I was born in Mongolia but have no memory of it, having immigrated to the United States as a baby. Yet, despite spending nearly my entire life here, I often feel like I don’t truly belong anywhere. American students see me as international, while international students see me as American. Somewhere in between these labels, I carry a quiet longing to be understood—not just by others, but by myself. It’s like standing in a doorway, always waiting, never arriving. Growing up, I watched my parents struggle to navigate the healthcare system. When my sisters or I fell ill, they would clutch prescription bottles with confused expressions, flipping between instructions they couldn’t understand and their limited English vocabulary. I remember translating medical terms I barely knew myself and wishing I could do more. Those moments planted a seed in me: a yearning to become the bridge that my family and others like us so desperately needed. That seed grew into my pursuit of a PharmD degree and my goal to specialize in ambulatory care. I want to be the pharmacist who does more than fill prescriptions—I want to be the one who listens, who explains, who stays late to make sure no one feels lost the way my family once did. Healthcare should never feel like a maze, yet for so many immigrant families, it does. I want to change that. Still, this journey hasn’t been easy. Carrying the expectations of being a first-generation college student sometimes feels like a weight I cannot set down. There are days I feel as though I’m drowning in self-doubt, unsure if I’ll ever live up to the sacrifices my parents made. But I also know that the deepest roots are born from storms, and my family’s sacrifices have given me the strength to stand tall. I remind myself that even the ocean, vast and restless, is shaped by its smallest waves. I, too, am shaped by every late-night study session, every setback, and every small victory. I believe that the best lessons in life often come from moments of displacement, from feeling unmoored. They teach us empathy, resilience, and the power of connection. This scholarship would not only honor my parents’ sacrifices but also allow me to build the kind of healthcare future where no one feels unseen. In a world that often feels divided, I carry with me the hope of belonging—not just for myself, but for everyone I have yet to serve.

As the eldest daughter with no brothers, Sabrina Carpenter's music has deeply resonated with me, intertwining with my personal journey and familial responsibilities. I first discovered Sabrina Carpenter's music through a mix of curiosity and recommendation. As a fan of pop music and someone always on the lookout for new artists, I stumbled upon her songs while browsing music platforms and receiving enthusiastic recommendations from friends who admired her work. Her blend of catchy melodies and meaningful lyrics immediately caught my attention, drawing me into her artistic journey and resonating with my own experiences and emotions. One of Sabrina Carpenter's songs that has profoundly impacted me is "Eyes Wide Open." Its message of vigilance and awareness, "Everybody's waiting, everybody's watching / Even when you're sleeping, keep your ey-eyes open," reflects the sense of responsibility I feel as the eldest sister. This lyric reminds me of the constant need to set a good example and be attentive to the needs of my younger sisters, guiding them through life's challenges with wisdom and care. Another track, "On Purpose," captures the essence of my journey through young adulthood and my role as the eldest daughter. The lyrics "I'm going through the motions / Trying to find a reason for my set emotions" resonate with the introspective moments I've experienced while navigating the complexities of family dynamics and my responsibilities. This song reminds me of the importance of purposefully guiding my sisters and setting a positive example for them as they navigate their own paths. Sabrina Carpenter's evolution as an artist, from her early career to her current work, serves as a beacon of inspiration for me in embracing growth and authenticity. Her music encourages me to embrace resilience and lead by example in my family. Through her lyrics and melodies, I find strength in navigating the challenges of being the eldest daughter, knowing that each step forward enriches my journey and strengthens the bond with my sisters. In essence, Sabrina Carpenter's music resonates deeply with me as the eldest daughter, offering guidance and inspiration as I navigate familial responsibilities and personal growth. Her songs encapsulate themes of responsibility, self-discovery, and perseverance, reflecting my journey of guiding and supporting my sisters while embracing my own aspirations and identity. Through her music, I find strength and motivation to continue leading with love, wisdom, and authenticity in my role as the eldest daughter.

