Ever since I can remember, my life has been a whirlwind of caregiving and medical challenges. Growing up, my family faced numerous health issues, constantly shuttling between hospitals and doctor's appointments. As I navigated this long journey alongside my loved ones, I found myself drawn to the intricate workings of the medical field, questioning the purpose of every pill and procedure. As a child I was very curious and since I was always around I always had questions to ask about the things that were happening. My upbringing sparked a deep-seated curiosity and a desire to understand healthcare's complexities. I became the go-to caregiver within my family, helping with medications, going to doctors’ appointments with them, and being there for emotional support during our darkest moments. Despite the troubles, these experiences ignited a passion within me—a longing to make a tangible difference in people's lives through medicine I didn’t know how at that time but I knew it’s what I wanted to do. Initially, I dreamt of becoming a pediatrician, inspired by the prospect of caring for children and guiding them towards a healthy future. But as I grew older, my journey took an unexpected turn. I sat down one day as time got closer to graduation and asked myself what I really wanted to do, I knew it wanted to be with kids but I didn’t know specifically. I discovered a profound calling within the realm of neonatology—the delicate art of caring for newborns, especially those born prematurely or with medical complexities. I didn’t know much about this specialty but as I looked into it, helping babies and parents at a chance for a better life with their children from the start I knew then that’s what I wanted to do. My journey from caregiver to aspiring neonatologist has been shaped by personal experiences, including my own premature birth. Born prematurely myself, I understand firsthand the challenges faced by neonates and their families. The necessary care and procedures can and will be overwhelming to a family. Both me and my sister were born prematurely, and this had a big impact on us and my family from everything we had to go through. From being undeveloped I was born with a hole in my heart which left me with a murmur, and my sister with undeveloped lungs which still to this day has trouble screaming. This played a big role in the field I choose to work in and to advocate for because I realize the importance of it and how everyone needs that support and definite care. This intimate connection fuels my dedication to making a difference in their lives

Ever since I can remember, my life has been a whirlwind of caregiving and medical challenges. Growing up, my family faced numerous health issues, constantly shuttling between hospitals and doctor's appointments. As I navigated this long journey alongside my loved ones, I found myself drawn to the intricate workings of the medical field, questioning the purpose of every pill and procedure. As a child I was very curious and since I was always around I always had questions to ask about the things that were happening. My upbringing sparked a deep-seated curiosity and a desire to understand healthcare's complexities. I became the go-to caregiver within my family, helping with medications, going to doctors’ appointments with them, and being there for emotional support during our darkest moments. Despite the troubles, these experiences ignited a passion within me—a longing to make a tangible difference in people's lives through medicine I didn’t know how at that time but I knew it’s what I wanted to do. Initially, I dreamt of becoming a pediatrician, inspired by the prospect of caring for children and guiding them towards a healthy future. But as I grew older, my journey took an unexpected turn. I sat down one day as time got closer to graduation and asked myself what I really wanted to do, I knew it wanted to be with kids but I didn’t know specifically. I discovered a profound calling within the realm of neonatology—the delicate art of caring for newborns, especially those born prematurely or with medical complexities. I didn’t know much about this specialty but as I looked into it, helping babies and parents at a chance for a better life with their children from the start I knew then that’s what I wanted to do. My journey from caregiver to aspiring neonatologist has been shaped by personal experiences, including my own premature birth. Born prematurely myself, I understand firsthand the challenges faced by neonates and their families. The necessary care and procedures can and will be overwhelming to a family. Both me and my sister were born prematurely, and this had a big impact on us and my family from everything we had to go through. From being undeveloped I was born with a hole in my heart which left me with a murmur, and my sister with undeveloped lungs which still to this day has trouble screaming. This played a big role in the field I choose to work in and to advocate for because I realize the importance of it and how everyone needs that support and definite care. This intimate connection fuels my dedication to making a difference in their lives

