I do not believe I deserve this scholarship because I have faced more challenges than other applicants. I believe I deserve it because I have consistently transformed every opportunity and obstacle into more motivation to serve others. Throughout my undergraduate education, I balanced full-time work as a restaurant manager while earning my bachelor's degree in Medical Anthropology, graduating magna cum laude from California State University, Fullerton. Outside of work and school, I have served as an in-home caregiver for seniors with neurological conditions, where I learned that healthcare is built as much on compassion and communication as it is on science. I also volunteered at Providence Mission Hospital's Leonard Cancer Center, where I witnessed the life-changing impact of collaborative, patient-centered care in cancer patients. These experiences inspired me to pursue a Master of Science in Genetic Counseling at Loma Linda University, where I will begin my studies this fall. My goal is to become a reproductive and prenatal genetic counselor serving underserved communities, helping individuals and families understand complex genetic information and make informed decisions with confidence. What sets me apart is not simply my academic record or professional experiences, but the perspective I will bring to healthcare. I have spent years caring for people during some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives, and those experiences have taught me empathy, resilience, and the importance of making every patient feel heard and respected. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to focus more fully on my graduate education while reducing the financial burden of leaving full-time employment and moving from home to pursue my degree. More importantly, it would be an investment in a future healthcare professional committed to expanding access to compassionate, equitable genetic care. I intend to honor that investment by using my education to improve the lives of patients and strengthen the communities I will one day serve.

When asked what I want to build, my answer is not a building a company, or a product. I want to build trust with my patients in the genetic counseling field. Throughout my experiences in healthcare, I have learned that one of the greatest barriers patients face is not always a lack of medical technology, it is a lack of understanding between the provider and patient. Receiving a diagnosis and discussing genetic testing, or making decisions can be overwhelming, especially when patients feel intimidated by medical terminology or uncertain about their options. I want to help change that by building meaningful relationships between patients and the healthcare system. This fall, I will begin my Master of Science in Genetic Counseling at Loma Linda University after graduating magna cum laude with a bachelor's degree in Medical Anthropology from California State University, Fullerton. My long-term goal is to become a prenatal genetic counselor, helping individuals and families understand complex genetic information while empowering them to make informed decisions that align with their values. My desire to build trust began long before graduate school. As an in-home caregiver for seniors with neurological conditions, I saw how vulnerable people become when navigating illness and uncertainty. Many of the individuals I cared for needed more than physical assistance, hey needed someone who would listen patiently, explain information clearly, and treat them with dignity. Later, while volunteering at Providence Mission Hospital's Leonard Cancer Center, I observed their teams working together to provide personalized care aimed towards the individual. Watching genetic counselors communicate difficult information with empathy reinforced that trust is one of the most powerful tools in healthcare. I hope to build a future where patients feel comfortable asking questions, expressing concerns, and participating confidently in decisions about their health. In reproductive and prenatal genetics, those conversations often occur during some of the most emotional moments in a person's life. By creating an environment built on compassion, respect, and clear communication, I hope to reduce fear and replace it with understanding. Building trust is not something that happens in a single appointment. It is built through listening, honesty, and genuine compassion over time. That is the future I hope to build, a career where science and empathy work together to help every patient feel informed and supported.

Community means showing up for others, especially during moments when they feel most vulnerable. Throughout my life, I have learned that meaningful service is not always measured by the number of volunteer hours completed, but by the relationships we build and the compassions we offer. My experiences as an in-home caregiver for those with neurological conditions and as a volunteer at Providence Mission Hospital's Leonard Cancer Center have shaped both the person I am today and the healthcare professional I hope to become. For several years, I have worked as an in-home caregiver, assisting older adults living with neurological conditions and cognitive decline by running errands, doing household chores and taking them to their appointments. Many of my clients have faced illnesses that affected not only their physical health but also their independence and confidence. My responsibilities extended far beyond helping with daily tasks. I became someone they could rely on for conversation, encouragement, and companionship during what were often isolating periods of their lives. I learned that the smallest acts of kindness, like listening to someone's stories, celebrating small victories, or simply being present could make a tremendous difference in a person's well-being. These experiences taught me patience, empathy, and the importance of treating every individual with dignity. They also showed me how difficult it can be for families to navigate complex medical conditions while trying to support the people they love. Watching those families advocate for their relatives inspired me to pursue a career where I could help patients understand complex medical information and feel empowered to make informed decisions. I continued serving my community as a volunteer at Providence Mission Hospital's Leonard Cancer Center in their genetic counseling program, where I had the opportunity to support patients and observe the collaborative nature of healthcare. I assisted with patient interactions and witnessed multidisciplinary cancer conferences where physicians, genetic counselors, nurses, and other specialists worked together to develop personalized treatment plans. Seeing the role that communication and teamwork played in patient care reinforced my belief that healthcare extends beyond medicine alone, it is built on education and compassion. Both experiences strengthened my desire to become a genetic counselor. This fall, I will begin my Master of Science in Genetic Counseling at Loma Linda University after graduating magna cum laude with a bachelor's degree in Medical Anthropology from California State University, Fullerton. My goal is to work in neurological and prenatal genetic counseling, helping individuals and families understand complex genetic information during some of the most important moments of their lives. I have learned that strong communities are built one person at a time. Every conversation or every act of compassion, and every effort to make someone feel heard contributes to a more supportive community. I hope to carry those lessons into my career, continuing to serve others by providing not only scientific expertise but also empathy, reassurance, and advocacy when people need it most.

I have chosen to pursue genetic counseling because it combines everything that has shaped my life: science, healthcare, advocacy, and a desire to help people navigate some of their most vulnerable moments. This fall, I will begin my Master of Science in Genetic Counseling at Loma Linda University after graduating magna cum laude from California State University, Fullerton, with a BA in Anthropology. My goal is to become a genetic counselor in underserved communities, particularly in California's Inland Empire, where access to specialized healthcare can be limited when it comes to genetic testing. My passion for this field is deeply personal. For several years, I have served as an in-home caregiver for a family member with neurological and learning disabilities. Through that experience, I witnessed firsthand how difficult it can be for families to navigate complex medical systems, understand diagnoses, and access appropriate resources. I saw the emotional and practical challenges that accompany lifelong health conditions, and I learned the importance of compassionate communication. These experiences inspired me to pursue a career where I can help patients and families understand complicated medical information and make informed decisions about their healthcare. My academic and professional experiences have strengthened that commitment. As a volunteer intern at Providence Mission Hospital's Leonard Cancer Center, I observed multidisciplinary cancer conferences and gained exposure to the role genetic counselors play in patient care. Seeing healthcare professionals collaborate to improve outcomes reinforced my belief that genetics has the power to transform medicine while still requiring a deeply human approach. In the future, I hope to work in areas such as neurogenetics and ophthalmic genetics while also contributing to research that expands access to genetic services for diverse and underserved populations. This scholarship would make a meaningful difference as I transition into graduate school. To pursue my degree full-time, I am leaving my position as a restaurant manager, which has provided financial stability while I completed my undergraduate education. Graduate school will require me to relocate with my partner and our dog while managing tuition, housing, and living expenses. Like many students entering healthcare professions, I am making a significant financial sacrifice today in hopes of creating a lasting impact tomorrow. Receiving the Kayla Nicole Monk Scholarship would allow me to focus more fully on my education, clinical training, and community service rather than the financial stress that often accompanies graduate studies. More importantly, it would support my ability to continue the type of work that Kayla valued: helping others achieve their goals and improving lives through dedication and innovation.

