I am enrolled in a Masters's expensive graduate program, at Rush University. I am earning my Master's degree in Medical Laboratory Science. My interest in Medical Laboratory Science sparked in the summer of 2019. I interned at HudsonAlpha Summer Undergrad Research Experience in Genomic Medicine (SURE-GM) program in Huntsville, AL. This internship was an eight-week internship learning firsthand about genetics. I also had the opportunity to expand my knowledge and skills by getting hands-on experience with DNA testing, bioinformatics, laboratory skills, and exposure to research opportunities. During the internship, we would get weekly projects using most laboratory equipment and our scientific knowledge. We would work with other students, which was great because we both could learn and understand the importance of science and why scientists use technology to analyze and treat diseases. My experience with this internship opened my eyes and made me realize that I want to work in the lab and deal with health care simultaneously. I knew medical laboratory professions were in high demand due to the need for improvements in the healthcare system. I decided to pursue a career in Medical Laboratory Science because of the benefits and advantages. Becoming an MLS allows me to experience anything beyond what I have learned and apply what I do know to real-life situations. I am passionate about technology and patient healthcare. I love caring for patients, caring, and providing the necessary information needed with various testing techniques behind the scenes. Working in this field is an excellent opportunity to study the effects of disease processes and how I can treat them promptly. As a future MLS, it gives me great pride knowing that patients will trust me to help them live healthier lives. Becoming an MLS will not only mean getting a Master's degree and certification in MLS, but I can also treat diseases and analyze specimens. I will use my scientific knowledge to improve people's health and well-being and serve the community. I deserve this scholarship because I am an innovative problem solver. With this scholarship, I could continue to focus on my studies, and it will release the financial burden of paying for school. This scholarship opportunity will also improve my knowledge and leadership skills. I have advanced in both skills but would need your assistance with continuing. I will be grateful to be considered for this scholarship, and should I be selected, I will use it to advance my education.

Last year in the fall of 2021, I was enrolled in a Clinical Research Scientist Masters Program at UAB in Birmingham, AL. I was excited to begin my journey as a graduate student. About a month into my program, I decided to drop out. This was an extremely depressing time for me. I couldn't afford to keep up with my bills or rent while attending school. During that time I had little to no support from my family or friends, so I had to work for my money. I was also residing in Huntsville, AL, which is about a hour and half away from UAB. Commuting to school daily was tiring and expensive due to paying for gas and food throughout the day. Getting a dorm on campus was tough due to the maximum number of students already in dorms and I was a graduate student, so the chance was really low to getting a dorm on campus. UAB informed me that I was expected to stay near campus. Although I enjoyed every moment at UAB, I made good friends and bonded with my professors. They understood my decision, but I still felt terrible inside because I did not want to pause or put a hold my dreams. Months later after recovering from my depressing state, I pushed myself to apply to graduate school again. I chose not to give up on myself or my dreams. I will continue to pursue my goals and earn my Master's degree in Clinical Research regardless of how long it will take me.