I was first diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in 2020, the thick of quarantine as I was 12 years old. I vividly remembering being so filled with shame and embarrassment, not wanting anyone to ever find out. Instead of recognizing that my body simply needed help, I feared they would associate diabetes with harmful stereotypes or judge me before truly knowing me. At such a young age, that fear felt heavy and unshakable. This quickly changed when I decided I wanted to live a life of helping and serving others. I made up the word 'personarian'. A word that, to me, meant I would focus on helping people. My young and naive brain neglected the normal term for this career path: doctor, therapist, ect. But for that reason, my heart remained in passion for the chance to simply help people. I overcame many unhealthy and broken friendships that made me feel insecure of my diabetes, unworthy and even unwanted. When 2021 hit, we decided to move and went more north in the sunshine state of Florida. Throughout this move and transition into settling, there were many doctors and changes to be made to find a sense of comfort and stability. My mom and I traveled to many different doctors, looking for one that felt right, offered the proper treatments, medicine and diagnosis centers. Although even still today I say our search continues, it only further empowered me to want to speak out and be open about my diabetic journey. Managing diabetes is not something that ever completely disappears — it becomes a lifelong journey of learning and adapting. As a pill-decent diabetic, I have never had to take insulin and rely heavily on cautious food intake and responsible monitoring of blood sugars and quarterly A1C. I explain this all to say, the diabetic community all carries people with different stories, backgrounds and diagnosis's. But I know it is all for a purpose and I choose to be someone who uses my diabetic experiences and diagnosis to help others and show others that kindness is not earned or designated for specificity- but should be extended to all. My experiences taught me how important kindness truly is because you never know what someone else may be silently battling. Today, instead of hiding my diagnosis, I choose to speak openly about it in hopes of helping others feel less alone and build a better world of love and light.

Finding my seat at the Lord’s table was an unexpected invitation. I sat on a Wednesday night surrounded by kids, just like me, lifting their hands and worshipping. I stood in awe of the presence revolving around the room- wondering if there was more to faith of being just a holiday, but a relationship. I grew up with a blend of religious beliefs in my household. My mom grew up being Orthodox Jewish, while her dad was Catholic. My dad grew up Jewish, but never grew a relationship with God outside the traditions he was accustomed to. My parents chose openness as they raised me and my sisters- we would celebrate all holidays and could honor God in whatever way we chose as adults. Even with having a Christian stepdad, I was exposed to Christianity but never welcomed into it. Religion felt more like something I did to honor my grandparents, than it was to connect with God. By the Spring semester of my freshman year, the difference between what I expected for high school and what my year actually consisted of was eye opening. I was ready for the movie version of being a teenager- fun, free will, dating. I found myself lost in brokenness over relationships that chose jealousy over encouragement. While also walking through verbal abuse at home that struck me more than the valleys of difficult friendships. Anxiousness and doubt flooded my mind daily. That was until my older sister’s friend had invited us to a youth group, I arrived hesitant but curious. As worship filled the room, I watched students, just like me, sing and lift their hands freely. I felt my heart shift and heal. It didn’t take long for me to dive into all that God had called me to, knowing I was on the brink of freedom. Adoption into God’s family changed my heart and passions. I stepped into positions and postures where He used me to share the love I found in Him. Leadership opportunities built my faith and knowing of my worth in Him. Leading school clubs and organizations, our worship team, and outreach programs that furthered this sharing of the gospel through small spaces and big opportunities. This flowed throughout my academics- pursuing stewardship and intentionality as I kept Him the center. As a straight-A honors student, I quickly recognized the need for a posture that honors the Lord and serves His kingdom through my education and school. To have a shift in the purpose of my furthered education to be one of making a difference and using the wisdom He had given me to deepen my discipleship. With the help of this scholarship, I would wear my testimony as a sword of honor going into college. My story, the one He wrote so perfectly and in His timing, encaptures my heart for Him. To my background and respect for traditions, the seasons that brought me to my lowest but built me to the highest, the church community that supported me and the academic discipline that led me to having a passion for service. I hope to serve through my worship, student experiences/connections and my studies. To show others that there’s an invitation to a seat at the Lord’s table for them, too.

