My passion for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) comes from a deep curiosity about how the world works and a strong desire to use that knowledge to make a difference. Ever since I was young, I have been fascinated by the way science explains everyday phenomena — from how our bodies heal to how machines function. As I grew older, that natural curiosity turned into a commitment to understanding complex problems and finding innovative solutions, especially in fields related to health, technology, and improving people’s lives. One defining moment for me was when a family member faced a serious medical issue. I watched how science and technology — from diagnostic tests to treatment plans — played a crucial role in their recovery. It made me realize that STEM isn’t just about theories or numbers; it’s about real-world impact. It saves lives, connects people, and drives society forward. That experience made me determined to pursue a STEM education, with a particular focus on biology, chemistry, and medicine. What excites me most about STEM is the constant challenge and growth it demands. Science is always evolving. There’s always a new discovery, a new technique, or a better way of understanding something. STEM pushes you to think critically, ask hard questions, and never settle for easy answers. I am passionate about being part of that environment — where learning never stops, and where curiosity is not only welcomed but necessary. Another reason I am drawn to STEM is the opportunity to break barriers. As a first-generation college student, I want to step into spaces where people like me have historically been underrepresented. STEM fields need diverse voices and new perspectives. By pursuing an education in STEM, I hope to not only achieve my personal dreams but also open doors for others in my community. Representation matters, and I am passionate about showing that with hard work, it is possible to thrive in these demanding fields. In the future, I hope to apply my STEM education to a career in healthcare, particularly anesthesiology. I want to combine scientific knowledge with human compassion to provide critical care during some of the most vulnerable moments of people’s lives. An education in STEM will give me the technical skills, critical thinking ability, and ethical foundation I need to do this important work with excellence and empathy. Beyond my personal career goals, I also want to use my STEM education to inspire and mentor younger students, especially those who might doubt their ability to succeed in these fields. I believe STEM should be accessible to everyone, not just a select few. By sharing my experiences and offering support, I hope to encourage more students from diverse backgrounds to pursue STEM and believe in their own potential. In short, my passion for STEM is rooted in curiosity, impact, opportunity, and a commitment to opening doors for others. STEM is not just a field of study for me; it’s a lifelong mission to learn, contribute, and lead with purpose.

Growing up, my experiences with finances and financial education were very limited. My family often lived paycheck to paycheck, and conversations about money were usually centered around immediate needs rather than long-term planning. Budgeting was something we did out of necessity, not strategy. I rarely heard discussions about savings accounts, investments, credit, or even college savings plans. As a result, I entered my teenage years with very little understanding of how to manage money beyond simply trying not to spend it all at once. The first time I truly realized the importance of financial education was during high school. I started working part-time jobs and noticed how quickly my earnings could disappear without a plan. Wanting to do better, I began researching on my own — watching videos, reading articles, and talking to mentors who understood finances. I opened my first savings account and learned how to create a basic budget. Still, I often felt like I was playing catch-up compared to others who grew up with stronger financial foundations. Applying for college forced me to confront financial literacy even more seriously. I realized that choosing a school wasn’t just about academics or prestige — it was about making smart financial decisions that would impact my future for decades. Understanding loans, interest rates, scholarships, and the real cost of living helped me make more informed choices. I am proud of the fact that despite the financial challenges, I’ve been able to think critically and creatively about how to afford my education without drowning in debt. However, I know I still have so much to learn. That’s why I am committed to gaining a stronger financial education. I want to master topics like investing, building credit, budgeting for major life events, and eventually creating generational wealth. Financial literacy is not just about personal success — it’s about changing the future for my family and community. In the future, I plan to use what I learn to make smarter financial decisions early on. Whether it’s managing student loans responsibly, saving aggressively for emergencies, or investing wisely to build wealth, I want to set myself up for financial freedom. Additionally, I hope to educate others. Financial literacy is often treated like a secret, only accessible to those with privilege. I want to break that cycle. Whether it's through informal conversations, workshops, or mentorship, I plan to share what I learn with others who, like me, didn’t grow up with these tools readily available. Ultimately, my goal is to create a life where financial stress is not a daily burden. I want to have the freedom to pursue my passions, give back to my community, and support future generations. Building a strong financial foundation isn’t just a personal goal — it’s a way to open doors for others and show that where you start doesn’t have to determine where you end up.

