only by my academic interests but also by my father’s battle with thymoma cancer, which has profoundly influenced the way I approach my goals and the importance of the work I hope to do. Watching my father face this aggressive and rare form of cancer has been both heartbreaking and inspiring. His resilience in the face of such a difficult diagnosis has taught me the value of perseverance and dedication. His experience has also opened my eyes to the importance of scientific research, particularly in fields like pharmacology and forensic science, where the work being done can directly impact people’s lives. My father has always encouraged me to pursue my passions, and his fight has fueled my determination to contribute something meaningful to the world of science. He may not win his battle with cancer, but he has inspired me to fight for answers, solutions, and justice in whatever form that takes in my career. My passion for forensic science, specifically, stems from a desire to blend science with a deep sense of purpose. I view forensic science as more than just a technical field—it’s an art that requires precision, curiosity, and a commitment to uncovering the truth. The ability to use science to bring comfort, closure, and justice to individuals and families is a unique opportunity that drives me every day. It’s important to me not only because it’s intellectually challenging, but because it allows me to contribute to something greater than myself. I want my work to matter, to have a tangible, positive impact on people’s lives, much like how my father’s journey has had an immeasurable impact on mine. As I pursue a Master’s degree in Pharmacology with a concentration in Forensic Science, I am committed to being a part of the growing community of women in STEM who are making strides in fields that have traditionally been male-dominated. It is critical for women to have representation in these areas, not only to break down barriers but also to bring diverse perspectives that can lead to innovative solutions. I’ve always believed that knowledge is power, and I’m driven by a deep sense of curiosity that compels me to ask questions, seek answers, and continue learning. I want to be part of a community where women are empowered by this knowledge and encouraged to push boundaries. Additionally, my undergraduate studies in Science, Technology, and Society with a focus on Bioethics and Biology have provided me with an interdisciplinary approach to STEM. This background allows me to understand not only the scientific aspects of my work but also the ethical and societal implications. It’s this holistic perspective that I bring to my goals and passions. Whether it’s through forensic science or another area of research, I’m dedicated to contributing to scientific advancements in ways that benefit society as a whole. It’s important to me to foster a sense of community among women in STEM because I know how crucial support systems can be. Together, we can break down barriers, challenge outdated norms, and redefine what it means to succeed in STEM.

My mental health has had a profound impact on both my academic performance and personal life throughout my educational journey. Growing up, I struggled with undiagnosed ADHD and anxiety, which made learning an uphill battle. I was placed into resource classes as a child for underperforming academically, and for years, I believed I was simply unintelligent. The label stuck with me until a teacher saw beyond the surface and advocated for me to be professionally tested. That test revealed not only that I didn’t belong in resource but also that I had ADHD. This was a pivotal moment in my life because it reframed how I viewed myself and my abilities. Instead of feeling inadequate, I began to understand that I simply learned differently. Even with a diagnosis, however, the struggle didn’t disappear. Anxiety and ADHD have created significant hurdles in both my academic and personal life, especially as I’ve pursued higher education. Balancing the challenges of focus, organization, and time management with anxiety can often feel overwhelming. The pressure to perform academically while managing my mental health requires constant effort. I often feel like I’m working twice as hard just to keep up. However, through years of trial and error, I’ve developed systems and coping strategies that help me thrive. One of the biggest steps I’ve taken to ensure my mental health remains a priority while I attend school is setting structured schedules and deadlines for myself. This discipline allows me to manage my time effectively, reduce procrastination, and minimize stress. I’ve found that breaking down tasks into smaller, manageable parts helps me stay focused and prevents the feeling of being overwhelmed by larger projects or deadlines. I also take great care to avoid burnout, something I’ve learned the hard way in the past. If I don’t create balance, my mental health suffers, which in turn negatively affects my academic performance. Incorporating activities that bring me joy and peace has been crucial to maintaining this balance. Journaling is one tool that has been particularly helpful. It allows me to organize my thoughts, process my emotions, and reflect on my mental health in a safe, constructive way. I also practice meditation regularly, which helps me manage anxiety and stay grounded, particularly during high-stress periods like exams or major projects. Physical activity plays an equally important role in my self-care routine. Rollerblading and hiking are two activities that bring me immense joy and serve as a release from the pressures of school and life. Both allow me to reconnect with myself, clear my mind, and gain a sense of calm that’s often elusive when I’m buried in schoolwork. These activities, combined with journaling and meditation, help me maintain a sense of balance between school, work, and personal well-being. In addition to these daily practices, I’ve also learned the importance of seeking support when necessary. I’ve always been fiercely independent, often feeling like I needed to handle everything on my own. But my experiences with anxiety and ADHD have taught me that it’s okay—and often necessary—to ask for help. Whether it’s reaching out to professors, seeking guidance from mentors, or leaning on friends and family, having a support system in place has made all the difference in managing both my mental health and academic responsibilities. Attending school while managing my mental health has been a challenging, but transformative experience. It’s taught me resilience, discipline, and self-compassion. I no longer see my mental health challenges as a weakness, but as a part of who I am—something that makes me more empathetic, more determined, and more committed to making a difference in the world.

As a woman of color who has battled anxiety, I understand the critical need for affordable, accessible mental health care, particularly in marginalized communities. My background in Science, Technology, and Society with a focus on Bioethics has given me an interdisciplinary perspective on these issues, allowing me to see how social systems, ethics, and science intersect in addressing mental health care. This has fueled my passion for forensic science and the Innocence Project. Wrongfully convicted individuals suffer from severe mental health challenges. My aim is to use my unique skill set to contribute to criminal justice reform by advocating for integrated mental health care within the legal system. I view forensic science as an art, one that blends scientific precision with an ethical responsibility to restore justice and support the humanity of those impacted. My interdisciplinary background positions me to contribute both scientifically and ethically to making mental health care more accessible. I hope to one day focus on developing affordable treatments for anxiety and trauma through my studies in pharmacology, while also promoting early intervention strategies in schools, workplaces, and the justice system. By focusing on the intersection of mental health and criminal justice, I hope to create lasting change for underserved communities and those wrongfully convicted, ensuring they receive the mental health support they desperately need.