My academic and professional goals are centered on becoming a successful genetic counselor who works within underserved communities, particularly in the Inland Empire where I will be attending graduate school. I graduated magna cum laude with my BA in Medical Anthropology from California State University, Fullerton, and will begin my graduate studies in Genetic Counseling at Loma Linda University this Fall 2026. I am especially interested in ophthalmology and neurological disorders, a passion shaped by my younger years as an in-home caregiver for a parent with neurological and learning deficits. My experiences showed me how overwhelming healthcare can be, and I hope to become a provider who makes complex information clear, accessible, and empowering for patients and their families. Pursuing this path requires a significant financial transition. I am leaving my full-time job as a restaurant manager to commit fully to graduate school. While this decision reflects my dedication, it also means giving up a stable income. I will be relocating with my partner and our dog, living off campus, and managing tuition and living expenses month to month. This scholarship would ease that burden and allow me to focus on my education and clinical training without the constant stress of financial insecurity. It would directly support my ability to succeed in a demanding program and ultimately give back through a career in healthcare. Outside of academics, heavy metal has been one of the most consistent and grounding forces in my life. I love heavy metal because although it can sound angry, it is made by and for people who do not wish to be, and need an outlet. It takes raw, overwhelming emotion and turns it into something powerful, expressive, and even healing. The metal community itself that I have been apart of is so incredibly kind and supportive, something that often surprises people who are not part of it. There is a sense of belonging at shows that is hard to find anywhere else. Some of my favorite bands include The Plot in You, Bilmuri, thrown, and Bring Me the Horizon from my teen years, whose music captures both vulnerability and intensity. One of my favorite concert experiences was seeing The Plot in You open for Bring Me the Horizon. The energy in the room was unforgettable, and I ended up sneaking onto the floor with my best friend while "Feel Nothing" played to be closer to the performance. Being surrounded by people who were fully present in the music, singing, screaming, and connecting, was an experience that stayed with me long after the show ended. Heavy metal has taught me a lot about resilience, emotional honesty, and community. It has given me an outlet during stressful and uncertain times, especially while balancing caregiving, work, and school. In many ways, those same values shape the kind of healthcare professional I am becoming. I want to meet people where they are, without judgment, and help them navigate difficult moments with support and clarity. Whether in a clinic or in a crowd at a show, I believe in the power of people and connection. My goal is to carry that same energy into my future career: creating spaces where people feel heard, supported, and understood.

What excites me most about pursuing a career in genetic counseling is the ability to combine natural science, research, and patient care in a way that can genuinely change lives. This fall, I will begin my graduate studies in Genetic Counseling at Loma Linda University, where I hope to further explore my interests in neurogenetics and genetic ophthalmology. I am drawn to these areas because they represent fields where research continues to rapidly, offering opportunities to improve diagnoses and treatments, and quality of life for patients facing complex conditions. My passion for genetics is deeply connected to both personal experience and academic curiosity. As someone who has worked for several years providing in-home care for individuals with neurological conditions, I have seen firsthand how life-altering these disorders can be, not only for patients, but also for their families and friends. These experiences motivated me to pursue a career where I could help people better understand the medical and genetic factors influencing their health while also contributing to future advancements in care and research. What I find especially fascinating about genetics is that it is constantly evolving and every year there is something new to be learned. New discoveries continue to reshape how we understand inheritable conditions of the brain and eyes, risk factors, and disease progression. I am particularly interested in how genetics can be used to identify conditions earlier, potentially improving patient outcomes through earlier intervention and personalized care. The idea that research conducted today could directly influence future treatments and preventative strategies is incredibly inspiring to me. In addition to patient care, I hope to contribute to research in genetic ophthalmology and neurogenetics throughout my career. Vision and neurological disorders can profoundly impact independence and quality of life, yet many conditions still lack clear answers or accessible treatment options. I want to be part of a generation of healthcare professionals and researchers working to close those gaps. I hope to contribute to a future where genetic medicine becomes more precise, accessible, and empowering for patients. As a woman pursuing a career in science and healthcare, I also value the importance of representation and mentorship. Throughout my academic journey, I have learned how meaningful it is to see women succeed in STEM fields, particularly in areas of medicine and research that have historically been male-dominated. I hope to not only build a successful career, but also encourage and support other young women pursuing careers in science and healthcare. Ultimately, what excites me most about my field of study is its potential to create lasting a impact. Genetics has the power to provide answers, guide medical decisions, and improve lives in deeply meaningful ways. Being able to contribute to that work is what motivates me as I prepare to begin this next chapter of my education and career.

I embody selflessness through consistent, hands-on care for others, especially in moments when support is not convenient, visible, or easy. For the past four years, I have worked through In-Home Support Services (IHSS), providing care for individuals with neurological conditions. This role has shaped not only how I help others, but how I understand what it truly means to show up for someone in need. My responsibilities have gone far beyond basic assistance. I have helped clients with daily living tasks such as mobility, medication management, and personal care, but just as importantly, I have been a source of stability and emotional support. Neurological conditions often come with unpredictability: changes in mood, cognition, or physical ability, and I have learned how to adapt in real time while maintaining patience and compassion. There have been moments when a client felt frustrated or discouraged, and simply sitting with them, listening, and offering reassurance became the most meaningful form of help I could provide. One experience that stands out involved supporting a client through a particularly difficult period as their condition progressed. Tasks that were once simple became overwhelming, and their sense of independence began to shift. I remember taking extra time during our visits, not just to complete tasks, but to slow down, explain things clearly, and make sure they still felt in control of their own decisions. It taught me that helping someone is not just about doing things for them, but about preserving their dignity and autonomy in the process. Through this work, I have come to understand that selflessness is not about grand gestures, but about consistency, empathy, and being present even when it is emotionally or physically demanding. It is about recognizing another person’s needs and responding with patience, without expecting recognition or reward. This perspective has directly influenced my decision to pursue a master’s degree in genetic counseling, where I hope to specialize in neurogenetics. My experiences with individuals who have neurological conditions have shown me how complex and deeply personal these diagnoses can be, not only for patients but for their families as well. As a future genetic counselor, I want to provide the same level of care, helping patients understand their conditions, navigate uncertainty, and feel supported in their decisions. Ultimately, selflessness, to me, is about commitment to others’ well-being over time. It is found in the quiet moments of care, the willingness to adapt, and the ability to meet people where they are. My work in in-home support services has shaped this understanding, and it is a mindset I will carry forward into my career in healthcare, where I hope to continue serving others with compassion, respect, and dedication.

I have chosen to pursue a career in STEM through genetic counseling because it allows me to combine scientific knowledge with direct, meaningful impact on people’s lives. I will begin my graduate studies in Genetic Counseling at Loma Linda University in Fall 2026, and my passion for this field has been shaped by both my academic background and my clinical experiences. What draws me most to genetics is its ability to provide individuals with knowledge that can guide life-altering decisions, particularly in the context of women’s health. As an intern, I have seen firsthand how empowering it can be for women to understand their genetic predisposition to conditions such as hereditary breast and ovarian cancer. Watching patients learn about their risk and then take actionable steps based on established guidelines like those from the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN), has been one of the most impactful experiences in my training. These guidelines do not just exist on paper; they translate into earlier screenings, preventative care, and, in many cases, lives saved. Seeing that transformation has solidified my commitment to this field. I chose STEM because I believe science should not exist in isolation; it should be accessible, understandable, and used to empower individuals. In genetic counseling, the science is only one part of the equation. The ability to communicate complex information in a compassionate and clear way is equally important. This is especially true for women navigating decisions about their health, their bodies, and their families. I am passionate about helping women feel informed and supported rather than overwhelmed or fearful. As a woman in STEM, I hope to contribute to a more inclusive and patient-centered healthcare environment. Women’s health concerns have historically been under-researched or dismissed, and conditions like hereditary cancer risk or reproductive health decisions are deeply personal and often complex. I want to be part of a generation of healthcare professionals who not only advance scientific understanding but also advocate for better representation, research, and care for women. In my future career, I aim to continue working with patients at risk for hereditary cancers, helping them understand their options and navigate preventative care. I am also interested in serving underserved communities, where access to genetic services and preventative care may be limited. By combining clinical care with education and advocacy, I hope to reduce disparities and ensure that more women have access to the life-saving information that genetics can provide. Ultimately, pursuing STEM is about more than a career for me, it is also about impact. Through genetic counseling, I hope to empower women with knowledge, support them in making informed decisions, and contribute to a healthcare system that values both scientific advancement and compassionate care.

