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Anna Kove

2x

Finalist

General information

Location
Los Angeles, CA
Age
21
Gender
Female
Religion
Jewish

Hobbies & Interests

  • Philanthropy
  • Volunteering
  • Community Service And Volunteering
  • Finance
  • Medicine
  • Advocacy And Activism
  • Anatomy
  • 4-H

Reading

  • Philosophy
  • Psychology
  • Cultural
  • Academic
  • Adventure
  • Health
  • Leadership
  • Biography
  • Social Science

I read books daily.

Bio

My name is Anna, and my passions lie in healthcare and philanthropy. I'm driven by an intrinsic desire to help others, particularly those experiencing vulnerable moments. Volunteering weekly at my local hospital's NICU and ER, obtaining my CNA certification, and dedicating over 800 hours to community service in the past three years are testaments to this commitment. My philanthropic work isn't about external rewards; it's an internal fire that fuels me. I'm continuing my education at UCLA, aspiring to enter the medical field and preserve the trust of those going through challenging times. My dream is to provide healthcare in underdeveloped countries, making a tangible difference in diverse communities. Leading Project Dot, a nonprofit that provides feminine hygiene kits, has shown me the pressing needs. Through determination and leadership, I've secured over $30,000 in grants, ensuring we can continue our crucial work. Alongside philanthropy, I've embraced entrepreneurship. I run a successful Poshmark business that promotes sustainable clothing and operates a dorm essentials website. These ventures allow me to explore my passion for business while making a positive impact. I am a strong scholarship candidate because my actions demonstrate a genuine dedication to service and a proactive approach to addressing societal needs. My experiences have equipped me with the skills and compassion necessary to contribute meaningfully to the medical field and beyond.

Education

University of California-Los Angeles

Bachelor's degree program

2023 – 2027

Majors:
  • Medicine
  • Health/Medical Preparatory Programs
  • Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other
  • Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Other
  • Human Biology
Minors:
  • Science, Technology and Society
GPA4.0 GPA

West Career and Technical Academy

High School

2019 – 2023

GPA4.0 GPA

Miscellaneous

Desired degree level:
Bachelor's degree program
Graduate schools of interest:
University of California-Los Angeles
Majors of interest:
Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Other, Medicine, Public Health, Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other, Health/Medical Preparatory Programs
Medical school interest:
Yes

Career

  • Created my own business account operating my own online store; selling pre owned clothing. ◆ Self started business and curated a successful online boutique selling used clothing to promote sustainable fashion

    Venture Capital & Private Equity · Poshmark

    Jan 2017 – Present

  • Owner/ Creator

    Consumer Goods · College Dorm Essentials

    Jan 2023 – Present

  • Started an account from 0 followers and grew it to 160,000+ in less than a year. Taking sponsorships and turning in into ads.

    Online Media · TikTok Marketing

    Jan 2018 – Present

  • Campaigning

    Political Organization · I-GOP Pac

    Jan 2022 – Present

  • Volunteer (front desk and NICU)

