The experiences I had as an assistant counselor at Camp Krem Yosemite, a summer retreat for disabled people of all ages, is my central motivation to pursue a high education. I was able to witness first-hand how such assistive technology can make a world a more inclusive and equitable place. Specifically, the communication device enabled campers with speech or language impairments to express themselves and interact with others. Many of the campers I took care of used and even showed me how their text-to-speech software let them type their thoughts, which then would then be articulated aloud by the device. As I conversed with these campers through their communication devices, I found myself in awe and constantly grateful for being able to hear their personal stories at bed, joke around with them during a marshmallow roasting session, and be fully ready to meet any requests they had. Not only did the communication device make way for meaningful connection between peoples, but it gave them independence and self confidence. For many of my campers, being able to communicate without constant reliance on others was empowering. They could ask for assistance when needed, vocalize and express their opinions, and make choices about their own lives. From using telling me what they wanted to eat for breakfast, choosing which activities they wanted to join, to asking for an allergy medication, the communication device gave them a great level of autonomy, something that may seem ordinary to those who can speak freely as they wish, but a significant step toward self-reliance for non-verbal individuals. Moreover, throughout high school, I pursued and led neurobiological and chemotherapeutic medicinal chemistry research. From synthesizing various podophyllotoxin-derived compounds to conducting in vitro and in vivo bioassays, I developed a fascination with the very chemical drugs used to treat diseases and gained insight into the intricate process of drug discovery. My research experience deepened my appreciation for the critical role that research plays in advancing our understanding of disease mechanisms and fueled my passion for developing innovative therapies that address unmet medical needs. The communication device and my research experience has personally inspired me to study neuroscience in college. I realized that the intersection of technology and neuroscience holds the key to unlocking even greater potential for people with disabilities. I plan to major in Neuroscience with a sub-focus on Computer Science in college and earn a MD degree to become a research physician in the future. I hope that though my education, I can make a tangible difference in the lives of people like my campers by developing assistive technologies for those with neurological and cognitive conditions. This scholarship will help me pursue an education that will give me the intellectual ability and professional resources to press forward my commitment to pursuing research centered on the needs of the disabled community on a larger scale and with greater impact as a college student and future physician.

As an assistant counselor at Camp Krem Yosemite, a summer retreat for disabled people of all ages, I was able to witness first-hand how such assistive technology can make a world a more inclusive and equitable place. The communication device enabled campers with speech or language impairments to express themselves and interact with others. Many of the campers I took care of used and even showed me how their text-to-speech software let them type their thoughts, which then would then be articulated aloud by the device. As I conversed with these campers through their communication devices, I found myself in awe and constantly grateful for being able to hear their personal stories at bed, joke around with them during a marshmallow roasting session, and be fully ready to meet any requests they had. Not only did the communication device make way for meaningful connection between peoples, but it gave them independence and self confidence. For many of my campers, being able to communicate without constant reliance on others was empowering. They could ask for assistance when needed, vocalize and express their opinions, and make choices about their own lives. From using telling me what they wanted to eat for breakfast, choosing which activities they wanted to join, to asking for an allergy medication, the communication device gave them a great level of autonomy, something that may seem ordinary to those who can speak freely as they wish, but a significant step toward self-reliance for non-verbal individuals. Moreover, throughout high school, I pursued and led neurobiological and chemotherapeutic medicinal chemistry research. From synthesizing various podophyllotoxin-derived compounds to conducting in vitro and in vivo bioassays, I developed a fascination with the very chemical drugs used to treat diseases and gained insight into the intricate process of drug discovery. My research experience deepened my appreciation for the critical role that research plays in advancing our understanding of disease mechanisms and fueled my passion for developing innovative therapies that address unmet medical needs. The communication device and my research experience has personally inspired me to study and pursue research centered on neuroscience in college. I realized that the intersection of technology and neuroscience holds the key to unlocking even greater potential for people with disabilities. That is why I plan to major in Neuroscience in college and become a research physician in the future so I can make a tangible difference in the lives of people like my campers by both treating and developing assistive technologies for those with neurological and cognitive conditions. With this scholarship, I can pursue an education that will give me the intellectual ability and professional resources to press forward my commitment to pursuing research centered on the needs of the disabled community on a larger scale and with greater impact as a college student and future physician.