One experience that stands out in shaping my sense of community and leadership was organizing a “Pints and Pups” Pet Adoption event at my local taproom. What began as a simple idea, bringing people together over a shared love of dogs and helping dogs find homes, quickly grew into a meaningful collaboration between local businesses and animal rescues. I coordinated the event by partnering with three different rescue organizations, each bringing adoptable dogs, volunteers, and their own networks of support. Planning the event required balancing logistics, communication, and adaptability. I worked closely with the rescues to ensure their needs were met, from space accommodations to scheduling, while also coordinating with the taproom to create an environment that was welcoming, safe, and engaging for guests, as I also manage at this particular taproom. I promoted the event through social media, designed outreach materials, and focused on making the event accessible and inviting to the broader community. Beyond the logistics, what made the experience especially impactful was navigating challenges in collaboration. Each rescue had its own perspectives, priorities, and concerns, and part of my role was ensuring that all groups felt respected and heard. This required patience, clear communication, and a willingness to find common ground, even when tensions arose. It pushed me to grow as a leader, not just in organizing an event, but in facilitating cooperation and maintaining a shared mission. On the day of the event, the space came alive with people, dogs, and a strong sense of connection. Community members gathered not only to enjoy the atmosphere but to learn about adoption, meet the dogs, and support local organizations. Seeing multiple dogs connect with potential adopters and watching people engage with the rescues made the months of planning worthwhile. It was a reminder of how small, local efforts can create meaningful impact. This experience reinforced my commitment to community-driven work. Whether in event planning or in my future career in healthcare, I value creating spaces where people feel connected, supported, and empowered. Organizing “Pints and Pups” showed me that leadership is not just about coordination; it is about bringing people together, navigating differences, and working toward a shared goal that benefits others. As I continue my academic and professional journey, I carry these lessons with me. I hope to apply the same level of care, communication, and collaboration in my future work as a genetic counselor, where building trust and fostering connection are just as important as technical expertise. This experience reminded me that meaningful change often starts at the community level, with people willing to take initiative and bring others together for a common purpose.

Pursuing higher education has always felt both empowering and uncertain for me. As a second-generation student with grandparents from Mexico, and the first in my family to pursue a master’s degree, I have often navigated this path without a clear roadmap. While my family has always been supportive, there is no shared experience to guide me through graduate school, financial planning, or long-term career decisions in higher education. This reality has shaped both my hopes and my fears as I take the next step in my academic journey. I graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology from California State University, Fullerton, and will begin my graduate studies in Genetic Counseling at Loma Linda University in Fall 2026. My decision to pursue this field is rooted in a desire to combine science with advocacy, particularly in underserved communities. However, getting to this point has required persistence and self-direction. Without generational experience in higher education, I have had to independently seek out resources, mentorship, and opportunities, often learning through trial and error. One of my greatest hopes is that earning a master’s degree will not only change the trajectory of my own life but also create a new foundation for my family. I want to show that advanced education is attainable and that it can open doors to meaningful, impactful careers. I hope to use my degree to serve communities that are often overlooked in healthcare, particularly in the Inland Empire, by improving access to genetic counseling and patient education. In doing so, I aim to extend the impact of my education beyond myself and into the lives of others. At the same time, I carry real concerns about the financial and emotional challenges of graduate school. I will be leaving my full-time job to pursue my degree, which means stepping away from financial stability and taking on significant educational expenses. Without a family background in graduate education, the weight of these decisions can feel isolating. There is pressure not only to succeed, but to justify the sacrifices required to get there. The fear of financial strain and uncertainty about the future are constant considerations. Despite these fears, my background has strengthened my resilience and determination. Being the first in my family to pursue a master’s degree has taught me how to advocate for myself, seek out support systems, and remain focused on long-term goals even when the path forward feels unclear. It has also shaped my commitment to helping others navigate similar challenges, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds. Ultimately, pursuing higher education represents both a personal milestone and a broader opportunity to break cycles and create new possibilities. I am motivated by the belief that my success can have a ripple effect; within my family, my community, and the patients I hope to serve. While the path is not without challenges, it is one I am committed to walking with purpose and perseverance.

I am an incoming graduate student in Genetic Counseling at Loma Linda University, beginning in Fall 2026. I graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology from California State University, Fullerton, and my academic path has been shaped by a deep interest in both science and human connection. I am particularly passionate about prenatal healthcare and neurological conditions, with the goal of serving underserved communities in the Inland Empire. I chose genetic counseling because it sits at the intersection of medicine, communication, and advocacy: allowing me to help patients understand complex information while feeling supported in deeply personal decisions. My background in medical anthropology has strongly influenced how I approach both healthcare and identity. Anthropology taught me to value cultural diversity, question assumptions, and understand that a wide range of social and personal factors shape people’s experiences. This perspective has been especially meaningful in my experience as an openly bisexual individual. Being part of the LGBTQ+ community has given me a personal understanding of what it means to navigate identity, acceptance, and belonging. It has also shown me the importance of creating spaces where people feel safe, respected, and seen for who they are. While my experience has not always been defined by adversity, it has shaped my awareness of how important inclusive and affirming environments are—particularly in healthcare. LGBTQ+ individuals often face barriers to care, including stigma, a lack of provider understanding, and fear of judgment. These realities have strengthened my commitment to becoming a healthcare professional who actively fosters trust and inclusivity. I want my future patients to feel comfortable sharing all aspects of their identity without hesitation, knowing they will be met with respect and understanding. I do see myself as someone who both has given and will continue to give back to the LGBTQ+ community. Whether through everyday interactions, advocacy in healthcare spaces, or simply being visible and supportive, I believe that representation and compassion matter. In my future career, I hope to contribute to more inclusive genetic counseling practices, ensuring that LGBTQ+ individuals and families receive equitable, affirming care, particularly in areas like reproductive and prenatal counseling, where inclusivity is essential. Financially, pursuing graduate school is a significant challenge. I am leaving my full-time job as a restaurant manager to fully commit to my studies, which means giving up a stable source of income. I will be relocating with my partner and our dog and managing the costs of tuition, housing, and daily living expenses. Without substantial savings, this transition brings a great deal of financial uncertainty. Scholarships like this one are incredibly important to me because they would help reduce that burden and allow me to focus on my education and clinical training. Ultimately, my goal is to build a career that reflects both my academic passions and my personal values, one rooted in empathy, inclusivity, and service. This scholarship would not only support me financially but also affirm my commitment to contributing to both the healthcare field and the LGBTQ+ community.