    Hospital & Health Care · Summerlin Hospital

    Jan 2021 – Present

Miscellaneous

Dream career field:
Medicine
Dream career goals:
Doctor
Has nursing license:
No

Future Interests

  • Advocacy
  • Volunteering
  • Philanthropy
  • Entrepreneurship
Emma Jane Hastie Scholarship
My healthcare journey is not defined merely by academic rigor, but by a relentless curiosity about how systemic barriers shape human biology. As a Public Health major with a minor in Entrepreneurship at UCLA, I have maintained a 4.0 GPA not for the sake of the grade, but to build the intellectual foundation necessary to dismantle those barriers. I aspire to be a physician who does not just treat symptoms in a clinic, but also actively builds the infrastructure needed to deliver care to those who need it most. For me, medicine is the intersection of laboratory science and social justice, a belief that has driven me to accumulate over 1,400 hours of community service. While my academic work provides the theory, my servitude creates the practice. The most profound impact I have made on my community began in Las Vegas with Project Dot, a nonprofit dedicated to ending period poverty. When I stepped into the role of President in 2021, I saw an organization with heart but limited reach. We were serving homeless and low-income individuals, including women, non-binary individuals, and trans men, but the need vastly outpaced our resources. I realized that "servitude" in this context meant more than just distribution; it meant advocacy and sustainable growth. I spearheaded an initiative to expand our community partnerships, growing our network from 18 to 25 charities across Las Vegas and extending our reach into Los Angeles. I focused heavily on the unglamorous work of grant writing and strategic planning, eventually securing over $30,000 in funding. This financial injection allowed us to double our impact, increasing our distribution from 2,700 to 3,812 hygiene kits per year. However, the numbers tell only half the story. The actual impact was in the dignity restored to those we served. By collaborating with volunteer coordinators to address the stigmas surrounding gender inequality and menstruation, we turned simple handouts into moments of connection and education. This experience taught me that adequate healthcare requires an entrepreneurial spirit, the ability to identify a gap, mobilize resources, and scale a solution. This philosophy now guides my clinical work as well. As a scribe for Volunteers in Medicine in Southern Nevada and a volunteer with the Kidney Disease Screening and Awareness Program (KDSAP) in Los Angeles, I work directly with underserved populations to facilitate access to free healthcare. Whether I am running urine screenings in a community center or charting patient histories for a physician, I am constantly reminded that medical expertise is useless if patients cannot access it. I am dedicated to a lifetime of servitude that bridges the gap between medical innovation and community access. My goal is to establish healthcare networks that integrate physician care with transportation services, ensuring that no patient is denied survival due to their zip code. This scholarship would not just help me fund my education; it would invest in a future physician who possesses the public health perspective to understand disparities, the entrepreneurial skills to solve them, and the heart to serve until the work is done.
Women in STEM Scholarship
Choosing a major is a pivotal step in shaping an individual's future. Pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Public Health with a Concentration in Medical Sciences while aiming for a STEM anesthesiologist career reflects a profound desire to bridge healthcare disparities and improve lives. My fascination with the human body and the ability of medical professionals to alleviate suffering developed at an early age. My personal experiences, including witnessing the neglect of vulnerable residents while volunteering at a nursing home, exposed me to the stark realities of healthcare disparities. This experience fueled my determination to pursue a path where I could directly impact patient care and advocate for systemic improvements. At UCLA, the stark contrast between the university's academic excellence and the surrounding community's healthcare needs, particularly concerning the homeless population's healthcare needs, further solidified my commitment to Medical Sciences. I chose public health as a foundational major because it provides a crucial understanding of the social determinants of health, essential for me as a future physician. My ultimate goal is to specialize in anesthesiology, a STEM-intensive field that requires a deep understanding of physiology, pharmacology, and technology. Anesthesiology allows me to intervene in critical moments directly, applying scientific rigor to patient care. My time at UCLA has been instrumental. The diverse clubs and programs at UCLA have allowed me to engage with like-minded individuals, fostering leadership skills and reinforcing my commitment to service. Volunteering at Summerlin Hills Hospital gave me invaluable insights into the healthcare system and the importance of compassionate care. Coupled with my involvement in HOSA Future Health Professionals during high school, these experiences have provided me with a robust foundation for a medical career. Balancing a rigorous GPA, part-time work, and extensive volunteering has been challenging, but my dedication to the field has fueled my perseverance. I plan to be a practicing anesthesiologist in a hospital setting, ideally within a teaching hospital, where I can contribute to research and mentor future physicians. My long-term goals extend beyond clinical practice. I aim to reduce healthcare disparities and improve access to quality care in rural and underserved areas. I envision establishing a network of transportation and healthcare facilities to ensure that individuals in these regions receive the medical attention they deserve. I aspire to advocate for systemic changes that promote equity and accessibility in healthcare. After graduating from medical school and completing my residency, I intend to research improving anesthetic techniques and patient outcomes, particularly in vulnerable populations. I also aim to contribute to medical education, ensuring that future physicians have the knowledge and compassion to serve diverse communities. In conclusion, my journey to becoming a STEM anesthesiologist reflects a profound commitment to making a positive impact. The experiences and interests that have shaped my academic path and career aspirations demonstrate my dedication and ambition. As I continue my studies at UCLA and pursue medical school, my passion for medicine and medical sciences will drive me to achieve my goals.
Manny and Sylvia Weiner Medical Scholarship
My goal to become a medical doctor comes from a strong desire to advocate for underserved communities and ensure equitable healthcare access. Growing up in Southern Nevada, I saw the healthcare disparities faced by marginalized populations. These experiences reinforced my commitment to medicine as a way to create meaningful change. Leading Project Dot, a nonprofit I founded, has been pivotal in my journey. The organization tackles period poverty and gender inequality, providing hygiene products to low-income women, trans men, and non-binary individuals. As president, I've led efforts that distributed over 10,000 kits, secured substantial grants, and formed partnerships with local charities. Seeing the gratitude of those we serve and hearing their stories has strengthened my resolve to address healthcare disparities. These experiences have taught me the importance of advocacy, which I plan to bring into my medical practice to drive systemic changes for vulnerable populations. My clinical experiences have also played a significant role in shaping my passion for medicine. During my rotations for my Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification, I encountered a nursing home resident who was mistreated and unable to advocate for herself. Speaking up on her behalf and ensuring her dignity was preserved was a pivotal moment, reinforcing the importance of patient advocacy in healthcare. Additionally, my weekly volunteer work at Summerlin Hospital, particularly in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), has given me insight into the challenges mothers and newborns face. Comforting NAS babies as they trembled and cried uncontrollably was both heartbreaking and inspiring. It deepened my understanding of healthcare providers' critical role in supporting families during their most vulnerable moments. However, my journey to becoming a physician has not been without significant obstacles. My family's financial circumstances have posed a constant challenge. My father, the sole breadwinner of our family, lost his job after 20 years, leaving us in economic turmoil. To help support my family, I have taken on multiple jobs while maintaining a rigorous academic schedule and dedicating substantial time to community service. Despite these challenges, I have proudly maintained a 4.0 GPA, volunteered over 800 hours, and secured crucial funding for my nonprofit. These struggles have taught me resilience, time management, and perseverance—qualities I know will serve me well as a physician. Having faced these difficulties, they will shape my profound understanding of patients' struggles when financial and systemic barriers stand in the way of accessing care. This understanding will allow me to approach patient care with empathy and a commitment to addressing medical needs and socioeconomic factors that impact health outcomes. My experiences have instilled in me a deep sense of compassion for voiceless individuals, and I am determined to advocate for my patients, ensuring their dignity and well-being are always prioritized. Ultimately, I aspire to become a physician to create a lasting and meaningful impact. Challenges have shaped my journey, but those challenges have only fueled my determination to build a healthcare system that is equitable and compassionate for all.
Women’s Health Research & Innovation Scholarship
Growing up in the vibrant yet often divided communities of Southern Nevada, I witnessed the silent struggles of women around me—struggles that shaped my passion for women’s health. Conversations about necessities like menstrual hygiene were often taboo, and it was clear that disparities in access to healthcare created profound inequities. These experiences planted in me a deep commitment to addressing systemic gender inequality, particularly in the realm of health, where these challenges often go unheard. In 2018, I channeled this commitment into founding Project Dot, a nonprofit dedicated to combating period poverty and gender inequality. Leading this initiative has been transformative. Every hygiene kit we distribute and every partnership we forge reflects a step toward restoring dignity to vulnerable populations. To date, we've distributed over 10,000 hygiene kits, secured substantial grant funding, and partnered with numerous local charities to ensure that low-income women, transgender men, and non-binary individuals don't have to choose between food and menstrual hygiene. What inspires me most about this work is the tangible resources we provide and the broader systemic inequities we're helping to address. I've learned that advocacy in women’s health requires more than resources; it demands a commitment to reshaping systems perpetuating disadvantages. My professional experiences have also profoundly shaped my passion for this field. During my Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) clinical rotations, I cared for nursing home residents who were often denied the respect and dignity they deserved. These experiences underscored the importance of compassionate care and the need for advocacy within healthcare systems. Similarly, my volunteer work at Summerlin Hospital's Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) gave me a unique window into women's challenges during critical moments. Supporting mothers and newborns in these delicate situations reinforced my aspiration to pursue a career that centers women’s health and emphasizes individualized, compassionate care. At UCLA, where I am pursuing a public health degree, I am honing the skills necessary to address these health disparities on a broader scale. I've gained expertise in population health, policy analysis, and community intervention strategies through my coursework. I'm particularly passionate about educating underserved communities on reproductive health and preventative care while working to reduce the stigma surrounding discussions of menstrual hygiene. One area that excites me is exploring innovative healthcare delivery models, including mobile clinics and telemedicine platforms. These initiatives have the potential to overcome financial and logistical barriers, making healthcare accessible to those who need it most. Looking ahead, I want to make a lasting impact in women’s health by dismantling disparities, combating stigma, and driving systemic change. Whether through direct patient care, community-based outreach, or advocacy for policy reforms, my goal is to ensure that every woman, regardless of her background or circumstances, has access to compassionate, comprehensive healthcare. This mission is deeply personal to me; I've seen the inequities firsthand and am determined to help create a future where healthcare is a right, not a privilege. If you'd like to learn more about my work or collaborate to advance equity in women’s health, I invite you to visit my organization, Project Dot, at https://projectdot.org. Together, we can work toward a future where healthcare is accessible, equitable, and empowering.
Jeune-Mondestin Scholarship
Growing up in Southern Nevada, I witnessed firsthand the challenges underserved populations face, particularly when accessing healthcare. These experiences shaped my values and inspired me to pursue healthcare as my field of study. Healthcare forms the bedrock of society through empathy, trust, and the ability to transform lives. For me, healthcare is more than just a career; it is a calling to make a difference. My journey began in high school, where I immersed myself in public health coursework and earned certifications as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) and Pharmacy Technician. These hands-on experiences in patient care opened my eyes to the realities of the medical field. Volunteering weekly at Summerlin Hospital, especially in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), profoundly impacted me. Holding and comforting NAS babies as they trembled uncontrollably taught me the profound difference healthcare professionals can make. It was then that I knew I wanted to dedicate my life to providing compassionate care and advocating for the most vulnerable members of society. During my clinical rotations for my CNA certification, I encountered a situation that further solidified my resolve. I witnessed a nursing home resident being mistreated by a caregiver. Though initially hesitant, I spoke up and reported the incident, vowing never to let such mistreatment go unnoticed again. This experience reinforced the importance of advocacy in healthcare and my commitment to ensuring dignity and respect for every patient. It also strengthened my ambition to become a doctor—a role where I can protect, empower, and heal. Beyond clinical experiences, I have been actively involved in community service, particularly as the president of Project Dot, a nonprofit organization I lead. Through this initiative, I've worked to address period poverty and gender inequality by distributing over 10,000 feminine hygiene kits to low-income women, transmen, and non-binary individuals. Securing $30,000 in grants and partnering with over 25 local charities has taught me the importance of addressing systemic healthcare disparities. Seeing recipients make difficult choices, such as buying food over hygiene products, has fueled my passion for advocating for marginalized communities. Healthcare is about more than treating illnesses; it is about building trust and fostering healthier communities. I chose this field because it allows me to integrate my passion for advocacy with my desire to provide direct care. Whether it's comforting a scared child, educating families about preventive care, or championing equitable policies, I see healthcare as a powerful tool for empowerment and transformation. In the future, I aim to tackle healthcare disparities by bridging gaps in access, especially for underserved communities. Growing up, I saw how geographical limitations and socioeconomic factors prevented families from receiving adequate care. I want to innovate solutions like mobile clinics and telemedicine programs to ensure quality care reaches every individual. I am studying public health at UCLA to improve healthcare systems. I aim to create a practice that combines clinical excellence with community outreach for accessible and equitable care. Healthcare embodies my values of empathy, advocacy, and service. I aspire to promote equity in healthcare, ensuring everyone feels heard and valued. This is my purpose, and I am dedicated to making a lasting impact.
Noah Jon Markstrom Foundation Scholarship
From an early age, I have been inclined towards helping others, and personal experiences have influenced my decision to pursue a career in pediatric medicine. Volunteering at Summerlin Hospital, specifically in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), has profoundly impacted me. Observing the vulnerability of newborns affected by Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS) highlighted the necessity for dedicated and empathetic medical professionals in pediatrics. Holding a newborn experiencing withdrawal symptoms due to prenatal exposure to substances reinforced my commitment to providing comfort and care, solidifying my aspiration to specialize in pediatric medicine. My initial volunteer work evolved into a deep-seated dedication to healthcare. During high school, my CNA certification and pharmacy technician license afforded me valuable patient experience. During clinical rotations at a nursing home, I witnessed a resident's cultural rights being overlooked. Advocating for her emphasized the significance of respecting diverse perspectives and ensuring every patient feels appreciated. This experience reinforced my belief that pediatric medicine encompasses more than treating illnesses; it involves fostering trust and creating a supportive environment for children and their families. Leading Project Dot, a nonprofit organization that supplies feminine hygiene products to low-income women, trans men, and nonbinary individuals, was another transformative experience. While addressing period poverty, this initiative also underscored the importance of advocacy and education. Many of the individuals we assist are young girls facing educational and health barriers due to limited access to essential items. Witnessing the effects of our work strengthened my resolve to ensure every child has the opportunity for healthy development. Pediatric medicine presents an ideal path to combine advocacy with direct patient care. The most compelling aspect of pediatric medicine for me is the ability to make a meaningful impact during an individual's formative years. Children possess resilience but are also vulnerable. As a pediatrician, I aim to provide stability and hope to families dealing with medical challenges. Whether it involves comforting a frightened child before a procedure or educating parents about preventive care, I view pediatric medicine as empowering families and fostering healthier communities. Growing up in Southern Nevada, I have seen how socioeconomic factors can restrict access to healthcare. Many families find it challenging to locate pediatric specialists or afford necessary treatments. Addressing healthcare disparities is integral to my mission. I am committed to advocating for equitable healthcare policies and expanding access to underserved communities to ensure every child receives the care required to flourish. I am enthusiastic about continuing my academic journey at UCLA with a major in public health. This program will enable me to tackle systemic healthcare issues while preparing for medical school. I aim to develop innovative solutions to enhance pediatric care delivery, particularly in rural and underserved regions. Ultimately, I aspire to combine clinical excellence with community outreach to ensure every child has the opportunity for a healthy, rewarding life. Pediatric medicine is not merely a profession; it is my calling to make a significant difference in the lives of children and their families.
Jeannine Schroeder Women in Public Service Memorial Scholarship
As a dedicated woman pursuing a Public Health degree at UCLA, a STEAM field fundamentally committed to enhancing community well-being, I am actively and passionately working to address the critical social issue of healthcare disparities. My commitment to this cause isn't merely academic; it stems from deeply personal, firsthand experiences witnessing the devastating impact of unequal access to care within marginalized communities. These experiences, ingrained in my understanding of social justice, have fueled an unwavering determination to create tangible, lasting change. My dedication extends far beyond the confines of academic pursuits. As the President of Project Dot, a nonprofit organization created to combat period poverty and gender inequality, I've tackled a significant social issue. Through strategic planning, persistent advocacy, and a deep understanding of community needs, I successfully secured over $20,000 in grants. This endeavor required me to overcome not only personal anxieties but also the pervasive societal stigmas surrounding menstruation, advocating before the Las Vegas City Council to ensure that thousands of individuals, particularly women and gender minorities, do not have to make the impossible choice between essentials and basic hygiene. This experience profoundly underscored the transformative power of community advocacy and the ability to effect real, measurable change through focused, grassroots efforts. My academic journey in Public Health at UCLA is inextricably linked to my profound desire to dismantle the systemic healthcare inequities that plague marginalized populations. Through rigorous coursework, I'm acquiring theoretical knowledge and developing practical skills in data analysis, policy interpretation, and designing evidence-based interventions. My nursing home internship served as a pivotal moment, further solidifying my commitment to advocacy within the healthcare sector. Witnessing the vulnerability of marginalized populations within this setting underscored the urgent necessity for compassionate, advocacy-driven medical professionals who are prepared to champion patient rights and dignity. My vision extends far beyond the traditional confines of clinical practice. I am mainly focused on addressing the often-overlooked access barriers, especially those related to transportation, which disproportionately affect individuals in rural and underserved areas. To combat this, I'm committed to developing and implementing innovative solutions, such as mobile clinics and accessible transportation services, to bring essential healthcare directly to those who need it most. Furthermore, I am deeply committed to preventative care and health education, empowering individuals with the knowledge and resources necessary to control their well-being and build healthier communities. Recognizing the critical and often neglected need to address mental health disparities, my volunteer work at a low-income mental health clinic has reinforced my dedication to providing integrated care that addresses both physical and psychological well-being. Looking towards the future, I aspire to contribute meaningfully to medical research, focusing specifically on the social determinants of health and developing evidence-based interventions to reduce healthcare disparities. My robust public health background and hands-on experience in nonprofit leadership and community volunteerism provide a strong foundation for this work. My unwavering engagement in community service, from leading Project Dot to volunteering at shelters and participating in community clean-up efforts, reflects my deep-seated belief in the power of collective action and the importance of giving back. These experiences have reinforced the vital importance of community and solidified my commitment to working towards a more equitable and just society for all. This scholarship represents not merely financial assistance, but an investment in my ability to further integrate my rigorous STEAM education with my unwavering passion for public service. It will empower me to amplify my impact, pursue my academic goals with greater focus, and dedicate my life to building a more just and equitable healthcare system, ultimately serving marginalized populations and advancing medical knowledge for the betterment of all.
Rodney James Pimentel Memorial Scholarship
As I've come to understand, one of the most significant values of education is the human connection formed along the way. I know I wouldn't be where I am now without the support of the people in my life. Whether it's a close family member, an educator, or an irreplaceable friend, I can name several individuals who have shaped me. For me, RJ was one of those people who provided unwavering encouragement and guidance throughout my educational journey. Imagine a situation where a close friend or loved one comes to me for advice on a significant life decision. Let me share an anecdote from a real-life experience to illustrate how I handle such situations. My friend Sarah, a talented artist, found herself at a crossroads. She had been accepted into a prestigious art school, her lifelong dream, but her family pressured her to pursue a more "practical" career, like business or technology. They feared she couldn't make a stable living as an artist and wanted her to prioritize financial security. My first step was to create a safe space for Sarah to express her feelings and concerns without judgment. I listened attentively, asking open-ended questions to understand her perspective fully. "Oh, how does this opportunity make you feel? What excites you most about art school? What are your biggest fears about pursuing this path?"I acknowledged her family's concerns, recognizing that their advice came from a place of love and a desire to protect her. Instead of offering direct solutions or telling Sarah what to do, I helped her explore her values and priorities. ""hat does ''uccess''mean to you, Sarah? Is it primarily financial security, or does it also include personal fulfillment, creative expression, and making a meaningful contribution to the world? I encouraged her to envision her ideal future and consider which path aligned most closely with that vision. We brainstormed ways to mitigate the risks of pursuing an artistic career, such as developing a business plan, seeking mentors, or exploring opportunities to combine creative talents with other skills. Throughout our conversation, I emphasized that the final decision rested with her. I aimed to empower her to make an informed decision aligned with her authentic self. This approach reflects the importance of human connection in navigating life's complexities. It acknowledges that significant decisions are rarely black and white and that external pressures can cloud our intuition. In my journey toward becoming a nurse anesthetist, I have faced the challenge of balancing demanding coursework with gaining practical experience and maintaining financial stability. The pre-public health major at UCLA is rigorous, requiring a strong foundation in biology, chemistry, and statistics. As my transcript reflects, I have consistently maintained a 4.0 GPA while taking a full course load. However, the intensity of academic work can be overwhelming, requiring countless hours of studying and dedication. To supplement my academic learning, I have sought opportunities to gain hands-on experience in healthcare settings. I obtained my CNA and Pharmacy Tech certifications, demonstrating my commitment to acquiring practical skills. I have also volunteered extensively at Summerlin Hospital, working in the NICU and at the front desk. However, balancing these commitments with the financial realities of college has been a significant challenge. As my resume indicates, I have held various jobs, including a cashier and engaging in online business ventures, to support myself and contribute to my family's income. This has required me to develop exceptional time-management skills and prioritize effectively. To help future students navigate these challenges in STEM, I offer the following recommendations. Building a strong support network is invaluable. Connecting with classmates, professors, mentors, and family members provides encouragement, guidance, and practical assistance. Prioritizing time management using planners, calendars, and to-do lists can help you stay organized and balance academic work, extracurricular activities, and personal responsibilities. Seeking practical experience through internships, research opportunities, or volunteer work in your field will enhance your skills and provide valuable networking opportunities. Managing financial stress by exploring financial aid options, scholarships, and part-time work opportunities can alleviate financial burdens. Practicing self-care is essential for maintaining your well-being. Getting enough sleep, eating nutritious meals, exercising regularly, and engaging in activities you enjoy are crucial. Embracing collaboration by developing teamwork and communication skills, valuing diverse perspectives, and contributing effectively to group projects is essential to success in STEM fields. Viewing setbacks as opportunities for growth and learning will prevent discouragement and help you persevere. Advocating for yourself by proactively seeking opportunities and resources is vital. Ultimately, pursuing a STEM education is challenging but incredibly rewarding. Students can overcome obstacles and achieve their full potential by fostering human connections, seeking support, and developing resilience.
WCEJ Thornton Foundation Low-Income Scholarship
Reflecting on my most significant achievement to date, I am drawn to my experience with Project Dot, a non-profit organization dedicated to combating period poverty by providing feminine hygiene products to homeless and low-income individuals. Founding and leading this initiative has been the most transformative experience of my life, teaching me invaluable lessons about perseverance, leadership, and the power of community advocacy. My journey with Project Dot began at 14, inspired by the lack of access to feminine hygiene products among low-income women and non-binary individuals in my community. Despite the daunting challenges ahead, I was determined to address this issue head-on. As I navigated the complexities of establishing a non-profit, I encountered numerous obstacles, from securing funding to rallying volunteers. Yet, driven by ambition and a deep-seated belief in the cause, I persevered. One of the most enlightening moments came when Carolyn Wheeler, the esteemed director of Project Dot, offered me the position of president. Her unwavering confidence in my ability to lead, despite my lack of experience, was both humbling and empowering. Carolyn's support was pivotal, igniting my passion for advocacy and reinforcing the importance of perseverance. Her mentorship taught me that authentic leadership is not about having all the answers but the courage to fight for what is right and the resilience to overcome setbacks. As president, I faced the harsh reality of period poverty in Southern Nevada, where low-income individuals are forced to choose between necessities and menstrual hygiene products. This situation was exacerbated by the government's decision to exclude pads and tampons from SNAP coverage, highlighting the deep-rooted gender inequality in our society. Driven by the urgency of this issue, I devoted myself to expanding Project Dot's reach, doubling the number of kits distributed to about 4,000 a year and securing connections with over 27 local charities. My efforts culminated in securing over $30,000 in grants, a testament to my perseverance and unwavering commitment to the cause. Yet, the most impactful moments were those spent interacting with the recipients of our kits, witnessing their gratitude and relief. These encounters underscored the profound impact of our work and reinforced my resolve to continue advocating for gender equality and eradicating period poverty. The experience taught me that perseverance is not just about enduring hardships but transforming them into opportunities for growth and change. It taught me the importance of community support, the power of advocacy, and the necessity of addressing systemic issues with empathy and determination. Most importantly, it taught me to lead with confidence and courage, even in the face of adversity. Looking to the future, I am committed to furthering my education and becoming a medical professional dedicated to serving marginalized communities. I envision a future where access to healthcare and education about period poverty is prioritized, where no individual is forced to choose between their health and their basic needs. I will continue to advocate for the redistribution of resources to address the poverty society's poverty challenges and others about the pressing issues that often go unnoticed. As I lead over 300 volunteers, secure grants, and advocate for social justice, I am reminded of the importance of perseverance and ambition. These values have driven me to make a tangible impact in my community and shaped my future vision. I am determined to create a society where every individual has access to the care and support they need, and where issues like period poverty are addressed with empathy and urgency. In conclusion, my journey with Project Dot has been a testament to the power of perseverance, ambition, and community advocacy. It has taught me invaluable leadership and resilience lessons, inspiring me to continue fighting for a more equitable and just society. Through my education and future endeavors, I will remain deeply engaged in my community, striving to enhance healthcare delivery and advocate for those who need it most. My experience has shown me that with determination and courage, we can drive meaningful change and create a brighter future for all.
Nikhil Desai Reinventing Healthcare Scholarship
The current healthcare system places an immense demand on healthcare workers, requiring them to perform rigorous hours while being expected to remain error-free. This is one of the most pressing issues within healthcare today. The critical nature of these roles demands an unparalleled level of skill, attention, and dedication. However, the environments healthcare professionals work in often necessitate extended shifts, irregular hours, and quick adaptability to fluctuating demands. Exhausted physicians, residents, and medical students cannot ensure the well-being of their patients, and they are often unable to contribute their best to the field of medicine under such conditions. The drive for excellence and the expectation of long hours create a dilemma—resulting in heightened risks of errors and burnout. This profession leaves no room for mistakes, as they could mean the difference between life and death. The intense pressure in these environments doesn't just affect individual workers, it has a ripple effect. Burnt-out students prone to mistakes inadvertently add stress to their mentors and supervising doctors, leading to a more strained work environment. This over-exhaustion doesn't end after medical school, either. Experienced doctors face similar risks, increasing the potential for mistakes. However, there’s often a power dynamic in which students feel timid about correcting doctors' errors, exacerbating the problem. This creates a revolving cycle of exhaustion and fear that is detrimental to both patient care and the mental health of healthcare workers. Numerous studies have documented the connection between overexhaustion and medical errors, some leading to devastating outcomes, including deaths. The question then becomes: when will this issue be addressed? To tackle this, we need to find a balance between delivering optimal patient care and safeguarding the well-being of healthcare professionals. The healthcare system must place a greater emphasis on the well-being of its physicians and students, recognizing that the journey to becoming a physician should not be detrimental to those tasked with bettering our communities. If I could implement one change, it would be to reduce the overworked hours healthcare professionals endure. More thorough schedules could be made to ensure that these individuals are getting enough sleep, but ultimately still have time to do things outside of the profession. Ensuring that there is an escape outside the profession will help reduce suicide rates and overall make it a more positive environment for everyone. With this change, I would also ensure that there is more advocacy for the rights of these physicians and students so this issue becomes universally solved. This would alleviate exhaustion, improve the quality of care, and ultimately create a more sustainable healthcare system where both patients and providers can thrive.
Future Leaders Scholarship
Standing shakily in front of the city council requesting money for such a stigmatized subject, I realized this was my last hope. Was this going to be the moment that I let down hundreds of Southern Nevada residents because of a problem with funding? As my nerves overwhelmed me, the pressure of realizing that without this grant, Project Dot, the non-profit I run that provides feminine hygiene products to women, transmen, and non-binary individuals, so many were going to suffer period poverty again. I had never spoken in front of such a big crowd, let alone with the stress of this being the last resort. A sense of vulnerability swept over me, but amidst the anxiety, a resilient spirit emerged. I voiced my strong, empowering voice to everyone crowded in the City Hall, and they also felt the importance of Project Dot. Not even the government could fix this issue in Nevada as coffee is deemed a necessity under SNAP, but pads and tampons are not. Knowing that I had been up against such a tedious fight, the pressure was intimidating. But, I learned something new that day– I put on a face. No one could feel my heart rapidly beating, that horrible nauseous feeling, my clammy palms, and that feeling of just wanting to give up. Masking my inner turmoil, I shifted my mindset, adopting an air of confidence. Speaking was not the only scary part because after I had failed a couple of times before in securing grants, I walked into City Council with that weight on my chest. There were so many people who did not care about these gender equity and period poverty issues. This was turning into Project Dot's last resort to continuing as a non-profit because I had been rejected for plenty of grants previously. All of this background knowledge, no one knew, except for me and my busy mind. It was all a mindset. But then came the shift in mindset—perseverance became my guiding principle. Their intrigued faces made me realize that this grant was going to be different, and it was. It was only different because of the way the message was delivered, it was the same thing as all the other times, but instead, I was a confident young woman voicing my truth to help others. From that point on, I realized that a show of confidence will take you further and grant you higher chances of success. This newfound confidence opened doors and I’ve secured $30k+ in grants for Project Dot. It reshaped my approach to various situations, propelling my success in Project Dot and community leadership. This lesson reverberated in my efforts, doubling the distribution of feminine hygiene kits and fostering connections with over 25 local charities. This lesson has reminded me that wherever I am if I am a confident leader, others will be compelled to listen. Having this initial experience of ignoring the stigmatized thoughts on subjects allowed me to create a community where people feel safe. With 400+ volunteers, Project Dot now ensures that 10,000+ individuals are not facing period poverty. The impact extends beyond statistics; it lies in the relief for low-income women, transmen, and non-binary individuals who no longer face the impossible choice between food and menstrual care. This newfound leadership will ensure that I advocate for marginalized communities with limited voices when I become a healthcare professional. I want to be the voice for those who feel like they have limited voices and do not have the healthcare that they deserve.
Strong Leaders of Tomorrow Scholarship
Leadership, to me, is about stepping into the unknown, confronting challenges head-on, and remaining unwavering in the face of adversity. My experience as the President of Project Dot has profoundly shaped my understanding of what it means to be a leader. It is not just about holding a title or being in charge; it’s about taking responsibility, especially when the stakes are high, and using one’s voice to bring about meaningful change. Standing in front of the city council, seeking funding for a cause as stigmatized as period poverty, was one of the most daunting moments of my life. The weight of responsibility was heavy—knowing that without the grant, Project Dot would struggle to continue its mission. But it was in that moment of vulnerability that I discovered the resilience within me, a resilience that defines true leadership. As I stood shakily in front of the city council, I realized that this was my last hope, not just for the organization, but for the thousands of individuals who relied on our services. The thought of letting down thousands of Southern Nevada residents motivated me to push through my fears. I knew I had to transform my nervous energy into something productive. Leadership, I learned, often involves masking one’s inner turmoil to project confidence, even when every fiber of your being wants to retreat. When I finally spoke, I did so with a newfound confidence. It wasn’t that the content of my message had changed, but my delivery was different. I spoke with passion and conviction, making it clear that this grant was not just about money—it was about addressing a fundamental issue of gender equity and human dignity. I learned that confidence can be contagious; it compels others to listen and consider perspectives they might have previously dismissed. The success of that moment went beyond securing the grant. It was a pivotal experience that reshaped my approach to leadership. Since then, I’ve secured over $30,000 in grants, significantly expanding Project Dot’s reach. We’ve doubled the distribution of feminine hygiene kits and forged partnerships with over 25 local charities. This success wasn’t just due to better strategies or more resources, but a shift in mindset. I realized leadership is about perseverance, believing in your cause even when others do not, and pushing forward despite setbacks. Moreover, leadership is about creating a community where people feel safe and supported. With over 400 volunteers, Project Dot now ensures that more than 10,000 individuals are not facing period poverty. The impact extends beyond mere numbers; it’s about the relief and dignity restored to low-income women, transmen, and non-binary individuals who no longer have to choose between food and menstrual care. In essence, what makes me a leader is not just my ability to manage a team or secure funding. It’s my commitment to advocating for marginalized communities, my resilience in the face of adversity, and my willingness to use my voice to drive change. Leadership is about taking risks, standing up for what you believe in, and inspiring others to join you in making a difference. Through Project Dot, I’ve learned that when you lead with confidence and compassion, you can transform challenges into opportunities for growth and impact.
Joy Of Life Inspire’s AAA Scholarship
Standing shakily in front of the city council, I realized it was my last hope. The pressure of knowing that without securing this grant, Project Dot—the non-profit I run to provide feminine hygiene products to women, transmen, and non-binary individuals—would shut down. Hundreds of Southern Nevada residents depended on our services, and the thought of letting them down because of funding issues weighed heavily on me. As the President of Project Dot, I knew the responsibility rested on my shoulders. Project Dot has always been more than just a non-profit to me; it represents my commitment to fighting deep-seated issues of gender inequality and equity. Period poverty is a pervasive problem, and in Nevada, the situation is dire. While coffee is considered a necessity under SNAP, basic menstrual products like pads and tampons are not. This disparity fueled my passion for the cause, but also made the challenge of securing funding all the more daunting. As I stood in front of the council, I felt a wave of vulnerability. Public speaking had never been my forte, especially not in front of such a large and potentially unsympathetic audience. The fear of failure was palpable—this was our last resort, and I had already faced rejection in previous grant applications. My heart raced, my palms were clammy, and nausea churned in my stomach. But in that moment of uncertainty, something within me shifted. I realized that I had nothing to lose by giving it my all. I masked my inner turmoil with a confident demeanor, adopting a mindset of perseverance and determination. As I began to speak, I found my voice—a voice full of passion and purpose. I spoke eloquently and with a depth of emotion that resonated with the audience. I addressed the social stigmas surrounding menstrual care, the harsh realities of period poverty, and the impact that our organization had on the community. Slowly, I saw the faces of the council members change; their initial indifference gave way to intrigue and understanding. They began to see the significance of what we were trying to achieve. That day, I secured the grant. It was a turning point not just for Project Dot, but for me personally. The experience taught me the power of confidence and resilience. It reinforced the importance of Agape love—the selfless, unconditional love for others. Through my work with Project Dot, I strive to embody this concept by advocating for those who are often overlooked or marginalized. Since that pivotal moment, I've secured $30,000+ in grants for Project Dot. This funding has allowed us to double our distribution of feminine hygiene kits and expand our partnerships with over 25 local charities. Today, Project Dot has a network of over 400 volunteers and serves more than 10,000 individuals, ensuring that they no longer face the impossible choice between food and menstrual care. The impact of our work extends beyond numbers—it lies in the relief and dignity restored to low-income women, transmen, and non-binary individuals who benefit from our services. Through Project Dot, I have created a community where people feel safe, supported, and empowered. This experience has not only shaped my approach to leadership but has also deepened my commitment to giving back to my community with unwavering dedication. In conclusion, the challenge I faced before the city council was a defining moment in my journey. It taught me the importance of confidence, perseverance, and Agape love in the face of adversity. Through Project Dot, I am driven by a passion to serve and uplift my community, ensuring that no one has to endure the indignity of period poverty.
Schmid Memorial Scholarship
I'm motivated and committed to everything that I partake in. Not only have I maintained a perfect 4.0 GPA , but I have also done much more besides school. Schooling has been an accessory to my immense success. I have over 800+ hours of philanthropic work and within those hours, I run my own non-profit and am a weekly volunteer at the Summerlin Hospital at the NICU and front desk. I've secured $30k+ in grants for Project Dot so I could lessen period poverty and gender inequalities that so many low-income women, transmen, and non-binary individuals are encountering. I've led a group of 500+ volunteers to help make feminine hygiene kits over the years to help lessen period poverty and help raise awareness about this issue in my Southern Nevada community. I'm a lead communicator with 25+ local charities and since becoming President, I've doubled the number of kits distributed to 4,000+. I have genuinely made a change in my community by increasing access to such a demanding necessity. I have a drive that not many people can withhold or even achieve. I have dedication and determination that many yearn to achieve: as I continue to run my non-profit, rack up hours of philanthropic work, work 25+ hours a week, and be a full-time student. Graduating with my CNA and pharmacy tech license has given me real-world insight into what health care entails compared to those who have only gotten textbook experience. There are too many individuals being taken advantage of in the healthcare field, and I vow to represent those with limited voices. There are very few jobs in this world that help others heal. I want to be the one who looks a complete stranger in the eyes and gives them hope that they can get back to doing what they love. I'm looking forward specifically to my future in helping those in lower-income areas facing geographical limitations when trying to obtain medical care. I want to be a comforting stranger who can guide them through such a scary and uncertain time. I will be the gentle voice in such a horrifying time. I have now seriously experienced the fact that you must be in medicine for all of the aspects, not just the good days. I know what I'm driven to do, and being so well-rounded has powered that drive. Instead of being naive and scared of the unknown, I've gone out and figured out what that unknown was, discovering my future as an MD.  This scholarship would mean so much to me because my father lost his job this year, which he had held for 20+ years. With the support of my community, I can continue my path to becoming a successful medical professional so I can give back that same support to those who helped me during this rough time. Being granted this scholarship would help relieve some of the financial stresses that have made the future of my education feel so out of reach.