The movie Theory of Everything depicts the story of physicist Stephen Hawking, who struggled with motor neuron disease and how he used a communication device to communicate himself and his work throughout his life. When I first watched this movie, I realized the extent to which technological advancements can have a positive impact in healthcare and it inspired me to take it into my own hands to bring about technological innovation aimed to improve people's life experiences. Recently, as an assistant counselor at Camp Krem Yosemite, a summer retreat for disabled people of all ages, I was able to witness first-hand how such assistive technology can make a world a more inclusive and equitable place. The communication device enabled campers with speech or language impairments to express themselves and interact with others. Many of the campers I took care of used and even showed me how their text-to-speech software let them type their thoughts, which then would then be articulated aloud by the device. As I conversed with these campers through their communication devices, I found myself in awe and constantly grateful for being able to hear their personal stories at bed, joke around with them during a marshmallow roasting session, and be fully ready to meet any requests they had. Not only did the communication device make way for meaningful connection between peoples, but it gave them independence and self confidence. For many of my campers, being able to communicate without constant reliance on others was empowering. They could ask for assistance when needed, vocalize and express their opinions, and make choices about their own lives. From using telling me what they wanted to eat for breakfast, choosing which activities they wanted to join, to asking for an allergy medication, the communication device gave them a great level of autonomy, something that may seem ordinary to those who can speak freely as they wish, but a significant step toward self-reliance for non-verbal individuals. Moreover, throughout high school, I pursued and led neurobiological and chemotherapeutic medicinal chemistry research. From synthesizing various podophyllotoxin-derived compounds to conducting in vitro and in vivo bioassays, I developed a fascination with the very chemical drugs used to treat diseases and gained insight into the intricate process of drug discovery. My research experience deepened my appreciation for the critical role that research plays in advancing our understanding of disease mechanisms and fueled my passion for developing innovative therapies that address unmet medical needs. The communication device and my research experience has personally inspired me to study neuroscience in college. I realized that the intersection of technology and neuroscience holds the key to unlocking even greater potential for people with disabilities. I hope I can make a tangible difference in the lives of people like my campers by developing assistive technologies for those with neurological and cognitive conditions. Though not all technological advances necessarily make the world a better place, assistive technologies stand out as a positive force for change. With this scholarship, I can pursue an education that will give me the intellectual ability and professional resources to press forward my commitment to pursuing research centered on the needs of the disabled community on a larger scale and with greater impact as a college student and future physician.

Friday, 7pm. Donation center. Saturday, 6am. Soup Kitchen. Sunday, 1pm. Back to the donation center. Repeat. This was what a typical weekend looked like for me throughout high school as a volunteer. However, I learned little about service. I’d seen adults tutting as they handed a family ragged shoe boxes, even whispering about sanitariness when a homeless man accidentally spilled water. But as a mere student, there was no way I could challenge their opinions. I was diagnosed with anorexia shortly before high school. Endless health surveys with a series of “yes or no” questions flattened my identity into nothing more than a patient file. Those that knew of my diagnosis judged me based on the disorder. They assumed I was obsessed with beauty when in reality, I could not even look in the mirror. They accused me of being ungrateful for not finishing grandma's hotteok; they had no idea that every bite was torture. I was no longer seen as a person; I was an anorexic patient. After I recovered, I desperately wanted my family and friends to forget about my diagnosis, convince them that it really was not a big deal. I cracked jokes about my year-long recovery process: “At least I finally got over my fear of needles!” I hoped if I laughed hard enough, I would finally be seen as a normal teen. Following my experience, I realized how easily society forgets to see people as whole individuals, and I instead defined “service” for myself: to help people see themselves beyond the labels society “diagnoses” them with and treat them as whole individuals. As the Lead Captioner and Transcriber of my church's Prison Ministry Team, I’ve witnessed the transformative power of empathy and connection in helping individuals rebuild their lives. As a counselor at Camp Krem Yosemite, a camp serving disabled children, I saw the value of inclusivity and the importance of fostering a supportive community for all individuals. As a school district peer tutor for foster youth, I’ve further solidified my commitment to making a difference in the lives of marginalized communities. Over the years, serving others has become a mindset I have adopted that extends beyond philanthropy, volunteering, and donating. Whether I am caring for my cancer-battling grandpa or walking a new lab member through kinetics, I serve. In the future as a doctor, I will look past the machines hooked onto them, the blue hospital gowns, their patient files, their tired figures. I will be there as someone to remind them that though illness can be defined in just a few words, their individual identities should not be. With this scholarship, I can pursue an education that will give me the intellectual ability and professional resources to press forward my commitment to service on a larger scale and with greater impact as a college student and future physician.