My interest in uterine fibroids is grounded in both personal observation and a strong academic commitment to advancing women’s health through genetics. While I have not personally experienced fibroids, I have known individuals who have struggled with their effects, including chronic pain, heavy menstrual bleeding, and complications related to fertility. These experiences highlighted for me how disruptive and, at times, debilitating fibroids can be, as well as how limited our understanding still is regarding their underlying causes and optimal treatments. This knowledge gap motivates my desire to contribute to research that improves both clinical outcomes and quality of life for affected individuals. As I prepare to begin my graduate studies in Genetic Counseling at Loma Linda University, I am particularly interested in the role that genetics may play in the development and progression of uterine fibroids. Current research suggests that fibroids are influenced by a combination of hormonal, environmental, and genetic factors, yet the precise mechanisms remain unclear. The variability in presentation, ranging from asymptomatic cases to severe symptoms such as anemia, infertility, and excessive bleeding, indicates that there may be distinct genetic profiles or mutations that influence disease expression. I am especially interested in contributing to research that identifies genetic markers associated with fibroid risk, growth patterns, and treatment response. In my future career, I hope to work at the intersection of clinical care and research. As a genetic counselor, I would aim to translate emerging genetic findings into meaningful information for patients, helping them understand their individual risk factors and available treatment options. I am also interested in participating in research initiatives that utilize genomic sequencing and population-based studies to better characterize fibroid subtypes. These efforts could ultimately lead to more personalized and less invasive treatment strategies, reducing reliance on procedures such as hysterectomy, which remains a common intervention. My academic background in anthropology further informs my approach to this work. I recognize that uterine fibroids disproportionately affect certain populations, particularly Black women, who often experience earlier onset, more severe symptoms, and greater barriers to care. This underscores the importance of conducting inclusive research that reflects diverse populations and addresses health disparities. I am committed to contributing to research that not only advances scientific understanding but also promotes equity in diagnosis, treatment, and patient education. Ultimately, my goal is to help bridge the gap between genetic research and patient-centered care. By contributing to a deeper understanding of uterine fibroids through research and applying that knowledge in clinical settings, I hope to support earlier detection, more effective treatments, and improved outcomes for those affected by this condition.

My journey into healthcare has been shaped by both personal experience and a deep commitment to serving others. I graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology from California State University, Fullerton, and will begin my graduate studies in Genetic Counseling at Loma Linda University in Fall 2026. I am particularly passionate about prenatal healthcare and neurological conditions, with a focus on improving access to care for underserved communities. My interest in healthcare, especially neurogenetics, is rooted in my role as an in-home caregiver for a parent with neurological deficits. Over the years, I have supported them through appointments, daily care, and complex medical decisions. This experience has given me a firsthand understanding of the emotional and practical challenges that patients and families face when navigating the healthcare system. I have seen how overwhelming medical information can be, and how critical it is for providers to communicate with empathy, clarity, and patience. In addition to caregiving, I have spent several years working and volunteering within my community and have planned two animal adoption events working with local rescues, experiences that have reinforced my commitment to service. Professionally, I worked as a restaurant manager for four years, where I developed strong leadership and interpersonal skills while working with people from diverse backgrounds. These roles taught me the importance of adaptability, communication, and meeting individuals where they are, skills that directly translate to patient care. As I pursue a career in genetic counseling, I am especially driven to serve the Inland Empire, a region that is often medically underserved. I am passionate about increasing access to prenatal and neurological healthcare and ensuring that individuals from all backgrounds have the resources and support they need to make informed decisions about their health. I believe that healthcare is not just about delivering information, but about empowering patients and families to understand and navigate their options with confidence. Christina Taylese Singh’s dedication to occupational therapy reflects a shared commitment to helping individuals live fuller, more supported lives. Like Christina, I am motivated by the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on patients during vulnerable moments. Through my work, I hope to carry forward that same spirit of compassion and service by providing patient-centered care that prioritizes both knowledge and human connection. Ultimately, my goal is to become a genetic counselor who not only understands the science behind medicine, but also recognizes the importance of empathy, advocacy, and accessibility. I am committed to using my education and experiences to support others and to contribute to a more equitable and compassionate healthcare system.

Before pursuing genetic counseling, I believed that good healthcare was primarily about having the right answers; clear diagnoses, accurate information, and well-structured care plans. That assumption was challenged through my experience as an in-home caregiver for a parent with neurological deficits. During one appointment, I remember sitting beside my parent as a specialist explained changes in their condition using complex medical terminology. The conversation moved quickly, and while the provider was knowledgeable, there was little pause to ensure understanding. When the appointment ended, my parent turned to me and asked, “What does this actually mean for me?” In that moment, I realized that despite receiving expert care, we were leaving without clarity, direction, or a sense of control nor did we feel seen as people outside of being patients. Experiences like this became common. I witnessed how unpredictable and fragmented healthcare can be, appointments that felt rushed, gaps in communication between providers, and the emotional toll of navigating a system that often assumes a level of understanding patients may not have. As a caregiver, I stepped into the role of translator and advocate, helping interpret medical information and guide decisions without always feeling fully equipped to do so. This challenged not only my assumptions about medicine, but also my understanding of what it means to provide effective patient care. I came to see that accuracy alone is not enough. Patients and families need time, clarity, and compassion to process complex information, especially when facing uncertain or life-altering conditions. Without that, even the best medical guidance can feel inaccessible. These experiences have deeply shaped the kind of healthcare professional I am becoming. As I prepare to enter the field of genetic counseling with acceptance into Loma Linda University, I am committed to prioritizing communication with my patients as much as clinical knowledge. Counseling and viewing the patient as a whole is deemed just as important in my philosophy. I want to ensure that patients not only receive accurate information, but truly understand it in a way that empowers them to make informed decisions. I aim to create an environment where questions are encouraged, emotions are acknowledged, and individuals feel supported rather than overwhelmed. Medicine will always be demanding and unpredictable, but my experience has taught me that small moments, pausing to explain complicated genetic conditions, checking for understanding, and acknowledging uncertainty, can transform a patient’s experience. I hope to carry these lessons forward, bridging the gap between complex medical information and meaningful, patient-centered care.

My educational journey has been shaped by persistence, adaptability, and a deep desire to understand people in all their complexity. Attending Saddleback Community College has played a central role in that journey, providing both the foundation for my academic success and the flexibility I needed to balance school, work, and family responsibilities. After initially enrolling at Saddleback, I found a learning environment that valued accessibility, personal growth, and community support. As a first-generation student balancing full-time employment and being a licensed caretaker for my mother with mental disabilities, the community college experience allowed me to pursue higher education at my own pace while managing the realities of daily life. My instructors encouraged curiosity and resilience, helping me discover my passion for understanding human behavior and health through courses in anthropology, psychology, and biology. These experiences laid the groundwork for my transfer to California State University, Fullerton, where I graduated magna cum laude with a degree in Anthropology. Yet, even after completing my bachelor’s degree, I found myself returning to Saddleback-this time with a clearer vision and renewed purpose. I am currently taking prerequisite courses in human genetics, statistics, and cellular biology to prepare for graduate study in genetic counseling. Saddleback’s rigorous academics and supportive environment have allowed me to strengthen my scientific background while continuing to grow both personally and professionally. My goal is to earn a master’s degree in genetic counseling and work in a clinical or hospital setting, where I can help individuals and families navigate the emotional and medical complexities of genetic information. My background in anthropology gives me a unique humanistic lens that I hope to bring to the field, one that values cultural awareness, empathy, and patient-centered communication. Community college has not only provided me with academic preparation but also affirmed my belief that education should be inclusive and adaptable to every stage of life. It has given me the confidence to pursue advanced study later in life and to model perseverance for others who may be returning to school under challenging circumstances. Saddleback has been more than a stepping stone; it has been a foundation that has allowed me to redefine what is possible for myself and my future in healthcare.