Growing up as the first in my family to pursue a bachelor's degree, let alone a career in medicine, has shaped my determination and resilience. The road to becoming a doctor has never been a simple one for me, as financial hardships and academic struggles have added layers of complexity to my journey. However, these obstacles have only strengthened my resolve. My passion for medicine isn’t just about the science—it’s about the people whose lives I can change, just as mine has been changed by the mentors and experiences that have guided me. My inspiration to pursue medicine began long before I fully understood the field. As a child, I was drawn to the idea of healing—of being the person who could bring relief and comfort to those in pain. But it wasn’t until I joined UCSF Fresno's doctor’s academy five years ago that my aspirations took on a deeper meaning. This program exposed me to the realities of medicine, from shadowing physicians to learning about patient care and the complexities of the healthcare system. It transformed not only my academic mindset but also my understanding of what it truly means to be a doctor. I saw firsthand the dedication, compassion, and skill that the profession demands, and I knew I was willing to give my all to meet those expectations. My passion for helping others extends beyond medicine. In high school, I started my own club, "Operation 2.5 and Above," to support students struggling with low GPAs. I witnessed how academic struggles could impact confidence and future opportunities, much like how my own journey had been shaped by challenges. Leading this club allowed me to not only help others academically but also instill a sense of self-belief in my peers. That same drive to uplift others is what draws me to medicine—I want to be the person who provides care and reassurance to those who need it most. Additionally, my experience as a varsity volleyball player and team captain reinforced my leadership and teamwork skills. As a setter, I had to be strategic, adaptable, and always aware of my teammates’ needs. Medicine, much like volleyball, requires collaboration and quick decision-making. Whether on the court or in a hospital setting, I thrive in high-pressure environments where my ability to think critically and work with others directly impacts outcomes. Ultimately, my journey to medicine is deeply personal. It’s about breaking barriers, seizing opportunities, and dedicating my life to something bigger than myself. My experiences have taught me resilience, compassion, and the value of perseverance. I know the road ahead won’t be easy, but I welcome the challenges because I am driven by a purpose that goes beyond myself. My goal is not only to become a doctor but to use my experiences to inspire others who, like me, are fighting to achieve dreams that once seemed out of reach.

Being a student-athlete has been one of the most defining experiences of my life. For 2.5 years, I was a member of my school’s varsity girls' volleyball team, serving as a captain for one of those years. As the setter, I played a critical role in leading my team, ensuring that every play ran smoothly and that my teammates were in the best position to succeed. Volleyball was more than just a sport to me—it was a lesson in leadership, perseverance, and teamwork, all of which have shaped my future career goals. As a captain, I quickly learned that success wasn’t just about my own performance but about how well I could uplift and support my teammates. I had to be vocal, strategic, and adaptable under pressure. Whether it was calling plays, motivating my teammates after a tough loss, or adjusting our strategy mid-game, I had to think quickly and make decisions that would benefit the entire team. These same skills—communication, adaptability, and teamwork—are the very ones I plan to carry into my future career as an anesthesiologist. Much like setting up plays in volleyball, anesthesiology requires precision and coordination. In the operating room, anesthesiologists work alongside surgeons and nurses, ensuring that patients are stable and safe throughout surgery. Just as I had to anticipate my teammates’ movements on the court, I will need to anticipate the needs of my patients and the surgical team. My experience as a student-athlete has given me the discipline and quick-thinking abilities necessary to thrive in such a high-stakes medical environment. Beyond sports, my greatest passion lies in medicine. I aspire to become an anesthesiologist because I have seen the impact of physician shortages in my community. At my local hospital, a lack of anesthesiologists has caused delays in critical surgeries, leaving families waiting for the care their children desperately need. Witnessing this struggle fueled my desire to step into this field, ensuring that no child has to wait for life-changing treatment. Balancing my responsibilities as a student-athlete with rigorous academic coursework has not always been easy. Taking six AP classes while dedicating hours to practice and games required careful time management and perseverance. There were moments of exhaustion, burnout, and self-doubt, but volleyball taught me how to push through adversity. When faced with challenges, I learned to stay composed, trust my abilities, and keep striving toward my goals—qualities that will serve me well in medicine. Being a student-athlete has shaped me into a leader, a problem solver, and a team player. Whether on the volleyball court or in the operating room, I am committed to leading, adapting, and making a difference in the lives of others. I am confident that the skills I have gained through sports will help me become the kind of anesthesiologist who not only provides exceptional care but also leads with compassion and purpose.

