Healthcare, to me, is the place where science, service, and humanity meet. Growing up after the loss of my father at a young age, and later my stepfather during my freshman year of college, I saw firsthand how illness and grief affect not only the body but the entire family. Those experiences planted a deep desire in me to be on the other side of that equation one day, to be someone who brings clarity in confusion, comfort in fear, and hope in moments that feel hopeless. That desire, combined with my love for biochemistry and the life sciences, is what led me to pursue a degree in healthcare. As a biochemistry major, I am fascinated by how intricate molecular processes can shape a person’s health, and how understanding those processes can be the key to better treatments and earlier interventions. But my motivation goes beyond curiosity. I want to use that knowledge to care for people who are scared, in pain, or overwhelmed by diagnoses they don’t fully understand. Healthcare is not just about diagnosing and prescribing; it is about listening, explaining, and standing alongside patients and their families in some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives. My own experiences with loss taught me how powerful it is when someone truly sees and supports you in those moments, and that is the kind of provider I aspire to be. As a woman in healthcare, I hope to contribute not only clinical skills, but also representation and advocacy. Women bring unique perspectives shaped by lived experiences, caregiving roles, and the challenges of navigating systems that have not always welcomed them into leadership. I understand what it feels like to step into spaces where you are not sure you fully belong, whether as a daughter of immigrants, a grieving child trying to stay strong for her family, or a young woman in demanding STEM courses. Those experiences have made me empathetic, resilient, and determined to make sure others feel seen and valued. In my future career, I hope to make a positive impact in three key ways. First, through compassionate, patient-centered care: taking time to explain complex information in understandable terms and recognizing each patient’s story, culture, and fears. Second, through education and mentorship: encouraging young women and students from underrepresented backgrounds to pursue healthcare and helping them navigate academic and professional challenges. Third, through advocacy for more equitable access to care: supporting initiatives and practices that ensure people of all backgrounds can receive high-quality treatment, not just those with resources or connections. Pursuing a degree in healthcare is demanding, academically, emotionally, and financially, but it is a challenge I welcome because of the impact it will allow me to have. I want to be part of a healthcare system that is more inclusive, compassionate, and innovative, and I believe women will play a vital role in shaping that future. As a woman in this field, my goal is to blend scientific rigor with empathy, to honor the sacrifices and stories that shaped me, and to help build a world where every patient feels heard, every life is valued, and every girl who dreams of wearing a white coat or working in a lab knows that there is a place for her.

As a first-generation college student, my identity has profoundly shaped how I see the world and my role within it. Growing up in a household where English was not the primary language and where my parents navigated the challenges of a new country, I learned early on the values of resilience, adaptability, and hard work. Witnessing my parents’ sacrifices and their determination to provide a better future for my sister and me instilled in me a deep sense of responsibility, not only to honor their efforts but to pave the way for others in my community. My journey has not been without obstacles. Navigating the complexities of higher education without the guidance of family members who had walked this path before me was daunting. Financial pressures, cultural adjustments, and the weight of expectations sometimes felt overwhelming. Yet, these challenges have fueled my ambition and drive. I have learned to advocate for myself, seek out mentors, and embrace every opportunity for growth. My identity has also given me a unique perspective on empathy and inclusivity. I strive to uplift others who face similar barriers, whether through mentoring, volunteering, or simply sharing my story. I see my place in the world as both a bridge and a beacon, connecting cultures and inspiring others to pursue their dreams, no matter the obstacles.

Golf is more than a sport to me, it is a passion that has shaped my character, taught me resilience, and provided a space for growth and self-discovery. I enjoy playing golf because it offers a unique combination of physical skill, mental strategy, and emotional balance. Each round is a new challenge, requiring focus, adaptability, and patience, and it is this complexity that draws me back to the course, again and again. Unlike many sports, golf is deeply personal. Every shot is a reflection of my mindset in that moment; there is no one to blame for a missed putt or a wayward drive. This accountability has helped me develop self-awareness and emotional control, qualities that extend far beyond the fairway. I love the quiet concentration of lining up a shot, the satisfaction of a well-struck iron, and the camaraderie that comes from playing with others who share my enthusiasm. Golf is a sport that rewards persistence and humility, teaching me to accept setbacks as part of the journey and to celebrate small victories along the way. One of the most rewarding aspects of golf is its ability to bring people together. I have met some of my closest friends through golf, and I cherish the moments of encouragement, laughter, and friendly competition we share. As a team captain in high school, I learned the importance of leadership and support, striving to create an environment where every player felt valued and motivated to improve. Golf has also given me the opportunity to mentor younger athletes through programs like First Tee, where I help instill confidence and sportsmanship in the next generation of golfers. However, my journey in golf has not been without its challenges, particularly as a female athlete in a sport that has historically been male-dominated. Early on, I noticed disparities in resources, recognition, and opportunities for girls compared to boys. Girls’ tournaments often received less attention, and we sometimes struggled to secure equal practice times or quality equipment. There were moments when I felt overlooked or underestimated, not because of my skill, but because of my gender. These challenges motivated me to become an advocate for myself and my teammates. As captain, I worked with coaches and administrators to ensure our team had access to the same facilities and support as the boys’ team. I organized joint practices and clinics to foster a sense of unity and mutual respect between teams. Through persistence and open communication, I helped create a more inclusive environment where female golfers felt empowered to pursue their goals. Another challenge has been overcoming stereotypes and proving that female golfers are just as dedicated and capable as their male counterparts. There were times when I faced skepticism or dismissive attitudes, but I learned to let my performance speak for itself. I focused on continuous improvement, setting personal goals and pushing myself to excel. The satisfaction of achieving a new personal best or leading my team to a strong finish was all the sweeter knowing the obstacles I had overcome. Golf has taught me that true success is not just about winning tournaments, but about personal growth, resilience, and the ability to inspire others. I am proud to be a female golfer, and I hope to pave the way for more girls to discover the joy and empowerment that golf can offer. The lessons I have learned on the course, perseverance, leadership, and self-belief, will continue to guide me in all areas of my life, including my future career in medicine.