My decision to pursue a career in genetic counseling stems from a lifelong fascination with human stories-how our biology, culture, and experiences intertwine to shape who we are. Through my studies in anthropology at California State University, Fullerton, where I graduated magna cum laude, I learned to see healthcare not just as a science, but as a profoundly human endeavor. This perspective has guided me toward a field that blends compassion, communication, and scientific understanding in the service of others. Genetic counseling appeals to me because it represents the future of personalized medicine and patient-centered care. It is a field where empathy meets precision, where complex genetic information is translated into meaningful guidance for individuals and families. During my yearlong internship at the Leonard Cancer Center at Providence Hospital in Mission Viejo, I witnessed the life-changing impact of genetic counseling. I observed how knowledge of hereditary risk could empower patients to make proactive choices about their health and how sensitive, informed communication could bring comfort in moments of uncertainty. These experiences reaffirmed my desire to enter a profession that values both science and compassion equally. My path to this career has not been a traditional one. I am pursuing my master’s degree later in life while managing the responsibilities of full-time work and family care. For several years, I have worked as a restaurant manager, developing leadership, organization, and interpersonal skills that now serve me in academic and clinical settings. I am also a licensed in-home caretaker for my mother, a role that has deepened my understanding of patient care on a personal level. Supporting her through medical challenges has taught me patience, advocacy, and the importance of clear communication between providers and families, skills that directly align with the work of a genetic counselor. As a woman entering the healthcare field, I am inspired by the many women who have paved the way before me, often while facing significant barriers to education and leadership. Their perseverance motivates me to contribute to a healthcare system that is more inclusive and equitable. I believe women bring invaluable strengths to healthcare-empathy, collaboration, and the ability to view challenges through multiple lenses. These qualities are essential to genetic counseling, where listening, understanding, and advocacy are at the heart of every patient interaction. My goal as a genetic counselor is to improve access to genetic services for all communities, especially those historically underrepresented or underserved. My anthropology background gives me a unique foundation for this mission, helping me approach each patient with cultural humility and awareness. I hope to contribute to a future in which everyone, regardless of background, has access to accurate information, compassionate guidance, and the tools to make empowered healthcare decisions. Receiving this scholarship would not only ease the financial burden of graduate education but also support my commitment to advancing women’s roles in healthcare. I am determined to represent the values of empathy, resilience, and inclusion that define both this scholarship and the genetic counseling profession. My journey has taught me that healthcare is not only about treating illness. It is about listening, understanding, and helping others find clarity in moments of uncertainty. As I move forward in this field, I hope to bring both scientific knowledge and a human touch to every patient I serve.

I am passionate about going above and beyond for people and helping them to succeed in life. For this reason, I have decided to pursue a career in Genetic Counseling, which combines my love for science and helping people to understand their diagnoses when it comes to genetic diseases and cancer pre-dispositions. I am pursuing a career where I will be specializing in medical genetics in community organizations and clinics, provide familial education, and provide psycho-social support for patients who need to cope with certain diagnoses. In order to develop my skills as a Genetic Counselor, I am currently pursuing my Bachelor's Degree in Biology and Anthropology, so I can have an equal understanding of human cultural diversity as well as their physiology and anatomy when it comes to their medical diagnoses. While I have just received my Bachelor's in Anthropology (Magna cum Laude) from California State University, Fullerton, I am also taking Biology courses at Saddleback College. I have also earned a volunteer internship at Providence Hospital in Mission Viejo, CA, in their cancer center for the next year. During my internship I will work under two genetic counselors, where I am shadowing appointments, and helping to run their walk-in clinic for genetic testing services for those who have recently been diagnosed with rare forms of cancer. I recently shadowed an appointment where a man's father had passed from a rare form of cancer that is usually genetic, but was referred to our clinic for testing to see if he carried the gene, and if so, what precautions he needed to take for the rest of his life. One of the best parts of my week was being able to call this man with his results, and that he did not inherit the mutation from his father, so his children were safe as well. This is one of the reasons I would like to pursue a career in medical genetics; to inform, educate, help my patients to understand their genetic results. I have chosen career in stem because I am passionate about science and have so much curiosity about the world of genetics. And as women become increasingly in the forefront of scientific knowledge, the imbalance of women in STEM continues to persist due to stereotypes and unconscious biases. As a future female cancer Genetic Counselor, I am to create a supportive environment and providing mentorship opportunities can help to address this issue. I also want to provide early hands-on exposure for young women hoping to pursue a career in genetics, and hope to be part of a foundation someday as a mentor (or create my own!)

I am passionate about going above and beyond for people and helping them to succeed in life. For this reason, I have decided to pursue a career in Genetic Counseling, which combines my love for science and helping people to understand their diagnoses when it comes to genetic diseases and cancer pre-dispositions. In order to develop my skills as a Genetic Counselor, I am currently pursuing my Bachelor's Degree in Biology and Anthropology, so I can have an equal understanding of human cultural diversity as well as their physiology and anatomy when it comes to their medical diagnoses. While I have just received my Bachelor's in Anthropology (Magna cum Laude) from California State University, Fullerton, I am also taking Biology courses at Saddleback College. At the moment, I have three jobs while pursuing my degree. I have recently earned a volunteer internship at Providence Hospital in Mission Viejo, CA, in their cancer center for the next year. During my internship I will working under two genetic counselors, where I am shadowing appointments, and helping to run their walk-in clinic for genetic testing services for those who have recently been diagnosed with rare forms of cancer. While unpaid, I am still working, but through this experience I have been able to build my compassion and empathy for those with disabilities, or may need extra comfort, care, and social support, while being able to shadow genetic counselors that have the career I aspire for. I am also a licensed in-home caretaker for seniors in Orange County, CA. As a caretaker I allow people to live safely in their own homes instead of needing out-of-home care through services of meal preparation, laundry, grocery shopping, and accompaniment to medical appointments. I work this job part-time during the week when I am not in class. On the weekends, I also work as a server at a local taproom. Being a server has taught me many useful skills including communication, customer service, patience, and having a good attitude. While my jobs all have their purpose, it does impact the time allowed for my studies. I have been enrolled in college longer than I would like, because I have to divert certain days towards my work schedule when I could have enrolled in more pre-requisite classes. Working during the week has also impacted the time that could have been dedicated towards homework and studying. However, through time management, I still received my Bachelor's Degree in Anthropology with honors from California State University, Fullerton, and intend to stay on the same path for Biology, and in graduate school.

I am passionate about going above and beyond for people and helping them to succeed in life, especially when it comes to their health. For this reason, I have decided to pursue a career in Genetic Counseling, which combines my love for science and helping people to understand their diagnoses when it comes to genetic diseases and cancer pre-dispositions. I am pursuing a career where I will be specializing in medical genetics in community organizations and clinics, provide familial education, and provide psycho-social support for patients who need to cope with certain diagnoses. In order to develop my skills as a Genetic Counselor, I am currently pursuing my Bachelor's Degree in Biology and Anthropology, so I can have an equal understanding of human cultural diversity as well as their physiology and anatomy when it comes to their medical diagnoses. While I have just received my Bachelor's in Anthropology (Magna cum Laude) from California State University, Fullerton, I am also taking Biology courses at Saddleback College. I have also earned a volunteer internship at Providence Hospital in Mission Viejo, CA, in their cancer center for the next year. During my internship I will working under two genetic counselors, where I am shadowing appointments, and helping to run their walk-in clinic for genetic testing services for those who have recently been diagnosed with rare forms of cancer. I recently shadowed an appointment where a man's father had passed from a rare form of cancer that typically stems from a genetic mutation, and was referred to our clinic for testing to see if he carried the gene as well. If so, he would need to take certain precautions and get checked monthly for the rest of his life. One of the ultimate highlights of my week was being able to call and tell him he did not inherit the mutation from his father, so his children were safe as well. My goal is to be accepted into a Master's Program for Genetic Counseling within the next two years, so I can pursue my dream as a Cancer Genetic Counselor. At the age of twenty-seven I am ready to fully pursue my goals, even though I have much more schooling to undertake. I can always build my skills more on being an active listener, being an engaged an soft-spoken counselor, an educational mentor, which is something that I will always be actively working on. Thank you for allowing me to opportunity to apply and being able to write about my future plans.