Christina Taylese Singh Memorial Scholarship
Watching a resident being rolled around in her own feces while being abused was an experience that I would have never expected as I was ready to complete my clinical hours. I'd already learned so much about the medical field as I went into my senior year of high school. I had completed 4 years of public health courses and I was finally ready to obtain my CNA license. This year we had to complete our clinical hours at the nursing home for our CNA license. Knowing I was so passionate about this field, I was so excited to perform my newly learned skills for the residents in the nursing home. As I stood in the nursing home, for the second time, I encountered a resident being rolled around in her feces. She was unable to move, speak, or even lift her eyebrow the slightest bit; I was in shambles. I looked at my classmate as we watched a CNA roughly bang the resident's head into the bed after ripping the pillow away. Watching this happen caused a quick sense of unsureness about my future. I had never seen something like this before and was I ready for a lifetime of this during my medical career? This was nothing compared to the hundreds of hours of volunteering I had experienced at the Summerlin Hospital NICU, ER, front desk, or even outpatient admitting. This experience suddenly put a quick halt on my idea of my future degree aspirations of becoming an MD. However, there was a sudden fire that sparked within me. After my initial hesitation, I spoke up, took over, and vowed to myself that as long as I had the power, I would never allow this to happen again. My leadership ability and courage saved future residents from ever being abused by this CNA again. Without my presence, this incident would have never been reported, and other residents could have continued facing the same abuse. This experience solidified my ambitions to become a medical professional. Knowing that I have real-world experience and an understanding of the difficulties that go into this profession, I am confident that I will succeed. Many other individuals who have never seen the hardships that this profession comes with may be in for a shock making them uncertain about their future. My sudden uncertainty quickly turned into an indefinite goal of becoming a doctor. This experience inspired me to pursue my passion for speaking up for vulnerable populations. There are too many individuals being taken advantage of in the healthcare field and I vow to represent those with limited voices. There are very few jobs in this world that help others heal. I want to be the one who looks a complete stranger in the eyes and gives them hope that they can get back to doing what they love. I am looking forward specifically to my future in helping those in lower-income areas facing geographical limitations when trying to obtain medical care. I want to be a comforting stranger who can guide them through such a scary and uncertain time. I will be the gentle voice in such a horrifying time. I have now seriously experienced the fact that you must be in medicine for all of the aspects, not just the good days. I know what I'm driven to do, and being so well-rounded has powered that drive. Instead of being naive and scared of the unknown, I've gone out and figured out what that unknown was, discovering my future as an MD.
Aaryn Railyn King Foundation Scholarship
Watching a resident being rolled around in her own feces while being abused was an experience that I would have never expected as I was ready to complete my clinical hours. I'd already learned so much about the medical field as I went into my senior year of high school. I had completed 4 years of public health courses and I was finally ready to obtain my CNA license. This year we had to complete our clinical hours at the nursing home for our CNA license. Knowing I was so passionate about this field, I was so excited to perform my newly learned skills for the residents in the nursing home. As I stood in the nursing home, for the second time, I encountered a resident being rolled around in her feces. She was unable to move, speak, or even lift her eyebrow the slightest bit; I was in shambles. I looked at my classmate as we watched a CNA roughly bang the resident's head into the bed after ripping the pillow away. Watching this happen caused a quick sense of unsureness about my future. I had never seen something like this before and was I ready for a lifetime of this during my medical career? This was nothing compared to the hundreds of hours of volunteering I had experienced at the Summerlin Hospital NICU, ER, front desk, or even outpatient admitting. This experience suddenly put a quick halt on my idea of my future degree aspirations of becoming an MD. However, there was a sudden fire that sparked within me. After my initial hesitation, I spoke up, took over, and vowed to myself that as long as I had the power, I would never allow this to happen again. My leadership ability and courage saved future residents from ever being abused by this CNA again. Without my presence, this incident would have never been reported, and other residents could have continued facing the same abuse. This experience solidified my ambitions to become a medical professional. Knowing that I have real-world experience and an understanding of the difficulties that go into this profession, I am confident that I will succeed. Many other individuals who have never seen the hardships that this profession comes with may be in for a shock making them uncertain about their future. My sudden uncertainty quickly turned into an indefinite goal of becoming a doctor. This experience inspired me to pursue my passion for speaking up for vulnerable populations. There are too many individuals being taken advantage of in the healthcare field and I vow to represent those with limited voices. There are very few jobs in this world that help others heal. I want to be the one who looks a complete stranger in the eyes and gives them hope that they can get back to doing what they love. I am looking forward specifically to my future in helping those in lower-income areas facing geographical limitations when trying to obtain medical care. I want to be a comforting stranger who can guide them through such a scary and uncertain time. I will be the gentle voice in such a horrifying time. I have now seriously experienced the fact that you must be in medicine for all of the aspects, not just the good days. I know what I'm driven to do, and being so well-rounded has powered that drive. Instead of being naive and scared of the unknown, I've gone out and figured out what that unknown was, discovering my future as an MD.
Leave A Legacy Always Scholarship
I am motivated and committed to everything that I partake in. Not only have I maintained a perfect 4.0 GPA, but I have also done much more besides school. Schooling has been an accessory to my immense success. I have over 800+ hours of philanthropic work and within those hours, I run my own non-profit and am a weekly volunteer at the Summerlin Hospital at the NICU and front desk. I have secured $30k+ in grants for Project Dot so I could lessen period poverty and gender inequalities that so many low-income women, transmen, and non-binary individuals are encountering. I have led a group of 500+ volunteers to help make feminine hygiene kits over the years to help lessen period poverty and help raise awareness about this issue in my Southern Nevada community. I am a lead communicator with 25+ local charities and since becoming President, I have doubled the number of kits distributed to 4,000+. I have genuinely made a change in my community by increasing access to such a demanding necessity. Oftentimes I see a jam-packed schedule waking up at 4:45 a.m. and going to bed at 11 p.m., but I have definitely proved to myself that I crave a constantly busy schedule. Regardless of how tired I get, I ensure my academic life, family life, and community engagement are each cultivated with quality, not merely quantity. I have a drive that not many people can withhold or even achieve. I have dedication and determination that many yearn to achieve: as I continue to run my non-profit, rack up hours of philanthropic work, work 25+ hours a week, and be a full-time student. I have committed to high-level intellectual and emotional pursuits in service of others because I am a leader in a sea of followers. I am genuinely committed to my future and have a clear path to where I want to go. In every activity that I partake in, I have dedication too. I am absolutely certain that I want to continue my educational journey. Watching a resident being rolled around in her own feces while being abused was an experience that I would have never expected as I was ready to complete my clinical hours. I'd already learned so much about the medical field as I went into my senior year of high school. I had completed 4 years of public health courses and I was finally ready to obtain my CNA license. This year we had to complete our clinical hours at the nursing home for our CNA license. Knowing I was so passionate about this field, I was so excited to perform my newly learned skills for the residents in the nursing home. As I stood in the nursing home, for the second time, I encountered a resident being rolled around in her feces. She was unable to move, speak, or even lift her eyebrow the slightest bit; I was in shambles. I looked at my classmate as we watched a CNA roughly bang the resident's head into the bed after ripping the pillow away. Watching this happen caused a quick sense of unsureness about my future. I had never seen something like this before and was I ready for a lifetime of this during my medical career? This was nothing compared to the hundreds of hours of volunteering I had experienced at the Summerlin Hospital NICU, ER, front desk, or even outpatient admitting. This experience suddenly put a quick halt on my idea of my future degree aspirations of becoming an MD. However, there was a sudden fire that sparked within me. After my initial hesitation, I spoke up, took over, and vowed to myself that as long as I had the power, I would never allow this to happen again. My leadership ability and courage saved future residents from ever being abused by this CNA again. I realized that without my presence, this incident would have never been reported, and other residents could have continued facing the same abuse. This experience I encountered solidified my ambitions to become a medical professional. I was able to overcome this unsureness about my future as an MD. Knowing that I have real-world experience and an understanding of the difficulties that go into this profession, I am confident that I will succeed. Many other individuals who have never seen the hardships that this profession comes with may be in for a shock making them uncertain about their future. Experiencing clinical experience in the nursing home was definitely an experience that I had to grow from. My sudden uncertainty quickly turned into an indefinite goal of becoming a doctor. Having the ability to overcome this challenge of seeing the rougher parts of medicine is something that will make me a better provider. Especially because I am interested in being a medical advocate in marginalized communities. This experience inspired me to pursue my passion for speaking up for vulnerable populations. There are too many individuals being taken advantage of in the healthcare field and I vow to represent those with limited voices. There are very few jobs in this world that help others heal. I want to be the one that looks a complete stranger in the eyes and give them hope that they can get back to doing what they love. I am looking forward specifically to my future in helping those in lower-income areas facing geographical limitations when trying to obtain medical care. I want to be a comforting stranger that can guide them through such a scary and uncertain time. I will be the gentle voice in such a horrifying time. I have now seriously experienced the fact that you must be in medicine for all of the aspects, not just the good days. I know what I'm driven to do, and being so well-rounded has powered that drive. Instead of being naive and scared of the unknown, I've gone out and figured out what that unknown was, discovering my future as an MD.
John Young 'Pursue Your Passion' Scholarship
I'd already learned so much about the medical field as I went into my senior year of high school. I had completed 4 years of public health courses and I was finally ready to obtain my CNA license. This year we had to complete our clinical hours at the nursing home for our CNA license. Knowing I was so passionate about this field, I was so excited to perform my newly learned skills for the residents in the nursing home. As I stood in the nursing home, for the second time, I encountered a resident being rolled around in her feces. She was unable to move, speak, or even lift her eyebrow the slightest bit; I was in shambles. I looked at my classmate as we watched a CNA roughly bang the resident's head into the bed after ripping the pillow away. Watching this happen caused a quick sense of unsureness about my future. I had never seen something like this before and was I ready for a lifetime of this during my medical career? This experience suddenly put a quick halt on my idea of my future degree aspirations of becoming an MD. However, I was able to overcome this unsureness about my future. After my initial hesitation, I spoke up, took over, and vowed to myself that as long as I had the power, I would never allow this to happen again. My leadership ability and courage saved future residents from ever being abused by this CNA again. I realized that without my presence, this incident would have never been reported, and other residents could have continued facing the same abuse. This experience I encountered solidified my ambitions to become a medical professional. Knowing that I have real-world experience and an understanding of the difficulties that go into this profession, I am confident that I will succeed. Many other individuals who have never seen the hardships that this profession comes with may be in for a shock making them uncertain about their future. Having the ability to overcome this challenge of seeing the rougher parts of medicine is something that will make me a better provider. Especially because I am interested in being a medical advocate in marginalized communities. This experience inspired me to pursue my passion for speaking up for vulnerable populations. There are too many individuals being taken advantage of in the healthcare field and I vow to represent those with limited voices. I am looking forward specifically to my future in helping those in lower-income areas facing geographical limitations when trying to obtain medical care. Instead of being naive and scared of the unknown, I've gone out and figured out what that unknown was, discovering my future as an MD.
Balancing Act Medical Student Scholarship
Watching a resident being rolled around in her own feces while being abused was an experience that I would have never expected as I was ready to complete my clinical hours. I'd already learned so much about the medical field as I went into my senior year of high school. I had completed 4 years of public health courses and I was finally ready to obtain my CNA license. This year we had to complete our clinical hours at the nursing home for our CNA license. Knowing I was so passionate about this field, I was so excited to perform my newly learned skills for the residents in the nursing home. As I stood in the nursing home, for the second time, I encountered a resident being rolled around in her feces. She was unable to move, speak, or even lift her eyebrow the slightest bit; I was in shambles. I looked at my classmate as we watched a CNA roughly bang the resident's head into the bed after ripping the pillow away. Watching this happen caused a quick sense of unsureness about my future. I had never seen something like this before and was I ready for a lifetime of this during my medical career? This was nothing compared to the hundreds of hours of volunteering I had experienced at the Summerlin Hospital NICU, ER, front desk, or even outpatient admitting. This experience suddenly put a quick halt on my idea of my future degree aspirations of becoming an MD. However, there was a sudden fire that sparked within me. After my initial hesitation, I spoke up, took over, and vowed to myself that as long as I had the power, I would never allow this to happen again. My leadership ability and courage saved future residents from ever being abused by this CNA again. I realized that without my presence, this incident would have never been reported, and other residents could have continued facing the same abuse. This experience I encountered solidified my ambitions to become a medical professional. I was able to overcome this unsureness about my future as an MD. Knowing that I have real-world experience and an understanding of the difficulties that go into this profession, I am confident that I will succeed. Many other individuals who have never seen the hardships that this profession comes with may be in for a shock making them uncertain about their future. Experiencing clinical experience in the nursing home was definitely an experience that I had to grow from. My sudden uncertainty quickly turned into an indefinite goal of becoming a doctor. Having the ability to overcome this challenge of seeing the rougher parts of medicine is something that will make me a better provider. Especially because I am interested in being a medical advocate in marginalized communities. This experience inspired me to pursue my passion for speaking up for vulnerable populations. There are too many individuals being taken advantage of in the healthcare field and I vow to represent those with limited voices. I am looking forward specifically to my future in helping those in lower-income areas facing geographical limitations when trying to obtain medical care. I have now seriously experienced the fact that you must be in medicine for all of the aspects, not just the good days. I know what I'm driven to do, and being so well-rounded has powered that drive. Instead of being naive and scared of the unknown, I've gone out and figured out what that unknown was, discovering my future as an MD.
Manny and Sylvia Weiner Medical Scholarship
Watching a resident being rolled around in her own feces while being abused was an experience that I would have never expected as I was ready to complete my clinical hours. I'd already learned so much about the medical field as I went into my senior year of high school. I had completed 4 years of public health courses and I was finally ready to obtain my CNA license. This year we had to complete our clinical hours at the nursing home for our CNA license. Knowing I was so passionate about this field, I was so excited to perform my newly learned skills for the residents in the nursing home. As I stood in the nursing home, for the second time, I encountered a resident being rolled around in her feces. She was unable to move, speak, or even lift her eyebrow the slightest bit; I was in shambles. I looked at my classmate as we watched a CNA roughly bang the resident's head into the bed after ripping the pillow away. Watching this happen caused a quick sense of unsureness about my future. I had never seen something like this before and was I ready for a lifetime of this during my medical career? This was nothing compared to the hundreds of hours of volunteering I had experienced at the Summerlin Hospital NICU, ER, front desk, or even outpatient admitting. This experience suddenly put a quick halt on my idea of my future degree aspirations of becoming an MD. However, there was a sudden fire that sparked within me. After my initial hesitation, I spoke up, took over, and vowed to myself that as long as I had the power, I would never allow this to happen again. My leadership ability and courage saved future residents from ever being abused by this CNA again. I realized that without my presence, this incident would have never been reported, and other residents could have continued facing the same abuse. This experience I encountered solidified my ambitions to become a medical professional. I was able to overcome this unsureness about my future as an MD. Knowing that I have real-world experience and an understanding of the difficulties that go into this profession, I am confident that I will succeed. Many other individuals who have never seen the hardships that this profession comes with may be in for a shock making them uncertain about their future. Experiencing clinical experience in the nursing home was definitely an experience that I had to grow from. My sudden uncertainty quickly turned into an indefinite goal of becoming a doctor. Having the ability to overcome this challenge of seeing the rougher parts of medicine is something that will make me a better provider. Especially because I am interested in being a medical advocate in marginalized communities. This experience inspired me to pursue my passion for speaking up for vulnerable populations. There are too many individuals being taken advantage of in the healthcare field and I vow to represent those with limited voices. I am looking forward specifically to my future in helping those in lower-income areas facing geographical limitations when trying to obtain medical care. I have now seriously experienced the fact that you must be in medicine for all of the aspects, not just the good days. I know what I'm driven to do, and being so well-rounded has powered that drive. Instead of being naive and scared of the unknown, I've gone out and figured out what that unknown was, discovering my future as an MD.
Veerakasturi and Venkateswarlu Ganapaneni Memorial Scholarship
I've always been a helper. Not for the label or award, but I'm intrinsically motivated to partake in volunteering, charity, and making the community a finer place. Through all of this, I forgot that it's okay to ask for help for myself. I'd gotten carried away in the conviction that I had to do everything myself. After my father lost his job last year, which he had held for over 20 years, the dynamics of our family spending were in complete shambles. Being a full-time student, an active philanthropist, and a daughter, this sudden loss had me trying to help piece together what still appears to be a puzzle that had missing pieces. Wanting to be a doctor entails the next 12 years of my life being in education and coming out with debt. My typical 10-hour work week turned into a hefty 20-30 hour work week while still keeping my same jam-packed schedule. However, with my ambitious goals, I know I will accomplish everything I have set forth. I have been so very grateful for the support of my journey, especially after volunteering 1000+ hours in the past couple of years I finally saw my community had my back. Scholarships will help relieve some of the financial burdens so I can power my academic ability to become a healthcare provider and help those living in marginalized communities. Lessening some of this financial burden will drive my motivation by proving the support my community is giving me. As I continue to run my own non-profit, my businesses, and withhold my 4.0 GPA I know I will make a difference in the medical field. Being granted any of these scholarships would help relieve some of the financial stresses that have made the future of my education feel so out of reach. In my pursuit of a public health degree at UCLA, I'm driven by the potential to make a tangible difference in countless lives. California's staggering homeless population ranks highest nationwide, motivating me to address healthcare needs in marginalized communities. Access to quality healthcare is a fundamental right, and as I progress toward becoming a physician, I aspire to provide people with the assurance of their well-being. Among society's most pressing challenges is healthcare disparity, a problem that continues to worsen. Globally, and even within the US, unequal access to essential healthcare persists, with roughly half the world lacking adequate services, as per WHO. How are we in the 21st century and individuals still don't have access to adequate healthcare? My focus is on mitigating geographic barriers in healthcare. The shortage of physicians in rural areas exacerbates this issue, necessitating improved transportation options for those living far from medical facilities. I envision establishing a network of both physicians and transportation services to ensure healthcare accessibility in remote regions. Driven by a steadfast commitment to effect lasting change, I am to pursue my medical career. I'm compelled to lead initiatives and advocate for action in addressing healthcare disparities. Through my ongoing studies, I foresee a future where I play a pivotal role in reshaping the healthcare landscape for underserved communities.
Ratan Lal Mundada Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship would mean so much to me because my father lost his job this year, which he had held for over 20 years. The dynamics of our family spending were in complete shambles. The foreseeable future of them helping me pay for college had turned into me helping contribute to bills. My father's sudden job loss was an immense damper on my prospective plans because my father is the only source of income for my entire family. Being a full-time honor student, an active philanthropist, and a daughter, this sudden loss had me trying to help piece together what still appears to be a puzzle that had missing pieces. I went from working 10 hours a week to 20-30 hours a week. I continue working as hard as possible to fit working hours into my already-packed schedule, hoping I can save enough money for college. I am determined I will accomplish my ambitious goal of becoming an anesthesiologist, but the occupation entails another 12 years of costly higher education. These upcoming years of my life will be an enormous financial investment, but I am confident it will be worth it. With the support of my community, I can continue my path to becoming a successful medical professional so I can give back that same support to those who helped me during this rough time. Being granted this scholarship would help relieve some of the financial stresses that have made the future of my education feel so out of reach. In my pursuit of a public health degree at UCLA, I'm driven by the potential to make a tangible difference in countless lives. California's staggering homeless population ranks highest nationwide, motivating me to address healthcare needs in marginalized communities. Access to quality healthcare is a fundamental right, and as I progress toward becoming a physician, I aspire to provide people with the assurance of their well-being. Among society's most pressing challenges is healthcare disparity, a problem that continues to worsen. Globally, and even within the US, unequal access to essential healthcare persists, with roughly half the world lacking adequate services, as per WHO. How are we in the 21st century and individuals still don't have access to adequate healthcare? My focus is on mitigating geographic barriers in healthcare. The shortage of physicians in rural areas exacerbates this issue, necessitating improved transportation options for those living far from medical facilities. I envision establishing a network of both physicians and transportation services to ensure healthcare accessibility in remote regions. Driven by a steadfast commitment to effect lasting change, I am to pursue my medical career. I'm compelled to lead initiatives and advocate for action in addressing healthcare disparities. Through my ongoing studies, I foresee a future where I play a pivotal role in reshaping the healthcare landscape for underserved communities.
Deborah Stevens Pediatric Nursing Scholarship
My unwavering ambition is to become a pediatric nurse. This path stems from a deeply held belief in the transformative power of compassionate care during a child's most vulnerable moments. I've always felt a strong connection to children, drawn to their resilience, honesty, and unique way of seeing the world. My commitment is multifaceted; I maintain a 4.0 GPA despite a rigorous schedule filled with extracurriculars and a passion for volunteering. I'm passionate about ensuring every child, regardless of background, has access to high-quality healthcare. This conviction led me to found Project Dot, a non-profit combating period poverty and advocating for marginalized young people, especially women, transmen, and non-binary individuals. My dedication to healthcare extends into direct patient care. I volunteer weekly in the hospital NICU or ER, building invaluable relationships with young patients and their families while gaining insights into the complexities of pediatric medicine. Seeking even deeper preparation, I earned my CNA and pharmacy tech licenses. This demonstrates my readiness to take on hands-on patient care responsibilities and shows my initiative in expanding my healthcare knowledge. These experiences, specifically my work with Project Dot and my time in the hospital, have illuminated the immense challenges and the profound rewards of working with children. Witnessing the impact of systemic barriers on young patients and their families has fueled my determination to become a fierce advocate for healthcare equity. I'm motivated by the opportunity to not only provide medical care but also to act as a source of comfort, guidance, and empowerment during times of vulnerability. My experiences have cemented my resolve to pursue a long-term career in nursing. While this path requires a significant financial investment, I am determined to make it happen. A recent, unforeseen challenge has tested this resolve. My father, our family's sole income source, unexpectedly lost his long-held job. Refusing to let this derail my goals, I now work substantial hours to help support my family without sacrificing my academic pursuits or volunteer commitments. This obstacle has only strengthened my determination to work in a field I truly believe in. I'm a compassionate, service-driven individual with proven academic achievement and hands-on experience. My commitment to advocacy and equitable care aligns perfectly with the core values of the nursing profession. This scholarship would be a vital investment in my ability to achieve my goals, overcome challenges, and become a dedicated pediatric nurse. With community support, I can continue this journey, champion the well-being of young patients and their families, and create lasting change within the healthcare system.
Kayla Nicole Monk Memorial Scholarship
My journey toward a career in healthcare took an unexpected turn during my senior year of high school. With four years of public health courses and an eagerness to become a CNA, I embarked on clinical rotations at a nursing home. The harsh reality shattered my initial idealism. Witnessing a resident's mistreatment sparked a fire within me – not a fear of the field but a resolute determination to change it. The incident wasn't a deterrent; it was a catalyst. Instead of succumbing to disillusionment, I stepped in, advocating for the resident and reporting the abuse. This experience revealed a crucial gap in the system – a lack of technological safeguards. Witnessing patients' vulnerability firsthand pushed me towards a new dream: leveraging technology to prevent abuse and empower vulnerable populations within the healthcare system. This shift in focus led me to a path in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEAM). Now, set to pursue a degree in Information Technology at UCLA, I aim to develop solutions that protect patients and promote transparency within healthcare institutions. I envision implementing real-time tracking systems and digital reporting tools that empower patients and staff to identify and address potential issues. My passion for advocacy extends beyond technology. I established Project Dot, a non-profit tackling period poverty in my community. Leading a network of over 500 volunteers, I've secured grants, organized kit-building events, and facilitated collaborations with 25+ local charities. Through Project Dot, I've distributed over 4,000 hygiene kits, raising awareness about a critical issue impacting marginalized individuals. Leading Project Dot honed my leadership skills – organizing large-scale projects, securing funding, and fostering collaboration. These experiences and my perfect 4.0 GPA demonstrate my work ethic and dedication. Furthermore, my volunteer work at the NICU and front desk at Summerlin Hospital provided invaluable exposure to the healthcare environment, solidifying my commitment to this field. The financial burden of juggling school, community involvement, and a demanding schedule necessitates self-reliance. Waking up at 4:45 AM and working late nights are testaments to my unwavering commitment. I thrive in a fast-paced environment, juggling responsibilities with meticulous attention to detail. This scholarship will be a game-changer. It will alleviate financial pressures, allowing me to fully dedicate myself to academics and pursue research opportunities within healthcare technology. With reduced financial constraints, I can volunteer at relevant tech companies, gaining practical experience vital for success. My journey from aspiring nurse to advocate for healthcare technology is one of resilience and adaptation. The experience at the nursing home ignited a passion for protecting vulnerable patients and empowering them through technology. This scholarship will alleviate financial burdens and empower me to turn that passion into action. It's more than a path to a career – it's an opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of countless patients.
Redefining Victory Scholarship
I am motivated and committed to everything that I partake in. Not only have I maintained a perfect 4.0 GPA, but I have also done much more besides school. Schooling has been an accessory to my immense success. I have over 800+ hours of philanthropic work and within those hours, I run my own non-profit and am a weekly volunteer at the Summerlin Hospital at the NICU and front desk. I have secured $30k+ in grants for Project Dot so I could lessen period poverty and gender inequalities that so many low-income women, transmen, and non-binary individuals are encountering. I have led a group of 500+ volunteers to help make feminine hygiene kits over the years to help lessen period poverty and help raise awareness about this issue in my Southern Nevada community. I am a lead communicator with 25+ local charities and since becoming President, I have doubled the number of kits distributed to 4,000+. I have genuinely made a change in my community by increasing access to such a demanding necessity. Organizing kit builds and making orders for supplies costing thousands of dollars has shown me the importance of planning while being a leader. While running my non-profit organization, all my other philanthropic work, and being a full-time student, I also work 25+ hours a week. My ability to be so involved in my community wouldn't be possible without working so many hours to be able to afford it. Oftentimes I see a jam-packed schedule waking up at 4:45 a.m. and going to bed at 11 p.m., but I have definitely proved to myself that I crave a constantly busy schedule. Regardless of how tired I get, I ensure my academic life, family life, and community engagement are each cultivated with quality, not merely quantity. I have a drive that not many people can withhold or even achieve. I have dedication and determination that many yearn to achieve: as I continue to run my non-profit, rack up hours of philanthropic work, work 25+ hours a week, and be a full-time student. I have committed to high-level intellectual and emotional pursuits in service of others because I am a leader in a sea of followers. I am genuinely committed to my future and have a clear path to where I want to go. In every activity that I partake in, I have dedication too. I am absolutely certain that I want to continue my educational journey. After completing the past four years of high school and taking health sciences for nursing, I am positive that I want to have a career in the healthcare field. Having so much background knowledge in healthcare has driven me to spend the rest of my life caring for others and having a career that I love. Graduating with my CNA and pharmacy tech license has given me real-world insight into what health care entails compared to those who have only gotten textbook experience. Real-world experiences and patients have changed my way of thinking about the healthcare field and made me realize that it requires strong, empathic individuals to represent such a vulnerable population. Having to go to nursing facilities for my CNA license really highlights the importance of that patient-provider relationship which takes a lot of empathy! Knowing that I have real-world experience and an understanding of the difficulties that go into this profession, I am confident that I will succeed. Many other individuals who have never seen the hardships that this profession comes with may be in for a shock making them uncertain about their future. Instead of being naive and scared of the unknown, I have gone out and figured out what that unknown was, discovering my future. My future has continued at UCLA as a public health major and minor and entrepreneurship. Success for me is having something to do all the time and staying busy with things that I enjoy doing. Holding the occupation of a doctor ensures that I will have the lifestyle that I have been looking for. This scholarship opportunity is imperative for me because the next 10-12 years of my higher education will be extremely costly and instead of exercising every effort to try and cover loans, this scholarship would help damper that burden. With some of that burden relieved I can go out and serve my community through more philanthropy work and hopefully travel to marginalized communities to provide medical care! Being so positive about wanting to attend undergraduate school and then graduate school makes me a perfect recipient of this scholarship.
Jeannine Schroeder Women in Public Service Memorial Scholarship
In the 21st century, low-income women are still facing the issue of not having the availability of feminine hygiene products. Those menstruating individuals are forced to use socks, rags, or even toilet paper to attend school or work because of a natural human process. The issue of period poverty is not just about the unavailability of hygiene products. It is a pressing issue of gender inequality, lack of education, and lack of empathy in our community. In Southern Nevada, the government covers coffee under SNAP, Nevada Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, however, pads and tampons are not covered. This unfortunate situation should not be occurring which is why I have become president and run Project Dot, a nonprofit providing feminine hygiene products to low-income women, non-binary, and transmen. Due to my 600+ hours of philanthropic work through 20+ local charities, including Summerlin Hills Hospital, I am not new to the poverty-stricken issues in our community. I wish to keep fighting for those with limited voices. Watching the receivers of Project Dots kits express their gratuity simply because they were going to have to decide to either put food on the table for their families or buy feminine hygiene products shows the corruption in our society, and I have been unafraid to expose the truth about such a taboo subject. Involvement in Project Dot has inspired me so much that I’ve doubled the number of kits distributed to about 4,000 a year and increased connections to 25+ local charities to advocate for the injustices of period poverty. Gender inequality and ending the stigma of period poverty are what I am fighting to change and will continue to fight. This battle hasn’t been easy as I have been shot down many times while applying for grants to fund my project but prevailing through this and securing $10k grants has allowed me to continue my revolution of change. Standing in front of the city council or even the Wynn Foundation was a test of my bravery, but my determination to make permanent changes allowed me to acquire funding for my project. I have lessened this issue immensely– but it is not done yet. Ultimately my cultivated education about period poverty has made me a confident leader. Project Dot has motivated me to continue the fight for this issue around inclusion, service, and social justice. The lack of education on this subject has led members of our community to assume this issue is in underdeveloped countries, not in America, stimulating the social stigma surrounding period poverty. As I continue to lead over 300 volunteers, secure grants, advocate, and educate, the future of society will be filled with change for such a marginalized community. Society is letting down the future generation of women by not increasing access to feminine hygiene products. I will continue to keep fighting for the future of our society through all my philanthropic endeavors because I am an inherent advocate determined to be a leader in society and make permanent changes.
“I Matter” Scholarship
Balancing school, work, and time to relax is extremely hard, but I always make sure it happens because giving back is so important to me. Nothing will ever compare to the time I was volunteering at Catholic Charities. It wasn't just the act of serving food; it was the human connection that truly cemented the experience in my mind. There was one woman in particular who stood out. I'd seen her the week before, a striking figure with jet-black eyebrows and unforgettable neon blue eyes, framed by a small black mole above one. This time, when she came through the line, I noticed the sesame seeds on the bread rolls. Recalling her allergy from the previous week, I politely said, "I'm sorry, but you can't have this bread because of the sesame seeds." My heart sank as her expression contorted. She quickly averted her gaze, took a different option, and shuffled away, leaving me wondering if I'd offended her. But after the line cleared, something unexpected happened. The woman approached me, tears welling in her eyes. To my surprise, they weren't tears of sadness, but of gratitude. Her voice choked with emotion, she shared that mine was the first time anyone had addressed her as anything other than "homeless lady" all week. It was a simple act, acknowledging her allergy and calling her something other than a label, yet it had a profound impact. This encounter taught me a valuable lesson. It's not just about the physical needs we fulfill when we volunteer; it's about the human connection we create. A kind word, a moment of recognition, can make a world of difference in someone's day. It showed me the power of empathy and the importance of seeing people beyond their circumstances. This experience is just one of many that have shaped my perspective on volunteering. It's a constant reminder that even the smallest gestures can have a ripple effect, leaving a lasting impact on both the recipient and the giver. It motivates me to keep giving back, to offer a smile, a listening ear, or simply a respectful interaction, because you never know how much those small acts might mean to someone. Volunteering isn't just about checking a box or fulfilling a requirement. It's about forging connections, fostering empathy, and making a genuine difference in the lives of others. It's about reminding ourselves of our shared humanity and the importance of compassion. While balancing school, work, and relaxation will always be a challenge, these experiences serve as a constant source of inspiration, reminding me that the time spent giving back is never wasted. It's an investment in the well-being of others and ultimately, in ourselves.
Boun Om Sengsourichanh Legacy Scholarship
In the 21st century, low-income women are still facing the issue of not having the availability of feminine hygiene products. Those menstruating individuals are forced to use socks, rags, or even toilet paper to attend school or work because of a natural human process. The issue of period poverty is not just about the unavailability of hygiene products. It is a pressing issue of gender inequality, lack of education, and lack of empathy in our community. In Southern Nevada, the government covers coffee under SNAP, Nevada Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, however, pads and tampons are not covered. This unfortunate situation should not be occurring which is why I have become president and run Project Dot, a nonprofit providing feminine hygiene products to low-income women, non-binary, and transmen. Due to my 600+ hours of philanthropic work through 20+ local charities, including Summerlin Hills Hospital, I am not new to the poverty-stricken issues in our community. I wish to keep fighting for those with limited voices. Watching the receivers of Project Dots kits express their gratuity simply because they were going to have to decide to either put food on the table for their families or buy feminine hygiene products shows the corruption in our society, and I have been unafraid to expose the truth about such a taboo subject. Involvement in Project Dot has inspired me so much that I have doubled the number of kits distributed to about 4,000 a year and increased connections to 25+ local charities to advocate for the injustices of period poverty. Gender inequality and ending the stigma of period poverty are what I am fighting to change and will continue to fight. This battle has not been easy as I have been shot down many times while applying for grants to fund my project but prevailing through this and securing $10k grants has allowed me to continue my revolution of change. Standing in front of the city council or even the Wynn Foundation was a test of my bravery, but my determination to make permanent changes allowed me to acquire funding for my project. I have lessened this issue immensely– but it is not done yet. My cultivated education about period poverty has made me a confident leader. Project Dot has motivated me to continue the fight for this issue around inclusion, service, and social justice. The lack of education on this subject has led members of our community to assume this issue is in underdeveloped countries, not in America, stimulating the social stigma surrounding period poverty. As I continue to lead over 300 volunteers, secure grants, advocate, and educate, the future of society will be filled with change for such a marginalized community. Society is letting down the future generation of women by not increasing access to feminine hygiene products. I will continue to keep fighting for the future of our society through all my philanthropic endeavors because I am an inherent advocate determined to be a leader in society and make permanent changes.
Janean D. Watkins Overcoming Adversity Scholarship