As an assistant counselor at Camp Krem, a summer retreat for disabled people of all ages, I witnessed firsthand the impact that assistive technology can have to make a world a more inclusive and equitable place. Above the many assistive technologies that inspired me, the communication device struck me the most. The communication device enabled campers with speech or language impairments to express themselves and interact with others. Many of the campers I took care of used and even showed me how their text-to-speech software let them type their thoughts, which then would then be articulated aloud by the device. As I conversed with these campers through their communication devices, I found myself in awe and constantly grateful for being able to hear their personal stories at bed, joke around with them during a marshmallow roasting session, and be fully ready to meet any requests they had. Not only did the communication device make way for meaningful connection between peoples, but it gave them independence and self confidence. For many of my campers, being able to communicate without constant reliance on others was empowering. They could ask for assistance when needed, vocalize and express their opinions, and make choices about their own lives. From using telling me what they wanted to eat for breakfast, choosing which activities they wanted to join, to asking for an allergy medication, the communication device gave them a great level of autonomy, something that may seem ordinary to those who can speak freely as they wish, but a significant step toward self-reliance for non-verbal individuals. The impact of communication devices reaches beyond my Camp Krem community. The communication device is a testament to the power of technology to not only facilitate connection for abled people through social media and text messaging, but to create an inclusive world through providing people that do not have the ability to communicate freely the means to. The communication device has also personally inspired me to study neuroscience in college. I realized that the intersection of technology and neuroscience holds the key to unlocking even greater potential for people with disabilities. I hope I can make a tangible difference in the lives of people like my campers by developing assistive technologies for those with neurological and cognitive conditions. Though not all technological advances necessarily make the world a better place, assistive technologies stand out as a positive force for change.

