Life is full of unexpected adversities that test our resilience and determination. Some families have a single traumatic event that they need to work through; my family has had two. These challenges have influenced my education, career aspirations, and personal growth. The lessons learned from supporting my father through these adversities have instilled within me a deep sense of gratitude, compassion, and determination to make a difference in the lives of others. In September 2016, a reckless driver swerved into my dad's lane, causing a near-fatal motorcycle accident. My father, a symbol of strength and inspiration, was knocked down on the highway. He suffered critical injuries, underwent an emergency splenectomy, and spent a week in the intensive care unit. The impact of this accident on our family was profound, but it was my father's unwavering resilience that kept us going during those challenging times. Unfortunately, in January 2020, our family received another blow when my father was diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma. He required extensive surgery to remove lymph nodes, tonsils, and parts of his tongue and cheek. He endured chemotherapy and radiation, all while dealing with the challenges imposed by the pandemic. Despite the physical and emotional toll, he never complained or allowed his illness to hinder his responsibilities. He continued to work remotely during the pandemic, and his resilience and unwavering commitment to his family were awe-inspiring. My passion for becoming a physical therapist is fueled by my desire to help others. From a young age, I experienced sports injuries and had the opportunity to work closely with physical therapists. Their expertise and compassionate care played a crucial role in my recovery and allowed me to return to the activities I love. These interactions sparked my fascination with this medical profession and ignited my desire to assist others in reclaiming their passion for sports. I aspire to become a physical therapist so that I can help individuals overcome physical limitations. These challenges we have faced as a family have deeply impacted my life. I have learned that resilience is not just about bouncing back from adversity but also about adapting, making tough decisions, and finding strength within oneself. It has also made me aware of my family's financial responsibilities due to considerable medical bills. As a result, I understand that a significant weight of the financial burden for my college education rests on my shoulders. Winning this scholarship would bring me closer to fulfilling my dream of becoming a physical therapist specializing in sports injuries. My family's journey through a life-altering accident and my father's battle with cancer have taught me valuable lessons in resilience, gratitude, and compassion. These experiences have shaped my career aspirations and instilled in me a deep desire to make a positive difference in the lives of others. Winning this scholarship would help me achieve my goals and contribute to the field of physical therapy.

I can do anything I put my mind to! That has been the mantra drilled into me as long as I can remember. As a competitive athlete from a young age, I have had numerous encounters with medical professionals who have not only healed my injuries but also inspired me to pursue a healthcare career. The transformative power of physical therapy has sparked my interest and inspired me to embark on a career in this field. My primary motivation behind my interest in healthcare is my passion for helping others. Witnessing the positive impact medical professionals, especially physical therapists, have had on my life has ignited a desire to pay it forward. I aspire to enhance the quality of life for individuals suffering from injuries or physical limitations. The ability to alleviate pain, restore functionality, and empower patients to regain control of their lives is an immensely gratifying prospect that fuels my dedication to this field. As a woman, I understand the unique challenges and experiences that women face, both physically and emotionally. I aim to bring a compassionate and empathetic perspective to my practice. Women often encounter gender-specific health issues that require specialized care and understanding. Through my role as a physical therapist, I hope to create a safe and inclusive space for women to seek treatment, ensuring that they receive the utmost care and support throughout their healing journey. Gender disparities persist in various professional fields, including healthcare. As a woman entering the healthcare industry, I am committed to breaking down these stereotypes and promoting gender equality. By excelling in my studies and demonstrating competence, I hope to inspire other women to pursue careers in healthcare without hesitation. I believe that by actively participating and contributing as a woman in this field, I can challenge societal norms and empower future generations of women to pursue their dreams unencumbered by gender biases. In addition to providing direct patient care, I am passionate about advocating for preventative care and health education. Through community outreach programs, I intend to educate individuals, particularly women, about the importance of physical health, injury prevention, and the benefits of physical therapy. By spreading awareness and knowledge, I aim to empower women to take control of their well-being and make informed decisions regarding their health. As a woman in the medical field, I aim to bring a compassionate and empathetic perspective to patient care, break gender stereotypes, advocate for preventative care, and support and mentor other aspiring female healthcare professionals. By leveraging my knowledge, skills, and personal experiences, I am determined to contribute to advancing healthcare, leaving a lasting and meaningful impact on the lives of those I serve. I am ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead and look forward to making a difference as a woman in the healthcare field. As a woman in healthcare, I recognize the significance of mentorship and support networks. I intend to actively participate in mentorship programs, providing guidance and encouragement to aspiring female healthcare professionals. By sharing my experiences, struggles, and triumphs, I hope to inspire and empower women to overcome obstacles and pursue their ambitions fearlessly. Furthermore, I aim to foster an inclusive and supportive environment within my future workplace, where all individuals, regardless of gender, feel valued and empowered to thrive.