Standing shakily in front of the city council requesting money for such a stigmatized subject, I realized this was my last hope. Was this going to be the moment that I let down hundreds of Southern Nevada residents because of a problem with funding? As my nerves overwhelmed me, the pressure of realizing that without this grant, Project Dot, the non-profit I run that provides feminine hygiene products to women, transmen, and non-binary individuals, so many was going to suffer period poverty again. I am the President of Project Dot so if I failed, this would be on me. I had never spoken in front of such a big crowd, let alone with the stress of this being the last resort. Standing there like a deer in headlights, I thought to myself: What is there to lose? That was when a courageous spirit kicked in, and I realized that as I voiced my strong, empowering voice to everyone crowded in the City Hall, they also felt the importance of Project Dot. As President, I saw the extreme level of importance this grant meant to my whole community as so many face period poverty. Not even the government could fix this issue in Nevada as coffee is deemed a necessity under SNAP, but pads and tampons are not. Knowing that I had been up against such a tedious fight, the pressure was intimidating. But I learned something new that day– I put on a face. No one could feel my heart rapidly beating, that horrible nauseous feeling, my clammy palms, and that feeling of just wanting to give up. But, as I started to speak about something that I was so passionate about, those feelings began to dissipate. Before speaking my first words, I changed my mindset: if I put on a show where I look confident and am ready for everything, no one will know the difference. Stepping into this situation after COVID, I had no mask to hide my feelings. I went from a naive 14-year-old to now a 16-year-old speaking publicly for one of the most vulnerable populations in Nevada. Speaking was not the only scary part because after I had failed a couple of times before in securing grants, I walked into City Council with that weight on my chest. What if I lose another opportunity? All this background knowledge, no one knew, except for me and my busy mind. But it was all a mindset. Once I shifted to a mindset of perseverance, I was in perfect shape. That moment when I began speaking so eloquently with no error and full of pathos, I saw the impact I was making. Their intrigued faces made me realize that this grant was going to be different, and it was. It was only different because of the way the message was delivered, it was the same thing as all the other times, but instead, I was a confident young woman voicing my truth to help others. From that point on, I realized that a show of confidence will take you further and grant you higher chances of success. My newly found confidence led me to secure a different $10k grant from the Wynn Hotel, and I am currently in the process of getting my second grant from them as well. This lesson has reminded me that wherever I if I am a confident leader, others will be compelled to listen. This moment of realization changed the way I approach so many situations and what has made me extremely successful in Project Dot and being a leader in my community.
Friends of Ohm Labs Scholarship
Being an inherent advocate, I am determined to be a leader in society and make permanent changes. Throughout the past 18 years, I have curated a devotion, pursuing fire in me to pursue a career in the medical field to become a doctor. I have maintained a 4.0 GPA while balancing a jam-packed schedule and have been loyal to my future goal to become an anesthesiologist. I have continued my track by volunteering every week at Summerlin Hospital NICU/ ER, graduating CNA and pharmacy certified, running my non-profit, and indulging in 800+ hours of community service in the past three years. However, with my ambitious goals comes a costly investment in the next 12 years of my education. Once I become a medical professional, I want to advocate for marginalized communities and be a leader in creating, or as close as we can get to a utopian society. This scholarship will help jumpstart my long journey, especially as I am currently in a very vulnerable situation with my family's finances. It pains me to admit that I have to fear the future of my education because of our hardships with money. Although my small contribution to my family's bills has helped slightly, there has been no extra money to help account for my future education. However, I know my extreme dedication to my future and want to pursue a better society for everyone; I will prevail through these hardships with the support of my community. This scholarship consideration is extremely appreciated so I can continue my journey of becoming a medical professional. Achieving my career goals will allow me to ensure everyone has access to the medical care they require. I have seen too many needs go unmet throughout my philanthropic work, especially through running my non-profit, Project Dot, which provides feminine hygiene products to low-income women, transmen, and non-binary individuals in Southern Nevada. I have vowed to change the poverty problems that such a large community is facing just because of yet again, a lack of funding. I will ensure that money in the community gets redistributed and reallocated to the places that need it and will utilize it to its fullest potential. I have learned that so many needs often go unmet because others are unaware of the problems. For example, many people don't know that the government covers coffee under SNAP but not pads or tampons, so women are left with using rags or socks to attend school during menstruation. It is a simple problem like unawareness of the issues, so I am hoping that with my explanation of the need for this scholarship, I will be considered. My support for the community and hundreds of hours of philanthropy were never extrinsically motivated, however, during this desperate time, I hope that my community can give back some support to me. I will use the money to become a medical professional advocating for change in the community and making a difference.
John J Costonis Scholarship
I've always wanted to continue my education journey to enter the medical field, so I could advocate for marginalized communities who desperately need medical help. So many individuals lack the availability of vital necessities, so with my expanded expertise, I want to increase awareness about these problems that numerous individuals are enduring. Going into the medical field entails much more schooling, so within my education, my dream is to go to a 3rd world country to administer health care to many different communities. Furthermore, as I continue to run my own non-profit and partake in philanthropic work, I will continuously incorporate philanthropy into my university. Already having a deepened understanding of some of the most serious problems the Southern Nevada community faces, I am excited to expand my troupe of supporters at UCLA. My goal as I broaden my knowledge, I will be able to embark on helping more non-profits, specifically smaller and more local, and even expand my current non-profit to California. California has the largest homeless population in the nation which will make Project Dot's presence so significant. Project Dot's mission is to ensure that women, transmen, and non-binary individuals have access to feminine hygiene products. I have had to overcome so many challenges such as finding the perseverance, and courage to speak for such a stigmatized subject, and become a leader in society. Having the knowledge that I now have; I want to teach other youth leaders so that they can also make change. Having such a diverse group that is being represented in my Southern Nevada community has helped us fight gender equity issues and curate a safe space for so many individuals. It's my inherent mission to help everyone so that I can inspire an overall better community. Creating a positive environment and curating that patient-provider relationship is really what makes a difference in treatment, and watching this unfold has inspired me to become an M.D. Overall, knowing I am an inherent advocate, with the knowledge that will come from my future education, I will inevitably make changes for everyone in society. Especially those facing healthcare disparities. This scholarship will help jumpstart my long journey, especially as I’m in a very vulnerable time right now with my family's financial situation. It pains me to admit that I have to fear the future of my education because of my father’s job loss. Although my small contribution to my family's bills has helped slightly, there has been no extra money to help account for my future education. However, I know my extreme dedication to my future and want to pursue a better society for everyone, I will prevail through these hardships with the support of my community. In the future, I will help to eliminate inadequate healthcare delivery due to healthcare disparities. This scholarship consideration is extremely appreciated so I continue my journey of becoming a medical professional. I will become an M.D. and an anesthesiologist.
PRIDE in Education Award
Standing shakily in front of the city council requesting money for such a stigmatized subject, I realized this was my last hope. Was this going to be the moment that I let down hundreds of Southern Nevada residents because of a problem with funding? As my nerves overwhelmed me, the pressure of realizing that without this grant, Project Dot, the non-profit I run that provides feminine hygiene products to women, transmen, and non-binary individuals, so many would suffer period poverty again. I am the President of Project Dot, so if I failed, this would be on me. I had never spoken in front of such a big crowd, let alone with the stress of this being the last resort. Standing there like a deer in headlights, I thought to myself: What is there to lose? Then a courageous spirit kicked in. As President, I saw the importance this grant meant to my whole community as so many face period poverty. Since I had been up against such a tedious fight, I was intimidated. But I learned something new that day– I put on a face. No one could feel my heart rapidly beating, that horrible nauseous feeling, my clammy palms, and utter hopelessness. Before speaking my first words, I changed my mindset: if I put on a show where I look confident and am ready for everything, no one will know the difference. Stepping into this situation after COVID, I had no mask to hide my feelings. I went from a naive 14-year-old to now a 16-year-old speaking publicly for one of the most vulnerable populations in Southern Nevada. Speaking was not the only scary part because after I had failed a couple of times before in securing grants, I walked into City Council with that weight on my chest. What if I lose another opportunity? No one knew all this, except for me and my busy mind. Once I shifted to a mindset of perseverance, their intrigued faces made me realize that this grant was going to be different, and it was. It was only different because of the way I delivered the message; it was the same thing as all the other times, but instead, I was a confident leader voicing my truth to help others. From that point on, I realized that a show of confidence will take you further and incite change. My newly found confidence led me to secure $20k for Project Dot in the past 2 years. This lesson taught me that wherever I am, if I’m a confident leader, others will be compelled to listen. This moment of realization has solidified my dream of becoming a medical professional. I know I am an inherent leader who will speak up for those who are vulnerable and need assistance. Because of my courage and ability to speak above social norms, low-income women, transmen, and non-binary individuals are slowly not having to choose whether to put food on the table or care for their menstrual needs.
NE1 NE-Dream Scholarship
Being an inherent advocate, I am determined to be a leader in society and make permanent changes. Throughout the past 18 years, I have curated a devotion, pursuing fire in me to pursue a career in the medical field to become a doctor. I have maintained a 4.0 GPA while balancing a jam-packed schedule and have been loyal to my future goal to become an anesthesiologist. I have continued my track by volunteering every week at Summerlin Hospital NICU/ ER, graduating CNA and pharmacy certified, running my non-profit, and indulging in 800+ hours of community service in the past three years. However, with my ambitious goals comes a costly investment in the next 12 years of my education. Once I become a medical professional, I want to advocate for marginalized communities and be a leader in creating, or as close as we can get to a utopian society. This scholarship will help jumpstart my long journey, especially as I am currently in a very vulnerable situation with my family's finances. It pains me to admit that I have to fear the future of my education because of our hardships with money. Although my small contribution to my family's bills has helped slightly, there has been no extra money to help account for my future education. However, I know my extreme dedication to my future and want to pursue a better society for everyone; I will prevail through these hardships with the support of my community. This scholarship consideration is extremely appreciated so I can continue my journey of becoming a medical professional. Achieving my career goals will allow me to ensure everyone has access to the medical care they require. I have seen too many needs go unmet throughout my philanthropic work, especially through running my non-profit, Project Dot, which provides feminine hygiene products to low-income women, transmen, and non-binary individuals in Southern Nevada. I have vowed to change the poverty problems that such a large community is facing just because of yet again, a lack of funding. I will ensure that money in the community gets redistributed and reallocated to the places that need it and will utilize it to its fullest potential. I have learned that so many needs often go unmet because others are unaware of the problems. For example, many people don't know that the government covers coffee under SNAP but not pads or tampons, so women are left with using rags or socks to attend school during menstruation. It is a simple problem like unawareness of the issues, so I am hoping that with my explanation of the need for this scholarship, I will be considered. My support for the community and hundreds of hours of philanthropy were never extrinsically motivated, however, during this desperate time, I hope that my community can give back some support to me. I will use the money to become a medical professional advocating for change in the community and making a difference.
Kerry Kennedy Life Is Good Scholarship
I had already learned so much about the medical field as I went into my senior year of high school. I had completed four years of public health courses, and I was finally ready to obtain my CNA license. This year I had to complete my clinical hours at the nursing home for my CNA license. Knowing I was so passionate about this field, I was so excited to perform my newly learned skills for the residents in the nursing home. As I stood in the nursing home for the second time, I encountered a resident being rolled around in her feces. She was unable to move, speak, or even lift her eyebrow the slightest bit; I was in shambles. I looked at my classmate as we watched a CNA bang the resident's head into the bed after ripping the pillow away. Watching this happen caused a quick sense of unsureness about my future. I had never seen something like this before, and was I ready for a lifetime of this during my medical career? This experience suddenly put a quick halt to my idea of my future degree aspirations of becoming an MD. However, I was able to overcome this uncertainness about my future. After my initial hesitation, I spoke up, took over, and vowed to myself that if I had the power, I would never allow this to happen again. My leadership ability and courage saved future residents from ever being abused by this CNA again. I realized that without my presence, this incident would have never been reported, and other residents could have continued facing the same abuse. This experience solidified my ambitions to become a medical professional. Knowing that I have real-world experience and an understanding of the difficulties that go into this profession, I am confident that I will succeed. Many other individuals who have never seen the hardships that this profession comes with may be in for a shock, making them uncertain about their future. Experiencing clinical experience in the nursing home was an experience that I had to grow from. My sudden uncertainty quickly turned into an indefinite goal of becoming a doctor. Having the ability to overcome this challenge of seeing the rougher parts of medicine is something that will make me a better provider. I have now seriously experienced the fact that you must be in medicine for all aspects, not just the good days. Being a woman still in a male-dominated society is hard enough, but knowing I dare to speak up about my beliefs makes me confident that I will make a difference in the medical field. As a future medical professional, I want to speak up for marginalized communities as well as represent women who are normally overlooked. Knowing that I have real-world experience and an understanding of the difficulties that go into this profession, I'm confident that I will succeed. Many other individuals who have never seen the hardships that this profession comes with may be in for a shock, making them uncertain about their future. Instead of being naive and scared of the unknown, I've gone out and figured out what that unknown was, discovering my future as an MD.
Young Women in STEM Scholarship
I'd already learned so much about the medical field as I went into my senior year of high school. I had completed 4 years of public health courses and I was finally ready to obtain my CNA license. This year we had to complete our clinical hours at the nursing home for our CNA license. Knowing I was so passionate about this field, I was so excited to perform my newly learned skills for the residents in the nursing home. As I stood in the nursing home, for the second time, I encountered a resident being rolled around in her feces. She was unable to move, speak, or even lift her eyebrow the slightest bit; I was in shambles. I looked at my classmate as we watched a CNA roughly bang the resident's head into the bed after ripping the pillow away. Watching this happen caused a quick sense of unsureness about my future. I had never seen something like this before and was I ready for a lifetime of this during my medical career? This experience suddenly put a quick halt on my idea of my future degree aspirations of becoming an MD. However, I was able to overcome this unsureness about my future. After my initial hesitation, I spoke up, took over, and vowed to myself that as long as I had the power, I would never allow this to happen again. My leadership ability and courage saved future residents from ever being abused by this CNA again. I realized that without my presence, this incident would have never been reported, and other residents could have continued facing the same abuse. This experience I encountered solidified my ambitions to become a medical professional. Knowing that I have real-world experience and an understanding of the difficulties that go into this profession, I am confident that I will succeed. Many other individuals who have never seen the hardships that this profession comes with may be in for a shock making them uncertain about their future. Experiencing clinical experience in the nursing home was definitely an experience that I had to grow from. My sudden uncertainty quickly turned into an indefinite goal of becoming a doctor. I have discovered my dream of a job in information technology so that no resident ever has to experience this harsh treatment again! As I continue to follow my STEM path at UCLA, I am drawn to making permanent changes in the medical field, especially in the advocacy realm for vulnerable, marginalized patients. Having the ability to overcome this challenge of seeing the rougher parts of medicine is something that will make me a better provider. I have now seriously experienced the fact that you must be in medicine for all of the aspects, not just the good days. I know what I'm driven to do, and being so well-rounded has powered that drive. Instead of being naive and scared of the unknown, I've gone out and figured out what that unknown was, discovering my future as an MD. I am motivated and committed to everything that I partake in. Not only have I maintained a perfect 4.0 GPA, but I have also done much more besides school. Schooling has been an accessory to my immense success. I have over 1000+ hours of philanthropic work and within those hours, I run my own non-profit and am a weekly volunteer at the Summerlin Hospital at the NICU and front desk. I have secured $30k+ in grants for Project Dot so I could lessen period poverty and gender inequalities that so many low-income women, transmen, and non-binary individuals are encountering. I have led a group of 500+ volunteers to help make feminine hygiene kits over the years to help lessen period poverty and help raise awareness about this issue in my Southern Nevada community. I am a lead communicator with 25+ local charities and since becoming President, I have doubled the number of kits distributed to 4,000+. I have genuinely made a change in my community by increasing access to such a demanding necessity. Organizing kit builds and making orders for supplies costing thousands of dollars has shown me the importance of planning while being a leader. My ability to be so involved in my community wouldn't be possible without working so many hours to be able to afford it. Oftentimes I see a jam-packed schedule waking up at 4:45 a.m. and going to bed at 11 p.m., but I have definitely proved to myself that I crave a constantly busy schedule. Regardless of how tired I get, I ensure my academic life, family life, and community engagement are each cultivated with quality, not merely quantity. I have a drive that not many people can withhold or even achieve. I have dedication and determination that many yearn to achieve.
Lemon-Aid Scholarship
Carolyn Wheeler's kindness to introduce me into her community changed my future plans. Carolyn Wheeler is the director of Project Dot and offered me the opportunity to take over Project Dot and become president. Her confidence in my ability to run the charity, even without prior experience, was an opportunity I couldn't pass up. In the 21st century, low-income women are still facing the issue of not having the availability of feminine hygiene products. Those menstruating individuals are forced to use socks, rags, or even toilet paper to attend school or work because of a natural human process. The issue of period poverty is not just about the unavailability of hygiene products. It's a pressing issue of gender inequality, lack of education, and lack of empathy in our community. This unfortunate situation shouldn't be occurring, which is why Carolyn knew Project Dot must continue. Project Dot is a nonprofit providing feminine hygiene products to low-income women, non-binary, and transmen. Due to my 800+ hours of philanthropic work through 30+ local charities, including Summerlin Hills Hospital, I'm not new to the poverty-stricken issues in our community. Since becoming president, I've helped 10,000+ individuals facing period poverty. This battle hasn’t been easy as I've been shot down many times while applying for grants to fund my project, but prevailing through this and securing $30k+ in grants has allowed me to continue my revolution of change. I've lessened this issue immensely– but it's not done yet. This issue of period poverty and gender inequality was not going to lessen unless I expanded my troupe and united people in my community. As I stood shakily in front of the city council requesting money for such a stigmatized subject, I realized this was my last hope. As my nerves overwhelmed me, the pressure of realizing that without this grant, so many would suffer period poverty again. Standing there like a deer in headlights, I thought to myself: What is there to lose? Luckily the great woman who brought me into this charity was right by my side. As I looked at her, and put my trembling hands down to my sides, I saw that same look she had given me when offering my position as president. A glimmering sense of confidence surrounded her. She looked at me with the same confidence as she had that day when she offered the invaluable role of president to me. Her reinforcement of support allowed my hands to slowly stop violently shaking. A courageous spirit then kicked in. I learned something new that day– I put on a face. No one could feel my heart rapidly beating, that horrible nauseous feeling, my clammy palms, and utter hopelessness. Carolyn's confidence in me allowed me to shift to a mindset of perseverance. The confidence with which I delivered the message allowed me to secure this grant for Project Dot because the city council could feel the importance this grant would mean to our community. This lesson taught me that wherever I am if I’m a confident leader, others will be compelled to listen. This moment of realization has solidified my dream of becoming a healthcare professional. I know I am an inherent leader who will speak up for those who are vulnerable and need assistance. Carolyn's kindness in supporting me, inspiring me, and having confidence in me allowed me to see the potential I held. Because of my courage and ability to speak above social norms, low-income women, transmen, and non-binary individuals are slowly not having to choose whether to put food on the table or care for their menstrual needs.
Good People, Cool Things Scholarship
Standing shakily in front of the city council requesting money for such a stigmatized subject, I realized this was my last hope. Was this going to be the moment that I let down hundreds of Southern Nevada residents because of a problem with funding? As my nerves overwhelmed me, the pressure of realizing that without this grant, Project Dot, the non-profit I run that provides feminine hygiene products to women, transmen, and non-binary individuals, so many were going to suffer period poverty again. I am the President of Project Dot so if I failed, this would be on me. Project Dot has always been a close part of me as I have been fighting the unfair challenge of gender inequality and gender equity issues. I had never spoken in front of such a big crowd, let alone with the stress of this being the last resort. Standing there like a deer in headlights, I thought to myself: What is there to lose? A sense of vulnerability swept over me, but amidst the anxiety, a resilient spirit emerged. I voiced my strong, empowering voice to everyone crowded in the City Hall, and they also felt the importance of Project Dot. The grant was not just vital for my non-profit but held immense significance for the entire community grappling with period poverty. Not even the government could fix this issue in Nevada as coffee is deemed a necessity under SNAP, but pads and tampons are not. Knowing that I had been up against such a tedious fight, the pressure was intimidating. But, I learned something new that day– I put on a face. No one could feel my heart rapidly beating, that horrible nauseous feeling, my clammy palms, and that feeling of just wanting to give up. Masking my inner turmoil, I shifted my mindset, adopting an air of confidence. When I was awarded the grant I realized I had unlocked newly found creative passion. This outlet allowed me to get rushes of adrenaline while also helping my community eliminate period poverty. This creative passion allowed me to double the distribution of feminine hygiene kits and foster connections with over 25 local charities. My work in philanthropy has allowed me to ignore stigmatized thoughts on subjects which has allowed me to create a community where people feel safe. With over 400 volunteers, Project Dot now ensures that 10,000+ individuals are not facing period poverty. The impact extends beyond statistics; it lies in the relief for low-income women, transmen, and non-binary individuals who no longer face the impossible choice between food and menstrual care. If I had an extra 24 hours in a day I would spend it working on building my own websites and businesses. Running Project Dot and applying for grants was very closely related to operating a business and trying to find investors. That is why I had such a passion for being president because I was able to run the non-profit as well as help those in my community. I have already built my own college dorm essentials website and turned it into a four-figure business in less than two months. However, I would love to learn more about investing and creating more businesses. I have found myself being most creative when I am trying to embark on business endeavors and understand the logistics of how products succeed. It allows me to express my creative side as well as work with algorithms.
Women in STEM Scholarship
I'd already learned so much about the medical field as I went into my senior year of high school. I had completed four years of public health courses, and I was finally ready to obtain my CNA license. This year I had to complete my clinical hours at the nursing home for my CNA license. Knowing I was so passionate about this field, I was so excited to perform my newly learned skills for the residents in the nursing home. As I stood in the nursing home, for the second time, I encountered a resident being rolled around in her feces. She was unable to move, speak, or even lift her eyebrow the slightest bit; I was in shambles. I looked at my classmate as we watched a CNA roughly bang the resident's head into the bed after ripping the pillow away. Watching this happen caused a quick sense of unsureness about my future. I had never seen something like this before, and was I ready for a lifetime of this during my medical career? This experience suddenly put a quick halt on my idea of my future degree aspirations of becoming an MD. However, I was able to overcome this unsureness about my future. After my initial hesitation, I spoke up, took over, and vowed to myself that as long as I had the power, I would never allow this to happen again. My leadership ability and courage saved future residents from ever being abused by this CNA again. I realized that without my presence, this incident would have never been reported, and other residents could have continued facing the same abuse. This experience I encountered solidified my ambitions to become a medical professional. Knowing that I have real-world experience and an understanding of the difficulties that go into this profession, I am confident that I will succeed. Many other individuals who have never seen the hardships that this profession comes with may be in for a shock making them uncertain about their future. Experiencing clinical experience in the nursing home was definitely an experience that I had to grow from. My sudden uncertainty quickly turned into an indefinite goal of becoming a doctor. Having the ability to overcome this challenge of seeing the rougher parts of medicine is something that will make me a better provider. I have now seriously experienced the fact that you must be in medicine for all of the aspects, not just the good days. Being a woman in a traditionally male-dominated field poses its own set of challenges. Yet, my ability to voice my convictions and stand up for what I believe in bolsters my confidence in my capacity to effect positive change. As a future medical professional, I want to speak up for marginalized communities as well as represent women who are normally overlooked. Knowing that I have real-world experience and an understanding of the difficulties that go into this profession, I'm confident that I will succeed. Many other individuals who have never seen the hardships that this profession comes with may be in for a shock making them uncertain about their future. Instead of being naive and scared of the unknown, I've gone out and figured out what that unknown was, discovering my future as an MD.
Women in Healthcare Scholarship
I'd already learned so much about the medical field as I went into my senior year of high school. I had completed four years of public health courses, and I was finally ready to obtain my CNA license. This year I had to complete my clinical hours at the nursing home for my CNA license. Knowing I was so passionate about this field, I was so excited to perform my newly learned skills for the residents in the nursing home. As I stood in the nursing home, for the second time, I encountered a resident being rolled around in her feces. She was unable to move, speak, or even lift her eyebrow the slightest bit; I was in shambles. I looked at my classmate as we watched a CNA roughly bang the resident's head into the bed after ripping the pillow away. Watching this happen caused a quick sense of unsureness about my future. I had never seen something like this before, and was I ready for a lifetime of this during my medical career? This experience suddenly put a quick halt on my idea of my future degree aspirations of becoming an MD. However, I was able to overcome this unsureness about my future. After my initial hesitation, I spoke up, took over, and vowed to myself that as long as I had the power, I would never allow this to happen again. My leadership ability and courage saved future residents from ever being abused by this CNA again. I realized that without my presence, this incident would have never been reported, and other residents could have continued facing the same abuse. This experience I encountered solidified my ambitions to become a medical professional. Knowing that I have real-world experience and an understanding of the difficulties that go into this profession, I am confident that I will succeed. Many other individuals who have never seen the hardships that this profession comes with may be in for a shock making them uncertain about their future. Experiencing clinical experience in the nursing home was definitely an experience that I had to grow from. My sudden uncertainty quickly turned into an indefinite goal of becoming a doctor. Having the ability to overcome this challenge of seeing the rougher parts of medicine is something that will make me a better provider. I have now seriously experienced the fact that you must be in medicine for all of the aspects, not just the good days. Being a woman still in a male-dominated society is hard enough, but knowing I have the courage to speak up about my beliefs makes me confident that I will make a difference in the medical field. As a future medical professional, I want to speak up for marginalized communities as well as represent women who are normally overlooked. Knowing that I have real-world experience and an understanding of the difficulties that go into this profession, I'm confident that I will succeed. Many other individuals who have never seen the hardships that this profession comes with may be in for a shock making them uncertain about their future. Instead of being naive and scared of the unknown, I've gone out and figured out what that unknown was, discovering my future as an MD.
A Man Helping Women Helping Women Scholarship
I'd already learned so much about the medical field as I went into my senior year of high school. I had completed 4 years of public health courses and I was finally ready to obtain my CNA license. This year we had to complete our clinical hours at the nursing home for our CNA license. Knowing I was so passionate about this field, I was so excited to perform my newly learned skills for the residents in the nursing home. As I stood in the nursing home, for the second time, I encountered a resident being rolled around in her feces. She was unable to move, speak, or even lift her eyebrow the slightest bit; I was in shambles. I looked at my classmate as we watched a CNA roughly bang the resident's head into the bed after ripping the pillow away. Watching this happen caused a quick sense of unsureness about my future. I had never seen something like this before and was I ready for a lifetime of this during my medical career? This experience suddenly put a quick halt on my idea of my future degree aspirations of becoming an MD. However, I was able to overcome this unsureness about my future. After my initial hesitation, I spoke up, took over, and vowed to myself that as long as I had the power, I would never allow this to happen again. My leadership ability and courage saved future residents from ever being abused by this CNA again. I realized that without my presence, this incident would have never been reported, and other residents could have continued facing the same abuse. This experience I encountered solidified my ambitions to become a medical professional. Knowing that I have real-world experience and an understanding of the difficulties that go into this profession, I am confident that I will succeed. Many other individuals who have never seen the hardships that this profession comes with may be in for a shock making them uncertain about their future. Experiencing clinical experience in the nursing home was definitely an experience that I had to grow from. My sudden uncertainty quickly turned into an indefinite goal of becoming a doctor. Having the ability to overcome this challenge of seeing the rougher parts of medicine is something that will make me a better provider. I have now seriously experienced the fact that you must be in medicine for all of the aspects, not just the good days. Knowing that I have real-world experience and an understanding of the difficulties that go into this profession, I'm confident that I will succeed. Many other individuals who have never seen the hardships that this profession comes with may be in for a shock making them uncertain about their future. I'm motivated and committed to everything that I partake in. Maintaining a stellar academic record, numerous awards, and engaging in over 1,000 hours of volunteering, I've also ventured into entrepreneurship with my successful online store since 2017. My intrinsic motivation drives me to devote myself to my community, a flame I carry not for external recognition but for a genuine love of making a difference. Witnessing the struggles of individuals lacking access to vital necessities has fueled my passion for raising awareness about these issues. My inherent advocacy has fueled a determination to lead societal change. I know what I'm driven to do, and being so well-rounded has powered that drive. Instead of being naive and scared of the unknown, I've gone out and figured out what that unknown was, discovering my future as an MD.
Reginald Kelley Scholarship
As I stood in the nursing home for the second time, I encountered a resident being rolled around in her feces. She was unable to move, speak, or even lift her eyebrow the slightest bit; I was in shambles. I looked at my classmate as we watched a CNA roughly bang the resident head into the bed after ripping the pillow away. After my initial hesitation, I spoke up, took over, and vowed to myself that as long as I had the power, I would never allow this to happen again. My leadership ability and courage saved future residents from ever being abused by this CNA again. However, I realized that without my presence, this would’ve never been reported. This experience I encountered solidified my ambitions to become a medical professional. During my current studies as a public health major at UCLA, I'll have the ability to improve the lives of many. Being in the nation's state with the #1 homeless presence, I want to embark on providing medical help for those in marginalized communities. I want to initiate change for so many as I begin my freshman year and navigate through different clubs within the healthcare field and as I continue into medical school. Healthcare is a necessity that everyone should be granted, which is why in the future I hope to provide people with the security of their health. One of society's most prominent issues is disparity, and healthcare disparities have continued to increase. Around the world, even in the United States, there's a lot of unequal access to quality healthcare. According to WHO, about half of the world doesn't have access to adequate healthcare. How are we in the 21st century, and so many people cannot receive access to services necessary for survival? In the future, I specifically want to reduce the presence of geological limitations within healthcare. The healthcare system needs more physicians to occupy these rural areas and ensure adequate healthcare delivery. Furthermore, transportation must become more abundant in these areas if a healthcare facility cannot be located nearby. It's practically a death sentence for those whose closest healthcare facility is over an hour away. I hope in the future I can create a transportation network, including a physician network, where individuals can receive healthcare in these rural environments. This determination to create permanent positive change will lead me to my dream job of being a STEM anesthesiologist and changing the lives of those in my community. Wanting to embark on the healthcare field connected me very deeply to biology and entrepreneurialism. I am compelled to make calls to action and to be a leader in a sea of followers. I have been dedicated to my pre-health endeavors for the past four years. Besides now majoring in a pre-health major at UCLA, I have been volunteering at the Summerlin Hills Hospital weekly. I have always had a love for medicine and making permanent positive changes. Throughout high school, I proved my dedication to my nursing studies as I maintained a 4.0 unweighted/ 5.5 weighted GPA, worked 20+ hours a week, ran my non-profit, volunteered weekly at the Summerlin Hills Hospital, and gained over 700 hours of community service. All of this has not been easy, but my extreme dedication to pursuing medicine has allowed me to continue my journey! Also being involved in extracurriculars such as HOSA Future Health Professionals at WCTA has given me leadership skills that I intend to use within my future career. Throughout all of my high school endeavors, I've been passionate about my future and know I'll achieve my goals.
Kalia D. Davis Memorial Scholarship
Finding my perseverance. Something many yearn to achieve. While I often found myself reminiscing over the ease of my earlier life, deep down inside, my conscience wouldn’t let me. My perseverance has shown in my schooling, volunteering, working, and relationships. In my eyes, there is always a solution. If there wasn't a solution, there was learning to be had. Although it has been hard for me to grasp the concept of “there's no fear in failing,” the fear of accepting failure has kept me from deciding to succeed. Perseverance was necessary every time I advocated for a change in my community while others were against me. I put my perseverance to the test when I stood in front of the City Council requesting money for a taboo, stigmatized subject to fund my project to end period poverty. Being shot down so many times, because many didn’t believe access to feminine hygiene products was necessary, I wasn’t going to let money be the reason this issue about physical and mental health went untreated. I was finally able to secure grants and change lives; if I had given up or accepted the suffering of thousands each month due to inadequate feminine hygiene products and gender inequality, I would not be running my charity right now. Perseverance has now spread to all aspects of my life: balancing a busy schedule with time management. Regardless of how exhausted I get, I ensure my academic life, family life, and community engagement are each cultivated with quality not merely quantity. Committing to high-level intellectual and emotional pursuits in service of others in my four short years of high school is really what my perseverance has shown me I’m capable of achieving. I surpass goals I thought I would never be able to achieve such as obtaining Gold Presidential Service Awards– I push my limits past what I believe is possible. This experience started to help me in school as well. I continued to push myself to keep going, even if I thought I would never comprehend these bizarre subjects. I saw some classmates easily fly through the curriculum, but my intellectuality took time. I had to work hard and study to achieve comparable results. The 10 hours of studying before a test sometimes wouldn’t even be enough; it was hours upon hours of pushing my intellectual ability. However, this foundation of perseverance and determination is what kept me going. Finally, breaking through that barrier, again, showed me that it may take me 10+ hours to achieve the results I wanted but I wasn't going to give up. Advocating for issues in my community turned me into a persevering leader who won't stop until I achieve my intentions. This finely curated strength has allowed me to maintain my 4.0 GPA and an even higher 5.50 unweighted to continue me down the track of applying to medical school. My success thus far in school has continued to fuel my determination to become an anesthesiologist. This scholarship will help jumpstart my long journey, especially as I’m in a very vulnerable time right now with my family's financial situation. It pains me to admit that I have to fear the future of my education because of my father’s job loss. However, I know my extreme dedication to my future and want to pursue a better society for everyone, I will prevail through these hardships with the support of my community. This scholarship consideration is extremely appreciated so I continue my journey of becoming a medical professional.
Girls Ready to Empower Girls
Meeting one of the most influential people, Carolyn Wheeler, has allowed me to discover a sense of community. Carolyn Wheeler is the director of Project Dot, and her daughter is the founder. She not only has one of the largest names within the philanthropic community in Las Vegas, but she is one of the most driven individuals I have even been in contact with. When I was faced with the opportunity to take over Project Dot and become president, she offered nothing but the uttermost support. Her confidence in my ability to run the charity, even without prior experience, was an opportunity I could not pass up. Carolyn's support has introduced me to a realm of activism I would have never seen before. Ultimately my cultivated education about period poverty has made me a confident leader. Project Dot has motivated me to continue the fight for this issue around inclusion, service, and social justice. The lack of education on this subject has led members of our community to assume this issue is in underdeveloped countries, not in America, stimulating the social stigma surrounding period poverty. As I continue to lead over 300 volunteers, secure grants, advocate, and educate, the future of society will be filled with change for such a marginalized community. Being fortunate enough to represent such a vulnerable population has changed the way I approach many situations in my life. I continuously lead with my inherent advocacy. Hosting kit builds with hundreds of volunteers every year has allowed Project Dot to help thousands of individuals not have to face period poverty as well as bring the community together. Project Dot is a youth-led charity, so having the ability as President to educate youth leaders is something for which I am extremely grateful. Having so many youth leaders involved guarantees a future of philanthropists making permanent positive changes in our community. Society is letting down the future generation of women by not increasing access to feminine hygiene products. I will continue to keep fighting for the future of our society through all my philanthropic endeavors because I am an inherent advocate determined to be a leader in society and make permanent changes. Being President of Project Dot has taught me so many invaluable skills, such as community outreach, leadership, communications, and determination which continuously show up in my life. The completion of my education goals will allow me to ensure that everyone has access to the medical care they require. I have seen too many needs go unmet throughout my philanthropic work, especially through running Project Dot. I have vowed to change the poverty problems that such a large community is facing just because, yet again, of a lack of funding. I will ensure that money in the community gets redistributed and reallocated to the places that need it and will utilize it to its fullest potential. I have learned that so many needs often go unmet because others are unaware of the problems. Once I become a medical professional, I want to advocate for marginalized communities and be a leader in creating, or as close as we can get to a utopian society. Curating that patient-provider relationship to initiate safety and change makes a difference in patient care. Through my education, I will continuously engage in my community and improve healthcare delivery as I have already done in my Southern Nevada community.
Bright Lights Scholarship