@cameraman897

My name is Cameron Peterson, and I aspire to make a positive impact on the world by being the most patient, knowledgeable, and caring Genetic Counselor that I can be. The science of genetics is growing, and as more people begin to get tested and learn about themselves, it can be scary and intimidating information to process. I am specifically motivated by achievement and recognition. My goals in life are to achieve everything that seems intimidating or out of my reach, proving that anything is possible with hard work and dedication. I am especially passionate about my future career in Genetics, and if I could do anything in my life, I would be a significant presence in the Genetics Field. Part of my job will be to counsel my patients and help them to fully understand their predispositions to certain diseases or conditions they may have. I would like to specialize in pediatric counseling, and this is why I will also be minoring in child development so that I can have a greater understanding of the children that I counsel and how they may process emotional events differently than adults. I also have spent the last two years of my life working as a licensed caretaker in Southern California, which is what originally sparked my desire to help others. It started with my mother who became disabled after a traumatic brain injury. I was fortunate enough to work with a variety of people, mostly the elderly and disabled, others with genetic conditions which greatly piqued my interest of how one genetic mutation can truly change everything in a person's life. These people require patience, empathy and understanding that I want to be capable of providing. I hope that I will be able to help enough people in my career that I will have made a substantial difference in their lives and that of their children. I hope to gain as much knowledge as humanly possible throughout my career and be a beacon of support for my patients. I would also like to help make genetic testing more accessible for everyone. If we all had access to genetic testing early in our lives and had this information during our regularly scheduled doctor visits, we would be able to make medications much more personalized to the individual as well as combat certain diseases before they start. As of right now, medications are prescribed to everyone as a one-size-fits-all scenario, and bad reactions are only seen through trial-and-error. Access to testing would ensure a personalized fit of medication as well as the prevention of certain diseases, which is incredibly important in the healthcare system.

1. My name is Cameron, and if I could do anything with my life, I would want to be a significant presence in the field of genetics. I have been in college for five years, exploring every science major in depth that I could, until I could find the right fit for me and my family. When I took a Biological Anthropology course I instantly found that spark in human genetics and therefore became the career that I wanted to pursue. I am currently completing my undergraduate studies at CSU Fullerton in Physical Anthropology, and subsequently, I will be applying to UC Irvine's Master's Program in Genetic Counseling. I am a highly ambitious student that refuses to fall short in any of my classes and is also very driven outside of the classroom. As a hobby, I have become fluent in German, and I also have a passion for animal rescue, working with multiple fundraisers and events to match pets with their deserving homes. For the last two years, I have also been working as a licensed caretaker in the state of California, at first for my mother who was diagnosed with dementia, but also for seniors in my community. It was through these experiences that my interests in people and healthcare were heightened and I felt like I had found my calling, and I wanted to work in science but also directly interact with people. My hopes, academically, are to gain as much knowledge as possible in genetics throughout my career and to be a beacon of support for my patients. Not only would I want to thrive in my career, but I would also like to be a nurturing and empathetic counselor for my patients who suffer from genetic disorders. 2. Since I was a child, I have always wanted to pursue a career in science. Science was my favorite class to attend, no matter the concentration of study because I have always been fascinated by how the world works, and how and why people function the way they do. Genetics is a vast field that is widely unexplored, and there will be so many discoveries likely made in the near future. Genes affect our behaviors, our instincts, and even our hopes and our fears. The world of genetics is growing, and as more people begin to get tested and learn about themselves, it can be scary and intimidating information to process. In my career, I want to become a genetic counselor for children that have been diagnosed with genetic disorders. My job would act as a middleman between the family and the laboratory, to help them understand the results and the implications of their diagnosis. I would counsel them on the best healthcare choices for themselves, as well as determine risks for disorders in other family members. This is why I will also be minoring in child development so that I can have a greater understanding of the children that I counsel and how they may process emotional events differently than adults. I would also like to assist in making genetic testing more accessible to the public. If we all had access to genetic testing early in our lives, we could take early precautions against any disease we may be predisposed to. 3. I was raised in a low-income household, surrounded by addiction, trauma, and abuse. By the time I was fifteen, my family had already lost custody of me twice. I knew that after the last time, I would not be allowed back, as my mother had gone to jail. This was right before my first day of high school, and my transition away from my family was very difficult at first. I hadn’t told any of my friends, but my grades were slipping, and I suffered from outbursts of anger and anxiety. Toward the end of my freshman year of high school, I came close to dropping out like a few of my other friends had done. However, something shifted in me when I saw how those friends were truly doing. I was able to shift my mindset from being a victim of things I couldn’t control, to a survivor and creator of my destiny. I did not allow my story to hinder me academically and became a perfect student in every way. I finished high school as a salutatorian with a scholarship that supported me through my entire first year of college. Five years later I am grateful to have the opportunity to pursue a Master's Program that, albeit expensive, could change my life. As an adult, I learned forgiveness and acceptance, as my mother who lost custody of me became in poor health. I became her licensed caretaker, and others and the skills I have learned through caretaking will make me an incredible counselor someday. One takeaway I learned is that I have had to learn gratitude for the good things in my life, I learned that mental health support from professionals goes a long way, and to keep gratitude for what I have been given.

My mother has been mentally ill since before I was born. As a child of divorced parents I used to think that maybe it was my fault, or I could do something to change it, hoping that I could make her better by being the best child or doing the best in school. Being an only child I was naive, uninformed, and uneducated about what we were going through, because we had no outside help. She had lost custody of me two times and was in and out of rehabilitation centers and psychiatric care. And at age fifteen, I had started taking her to these facilities myself. I ended up resenting her for a long time because I personally felt traumatized by all that I saw and experienced throughout my childhood. It took me a long time to understand that the system had failed her and had not been catering to her individual needs. She had never been treated well in these facilities, was talked down upon, ignored and mistreated. Twice she had been kicked out due to insurance not covering the care, and she gave up on trying to get into these centers after so many rejections. It was not easy, but through personal growth and my own experiences in high school and college, I understood what it was like to struggle with my mental health. Although we expect our parents to be perfect examples of what life should be like and lay out the map for us, they are people too, who are also susceptible to mental health issues, addiction, paranoia, etc. My own struggles with anxiety, depression and an eating disorder helped me to understand that struggling with our mental health is not by choice. Her mental health, as well as my own, are something that we are both working towards bettering. We are both currently in therapy and are hoping to obtain housing for those with mental health issues. It is not widely talked about how those who struggle with their mental health are meant to support themselves and maintaining a job, as well as a home. I am a full-time student studying Anthropology because I wish to truly understand how people and their health are influenced by their cultures. I am specializing in Medical Health and Anthropology to learn how we have created our healthcare system and how it fails to help individual needs. After obtaining my Bachelor's, I intend on obtaining my Master's in Genetic Counseling as well. In my professional career I would be explaining genetic results to families and how it could affect them based on their history. I will also be guiding parents of children with genetic diseases, to help their children flourish and not feel ashamed of their diagnosis. With my experience in mental health growing up, I think that it would make me a passionate and empathetic counselor that could help in their emotional needs. I would like to take that pain and anguish that I experienced as a child and turn it into a superpower that could help others and help them to feel emotionally heard and seen.