Soccer, motorcycles, and cancer have influenced my choice of career. I am a passionate person who aspires to make a difference in the healthcare field, particularly in the field of physical therapy. My personal experiences and the impact they have had on my life have shaped my desire to pursue a career in this area. One significant influence on my decision to become a physical therapist is my own experience with sports injuries. I encountered several injuries at a young age and have had the opportunity to work closely with physical therapists who played a pivotal role in my recovery process. Their expertise and compassionate care not only facilitated my physical healing but also inspired me to assist others in their journey to regain their passion for sports. Witnessing the transformative power of physical therapy ignited my fascination with the profession and solidified my commitment to helping individuals overcome physical limitations. Another crucial factor that motivated me to pursue a career in physical therapy was my father's near-fatal motorcycle accident. This incident occurred in 2016 when his motorcycle was struck by a hit-and-run driver, resulting in critical injuries. Throughout his difficult recovery process, physical therapists played a significant role in his rehabilitation. Witnessing their dedication, expertise, and life-changing impact left an overwhelming impression on me. It emphasized the crucial role physical therapy plays in restoring functionality, independence, and overall quality of life after traumatic incidents. Furthermore, my father's battle with cancer in 2020 furthered my determination to enter the healthcare field. Observing the support provided by healthcare professionals, including physical therapists, during his treatment journey was a deeply impactful experience. It showed me the enormous impact of rehabilitative care and reinforced my commitment to providing the same level of support, empathy, and expertise to my future patients. These experiences have instilled in me a set of values and beliefs centered around the significance of physical well-being. I firmly believe in the power of physical therapy to positively impact the lives of individuals facing physical limitations, injuries, or chronic conditions. Through compassionate care, personalized treatment plans, and empowering individuals to overcome physical obstacles, I aspire to contribute to the field of physical therapy and help patients reclaim their independence, functionality, and overall well-being. My passion for becoming a physical therapist is driven by a deep desire to make a positive impact on the lives of others just as others have done in my life. My encounters with sports injuries as well as witnessing my father's recovery after a near-fatal accident and battle with cancer, have profoundly influenced my decision. These experiences have reinforced my belief in the importance of physical well-being and the positive impact of physical therapy. By dedicating myself to this field, I aim to provide compassionate care, personalized treatment, and support to individuals striving to overcome physical limitations and enhance their overall quality of life.

Life is full of unexpected adversities that test our resilience and determination. Some families have a single traumatic event that they need to work through, my family has had two. These challenges have influenced my education, career aspirations, and personal growth. The lessons learned from supporting my father through these adversities have instilled within me a deep sense of gratitude, compassion, and determination to make a difference in the lives of others. In September 2016, a reckless driver swerved into my dad’s lane, causing a near-fatal motorcycle accident. My father, a symbol of strength and inspiration, was knocked down on the highway He suffered critical injuries, underwent an emergency splenectomy, and spent a week in the intensive care unit. The impact of this accident on our family was profound, but it was my father's unwavering resilience that kept us going during those challenging times. Unfortunately, in January 2020, our family received another blow when my father was diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma. This required extensive surgery to remove lymph nodes, tonsils, and parts of his tongue and cheek. He endured chemotherapy and radiation, all while dealing with the challenges imposed by the pandemic. Despite the physical and emotional toll, he never complained or allowed his illness to hinder his responsibilities. He continued to work remotely during the pandemic and his resilience and unwavering commitment to his family were awe-inspiring. My passion for becoming a physical therapist is fueled by my desire to help others. From a young age, I experienced sports injuries and had the opportunity to work closely with physical therapists. Their expertise and compassionate care played a crucial role in my recovery and allowed me to return to the activities I love. These interactions sparked my fascination with this medical profession and ignited my desire to assist others in reclaiming their passion for sports. I aspire to become a physical therapist so that I can help individuals overcome physical limitations. These challenges we have faced as a family have had a deep impact on my life. I have learned that resilience is not just about bouncing back from adversity but also about adapting, making tough decisions, and finding strength within oneself. It has also made me aware of the financial responsibilities my family faces due to medical bills. As a result, I understand that a significant weight of the financial burden for my college education rests on my shoulders. Winning this scholarship would bring me closer to fulfilling my dream of becoming a physical therapist specializing in sports injuries. My family's journey through a life-altering accident and my father's battle with cancer have taught me valuable lessons in resilience, gratitude, and compassion. These experiences have shaped my career aspirations and instilled in me a deep desire to make a positive difference in the lives of others. Winning this scholarship would help me achieve my goals and contribute to the field of physical therapy.