Throughout high school, I have developed a passion for the science behind human disease and the medical field. I hope to major in Neuroscience in college and become a physician in the future. My journey towards a career in healthcare was deeply influenced by my personal experience with being treated for an eating disorder and the subsequent physical issues I encountered. Overcoming the disorder and enduring treatment in and out of the hospital was a difficult and transformative experience that tested both my physical and mental resilience. The stigma surrounding mental illness only exacerbated the sense of shame and guilt I felt, making it difficult to reach out for help or confide in others about my struggles. Through the adversity of the eating disorder, I gained a newfound appreciation for the importance of self-care and resilience in the face of adversity. This experience marked my first personal exposure to healthcare and sparked a profound interest in the intersection of medicine, mental health, and holistic wellness. I became acutely aware of the profound impact that healthcare professionals can have on the lives of their patients, inspiring me to contribute to the field in a meaningful way. What further solidified my desire for a career in healthcare was first-hand exploring medicinal chemistry research through joining a lab group starting my sophomore year in high school. I had the opportunity to contribute to the research and development of chemotherapeutic drugs derived from podophyllotoxin, a naturally occurring compound with anticancer properties. From synthesizing various compounds to conducting in vitro and in vivo assays, I developed a fascination with the very chemical drugs used to treat diseases and gained insight into the intricate process of drug discovery. My research experience deepened my appreciation for the critical role that research plays in advancing our understanding of disease mechanisms and fueled my passion for developing innovative therapies that address unmet medical needs for cancer patients. Moreover, through volunteering experiences in local hospitals and summer camps for the disabled, I found avenues to apply my desire to serve others in my community that were similarly struggling with physical or mental illnesses. and make a positive impact in my community. As a volunteer for the Veterans Affairs Hospital in Livermore, I had the opportunity to directly contribute to the healthcare needs of our nation's veterans, assisting with blood draws, processing samples, and supporting the vital work of the blood lab. As an assistant counselor for Camp Krem Yosemite, I was able to support and connect with disabled people of all ages that had also struggled with social stigma around their conditions. Through all of my experiences, I gained a deeper understanding of the importance of scientific inquiry, empathy, and advocacy in healthcare. I aspire to embody these values in my future practice as a physician. I hope this scholarship can support my commitment to using my education to make a tangible impact in the lives of those fighting against illnesses and diseases.

Throughout high school, I have developed a passion for the science behind human disease and the medical field. I hope to major in Neuroscience in college and become a physician in the future. My journey towards a career in healthcare was deeply influenced by my personal experience with being treated for an eating disorder and the subsequent physical issues I encountered. Overcoming the disorder and enduring treatment in and out of the hospital was a difficult and transformative experience that tested both my physical and mental resilience. The stigma surrounding mental illness only exacerbated the sense of shame and guilt I felt, making it difficult to reach out for help or confide in others about my struggles. Through the adversity of the eating disorder, I gained a newfound appreciation for the importance of self-care and resilience in the face of adversity. This experience marked my first personal exposure to healthcare and sparked a profound interest in the intersection of medicine, mental health, and holistic wellness. I became acutely aware of the profound impact that healthcare professionals can have on the lives of their patients, inspiring me to contribute to the field in a meaningful way. What further solidified my desire for a career in healthcare was first-hand exploring medicinal chemistry research through joining a lab group starting my sophomore year in high school. I had the opportunity to contribute to the research and development of chemotherapeutic drugs derived from podophyllotoxin, a naturally occurring compound with anticancer properties. From synthesizing various compounds to conducting in vitro and in vivo assays, I developed a fascination with the very chemical drugs used to treat diseases and gained insight into the intricate process of drug discovery. My research experience deepened my appreciation for the critical role that research plays in advancing our understanding of disease mechanisms and fueled my passion for developing innovative therapies that address unmet medical needs for cancer patients. Moreover, through volunteering experiences in local hospitals and summer camps for the disabled, I found avenues to apply my desire to serve others in my community that were similarly struggling with physical or mental illnesses. and make a positive impact in my community. As a volunteer for the Veterans Affairs Hospital in Livermore, I had the opportunity to directly contribute to the healthcare needs of our nation's veterans, assisting with blood draws, processing samples, and supporting the vital work of the blood lab. As an assistant counselor for Camp Krem Yosemite, I was able to support and connect with disabled people of all ages that had also struggled with social stigma around their conditions. Through all of my experiences, I gained a deeper understanding of the importance of scientific inquiry, empathy, advocacy in healthcare. I aspire to embody these values in my future practice as a physician. I hope this scholarship can support my commitment to using my education to make a tangible impact in the lives of those fighting against illnesses and diseases.