I am genuinely committed to my future and have a clear path to where I want to go. In every activity that I take part in, I have dedication too. I am certain that I want to continue my educational journey. After completing the past four years of high school and taking health sciences for nursing, I am positive that I want to have a career in the healthcare field. Having so much background knowledge in healthcare has driven me to spend the rest of my life caring for others and having a career that I love. Graduating with my CNA and pharmacy tech license has given me real-world insight into what health care entails compared to those who have only gotten textbook experience. Real-world experiences and patients have changed my way of thinking about the healthcare field and made me realize that it requires strong, empathic individuals to represent such a vulnerable population. Having to go to nursing facilities for my CNA license highlights the importance of that patient-provider relationship which takes a lot of empathy! Knowing that I have real-world experience and an understanding of the difficulties that go into this profession, I am confident that I will succeed. Many other individuals who have never seen the hardships that this profession comes with may be in for a shock, making them uncertain about their future. I know what I am driven to do, and being so well-rounded has powered that drive. Instead of being naive and scared of the unknown, I have gone out and figured out what that unknown was, discovering my future. Having a deepened understanding and love for medicine has proved to me and everyone around me that I am dedicated to my future. I will utilize this scholarship for my education because I know that is what I want to do. I will withhold my determination and dedication allowing me to utilize this scholarship to its full capacity. I will ensure that the money funds my journey to becoming a leader and making a permanent positive change in our society. This scholarship will help jumpstart my long journey, especially as I’m in a very vulnerable time right now with my family's financial situation. It pains me to admit that I have to fear the future of my education because of my father’s job loss. Although my small contribution to my family's bills has helped slightly, there has been no extra money to help account for my future education. However, I know my extreme dedication to my future and want to pursue a better society for everyone, I will prevail through these hardships with the support of my community. In the future, I will help to eliminate inadequate healthcare delivery due to healthcare disparities. This scholarship consideration is extremely appreciated so I continue my journey of becoming a medical professional. I will become an M.D. and an anesthesiologist.
Harriett Russell Carr Memorial Scholarship
In the 21st century, low-income women are still facing the issue of not having the availability of feminine hygiene products. Menstruating individuals are forced to use socks, rags, or even toilet paper to attend school or work because of a natural human process. It is also a pressing issue of gender inequality, lack of education, and lack of empathy in our community. In Southern Nevada, the government covers coffee under SNAP, Nevada Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, however, pads and tampons are not covered. Since hearing about this inequality, I have become president and run Project Dot, a non-profit providing feminine hygiene products to low-income women, non-binary, and transmen. Due to my 800+ hours of philanthropic work through 30+ local charities, including Summerlin Hills Hospital, I am not new to the poverty-stricken issues in our community. I wish to keep fighting for those with limited voices. Watching the receivers of Project Dots kits express their gratuity simply because they were going to have to decide to either put food on the table for their families or buy feminine hygiene products shows the corruption in our society, and I have been unafraid to expose this truth about such a taboo subject. Taking part in Project Dot has inspired me so much that I have doubled the number of kits distributed to about 4,000 a year and increased connections to 25+ local charities to advocate for the injustices of period poverty. This battle for change has not been easy as I have been shot down many times while applying for grants to fund my project but prevailing through this and securing $10k grants has allowed me to continue my revolution of change. Since becoming president, I have secured $30k+ in grants to continue funding Project Dot as a non-profit. Making these products accessible has been successful– but it is not done yet. One of the biggest problems is the lack of education and unawareness which is why Project Dot has made such an impact. This year I am especially focused on educating young women and men to become youth leaders in the community because it will incite a revolution of change. The lack of education on this subject has led members of our community to assume this issue is in underdeveloped countries, not in America, stimulating the social stigma surrounding period poverty. Implementing changes by eliminating taxes on products, including products in social welfare programs, and supporting this marginalized community by donating time or products to local shelters will reduce this pressing issue. Leading such a wonderful and active group of over 400 members in my Southern Nevada community has become such a significant part of me that feels impossible to give up, which is why I am not. This year I am determined to bring Project Dot to UCLA. Although California passed a law requiring public colleges to provide free menstrual products to students, there is still such a large community needing feminine hygiene products that are not enrolled in college. In Southern Nevada, one of our bigger groups in need is elementary schools needing feminine hygiene products. I foresee Project Dot doubling in size once again and having over 800 students involved by the end of 2024 and helping California, which has the largest homeless presence in the nation. Since discovering my inherent advocacy as a leader, I know in the future I will continue my philanthropy work. I want to keep advocating for marginalized communities and ensuring everyone has access to essentials.
Noah Jon Markstrom Foundation Scholarship
Finishing my four years of public health science coursework and graduating high school with my CNA and Pharmacy Tech license lured me to the path of becoming an M.D. I'm an inherent advocate and I want to ensure that I spend my life advocating for those in need of medical care and delivering the best possible support, particularly to those with healthcare disparity. Observing vulnerability within patients and the connections each doctor had with their patients, I witnessed empathy-building experiences. These close relationships opened my heart and eyes to the medical field. The knowledge from my high school classes inspired me to begin volunteering at the Summerlin Hill Hospital NICU/ ER. However, although I had an abundance of knowledge, I was still overcoming my fear of speaking up. The first time I volunteered in the NICU at Summerlin Hospital, the silence was nerve-racking. Any movement I made, I could hear the crinkling of my neon blue, volunteer hospital coat. But I made myself speak to the nurses, waiting patiently until they looked away from charts they were rapidly typing into the computer. As I put my shaking, clammy hands down to my side, I confidently introduced myself and started conversations. These small moments led to the nurses trusting me, calling me back and forth to all of their crying babies when none of the other volunteers made an effort. Realizing that, I took the shakiness out of my voice and put a look of confidence on my face– no one could tell. This led to me finding my inherent advocacy which would soon allow me to make extreme changes in my community. I'd already learned so much about the medical field as I went into my senior year of high school. This year we had to complete our clinical hours at the nursing home for our CNA license. Knowing I was so passionate about this field, I was so excited to perform my newly learned skills for the residents in the nursing home. As I stood in the nursing home for the second time, I encountered a resident being rolled around in her feces. She was unable to move, speak, or even lift her eyebrow the slightest bit; I was in shambles. I looked at my classmate as we watched a CNA roughly bang the residents head into the bed after ripping the pillow away. After my initial hesitation, I spoke up, took over, and vowed to myself that as long as I had the power, I would never allow this to happen again. My leadership ability and courage saved future residents from ever being abused by this CNA again. However, I realized that without my presence, this would’ve never been reported. This experience solidified my ambitions to become a medical professional and want to pursue a career in pediatric medicine.
Jeanie A. Memorial Scholarship
Standing shakily in front of the city council requesting money for such a stigmatized subject, I realized this was my last hope. Was this going to be the moment that I let down hundreds of Southern Nevada residents because of a problem with funding? As my nerves overwhelmed me, the pressure of realizing that without this grant, Project Dot, the non-profit I run that provides feminine hygiene products to women, transmen, and non-binary individuals, so many would suffer period poverty again. I am the President of Project Dot, so if I failed, this would be on me. I had never spoken in front of such a big crowd, let alone with the stress of this being the last resort. Standing there like a deer in headlights, I thought to myself: What is there to lose? Then a courageous spirit kicked in. As President, I saw the importance this grant meant to my whole community as so many faces period poverty. Since I had been up against such a tedious fight, I was intimidated. But I learned something new that day– I put on a face. No one could feel my heart rapidly beating, that horrible nauseous feeling, my clammy palms, and utter hopelessness. Before speaking my first words, I changed my mindset: if I put on a show where I look confident and am ready for everything, no one will know the difference. Stepping into this situation after COVID, I had no mask to hide my feelings. I went from a naive 14-year-old to now a 16-year-old speaking publicly for one of the most vulnerable populations in Southern Nevada. Speaking was not the only scary part because after I had failed a couple of times before in securing grants, I walked into City Council with that weight on my chest. What if I lose another opportunity? No one knew all this, except for me and my busy mind. Once I shifted to a mindset of perseverance, their intrigued faces made me realize that this grant was going to be different, and it was. It was only different because of the way I delivered the message; it was the same thing as all the other times, but instead, I was a confident leader voicing my truth to help others. From that point on, I realized that a show of confidence will take you further and incite change. My newly found confidence led me to secure $20k for Project Dot in the past 2 years. This lesson taught me that wherever I am, if I’m a confident leader, others will be compelled to listen. This moment of realization has solidified my dream of becoming a healthcare professional. I know I am an inherent leader who will speak up for those who are vulnerable and need assistance. Because of my courage and ability to speak above social norms, low-income women, transmen, and non-binary individuals are slowly not having to choose whether to put food on the table or care for their menstrual needs.
Jacob Daniel Dumas Memorial Jewish Scholarship
As I stood in the nursing home for the second time, I encountered a resident being rolled around in her feces. She was unable to move, speak, or even lift her eyebrow the slightest bit; I was in shambles. I looked at my classmate as we watched a CNA roughly bang the resident head into the bed after ripping the pillow away. After my initial hesitation, I spoke up, took over, and vowed to myself that as long as I had the power, I would never allow this to happen again. My leadership ability and courage saved future residents from ever being abused by this CNA again. However, I realized that without my presence, this would’ve never been reported. This experience I encountered solidified my ambitions to become a medical professional. During my current studies as a public health major at UCLA, I will have the ability to improve the lives of many. Being in the nation's state with the #1 homeless presence, I want to embark on providing medical help for those in marginalized communities. I want to initiate change for so many as I begin my freshman year and navigate through different clubs within the healthcare field and as I continue into medical school. Healthcare is a necessity that everyone should be granted, which is why in the future, as I continue my journey to becoming an MD, I hope to provide people with the security of their health. One of society's most prominent issues is disparity, and healthcare disparities have continued to increase. Around the world, even in the United States, there is a lot of unequal access to quality healthcare. According to WHO, about half of the world does not have access to adequate healthcare. How are we in the 21st century, and so many people cannot receive access to services necessary for survival? In the future, I specifically want to reduce the presence of geological limitations within healthcare. The healthcare system needs more physicians to occupy these rural areas and ensure adequate healthcare delivery. Furthermore, transportation must become more abundant in these areas if a healthcare facility cannot be located nearby. It is practically a death sentence for those whose closest healthcare facility is over an hour away. I hope in the future I can create a transportation network, including a physician network, where individuals can receive healthcare in these rural environments. This determination to create permanent positive change will allow me to become an MD and change the lives of those in my community. Wanting to embark on the healthcare field as well as transportation has connected me very deeply to biology and entrepreneurialism. I am compelled to make calls to action and to be a leader in a sea of followers. I have been dedicated to my pre-health endeavors for the past four years. I have always had a love for medicine and making permanent positive changes. Throughout high school, I proved my dedication to my nursing studies as I maintained a 4.0 unweighted/ 5.5 weighted GPA, worked 20+ hours a week, ran my non-profit, volunteered weekly at the Summerlin Hills Hospital, and gained over 700 hours of community service. All of this has not been easy, but my extreme dedication to pursuing medicine has allowed me to continue my journey! Also being involved in extracurriculars such as HOSA Future Health Professionals at WCTA has given me leadership skills that I intend to use within my future career. Throughout all of my high school endeavors, I am passionate about my future and know I will achieve my goals.
Bold.org x Forever 21 Scholarship + Giveaway
(@)annarose
E.R.I.C.A. Scholarship
Being an inherent advocate, female underrepresented minority, I am determined to be a leader in society and make permanent changes. Throughout the past 18 years, I have curated a devotion, creating a fire in me to pursue a career in the medical field by becoming a medical doctor. Volunteering every week at Summerlin Hospital NICU or ER, graduating with my CNA and pharmacy tech license, running my own non-profit, and indulging in 800+ hours of community service in the past three years has furthered my plan to continue my philanthropic work. Indulging in my philanthropic work is not something that I am extrinsically motivated by, it is an intrinsic fire that I love. Considering I want to be in the medical field, I plan on being in education for much longer as well as representing a vulnerable population. I want to preserve the trust of those going through such a vulnerable time. Volunteering at the hospital has given me insight into the coordination of running a hospital and the need for more medical professionals. Although it is tedious work, it is essential for the function of society. During my long educational journey, my dream is to go to underdeveloped countries to administer health care to many different communities. Already having a deepened understanding of the issues of poverty that lie within society and the unmet needs individuals are encountering, I wish to keep fighting for those with limited voices despite their economic situation. I have committed to high-level intellectual and emotional pursuits in service of others because I am a leader in a sea of followers. I've always wanted to continue my education journey to enter the medical field, so I could advocate for marginalized communities who desperately need medical help. So many individuals lack the availability of vital necessities, so with my expanded expertise, I want to increase awareness about these problems that numerous individuals are enduring. Going into the medical field entails much more schooling, so within my education, my dream is to go to a 3rd world country to administer health care to many different communities. Furthermore, as I continue to run my own non-profit and partake in philanthropic work, I will continuously incorporate philanthropy into my university. Already having a deepened understanding of some of the most serious problems the Southern Nevada community faces, I am excited to expand my troupe of supporters when I attend UCLA. My goal as I broaden my knowledge, I will be able to embark on helping more non-profits, specifically smaller and more local, and even expand my current non-profit to California. California has the largest homeless population in the nation which will make Project Dot's presence so significant. Project Dot's mission is to ensure that women, transmen, and non-binary individuals have access to feminine hygiene products. Creating a positive environment and curating that patient-provider relationship is really what makes a difference in treatment, and watching this unfold has inspired me to become an M.D. Overall, knowing I am an inherent advocate, with the knowledge that will come from my future education, I will inevitably make changes for everyone in society. Especially those facing healthcare disparities. I have gone out and figured out what that unknown was, discovering my future. A deepened understanding and love for medicine has proved to me and everyone around me that I am dedicated to science because I know that is what I want to do and as a medical student, the basic science curriculum expands into Anatomy, Biochemistry, Physiology, Histology and Statistics.
Beyond The C.L.O.U.D Scholarship
Being an inherent advocate, I am determined to be a leader in society and make permanent changes. Throughout the past 18 years, I have curated a devotion, creating a fire in me to pursue a career in the medical field by becoming a doctor. Volunteering every week at Summerlin Hospital NICU or ER, graduating with my CNA and pharmacy tech license, running my own non-profit, and indulging in 800+ hours of community service in the past three years has furthered my plan to continue my philanthropic work. Indulging in my philanthropic work is not something that I am extrinsically motivated by, it is an intrinsic fire that I love. Considering I want to be in the medical field, I plan on being in education for much longer as well as representing a vulnerable population. I want to preserve the trust of those going through such a vulnerable time. Volunteering at the hospital has given me insight into the coordination of running a hospital and the need for more medical professionals. Although it is tedious work, it is essential for the function of society. During my long educational journey, my dream is to go to underdeveloped countries to administer health care to many different communities. Already having a deepened understanding of the issues of poverty that lie within society and the unmet needs individuals are encountering, I wish to keep fighting for those with limited voices despite their economic situation. I have committed to high-level intellectual and emotional pursuits in service of others because I am a leader in a sea of followers. I am genuinely committed to my future and have a clear path to where I want to go. In every activity that I take part in, I am dedicated too. After completing the past four years of high school and taking health sciences for nursing, maintaining a perfect 4.0 GPA, and passing all my AP tests, including a five on my AP Physiology exam, I am positive that I want to have a career in medicine. Having so much background knowledge in healthcare has driven me to spend the rest of my life caring for others and having a career that I love. Knowing that I have real-world experience and an understanding of the difficulties that go into this profession, I am confident that I will succeed. Many other individuals who have never seen the hardships that this profession comes with may be in for a shock, making them uncertain about their future. Instead of being naive and scared of the unknown, I have gone out and figured out what that unknown was, discovering my future. A deepened understanding and love for medicine has proved to me and everyone around me that I am dedicated to my future. I will utilize this scholarship for my education to contribute to the STEM community because I know that is what I want to do and as a medical student, the basic science curriculum expands into Anatomy, Biochemistry, Physiology, Histology and Statistics. I will ensure that the money funds my journey to becoming a leader and making a permanent positive change in our society. Being so positive about wanting to earn a bachelor's degree, take (and Ace!) the MCAT, complete medical school and residency, and then pass my final board exam to become a medical doctor makes me a perfect recipient of this scholarship!
Pratibha Pandey Merit-Based Scholarship
I am motivated and committed to everything that I partake in. Not only have I maintained a perfect 4.0 GPA and 5.5 weighted, but I’ve also done much more besides school. I run my own non-profit and am a weekly volunteer at the Summerlin Hospital at the NICU and front desk. I have lessened period poverty and gender inequalities in my Southern Nevada community that so many low-income women, transmen, and non-binary individuals are encountering. Applying for grants and securing $30,000+ to fund my non-profit, and running it has helped me understand the intricate details of marginalized communities and funding. I have led a group of over 500+ volunteers within Project Dot to help lessen period poverty and help raise awareness about this issue in my community. I am a lead communicator with over 25+ local charities, and since becoming President, I have ensured that 10,000+ individuals are not facing period poverty. I have incited change in my community by increasing access to such a demanding necessity. Organizing kit builds and making orders for supplies costing thousands of dollars has shown me the importance of planning while being a leader. I have also held leadership positions in the National Charity League such as Co-Communication Leader, Publicity and Newsletter Chair, Cultural Chair, Board of Fundraising For Senior Recognition, Recording Secretary, Leadership Chair, and Vice President of Programs. While doing all of this I also work 25+ hours a week. Oftentimes I see a jam-packed schedule, waking up at 4:45 a.m. and going to bed at 11 p.m., but I've proved to myself that I crave a constantly busy schedule. Regardless of how tired I get, I ensure my academic life, family life, and community engagement are each cultivated with quality, not merely quantity. I have a drive that not many people can withhold or even achieve that will help me accomplish my prestigious goal of becoming an anesthesiologist. I've committed to high-level intellectual and emotional pursuits in service of others because I am a leader in a sea of followers. After completing the past four years of high school and taking health sciences for nursing, I'm positive that I want to have a career in the healthcare field. Graduating with my CNA and pharmacy tech license has given me real-world insight into what health care entails compared to those who have only gotten textbook experience. Real-world experiences and patients have changed my way of thinking about the healthcare field and made me realize that it requires strong, empathic individuals to represent such a vulnerable population. When I went to nursing facilities for clinical hours, I understood the importance of that patient-provider relationship which takes a lot of empathy! Knowing that I've seen what it takes, I'm confident that I'll succeed. Other individuals who have never seen the hardships within this profession may be in for a shock, making them uncertain about their future. Instead of being naive and scared of the unknown, I figured out what that unknown was, my future as an M.D. in anesthesiology. Being so certain and committed to my future has allowed me to hold time-consuming leadership roles within my philanthropy, work full-time jobs, maintain a high GPA, and spend quality social time with my family and friends. I will withhold my determination and dedication, allowing me to utilize this scholarship to its full capacity. My past endeavors have molded me into a motivated individual ready for my future.
Abu Omar Halal Scholarship
As I stood in the nursing home, for the second time, I encountered a resident being rolled around in her feces. She was unable to move, speak, or even lift her eyebrow the slightest bit; I was in shambles. I looked at my classmate as we watched a CNA roughly bang the resident head into the bed after ripping the pillow away. After my initial hesitation, I spoke up, took over, and vowed to myself that as long as I had the power, I would never allow this to happen again. My leadership ability and courage saved future residents from ever being abused by this CNA again. However, I realized that without my presence, this would’ve never been reported. This experience I encountered solidified my ambitions to become a medical professional. During my current studies as a public health major at UCLA, I will have the ability to improve the lives of many. Being in the nation's state with the #1 homeless presence, I want to embark on providing medical help for those in marginalized communities. I want to initiate change for so many as I begin my freshman year and navigate through different clubs within the healthcare field and as I continue into medical school. Healthcare is a necessity that everyone should be granted, which is why in the future, as I continue my journey to becoming an MD, I hope to provide people with the security of their health. One of society's most prominent issues is disparity, and healthcare disparities have continued to increase. Around the world, even in the United States, there is a lot of unequal access to quality healthcare. According to WHO, about half of the world does not have access to adequate healthcare. How are we in the 21st century, and so many people cannot receive access to services necessary for survival? In the future, I specifically want to reduce the presence of geological limitations within healthcare. The healthcare system needs more physicians to occupy these rural areas and ensure adequate healthcare delivery. Furthermore, transportation must become more abundant in these areas if a healthcare facility cannot be located nearby. It is practically a death sentence for those whose closest healthcare facility is over an hour away. I hope in the future I can create a transportation network, including a physician network, where individuals can receive healthcare in these rural environments. This determination to create permanent positive change will allow me to become an MD and change the lives of those in my community. Wanting to embark on the healthcare field as well as transportation has connected me very deeply to biology and entrepreneurialism. As I currently run my own business and am involved in healthcare activities, I have discovered that I am determined to continue this track in the future. I am compelled to make calls of action and to be a leader in a sea of followers. Overall, due to my current studies, I see myself inevitably making changes in the healthcare field for those facing healthcare disparities.
Maxwell Tuan Nguyen Memorial Scholarship
Finishing my four years of public health science coursework and graduating high school with my CNA and Pharmacy Tech license lured me to the path of becoming an M.D. Being an inherent advocate, I want to ensure that I spend my life advocating for those in need of medical care and delivering the best possible support, particularly to those with healthcare disparity. Observing vulnerability within patients and the connections each doctor had with their patients, I witnessed empathy-building experiences. These close relationships opened my heart and eyes to the medical field. Volunteering at the Summerlin Hill Hospital NICU/ ER was another experience that helped me find my love for the medical field. The first time I volunteered in the NICU at Summerlin Hospital, the silence was nerve-racking. Any movement I made, I could hear the crinkling of my neon blue, volunteer hospital coat. But, I made myself speak to the nurses, waiting patiently until they looked away from charts they were rapidly typing into the computer. As I put my shaking, clammy hands down to my side, I confidently introduced myself and started conversations. These small moments led to the nurses trusting me, calling me back and forth to all of their crying babies when none of the other volunteers made an effort. Realizing that, I took the shakiness out of my voice and put a look of confidence on my face– no one could tell. This led to me finding my inherant advocacy which would soon allow for me to make extreme changes in my community. This year we had to complete our clinical hours at the nursing home for our CNA license. Knowing I was so passionate about this field, I was so excited to perform my newly learned skills for the residents in the nursing home. As I stood in the nursing home, for the second time, I encountered a resident being rolled around in her feces. She was unable to move, speak, or even lift her eyebrow the slightest bit; I was in shambles. I looked at my classmate as we watched a CNA roughly bang the residents head into the bed after ripping the pillow away. After my initial hesitation, I spoke up, took over, and vowed to myself that as long as I have the power, I would never allow this to happen again. My leadership ability and courage saved future residents from ever being abused by this CNA again. This experience I encountered solidified my ambitions to become a medical professional. During my current studies as a public health major at UCLA, I will have the ability to improve the lives of many. Healthcare is a necessity that everyone should be granted, which is why as I continue my journey to becoming an MD, I hope I can provide people with the security of their health. One of the most prominent issues society faces is disparity, and healthcare disparities have continued to increase. I specifically want to reduce the presence of geological limitations within healthcare. We need more physicians to occupy rural areas and ensure adequate healthcare delivery. Transportation needs to be more abundant in these areas if a healthcare facility cannot be located nearby. It is a death sentence for those whose closest healthcare facility is over an hour away. I hope in the future I can create a transportation network where individuals can receive healthcare in these rural environments. Due to my current studies, I see myself inevitably making changes in the healthcare field for those facing healthcare disparities.
STEM & Medicine Passion Essay
Finishing my four years of public health science coursework and graduating high school with my CNA and Pharmacy Tech license lured me to the path of becoming an M.D. I'm an inherent advocate and I want to ensure that I spend my life advocating for those in need of medical care and delivering the best possible support, particularly to those with healthcare disparity. Observing vulnerability within patients and the connections each doctor had with their patients, I witnessed empathy-building experiences. These close relationships opened my heart and eyes to the medical field. The knowledge from my high school classes inspired me to begin volunteering at the Summerlin Hill Hospital NICU/ ER. However, although I had an abundance of knowledge I was still overcoming my fear of speaking up. The first time I volunteered in the NICU at Summerlin Hospital, the silence was nerve-racking. Any movement I made, I could hear the crinkling of my neon blue, volunteer hospital coat. But, I made myself speak to the nurses, waiting patiently until they looked away from charts they were rapidly typing into the computer. As I put my shaking, clammy hands down to my side, I confidently introduced myself and started conversations. These small moments led to the nurses trusting me, calling me back and forth to all of their crying babies when none of the other volunteers made an effort. Realizing that, I took the shakiness out of my voice and put a look of confidence on my face– no one could tell. This led to me finding my inherant advocacy which would soon allow for me to make extreme changes in my community. I'd already learned so much about the medical field as I went into my senior year of high school. This year we had to complete our clinical hours at the nursing home for our CNA license. Knowing I was so passionate about this field, I was so excited to perform my newly learned skills for the residents in the nursing home. As I stood in the nursing home, for the second time, I encountered a resident being rolled around in her feces. She was unable to move, speak, or even lift her eyebrow the slightest bit; I was in shambles. I looked at my classmate as we watched a CNA roughly bang the residents head into the bed after ripping the pillow away. After my initial hesitation, I spoke up, took over, and vowed to myself that as long as I have the power, I would never allow this to happen again. My leadership ability and courage saved future residents from ever being abused by this CNA again. However, I realized that without my presence, this would’ve never been reported. This experience I encountered solidified my ambitions to become a medical professional. I realized the experience and knowledge I had gained earlier had been expressed to help aid my community. From my constant love of helping others, I was able to channel this energy into changing-period poverty issues in my Southern Nevada community. I'm president of Project Dot which provides feminine hygiene products to low-income women, transmen, and non-binary individuals. Not only is this an issue around inclusion, service, and social justice, but it is also an extreme health risk. Individuals have to use socks or rags because they don't have access to feminine products. Since discovering my inherent advocacy, I've made great changes in my community. I've secured $30k+ in grants for Project Dot and ensured 10,000+ individuals do not have to decide whether to put food on the table or purchase feminine hygiene products.
Manny and Sylvia Weiner Medical Scholarship
As I stood in the nursing home, for the second time, I encountered a resident being rolled around in her feces. She was unable to move, speak, or even lift her eyebrow the slightest bit; I was in shambles. I looked at my classmate as we watched a CNA roughly bang the resident head into the bed after ripping the pillow away. After my initial hesitation, I spoke up, took over, and vowed to myself that as long as I have the power, I will never allow this to happen again. My leadership ability and courage saved future residents from ever being abused by this CNA ever again. However, realizing without my presence, this would’ve never been reported. This experience I encountered solidified my ambitions to become a medical professional. Once I become a medical professional, I want to advocate for marginalized communities and be a leader in creating, or as close as we can get to a eutopic society. The completion of my career goals will allow me to ensure that everyone has access to the medical care they require. I have seen too many needs go unmet throughout my philanthropic work, especially through running and being president of Project Dot, which provides feminine hygiene products to low-income women, transmen, and non-binary individuals in Southern Nevada. I have vowed to change the poverty problems that such a large community is facing just because of yet again, a lack of funding. I have learned that so many needs often go unmet because of funding issues. For example, many people dont know that the government covers coffee under SNAP but not pads or tampons, so women are left with using rags or socks to attend school during menstruation. I have first handedly been affected by financial issues, which made me fear the future of education. When my father lost his job this year, my family's hopes of helping me pay for college turned into me helping contribute to bills. This fear during our financial hardships helped me understand how people who are facing healthcare disparities feel. Experiencing these emotions made me realize how passionate I am about becoming a healthcare professional. I want to ensure that everyone feels comfortable receiving medical help, no matter their financial situation. I believe that someone who makes a difference in the healthcare field has experience, and experience is something that I have an abundance of. Many other individuals who have never seen the hardships that this profession comes with may be in for a shock, making them uncertain about their future. Throughout my hundreds of hours volunteering in the hospital, gaining licenses, and working as a CNA in nursing homes, I am continuously driven to my future in healthcare. I have seen that it isn’t just textbook memorization, these are real people who require emotions. I know I am driven to accomplish my goals, and being so well-rounded has powered that drive. Instead of being naive and scared of the unknown, I have gone out and figured out what that unknown was, discovering my future. I will ensure that this scholarship funds my journey to becoming a leader and making a permanent positive change in our society.
Michael Rudometkin Memorial Scholarship
Screaming, encapsulated in the middle of 80,000 people holding an unconscious, limp woman while everyone just stared. This scene unfolded at Day ‘n Vegas. The lights had turned black; the spectators jolted forward in a singular motion. Everyone is packed in, hungry for air. The music is inaudible as screams from the audience pierce through the air. Unable to move. As people fall all around me, crippled in fear, I decide to not allow despair inside my body. Forging my way forward through a sea of festival goers to avoid being trampled, I nearly make it to the gates to safety. Until… My attention is directed to a woman swaying lethargically, No one is doing anything. Instinctively, I grab her to make sure she’s OK. As I hold her, she faints in my arms. Suddenly, I am on autopilot. Looking up at a giant circle of gawkers that is formed around us, I scream for anyone around to help. Surrounded by blank stares I realize I am talking to completely dissociated people– the only ones aware of the gravity of the situation. I had forgotten I had two friends clinging to me; they had followed me from the stage. Grab a bottle of water from my friend’s hand. I am on the ground now, still holding the unconscious woman and splashing water on her face and neck. Seconds feel like hours, but she regains consciousness. I am screaming for people to help once more. I am 5’5 and weigh 110 lbs.: Why am I the only one doing something? Not even the six’3'' male lookie-loo flinch to help. Finally, she is aware enough to stand. Leaning on me the entire way to the gate, I handed her off to a security guard to be taken to the nurse’s station. She thanked me. Had I not done anything, she may have been trampled like the ten victims who died the weekend before at the Astro World Festival. Understanding the bystander effect from AP Psychology, I learned that in a dire situation, the more people present, the less likely individuals are to intervene. Diffused responsibility. Advocating for myself (such as removing myself from the crowd) is an achievement, but selfishly motivated. Yet, the moment I begin speaking up for others or countering social norms, that courage is rare. Being a leader is something a lot of people claim to be but being philanthropic or doing a few helpful things in the community is not true leadership. Choosing leadership and finding your voice when everyone is against you is the self-actualization that most people never reach. Leadership is not about being in charge, it is about taking care of others in your charge. It is about saying what you mean and not saying what it means. It is about doing the right thing, not merely being right. It was long before the previous incident that I realized my power and my voice were invaluable. As President of Project Dot, I advocate for low-income women and trans men, providing feminine hygiene products in compassionate and discreet ways. I needed to make changes because no one else would. Seeing from the perspective of those in need as well as those who are more comfortable watching from the sidelines is vastly important. Occasionally, I change someone’s life or someone’s perspective. Reaching the top of the hierarchy of self-actualization, I am speaking my mind and defying social norms. I am compelled to make calls to action and to be a leader in a sea of followers.
Our Destiny Our Future Scholarship
Being an inherent advocate, I am determined to be a leader and make permanent changes. Throughout the past 17 years, I have curated a devotion, creating a fire in me to pursue a career in the medical field by becoming a doctor. Volunteering every week at Summerlin Hospital Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) or ER, graduating with my Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) and pharmacy tech license, running my own non-profit, and indulging in 500+ hours of community service in the past three years has furthered my plan to continue my philanthropic work. Indulging in my philanthropic work is not something it extrinsically motivates me is an intrinsic fire that I love. Considering I want to be in the medical field, I plan on being in education for much longer while I continue representing a vulnerable population. I want to preserve the trust of those going through such a vulnerable time. Volunteering at the hospital has given me insight into the planning of running a hospital and the need for more medical professionals. Although it is tedious work, it is essential for the functioning of society. During my long educational journey, my dream is to go to underdeveloped countries to administer health care to many different communities. Already having a deepened understanding of the issues of poverty within society and the unmet needs individuals are encountering, I wish to keep fighting for those with limited voices despite their economic situation. Being President and running my non-profit organization, Project Dot which provides feminine hygiene kits to low-income women, trans-men, and non-binary individuals, I plan to stay involved until period poverty is eliminated. I am determined to make the availability of feminine hygiene products a permanent change considering it is a gender equity issue and a problem with funding. Every day new opportunities are being made for menstruating individuals as the community slowly evolves. Many states have already cut their “tampon tax” which eliminates taxes on all feminine hygiene products. That alone reduced the rates exponentially of those enduring period poverty. The other twenty-two states in our country are still not interested in reducing this pressing issue by keeping their tax in law. There are realistic solutions such as removing the tax on feminine products and eventually having federal agencies cover those products. Furthermore, as I continue to run my own non-profit and partake in philanthropic activities, I will continuously partake in health-related philanthropy opportunities in the future. I want to go to college to become a healthcare professional, but I also want to expand my knowledge, become more culturally aware, and continue my philanthropic work. Throughout my educational journey, I will be exposed to new opportunities to benefit our community, making me a powerful leader. Educating and becoming more educated on societal issues is one of the most powerful ways to incite change. I will continue to be involved in my community far into the future because I know I am a strong, dedicated leader that will not stop until changes are made.
Sara Chaiton Scholarship for Resilient Women
Meeting one of the most influential people, Carolyn Wheeler has allowed me to discover a sense of community. Carolyn Wheeler is the director of Project Dot and her daughter is the founder. She not only has one of the largest names within the philanthropic community in Las Vegas, but she is one of the most driven individuals I have even been in contact with. When I was faced with the opportunity to take over Project Dot and become president, she offered nothing but the uttermost support. Her confidence in my ability to run the charity, even without prior experience, was an opportunity I could not pass up. Carolyn's support has introduced me to a realm of activism I would have never seen before. In the 21st century, low-income women are still facing the issue of not having the availability of feminine hygiene products. Those menstruating individuals are forced to use socks, rags, or even toilet paper to attend school or work because of a natural human process. The issue of period poverty is not just about the unavailability of hygiene products. It is a pressing issue of gender inequality, lack of education, and lack of empathy in our community. In Southern Nevada, the government covers coffee under SNAP, Nevada Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program; however, pads and tampons are not covered. This unfortunate situation should not be occurring, which is why Carolyn knew Project Dot must continue. Project Dot is a nonprofit providing feminine hygiene products to low-income women, non-binary, and transmen. Due to my 800+ hours of philanthropic work through 30+ local charities, including Summerlin Hills Hospital, I am not new to the poverty-stricken issues in our community. I wish to keep fighting for those with limited voices. Watching the receivers of Project Dots kits express their gratuity simply because they were going to have to decide to either put food on the table for their families or buy feminine hygiene products shows the corruption in our society, and I have been unafraid to expose the truth about such a taboo subject. Involvement in Project Dot has inspired me so much that I’ve doubled the number of kits distributed to about 4,000 a year and increased connections to 27+ local charities to advocate for the injustices of period poverty. Since becoming president, I have helped over 10,000 individuals facing period poverty. Gender inequality and ending the stigma of period poverty are what I am fighting to change and will continue to fight. This battle hasn’t been easy as I have been shot down many times while applying for grants to fund my project, but prevailing through this and securing $30k+ in grants has allowed me to continue my revolution of change. I have lessened this issue immensely– but it is not done yet. Being President of Project Dot has taught me so many invaluable skills, such as community outreach, leadership, communications, and determination which continuously show up in my life. The completion of my education goals will allow me to ensure that everyone has access to the medical care they require. I have learned that so many needs often go unmet because others are unaware of the problems. Once I become a medical professional, I want to advocate for marginalized communities and be a leader in creating, or as close as we can get to a eutopic society. Curating that patient-provider relationship to initiate safety and change makes a difference in patient care. Through my education, I will continuously engage in my community and improve healthcare delivery as I have already done in my Southern Nevada community.
Bulchand and Laxmi Motwani Memorial Scholarship
Being a confident leader in my community was a quality I had to work hard on achieving. Finding it challenging to speak in front of new people, I always used to stumble over my words which made it easier for me to just stay quiet and observe. While I learned a lot about people, I noticed a lot of my input that would be very beneficial. Being quiet anymore wasn’t an option when I realized important scenarios that needed attention. The first time I volunteered in the NICU at Summerlin Hospital, the silence was nerve-racking. Any movement I made, I could hear the crinkling of my neon blue, volunteer hospital coat. But, I made myself speak to the nurses, waiting patiently until they looked away from charts they were rapidly typing into the computer. As I put my shaking, clammy hands down to my side, I confidently introduced myself and started conversations. These small moments led to the nurses trusting me, calling me back and forth to all of their crying babies when none of the other volunteers made an effort. Overcoming my fear of speaking out allowed me to unlock a strength of mine to find my perseverance. Something many yearn to achieve. While I often found myself reminiscing over the ease of my earlier life, deep down inside, my consciences wouldn’t let me. Perseverance was necessary every time I advocated for a change in my community while others were against me. I put my perseverance to the test when I stood in front of the Las Vegas City Council requesting money for a taboo, stigmatized subject to fund my project to end period poverty. Being shot down so many times, because many didn’t believe access to feminine hygiene products were necessary, I wasn’t going to let money be the reason this issue regarding physical and mental health went untreated. I was finally able to secure grants and change lives; if I had given up or accepted the suffering of thousands each month due to inadequate feminine hygiene products and gender inequality, I wouldn’t be running my charity right now. Perseverance has now spread to all aspects of my life: balancing a busy schedule with time management. Regardless of how exhausted I get, I ensure my academic life, family life, and community engagement are each cultivated with quality not merely quantity. Committing to high-level intellectual and emotional pursuits in service of others in my four short years of high school is really what my perseverance has shown me I’m capable of achieving. I surpass goals I thought I would never be able to achieve such as obtaining Gold Presidential Service Awards– I push my limits past what I believe is possible. This experience started to benefit me in school as well. I continued to push myself to keep going, even if I thought I would never comprehend these bizarre subjects. My intellectuality took more time than some of my peers. The 10 hours of studying before a test sometimes wouldn’t even be enough; it was hours upon hours of pushing my intellectual ability. However, this foundation of perseverance and determination is what kept me going. Finally, breaking through that barrier, again, showed me that it may take me 10+ hours to achieve the results I wanted, but I wasn't going to give up. This finely curated strength has allowed me to maintain my 4.0 GPA and an even higher 5.5 unweighted to continue me down the track of applying to medical school. My success thus far in school has continued to fuel my determination to become a medical professional.