During my high school experience, I was presented with considerable challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic and my dad's subsequent battle with cancer tested my resilience. Despite these hardships, I managed to stay on top of my studies, take part in extracurricular activities, and still help in my community. My parents have instilled in me the values of perseverance and resilience, which have played an important role in helping me face and overcome challenges. Two books that have had a substantial influence on me are Paulo Coelho's "The Alchemist" and R.J. Palacio's "Wonder." From "The Alchemist", I learned about the importance of never giving up on pursuing one's dreams, even in the face of adversity. Meanwhile, "Wonder" taught me the power of kindness, empathy, and finding strength within myself while triumphing over personal hardships. The power of these stories has inspired me to pursue my goal of becoming a physical therapist. I have also found movies to be a significant influence on my life and aspirations. Two films that had a meaningful effect on me were "The Blind Side" and "Soul." The message of "The Blind Side" showed me how powerful kindness and compassion can be, something I aspire to share with those around me who may not have access to resources. While "Soul" gave me insight into finding my purpose in life and doing everything necessary to achieve it. Despite the challenges posed by remote learning, I continued to work hard academically. In addition, I was involved in different activities like cheerleading, dancing, and YMCA volunteering. This improved my management skills, teamwork talents, and discipline - demonstrating that success is not only achieved via academic accomplishments but also through personal growth, community service, and being able to make an impact on society. Winning this scholarship would be crucial in helping me achieve my professional goal of becoming a physical therapist specializing in sports injuries. I come from a middle-class family, but since I am the youngest of five, the financial responsibility for college will undoubtedly be mine to share with my parents. I plan to attain a pre-professional degree at Texas Tech University, followed by a postgraduate degree in physical therapy. My dream is to heal young athletes and get them back on the field so they can keep playing what they love. Along with my studies, I hope to make an impact on the people around me, encouraging them to stay resilient in pursuit of their dreams. The lessons I have learned from books, films, and family, along with the challenges faced during high school have served as powerful motivators in shaping my goals and aspirations. I aspire to positively impact those around me and encourage them to never give up on their dreams. I'm hoping that by doing so, I will inspire others to do the same and create a wave of positivity throughout my community.

The experience of witnessing a loved one battle cancer can have a profound impact on an individual's life. In my case, my father's courageous fight against squamous cell carcinoma has not only shaped my perspective on life but has also significantly influenced my education and career aspirations. My father's cancer journey has impacted my goals, highlighting the strength, resilience, and gratitude that have emerged from this challenging experience. The diagnosis of my father's cancer during my freshman year of high school brought about a shift in priorities. While the world grappled with a global pandemic, my focus became centered on supporting my father's fight against the disease. This event compelled me to rethink the significance of education and career ambitions, emphasizing the value of spending time with loved ones and cherishing every moment. Witnessing the fragility of life has instilled in me a deep appreciation for meaningful connections and has motivated me to make the most of my educational opportunities. Throughout my father's treatment process, resilience and family support played a pivotal role. As he underwent surgeries, chemotherapy, and radiation, my mother, sister, and I stood by his side, offering unwavering support. Despite the physical and emotional challenges, we remained a united front, sharing the burden and providing strength to one another. This collective resilience has enhanced my own ability to face adversity and has deepened my understanding of the importance of emotional support in healthcare settings. It has fueled my determination to be a compassionate physical therapist, offering not only physical rehabilitation but also emotional support to patients and their families. My father's victorious battle against cancer has filled me with an overwhelming sense of gratitude. Witnessing his strength and determination to overcome countless obstacles has reshaped my perspective on life. It has taught me to find joy in the simplest moments and to appreciate the blessings that come my way. This gratitude has permeated into my educational journey, pushing me to seize every opportunity to learn and grow as I work towards my physical therapy degree. I am grateful for the chance to make a positive impact on the lives of others, just as my father's healthcare team did for him. The experience of supporting my father throughout his cancer journey has nurtured within me a profound sense of compassion. I have witnessed firsthand the physical and emotional toll that cancer takes on individuals and their families. This has ignited a desire within me to make a positive impact in the lives of others, particularly in the field of healthcare. Inspired by the dedicated cancer team that cared for my father, I aspire to be a compassionate and empathetic physical therapist, providing personalized care and making a lasting impact on the lives of my patients. My father's battle with cancer has left an indelible mark on my life, significantly influencing my education and career goals. The experience has shifted my priorities, reminding me of the value of time and meaningful connections. It has cultivated resilience and reinforced the importance of family support. Moreover, it has instilled in me a deep sense of gratitude and compassion, propelling me toward a career focused on making a positive impact in the lives of others. As my father stands today, cancer-free and vibrant, he remains my hero, inspiring me to pursue my aspirations with unwavering determination. Through his journey, I have learned that adversity can serve as a catalyst for personal growth, resilience, and a passion to make a difference in the world.