Growing up in a single-mother household has been one of the most defining experiences of my life. My mom has always been my biggest inspiration—her strength, resilience, and constant support have shaped the person I am today. Watching her work hard to provide for me taught me the importance of independence and perseverance. I learned early on that life would not always be easy, but with dedication and determination, I could overcome any obstacle. From the very beginning, my life started with a challenge. I was born prematurely, and while I was too young to remember those early days, I’ve always known that it took strength, care, and medical dedication for me to grow healthy. Learning my own story inspired me to want to give that same care to others. That is why I dream of becoming a neonatologist—to be the person who helps the smallest and most vulnerable patients get a fighting chance at life. I want to not only care for newborns, but also give families hope during what can be the hardest moments of their lives. Throughout my life, I have been deeply involved in activities that shaped my work ethic and resilience. I played soccer, cheered, and danced as a majorette—each role teaching me lessons about teamwork, discipline, and the importance of pushing forward even when things are difficult. On the soccer field, I learned grit. Cheerleading taught me the value of lifting others up while striving for my own best. Being a majorette gave me a way to express myself creatively while representing my school with pride. Along the way, I’ve faced my own mental challenges. There were moments when it felt easier to give up, but I refused to let those struggles define me. Instead, I’ve learned to prioritize my mental health, set boundaries, and remind myself that I deserve the best future possible. Those challenges have made me stronger, more empathetic, and even more determined to create a life I’m proud of. My long-term goals include earning my degree in medicine, becoming a neonatologist, and one day owning my own home. Having my own space will represent more than just financial stability—it will be proof to myself that I turned my challenges into achievements. I want my journey to inspire others, especially those from single-parent households, to believe that their circumstances don’t limit their potential. The Iliana Arie Velez Scholarship resonates with me deeply because, like Iliana, I believe in living with passion, courage, and purpose. She was a light to those around her, and I want to carry that same light into the world through my work in healthcare and my interactions with others. My hope is to make a lasting impact—not only through saving and improving lives in the NICU, but by treating every person I meet with compassion and respect. This scholarship would not only help me pursue my education, but it would also be a step toward fulfilling a dream that began the day I learned my own story of survival. I am committed to honoring Iliana’s legacy by living a life fueled by ambition, driven by compassion, and dedicated to making a positive difference in the world.

I was born pre-maturely with a heart murmur and had to undergo surgery at just two days old. As an affect of that I suffered with really bad asthma throughout my life. My life has always been pretty crazy taking care of my grandparents and being in and out of the hospital myself. Going through this journey with myself and my family always left me interested in the healthcare field, questioning the purpose of certain treatments, diagnoses, and pills always wondering what it truly meant. My upbringing sparked a deep-seated curiosity and a desire to understand healthcare's complexities. I became the go-to caregiver within my family, helping with medications, going to doctors’ appointments with them, and being there for emotional support during our darkest moments. Initially, I dreamt of becoming a pediatrician, inspired by the prospect of caring for children and guiding them towards a healthy future. But as I grew older, my journey took an unexpected turn. I sat down one day as time got closer to graduation and asked myself what I really wanted to do, I knew it wanted to be with kids but I didn’t know specifically. As I did my research and volunteered at hospitals to gain knowledge and experience, I discovered a instant connection to neonatology, the delicate art of caring for newborns, especially those born prematurely or with medical complexities mainly because I experienced the same thing. I didn’t know much about this specialty but as I looked into it, helping babies and parents at a chance for a better life with their children from the start I knew then that’s what I wanted to do. My aspiration to become a neonatologist exceeds mere career goals; it's deeply rooted in personal experience. I am driven by the opportunity to offer compassionate care and support to these tiny warriors and their families during their most critical moments My journey towards neonatology is fueled by a desire to advance healthcare and education within this specialized field. More importantly me being a black women in healthcare, there aren't that many so that would be a great addition and benefit people who wouldn't expect it. Neonatal care is a delicate balance of medical expertise, technological innovation, and heartfelt compassion—an arena ripe for transformative change. The neonatal field is not an easy field to be in because you are dealing with very tiny and fragile humans who ultimately have something wrong with them that you have to try and fix which can affect you mentally. One cornerstone of my vision for neonatal care is improving access to education and support for families. Navigating the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) can be overwhelming for parents, filled with unfamiliar language and intimidating procedures. I aim to bridge this gap by being as understanding and considerate as possible. I aim to do my job and at the same time make the family feel as comfortable and included as possible. I'm determined to help improve the health of newborns by working on research projects. I'll team up with different people and study ways to make treatments better for babies. My goal is to make sure every newborn gets the best possible care. My journey from caregiver to aspiring neonatologist has been shaped by personal experiences, including my own premature birth. This intimate connection fuels my dedication to making a difference in their lives. With each step forward, I know that me being apart of the medical field as a woman and a neonatologist, I could make a big difference in helping families and that makes me feel good.