Priscilla Shireen Luke Scholarship
In the 21st century, low-income women are still facing the issue of not having the availability of feminine hygiene products. Menstruating individuals are forced to use socks, rags, or even toilet paper to attend school or work because of a natural human process. It is also a pressing issue of gender inequality, lack of education, and lack of empathy in our community. In Southern Nevada, the government covers coffee under SNAP, Nevada Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, however, pads and tampons are not covered. Since hearing about this inequality, I have become president and run Project Dot, a non-profit providing feminine hygiene products to low-income women, non-binary, and transmen. Due to my 800+ hours of philanthropic work through 30+ local charities, including Summerlin Hills Hospital, I am not new to the poverty-stricken issues in our community. I wish to keep fighting for those with limited voices. Watching the receivers of Project Dots kits express their gratuity simply because they were going to have to decide to either put food on the table for their families or buy feminine hygiene products shows the corruption in our society, and I have been unafraid to expose this truth about such a taboo subject. Taking part in Project Dot has inspired me so much that I have doubled the number of kits distributed to about 4,000 a year and increased connections to 25+ local charities to advocate for the injustices of period poverty. This battle for change has not been easy as I have been shot down many times while applying for grants to fund my project, but prevailing through this and securing $10k grants has allowed me to continue my revolution of change. Since becoming president I have secured $30k+ in grants to continue funding Project Dot as a non-profit. Making these products accessible has been successful– but it is not done yet. One of the biggest problems is the lack of education and unawareness which is why Project Dot has made such an impact. This year I am especially focused on educating young women and men to become youth leaders in the community because it will incite a revolution of change. The lack of education on this subject has led members of our community to assume this issue is in underdeveloped countries, not in America, stimulating the social stigma surrounding period poverty. Implementing changes by eliminating taxes on products, including products in social welfare programs, and supporting this marginalized community by donating time or products to local shelters will reduce this pressing issue. Leading such a wonderful and active group of over 400 members in my Southern Nevada community has become such a significant part of me that feels impossible to give up, which is why I am not. This year I am determined to bring Project Dot to UCLA. Although California passed a law requiring public colleges to provide free menstrual products to students, there is still such a large community needing feminine hygiene products that are not enrolled in college. In Southern Nevada, one of our bigger groups in need is elementary schools needing feminine hygiene products. I foresee Project Dot doubling in size once again and having over 800 students involved by the end of 2024 and helping California, which has the largest homeless presence in the nation. Since discovering my inherent advocacy as a leader, I know in the future I will continue my philanthropy work. I want to keep advocating for marginalized communities and ensuring everyone has access to essentials.
Dounya Discala Scholarship
Standing shakily in front of the city council requesting money for such a stigmatized subject, I realized this was my last hope. Was this going to be the moment that I let down hundreds of Southern Nevada residents because of a problem with funding? As my nerves overwhelmed me, the pressure of realizing that without this grant, Project Dot, the non-profit I run that provides feminine hygiene products to women, transmen, and non-binary individuals, so many were going to suffer period poverty again. I am the President of Project Dot so if I failed, this would be on me. Standing there like a deer in headlights, I thought to myself: What is there to lose? As President, I saw the extreme level of importance this grant meant to my whole community as so many face period poverty. Not even the government could fix this issue in Nevada as coffee is deemed a necessity under SNAP, but pads and tampons are not. Knowing that I had been up against such a tedious fight, the pressure was intimidating. But, I learned something new that day– I put on a face. No one could feel my heart rapidly beating, that horrible nauseous feeling, my clammy palms, and that feeling of just wanting to give up. Speaking was not the only scary part because after I had failed a couple of times before in securing grants, I walked into City Council with that weight on my chest. There were so many people who did not care about these gender equity and period poverty issues. This was turning into Project Dot's last resort to continuing as a non-profit because I had been rejected for plenty of grants previously. All of this background knowledge, no one knew, except for me and my busy mind. But it was all a mindset. Once I shifted to a mindset of perseverance, I was in perfect shape. That moment when I began speaking so eloquently with no error and full of pathos, I saw the impact I was making. Their intrigued faces made me realize that this grant was going to be different, and it was. It was only different because of the way the message was delivered, it was the same thing as all the other times, but instead, I was a confident young woman voicing my truth to help others. From that point on, I realized that a show of confidence will take you further and grant you higher chances of success. I realized that although so many people in that room did not agree with me, once I began speaking about something I was so confident in, they began to see the importance. My newly found confidence to go against the normal led me to secure $30k+ so far. This lesson has reminded me that wherever I am if I am a confident leader, others will be compelled to listen. This moment of realization changed the way I approach so many situations and what has made me extremely successful in Project Dot and being a leader in my community. It has allowed me to reduce the issue of period poverty and gender inequality in Southern Nevada as I have doubled the number of feminine hygiene kits distributed and have connected with over 25+ local charities to help fight this issue. With 400+ volunteers, Project Dot now helps 10,000+ individuals who need feminine hygiene products in Southern Nevada. Low-income women, transmen, and non-binary individuals are finally not having to choose whether to put food on the table or care for their menstrual needs.
Joshua’s Home Remodeling Scholarship
As I stood in the nursing home, for the second time, I encountered a resident being rolled around in her feces. She was unable to move, speak, or even lift her eyebrow the slightest bit; I was in shambles. I looked at my classmate as we watched a CNA roughly bang the resident head into the bed after ripping the pillow away. After my initial hesitation, I spoke up, took over, and vowed to myself that as long as I have the power, I will never allow this to happen again. My leadership ability and courage saved future residents from ever being abused by this CNA ever again. However, realizing without my presence, this would’ve never been reported. This experience I encountered solidified my ambitions to become a medical professional. I believe that someone who makes a difference in the healthcare field has experience, and experience is something that I have an abundance of. I am genuinely committed to my future and have a clear path to where I want to go. In every activity that I partake in, I have dedication too. I am absolutely certain that I want to continue my educational journey. After completing the past four years of high school and taking health sciences for nursing, I am positive that I want to have a career in the healthcare field. Having so much background knowledge in healthcare has driven me to spend the rest of my life caring for others and while having a career I love. Graduating with my CNA and pharmacy tech certification has given me real-world insight into what health care entails compared to those who have only gotten textbook experience. Real-world experiences and patients have changed my way of thinking about the healthcare field and made me realize that it requires strong, empathic individuals to represent such a vulnerable population. Having to go to nursing facilities for my CNA license really highlights the importance of that patient-provider relationship which takes a lot of empathy! Knowing that I have real-world experience and an understanding of the difficulties that go into this profession, I am confident that I will succeed. Many other individuals who have never seen the hardships that this profession comes with may be in for a shock making them uncertain about their future. Finding my strength and learning that I am an inherent advocate was a skill I have vowed to continue using, especially while representing such vulnerable populations in the medical field. I know what I am driven to do, and being so well-rounded has powered that drive. Instead of being naive and scared of the unknown, I have gone out and figured out what that unknown was, discovering my future. Having a deepened understand and love for medicine has proved to me and everyone around me that I am dedicated to my future. I will utilize this scholarship for my education because I know that is what I want to do. I will withhold my determination and dedication allowing me to utilize this scholarship to its full capacity. I will ensure that the money funds my journey to becoming a leader and making a permanent positive change in our society. Being so positive about wanting to attend undergraduate school and then graduate school makes me a perfect recipient of this scholarship.
WCEJ Thornton Foundation Low-Income Scholarship
Standing shakily in front of the city council, I could feel my clammy hands soaking into my notecard. I was pleading for funding for the non-profit I run, Project Dot, so that I could continue to provide women, transmen, and non-binary individuals with feminine hygiene products. I was not new to the philanthropy scene as I have grasped an understanding of the importance of community service. Through my 800+ volunteering hours at a variety of locations, including the Summerlin Hospital NICU and ER, National Charity League, HOSA, and even the National Honor Society, I knew how much these marginalized communities needed support. As I began speaking to the board about my need for support, I realized my pitch would be successful this time. After I was notified that I had secured a $10k grant from the Wynn Foundation, I felt so much relief. I was going to be able to continue to provide feminine hygiene products for thousands of people across Southern Nevada to ensure that they did not have to decide whether to put food on the table or buy basic hygiene necessities. Being president and running the non-profit has given me a unique perspective on community outreach. The abundance of charities I have worked with, from Catholic Charities, Salvation Army, Spread the Word, Purple Strides, and more, never captured the raw events that occur. Being 16 years old and advocating for such a widespread community that needed support changed my idea of approaching situations. Finding my strength and learning that I am an inherent advocate was a skill I have vowed to continue using. The need for people to speak up for these groups is imperative or else change will not be made. If I had not continued my determination to ensure that individuals were not facing period poverty and gender inequality, many would be in a seriously horrific situation, such as using socks or rags to control their menstrual cycle. Without my advocacy, so many did not know that coffee is deemed a necessity under SNAP in Southern Nevada, but pads and tampons are not. As I continue to expand my outreach to over 26+ local charities, the fight is not yet over. Involving myself in the community made me realize that it is not an intrinsically motivated act for me. I genuinely want to cultivate a stronger, more cohesive society for everyone within. Being a leader in a sea of followers is a role I attempt to perpetually uphold. Not only have I learned how to voice my own opinion, but also how to listen to and incorporate other collaborators’ opinions. Curating my ability to prevail through all the people who told me I could not achieve my goals fueled me into such a strong leader today. As I lead my volunteer group of over 300+, I want to keep making permanent positive changes in society. Having the ability to teach hundreds of individuals about prevailing through the fear of failure and going against social norms has made me realize that even the smallest acts make you a positive participant in the community. Making changes does not just happen with one single initiative. Helping the community can be done by telling a couple of friends about a local charity, donating 1 singular feminine hygiene kit, or even securing grants for thousands of dollars. However, I have noticed that there is one common factor that seems to appear within every consistent community participant; the intrinsically motivated feeling to make a change. It keeps people going just because they want to, not because they are looking for a reward. I think that withholding that intrinsic motivation is really what makes you a positive participant in your community. Overall, giving back to the community is a way you can thank those who have been there for you since the beginning. Finding my perseverance while advocating for such a stigmatized subject of period poverty has molded me into the leader that I am today. My initial discovery of this standing in front of the city council taught me the invaluable lesson of going against social norms. It has allowed me to ensure 10,000+ individuals do not suffer period poverty, and I intend to increase that number. I hope to continue educating youth leaders in the community to persevere and not be afraid to talk about causes they hold dear to them so that we have a larger group of philanthropists in the future.
Christina Taylese Singh Memorial Scholarship
As I stood in the nursing home, for the second time, I encountered a resident being rolled around in her feces. She was unable to move, speak, or even lift her eyebrow the slightest bit; I was in shambles. I looked at my classmate as we watched a CNA roughly bang the resident's head into the bed after ripping the pillow away. After my initial hesitation, I spoke up, took over, and vowed to myself that as long as I have the power, I will never allow this to happen again. My leadership ability and courage saved future residents from ever being abused by this CNA ever again. However, realizing without my presence, this would’ve never been reported. This experience I encountered solidified my ambitions to become a medical professional. Graduating high school with my CNA and Pharmacy Tech certification has drawn me to the healthcare field. I am dedicated to Public Health study because it provides a background in medicine, specifically in anesthesiology, but it also provides a more intricate education in communication skills, how to create healthier societies, and even business administration. Throughout my many years in education and my future career, I want to preserve the trust of those going through such a vulnerable time. Already having a deepened understanding of the issues of poverty that lie within society and the unmet needs individuals are encountering, I wish to keep fighting for those with limited voices despite their economic situation. Throughout high school, I've discovered inherent advocacy. I'm determined to be a leader in society and make permanent changes. The past 17 years have demonstrated that I curated a devotion, pursuing fire in me to pursue a career in the medical field to become a doctor. I have maintained a 4.0 GPA while balancing a jam-packed schedule and have been loyal to my future goal to become an anesthesiologist. I have continued my track by volunteering every week at Summerlin Hospital NICU or ER, graduating with my CNA and pharmacy tech license, running my own non-profit, and indulging in 800+ hours of community service in the past three years. Once I become a medical professional, I want to advocate for marginalized communities and be a leader in creating, or as close as we can get to a eutopic society. The completion of my career goals will allow me to ensure that everyone has access to the medical care they require. I have seen too many needs go unmet throughout my philanthropic work, especially through running and being president of Project Dot, which provides feminine hygiene products to low-income women, transmen, and non-binary individuals in Southern Nevada. I believe that someone who makes a difference in the healthcare field has experience, and experience is something that I have an abundance of. Many other individuals who have never seen the hardships that this profession comes with may be in for a shock, making them uncertain about their future. Throughout my hundreds of hours volunteering in the hospital, gaining licenses, and working as a CNA in nursing homes, I am continuously driven to my future in healthcare. I have seen that it isn’t just textbook memorization, these are real people who require emotions. Instead of being naive and scared of the unknown, I have gone out and figured out what that unknown was, discovering my future. Having a deepened understanding and love for medicine has proved to me and everyone around me that I am dedicated to my future. Being so positive about wanting to attend undergraduate school and then graduate school makes me a perfect recipient of this scholarship.
William Griggs Memorial Scholarship for Science and Math
Finishing my fourth year of public health science coursework and I graduated high school last month with my Pharmacy Tech license has drawn me to becoming an M.D. I am an inherent advocate, and I want to ensure I spend my life advocating for those in need of medical care and delivering the best possible support, particularly to those with healthcare disparity. From my previous love of philanthropic work, working in the medical field was somewhere I noticed my philanthropic heart being allured. My involvement in real-life experiences within the Health Sciences fields has ensured me that I want to be an anesthesiologist. Making an impact on future generations and our current communities is really what drives me to be a medical professional. I’m intrigued by the opportunity to intern around the world and to learn at top facilities nearby to teach me invaluable skills. Getting a degree in Medical Sciences is not strictly about education, it also entails so many real-world connections and opportunities to make an impact on communities. Furthermore, the ability to partake in public health activities such as study abroad programs will deepen my knowledge and introduce me to diverse global issues currently unmet. Empathy-building experiences like these will allow me to open my heart and eyes to the problems I can impact as a medical professional. Especially being able to visit marginalized communities and improve the medical care that is delivered is something that I strive to accomplish with my education. Contributing to global experiences will strengthen my cultural adaptability which is vital in medicine as physicians serve all patients equitably. Being well-rounded will ensure that I help create more inclusive environments that are safer for everyone in the community when they feel that they can trust those who are providing for them medically. This is so important to me that I carry out this task because throughout history many have found it hard to trust healthcare providers due to previous actions and I want to help get rid of that stigma and create a trusting environment for those who are receiving care. Creating a positive environment and curating that patient-provider relationship is really what makes a difference in treatment and that is something I would ensure I accomplished. While obtaining my degree or even after there will be many research opportunities that I am interested in as well as finding mentors who will help me along my educational journey. Having the ability to partake in community-engaged research projects is something I want to experience as well. For instance, firsthand research opportunities like the Embryonic Signaling Pathways in Stomach Cancer are a field, as a women’s issues supporter, that I would be interested in contributing to. Specific research opportunities like the cancer field are really where I am interested in making a change with my medical degree. Making new discoveries that change the aspect of our world is another thing that I strive to do with my background in medicine. Overall, medical science offers the exact opportunities that would allow me to be a successful medical professional and to have a unique learning opportunity on the way to achieving that dream. Not only would getting this degree set me on the path to getting my M.D. and becoming an anesthesiologist but I would still be able to make major implications in society on my track to medical school. I will make positive changes for those underrepresented and for anyone who needs medical attention.
Reasons To Be - In Memory of Jimmy Watts
I am motivated and committed to everything that I partake in. Not only have I maintained a perfect 4.0 GPA and 5.5 weighted, but I’ve also done much more besides school. I run my own non-profit and am a weekly volunteer at the Summerlin Hospital at the NICU and front desk. I have lessened period poverty and gender inequalities in my Southern Nevada community that so many low-income women, transmen, and non-binary individuals are encountering. Applying for grants and securing $30,000+ to fund my non-profit, and running it has helped me understand the intricate details of marginalized communities and funding. I have led a group of over 500+ volunteers within Project Dot to help lessen period poverty and help raise awareness about this issue in my community. I am a lead communicator with over 25+ local charities, and since becoming President, I have doubled the number of kits distributed to 4,000. I have incited change in my community by increasing access to such a demanding necessity. Organizing kit builds and making orders for supplies costing thousands of dollars has shown me the importance of planning while being a leader. While doing all of this I also work 25+ hours a week. Oftentimes I see a jam-packed schedule, waking up at 4:45 a.m. and going to bed at 11 p.m., but I've proved to myself that I crave a constantly busy schedule. Regardless of how tired I get, I ensure my academic life, family life, and community engagement are each cultivated with quality, not merely quantity. I have a drive that not many people can withhold or even achieve that will help me accomplish my prestigious goal of becoming an anesthesiologist. I've committed to high-level intellectual and emotional pursuits in service of others because I am a leader in a sea of followers. After completing the past four years of high school and taking health sciences for nursing, I'm positive that I want to have a career in the healthcare field. Graduating with my CNA and pharmacy tech license has given me real-world insight into what health care entails compared to those who have only gotten textbook experience. Real-world experiences and patients have changed my way of thinking about the healthcare field and made me realize that it requires strong, empathic individuals to represent such a vulnerable population. When I went to nursing facilities for clinical hours, I understood the importance of that patient-provider relationship which takes a lot of empathy! Knowing that I've seen what it takes, I'm confident that I'll succeed. Other individuals who have never seen the hardships within this profession may be in for a shock, making them uncertain about their future. Instead of being naive and scared of the unknown, I figured out what that unknown was, my future as an M.D. in anesthesiology. I will withhold my determination and dedication, allowing me to utilize this scholarship to its full capacity. My past endeavors have molded me into a motivated individual ready for my future.
Elijah's Helping Hand Scholarship Award
The gift of writing was not something I was granted with. Being able to cohesively organize my thoughts seemed like an impossible mission as I typed each new sentence. As my thoughts spiraled out of my mind like a spinning sprinkler, I noticed my writing had become discombobulated. "What are you trying to say" and "This doesn't make sense" became trademarks from my teachers on all of the papers I had written. Struggling with ADHD affected all of my writing, which suddenly reflected in the way I lived my life. Being so involved in the healthcare field by volunteering at Summerlin Hospital NICU/ ER made me realize the struggle that I had uncovered in the 3rd grade when I received my first 69% on a paper. Being tasked to grab six different formulas and three different brands of neonatal diapers was something so simple, but it crippled my ADHD brain. The second I walked away, I instantaneously forgot four out of the nine things I was asked to bring back. No matter what I tried at the naive age of 16, from "How to cure ADHD at home" on YouTube or even talking to my school nurse, I faced a barrier I could not break through. Months later, I was confronted with my writing challenges again during my AP Lang class. I was not going to make it through this class unless I put a leash on my ADHD. I began to see writing like a staircase. You must fully complete your last step before moving on. This structured way of thinking allowed me to cohesively write my four-page paper, as I received my first "A" on a long paper. Writing slowly turned into one of my outlets after I accepted that my fingers could only type out my thoughts so quickly. It forced me to slowly let out one idea before I could begin the next. This unexpected discovery was instrumental in my success as a student, philanthropist, and healthcare professional. I began to view my tasks in more sectioned lists. After embarking on writing and embracing my staircase theory, I began noticing it in all aspects of my life. Especially while gaining clinical experience at the nursing home, I was tasked with fetching items once again. My worst nightmare had come true again as I turned beet red when I remembered the last time this happened. As I took one deep breath, I turned that list into a cohesive staircase. Each stair was a word as I created the acronym She Read Cool Books Today, Sheets, Rash Cream, Briefs, and Towels. As I completed each step, I was on to the next item. My newly learned ability to cohesively write showed forth in all aspects of my life. Discovering a way to think more cohesively has allowed me to feel more confident in accomplishing my goal of becoming an anesthesiologist. I've accomplished goals I would have never imagined by following this step-by-step process to reach my hierarchy of success.
David Hinsdale Memorial Scholarship
Being an inherent advocate, I am determined to be a leader and make permanent changes. Throughout the past 17 years, I have curated a devotion, creating a fire in me to pursue a career in the medical field by becoming a doctor. Volunteering every week at Summerlin Hospital NICU or ER, graduating with my CNA and pharmacy tech license, running my own non-profit, and indulging in 500+ hours of community service in the past three years has furthered my plan to continue my philanthropic work. Indulging in my philanthropic work is not something it extrinsically motivates me is an intrinsic fire that I love. Considering I want to be in the medical field, I plan on being in education for much longer while I continue representing a vulnerable population. I want to preserve the trust of those going through such a vulnerable time. Volunteering at the hospital has given me insight into the planning of running a hospital and the need for more medical professionals. Although it is tedious work, it is essential for the functioning of society. During my long educational journey, my dream is to go to underdeveloped countries to administer health care to many different communities. Already having a deepened understanding of the issues of poverty within society and the unmet needs individuals are encountering, I wish to keep fighting for those with limited voices despite their economic situation. Being President and running my own non-profit organization, Project Dot which provides feminine hygiene kits to low-income women, transmen, and non-binary individuals, I plan to stay involved until period poverty is eliminated. I am determined to make the availability of feminine hygiene products a permanent change considering it is a gender equity issue and a problem with funding. Every day new opportunities are being made for menstruating individuals as the community slowly evolves. Many states have already cut their “tampon tax” which eliminates taxes on all feminine hygiene products. That alone reduced the rates exponentially of those enduring period poverty. The other twenty-two states in our country are still not interested in reducing this pressing issue by keeping their tax in law. There are realistic solutions such as removing the tax on feminine products and eventually having federal agencies cover those products. Furthermore, as I continue to run my own non-profit and partake in philanthropic activities, I will continuously partake in health-related philanthropy opportunities in the future. I want to go to college to become a healthcare professional, but I also want to expand my knowledge, become more culturally aware, and continue my philanthropic work. Throughout my educational journey, I will be exposed to new opportunities to benefit our community, making me a powerful leader. Educating and becoming more educated on societal issues is one of the most powerful ways to incite change. I will continue to be involved in my community far into the future because I know I am a strong, dedicated leader that will not stop until changes are made.
Disney Super Fan Scholarship
Disney is a company that has been around for over 90 years and has brought joy to people of all ages all over the world. Their movies, theme parks, and merchandise are all beloved by many. But what is it about Disney that makes it so special? My favorite thing about Disney is the sense of magic and wonder that it creates. When I watch a Disney movie, I feel like I'm transported to another world, a world where anything is possible. The characters are always so brave and kind, and the stories are always so inspiring. Disney movies always make me feel happy and hopeful, and I think that's something that everyone can appreciate. In addition to the movies, Disney theme parks are also a great source of magic and wonder. When I go to a Disney park, I feel like I'm stepping into a dream. The rides are always so exciting, and the characters are always so friendly. I love meeting all of my favorite Disney characters and seeing them come to life. Disney parks are also a great place to meet new people and make memories that will last a lifetime. Finally, Disney merchandise is another great way to experience the magic of Disney. I love collecting Disney toys, clothes, and accessories. It's always fun to find new Disney items, and it always makes me happy to see them around my house. Disney merchandise is a great way to bring a little bit of magic into my everyday life. Overall, Disney is a company that brings joy to people of all ages all over the world. Their movies, theme parks, and merchandise are all beloved by many. But what is it about Disney that makes it so special? For me, it's the sense of magic and wonder that it creates. Disney movies, theme parks, and merchandise always make me feel happy and hopeful, and I think that's something that everyone can appreciate. Disney has always been a part of my life. I grew up watching Disney movies and going to Disney theme parks. I have so many fond memories of those experiences. Disney has always been a place where I can escape from reality and just be a kid. It's a place where I can believe in magic and wonder. Disney has also taught me a lot about life. It has taught me the importance of family, friendship, and following your dreams. It has also taught me the importance of being kind and compassionate. Disney has made me a better person, and I am so grateful for that. I am so glad that Disney is a part of my life. It is a company that brings joy to so many people. I am proud to be a Disney fan.
Healthy Eating Scholarship
Eating healthy is important for everyone, but it can be especially important for people with mental health conditions. When you eat healthy foods, you give your body the nutrients it needs to function properly. This can help improve your mood, energy levels, and overall well-being. There are many different ways to eat healthy. Some people find it helpful to follow a specific diet, such as the Mediterranean diet or the Paleo diet. Others prefer to focus on eating whole, unprocessed foods. There is no one right way to eat healthy, so find what works best for you and stick with it. If you are struggling to eat healthy, there are a few things you can do to make it easier. First, make sure you have healthy foods available at all times. This means keeping fruits, vegetables, and whole grains on hand. Second, cook at home more often. This way, you can control what goes into your food. Third, find healthy snacks that you enjoy. This will make it less likely that you will reach for unhealthy snacks. Eating healthy is an important part of taking care of your mental health. When you eat healthy foods, you give your body the nutrients it needs to function properly. This can help improve your mood, energy levels, and overall well-being. If you are struggling to eat healthy, there are a few things you can do to make it easier. First, make sure you have healthy foods available at all times. Second, cook at home more often. Third, find healthy snacks that you enjoy. When I practice healthy eating habits I notice that I am less stressed, my hair and nails are stronger, my skin is clearer and I am a healthier weight. I also find that eating healthy helps me to sleep better and have more focus. I used to have trouble sleeping through the night, but since I started eating healthier, I've been able to sleep much better and concentrate on work and home. I have more energy and feel more positive overall. Overall, eating healthy has a positive impact on my physical and mental health. I feel better when I eat healthy, and I have more energy to do the things I enjoy. If you are looking for ways to improve your health, I encourage you to focus on eating healthy. It is one of the best things you can do for your body and mind.
DRIVE an IMPACT Today Scholarship
Standing shakily in front of the city council requesting money for such a stigmatized subject, I realized this was my last hope. Will this be the moment that I let down hundreds of Southern Nevada residents because of a problem with funding? My nerves overwhelmed me, the pressure of realizing that without this grant Project Dot, the non-profit I run supplying feminine hygiene products to women, trans-men, and non-binary individuals, so many were going to suffer period poverty again. I’d never spoken in front of a huge crowd, let alone this grant being the last resort. I stood there in shambles. But What was there to lose? Then a courageous spirit kicked in. I realized as I voiced my strong, empowering voice to everyone in City Hall, they also felt the importance of Project Dot. The government couldn’t even fix this issue in Nevada as coffee is believed to be a necessity under Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), but pads and tampons aren’t. Knowing I was up against such a tedious fight, there was extreme pressure. But I learned something new that day– I put on a face. No one could feel my heart rapidly beating, that horrible nauseous feeling, my clammy palms, and just wanting to give up. But, as I started speaking about something I’m so passionate about, those feelings dissipated. Stepping into this situation after COVID, I had no mask to hide my feelings. I grew from a naive 14-year-old to now a 16-year-old speaking publicly for one of the most vulnerable populations in Southern Nevada. Walking into the City Council with all my past failures bared so much weight on my chest. All this background knowledge, no one knew, except for me and my busy mind. But once I shifted that mindset, I was in perfect shape. Their intrigued faces made me realize that this grant was going to be different, and it was as I had been notified, I secured the $10,000 grant from the Wynn Foundation. It was the same message as all the other times but instead, I was a confident young woman voicing my truth to help others. That day taught me my perseverance will go with me to successfully become an M.D. The experience taught me the importance of determination. In addition to determination, I have also demonstrated the following qualities: Respect: I believe in treating everyone with respect, regardless of their background or beliefs. I have always tried to be a good listener and to understand the perspectives of others. Innovation: I am always looking for new and better ways to do things. I am not afraid to take risks and try new things. Versatility: I can adapt to change and work in different environments. I am also able to learn new things quickly. Equality: I believe that everyone is equal and should be treated with dignity and respect. I have always stood up for what I believe in, even when it has been difficult. Nurture: I believe in helping others and in making the world a better place. I have volunteered my time and money to help those in need. I am proud of the person I have become. I have overcome many obstacles and have learned many valuable lessons along the way. I am confident that I will continue to grow and learn in the years to come.
Dr. Alexanderia K. Lane Memorial Scholarship
Screaming, encapsulated in the middle of 80,000 people holding an unconscious, limp woman while everyone just stared. This scene unfolded at Day ‘n Vegas. The lights had turned black; the spectators jolted forward in a singular motion. Everyone is packed in, hungry for air. The music is inaudible as screams from the audience pierce through the air. Unable to move. As people fall all around me, crippled in fear, I decide to not allow despair inside my body. Forging my way forward through a sea of festival goers to avoid being trampled, I nearly make it to the gates to safety. Until… My attention is directed to a woman swaying lethargically, No one is doing anything. Instinctively, I grab her to make sure she’s OK. As I hold her, she faints in my arms. Suddenly, I am on autopilot. Looking up at a giant circle of gawkers that is formed around us, I scream for anyone around to help. Surrounded by blank stares I realize I am talking to completely dissociated people– the only ones aware of the gravity of the situation. I had forgotten I had two friends clinging to me; they had followed me from the stage. Grab a bottle of water from my friend’s hand. I am on the ground now, still holding the unconscious woman and splashing water on her face and neck. Seconds feel like hours, but she regains consciousness. I am screaming for people to help once more. I am 5’5 and weigh 110 lbs.: Why am I the only one doing something? Not even the six’3'' male lookie-loo flinch to help. Finally, she is aware enough to stand. Leaning on me the entire way to the gate, I handed her off to a security guard to be taken to the nurse’s station. She thanked me. Had I not done anything, she may have been trampled like the ten victims who died the weekend before at the Astro World Festival. Understanding the bystander effect from AP Psychology, I learned that in a dire situation, the more people present, the less likely individuals are to intervene. Diffused responsibility. Advocating for myself (such as removing myself from the crowd) is an achievement, but selfishly motivated. Yet, the moment I begin speaking up for others or countering social norms, that courage is rare. Being a leader is something a lot of people claim to be but being philanthropic or doing a few helpful things in the community is not true leadership. Choosing leadership and finding your voice when everyone is against you is the self-actualization that most people never reach. Leadership is not about being in charge, it is about taking care of others in your charge. It is about saying what you mean and not saying what it means. It is about doing the right thing, not merely being right. It was long before the previous incident that I realized my power and my voice were invaluable. As President of Project Dot, I advocate for low-income women and transmen, providing feminine hygiene products in compassionate and discreet ways. I needed to make changes because no one else would. Seeing from the perspective of those in need as well as those who are more comfortable watching from the sidelines is vastly important. Occasionally, I change someone’s life or someone’s perspective. Reaching the top of the hierarchy of self-actualization, I am speaking my mind and defying social norms. I am compelled to make calls to action and to be a leader in a sea of followers.
Liv For The Future Scholarship
Standing shakily in front of the city council, I could feel my clammy hands soaked in my notecard. I was pleading for funding for the non-profit I run, Project Dot, so that I could continue to provide women, trans-men, and non-binary individuals with feminine hygiene products. I was not new to the philanthropy scene as I have grasped an understanding of the importance of community service. Through my 600+ volunteering hours at a variety of locations, including the Summerlin Hospital Medical Center Neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and Emergency Room, the National Charity League, HOSA-Future Health Professionals, and The National Honor Society, I knew how much these marginalized communities needed support. As I began speaking to the board about my need for support, I felt confident that my pitch would be successful. I had done my research and prepared well, and I knew that my proposal was sound. I also felt that the board members were receptive to my ideas, and I was excited to share my vision with them. I was overjoyed when I received the $10,000 grant from the Wynn Foundation. This funding will allow me to continue providing feminine hygiene products to thousands of people across Southern Nevada who will no longer have to choose between putting food on the table and buying basic hygiene necessities. This grant will make a real difference in the lives of so many people, and I am so grateful for the support of the Wynn Foundation. Leading and managing a non-profit organization has given me a unique perspective on community outreach. The abundance of charities I have worked with, from Catholic Charities, Salvation Army, Spread the Word, Purple Strides, and more, never captured the raw events that occur. Being 16 years old and advocating for such a widespread community that needed support changed my idea of approaching situations. Finding my strength and learning that I am an inherent advocate was a skill I have vowed to continue using. The need for people to speak up for these groups is imperative or else change will not be made. If I had not continued my determination to ensure that individuals were not facing period poverty and gender inequality, many would be in a seriously horrific situation, such as using socks or rags to control their menstrual cycle. Without my advocacy, so many did not know that coffee is deemed a necessity under The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or "SNAP," in Southern Nevada, but pads and tampons are not. My outreach to over 26 local charities is ongoing, and I know the fight is not yet over. My involvement in the community has made me realize that this is not just something I do for myself; I genuinely want to cultivate a stronger, more cohesive society for everyone within. Being a leader in a sea of followers is a role I attempt to perpetually uphold. Not only have I learned how to voice my own opinion, but also how to listen to and incorporate other collaborators’ opinions while accepting them. My ability to prevail through the many people who told me I could not achieve my goals has made me the strong leader I am today. As I lead my volunteer group of over 300 people, I am committed to making permanent positive changes in society.
VNutrition & Wellness’ Annual LGBTQ+ Vitality Scholarship
I plan to use my education to make a positive impact on society by becoming a doctor and working in the field of anesthesiology. I believe that everyone deserves access to quality healthcare, and I want to use my skills and knowledge to help people who are in need. I have always been interested in science and medicine. When I was in high school, I took every opportunity to learn more about these subjects. I participated in science fairs, volunteered at local hospitals, and took AP Biology and AP Chemistry. I also graduated with a 4.0 GPA and a 5.50 weighted GPA. In addition to my academic achievements, I have also been involved in many extracurricular activities. I am the founder and president of my school's non-profit organization, Project Dot, which provides menstrual hygiene products to low-income women and girls. I am also a weekly volunteer at the Summerlin Hospital Medical Center, where I work in the NICU and at the front desk. My experiences with Project Dot and Summerlin Hospital Medical Center have solidified my desire to become a doctor. I have seen firsthand the impact that healthcare can have on people's lives. I have also learned the importance of empathy, compassion, and teamwork in the healthcare field. I am confident that I have the skills and qualities necessary to succeed in medical school and beyond. I am a hard worker, and I am always willing to learn new things. I am also a good communicator, and I can build rapport with people from all walks of life. In addition to my academic and extracurricular achievements, I am also a driven and ambitious individual. I am constantly looking for ways to improve myself and make a difference in the world. I believe that my education will give me the tools I need to achieve my goals and make a positive impact on society. I am excited to start my journey to becoming a doctor. I know that it will be challenging, but I am confident that I will succeed. I am particularly interested in the field of anesthesiology because I believe it is a unique and challenging specialty. Anesthesiologists are responsible for providing safe and effective anesthesia for a variety of surgical procedures. They also play a vital role in the management of pain and critical care. I am drawn to the challenge of providing anesthesia for complex surgical procedures. I am also interested in the opportunity to work with patients in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and operating rooms. I believe that my skills and qualities make me a good fit for the field of anesthesiology. I am a hard worker and I am always willing to learn new things. I am also a good communicator and I can build rapport with people from all walks of life. I am confident that I will be a successful doctor. I am excited to start my journey to becoming a doctor and I am confident that I will make a positive impact on society.