Finding my seat at the Lord’s table was an unexpected invitation. I sat on a Wednesday night surrounded by kids, just like me, lifting their hands and worshipping. I stood in awe of the presence revolving around the room- wondering if there was more to faith of being just a holiday, but a relationship. By the Spring semester of my freshman year, the difference between what I expected for high school and what my year actually consisted of was eye opening. I was ready for the movie version of being a teenager- fun, free will, dating. I found myself lost in brokenness over relationships that chose jealousy over encouragement. While also walking through verbal abuse at home that struck me more than the valleys of difficult friendships. Anxiousness and doubt flooded my mind daily. That was until my older sister’s friend had invited us to a youth group, I arrived hesitant but curious. As worship filled the room, I watched students, just like me, sing and lift their hands freely. I felt my heart shift and heal. It didn’t take long for me to dive into all that God had called me to, knowing I was on the brink of freedom. Adoption into God’s family changed my heart and passions. I stepped into positions and postures where He used me to share the love I found in Him. Leadership opportunities built my faith and knowing of my worth in Him. Leading school clubs and organizations, our worship team, and outreach programs that furthered this sharing of the gospel through small spaces and big opportunities. This flowed throughout my academics- pursuing stewardship and intentionality as I kept Him the center. As a straight-A honors student, I quickly recognized the need for a posture that honors the Lord and serves His kingdom through my education and school. To have a shift in the purpose of my furthered education to be one of making a difference and using the wisdom He had given me to deepen my discipleship. This past year I helped to move someone I love into Southeastern University. Spending that one day on campus changed everything for me. Seeing the opportunity for community, spiritual depth, academic continuation and focus had sharpened my eyes and heart of the certainty I felt that I was meant to be there. With this scholarship, I would wear my testimony as a sword of honor as I step into college. My story, the one He wrote so perfectly and in His timing, encaptures my heart for Him. To my background and respect for traditions, the seasons that brought me to my lowest but built me to the highest, the church community that supported me and the academic discipline that led me to having a passion for service. I hope to serve through my worship, student experiences/connections and my studies. To show others that there’s an invitation to a seat at the Lord’s table for them, too. I will use the truth of the His Word to co tin in spreading kindness, service, outreach and love everywhere I go.

Finding my seat at the Lord’s table was an unexpected invitation. I sat on a Wednesday night surrounded by kids, just like me, lifting their hands and worshipping. I stood in awe of the presence revolving around the room- wondering if there was more to faith of being just a holiday, but a relationship. I grew up with a blend of religious beliefs in my household. My mom grew up being Orthodox Jewish, while her dad was Catholic. My dad grew up Jewish, but never grew a relationship with God outside the traditions he was accustomed to. My parents chose openness as they raised me and my sisters- we would celebrate all holidays and could honor God in whatever way we chose as adults. Even with having a Christian stepdad, I was exposed to Christianity but never welcomed into it. Religion felt more like something I did to honor my grandparents, than it was to connect with God. By the Spring semester of my freshman year, the difference between what I expected for high school and what my year actually consisted of was eye opening. I was ready for the movie version of being a teenager- fun, free will, dating. I found myself lost in brokenness over relationships that chose jealousy over encouragement. While also walking through verbal abuse at home that struck me more than the valleys of difficult friendships. Anxiousness and doubt flooded my mind daily. That was until my older sister’s friend had invited us to a youth group, I arrived hesitant but curious. As worship filled the room, I watched students, just like me, sing and lift their hands freely. I felt my heart shift and heal. It didn’t take long for me to dive into all that God had called me to, knowing I was on the brink of freedom. My surrender to Him was sincere, but not at all simple. My parents were very hesitant of my sudden faith and devotion. For over a year, I walked through extremely hard conversations, painful words and judgement on my commitment to Him. I now look back more grateful than ever that I did not have to walk alone. My community gathered and rallied around me, leading up to my baptism on January 21, 2024. My family is one of my biggest blessings and has continued to be one of my biggest lessons. That day has marked me; not only a declaration of my love and life to God, but of reverence to still pursue my family in those seasons. By His will, today, they walk in their own relationship with Jesus too. Adoption into God’s family changed my heart and passions. I stepped into positions and postures where He used me to share the love I found in Him. Leadership opportunities built my faith and knowing of my worth in Him. Leading school clubs and organizations, our worship team, and outreach programs that furthered this sharing of the gospel through small spaces and big opportunities. This flowed throughout my academics- pursuing stewardship and intentionality as I kept Him the center. As a straight-A honors student, I quickly recognized the need for a posture that honors the Lord and serves His kingdom through my education and school. To have a shift in the purpose of my furthered education to be one of making a difference and using the wisdom He had given me to deepen my discipleship. Seeing the opportunity for community, spiritual depth, academic continuation and focus had sharpened my eyes and heart of the certainty I felt to go into a life of ministry and service through the recipiency of this scholarship. In continuing my education to pursue ministry, I would wear my testimony as a sword of honor. My story, the one He wrote so perfectly and in His timing, encaptures my heart for Him. To my background and respect for traditions, the seasons that brought me to my lowest but built me to the highest, the church community that supported me and the academic discipline that led me to having a passion for service. I hope to serve through my worship, student experiences/connections and my studies. To show others that there’s an invitation to a seat at the Lord’s table for them, too.