My relationship with Jesus has affected my faith by a great amount because I always went to church but never really had my own relationship with Him. As I grew closer and learned on my own, it brought me to realize that He never fails you. Even in your horrible times where you think you will not make it, you will, because of Him. This realization has been a cornerstone in my life, and I plan to implement that faith in my educational journey. As a rising college freshman at Texas State University, majoring in Pre-Med, I know that my path will be challenging. The road to becoming a doctor is long and difficult, but my faith in Jesus gives me the strength to face these challenges. I have learned to trust in Him completely, knowing that He will guide me through any obstacles I encounter. Throughout high school, I maintained a 3.4 GPA while being a majorette for all four years. This experience taught me discipline and the importance of balancing my time. I also volunteered at nursing homes and hospitals, which reinforced my desire to help others and pursue a career in medicine. Serving others in these settings made me realize how much I rely on my faith to provide comfort and support to those in need. In addition to my academic and extracurricular activities, I was a member of the National Honors Society and worked as a server at a movie theater. These experiences taught me the value of hard work and perseverance. I believe that my faith in Jesus will continue to guide me as I navigate the challenges of college life and beyond. I plan to implement my faith in Jesus throughout my educational journey by always praying and talking to Him. Keeping Him in mind will help me stay grounded and focused on my goals. I know that having faith in Him will get me far in life and that no matter the problems I face in school, He will be able to help me through them. My faith has also taught me the importance of compassion and empathy. As a future doctor, I want to provide not only medical care but also emotional and spiritual support to my patients. I believe that my relationship with Jesus will help me be a better listener and more understanding of the struggles that others face. In conclusion, my relationship with Jesus has profoundly impacted my faith and will continue to do so throughout my educational journey. By relying on Him, I am confident that I can overcome any challenges and achieve my dreams of becoming a doctor. I am grateful for the strength and guidance that my faith provides, and I am committed to using it to make a positive impact on the lives of others.

As a recently graduated high school senior, I've come to realize how much my depression has affected every part of my life. It’s been like a rollercoaster, with some days feeling okay and others leaving me stuck in sadness, it's definitely not an easy thing to deal with on your own. These experiences have deeply influenced my goals, relationships, and how I see the world. My depression has taught me to put my mental health first. On tough days, it's hard to focus on anything. Simple tasks can feel impossible. So, my main goal has become to keep a stable and manageable routine that supports my well-being. This includes making time for self-care activities like playing with my dog, going for walks, or listening to music. Because focusing on schoolwork and joining class discussions is challenging, I’ve had to adjust my academic goals to be more realistic and achievable. I break tasks into smaller steps and celebrate small victories. This helps me stay motivated and reduces the pressure that can make my depression worse. My experiences have also shaped my career goals. I’m interested in jobs that involve helping others, like working in the hospital as a Neonatologist or maybe becoming a therapist myself. I want to use my journey to support and guide others who might be facing similar struggles, showing them that seeking help is a brave and important step toward healing and that no matter where you go people are there to help. Depression has strained my relationships with friends and family, often leaving me too tired to do activities I used to enjoy. But it has also made my connections with those who truly understand and support me much deeper. I’ve learned the value of opening up to someone I trust, whether a friend, family member, or counselor. This openness provides relief and reminds me that I’m not alone in this struggle. Learning to set boundaries has been crucial. I’ve gotten better at saying no to things that drain my energy or trigger my anxiety. This has helped me protect my mental health without feeling guilty and has led to more honest and supportive relationships. My loved ones now better understand my needs and limitations. I’ve become more selective about my social interactions. Sometimes, I go to my room during family visits or cancel plans with friends to conserve my energy and manage my mental health. This has taught me to cherish and nurture the relationships that are most supportive and understanding. Dealing with depression has made me more empathetic toward others facing similar challenges. I’ve learned the importance of being compassionate and supportive, as you never know what someone else might be going through. This has broadened my perspective and made me more patient and considerate. My experiences have inspired me to advocate for greater mental health awareness. I aim to reduce the trauma associated with mental health issues by sharing my journey and encouraging others to seek help when needed. I understand that mental health is just as important as physical health, and advocating for this is crucial. Through the ups and downs of dealing with depression, I’ve learned to take things one day at a time. This has built resilience and personal growth. I now understand that setbacks are part of the journey and that each day offers a new opportunity for improvement. In Conclusion, My experience with depression has profoundly shaped my goals, relationships, and understanding of the world. It has taught me the importance of prioritizing mental health, setting realistic goals, and fostering deep, supportive relationships. This journey has also increased my empathy and driven me to advocate for mental health awareness. Navigating high school while dealing with mental health challenges has not been easy, but by taking things one day at a time and finding strategies that work for me, I am better able to manage the ups and downs of life.

