Dried mud. Chocolate pudding. Coffee stain.
Depending on how you look at it, it could be anything.
I have a ginormous birthmark on my arm. Well, it’s not that big… but if someone sees me wearing a t-shirt, they might think I have a skin disease or beginning my transformation into a monkey. I always viewed my birthmark as some sort of a monster—the sole reason my friends teased and called me names like “monkey boy.” Having to spend the rest of my life with a ‘monster,’ I questioned how we even met.
Starting from the fundamentals in Honors Biology, I quickly became amazed by the countless organs and tissues the body consists of. From the lymphatic system combating diseases to the integumentary system providing a barrier against pathogens, I was fascinated by the intricacies of billions of cells working together to allow our bodies to function.
Most importantly, I found the answers I was looking for. I discovered my birthmark is a result of an overgrowth of pigment cells and its significance in Chinese culture—a birthmark is symbolic of good luck and prosperity. Now, I no longer view it as a monster, but rather a lucky sign, inviting me to dive into the cause of the mark and explore a lifelong interest in biology.
Finally learning why I have a birthmark, my interest in biology intensified when I discovered the regenerative ability of plants. Even if a plant is cut to its stem, the leaves, stem, and roots will regrow under the right conditions of water and sunlight. Observing plants regenerate as if nothing happened, I pondered whether humans could do the same. Under my school’s biomedical science program, I investigated the components of plants, examined their cells at a microscopic level, and learned that plants consist of unique meristematic cells capable of transforming into various plant tissues. Seeing the applications of biology and cell regeneration to addressing human illnesses, particularly the lack of access to organ transplants, I became increasingly interested in medicine.
Immersing myself in health-related courses like Cultural and Legal Topics in Healthcare, I discovered who the true monster is: the current healthcare system. I learned that millions from low-income households cannot receive medical treatment due to the financial strain of seeking assistance. Coming from a low-income background, this injustice hit too close to home. It brought back memories of my mother avoiding the doctor as a visit is equivalent to a week’s worth of groceries. Just like my birthmark, I want to find the root problem of the healthcare system, but for now, I cannot watch this monster continue to ruin the lives of millions.
Determined to take action, I found myself volunteering at a local hospital and working at a doctor’s office. Throughout transporting and talking to patients, I listened to their struggles of not having enough to afford food or fear of being unable to pay their medical bills. I noticed a trend: many were unaware of publicly available government resources. One after the other, I patiently assisted numerous low-income individuals to register for governmental programs like CalFresh, Medicaid, and Medicare. Although I recognized my ability to positively affect others, there’s still more work to be done. From here, I aim to continue my search to amplify my impact.
While something as small as a birthmark sparked my interest in biology, my involvement in my community helped me harness that interest to realize the bigger purpose: increasing the accessibility of healthcare for everyone. Being the first in my family to attend college, I will succeed not just for myself, but for my family and the countless others from low-income communities. I aspire to become a physician and provide affordable care to the public. Though the journey ahead is difficult, I will spearhead initiatives to revolutionize the healthcare system, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their financial situation, can access the quality healthcare they deserve.