Scholarship Institute’s Annual Women’s Leadership Scholarship
Standing shakily in front of the city council, I could feel my clammy hands soaked in my notecard. I was pleading for funding for the non-profit I run, Project Dot, so that I could continue to provide women, trans-men, and non-binary individuals with feminine hygiene products. I was not new to the philanthropy scene as I have grasped an understanding of the importance of community service. Through my 600+ volunteering hours at a variety of locations, including the Summerlin Hospital Medical Center Neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and Emergency Room, the National Charity League, HOSA-Future Health Professionals, and The National Honor Society, I knew how much these marginalized communities needed support. As I began speaking to the board about my need for support, I felt confident that my pitch would be successful. I had done my research and prepared well, and I knew that my proposal was sound. I also felt that the board members were receptive to my ideas, and I was excited to share my vision with them. I was overjoyed when I received the $10,000 grant from the Wynn Foundation. This funding will allow me to continue providing feminine hygiene products to thousands of people across Southern Nevada who will no longer have to choose between putting food on the table and buying basic hygiene necessities. This grant will make a real difference in the lives of so many people, and I am so grateful for the support of the Wynn Foundation. Leading and managing a non-profit organization has given me a unique perspective on community outreach. The abundance of charities I have worked with, from Catholic Charities, Salvation Army, Spread the Word, Purple Strides, and more, never captured the raw events that occur. Being 16 years old and advocating for such a widespread community that needed support changed my idea of approaching situations. Finding my strength and learning that I am an inherent advocate was a skill I have vowed to continue using. The need for people to speak up for these groups is imperative or else change will not be made. If I had not continued my determination to ensure that individuals were not facing period poverty and gender inequality, many would be in a seriously horrific situation, such as using socks or rags to control their menstrual cycle. Without my advocacy, so many did not know that coffee is deemed a necessity under The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or "SNAP," in Southern Nevada, but pads and tampons are not. My outreach to over 26 local charities is ongoing, and I know the fight is not yet over. My involvement in the community has made me realize that this is not just something I do for myself; I genuinely want to cultivate a stronger, more cohesive society for everyone within. Being a leader in a sea of followers is a role I attempt to perpetually uphold. Not only have I learned how to voice my own opinion, but also how to listen to and incorporate other collaborators’ opinions while accepting them. My ability to prevail through the many people who told me I could not achieve my goals has made me the strong leader I am today. As I lead my volunteer group of over 300 people, I am committed to making permanent positive changes in society.
Strong Leaders of Tomorrow Scholarship
Standing shakily in front of the city council, I could feel my clammy hands soaked in my notecard. I was pleading for funding for the non-profit I run, Project Dot, so that I could continue to provide women, trans-men, and non-binary individuals with feminine hygiene products. I was not new to the philanthropy scene as I have grasped an understanding of the importance of community service. Through my 600+ volunteering hours at a variety of locations, including the Summerlin Hospital Medical Center Neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and ER, the National Charity League, HOSA-Future Health Professionals, and even the National Honor Society, I knew how much these marginalized communities needed support. As I began speaking to the board about my need for support, I realized my pitch would be successful this time. After I was notified that I had secured a $10,000 grant from the Wynn Foundation, I felt so much relief. I was going to be able to continue to provide feminine hygiene products for thousands of people across Southern Nevada to ensure that they did not have to decide whether to put food on the table or buy basic hygiene necessities. Being president and running the non-profit has given me a unique perspective on community outreach. The abundance of charities I have worked with, from Catholic Charities, Salvation Army, Spread the Word, Purple Strides, and more, never captured the raw events that occur. Being 16 years old and advocating for such a widespread community that needed support changed my idea of approaching situations. Finding my strength and learning that I am an inherent advocate was a skill I have vowed to continue using. The need for people to speak up for these groups is imperative or else change will not be made. If I had not continued my determination to ensure that individuals were not facing period poverty and gender inequality, many would be in a seriously horrific situation, such as using socks or rags to control their menstrual cycle. Without my advocacy, so many did not know that coffee is deemed a necessity under SNAP in Southern Nevada, but pads and tampons are not. As I continue to expand my outreach to over 26+ local charities, the fight is not yet over. Involving myself in the community made me realize that it is not an intrinsically motivated act for me. I genuinely want to cultivate a stronger, more cohesive society for everyone within. Being a leader in a sea of followers is a role I attempt to perpetually uphold. Not only have I learned how to voice my own opinion, but also how to listen to and incorporate other collaborators’ opinions while accepting them. Curating my ability to prevail through all the people who told me I could not achieve my goals fueled me into such a strong leader today. As I lead my volunteer group of over 300+, I want to keep making permanent positive changes in society.
Bright Lights Scholarship
I am most connected to my role in running Project Dot and being the non-profit’s President. Providing feminine hygiene kits to women, non-binary, and transmen. Tackling the stigma of gender inequality and providing hygiene items to 25+ local charities across Southern Nevada has driven me to not stop until changes are made about this under-spoken topic. Nevada continues to ignore the prevalence of period poverty, considering SNAP will cover coffee because it is “essential”, but pads and tampons aren’t. Watching the receivers of Project Dots kits express their gratuity simply because they were going to have to make the decision to either put food on the table for their families or buy feminine hygiene products shows the corruption in our society. Taking part in Project Dot has inspired me so much that I have doubled the number of kits distributed to about 4,000 a year and increased connections to advocate for the injustices of period poverty. Gender inequality and ending the stigma of period poverty is what I am fighting to change. Being a strong advocate for such a taboo subject has taught me how to lead others even when everyone is against you. Using my voice to help eliminate social stigmas in my community has not been easy, but with my background experience and hard learned lessons from leadership positions in the National Charity League I now have a powerful and purposeful ability to represent marginalized communities. While I noticed I was growing into a strong advocate, I was evolving into an educator as I continued to teach young youth leaders around me the importance of Project Dot’s mission. In turn, I inspired my peers to use their voices for issues that mattered to them while being their role model to incite a revolution of change. Not only have I become more knowledgeable in servant leadership, public speaking, networking, and community engagement, but I’ve been inspired to teach those around me skills that I have learned as well. Not all my work has been easy, my confidence has often been shot down by the failures of not securing grants or dealing with disputes among members. But my strong drive and deeply held motivation for Project Dot’s work has allowed me to get back up and keep going and inspire those around me not to give up easily either. Creating such a like-minded, inclusive community where everyone has a chance to share their story to help improve others’ livelihoods is what has connected me so much to Project Dot, making it undoubtedly my most meaningful commitment outside of the classroom. Running Project Dot has clearly taught me how to be a strong leader and how to persevere through the difficulties we often face in life. This will be one of the most influential experiences that will show in my future as I continue to work to become an anesthesiologist which is not an easy task; it takes a lot of dedication that I have.
Iftikhar Kamil Madni Science and Engineering Memorial Scholarship
Finishing my fourth year of public health science coursework and graduating high school with my CNA and Pharmacy Tech license has drawn me to becoming an M.D. I am an inherent advocate, and I want to ensure I spend my life advocating for those in need of medical care and delivering the best possible support, particularly to those with healthcare disparity. From my previous love of philanthropic work, working in the medical field was somewhere I noticed my philanthropic heart being allured. My involvement in real-life experiences within the healthcare field has ensured me that I want to be an anesthesiologist. Making an impact on future generations and our current communities is really what drives me to be a medical professional. I’m intrigued by the opportunity to intern around the world and to learn at top facilities nearby to teach me invaluable skills. Getting a degree in Medical Sciences is not strictly about education, it also entails so many real-world connections and opportunities to make an impact on communities. Furthermore, the ability to partake in public health activities such as study abroad programs will deepen my knowledge and introduce me to diverse global issues currently unmet. Empathy-building experiences like these will allow me to open my heart and eyes to the problems I can impact as a medical professional. Especially being able to visit marginalized communities and improve the medical care that is delivered is something that I strive to accomplish with my education. Contributing to global experiences will strengthen my cultural adaptability which is vital in medicine as physicians serve all patients equitably. Being well-rounded will ensure that I help create more inclusive environments that are safer for everyone in the community when they feel that they can trust those who are providing for them medically. This is so important to me that I carry out this task because throughout history many have found it hard to trust healthcare providers due to previous actions and I want to help get rid of that stigma and create a trusting environment for those who are receiving care. Creating a positive environment and curating that patient-provider relationship is really what makes a difference in treatment and that is something I would ensure I accomplished. While obtaining my degree or even after there will be many research opportunities that I am interested in as well as finding mentors who will help me along my educational journey. Having the ability to partake in community-engaged research projects is something I want to experience as well. For instance, firsthand research opportunities like the Embryonic Signaling Pathways in Stomach Cancer are a field, as a women’s issues supporter, that I would be interested in contributing to. Specific research opportunities like the cancer field are really where I am interested in making a change with my medical degree. Making new discoveries that change the aspect of our world is another thing that I strive to do with my background in medicine. Overall, medical science offers the exact opportunities that would allow me to be a successful medical professional and to have a unique learning opportunity on the way to achieving that dream. Not only would getting this degree set me on the path to getting my M.D. and becoming an anesthesiologist but I would still be able to make major implications in society on my track to medical school. I will make positive changes for those underrepresented and for anyone who needs medical attention.
Ruth Hazel Scruggs King Scholarship
Finishing my fourth year of public health science coursework and graduating high school with my CNA and Pharmacy Tech license has drawn me to becoming an M.D. I am an inherent advocate, and I want to ensure I spend my life advocating for those in need of medical care and delivering the best possible support, particularly to those with healthcare disparity. From my previous love of philanthropic work, working in the medical field was somewhere I noticed my philanthropic heart being allured. My involvement in real-life experiences within the healthcare field has ensured me that I want to be an anesthesiologist. Making an impact on future generations and our current communities is really what drives me to be a medical professional. I’m intrigued by the opportunity to intern around the world and to learn at top facilities nearby to teach me invaluable skills. Getting a degree in Medical Sciences is not strictly about education, it also entails so many real-world connections and opportunities to make an impact on communities. Furthermore, the ability to partake in public health activities such as study abroad programs will deepen my knowledge and introduce me to diverse global issues currently unmet. Empathy-building experiences like these will allow me to open my heart and eyes to the problems I can impact as a medical professional. Especially being able to visit marginalized communities and improve the medical care that is delivered is something that I strive to accomplish with my education. Contributing to global experiences will strengthen my cultural adaptability which is vital in medicine as physicians serve all patients equitably. Being well-rounded will ensure that I help create more inclusive environments that are safer for everyone in the community when they feel that they can trust those who are providing for them medically. This is so important to me that I carry out this task because throughout history many have found it hard to trust healthcare providers due to previous actions and I want to help get rid of that stigma and create a trusting environment for those who are receiving care. Creating a positive environment and curating that patient-provider relationship is really what makes a difference in treatment and that is something I would ensure I accomplished. While obtaining my degree or even after there will be many research opportunities that I am interested in as well as finding mentors who will help me along my educational journey. Having the ability to partake in community-engaged research projects is something I want to experience as well. For instance, firsthand research opportunities like the Embryonic Signaling Pathways in Stomach Cancer are a field, as a women’s issues supporter, that I would be interested in contributing to. Specific research opportunities like the cancer field are really where I am interested in making a change with my medical degree. Making new discoveries that change the aspect of our world is another thing that I strive to do with my background in medicine. Overall, medical science offers the exact opportunities that would allow me to be a successful medical professional and to have a unique learning opportunity on the way to achieving that dream. Not only would getting this degree set me on the path to getting my M.D. and becoming an anesthesiologist but I would still be able to make major implications in society on my track to medical school. I will make positive changes for those underrepresented and for anyone who needs medical attention.
Jeannine Schroeder Women in Public Service Memorial Scholarship
In the 21st century, low-income women are still facing the issue of not having the availability of feminine hygiene products. Those menstruating individuals are forced to use socks, rags, or even toilet paper to attend school or work because of a natural human process. The issue of period poverty is not just about the unavailability of hygiene products. It is a pressing issue of Gender inequality, lack of education, and lack of empathy in our community. In Southern Nevada, the government covers coffee under SNAP, Nevada Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, however, pads and tampons are not covered. This unfortunate situation should not be occurring which is why I have become president and run Project Dot, a nonprofit providing feminine hygiene products to low-income women, non-binary, and transmen. Due to my 600+ hours of philanthropic work through 20+ local charities, including Summerlin Hills Hospital, I am not new to the poverty-stricken issues in our community. I wish to keep fighting for those with limited voices. Watching the receivers of Project Dots kits express their gratuity simply because they were going to have to decide to either put food on the table for their families or buy feminine hygiene products shows the corruption in our society, and I have been unafraid to expose the truth about such a taboo subject. Involvement in Project Dot has inspired me so much that I have doubled the number of kits distributed to about 4,000 a year and increased connections to 25+ local charities to advocate for the injustices of period poverty. Gender inequality and ending the stigma of period poverty are what I am fighting to change and will continue to fight. This battle has not been easy as I have been shot down many times while applying for grants to fund my project but prevailing through this and securing $10k grants has allowed me to continue my revolution of change. Standing in front of the city council or even the Wynn Foundation was a test of my bravery, but my determination to make permanent changes allowed me to acquire funding for my project. I have lessened this issue immensely– but it is not done yet. My cultivated education about period poverty has made me a confident leader. Project Dot has motivated me to continue the fight for this issue around inclusion, service, and social justice. The lack of education on this subject has led members of our community to assume this issue is in underdeveloped countries, not in America, stimulating the social stigma surrounding period poverty. As I continue to lead over 300 volunteers, secure grants, advocate, and educate, the future of society will be filled with change for such a marginalized community. Society is letting down the future generation of women by not increasing access to feminine hygiene products. I will continue to keep fighting for the future of our society through all my philanthropic endeavors because I am an inherent advocate determined to be a leader in society and make permanent changes.
Robert F. Lawson Fund for Careers that Care
Being an inherent advocate, I am determined to be a leader and make permanent changes. Throughout the past 17 years, I have curated a devotion, creating a fire in me to pursue a career in the medical field by becoming a doctor. Volunteering every week at Summerlin Hospital NICU or ER, graduating with my CNA and pharmacy tech license, running my own non-profit, and indulging in 500+ hours of community service in the past three years has furthered my plan to continue my philanthropic work. Indulging in my philanthropic work is not something it extrinsically motivates me is an intrinsic fire that I love. Considering I want to be in the medical field, I plan on being in education for much longer while I continue representing a vulnerable population. I want to preserve the trust of those going through such a vulnerable time. Volunteering at the hospital has given me insight into the planning of running a hospital and the need for more medical professionals. Although it is tedious work, it is essential for the functioning of society. During my long educational journey, my dream is to go to underdeveloped countries to administer health care to many different communities. Already having a deepened understanding of the issues of poverty within society and the unmet needs individuals are encountering, I wish to keep fighting for those with limited voices despite their economic situation. Being President and running my own non-profit organization, Project Dot which provides feminine hygiene kits to low-income women, transmen, and non-binary individuals, I plan to stay involved until period poverty is eliminated. I am determined to make the availability of feminine hygiene products a permanent change considering it is a gender equity issue and a problem with funding. Every day new opportunities are being made for menstruating individuals as the community slowly evolves. Many states have already cut their “tampon tax” which eliminates taxes on all feminine hygiene products. That alone reduced the rates exponentially of those enduring period poverty. The other twenty-two states in our country are still not interested in reducing this pressing issue by keeping their tax in law. There are realistic solutions such as removing the tax on feminine products and eventually having federal agencies cover those products. Furthermore, as I continue to run my own non-profit and partake in philanthropic activities, I will continuously partake in health-related philanthropy opportunities in the future. I want to go to college to become a healthcare professional, but I also want to expand my knowledge, become more culturally aware, and continue my philanthropic work. Throughout my educational journey, I will be exposed to new opportunities to benefit our community, making me a powerful leader. Educating and becoming more educated on societal issues is one of the most powerful ways to incite change. I will continue to be involved in my community far into the future because I know I am a strong, dedicated leader that will not stop until changes are made.
Walking In Authority International Ministry Scholarship
Standing shakily in front of the city council, I could feel my clammy hands soaked in my notecard. I was pleading for funding for the non-profit I run, Project Dot, so that I could continue to provide women, transmen, and non-binary individuals with feminine hygiene products. I was not new to the philanthropy scene as I have grasped an understanding of the importance of community service. Through my 600+ volunteering hours at a variety of locations, including the Summerlin Hospital NICU and ER, National Charity League, HOSA, and even the National Honor Society, I knew how much these marginalized communities needed support. As I began speaking to the board about my need for support, I realized my pitch would be successful this time. After I was notified that I had secured a $10k grant from the Wynn Foundation, I felt so much relief. I was going to be able to continue to provide feminine hygiene products for thousands of people across Southern Nevada to ensure that they did not have to decide whether to put food on the table or buy basic hygiene necessities. Being president and running the non-profit has given me a unique perspective on community outreach. The abundance of charities I have worked with, from Catholic Charities, Salvation Army, Spread the Word, Purple Strides, and more, never captured the raw events that occur. Being 16 years old and advocating for such a widespread community that needed support changed my idea of approaching situations. Finding my strength and learning that I am an inherent advocate was a skill I have vowed to continue using. The need for people to speak up for these groups is imperative or else change will not be made. If I had not continued my determination to ensure that individuals were not facing period poverty and gender inequality, many would be in a seriously horrific situation, such as using socks or rags to control their menstrual cycle. Without my advocacy, so many did not know that coffee is deemed a necessity under SNAP in Southern Nevada, but pads and tampons are not. As I continue to expand my outreach to over 26+ local charities, the fight is not yet over. Involving myself in the community made me realize that it is not an intrinsically motivated act for me. I genuinely want to cultivate a stronger, more cohesive society for everyone within. Being a leader in a sea of followers is a role I attempt to perpetually uphold. Not only have I learned how to voice my own opinion, but also how to listen to and incorporate other collaborators’ opinions while accepting them. Curating my ability to prevail through all the people who told me I could not achieve my goals fueled me into such a strong leader today. As I lead my volunteer group of over 300+, I want to keep making permanent positive changes in society.
Jacob Daniel Dumas Memorial Jewish Scholarship
Finishing my 4th year of public health science coursework and graduating high school with my CNA and Pharmacy Tech license has drawn me to becoming an M.D. I am an inherent advocate, and I want to ensure I spend my life advocating for those in need of medical care and delivering the best possible support, particularly to those with healthcare disparity. From my previous love of philanthropic work, working in the medical field was somewhere I noticed my philanthropic heart being allured. My involvement in real-life experiences within the healthcare field has ensured me that I want to be an anesthesiologist. Making an impact on future generations and our current communities is really what drives me to be a medical professional. I’m intrigued by the opportunity to intern around the world and to learn at top facilities nearby to teach me invaluable skills. Getting a degree in Medical Sciences isn’t strictly about education, it also entails so many real-world connections and opportunities to make an impact on communities. Furthermore, the ability to partake in public health activities such as study abroad programs will deepen my knowledge and introduce me to diverse global issues currently unmet. Empathy-building experiences like these will allow me to open my heart and eyes to the problems I can impact as a medical professional. Especially being able to visit marginalized communities and improve the medical care that is delivered is something that I strive to accomplish with my education. Contributing to global experiences will strengthen my cultural adaptability which is vital in medicine as physicians serve all patients equitably. Being well-rounded will ensure that I help create more inclusive environments that are safer for everyone in the community when they feel that they can trust those who are providing for them medically. This is so important to me that I carry out this task because throughout history many have found it hard to trust healthcare providers due to previous actions and I want to help get rid of that stigma and create a trusting environment for those who are receiving care. Creating a positive environment and curating that patient-provider relationship is really what makes a difference in treatment and that is something I would ensure I accomplished. While obtaining my degree or even after there will be many research opportunities that I am interested in as well as finding mentors who will help me along my educational journey. Having the ability to partake in community-engaged research projects is something I want to experience as well. For instance, firsthand research opportunities like the Embryonic Signaling Pathways in Stomach Cancer are a field, as a women’s issues supporter, that I would be interested in contributing to. Specific research opportunities like the cancer field are really where I am interested in making a change with my medical degree. Making discoveries that change the aspect of our world is another thing that I strive to do with my background in medicine. Overall, medical science offers the exact opportunities that would allow me to be a successful medical professional and to have a unique learning opportunity on the way to achieving that dream. Not only would getting this degree set me on the path to getting my M.D. and becoming an anesthesiologist but I would still be able to make major implications in society on my track to medical school. I will make positive changes for those underrepresented and for anyone who needs medical attention.
Richard P. Mullen Memorial Scholarship
Finishing my 4th year of public health and science coursework and graduating high school with my CNA and Pharmacy Tech license has drawn me to becoming an M.D. Being an inherent advocate, I want to ensure that I spend my life advocating for those in need of medical care and delivering the best possible support, particularly to those with healthcare disparity. I have learned that health care is the backbone of society. Observing the vulnerability within patients and the connections each doctor had with their patients, I witnessed empathy-building experiences that undoubtedly make a difference in treatment. These close relationships opened my heart and eyes to the medical field. From my previous love of philanthropic work, working in the medical field was somewhere I noticed my philanthropic heart being allured. Volunteering at the hospital and caring for the screaming, shaking NAS babies, and comforting them, or going to the nursing home and caring for residents, I have learned that my impact will only increase as I continue my education. These real-life experiences within the healthcare field have ensured that I want to be an anesthesiologist. I have experienced the drastic difference between reading a textbook and actual encounter. Volunteering at the Summerlin Hospital NICU has given me insight into the logistics of running a hospital and the need for more medical professionals. Being at the hospital every week has further cultivated my interest in the medical field. Every person I encounter in the hospital makes my decision more definite to study medicine and it is essential for the function of society. Going to college to become a healthcare professional means I will expand my knowledge, but also become more culturally aware, and be able to continue my philanthropic work. Once I become a medical professional, I want to advocate for marginalized communities and be a leader in creating, or as close as we can get to a eutopic society. I am intrinsically motivated to become a medical professional, which I discovered while participating in clinical at the nursing home. Performing the duties of a nursing assistant has cultivated my understanding of every role in the medical field. My 600+ hours of community service in the past four years have shaped me into the empathetic, hard-working person I am today. This scholarship will help jumpstart my long journey, especially as I am in a very vulnerable time currently with my family's financial situation. It pains me to admit that I must fear the future of my education because of our hardships with money. Although my small contribution to my family's bills has helped slightly, there has been no extra money to help account for my future education. However, I know my extreme dedication to my future and want to pursue a better society for everyone, I will prevail through these hardships with the support of my community. This scholarship consideration is extremely appreciated so I can continue my journey of becoming a medical professional. I will become an M.D. and an anesthesiologist.
Mental Health Importance Scholarship
As I put in my earphones and the world finally goes silent, I feel a sigh of relief fly through my body. I cannot stop time, I cannot pause everything, but I can put in my earphones and the world finally goes silent. The only other time I can achieve this is when I am sleeping after a long day of either charity, school, or work. Ensuring that I stay healthy is exceedingly difficult when you throw in 7 hours of school with hours of homework (cheers to AP classes and passing skills for my CNA license). I would never change this for the world though, I love it. As I swing open the gym doors the stench of sour sweat flies at my face. This smell is so horrid but so relieving because I finally know these next 2 hours my mind turns off the outside world. Trying to go as often as possible I lift heavy weights and do cardio. I love it, the rush of adrenaline, the actual feeling of being healthy. It's a euphoric experience that feels so nice after a long day. As I drink my entire icy cold Hydro flask, I feel myself relaxing in this chaotic gym. It relieves my mind to be here. Making sure you have time for yourself is often a challenging task, but the gym is that outlet that I needed. It sets me on a path to reassure myself that I'm not just running home and cooking a Stouffer's frozen meal because that's all I have time for. I want to make the gym worth it, so I ensure that I eat my BBQ chicken and rice alongside my strawberry and pineapple bowl. Being busy is such a tedious task because those 24 hours in a day are simply not enough time, but you need to find a balance and make sure that you are taking care of yourself. The gym is a spiraling way to do this because not only do you want to work on your physical health, but you can also only do this by making sure you are eating the right things and drinking enough water. But it also lets you reflect on your mental health as it's an outlet you release stress, anxiety, and every other pushing thing that the world throws at you. It's finally a place where the world gives you a break. It's a place of relief as you push yourself to do 2 more reps or go 5 pounds heavier. It's a place where you control the limits and there's no pressing time clock for tasks that need to be completed. It’s the time when the world finally goes silent and it's YOUR time.
I Can Do Anything Scholarship
I will continue fighting for the future of our society through all my philanthropic endeavors because I am an inherent advocate determined to be a leader in society and make permanent changes which will lead me to my dream of being an anesthesiologist, which is not too far away from becoming a reality.
Maxwell Tuan Nguyen Memorial Scholarship
Finishing my fourth year of public health science coursework and graduating high school with my Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) and Pharmacy Tech license has curated a devotion, pursuing fire in me to pursue a career in the medical field to become a doctor. Being an inherent advocate, I am determined to be a leader in society and make permanent changes. I want to ensure that I spend my life advocating for those in need of medical care and delivering the best possible support, particularly to those with healthcare disparity. I have learned that health care is the backbone of society, as it is built on empathy and relationships. Observing the vulnerability within patients and the connections each doctor had with their patients, I have witnessed many empathy-building experiences. These close relationships opened my heart and eyes to the medical field. I’m intrigued by the opportunity to intern around the world and to learn at top facilities nearby to teach me invaluable skills. Furthermore, the ability to partake in public health activities such as study abroad programs will deepen my knowledge and introduce me to diverse global issues currently unmet. Empathy-building experiences like these will allow me to open my heart and eyes to the problems I can impact as a medical professional. Contributing to global experiences will strengthen my cultural adaptability which is vital in medicine as physicians serve all patients equitably. Having the ability to partake in community-engaged research projects is something I want to experience as well. Throughout my many years in education and my future career, I hope to improve the lives of everyone seeking medical care. I want to preserve the trust of those going through such a vulnerable time. Volunteering at the hospital has given me insight into the logistics of running a hospital and the need for more medical professionals. Although it’s tedious work, it’s essential for the function of society. Going into the medical field entails much more schooling, so during this time, my dream is to go to underdeveloped countries to administer health care to many different communities. Already have a deepened understanding of the issues of poverty that lie within society and the unmet needs individuals are encountering, I wish to keep fighting for those with limited voices despite their economic situation. Furthermore, as I continue to run my own non-profit and partake in philanthropic activities, I will continuously partake in health-related philanthropy opportunities at my university. I want to go to college to become a healthcare professional, but I also want to expand my knowledge, become more culturally aware, and continue my philanthropic work. Overall, starting my education track for the healthcare field offers the exact opportunities that would allow me to be a successful medical professional and to have a unique learning opportunity on the way to achieving that dream. Within the past couple of years, we have all seen the hardships that medical professionals have been facing with the grueling pressure and my goal is to help ease at least a little bit of that by being a medical professional nearby. Finally obtaining my M.D. will lead me to my dream of being an anesthesiologist, which is not too far from becoming a reality.
Deborah Thomas Scholarship Award
Finishing my fourth year of public health science coursework and graduating high school with my CNA and Pharmacy Tech license has drawn me down the path of becoming an M.D. I am an inherent advocate and want to ensure that I spend my life advocating for those in need of medical care and delivering the best possible support, particularly to those with healthcare disparity. I have learned that health care is the backbone of society, as it is built on empathy and relationships. Observing the vulnerability within patients and the connections each doctor had with their patients, I have witnessed many empathy-building experiences. These close relationships opened my heart and eyes to the medical field. Furthermore, I have learned medicine is a completely different realm than conventional jobs. Healthcare entails a team where everyone plays a significant role. From my previous love of philanthropic work, working in the medical field was somewhere I noticed my philanthropic heart being attracted. From spending over 280 hours at Summerlin Hospital, my love for being an eventual anesthesiologist has flourished. Being a leader and making changes in my community has not always been easy for me. The first time I volunteered in the NICU at Summerlin Hospital, the silence was nerve-racking. Any movement I made, I could hear the crinkling of my neon blue, volunteer hospital coat. But I made myself speak to the nurses. As I put my shaking, clammy hands down to my side, I confidently introduced myself and started conversations. These small moments led to the nurses trusting me, calling me back and forth to all their crying babies when none of the other volunteers tried. In this minor role right now of being a volunteer and caring for the screaming, shaking NAS babies, and comforting them, I have learned that my impact will only increase as I continue my education. This experience further attracted me to becoming a medical professional in a field where people may feel intimidated to speak, so I can help support patients or co-workers. Volunteering at the hospital has given me insight into the coordination of running a hospital and the need for more medical professionals. Although it is tedious work, it is essential for the function of society. I want to create a positive environment and curate that patient-provider relationship to influence treatment. Going into the medical field entails much more schooling, so during my schooling, my dream is to go to a third-world country to administer health care to many different communities. Already have a deepened understanding of the issues of poverty that lie within society and the unmet needs individuals are encountering, I wish to keep fighting for those with limited voices. Furthermore, as I continue to run my own non-profit and partake in philanthropic activities I will continuously partake in health-related philanthropy opportunities at my university. I want to go to college to become a healthcare professional, but I also want to expand my knowledge, become more culturally aware, and continue my philanthropic work.
Career Search Scholarship
Finishing my fourth year of public health science coursework and graduating high school with my Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) and Pharmacy Tech license has drawn me to becoming an M.D. I am an inherent advocate, and I want to ensure I spend my life advocating for those in need of medical care and delivering the best possible support, particularly to those with healthcare disparity. I have learned that health care is the backbone of society. Observing the vulnerability within patients and the connections each doctor had with their patients, I witnessed empathy-building experiences that make a difference in treatment. These close relationships opened my heart and eyes to the medical field. From my previous love of philanthropic work, working in the medical field was somewhere I noticed my philanthropic heart being allured. Even in my minor role now as a volunteer, I care for the screaming, shaking Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS) babies. I have learned that my impact will only increase as I continue my education. From the moment I walked into the nursing facility for my nursing program, I felt a feeling of belonging. As I worked closely with different CNAs, I realized the frequency of ignoring patients' rights and blatant abuse. Being a CNA in training, I felt inferior, so I was afraid to speak up for myself, knowing that students are typically ignored. However, I couldn’t ignore this. I spoke up, and when I did this, I was told this CNA had many warnings already, and without my bravery, another resident could have been seriously injured. Experiencing this made me realize why I am so determined to be a medical professional. No matter my feeling of inferiority, I will always advocate for patients. My involvement in real-life experiences within the healthcare field has ensured me that I want to be an anesthesiologist. I have experienced the drastic difference between reading a textbook and actual encounters. Volunteering at the hospital's Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) has given me much insight into the coordination of running a hospital and the need for more medical professionals. Being at the hospital every week has further cultivated my interest in the medical field. Every person I encounter in the hospital makes my decision more definite to study medicine. Having the ability to walk into a facility to help patients is something that I look forward to every single Wednesday when I volunteer. Even though it is tedious work, it is essential for the function of society. Going to college to become a healthcare professional means I will expand my knowledge, but also become more culturally aware, and be able to continue my philanthropic work. After my encounters in the hospital and the nursing facility, I know I want to have a career in the medical field. As for fulfillment, all I want from a potential career in medicine is to give more than I take and to learn some lessons along the way - I will become an M.D. and an anesthesiologist. I don’t long to be doing anything else!
Jean Antoine Joas Scholarship
Being an inherent advocate, I am determined to be a leader and make permanent changes. Throughout the past 17 years, I have curated a devotion, creating a fire in me to pursue a career in the medical field by becoming a doctor. Volunteering every week at Summerlin Hospital NICU or ER, graduating with my CNA and pharmacy tech license, running my own non-profit, and indulging in 500+ hours of community service in the past three years has furthered my plan to continue my philanthropic work. Indulging in my philanthropic work is not something it extrinsically motivates me is an intrinsic fire that I love. Considering I want to be in the medical field, I plan on being in education for much longer while I continue representing a vulnerable population. I want to preserve the trust of those going through such a vulnerable time. Volunteering at the hospital has given me insight into the planning of running a hospital and the need for more medical professionals. Although it is tedious work, it is essential for the functioning of society. During my long educational journey, my dream is to go to underdeveloped countries to administer health care to many different communities. Already having a deepened understanding of the issues of poverty within society and the unmet needs individuals are encountering, I wish to keep fighting for those with limited voices despite their economic situation. Being President and running my own non-profit organization, Project Dot which provides feminine hygiene kits to low-income women, transmen, and non-binary individuals, I plan to stay involved until period poverty is eliminated. I am determined to make the availability of feminine hygiene products a permanent change considering it is a gender equity issue and a problem with funding. Every day new opportunities are being made for menstruating individuals as the community slowly evolves. Many states have already cut their “tampon tax” which eliminates taxes on all feminine hygiene products. That alone reduced the rates exponentially of those enduring period poverty. The other twenty-two states in our country are still not interested in reducing this pressing issue by keeping their tax in law. There are realistic solutions such as removing the tax on feminine products and eventually having federal agencies cover those products. Furthermore, as I continue to run my own non-profit and partake in philanthropic activities, I will continuously partake in health-related philanthropy opportunities in the future. I want to go to college to become a healthcare professional, but I also want to expand my knowledge, become more culturally aware, and continue my philanthropic work. Throughout my educational journey, I will be exposed to new opportunities to benefit our community, making me a powerful leader. Educating and becoming more educated on societal issues is one of the most powerful ways to incite change. I will continue to be involved in my community far into the future because I know I am a strong, dedicated leader that will not stop until changes are made.
Wellness Warriors Scholarship
As I put in my earphones and the world finally goes silent, I feel a sigh of relief fly through my body. I cannot stop time, I cannot pause everything, but I can put in my earphones and the world finally goes silent. The only other time I can achieve this is when I am sleeping after a long day of either charity, school, or work. Ensuring that I stay healthy is exceedingly difficult when you throw in 7 hours of school with hours of homework (cheers to AP classes and passing skills for my CNA license). I would never change this for the world though, I love it. As I swing open the gym doors the stench of sour sweat flies at my face. This smell is so horrid but so relieving because I finally know these next 2 hours my mind turns off the outside world. Trying to go as often as possible I lift heavy weights and do cardio. I love it, the rush of adrenaline, the actual feeling of being healthy. It's a euphoric experience that feels so nice after a terribly long day. As I drink my entire icy cold Hydro flask, I feel myself relaxing in this chaotic gym. It relieves my mind to be here. Making sure you have time for yourself is often a challenging task, but the gym is that outlet that I needed. It sets me on a path to reassure myself that I'm not just running home and cooking a Stouffers frozen meal because that's all I have time for. I want to make the gym worth it, so I ensure that I eat my BBQ chicken and rice alongside my strawberry and pineapple bowl. Being busy is such a tedious task because those 24 hours in a day are simply not enough time, but you need to find a balance and make sure that you are taking care of yourself. The gym is a spiraling way to do this because not only do you want to work on your physical health, but you can also only do this by making sure you are eating the right things and drinking enough water. But it also lets you reflect on your mental health as it's an outlet you release stress, anxiety, and every other pushing thing that the world throws at you. It's finally a place where the world gives you a break. It's a place of relief as you push yourself to do two more reps or go five pounds heavier. It's a place where you control the limits and there's not a pressing time clock for tasks that need to be completed. It’s the time where the world finally goes silent and it's YOUR time.
Hilliard L. "Tack" Gibbs Jr. Memorial Scholarship