If my year had a soundtrack, Taylor Swift's "1989 (Taylor's Version)" would undoubtedly feature prominently, resonating deeply with the highs and lows, growth, and self-discovery that have defined my journey in 2023. "Bad Blood" immediately strikes a chord, reflecting the tumultuous dynamic with my roommate. The song's lyrics speak to the simmering tensions and misunderstandings that brewed over conflicting lifestyles. Living together highlighted our differences, leading to unspoken resentments that strained our bond. Learning to navigate these conflicts taught me the importance of honesty and direct communication, echoing Taylor's sentiment that "Band-aids don't fix bullet holes." It was a lesson in setting boundaries and addressing issues head-on rather than letting resentment build. "How You Get the Girl" embodies the theme of hope and second chances, resonating deeply with my journey of healing from a past relationship. The song's upbeat melody and hopeful lyrics mirror my path of reconciliation with my ex. Our relationship faltered due to immaturity and differing expectations. Looking back, I see how our inability to communicate effectively led to misunderstandings and hurt. Taylor's advice in the song resonates: sometimes, "winning someone back requires sincere effort and a willingness to learn from mistakes." It's about recognizing growth and maturity as essential ingredients for a healthy relationship, lessons I've taken to heart as I've navigated new beginnings and rediscovered myself. "Clean" serves as a poignant reflection of personal growth and emotional renewal. Its lyrics capture the essence of overcoming heartbreak and finding inner strength. Moving on from my ex was a process of self-discovery and healing. Taylor's words, "Rain came pouring down / When I was drowning, that's when I could finally breathe," resonate deeply with my journey of letting go of past pain and embracing a new beginning. It's a reminder that growth often emerges from moments of vulnerability and emotional clarity. Embracing change and finding closure allowed me to move forward with optimism and a renewed sense of purpose. Taylor Swift's "1989 (Taylor's Version)" has been more than a collection of songs; it has been a companion through moments of conflict, introspection, and growth in 2023. Each track has provided solace and inspiration, offering a soundtrack that mirrors my journey of navigating relationships, healing from heartache, and embracing personal transformation. As I continue to forge ahead, I carry with me the resilience and lessons learned from Taylor's music, forever grateful for its ability to articulate and resonate with the complexities of my life.

My educational journey began in Mongolia, where I was born, before moving to the United States at a young age. Growing up as an immigrant, my experiences have profoundly shaped my identity and aspirations. This journey, marked by perseverance, a deep connection to my roots, and a commitment to overcoming challenges, has fueled my academic success and personal growth. From an early age, my parents instilled in me the values of family, respect, and hard work. They didn't have the same educational opportunities but were determined to support my education. Their sacrifices motivated me to make the most of every opportunity, driving my dream to become the first in my family to attend university and pursue a career in healthcare. Being the first in my family to attend university has been both an honor and a challenge. Navigating higher education largely on my own required independence and determination. The weight of this responsibility sometimes felt overwhelming, but the knowledge that I was paving the way for future generations in my family kept me going. Each success, whether it was acing an exam or receiving a scholarship, brought me closer to my dream of making a meaningful impact in healthcare. Throughout my journey, I faced numerous challenges that tested my resolve. Balancing academics with family responsibilities and financial strain often made me question if I could continue. One particular moment stands out: fall sophomore quarter, I was overwhelmed with coursework and family obligations. Exhaustion and stress took a toll, and I considered taking a break from school. However, the support and encouragement from my mentors and friends helped me persevere. My parents' sacrifices and the thought of the opportunities that education could bring kept me focused. I realized that giving up would mean letting down not only myself but also my family and the community that believed in me. This realization reignited my determination and pushed me to keep going. Through this journey, I discovered values that define who I am. Resilience, perseverance, and determination are at the core of my character. Growing up in a disadvantaged community taught me to be resourceful and make the most of what I have. I learned to seek out opportunities, even in the most challenging circumstances. I value community and the importance of giving back, understanding that my success is intertwined with the success of those around me. One of the most significant influences on my resilience was my connection to my cultural roots. Our home, filled with artifacts like my father's horse saddle from his herder days in the Gobi Desert, served as a constant reminder of our heritage. These symbols of our past reinforced my sense of identity and the strength derived from my cultural background. Asking for help was initially difficult. It required humility and the recognition that I couldn't do everything on my own. However, once I started reaching out, I realized the power of community and support networks. Receiving help from professors, mentors, and friends not only provided practical assistance but also boosted my morale and confidence. For example, during a particularly challenging period, I sought guidance from my lab research mentor who helped me navigate my academic and personal challenges. Their support and encouragement were invaluable, helping me regain my focus and motivation. This experience taught me that seeking help is a strength, not a weakness. It also inspired me to pay it forward and support others in their educational pursuits. Receiving help was a humbling and empowering experience. Each act of kindness, whether it was a scholarship, mentorship, or a word of encouragement, served as a reminder that I was not alone in my journey. It reinforced my belief in the goodness of people and the importance of community support. It also highlighted the importance of reciprocity, motivating me to offer assistance to others facing similar struggles. Choosing pharmacy as my career path was shaped by these unique life encounters. An unexpected opportunity during a summer pharmacy clerk course solidified my interest. Engaging with professionals from various pharmacy disciplines and discussing societal issues related to drug addiction opened my eyes to the broader impact of pharmacy. These interactions highlighted the social responsibilities of pharmacists and inspired me to merge scientific knowledge with community welfare. I got involved in organizations like the Pre-Pharmacy Society (PPS) and the Cosmetic Chemist Society (CCS) which broadened my understanding of pharmacy’s diverse applications. These experiences showed me the varied roles pharmacists can play in community engagement and deepened my appreciation for pharmaceutical sciences. In conclusion, my educational journey is a testament to resilience, the importance of cultural heritage, and the power of community support. Despite challenges, my determination and the values instilled by my parents drive me to succeed. I am committed to using my education in pharmacy to advocate for healthcare equity and to make a meaningful impact in the lives of others.