Finding my seat at the Lord’s table was an unexpected invitation. I sat on a Wednesday night surrounded by kids, just like me, lifting their hands and worshipping. I stood in awe of the presence revolving around the room- wondering if there was more to faith of being just a holiday, but a relationship. I grew up with a blend of religious beliefs in my household. My mom grew up being Orthodox Jewish, while her dad was Catholic. My dad grew up Jewish, but never grew a relationship with God outside the traditions he was accustomed to. My parents chose openness as they raised me and my sisters- we would celebrate all holidays and could honor God in whatever way we chose as adults. Even with having a Christian stepdad, I was exposed to Christianity but never welcomed into it. Religion felt more like something I did to honor my grandparents, than it was to connect with God. By the Spring semester of my freshman year, the difference between what I expected for high school and what my year actually consisted of was eye opening. I was ready for the movie version of being a teenager- fun, free will, dating. I found myself lost in brokenness over relationships that chose jealousy over encouragement. While also walking through verbal abuse at home that struck me more than the valleys of difficult friendships. Anxiousness and doubt flooded my mind daily. That was until my older sister’s friend had invited us to a youth group, I arrived hesitant but curious. As worship filled the room, I watched students, just like me, sing and lift their hands freely. I felt my heart shift and heal. It didn’t take long for me to dive into all that God had called me to, knowing I was on the brink of freedom. My surrender to Him was sincere, but not at all simple. My parents were very hesitant of my sudden faith and devotion. For over a year, I walked through extremely hard conversations, painful words and judgement on my commitment to Him. I now look back more grateful than ever that I did not have to walk alone. My community gathered and rallied around me, leading up to my baptism on January 21, 2024. My family is one of my biggest blessings and has continued to be one of my biggest lessons. That day has marked me; not only a declaration of my love and life to God, but of reverence to still pursue my family in those seasons. By His will, today, they walk in their own relationship with Jesus too. Adoption into God’s family changed my heart and passions. I stepped into positions and postures where He used me to share the love I found in Him. Leadership opportunities built my faith and knowing of my worth in Him. Leading school clubs and organizations, our worship team, and outreach programs that furthered this sharing of the gospel through small spaces and big opportunities. This flowed throughout my academics- pursuing stewardship and intentionality as I kept Him the center. As a straight-A honors student, I quickly recognized the need for a posture that honors the Lord and serves His kingdom through my education and school. To have a shift in the purpose of my furthered education to be one of making a difference and using the wisdom He had given me to deepen my discipleship.