Working in Biomedical Sciences has always been where I’ve envisioned my future. I am an inherent advocate and I want to ensure I spend my life advocating for those in need of medical technology and delivering the best possible support to, particularly, those with minority health and health disparities. I have learned that Science is the greatest collective endeavor, as it is built on empathy and relationships, leads to significant discoveries, provides medicine to cure our diseases, alleviates aches and pains, improves health care, and ensures that patients receive the best care possible. Volunteering at the hospital in the Neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) has given me some insight into the planning of running a hospital and the need for more medical professionals. Being at the hospital every week in the Neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), ER, or even the front desk has further cultivated my interest in Science and the Medical Field. The opportunity for growth in Biomedical Sciences is a flourishing environment as technology is continuously changing how care is administered. Finishing my fourth year of public health science coursework and graduating high school with my CNA and Pharmacy Tech license has drawn me to work towards obtaining a degree in Biomedical Sciences. I am interested in Biomedical Sciences because not only does it provide a background in medicine, specifically using scientific research to improve human health, but it also provides a deeper education in communication skills and how to create healthier societies. All these embedded disciplines within Biomedical Sciences are everything that I am interested in, under one specific study. Furthermore, majoring in Biomedical Sciences is a great pathway into medical school. Contributing to global experiences will strengthen my cultural adaptability which is vital in research, medicine, and other areas of health care. Obtaining my M.D., being able to give back to our community and becoming a successful Biomedical Scientist are my goals post-graduation. This scholarship will help jumpstart my long journey, especially as I am in a very vulnerable time right now with my family's financial situation. It pains me to admit that I have fears about the future of my education because of our hardships with money. Although my small contribution to my family's bills has helped slightly, there has been no extra money to help account for my future education. However, I know my extreme dedication to my future and want to pursue a better society for everyone, I will prevail through these hardships with the support of my community. This scholarship consideration is extremely appreciated so I continue my journey of becoming a medical professional. I will become an M.D. and Biomedical Scientist. I will use the money to become a medical professional advocating for change in the community and making a difference.
Our Destiny Our Future Scholarship
Being an inherent advocate, I am determined to be a leader and make permanent changes. Throughout the past 17 years, I have curated a devotion, creating a fire in me to pursue a career in the medical field by becoming a doctor. Volunteering every week at Summerlin Hospital Neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) or ER, graduating with my Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) and pharmacy tech license, running my own non-profit, and indulging in 500+ hours of community service in the past three years has furthered my plan to continue my philanthropic work. Indulging in my philanthropic work is not something it extrinsically motivates me is an intrinsic fire that I love. Considering I want to be in the medical field, I plan on being in education for much longer while I continue representing a vulnerable population. I want to preserve the trust of those going through such a vulnerable time. Volunteering every week at the hospital has given me insight into the planning of running a hospital and the need for more medical professionals. Although it is tedious work, it is essential for the functioning of society. During my long educational journey, my dream is to go to underdeveloped countries to administer health care to many different communities. Already having a deepened understanding of the issues of poverty within society and the unmet needs individuals are encountering, I wish to keep fighting for those with limited voices despite their economic situation. Being President and running Project Dot a non-profit organization that provides feminine hygiene kits to low-income women, transmen, and non-binary individuals, I plan to stay involved until period poverty is eliminated. I am determined to make the availability of feminine hygiene products a permanent change considering it is a gender equity issue and a problem with funding. Every day new opportunities are being made for menstruating individuals as the community slowly evolves. Many states have already cut their “tampon tax” which eliminates taxes on all feminine hygiene products. That alone reduced the rates exponentially of those enduring period poverty. The other twenty-two states in our country are still not interested in reducing this pressing issue by keeping their tax in law. There are realistic solutions such as removing the tax on feminine products and eventually having federal agencies cover those products. Furthermore, as I continue to run my own non-profit and partake in philanthropic activities, I will continuously partake in health-related philanthropy opportunities in the future. I want to go to college to become a healthcare professional, but I also want to expand my knowledge, become more culturally aware, and continue my philanthropic work. Throughout my educational journey, I will be exposed to new opportunities to benefit our community, making me a powerful leader. Educating and becoming more educated on societal issues is one of the most powerful ways to incite change. Not only do I want to continue my volunteerism, but I also want to be a healthcare provider that makes a difference. I want to uphold a strong patient-provider relationship to support marginalized communities that are struggling. I know I am a strong, dedicated leader that will create a real, positive impact on the world!
“I Matter” Scholarship
Screaming, encapsulated in the middle of 80,000 people holding an unconscious, limp woman while everyone just stared. This scene unfolded at Day ‘n Vegas. The lights had turned black; the spectators jolted forward in a singular motion. Everyone is packed in, hungry for air. The music is inaudible as screams from the audience pierce through the air. Unable to move. As people fall all around me, crippled in fear, I decide to not allow despair inside my body. Forging my way forward through a sea of festival goers to avoid being trampled, I nearly make it to the gates to safety. Until… My attention is directed to a woman swaying lethargically, No one is doing anything. Instinctively, I grab her to make sure she’s OK. As I hold her, she faints in my arms. Suddenly, I am on autopilot. Looking up at a giant circle of gawkers that is formed around us, I scream for anyone around to help. Surrounded by blank stares I realize I am talking to completely dissociated people– the only ones aware of the gravity of the situation. I had forgotten I had two friends clinging to me; they had followed me from the stage. Grab a bottle of water from my friend’s hand. I am on the ground now, still holding the unconscious woman and splashing water on her face and neck. Seconds feel like hours, but she regains consciousness. I am screaming for people to help once more. I am 5’5 and weigh 110 lbs.: Why am I the only one doing something? Not even the six’3'' male lookie-loo flinch to help. Finally, she is aware enough to stand. Leaning on me the entire way to the gate, I handed her off to a security guard to be taken to the nurse’s station. She thanked me. Had I not done anything, she may have been trampled like the ten victims who died the weekend before at the Astro World Festival. Understanding the bystander effect from AP Psychology, I learned that in a dire situation, the more people present, the less likely individuals are to intervene. Diffused responsibility. Advocating for myself (such as removing myself from the crowd) is an achievement, but selfishly motivated. Yet, the moment I begin speaking up for others or countering social norms, that courage is rare. Being a leader is something a lot of people claim to be but being philanthropic or doing a few helpful things in the community is not true leadership. Choosing leadership and finding your voice when everyone is against you is the self-actualization that most people never reach. Leadership is not about being in charge, it is about taking care of others in your charge. It is about saying what you mean and not saying what it means. It is about doing the right thing, not merely being right. It was long before the previous incident that I realized my power and my voice were invaluable. As President of Project Dot, I advocate for low-income women and transmen, providing feminine hygiene products in compassionate and discreet ways. I needed to make changes because no one else would. Seeing from the perspective of those in need as well as those who are more comfortable watching from the sidelines is vastly important. Occasionally, I change someone’s life or someone’s perspective. Reaching the top of the hierarchy of self-actualization, I am speaking my mind and defying social norms. I am compelled to make calls to action and to be a leader in a sea of followers.
Youth Equine Service Scholarship
Standing shakily in front of the city council requesting money for such a stigmatized subject, I realized this was my last hope. Will this be the moment that I let down hundreds of Southern Nevada residents because of a problem with funding? My nerves overwhelmed me, the pressure of realizing that without this grant Project Dot, the non-profit I run supplying feminine hygiene products to women, transmen, and non-binary individuals, so many were going to suffer period poverty again. I’d never spoken in front of a huge crowd, let alone this grant being the last resort. I stood there in shambles. But What was there to lose? Then a courageous spirit kicked in. I realized as I voiced my strong, empowering voice to everyone in City Hall, they also felt the importance of Project Dot. The government couldn’t even fix this issue in Nevada as coffee is believed to be a necessity under SNAP, but pads and tampons aren’t. Knowing I was up against such a tedious fight, there was extreme pressure. But I learned something new that day– I put on a face. No one could feel my heart rapidly beating, that horrible nauseous feeling, my clammy palms, and just wanting to give up. But, as I started speaking about something I’m so passionate about, those feelings dissipated. Stepping into this situation after COVID, I had no mask to hide my feelings. I grew from a naive 14-year-old to now a 16-year-old speaking publicly for one of the most vulnerable populations in Southern Nevada. Walking into the City Council with all my past failures bared so much weight on my chest. All this background knowledge, no one knew, except for me and my busy mind. But once I shifted that mindset, I was in perfect shape. Their intrigued faces made me realize that this grant was going to be different, and it was as I had been notified, I secured the $10k grant from the Wynn Hotel. It was the same message as all the other times but instead, I was a confident young woman voicing my truth to help others. That day taught me my perseverance will go with me to successfully become an M.D. This lesson has reminded me that wherever I am if I am a confident leader, others will be compelled to listen, especially when I am a medical professional advocating for those in marginalized communities.
William Griggs Memorial Scholarship for Science and Math
Finishing my 4th year of public health science coursework and graduating high school with my CNA and Pharmacy Tech license has drawn me to becoming an M.D. I am an inherent advocate, and I want to ensure I spend my life advocating for those in need of medical care and delivering the best possible support, particularly to those with healthcare disparity. From my previous love of philanthropic work, working in the medical field was somewhere I noticed my philanthropic heart being allured. My involvement in real-life experiences within the healthcare field has ensured me that I want to be an anesthesiologist. Making an impact on future generations and our current communities is really what drives me to be a medical professional. I’m intrigued by the opportunity to intern around the world and to learn at top facilities nearby to teach me invaluable skills. Getting a degree in Medical Sciences isn’t strictly about education, it also entails so many real-world connections and opportunities to make an impact on communities. Furthermore, the ability to partake in public health activities such as study abroad programs will deepen my knowledge and introduce me to diverse global issues currently unmet. Empathy-building experiences like these will allow me to open my heart and eyes to the problems I can impact as a medical professional. Especially being able to visit marginalized communities and improve the medical care that is delivered is something that I strive to accomplish with my education. Contributing to global experiences will strengthen my cultural adaptability which is vital in medicine as physicians serve all patients equitably. Being well-rounded will ensure that I help create more inclusive environments that are safer for everyone in the community when they feel that they can trust those who are providing for them medically. This is so important to me that I carry out this task because throughout history many have found it hard to trust healthcare providers due to previous actions and I want to help get rid of that stigma and create a trusting environment for those who are receiving care. Creating a positive environment and curating that patient-provider relationship is really what makes a difference in treatment and that is something I would ensure I accomplished. While obtaining my degree or even after there will be many research opportunities that I am interested in as well as finding mentors who will help me along my educational journey. Having the ability to partake in community-engaged research projects is something I want to experience as well. For instance, firsthand research opportunities like the Embryonic Signaling Pathways in Stomach Cancer are a field, as a women’s issues supporter, that I would be interested in contributing to. Specific research opportunities like the cancer field are really where I am interested in making a change with my medical degree. Making new discoveries that change the aspect of our world is another thing that I strive to do with my background in medicine. Overall, medical science offers the exact opportunities that would allow me to be a successful medical professional and to have a unique learning opportunity on the way to achieving that dream. Not only would getting this degree set me on the path to getting my M.D. and becoming an anesthesiologist but I would still be able to make major implications in society on my track to medical school. I will make positive changes for those underrepresented and for anyone who needs medical attention.
Jorian Kuran Harris (Shugg) Helping Heart Foundation Scholarship
My dream is not to be living the average life of just getting by, but to have the ability to live lavishly to make an impact in the community. My career aspirations are based on my academic performance and my dedication to keeping pushing myself in life. As I continue to be an active leader in my community, I will be able to have my own private practice while being an anesthesiologist. I see myself living an amazing life as I am pursuing my dream career. I am not chasing a career for the benefits it reaps. I am doing something that I have a genuine connection to. To do this I will push as hard as I can to get into a prestigious undergraduate program so that I am setting myself up to have an opinion of what amazing medical school I would like to go to. Considering I want to be an anesthesiologist, my current volunteering in the NICU for the past year will be greatly beneficial as I am already getting familiar with all the terms and the flow of the hospital. As well as taking my CNA and pharmacology course as a senior at my school I am expected to graduate with my CNA and pharmacology license. This is already setting me on the correct path for my studies and I will be more familiar with the medical field. Hopefully, this will allow me to go further in my career more quickly so I will be in an even better position. As well as most of my classes being AP and honors classes I will be more prepared for college so I will be in a better position academically to get good grades and focus on other things such as the community and jobs. Perfectionism is one of my greatest weaknesses as easy tasks turn into hour-long adventures or any task I do must be completed to the best of my abilities. However, perfectionism is not just one of my weaknesses, it's a disease with a long list of symptoms such as losing time, stress, and even causing problems with family relations. Realizing that I can always be perfect is one of the hardest things to accept but when the time comes into play, I must pick my battles. I must let go of the desire for perfection and embrace imperfection so I can embark on other important things. I will continue to fight this battle because I will not give up.
Stacy T. Mosley Jr. Educational Scholarship
Finishing my fourth year of public health science coursework and graduating high school with my CNA and Pharmacy Tech license has drawn me to becoming an M.D. I am an inherent advocate and I want to ensure that I spend my life advocating for those in need of medical care and delivering the best possible support, particularly to those with healthcare disparity. I have learned that health care is the backbone of society. Observing the vulnerability within patients and the connections each doctor had with their patients, I witnessed empathy-building experiences that really make a difference in treatment. These close relationships opened my heart and eyes to the medical field. From my previous love of philanthropic work, working in the medical field was somewhere I noticed my philanthropic heart being allured. Even in my minor role right now of being a volunteer and caring for the screaming, shaking NAS babies, and comforting them, I have learned that my impact will only increase as I continue my education. My involvement in real-life experiences within the healthcare field has ensured me that I want to be an anesthesiologist. I have experienced the drastic difference between reading a textbook and actual encounters. Volunteering at the hospital in the NICU has given me some insight into the coordination of running a hospital and the need for more medical professionals. Being at the hospital every week has further cultivated my interest in the medical field. Every person I encounter in the hospital makes my decision more definite to study medicine. Even though it is tedious work, it is essential for the function of society. Going to college to become a healthcare professional means I will expand my knowledge, but also become more culturally aware, and be able to continue my philanthropic work. However, with my ambitious goals comes a costly investment in the next 12 years of my education. The timeliness of my educational journey is no fear to me. I know I will withhold my diligence in my education. Once I become a medical professional, I want to advocate for marginalized communities and be a leader in creating, or as close as we can get to a eutopic society. This scholarship consideration is extremely appreciated so I continue my journey of becoming a medical professional. The completion of my career goals will allow me to ensure that everyone has access to the medical care they require. This scholarship will help relieve some of the financial burdens so I can power my academic ability to become a healthcare provider and help those living in marginalized communities. Lessening some of this financial burden will drive my motivation by proving the support my community is giving me. As I continue to run my own non-profit, my businesses and withhold my 4.0 GPA I know I will make a difference in the medical field. Being granted this scholarship would help relieve some of the financial stresses that have made the future of my future career goals of becoming. an M.D. and an anesthesiologist feel so out of reach.
McClendon Leadership Award
I am most connected to my role in running Project Dot and being the non-profit’s President. Providing feminine hygiene kits to women, non-binary, and transmen. Tackling the stigma of gender inequality and providing hygiene items to 25+ local charities across Southern Nevada has driven me to not stop until changes are made about this under-spoken topic. Nevada continues to ignore the prevalence of period poverty, considering SNAP will cover coffee because it is “essential” but pads and tampons aren’t. Watching the receivers of Project Dots kits express their gratuity simply because they were going to have to decide to either put food on the table for their families or buy feminine hygiene products shows the corruption in our society. Taking part in Project Dot has inspired me so much that I have doubled the number of kits distributed to about 4,000 a year and increased connections to advocate for the injustices of period poverty. Gender inequality and ending the stigma of period poverty are what I am fighting to change. Being a strong advocate for such a taboo subject has taught me how to lead others even when everyone is against you. Using my voice to help eliminate social stigmas in my community has not been easy, but with my background experience and hard-learned lessons from leadership positions in the National Charity League, I now have a powerful and purposeful ability to represent marginalized communities. While I began to notice I was growing into a strong advocate, I was evolving into an educator as I continued to teach young youth leaders around me the importance of Project Dot’s mission. In turn, I inspired my peers to use their voices for issues that mattered to them while being their role models to incite a revolution of change. Not only have I become more knowledgeable in servant leadership, public speaking, networking, and community engagement, but I’ve been inspired to teach those around me skills that I have learned as well. Not all of my work has been easy, my confidence has often been shot down by the failures of not securing grants or dealing with disputes among members. But my strong drive and deeply held motivation for Project Dot’s work have allowed me to get back up and keep going and inspire those around me not to give up easily either. Creating such a like-minded, inclusive community where everyone has a chance to share their story to help improve others’ livelihoods is what has connected me so much to Project Dot, making it undoubtedly my most meaningful commitment outside of the classroom. Running Project Dot has taught me how to be a strong leader and how to persevere through the difficulties we often face in life. This will probably be one of the most influential experiences that will show in my future as I continue to work to become an anesthesiologist which is not an easy task; it takes a lot of dedication that I have.
Headbang For Science
Finishing my 4th year of public health science coursework and graduating high school with my CNA and Pharmacy Tech license has drawn me to becoming an M.D. Being an inherent advocate, I want to ensure that I spend my life advocating for those in need of medical care and delivering the best possible support, particularly to those with healthcare disparity. I have learned that health care is the backbone of society. Observing the vulnerability within patients and the connections each doctor had with their patients, I witnessed empathy-building experiences that undoubtedly make a difference in treatment. These close relationships opened my heart and eyes to the medical field. From my previous love of philanthropic work, working in the medical field was somewhere I noticed my philanthropic heart being allured. Volunteering at the hospital and caring for the screaming, shaking NAS babies, and comforting them, or going to the nursing home and caring for residents, I've learned that my impact will only increase as I continue my education. These real-life experiences within the healthcare field have ensured that I want to be an anesthesiologist. I have experienced the drastic difference between reading a textbook and actual encounters. Volunteering at the Hospital NICU has given me insight into the logistics of running a hospital and the need for more medical professionals. Being at the hospital every week has further cultivated my interest in the medical field. Every person I encounter in the hospital makes my decision more definite to study medicine and it's essential for the function of society. Going to college to become a healthcare professional means I will expand my knowledge, but also become more culturally aware, and be able to continue my philanthropic work. Once I become a medical professional, I want to advocate for marginalized communities and be a leader in creating, or as close as we can get to, a eutopic society. I am intrinsically motivated to become a medical professional, which I discovered while participating in clinicals at the nursing home. Performing the duties of a nursing assistant has cultivated my understanding of every role in the medical field. My 600+ hours of community service in the past four years have shaped me into the empathetic, hard-working person I am today. This scholarship will help jumpstart my long journey, especially as I'm in a very vulnerable time currently with my family's financial situation. It pains me to admit that I must fear the future of my education because of our hardships with money. Although my small contribution to my family's bills has helped slightly, there has been no extra money to help account for my future education. However, I know my extreme dedication to my future and want to pursue a better society for everyone, I will prevail through these hardships with the support of my community. This scholarship consideration is extremely appreciated so I can continue my journey of becoming a medical professional. I will become an M.D. and an anesthesiologist. To me, Heavy Metal music means an escape!
Kevin R. Mabee Memorial Scholarship
Finishing my 4th year of public health science coursework and graduating high school with my CNA and Pharmacy Tech license has drawn me down the path of becoming an M.D. I’m an inherent advocate and want to ensure that I spend my life advocating for those in need of medical care and delivering the best possible support, particularly to those with healthcare disparity. I've learned that health care is the backbone of society, as it's built on empathy and relationships. Observing the vulnerability within patients and the connections each doctor had with their patients, I've witnessed many empathy-building experiences. These close relationships opened my heart and eyes to the medical field. Furthermore, I have learned medicine is a completely different realm than conventional jobs. Healthcare entails a team where everyone plays a significant role. From my previous love of philanthropic work, working in the medical field was somewhere I noticed my philanthropic heart being attracted. From spending over 280 hours at Summerlin Hospital, my love for being an eventual anesthesiologist has flourished. Being a leader and making changes in my community hasn’t always been easy for me. The first time I volunteered in the NICU at Summerlin Hospital, the silence was nerve-racking. Any movement I made, I could hear the crinkling of my neon blue, volunteer hospital coat. But I made myself speak to the nurses. As I put my shaking, clammy hands down to my side, I confidently introduced myself and started conversations. These small moments led to the nurses trusting me, calling me back and forth to all their crying babies when none of the other volunteers tried. In this minor role right now of being a volunteer and caring for the screaming, shaking NAS babies, and comforting them, I've learned that my impact will only increase as I continue my education. This experience further attracted me to becoming a medical professional in a field where people may feel intimidated to speak, so I can help support patients or co-workers. Volunteering at the hospital has given me insight into the logistics of running a hospital and the need for more medical professionals. Although it’s tedious work, it’s essential for the function of society. I want to create a positive environment and curate that patient-provider relationship to make a difference in treatment. Going into the medical field entails much more schooling, so during my schooling, my dream is to go to a 3rd world country to administer health care to many different communities. Already have a deepened understanding of the issues of poverty that lie within society and the unmet needs individuals are encountering, I wish to keep fighting for those with limited voices. Furthermore, as I continue to run my own non-profit and partake in philanthropic activities I will continuously partake in health-related philanthropy opportunities at my university. I want to go to college to become a healthcare professional, but I also want to expand my knowledge, become more culturally aware, and continue my philanthropic work.
Your Health Journey Scholarship
As I put in my earphones and the world finally goes silent, I feel a sigh of relief fly through my body. I cannot stop time, and I cannot pause everything, but I can put in my earphones and the world finally goes silent. The only other time I can achieve this is when I am sleeping after a long day of either charity, school, or work. Ensuring that I stay healthy is exceedingly difficult when you throw in 7 hours of school with hours of homework (cheers to AP classes and passing skills for my CNA license). I would never change this for the world though, I love it. As I swing open the gym doors the stench of sour sweat flies at my face. This smell is so horrid but so relieving because I finally know these next 2 hours my mind turns off the outside world. Trying to go as often as possible I lift heavy weights and do cardio. I love it, the rush of adrenaline, the actual feeling of being healthy. It's a euphoric experience that feels so nice after a long day. As I drink my entire icy cold Hydro flask, I feel myself relaxing in this chaotic gym. It relieves my mind to be here. Making sure you have time for yourself is often a challenging task, but the gym is that outlet that I needed. It sets me on a path to reassure myself that I am not just running home and cooking a Stouffers frozen meal because that's all I have time for. I want to make the gym worth it, so I ensure that I eat my BBQ chicken and rice alongside my strawberry and pineapple bowl. Being busy is such a tedious task because those 24 hours in a day are simply not enough time, but you need to find a balance and make sure that you are taking care of yourself. The gym is a spiraling way to do this because not only do you want to work on your physical health, but you can also only do this by making sure you are eating the right things and drinking enough water. But it also lets you reflect on your mental health as it's an outlet you release stress, anxiety, and every other pushing thing that the world throws at you. It is finally a place where the world gives you a break. It's a place of relief as you push yourself to do 2 more reps or go 5 pounds heavier. It's a place where you control the limits and there's no pressing time clock for tasks that need to be completed. It’s the time when the world finally goes silent and it's YOUR time.
Mind, Body, & Soul Scholarship
Finishing my fourth year of public health science coursework and graduating high school with my CNA and Pharmacy Tech license has drawn me to the path of becoming an M.D. I am an inherent advocate and I want to ensure that I spend my life advocating for those in need of medical care and delivering the best possible support, particularly to those with healthcare disparity. I have learned that health care is the backbone of society, as it is built on empathy and relationships. Observing the vulnerability within patients and the connections each doctor had with their patients, I saw empathy-building experiences. These close relationships opened my heart and eyes to the medical field. Furthermore, I learned that medicine is a different realm than conventional jobs. Healthcare entails a team where everyone plays a significant role. From my earlier love of philanthropic work, working in the medical field was somewhere I noticed my philanthropic heart being attracted. Even in my minor role right now of being a volunteer and caring for the screaming, shaking NAS babies, and comforting them, I've learned that my impact will only increase as I continue my education. Creating a positive environment and curating that patient-provider relationship makes a difference in treatment and watching this unfold has inspired me to become an M.D. Going into the medical field entails much more schooling so during my education, my dream is to go to a third-world country to administer health care to many different communities. Furthermore, as I continue to run my own non-profit and partake in philanthropic activities I will continuously incorporate philanthropy into the university I attend. I want to go to college to become a healthcare professional, but I also want to expand my knowledge, become more culturally aware, and continue my philanthropic work. I am motivated and committed to everything that I take part in. Not only have I maintained a perfect 4.0 GPA and 5.275 unweighted but I have also done much more besides school. Ensuring that I stay healthy is exceedingly difficult when you throw in seven hours of school with hours of homework. I would never change this for the world though, I love it. Making sure you have time for yourself is often a challenging task, but the gym is that outlet that I needed. The gym is a spiraling way to do this because not only do you want to work on your physical health, but you can also only do this by making sure you are eating the right things and drinking enough water. But it also lets you reflect on your mental health as it's an outlet you release stress, anxiety, and every other pushing thing that the world throws at you. It's finally a place where the world gives you a break. It's a place of relief as you push yourself to do 2 more reps or go 5 pounds heavier. It's a place where you control the limits and there's no pressing time clock for tasks that need to be completed. It’s the time when the world finally goes silent and it's YOUR time. Regardless of how tired I get, I ensure my academic life, family life, and community engagement are each cultivated with quality, not merely quantity. I have committed to high-level intellectual and emotional pursuits in service of others because I am a leader in a sea of followers.
Overcoming Adversity - Jack Terry Memorial Scholarship
Standing shakily in front of the city council requesting money for such a stigmatized subject, I realized this was my last hope. Was this going to be the moment that I let down hundreds of Southern Nevada residents because of a problem with funding? As my nerves overwhelmed me, the pressure of realizing that without this grant, Project Dot, the non-profit I run that provides feminine hygiene products to women, transmen, and non-binary individuals, so many were going to suffer period poverty again. I am the President of Project Dot so if I failed, this would be on me. I had never spoken in front of such a big crowd, let alone with the stress of this being the last resort. Standing there like a deer in headlights, I thought to myself: What is there to lose? That was when a courageous spirit kicked in, and I realized that as I voiced my strong, empowering voice to everyone crowded in the City Hall, they also felt the importance of Project Dot. As President, I saw the extreme level of importance this grant meant to my whole community as so many faces period poverty. Not even the government could fix this issue. Knowing that I had been up against such a tedious fight, the pressure was intimidating. But I learned something new that day– I put on a face. No one could feel my heart rapidly beating, that horrible nauseous feeling, my clammy palms, and that feeling of just wanting to give up. But, as I started to speak about something that I am so passionate about, those feelings began to dissipate. Before speaking my first words, I changed my mind set: if I put on a show where I look confident and am ready for everything, no one will know the difference. I went from a naive 14-year-old to now a 16-year-old speaking publicly for one of the most vulnerable populations in Southern Nevada. Speaking was not the only scary part because after I had failed a couple of times before in securing grants, I walked into City Council with that weight on my chest. Once I shifted to a mindset of perseverance, I was in perfect shape. That moment when I began speaking so eloquently with no error and full of pathos, I saw the impact I was making. Their intrigued faces made me realize that this grant was going to be different, and it was. It was only different because of the way the message was delivered, it was the same thing as all the other times, but instead, I was a confident young woman voicing my truth to help others. From that point on, I realized that a show of confidence will take you further and grant you higher chances of success. This lesson has reminded me that wherever I am if I am a confident leader, others will be compelled to listen. This moment of realization changed the way I approach so many situations and what has made me extremely successful in Project Dot and being a leader in my community. Overcoming this adversity has allowed me to be a confident leader. Low-income women, transmen, and non-binary individuals are finally not having to choose whether to put food on the table or care for their menstrual needs. My dream for the future is to become a successful medical professional so I can pay it forward by mentoring other young youth leaders and improving programs to support a diverse Health Care Workforce.
Kiaan Patel Scholarship
Working in public health has always been where I envisioned my future. I am an inherent advocate and I want to ensure I spend my life advocating for those in need of medical care and delivering the best possible support to, particularly, those with healthcare disparity. It wasn't a specific moment that sparked this goal, but it was the beginning at the beginning of my high school career I made a promise to myself to graduate with a CNA and Pharmacy Tech license. I have been in public health now for 4 years and I continuously find myself yearning for a future career in the medical field. Throughout my life, I have seen many disparities around my community which even inspired me to run my own non-profit, Project Dot which advocates against period poverty and gender inequality for women, transmen, and non-binary individuals, and this is just something that I love doing. Making sure that everyone has the greatest chance of the best life possible is something that everyone should have the opportunity for. Knowing that I am a confident individual who isn't afraid to speak out but also incorporate other opinions into my perspectives is a reason I think I would be such a valuable addition to the medical field. I have learned that health care is the backbone of society, as it is built on empathy and relationships. Volunteering at the hospital in the NICU has given me some insight into the logistics of running a hospital and the need for more medical professionals. Being at the hospital every week in the NICU, ER, or even the front desk has further cultivated my interest in the medical field. Each person I encounter in the hospital makes my decision more definite to study medicine even though it is tedious work, it is essential for the function of society. Everyone I encounter has a tender, kind heart wanting to help all their patients no matter the circumstances because that isn't what medicine focuses on. Making sure that I have explored so many distinct aspects of the medical field via volunteering for over a year at the hospital, taking health classes my entire high school time, and even making sure that I am empathetic, passionate, caring, and a strong leader has shown me why I have such a strong attraction to the medical field. Creating a positive environment and curating that patient-provider relationship is really what makes a difference in treatment. The opportunity for growth in this field is a flourishing environment as technology is continuously changing how care is administered. Entering a field where there is always a need for discovery and new perspectives is so promising in my opinion because it is never the same work repeatedly. It is always a different adventure and track and you must always be actively engaged to ensure the quality of care provided. This is something that I enjoy so much because the medical field is so different than other work fields because of the level of commitment but also the importance by which everyone in society is affected. Overall, I want to ensure that the human empathy piece never wanes in balancing 21st-century technology. Ultimately, my compassion for others draws me to the track in the medical field.
Lauren Czebatul Scholarship
Standing shakily in front of the city council requesting money for such a stigmatized subject, I realized this was my last hope. Will this be the moment that I let down hundreds of Southern Nevada residents because of a problem with funding? My nerves overwhelmed me, the pressure of realizing that without this grant Project Dot, the non-profit I run providing feminine hygiene products to women, transmen, and non-binary individuals, so many were going to suffer period poverty again. I’d never spoken in front of a huge crowd, let alone this grant being the last resort. I stood there in shambles. But What was there to lose? Then a courageous spirit kicked in. I realized as I voiced my strong, empowering voice to everyone in City Hall, they also felt the importance of Project Dot. The government couldn’t even fix this issue in Nevada as coffee is deemed a necessity under SNAP, but pads and tampons aren’t. Knowing I was up against such a tedious fight, there was extreme pressure. But I learned something new that day– I put on a face. No one could feel my heart rapidly beating, that horrible nauseous feeling, my clammy palms, and just wanting to give up. But, as I started speaking about something I’m so enthusiastic about, those feelings dissipated. Stepping into this situation after COVID, I had no mask to hide my feelings. I grew from a naive 14-year-old to now a 16-year-old speaking publicly for one of the most vulnerable populations in Southern Nevada. Walking into the City Councils with all my past failures bared so much weight on my chest. All this background knowledge, no one knew, except for me and my busy mind. But once I shifted that mindset, I was in perfect shape. Their intrigued faces made me realize that this grant was going to be different, and it was as I had been notified, I secured the $10k grant from the Wynn. It was the same message as all the other times but instead, I was a confident young woman voicing my truth to help others. That day taught me my perseverance will accompany me to successfully becoming an M.D. This lesson has reminded me that wherever I am, if I am a confident leader, others will be compelled to listen, especially when I am a medical professional advocating for those in marginalized communities. This scholarship award would help contribute to my future and long-term goals. With your support, I can help cover tuition costs and devote my energy to this challenging field. As I continue my medical path this year as a high school senior, graduating with my CNA license and pharmacy tech license, I will be a more well-rounded advocate for people in the community. I want to be able to make the healthcare scene a more welcoming and safer environment. After graduation, I plan to pay it forward by mentoring other young youth leaders and improving programs to support a diverse Health Care Workforce.
Health & Wellness Scholarship
As I put in my earphones and the world finally goes silent, I feel a sigh of relief fly through my body. I can't stop time, I can't pause everything, but I can put in my earphones and the world finally goes silent. The only other time I can achieve this is when I am sleeping after a long day of either charity, school, or work. Ensuring that I stay healthy is very difficult when you throw in 7 hours of school with hours of homework (cheers to AP classes and passing skills for my CNA license). I would never change this for the world though, I love it. As I swing open the gym doors the stench of sour sweat flies at my face. This smell is so horrid but yet so relieving because I finally know these next 2 hours my mind turns off the outside world. Trying to go as often as possible I lift heavy weights and do cardio. I love it, the rush of adrenaline, the actual feeling of being healthy. It's a euphoric experience that feels so nice after a terribly long day. As I drink my entire icy cold Hydro flask, I feel myself relaxing in this chaotic gym. It relieves my mind to be here. Making sure you have time for yourself is often a difficult task but the gym is that outlet that I needed. It sets me on a path to reassure myself that I'm not just running home and cooking a Stouffers frozen meal because that's all I have time for. I actually want to make the gym worth it so I ensure that I eat my BBQ chicken and rice alongside my strawberry and pineapple bowl. Being busy is such a tedious task because those 24 hours in a day are simply not enough time, but you need to find a balance and make sure that you are taking care of yourself. The gym is a spiraling way to do this because not only do you want to work on your physical health, you can only do this by making sure you are eating the right things and drinking enough water. But it also lets you reflect on your mental health as it's an outlet you release stress, anxiety, and every other pushing thing that the world throws at you. It's finally a place where the world gives you a break. It's a place of relief as you push yourself to do 2 more reps or go 5 pounds heavier. It's a place where you control the limits and there's not a pressing time clock of tasks that need to be completed. It’s the time where the world finally goes silent and it's YOUR time.
Dashanna K. McNeil Memorial Scholarship
As a graduating high school senior I have been absolutely inspired by nurses around me. They are the backbones of the health care field and are so undermined. The community within is so caring and strong that I felt as if this was the type of people I need to surround myself with when I am older. They are the people who keep the healthcare field moving and strong. Firstly, volunteering at the hospital during COVID-19 when there was such a shortage of staff and seeing what these nurses had to deal with really showed me what they are capable of. The perseverance I saw in this group of people was unmatchable throughout any other doctor in the hospital. There were actually there for their patients not only hearing their needs but a personal background so that patients felt better about being in this strange scary environment. Seeing this as I walked around volunteering trying to do anything possible showed me that this is what I want to do in the future. If I could be half the person that I was seeing these nurses around me being, then I would make a huge impact on my community. Secondly, being in the nursing program in my school showed me the dedication it takes to continue the education to be a nurse. It showed me that nurses are really there to help people and not just for the pay benefits like some health professionals. Nurses really bring out the good in healthcare and the loving support throughout. Hearing the personal stories of my own nursing teacher who was previously a RN really touched my heart and inspired me! She told me about personal stories that she got to hear in her patients lives as many of the busy doctors walked around and just saw another patient waiting for them. I wanted to be there for these people not just see them and leave, I want to be able to make a personal impact on their lives. As of right now I am trying to explore all of my options for the specific field of nursing that I want to be in. I am volunteering up at the NICU with all of the babies and I see how loving all of the nurses are and caring. Especially when they have to tend to all of the crying, hungry babies needs I am glad I am there to help. Nurses are under so much pressure that we don't always see and thats why I am so glad that I am there to help. Specifically, when there are NAS babies on the floor and the nurses are just so overworked and overloaded I can at least help take some of that stress off of them. If I could be a nurse in this world to help more people, especially at this time with all of the job declines, I would be fulfilled.
Anna Kove Student Profile | Bold.org