Growing up, I saw firsthand how a shortage of anesthesiologists at my local hospital affected my community. Children in need of surgery faced long wait times, and families were left in distress, uncertain of when their loved ones would receive the care they desperately needed. Witnessing this sparked something in me—I knew I wanted to be the one to change it. I wanted to ensure that no child had to wait for a critical procedure simply because there weren’t enough doctors available. This is why I am determined to become an anesthesiologist and use my education to give back to my community. My journey toward medicine has been shaped by both passion and purpose. As a member of the UCSF Fresno Doctor’s Academy, I have gained exposure to the medical field and seen the gaps in healthcare firsthand. I have also pushed myself academically, taking six AP courses and overcoming challenges like burnout and self-doubt, all with the goal of preparing myself for the rigorous path ahead. Every late-night study session and every obstacle I have faced has only reinforced my commitment to this dream. With a college education, I will have the foundation necessary to pursue medical school and specialize in anesthesiology. My goal is to return to my community and work at the very hospital that struggled with physician shortages, ensuring that no child is denied timely surgical care. Beyond direct patient care, I also hope to mentor aspiring medical students from underrepresented backgrounds, helping them navigate the journey to medicine just as I have. For me, becoming a doctor is not just about personal achievement—it is about making a lasting impact. By pursuing anesthesiology, I will help fill a critical gap in my community’s healthcare system, providing children with the care they need and ensuring that no family has to endure unnecessary delays in treatment.

Growing up in a single-parent household, I witnessed the sacrifices my mother made to provide for my two siblings and me. She worked tirelessly to ensure we had food, shelter, and the opportunity to dream beyond our circumstances. Watching her strength and perseverance shaped my determination to pursue higher education and become the first doctor in my family. My mother has always been my greatest inspiration. Raising three children alone was not easy, yet she never let us feel the weight of her struggles. She worked long hours, often sacrificing her own needs to ensure we had what we needed. Money was scarce at times, but she never let those hardships define our future. She taught me that success isn’t about where you start—it’s about how hard you fight for where you want to be. Despite financial struggles and the absence of academic role models, I refused to let my circumstances limit me. I challenged myself by enrolling in six AP courses and joining the UCSF Fresno Doctor’s Academy, the most prestigious program at my high school. It provided me with the exposure and resources to believe in my dream of becoming a doctor. The journey has not been easy—balancing rigorous coursework while carrying the emotional and financial weight of my family was overwhelming. Late nights of studying led to burnout, and moments of self-doubt crept in, but I refused to give up. Through it all, my mother remained my guiding force. I want to become a doctor not just for myself, but for her—to honor her sacrifices and prove that no obstacle is too great to overcome. My education is the key to breaking barriers, and I am determined to make my dream a reality.

Empowerment, to me, is the ability to take control of my own future, despite the obstacles placed in my path. It means proving that I am not limited by circumstances, expectations, or the doubts of others. True empowerment is about resilience—the strength to push forward even when others tell me I can’t. It is not just about believing in myself, but about actively fighting for my dreams, even when the odds seem stacked against me. For much of my life, I have been told that my dreams were too ambitious. When I first told my dad I wanted to become a doctor, he dismissed the idea, saying that medicine was too hard for a woman and that I should become a nurse instead. His words stung, but instead of discouraging me, they ignited a fire within me. I refused to accept the limitations he placed on me simply because of my gender. Instead, I chose to use his doubt as fuel, proving not only to him but to myself that I was capable of achieving my dream of becoming a doctor. This mindset has shaped my academic journey. Determined to challenge myself, I joined the UCSF Fresno Doctor’s Academy at the high school I attended, the most prestigious and rigorous academy at my school. It was the only academy of its kind on campus, reserved for students who had the passion and dedication to pursue medicine. Being part of it was an honor, but it also came with immense challenges. On top of my academy commitments, I took six AP classes, each demanding a level of effort and focus that sometimes felt impossible to sustain. There were moments when burnout consumed me, when failed test grades made me question my intelligence, and when stress left me feeling overwhelmed. But empowerment means refusing to let obstacles define me. Instead, I pushed forward, refining my study habits, managing my time better, and finding healthier ways to handle stress. I realized that setbacks were not signs of failure, but stepping stones toward success. Beyond my own struggles, I have sought to empower others as well. I created a club called "Operation 2.5 and Above" which was my way of helping students who were struggling academically find the support they needed to improve their grades and confidence. I know what it feels like to doubt yourself, to feel as though success is out of reach. That is why I wanted to create a space where students with GPAs below 2.5 could get mentorship, encouragement, and academic guidance. Empowerment is not just about personal success—it is about lifting others up and showing them that they, too, are capable of greatness. Even outside of academics, empowerment influences how I view the world. I find beauty in thrifting, in giving new life to pre-worn clothing, because in many ways, it mirrors my own journey. Just like a forgotten piece of clothing can be revived and given a new purpose, I believe that people can redefine themselves, no matter where they start. It is a reminder that potential exists everywhere, even in places where others fail to see it. Ultimately, empowerment fuels me in every aspect of my life. It is why I refuse to let financial struggles dictate my education, why I continue to push forward despite challenges, and why I remain steadfast in my dream of becoming a doctor. It reminds me that no matter how difficult the journey, I am capable of achieving greatness—not just for myself, but for those who come after me, proving that limitations are only real if we accept them.