Ever since I can remember, my life has been a whirlwind of caregiving and medical challenges. Growing up, my family faced numerous health issues, constantly shuttling between hospitals and doctor's appointments. As I navigated this long journey alongside my loved ones, I found myself drawn to the intricate workings of the medical field, questioning the purpose of every pill and procedure. As a child I was very curious and since I was always around I always had questions to ask about the things that were happening. My upbringing sparked a deep-seated curiosity and a desire to understand healthcare's complexities. I became the go-to caregiver within my family, helping with medications, going to doctors’ appointments with them, and being there for emotional support during our darkest moments. Despite the troubles, these experiences ignited a passion within me—a longing to make a tangible difference in people's lives through medicine I didn’t know how at that time but I knew it’s what I wanted to do. Initially, I dreamt of becoming a pediatrician, inspired by the prospect of caring for children and guiding them towards a healthy future. But as I grew older, my journey took an unexpected turn. I sat down one day as time got closer to graduation and asked myself what I really wanted to do, I knew it wanted to be with kids but I didn’t know specifically. I discovered a profound calling within the realm of neonatology—the delicate art of caring for newborns, especially those born prematurely or with medical complexities. I didn’t know much about this specialty but as I looked into it, helping babies and parents at a chance for a better life with their children from the start I knew then that’s what I wanted to do. My journey from caregiver to aspiring neonatologist has been shaped by personal experiences, including my own premature birth. Born prematurely myself, I understand firsthand the challenges faced by neonates and their families. The necessary care and procedures can and will be overwhelming to a family. Both me and my sister were born prematurely, and this had a big impact on us and my family from everything we had to go through. From being undeveloped I was born with a hole in my heart which left me with a murmur, and my sister with undeveloped lungs which still to this day has trouble screaming. This played a big role in the field I choose to work in and to advocate for because I realize the importance of it and how everyone needs that support and definite care. This intimate connection fuels my dedication to making a difference in their lives.

Ever since I can remember, my life has been a whirlwind of caregiving and medical challenges. Growing up, my family faced numerous health issues, constantly shuttling between hospitals and doctor's appointments. As I navigated this long journey alongside my loved ones, I found myself drawn to the intricate workings of the medical field, questioning the purpose of every pill and procedure. As a child I was very curious and since I was always around I always had questions to ask about the things that were happening. My upbringing sparked a deep-seated curiosity and a desire to understand healthcare's complexities. I became the go-to caregiver within my family, helping with medications, going to doctors’ appointments with them, and being there for emotional support during our darkest moments. Despite the troubles, these experiences ignited a passion within me—a longing to make a tangible difference in people's lives through medicine I didn’t know how at that time but I knew it’s what I wanted to do. Initially, I dreamt of becoming a pediatrician, inspired by the prospect of caring for children and guiding them towards a healthy future. But as I grew older, my journey took an unexpected turn. I sat down one day as time got closer to graduation and asked myself what I really wanted to do, I knew it wanted to be with kids but I didn’t know specifically. I discovered a profound calling within the realm of neonatology—the delicate art of caring for newborns, especially those born prematurely or with medical complexities. I didn’t know much about this specialty but as I looked into it, helping babies and parents at a chance for a better life with their children from the start I knew then that’s what I wanted to do. My journey from caregiver to aspiring neonatologist has been shaped by personal experiences, including my own premature birth. Born prematurely myself, I understand firsthand the challenges faced by neonates and their families. The necessary care and procedures can and will be overwhelming to a family. Both me and my sister were born prematurely, and this had a big impact on us and my family from everything we had to go through. From being undeveloped I was born with a hole in my heart which left me with a murmur, and my sister with undeveloped lungs which still to this day has trouble screaming. This played a big role in the field I choose to work in and to advocate for because I realize the importance of it and how everyone needs that support and definite care. This intimate connection fuels my dedication to making a difference in their lives.