As an aspiring pharmacist, I am profoundly inspired by Dr. Sami's life and the impact she made. Despite the tragedy of her passing, her spirit lives on in the countless lives she touched through her work. I am committed to honoring her memory by embodying the same passion, empathy, and dedication in my journey as a pharmacist. My plan to give back to future pharmacy students and uphold Dr. Sami's legacy encompasses several key initiatives. Firstly, I aim to actively mentor and support aspiring pharmacists from underprivileged backgrounds, providing guidance and resources to help them navigate the challenges of pursuing advanced education in pharmacy. As a first generation student, I found mentorship to be most helpful. Through mentorship programs and community outreach, I seek to create a supportive network that empowers students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. Furthermore, I am dedicated to advocating for increased financial assistance for aspiring pharmacists. By actively engaging with policymakers and stakeholders, I'll work towards implementing initiatives that alleviate the financial burden associated with pharmacy education, making it more inclusive to all deserving students. There's only resources for citizens and more can be done. In carrying forward Dr. Sami's legacy, I am driven by a deep sense of responsibility to uphold the values of service, compassion, and excellence that she embodied. With ambition and passion, coupled with a genuine commitment to addressing financial need, I am determined to make a meaningful difference in the lives of future pharmacy students, just as Dr. Sami did in hers.

Bulletproof Boy Scouts, the name itself, brings me hope when I hear it. Today, we look around and see our problems staring down at us. It's easy to feel overwhelmed. The challenged unleashed on people globally may seem insurmountable, yet we look forward to the promises of a better tomorrow. We hold out hope because we don't want to give up. We don't gain that courage by ourselves, but through our relationship with others. To me, BTS was that helping hand. Suffering from social anxiety, the pressures of school, and my strained relationship with my parents, my mentality spiraled, and I found myself sinking into depression and shame. I got tired of life. The weight of life become unbearable, and I disconnected from the world, feeling lost and fatigued. It was during this dark phase that I stumbled upon a BTS song, Fire, which I initially liked because the upbeat song distracted me from my issues. However, the more songs I listened from them, the more I was hooked by the lyrics. They always had meaningful lyrics that made me change how I thought of myself. One particular lyric that stood out to me was "On days where I hate myself for being me, on days where I want to disappear forever Let's make a door. It's in your heart. Open the door and this place will await. Magic Shop". BTS gave me strength to try, to rise above the shadows of despair, and to open the door to a place of self-discovery and resilience. Addressing each individually, heartfelt gratitude is expressed. Namjoon's speeches offer comfort, Seokjin brings laughter, Yoongi's lyrics finds is saved in my heart, J-Hope's energy brings Joy, Jimin's understanding is cherished, Taehyung's uniqueness is appreciated, and Jungkook's growth inspired belief in the good things in life. BTS has undeniably left a mark on global cultural, extending their influence beyond the music industry. They constitute around half a percent of South Korea's economy, with them being the reason most tourist visit. As recognition of their success, South Korea introduced the "Hallyu visa" specially letting K-Pop fans to stay in the country for up to two years. BTS's influence on global culture is further underscored by their role in reshaping the perception of K-pop worldwide. They have garnered attention not only for their music but also their unique approach to the industry. Breaking away from the traditional studio culture, BTS stands out by writing their own socially conscious lyrics, managing their social media presence, and openly discussing the struggles of their career. This departure from the norm has not only set them apart but has also influenced the broader landscape of K-pop. The band's ability to connect with audiences on a personal level, addressing mental health struggles and societal pressures, has resonated globally. Their authenticity, expressed through honest lyrics of Self-Love and a commitment to openness, has sparked a movement that goes beyond music. BTS's influence extends to their fanbase, ARMY, which has become a powerful force in social and cultural discussions, combating racism and championing diverse perspectives. They have not only diversified mainstream music in America but have also prompted American production companies to bring aspects of K-pop to the U.S. The transcendent power of music and love becomes evident in the connection between BTS and ARMY, surpassing language and cultural barriers. In this relationship, both artist and fan contribute to a shared journey of growth, healing, and mutual support. As BTS continues to inspire, their impact on global culture resonates far beyond the realm of music, symbolizing the enduring strength of humanity.