At the end of my freshman year, I started serving on my youth group's worship team at my church. I was not raised in the church or raised to know the Lord and being a part of a team like this, leading and pouring into the next generation was what sparked my passion for outreach and community involvement. Being up on a stage every week, pouring into students older and younger than me, being positive and encouraging na most of all- building up a community of strong and trusting leaders bled into everything I would soon accomplish in my school as well. I quickly joined my student government, student council, key club, best buddies and any club that allowed the opportunity to reach people and serve others. All of which led to my Senior now, the present day, where I used those same skills implemented from serving and leading worship as I do in being President of those same clubs; student government, council and best buddies. I stepped into positions and postures where He used me to share the love I found in Him. Leadership opportunities built my faith and knowing of my worth in Him. Leading school clubs and organizations, our worship team, and outreach programs that furthered this sharing of the gospel through small spaces and big opportunities. This flowed throughout my academics- pursuing stewardship and intentionality as I kept Him the center. As a straight-A honors student, I quickly recognized the need for a posture that honors the Lord and serves His kingdom through my education and school. To have a shift in the purpose of my furthered education to be one of making a difference and using the wisdom He had given me to deepen my discipleship. Leadership is not only the stewardship over others, but the consistent choice made to bet the person you hope to see in others. Leadership is not only the funding of the next generation and others around you, but the fueling of the mission to build and encourage. I know with absolute certainty I wouldn't who I am today if it weren't for those first steps into serving, that I would fall in love with outreach and involvement up till today. To my background and respect for traditions, the seasons that brought me to my lowest but built me to the highest, the church community that supported me and the academic discipline that led me to having a passion for service. I hope to serve through my worship, student experiences/connections and my studies.

Finding my seat at the Lord’s table was an unexpected invitation. I sat on a Wednesday night surrounded by kids, just like me, lifting their hands and worshipping. I stood in awe of the presence revolving around the room- wondering if there was more to faith of being just a holiday, but a relationship. I grew up with a blend of religious beliefs in my household. My mom grew up being Orthodox Jewish, while her dad was Catholic. My dad grew up Jewish, but never grew a relationship with God outside the traditions he was accustomed to. My parents chose openness as they raised me and my sisters- we would celebrate all holidays and could honor God in whatever way we chose as adults. Even with having a Christian stepdad, I was exposed to Christianity but never welcomed into it. Religion felt more like something I did to honor my grandparents, than it was to connect with God. By the Spring semester of my freshman year, the difference between what I expected for high school and what my year actually consisted of was eye opening. I was ready for the movie version of being a teenager- fun, free will, dating. I found myself lost in brokenness over relationships that chose jealousy over encouragement. While also walking through verbal abuse at home that struck me more than the valleys of difficult friendships. Anxiousness and doubt flooded my mind daily. That was until my older sister’s friend had invited us to a youth group, I arrived hesitant but curious. As worship filled the room, I watched students, just like me, sing and lift their hands freely. I felt my heart shift and heal. It didn’t take long for me to dive into all that God had called me to, knowing I was on the brink of freedom. My surrender to Him was sincere, but not at all simple. My parents were very hesitant of my sudden faith and devotion. For over a year, I walked through extremely hard conversations, painful words and judgement on my commitment to Him. I now look back more grateful than ever that I did not have to walk alone. My community gathered and rallied around me, leading up to my baptism on January 21, 2024. My family is one of my biggest blessings and has continued to be one of my biggest lessons. That day has marked me; not only a declaration of my love and life to God, but of reverence to still pursue my family in those seasons. By His will, today, they walk in their own relationship with Jesus too. Adoption into God’s family changed my heart and passions. I stepped into positions and postures where He used me to share the love I found in Him. Leadership opportunities built my faith and knowing of my worth in Him. Leading school clubs and organizations, our worship team, and outreach programs that furthered this sharing of the gospel through small spaces and big opportunities. My story, the one He wrote so perfectly and in His timing, encapsulates my heart for Him. To my background and respect for traditions, the seasons that brought me to my lowest but built me to the highest, the church community that supported me and the academic discipline that led me to having a passion for service. I hope to serve through my worship, student experience and connection and my studies. To show others that there’s an invitation to a seat at the Lord table for them, too