Volunteering at Methodist Charlton Hospital in the ER and nursing education department was a life-changing experience for me. It gave me a clear view of what working in healthcare is really like and confirmed that this is what I want to do with my life. Working in the ER, I saw the immediate needs of patients and how dedicated the medical staff is. Whether I was comforting a patient or helping with paperwork, I learned to stay calm under pressure and work as part of a team. In the nursing education department, I helped with training sessions and organized materials. This showed me how important ongoing learning is in healthcare and inspired me to keep learning and helping others. These experiences have made me want to become a neonatologist, a doctor who cares for newborn babies. I want to make life easier for babies and their parents during critical times. In the future, I hope to work in underserved communities, providing care to those who need it most. By pursuing a career in healthcare, I aim to make a positive impact on the lives of families and inspire others to do the same.

Ever since I can remember, my life has been a whirlwind of caregiving and medical challenges. Growing up, my family faced numerous health issues, constantly shuttling between hospitals and doctor's appointments. As I navigated this long journey alongside my loved ones, I found myself drawn to the intricate workings of the medical field, questioning the purpose of every pill and procedure. As a child I was very curious and since I was always around I always had questions to ask about the things that were happening. My upbringing sparked a deep-seated curiosity and a desire to understand healthcare's complexities. I became the go-to caregiver within my family, helping with medications, going to doctors’ appointments with them, and being there for emotional support during our darkest moments. Initially, I dreamt of becoming a pediatrician, inspired by the prospect of caring for children and guiding them towards a healthy future. But as I grew older, my journey took an unexpected turn. I sat down one day as time got closer to graduation and asked myself what I really wanted to do, I knew it wanted to be with kids but I didn’t know specifically. I discovered a profound calling within the realm of neonatology—the delicate art of caring for newborns, especially those born prematurely or with medical complexities. I didn’t know much about this specialty but as I looked into it, helping babies and parents at a chance for a better life with their children from the start I knew then that’s what I wanted to do. My aspiration to become a neonatologist exceeds mere career goals; it's deeply rooted in personal experience. Witnessing the fragility of newborns and the unwavering strength of their families during our hospital stays left an indelible mark on my soul. I am driven by the opportunity to offer compassionate care and support to these tiny warriors and their families during their most critical moments My journey towards neonatology is fueled by a burning desire to advance healthcare and education within this specialized field. Neonatal care is a delicate balance of medical expertise, technological innovation, and heartfelt compassion—an arena ripe for transformative change. The neonatal field is not an easy field to be in because you are dealing with very tiny and fragile humans who ultimately have something wrong with them and you have to try and fix and that not only affects you professionally but mentally also. One cornerstone of my vision for neonatal care is improving access to education and support for families. Navigating the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) can be overwhelming for parents, filled with unfamiliar language and intimidating procedures. I aim to bridge this gap by developing tailored educational resources, empowering families to actively engage in their child's care journey. I aim to do my job and at the same time make the family feel as comfortable and included as possible. I'm determined to help improve the health of newborns by working on research projects. I'll team up with different people and study ways to make treatments better for babies. My goal is to make sure every newborn gets the best possible care. My journey from caregiver to aspiring neonatologist has been shaped by personal experiences, including my own premature birth. This intimate connection fuels my dedication to making a difference in their lives. With each step forward, I am guided by the belief that through compassion, innovation, and advocacy, we can create a brighter future for the tiniest members of our society and their families.