Ode to Millennials-Gen Z: A Rendezvous with Destiny The Ode to Millennials-Gen Z strikes a nerve with me regarding the future that awaits my generation. We will inherit a weighty burden: a bankrupt country and a bankrupt world. This striking statement captures the gravity of the challenges that lie ahead and positions Millennials and Gen Z as the torchbearers of a new era—the "Greatest Generation 2.0." As a Millennials-Gen Zer, I know we will face a multitude of complex issues on a global scale. Economic instability, environmental crises, political polarization, and social disparities are just some of the pressing problems that demand our attention and action. We are inheriting a bankrupt country that signifies not only financial difficulties but also a sense of broken systems and institutions that require significant reform. However, we have immense potential and capacity for greatness within these generations. The reference to "The Greatest Generation 2.0" draws parallels with the resilient and transformative spirit exhibited by the generation that weathered the hardships of the Great Depression and World War II. It suggests that Millennials and Gen Zers have the opportunity to rise to the occasion, to address the challenges we inherited, and to shape a better future. My generation has unique qualities and strengths and an inclination towards activism, social consciousness, and a desire for positive change. We have a propensity for innovation, collaboration, and leveraging technology for meaningful impact. These attributes position us as catalysts for transformation, armed with the tools, knowledge, and determination to tackle the problems we face. In essence, the Ode to Millennials-Gen Z serves as a call to action, urging my generation to embrace our destiny and rise to the challenges before us. It acknowledges the weight of the world we will inherit but also instills a sense of hope, resilience, and purpose. It invites Millennials and Gen Zers to become the architects of a brighter future, leveraging our collective power and visionary thinking to rebuild, reform, and redefine what it means to be "The Greatest Generation 2.0."

I came into this world in April, which is National Volunteer Month, and I've been giving back to my community since before I could remember. My parents have devoted a lot of their time to helping out with various causes in our community. I jokingly refer to them as “chronic volunteers” because of the countless hours they've dedicated over the years. They have blessed others with their time and abilities. Along the way, I picked up and learned from their example and giving back has become an essential part of my identity. From the moment I was big enough to lug a bag of food, I have been collecting donations for our local food pantry. I loved helping to load up the car with our collected items from the neighbors' porches. Providing blankets and coats for those who needed them, along with food, towels, and blankets for the animal shelter, became just something that I did. It never really felt like giving, just doing my part. Helping others is an integral part of a healthy society where both parties gain something. My experiences through volunteering have been rewarding to me as well. I've made connections with people that I might not have; I've learned new skills; and I've gained a perspective that's made me more self-aware. Until a few years ago I was very active in the sport of soccer. When I stopped playing, I missed it, so I contacted the local YMCA to see if there was a way that volunteer in their program. It just so happened that they had an elementary school soccer team that didn't have a coach so I jumped at the chance to stay involved. I have been coaching them for a few years and it has been an extremely rewarding experience for me. Watching these kids learn how to play with enthusiasm, teaching them new skills, while also instilling in them a passion for the game has brought me tremendous joy. Sadly, I have had to say goodbye to my little soccer team, since I am moving to another city for college. I promised them that I would try to make it to a few of their games if I can, but I will definitely be cheering them on from afar. Once I get settled into college life, I will find another worthy cause to volunteer my time and help those in need, since that is an important part of who I am.

If I could convince everyone in the world read just one book, it would be Wonder by R.J. Palacio. As I sit alone in my room, I stare at the cover, reminiscing about the first time I read the book. It was years ago, but the memories are still fresh in my mind. The story of Auggie, a boy born with a facial deformity, has touched me in a way that few books ever have. I first read it in elementary school and was deeply moved by the character of Auggie and his struggles. I was obsessed with the story and convinced my entire family to read it so we could all discuss it at dinner. My mother cried at the end, my father praised the author for her incredible writing. The story of Auggie has made a profound impact on my life. It challenged my perspective and left me forever changed. Because that's the power of a great story. It can move us, transform us, and open our eyes to a world we never knew existed. I began to see people differently—I could look beyond someone's outward appearance and appreciate their inner qualities instead. I was able to relate to different elements of Auggie's struggles—the bullying he endured, his family's unconditional love, and ultimately, his triumph in the face of adversity. It is in this spirit that I would encourage everyone in the world to read Wonder. If just one person can be touched by this story like I was, then my hope is that it will spread until it reaches every single corner of this planet we call home. There is so much to learn from Auggie's journey, and I believe that if we all embraced its message of kindness, we could all benefit personally and create a better world.