Finding my seat at the Lord’s table was an unexpected invitation. I sat on a Wednesday night surrounded by kids, just like me, lifting their hands and worshipping. I stood in awe of the presence revolving around the room- wondering if there was more to faith of being just a holiday, but a relationship. By the Spring semester of my freshman year, the difference between what I expected for high school and what my year actually consisted of was eye opening. I was ready for the movie version of being a teenager- fun, free will, dating. I found myself lost in brokenness over relationships that chose jealousy over encouragement. While also walking through verbal abuse at home that struck me more than the valleys of difficult friendships. Anxiousness and doubt flooded my mind daily. That was until my older sister’s friend had invited us to a youth group, I arrived hesitant but curious. As worship filled the room, I watched students, just like me, sing and lift their hands freely. I felt my heart shift and heal. It didn’t take long for me to dive into all that God had called me to, knowing I was on the brink of freedom. My surrender to Him was sincere, but not at all simple. My parents were very hesitant of my sudden faith and devotion. For over a year, I walked through extremely hard conversations, painful words and judgement on my commitment to Him. I now look back more grateful than ever that I did not have to walk alone. My community gathered and rallied around me, leading up to my baptism on January 21, 2024. My family is one of my biggest blessings and has continued to be one of my biggest lessons. That day has marked me; not only a declaration of my love and life to God, but of reverence to still pursue my family in those seasons. By His will, today, they walk in their own relationship with Jesus too. Adoption into God’s family changed my heart and passions. I stepped into positions and postures where He used me to share the love I found in Him. Leadership opportunities built my faith and knowing of my worth in Him. Leading school clubs and organizations, our worship team, and outreach programs that furthered this sharing of the gospel through small spaces and big opportunities. This flowed throughout my academics- pursuing stewardship and intentionality as I kept Him the center. As a straight-A honors student, I quickly recognized the need for a posture that honors the Lord and serves His kingdom through my education and school. To have a shift in the purpose of my furthered education to be one of making a difference and using the wisdom He had given me to deepen my discipleship. My story, the one He wrote so perfectly and in His timing, encapsulates my heart for Him. To my background and respect for traditions, the seasons that brought me to my lowest but built me to the highest, the church community that supported me and the academic discipline that led me to having a passion for service. I hope to serve through my worship, student experience and connection and my studies. To show others that there’s an invitation to a seat at the Lord table for them, too

Finding my seat at the Lord’s table was an unexpected invitation. I sat on a Wednesday night surrounded by kids, just like me, lifting their hands and worshipping. I stood in awe of the presence revolving around the room- wondering if there was more to faith of being just a holiday, but a relationship. I grew up with a blend of religious beliefs in my household. My mom grew up being Orthodox Jewish, while her dad was Catholic. My dad grew up Jewish, but never grew a relationship with God outside the traditions he was accustomed to. My parents chose openness as they raised me and my sisters- we would celebrate all holidays and could honor God in whatever way we chose as adults. Even with having a Christian stepdad, I was exposed to Christianity but never welcomed into it. Religion felt more like something I did to honor my grandparents, than it was to connect with God. By the Spring semester of my freshman year, the difference between what I expected for high school and what my year actually consisted of was eye opening. I was ready for the movie version of being a teenager- fun, free will, dating. I found myself lost in brokenness over relationships that chose jealousy over encouragement. While also walking through verbal abuse at home that struck me more than the valleys of difficult friendships. Anxiousness and doubt flooded my mind daily. That was until my older sister’s friend had invited us to a youth group, I arrived hesitant but curious. As worship filled the room, I watched students, just like me, sing and lift their hands freely. I felt my heart shift and heal. It didn’t take long for me to dive into all that God had called me to, knowing I was on the brink of freedom. My surrender to Him was sincere, but not at all simple. My parents were very hesitant of my sudden faith and devotion. For over a year, I walked through extremely hard conversations, painful words and judgement on my commitment to Him. I now look back more grateful than ever that I did not have to walk alone. My community gathered and rallied around me, leading up to my baptism on January 21, 2024. My family is one of my biggest blessings and has continued to be one of my biggest lessons. That day has marked me; not only a declaration of my love and life to God, but of reverence to still pursue my family in those seasons. By His will, today, they walk in their own relationship with Jesus too. Adoption into God’s family changed my heart and passions. I stepped into positions and postures where He used me to share the love I found in Him. Leadership opportunities built my faith and knowing of my worth in Him. Leading school clubs and organizations, our worship team, and outreach programs that furthered this sharing of the gospel through small spaces and big opportunities. This flowed throughout my academics- pursuing stewardship and intentionality as I kept Him the center. As a straight-A honors student, I quickly recognized the need for a posture that honors the Lord and serves His kingdom through my education and school. To have a shift in the purpose of my furthered education to be one of making a difference and using the wisdom He had given me to deepen my discipleship. My story, the one He wrote so perfectly and in His timing, encapsulates my heart for Him. To my background and respect for traditions, the seasons that brought me to my lowest but built me to the highest, the church community that supported me and the academic discipline that led me to having a passion for service. I hope to serve through my worship, student experience and connection and my studies. To show others that there’s an invitation to a seat at the Lord table for them, too