I hope to major in Neuroscience in college and become a physician-scientist specializing in cancer research and treatment in the future. My journey towards a career in healthcare was deeply influenced by my personal experience with being treated for an eating disorder and the subsequent physical issues I encountered. This experience marked my first exposure to the medical field and sparked a profound interest in the intersection of medicine, mental health, and holistic wellness. I became acutely aware of the profound impact that healthcare professionals can have on the lives of their patients, inspiring me to contribute to the field in a meaningful way. What further solidified my desire for a career in healthcare was first-hand exploring medicinal chemistry research through joining a lab group starting my sophomore year in high school. I had the opportunity to contribute to the research and development of chemotherapeutic drugs derived from podophyllotoxin, a naturally occurring compound with anticancer properties. From synthesizing various compounds to conducting in vitro and in vivo assays, I developed a fascination with the very chemical drugs used to treat diseases and gained insight into the intricate process of drug discovery. My research experience deepened my appreciation for the critical role that research plays in advancing our understanding of disease mechanisms and fueled my passion for developing innovative therapies that address unmet medical needs for cancer patients. One of my most significant achievements, which stands as a testament to my dedication and perseverance, was presenting the research I had diligently pursued with my team over two years at the American Chemical Society National Conference last fall as the lead speaker. Among the various other conferences I presented at, this achievement holds a special place in my heart because the conference is typically exclusive to graduate and doctoral degree students, making it a rare opportunity for a high school student like myself. Being able to share my research to such audience reaffirmed my passion for scientific inquiry and inspired me to continue conducting medicinal chemistry research beyond my time in high school. Another notable accomplishment that I am proud of is receiving the Department of Veterans Affairs Center for Development & Civic Engagement Certification for my role as a Veterans Affairs hospital blood lab volunteer. For three consecutive summers, I had dedicated my time and energy to supporting the vital work of the blood lab, where I witnessed firsthand the importance of blood donation in saving lives and supporting the healthcare needs of our nation's veterans. Receiving this award reinforced my commitment to serving others and making a positive difference in the lives of those in need. Ultimately, what attracted me most to a career in healthcare was my personal experience in being treated for a disease and the opportunity to combine my scientific curiosity with my passion for serving others in a meaningful and impactful way. I hope this scholarship can support my commitment to using my education to make a tangible impact in the lives of those fighting against illnesses and diseases.

My personal journey of overcoming an eating disorder has deeply influenced my approach to nursing and my aspirations for the future. I realized how easily society forgets to see people as whole individuals, how dehumanizing it feels to be on the receiving end of such treatment. As such, throughout high school, I have developed a deep empathy and understanding for individuals struggling with mental and physical health issues. With a profound appreciation for the importance of health and a deep-seated determination to serve others who may be facing similar struggles as I did, I'm committed to providing compassionate care for my future patients. My dedication to serving others is exemplified through my various volunteer roles. As the Lead Captioner and Transcriber of my church's Prison Ministry Team, I’ve witnessed the transformative power of empathy and connection in helping individuals rebuild their lives. Similarly, my experience as a counselor at Camp Krem Yosemite, a camp serving disabled children, has taught me the value of inclusivity and the importance of fostering a supportive community for all individuals. Through serving at my local Veterans Affair hospital and working as a school district peer tutor, I’ve further solidified my commitment to making a difference in the lives of others. Through these experiences, I’ve gained invaluable skills, perspectives, and a deep sense of fulfillment that motivates me to continue pursuing higher education. As a nurse, I hope to use my experience with overcoming an eating disorder to connect with patients facing similar challenges. I understand the complexities of mental health issues and the stigma that often surrounds them. By sharing my story and offering empathy and support, I aim to empower individuals on their path to recovery and help them navigate the healthcare system with confidence and dignity. Furthermore, my past experiences as a patient and as someone serving the vulnerable have heightened my awareness of the interconnectedness of physical and mental health. I recognize the critical role that nurses play in addressing both aspects of well-being and advocating for integrated care that treats the whole person. Moreover, I believe in the power of education to empower individuals to take control of their health. As a nurse, I plan to engage in community outreach programs, workshops, and health campaigns to raise awareness about preventive healthcare measures, including proper nutrition, exercise, mental health awareness, and early detection of health conditions. By equipping people with knowledge and skills, we can empower them to make informed decisions about their health and reduce the burden of preventable diseases. By integrating mental health support into public health initiatives and healthcare systems, we can strengthen resilience and reduce the risk of pandemics by addressing vulnerabilities at their root. Additionally, promoting self-care and healthy coping strategies can empower individuals to manage stress and maintain their overall health, which is essential for preventing the onset of both physical and mental health conditions.