When I first told my dad I wanted to become a doctor, his response was crushing: “You should be a nurse instead. Becoming a doctor is way too hard for a woman.” Those words could have shattered my confidence, but instead, they fueled it. I refused to let anyone, even my own father, define my capabilities or limit my future based on outdated beliefs. I was going to be the first doctor of my family, rather than backing down, I used his doubt as motivation to push forward, determined to prove to him—and more importantly, to myself—that I was capable of achieving my dreams. I took the first step by becoming accepted in the UCSF Fresno Doctor’s Academy at my high school, the most prestigious and rigorous academic program at my school. It was the only program of its kind on campus, reserved for students with the drive and determination to pursue a future in medicine. Being accepted into it was an honor, but the journey was far from easy. I juggled six AP classes, each demanding an immense amount of time and effort. There were times when burnout consumed me, when late-night study sessions led to failed test grades, and when stress made me question if I was truly cut out for this path. The pressure was overwhelming, and the thought of giving up crossed my mind more than once. But every time I doubted myself, I pictured the future I was working toward—the moment I would walk across the stage as a doctor, knowing I had overcome every obstacle in my way. That vision kept me going. I learned to adapt, developing strategies to manage my time more efficiently, seeking help when I needed it, and refusing to let failure define me. I shifted my mindset, viewing each setback as a learning opportunity rather than a dead end. I reminded myself that resilience isn’t about never falling—it’s about always getting back up. Despite the challenges, I never lost sight of my passion. In fact, the struggles only deepened my commitment to medicine. I realized that if I could endure the hardships of high school with the mental battles that I faced, I could handle the rigorous road ahead. My dad’s words, once meant to deter me, have become a constant reminder of why I push forward. This journey isn’t just about proving a point—it’s about proving to myself that I have what it takes to become the doctor I have always dreamed of being.

Throughout my journey toward becoming a doctor, I’ve been driven by a deep commitment to helping others, especially those from underserved communities. One of the most transformative experiences has been my involvement in a doctor’s academy, where I worked with individuals from diverse, often underrepresented backgrounds. This opportunity sparked my passion for both healthcare and social justice, guiding me to seek out initiatives that could make a meaningful impact, particularly for those without access to quality healthcare or education. A key initiative in my journey has been creating a student-led organization called “Operation 2.5 and Above.” This club was born out of empathy for students, like me, who struggled academically. When I first arrived at school, I noticed many peers, particularly those with GPAs below 2.5, were at risk of failing or even not being able to graduate. There was a gap in support for these students, so I decided to take action. “Operation 2.5 and Above” aimed to provide academic support and mentorship to students at risk of academic failure. Our mission was simple: help students overcome challenges and build the confidence to raise their GPA and excel. The deeper goal, however, was to show them that their academic struggles didn’t define their potential. With the right support, they could turn their journeys around. I began by reaching out to faculty members to ask if they would volunteer time for tutoring or academic advice. I also recruited upperclassmen who had excelled in their coursework and were passionate about mentoring. Together, we created a network committed to student success. Through weekly study sessions, one-on-one tutoring, and group workshops, we helped students develop the academic skills and emotional resilience needed to thrive. What stood out most was how much the students transformed—not only in their grades but in their mindset. Many initially felt that their low GPA reflected their intelligence or worth, causing a lack of motivation. But with consistent support, they began to see that improvement was possible. One of our most successful stories involved a student who started with a 1.8 GPA and, through tutoring and peer motivation, raised it above a 3.0 within a year. This student regained graduation eligibility and is on track to graduate class of 2025. Beyond academics, “Operation 2.5 and Above” became a space for students to form lasting friendships and bonds over shared experiences. It fostered a sense of community, which proved just as crucial as academic support. This experience taught me that powerful leadership often involves providing resources, guidance, and encouragement to others, rather than being in front. The success of this initiative reinforced my belief that real change comes from collaboration, empathy, and a shared commitment to helping others. As I continue my journey toward becoming a doctor, I am dedicated to creating similar support networks in healthcare, where education, mentorship, and community can uplift those who need it most.