As a high school senior, I've realized how deeply my depression affects every aspect of my life. It's like being on a rollercoaster, with some days feeling bearable while others leave me trapped in a loop of despair. When my mental health isn't great, it's hard to focus in class and just on life itself. It's like my brain is filled with a fog that makes everything feel heavy and overwhelming. Sometimes, I can't even bring myself to get out of bed in the morning because the thought of facing the day seems too daunting When my depression flares up, focusing on anything becomes an uphill battle. It's as if my mind is shrouded in a dense fog, making even simple tasks feel like daunting challenges. Some mornings, I struggle to even leave my bed, weighed down by the overwhelming dread of facing another day. And when I manage to make it to school, concentrating on assignments or participating in class discussions feels nearly impossible. Outside of school, my depression seeps into my personal life, straining my relationships with friends and family. There are moments when I lack the energy to engage in activities I once enjoyed, leading me to cancel plans or isolate myself from others. I might cancel plans at the last minute or isolate myself from others because being around people feels too exhausting. Even when loved ones visit, I often retreat to my room, unable to muster the strength to socialize. To prioritize my mental health, I've had to develop coping strategies along the way. Opening up to someone I trust, whether a friend, family member, or counselor, provides a sense of relief and reminds me that I'm not alone in this struggle. Self-care has become essential. Taking time for activities like playing with my dog, going for walks, or listening to music offers moments of peace amidst the turmoil. Setting boundaries has been crucial in making sure that I'm okay. Learning to decline commitments that drain my energy or that trigger my anxiety allows me to protect myself without guilt. Above all, I've come to recognize the importance of seeking professional help when needed. Whether through therapy, medication, or other forms of support, reaching out for assistance is not a sign of weakness but a courageous step toward healing. Navigating high school while dealing with mental health challenges isn't easy, but I've learned that it's okay to take things one day at a time. By prioritizing my mental health and finding strategies that work for me, I'm better able to manage the ups and downs that come with being a senior in high school.

As a proud student at South Oak Cliff High School, my journey through high school has been transformative, inspiring me to pursue higher education in medicine and instilling in me a deep commitment to making a positive impact on my community. South Oak Cliff High School has been more than just an educational institution for me; it has been a road for personal and academic growth, shaping my aspirations and molding my dedication to community service. Attending South Oak Cliff High School has been a powerful source of inspiration for my pursuit of higher education. In the hallways of this institution, I witnessed the resilience and determination of my peers and teachers. The diverse and vibrant community at South Oak Cliff has exposed me to a variety of perspectives, backgrounds, and stories, creating an environment that fosters curiosity and a hunger for knowledge. It is this rich tapestry of experiences that has ignited my passion for learning and has driven me to seek further education in medicine as a means of personal and community advancement. My experiences at South Oak Cliff High School have instilled in me a belief in the power of education to break down barriers and create opportunities. I have witnessed the transformative effects of dedicated teachers who go above and beyond to support their students. South Oak Cliff High School, with its rich tapestry of diverse cultures and backgrounds, has served as a place of the broader community I call home. As I navigated the halls, I witnessed firsthand the healthcare disparities that exist in underserved communities. These observations, coupled with personal experiences of family members facing health challenges, stirred within me a deep-seated desire to pursue a career in medicine. Through rigorous academic programs and extracurricular activities, I have gained valuable skills, honed my leadership abilities, and cultivated a strong work ethic. These experiences have laid a foundation for my academic aspirations, and I am eager to continue my education to equip myself with the knowledge and skills needed to contribute meaningfully to society. Beyond academics, South Oak Cliff High School has emphasized the importance of community engagement and service. The school's commitment to fostering a sense of responsibility and civic duty has motivated me to actively contribute to my community. Currently, I have volunteered in my community by giving food to the homeless, hosting our school pantry, and volunteering at hospitals. These experiences not only solidify my commitment to medicine but also allow me to directly impact lives in my community, and have taught me the significance of giving back, and I am committed to leveraging my education to address the pressing issues facing my community. In conclusion, my time at South Oak Cliff High School has been instrumental in shaping my aspirations for a career in medicine. Through academic rigor, personal experiences, and community engagement, I have been inspired to pursue higher education in medicine, driven by a genuine desire to make a lasting impact on the health and well-being of my community. I am eager to embark on this journey, armed with the knowledge gained at South Oak Cliff and fueled by a passion to contribute meaningfully to the field of medicine and the community I hold dear.