The office buzzer rings into my quiet, testtaking classroom. Calling out for early dismissal, I innocently packed my things. Walking across campus to meet with Momma; her cheeks stained and traumatized with tears. Questioning her arrival and my absence, the words barely roll off her lips without a shriek. The immediate wails and confusion of my frustrated tears hitting my chest escaped the eyes I could no longer bear to hold open. He died at 16. Barely any life yet lived, yet a heart so big it used to beat for me. A stroke he never should’ve carried. I questioned God in His will for my dear friend’s life, so early being taken from the people who love him. I waved the white flag as thoughts of regret rushed into my mind of the things I never got to say, and the things I never got to take back. I wanted to understand how a body, so intricately and specifically made, could have had such a small, undetectable condition and yet it successfully took my friend before I got to say goodbye. That helplessness in the midst of losses and understanding medical conditions would stop then and there. My heart and passion for a future career seemed to fall into place the summer before senior year. As the only questions I would be hearing for the next 10 months to be answered with what college and major I would chase after. I couldn’t shake the peaceful notion that I was made for more in helping others. It didn’t take long for me to embrace the calling I had on my life that one day at 7 years old, innocent and naively walking through my days. I used to think I wasn’t cut out for a medical career, that my emotional and sensitive connection to my passion for medicine would be a disadvantage. Instead, that blessing and gift of my love and true desire for being connected to medicine is exactly how I know it's what I need to do. I’m proud of my story, and the things I’ve walked through in order to get me to where I am today in fully trusting in the goodness of my future. I will no longer walk conformed to the lies and fears of my experiences tied to me, but will walk transformed in the knowing of just how much I will be used to reach others through the fruitfulness of those experiences.

Finding my seat at the Lord’s table was an unexpected invitation. I sat on a Wednesday night surrounded by kids, just like me, lifting their hands and worshipping. I stood in awe of the presence revolving around the room- wondering if there was more to faith of being just a holiday, but a relationship. I grew up with a blend of religious beliefs in my household. My mom grew up being Orthodox Jewish, while her dad was Catholic. My dad grew up Jewish, but never grew a relationship with God outside the traditions he was accustomed to. My parents chose openness as they raised me and my sisters- we would celebrate all holidays and could honor God in whatever way we chose as adults. Even with having a Christian stepdad, I was exposed to Christianity but never welcomed into it. Religion felt more like something I did to honor my grandparents, than it was to connect with God. By the Spring semester of my freshman year, the difference between what I expected for high school and what my year actually consisted of was eye opening. I was ready for the movie version of being a teenager- fun, free will, dating. I found myself lost in brokenness over relationships that chose jealousy over encouragement. While also walking through verbal abuse at home that struck me more than the valleys of difficult friendships. Anxiousness and doubt flooded my mind daily. That was until my older sister’s friend had invited us to a youth group, I arrived hesitant but curious. As worship filled the room, I watched students, just like me, sing and lift their hands freely. I felt my heart shift and heal. It didn’t take long for me to dive into all that God had called me to, knowing I was on the brink of freedom. My surrender to Him was sincere, but not at all simple. My parents were very hesitant of my sudden faith and devotion. For over a year, I walked through extremely hard conversations, painful words and judgement on my commitment to Him. I now look back more grateful than ever that I did not have to walk alone. My community gathered and rallied around me, leading up to my baptism on January 21, 2024. My family is one of my biggest blessings and has continued to be one of my biggest lessons. That day has marked me; not only a declaration of my love and life to God, but of reverence to still pursue my family in those seasons. By His will, today, they walk in their own relationship with Jesus too. Adoption into God’s family changed my heart and passions. I stepped into positions and postures where He used me to share the love I found in Him. Leadership opportunities built my faith and knowing of my worth in Him. Leading school clubs and organizations, our worship team, and outreach programs that furthered this sharing of the gospel through small spaces and big opportunities. This flowed throughout my academics- pursuing stewardship and intentionality as I kept Him the center. As a straight-A honors student, I quickly recognized the need for a posture that honors the Lord and serves His kingdom through my education and school. To have a shift in the purpose of my furthered education to be one of making a difference and using the wisdom He had given me to deepen my discipleship. My story, the one He wrote so perfectly and in His timing, encapsulates my heart for Him. To my background and respect for traditions, the seasons that brought me to my lowest but built me to the highest, the church community that supported me and the academic discipline that led me to having a passion for service. I hope to serve through my worship, student experience and connection and my studies. To show others that there’s an invitation to a seat at the Lord table for them, too