The most influential person in my life has been my grandmother. Raised in a household deeply rooted in Christian and Asian values, my grandmother embodied the principles of faith, family, and community and led me to develop those very values in myself as well. Growing up, my grandmother taught me the importance of prioritizing serving marginalized communities with the purpose of living out the Gospel and approaching everyone with humility and gratitude. My dedication to serving others is exemplified through my various volunteer roles. As the Lead Captioner and Transcriber of my church's Prison Ministry Team, I’ve witnessed the transformative power of empathy and connection in helping individuals rebuild their lives. Similarly, my experience as a counselor at Camp Krem Yosemite, a camp serving disabled children, has taught me the value of inclusivity and the importance of fostering a supportive community for all individuals. Through serving at my local Veterans Affair hospital and working as a school district peer tutor, I’ve further solidified my commitment to making a difference in the lives of others. Through these experiences, I’ve gained invaluable skills, perspectives, and a deep sense of fulfillment that motivates me to continue pursuing higher education. More recently, I witnessed firsthand my grandmother's remarkable strength in the face of adversity. The constant battle with my body and food consumed my thoughts, eroding my self-esteem and sense of worth. Despite my attempts to hide my struggles, my grandmother, with her keen intuition and boundless love, recognized the pain behind my facade. Her unwavering faith and optimism taught me the importance of perseverance and hope in overcoming obstacles. Like her, I refused to let my struggles define me, choosing instead to embrace the journey towards healing with grace and resilience. Furthermore, my grandmother also imparted to me the wisdom of Asian traditions and cultural heritage. She emphasized the importance of filial piety, respect for elders, and the interconnectedness of family. Through her teachings, I gained a deep appreciation for my cultural roots and learned the significance of preserving and passing down our traditions to future generations. From last year, I had the opportunity to intern as a Korean translator. Serving as a bridge between English and Korean speakers, I witnessed firsthand the power of language in connecting people from different backgrounds and fostering understanding. My grandmother's teachings of empathy and cultural appreciation guided me in my role as a translator, enabling me to effectively convey messages and facilitate meaningful interactions between individuals. Above all, my grandmother has shaped my desire to pursue a career in healthcare. I am drawn to the field of medicine not only because of my passion for helping others but also because of my desire to provide culturally sensitive and compassionate care to diverse populations. Inspired by my grandmother's example, I aspire to embody the values of empathy, integrity, and service in my future practice as a physician.