One of my primary academic and professional goals is to become the first medical professional in my family, specifically a doctor. Medicine is not just a career choice for me—it is a calling. My passion for this field has been reinforced through my experiences at the UCSF Fresno Sunnyside Doctors Academy, where I have spent my high school years immersing myself in medical education and hands-on learning opportunities. This program has provided me with invaluable exposure to the healthcare field, strengthening my resolve to pursue a career in medicine. Over the summer, I had the incredible opportunity to shadow a surgeon, an experience that solidified my ambition to become a physician. During my time in the operating room, I witnessed firsthand the challenges that many patients face—not because their conditions were untreatable, but because of systemic issues such as limited OR space and a shortage of anesthesiologists. Seeing children unable to receive the surgeries they desperately needed due to these limitations deeply impacted me. It was in those moments that I realized the critical role anesthesiologists play in ensuring patients receive timely and effective care. This experience fueled my passion to become an anesthesiologist, so I can help bridge this gap and make a meaningful difference in patient care. Beyond my academic aspirations, I have always been dedicated to giving back to my community. Through the UCSF Fresno Sunnyside Doctors Academy, I have engaged in various outreach programs, mentoring younger students who aspire to enter the medical field. I understand the importance of representation and support, especially for those who, like me, are breaking barriers within their families. I take great pride in guiding others, offering them the encouragement and resources that have been instrumental in my own journey. Additionally, I have volunteered at community health fairs and local clinics, providing basic health education and assisting in patient care initiatives. These experiences have shown me the profound impact that even small contributions can have on improving healthcare accessibility. Witnessing the gratitude of individuals who receive care has inspired me to continue serving underserved communities throughout my medical career. My goal is to not only practice medicine but to advocate for systemic improvements that will ensure all patients receive the care they need, regardless of their background or financial status. The challenges I have faced—whether it be navigating the complexities of becoming the first doctor in my family, or witnessing firsthand the disparities within the healthcare system—have only strengthened my determination. I am committed to using my education and experiences to drive positive change in medicine. I want to contribute to the field not just as a practitioner, but as an advocate for improved healthcare accessibility. Through perseverance and dedication, I hope to inspire others from similar backgrounds to pursue their dreams and make a lasting impact in the world of medicine.

The STEM field has always fascinated me due to its constant evolution. It is a realm where knowledge is never stagnant, and every breakthrough paves the way for new questions and innovations. My interest in this field stems from its adaptability and the continuous learning it requires. Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics are interconnected in ways that shape our world, and I am eager to be part of that transformative force. As someone who thrives on challenges and new experiences, I find immense joy in the idea that the STEM field is never the same from one moment to the next. Every day presents an opportunity to learn, explore, and contribute to something greater than myself. My aspiration to become a doctor is deeply rooted in my desire to make a meaningful impact on people’s lives. The medical field is a perfect intersection of my passion for STEM and my commitment to helping others. Medicine is not just about treating ailments—it is about innovation, problem-solving, and a dedication to lifelong learning. I want to be a physician who not only provides care but also contributes to medical advancements. Whether through research, patient advocacy, or pioneering new treatments, my goal is to leave a lasting mark on the field. Science is ever-changing, and so is healthcare. The ability to adapt and grow with the field excites me, and I look forward to a career where every day presents new challenges and opportunities to improve lives. Beyond my academic aspirations, I also hope to serve as a source of inspiration for those who, like me, come from backgrounds where becoming a doctor is not the norm. I am the first in my family to pursue a college degree, and I understand the weight of breaking generational barriers. Representation in medicine matters, and I want to be a role model for young students who may not see themselves reflected in the field. By succeeding in this journey, I hope to demonstrate that with perseverance, passion, and resilience, any goal is achievable. Furthermore, I want to advocate for equitable healthcare, ensuring that advancements in medicine benefit all communities, not just those with access to the best resources. The path to my goals has not been without its challenges. Coming from a family where higher education was uncharted territory, I had to navigate the complexities of college applications, financial aid, and academic pressures largely on my own. This added a layer of stress to my decision-making, as I constantly balanced my aspirations with the reality of my circumstances. However, a life-changing phone call offering me a spot in a doctor’s academy transformed my trajectory. Over the past five years, this program has shaped my academic journey, strengthened my mindset, and solidified my ambition to become a doctor. It provided me with mentors, hands-on experiences, and an environment where I could thrive despite the challenges I faced. The STEM field’s ever-changing nature aligns perfectly with my adaptability and eagerness to learn. My journey thus far has been shaped by challenges, but they have only strengthened my resolve. I look forward to a future where I can make a meaningful impact in medicine, contribute to the advancement of healthcare, and inspire others to pursue their dreams, no matter the obstacles they face.