Finding my seat at the Lord’s table was an unexpected invitation. I sat on a Wednesday night surrounded by kids, just like me, lifting their hands and worshipping. I stood in awe of the presence revolving around the room- wondering if there was more to faith of being just a holiday, but a relationship. I grew up with a blend of religious beliefs in my household. My mom grew up being Orthodox Jewish, while her dad was Catholic. My dad grew up Jewish, but never grew a relationship with God outside the traditions he was accustomed to. My parents chose openness as they raised me and my sisters- we would celebrate all holidays and could honor God in whatever way we chose as adults. Even with having a Christian stepdad, I was exposed to Christianity but never welcomed into it. Religion felt more like something I did to honor my grandparents, than it was to connect with God. By the Spring semester of my freshman year, the difference between what I expected for high school and what my year actually consisted of was eye opening. I was ready for the movie version of being a teenager- fun, free will, dating. I found myself lost in brokenness over relationships that chose jealousy over encouragement. While also walking through verbal abuse at home that struck me more than the valleys of difficult friendships. Anxiousness and doubt flooded my mind daily. That was until my older sister’s friend had invited us to a youth group, I arrived hesitant but curious. As worship filled the room, I watched students, just like me, sing and lift their hands freely. I felt my heart shift and heal. It didn’t take long for me to dive into all that God had called me to, knowing I was on the brink of freedom. My surrender to Him was sincere, but not at all simple. My parents were very hesitant of my sudden faith and devotion. For over a year, I walked through extremely hard conversations, painful words and judgement on my commitment to Him. I now look back more grateful than ever that I did not have to walk alone. My community gathered and rallied around me, leading up to my baptism on January 21, 2024. My family is one of my biggest blessings and has continued to be one of my biggest lessons. That day has marked me; not only a declaration of my love and life to God, but of reverence to still pursue my family in those seasons. By His will, today, they walk in their own relationship with Jesus too. Adoption into God’s family changed my heart and passions. I stepped into positions and postures where He used me to share the love I found in Him. Leadership opportunities built my faith and knowing of my worth in Him. Leading school clubs and organizations, our worship team, and outreach programs that furthered this sharing of the gospel through small spaces and big opportunities. This flowed throughout my academics- pursuing stewardship and intentionality as I kept Him the center. As a straight-A honors student, I quickly recognized the need for a posture that honors the Lord and serves His kingdom through my education and school. To have a shift in the purpose of my further education to be one of making a difference and using the wisdom He had given me to deepen my discipleship. To show others that there’s an invitation to a seat at the Lord table for them, too

The striking, yet faint sound of choking awakes me as the clock reads 5:36 AM. I sit up and rub my eyes, looking across the dark and somber room to see her violently shaking and seizing. The floor shook as my feet propelled from once they were tucked in. The screams and cries for help echoed the hallway, prayerfully reaching Momma’s room. The helplessness set in of childhood innocence and naive unknowings. Sharing a room with my younger sister quickly became more of an anxious responsibility than a fun roommate to share with. I was always the one to cry out for help. I would think back to my 7 year old self, telling her teachers she was one day going to be a ‘personarian,’ the idea of being a veterinarian but for people…the word ‘doctor’ slipping her mind as she ate cheerios with Barney playing in the back. I have continued to share a room with my sister the entirety of her life- a true privilege, blessing and stress many can only empathize with. The day after her most recent seizure I laid on my bed waiting for my mom to be ready to take me to school, when my eyes went blurry and dark. I attempted to stand up and get water, in which I fell to the floor completely losing balance. My chest clenched as if an elephant had impeded on it. My rosacea cheeks and freckles managed to go completely white as I managed to find my mom for help. Her aid and comfort was enough to acknowledge the panic and anxiousness attacking my mind in preparation for another seizure happening on my watch. That helplessness of not knowing what to do in medical situations would stop then and there. The office buzzer rings into my quiet, test taking classroom. Calling out for early dismissal, I innocently packed my things. Walking across campus to meet with Momma; her cheeks stained and traumatized with tears. Questioning her arrival and my absence, the words barely roll off her lips without a shriek. The immediate wails and confusion of my frustrated tears hitting my chest escaped the eyes I could no longer bear to hold open. He died at 16. I wanted to understand how a body, so intricately and specifically made, could have had such a small, undetectable condition and yet it successfully took my friend before I got to say goodbye. That helplessness in the midst of losses and understanding medical conditions would stop then and there. My heart and passion for a future career seemed to fall into place the summer before senior year. I used to think I wasn’t cut out for a medical career, that my emotional and sensitive connection to my passion for medicine would be a disadvantage. Instead, that blessing and gift of my love and true desire for being connected to medicine is exactly how I know it's what I need to do. I’m proud of my story, and the things I’ve walked through in order to get me to where I am today in fully trusting in the goodness of my future. I will no longer walk conformed to the lies and fears of my experiences tied to me, but will walk transformed in the knowing of just how much I will be used to reach others through the fruitfulness of those experiences. I know that through the continuation of my education, this calling and career path will come to light.