I am currently an Evolutionary Anthropology major and intend on pursuing a Master's degree in Genetic Counseling. Anthropology is the comprehensive study of human development, culture, and change throughout the world, past and present. Anthropology can also help us imagine and design futures that attend to human and environmental complexity. I am curious about diverse cultures across the world and how it relates to health of all populations. Exploring Anthropology will better help me in Genetic Counseling because I will better understand those factors which influence health and well being the experience and distribution of illness, the prevention and treatment of sickness, healing processes. Genetics is a science that is very important to society. The world of genetics is growing, and as more people begin to get tested and learn about themselves, it can be scary and intimidating information to process. Part of my job will be to counsel my patients and help them to fully understand their predispositions to certain diseases or conditions they may have. I also will help parents understand the genetic issues their child may have. This is why I will also be minoring in child development, so that I can have a greater understanding of the children that I counsel and how they may process emotional events differently than adults. I believe that women are such an important addition to the STEM field, and I am grateful to be a part of that growing community. Our world is constantly evolving and we are making new discoveries in science every day. This is why the field of Genetics is so incredibly exciting, especially in my chosen field which currently has a job growth rate of 26%. As a Genetic Counselor, not only would I have the ability to assess genetic risk factors in individuals, I would be able to consult with the ever-expanding companies that are growing exponentially in the Genetics World. My hopes are that I will be able to help enough people in my career that I will have made a substantial difference in their lives and that of their children. I hope to gain as much knowledge as humanly possible throughout my career and be a beacon of support for my patients. When working in a STEM field, not only do you get to work in exciting fields like computer science and engineering, but the work itself is often highly satisfying with impactful results.

To give answer for this question is really simple. I believe that a human being cannot have a specific goal and dreams , our goals and dreams change with time and requirement. So to be specific we can simply say my goal of life is to be happy in all of my situations and my dream is to travel the world.

My favorite Disney character will always be Tiana from The Princess and the Frog. She is the first Disney Princess who holds not just one job, but two! She strongly believes in the ethics of hard work and consistently stands by the idea that anything will be achieved (as she sings in “When We're Human”) “if you do your best each and every day.” Tiana's determination is unparalleled. The story begins when she meets Prince Naveen, who has been turned into a frog by the voodoo witch doctor. Naveen made a deal with the voodoo doctor in which he expected to receive money, but ended up as an amphibian instead! When Naveen meets Tiana at a Masquerade party, he thinks she's a princess because of her fancy costume, so he asks her for a kiss to break the curse. But since she's not a princess, the kiss turns Tiana into a frog too! The adventures help us to discover their personalities, Naveen being lazy and financially irresponsible, while Tiara reveals her tenacity and work ethic and independence. He learns responsibility from Tiana while she learns about enjoying life and having balance. This helps Naveen too because the work gives his life a feeling of direction. Tiana is also the first African-American Disney Princess, and since her story takes place in New Orleans in the 1920s, she has more of a connection to the real world than other princesses. A non-traditional princess, Tiana is a great character because she demonstrates a strong devotion to her dream of opening a restaurant and shows courageous, independent qualities. Her goals go far beyond finding love with a Prince. Even after marrying Naveen, the two of them work together to realize her dream rather than living in idle luxury. She encourages others to work hard for their dream lives, that with her representation of African American princesses is a great role model for future movies to come.

My tip is to create healthy boundaries and learn to say no sometimes. As a people pleaser, I always did favors for work, friends and family, putting too much on my plate and increasing my stress load. I limited the amount of time I could spend on self-care. Being selective about what you take on — and saying “no” to things that will unnecessarily add to your load — can reduce your stress levels. instagram: @cameraman897

Understanding the way our world works has always been the epicenter of my educational goals. Ever since I was a child, I have been fascinated with astronomy, environmentalism, biology, and genetics, even taking on extra credit and courses in these fields just so I could keep learning more about our universe. I was previously an astronomy major because I needed to know everything about the beginning of our small world, and what happens in those lightyears beyond us. There are unknown and undiscovered phenomenon that we still cannot comprehend, and there is always more to learn. Even though my major has shifted to Biological Anthropology major, specializing in the evolution of the human race through genetics is still a greatly undiscovered world within the body. Once I obtain my bachelor's degree, my educational goal is to obtain my Masters and become a certified Genetic Counselor. When my mother started to get sick in my pre-teen years, I always wondered if I would acquire those same mental and physical illnesses that she had. I started to think about what really get's passed down between parent and child, and how it affects families for generations. Around the same time, we started to learn about genetics in school, Punnett squares, and about Mr. Charles Darwin himself. It spurned this obsession of heredity within me, and the complexity of DNA and how it affects people, and how it is very easy to misunderstand. My goal is to help people understand their genetic disorders and assess the risks to their families. The medical field is constantly adapting to the genetic histories of their patients, but most people do not have the full grasp of what having a genetic condition means for them. Cancer, heart conditions, birth defects from mutations in the DNA can actually be prescreened through genetic testing. Some people never have children because they believe that they will pass on certain cancers to their child, only to find out that they never had that gene they expected to have. Although I once studied the grandeur of the universe, I would argue that the building blocks inside of our bodies is just as large and yet to be fully discovered. With my degree in Genetic Counseling I hope to be apart of a positive future in healthcare. I want to assist people in planning for their pregnancies, care for their children, and manage their overall health. Since I plan on specializing in Pediatrics, my goals are for the children to feel safe and like they have gained knowledge with me at their side. It is not just about where we came from, but life is about using our knowledge to create a better future for our families.

Community involvement is meaningful because it improves my social well-being and the well-being of others. My part-time job through college has been as a licensed in-home caretaker for seniors and the disabled in my community. It started with care-taking for my mother who suffered from a seizure, but has blossomed into a labor of love through the people I have provided assistance to. My patients have told me stories, kept me grounded, gave me life changing advice, and added great value to my life. Care-taking for a variety of people has actually inspired me to become an Anthropology major and pursue my future career in Genetic Counseling. As a Genetic Counselor with an Anthropology background, I want to use my knowledge of humanity and genetics to educate families about their genetic backgrounds, connect with them on a deeper and more personal level, and guide them through their predispositions to future illnesses. I would like to especially work with children who have genetic disorders, provide guidance and care, and make them feel safe with me as their counselor. I also hope to work with non-profits on making genetic testing more accessible and affordable for everyone, because knowing what illnesses we are more likely to have as we age is valuable information when it comes to prevention. I will be working with organizations as a consultant and advocate to achieve my future goals in healthcare.

When I think of my community, I think of all the individuals that have lived their lives here in the past, present, and future and how they could benefit from my help. Community involvement is meaningful because it improves my social well-being and the well-being of others. My part-time job through college has been as a licensed in-home caretaker for seniors and the disabled in my community. It started with care-taking for my mother who suffered from a seizure, but has blossomed into a labor of love through the people I have provided assistance to. My patients have told me stories, kept me grounded, gave me life changing advice, and added great value to my life. Care-taking for a variety of people has actually inspired me to become an Anthropology major and pursue my future career in Genetic Counseling. As a Genetic Counselor with an Anthropology background, I want to use my knowledge of humanity and genetics to educate families about their genetic backgrounds, connect with them on a deeper and more personal level, and guide them through their predispositions to future illnesses. I would like to especially work with children who have genetic disorders, provide guidance and care, and make them feel safe with me as their counselor. I also hope to work with non-profits on making genetic testing more accessible and affordable for everyone, because knowing what illnesses we are more likely to have as we age is valuable information when it comes to prevention. I will be working with organizations as a consultant and advocate to achieve my future goals in healthcare.