I believe that I am a deserving candidate for this scholarship due to my my clear educational and career goals, dedication to academic excellence, and my unwavering commitment to serving others. My career goal is to become a physician, specializing in mental health. This aspiration stems from my own personal experiences with mental illness and the profound impact it has had on my life. Specifically, I have overcome an eating disorder and the anxiety stemming from recovery. I realized how easily society forgets to see people as whole individuals, how dehumanizing it feels to be on the receiving end of such treatment. As such, throughout high school, I have developed a deep empathy and understanding for individuals struggling with mental health issues. With a profound appreciation for the importance of mental and physical health and a deep-seated determination to serve others who may be facing similar struggles as I did, I'm committed to providing compassionate care for my future patients. My academic achievements reflect my commitment to persistence and excellence. Throughout high school, amidst playing on my school’s varsity girl’s golf team and engaging in extracurricular activities, I maintained a GPA of 4.36 while challenging myself with rigorous coursework comprising 11 AP classes. My dedication to serving others is exemplified through my various volunteer roles. As the Lead Captioner and Transcriber of my church's Prison Ministry Team, I’ve witnessed the transformative power of empathy and connection in helping individuals rebuild their lives. Similarly, my experience as a counselor at Camp Krem Yosemite, a camp serving disabled children, has taught me the value of inclusivity and the importance of fostering a supportive community for all individuals. Through serving at my local Veterans Affair hospital and working as a school district peer tutor, I’ve further solidified my commitment to making a difference in the lives of others. Through these experiences, I’ve gained invaluable skills, perspectives, and a deep sense of fulfillment that motivates me to continue pursuing higher education. By obtaining a formal education, I aim to combine my personal experiences, passion for serving others, and academic knowledge to become a physician who provides holistic care and advocates for the well-being of all individuals. Through dedication, empathy, and continuous learning, I’m committed to making a meaningful impact in healthcare and society. Receiving this scholarship would alleviate some of the financial burden associated with pursuing higher education, allowing me to focus more on my studies and extracurricular activities. It would provide me with the opportunity to further invest in my personal and professional growth, and to continue serving my community in meaningful ways. This scholarship would ultimately not only support my academic aspirations but also enable me to fulfill my lifelong dream of becoming a physician. I am confident that through this financial support, I will be able to achieve my aspirations and continue making a positive difference in my community and beyond.

Friday, 7pm. Donation center. Saturday, 6am. Soup Kitchen. Sunday, 1pm. Back to the donation center. Repeat. This was what a typical weekend looked like for my younger self when small groups in my old church were put on volunteering agendas. This routine went on for years, yet I learned little about service. To them, “homeless” meant dirty, addicted, lazy. “Poor” meant weak, hapless. But as a child, there was no way I could challenge their opinions. Sickened by the fact that I could only watch, I clung on to my given tasks. I stacked the plates faster, set the tables neater, and carried heavier boxes. The adults who watched my busy movements complimented my thoughtfulness. Yet I was puzzled by their praise. I had seen them tutting as they handed a family ragged shoe boxes during a Christmas drive, even whispering about sanitariness when a homeless man accidentally spilled water on the table. I was diagnosed with anorexia shortly before high school. Endless health surveys with a series of “yes or no” questions flattened my identity into nothing more than a patient file. Those that knew of my diagnosis judged me based on the disorder. They assumed I was obsessed with beauty when in reality, I could not even look in the mirror. They accused me of being ungrateful for not finishing grandma's hotteok; they had no idea that every bite was torture. I was no longer seen as a person; I was an anorexic patient. After I recovered, I desperately wanted my family and friends to forget about my diagnosis, convince them that it really was not a big deal. I cracked jokes about my year-long recovery process: “At least I finally got over my fear of needles!” I hoped if I laughed hard enough, I would finally be seen as a normal teen. Following my experience, I realized how easily society forgets to see people as whole individuals, how dehumanizing it feels to be on the receiving end of such treatment. Seeing my reflection in the faces of those in the past I could only watch, I defined “service” for myself: to help people see themselves beyond the labels society “diagnoses” them with and treat them as whole individuals. When transforming the pastors’ sermons for prisoners and recovering addicts, hours tick by as ten different ways to phrase a sentence swirl around in my head. I hope they can see themselves as more than isolated prisoners or addicts. At Camp Krem, I read the registration sheet that states M’s diagnosis, “William’s Syndrome,” intellectual and chronological age, medications, and her fears. But beyond this paper, I see her as a whole person with hobbies and a life no different than mine as we start debating the GOAT Marvel movie, share pictures of our dogs, and sing our voices out to Taylor Swift during karaoke. I hope she sees herself as someone more than just a woman with William’s. Over the years, serving others has become a mindset I have adopted that extends beyond philanthropy, volunteering, and donating. Whether I am caring for my cancer-battling grandpa or walking a new lab member through kinetics, I serve. In the future as a doctor, I will look past the machines hooked onto them, the blue hospital gowns, their patient files, their tired figures. I will be there as someone to remind them that though illness can be defined in just a few words, their individual identities should not be.