The striking, yet faint sound of choking awakes me as the clock reads 5:36 AM. I sit up and rub my eyes, looking across the dark and somber room to see her violently shaking and seizing. The floor shook as my feet propelled from once they were tucked in. The screams and cries for help echoed the hallway, prayerfully reaching Momma’s room. The helplessness set in of childhood innocence and naive unknowings. Sharing a room with my younger sister quickly became more of an anxious responsibility than a fun roommate to share with. I was always the one to cry out for help. I would think back to my 7 year old self, telling her teachers she was one day going to be a ‘personarian,’ the idea of being a veterinarian but for people…the word ‘doctor’ slipping her mind as she ate cheerios with Barney playing in the back. I have continued to share a room with my sister the entirety of her life- a true privilege, blessing and stress many can only empathize with. The day after her most recent seizure I laid on my bed waiting for my mom to be ready to take me to school, when my eyes went blurry and dark. I attempted to stand up and get water, in which I fell to the floor completely losing balance. My chest clenched as if an elephant had impeded on it. My rosacea cheeks and freckles managed to go completely white as I managed to find my mom for help. Her aid and comfort was enough to acknowledge the panic and anxiousness attacking my mind in preparation for another seizure happening on my watch. That helplessness of not knowing what to do in medical situations would stop then and there. The office buzzer rings into my quiet, testtaking classroom. Calling out for early dismissal, I innocently packed my things. Walking across campus to meet with Momma; her cheeks stained and traumatized with tears. Questioning her arrival and my absence, the words barely roll off her lips without a shriek. The immediate wails and confusion of my frustrated tears hitting my chest escaped the eyes I could no longer bear to hold open. He died at 16. Barely any life yet lived, yet a heart so big it used to beat for me. A stroke he never should’ve carried. I questioned God in His will for my dear friend’s life, so early being taken from the people who love him. I waved the white flag as thoughts of regret rushed into my mind of the things I never got to say, and the things I never got to take back. I wanted to understand how a body, so intricately and specifically made, could have had such a small, undetectable condition and yet it successfully took my friend before I got to say goodbye. That helplessness in the midst of losses and understanding medical conditions would stop then and there. My heart and passion for a future career seemed to fall into place the summer before senior year. As the only questions I would be hearing for the next 10 months to be answered with what college and major I would chase after. I couldn’t shake the peaceful notion that I was made for more in helping others. It didn’t take long for me to embrace the calling I had on my life that one day at 7 years old, innocent and naively walking through my days. I used to think I wasn’t cut out for a medical career, that my emotional and sensitive connection to my passion for medicine would be a disadvantage. Instead, that blessing and gift of my love and true desire for being connected to medicine is exactly how I know it's what I need to do. I’m proud of my story, and the things I’ve walked through in order to get me to where I am today in fully trusting in the goodness of my future. I will no longer walk conformed to the lies and fears of my experiences tied to me, but will walk transformed in the knowing of just how much I will be used to reach others through the fruitfulness of those experiences.