I aspire to make a positive impact on the world by being the most patient, kind, and caring Genetic Counselor that I can be. The world of genetics is growing, and as more people begin to get tested and learn about themselves, it can be scary and intimidating information to process. Part of my job will be to counsel my patients and help them to fully understand their predispositions to certain diseases or conditions they may have. I also will help parents understand the genetic issues their child may have. This is why I will also be minoring in child development, so that I can have a greater understanding of the children that I counsel and how they may process emotional events differently than adults. I would also like to help make genetic testing more accessible for everyone. If we all had access to genetic testing early in our lives and had this information during our regularly scheduled doctors visits, we would be able to make medications much more personalized to the individual as well as combat certain diseases before they start. As of right now, medications are prescribed to everyone as a one-size-fits most scenario, and bad reactions are only seen through trial-and-error. Access to testing would ensure a personalized fit of medication as well as prevention of certain diseases, which is incredibly important in the healthcare system.

I aspire to make a positive impact on the world by being the most patient, kind, and caring Genetic Counselor that I can be. The world of genetics is growing, and as more people begin to get tested and learn about themselves, it can be scary and intimidating information to process. Part of my job will be to counsel my patients and help them to fully understand their predispositions to certain diseases or conditions they may have. I also will help parents understand the genetic issues their child may have. This is why I will also be minoring in child development, so that I can have a greater understanding of the children that I counsel and how they may process emotional events differently than adults. I also have spent the last two years of my life working as a licensed caretaker in Southern California, which is what originally sparked my desire to help others. I was fortunate enough to work with a variety of people, mostly the elderly and some disabled, others with genetic conditions which greatly peaked my interest of how one genetic mutation can really change everything. These people require patience, empathy and understanding that I want to be capable of providing. My hopes are that I will be able to help enough people in my career that I will have made a substantial difference in their lives and that of their children. I hope to gain as much knowledge as humanly possible throughout my career and be a beacon of support for my patients. I would also like to help make genetic testing more accessible for everyone. If we all had access to genetic testing early in our lives and had this information during our regularly scheduled doctors visits, we would be able to make medications much more personalized to the individual as well as combat certain diseases before they start. As of right now, medications are prescribed to everyone as a one-size-fits most scenario, and bad reactions are only seen through trial-and-error. Access to testing would ensure a personalized fit of medication as well as prevention of certain diseases, which is incredibly important in the healthcare system. Outside of my career, I would also like to be a foster for animals with disabilities. They are often overcrowded in the shelter system and I wish to open up my home until they get officially adopted. My senior dog, Pepper, inspired me to want to help other animals have a better life.

There was a recent study done that compares our DNA to that of our closest relative, the chimpanzee, and it looks into why our brains are so much more evolved than theirs, even though our DNA is so similar. Stem cell researchers at the Lund University in Sweden examined the DNA of both humans and chimpanzees by turning stem cells into brain cells of both species. The brain cells of humans and chimpanzees were then compared, and they found major differences in an unexpected place, the “junk” DNA. This non-coded majority, which makes up 98% of our DNA, has always been considered to be non-functioning because it does not produce proteins like the other 2%. These new findings suggest that the human evolution of the brain is much more complicated than previously assumed, and there are functions that were previously disregarded in region of the "junk" area. The stem cell method they used of reprogramming stem cells into specialized ones is important because it is, as the article describes, an “ethically defensible” way to do research compared to how researches used to obtain brain cells. The results of this study have furthered the understanding of the complexity of the human brain, and opens a door into non-coded DNA suggesting it should not be overlooked. As an Anthropology major hoping to go to Graduate’s school for Genetic Counseling, new discoveries like these are why genetics is such an exciting field to be in right now.

I aspire to make a positive impact on the world by being the most patient, kind, and caring Genetic Counselor that I can be. The world of genetics is growing, and as more people begin to get tested and learn about themselves, it can be scary and intimidating information to process. Part of my job will be to counsel my patients and help them to fully understand their predispositions to certain diseases or conditions they may have. I also will help parents understand the genetic issues their child may have. This is why I will also be minoring in child development, so that I can have a greater understanding of the children that I counsel and how they may process emotional events differently than adults. I also have spent the last two years of my life working as a licensed caretaker in Southern California, which is what originally sparked my desire to help others. I was fortunate enough to work with a variety of people, mostly the elderly and some disabled, others with genetic conditions which greatly peaked my interest of how one genetic mutation can really change everything. These people require patience, empathy and understanding that I want to be capable of providing. My hopes are that I will be able to help enough people in my career that I will have made a substantial difference in their lives and that of their children. I hope to gain as much knowledge as humanly possible throughout my career and be a beacon of support for my patients. I would also like to help make genetic testing more accessible for everyone. If we all had access to genetic testing early in our lives and had this information during our regularly scheduled doctors visits, we would be able to make medications much more personalized to the individual as well as combat certain diseases before they start. As of right now, medications are prescribed to everyone as a one-size-fits most scenario, and bad reactions are only seen through trial-and-error. Access to testing would ensure a personalized fit of medication as well as prevention of certain diseases, which is incredibly important in the healthcare system. Outside of my career, I would also like to be a foster for animals with disabilities. They are often overcrowded in the shelter system and I wish to open up my home until they get officially adopted. My senior dog, Pepper, inspired me to want to help other animals have a better life.

"What you're not changing, you're choosing." These are words that I live by because, for the longest time, I had complained about a life that I was not trying to change. I worked the same job for seven years, and was in the same relationship for four, although neither of them fulfilled me or led to the life I was trying to leave. I stayed this way until I hit my emotional rock-bottom, and through an act of bravery I ended both in the same week! Although intimidating at first, this was when I really saw my own growth begin to flourish. Instead of finding another minimum wage job, I enrolled in college. Instead of trying to date, I decided to try and find myself before I found someone else to distract me from myself. Through small changes day by day, I began to build the life that I hoped for myself, with purpose and meaning. I realized that I wanted to work in Genetic Counseling where I could help people understand their conditions, and be a beacon of support for them through their transitions. I struggled in my past life, but I realized that by doing nothing, I was choosing it. That is why these words are so important to me.

The most inspiring book I have read is "Hurt Go Happy" by Ginny Rorby. I read this book when I was only ten years old, but I felt a huge emotional response while reading it, and to this day it is something that I recommend to everyone. This story is about thirteen-year-old Joey Willis, who is deaf but not allowed to learn sign language, and struggles to communicate and connect with those around her. When Joey meets Sukari, a baby chimpanzee and her owner Dr. Mansell, her world changes as they teach her how to sign. She forms a deep bond with Sukari and the doctor who rescued her from a medical research company. There are some sad components to this book, including loneliness, past animal abuse, and the struggle of being disabled, all things that are unfortunate realities in our world. In the end I could hardly put this book down, and it is a terrific book for anyone interesting in animals or interested in the challenges of being deaf.

This is Pepper! She is a five pound Chihuahua mix who was a rescue at seven years old, although I could say that she rescued me. She is now fifteen- and living her absolute best life! Although she is a little older, she is spunky, playful, and a sweet little soul who loves to watch geese at the park and go for car rides.

My dream is to become a Genetic Counselor, and to be a prominent figure in the genetics field. Ever since I was a child, I have been fascinated by the science of people and how they evolved into the modern human. I am also fascinated by traits and heredity, and being able to explain to others how their DNA affects them and their future. As a Genetic Counselor, a typical day would include assessing genetic risk factors for individuals, educate them or their families on any disorder they (or their children) may have, provide resources, research, and emotional support. To me, providing emotional support and guidance will be one of the most important aspects of my career, as I plan on working in Pre-natal and Pediatric Counseling. This is why I am double-majoring in Anthropology and Psychology before I attend Graduate's school! I intend on being an empathetic and emotionally sensitive genetic counselor, because from experience, empathy is crucial in the healthcare community. I also hope to be a strong voice in the genetics field, making genetic knowledge more accessible for everyone by being a consultant for companies in this growing market.

One of my proudest accomplishments is that I am a licensed in-home caretaker for seniors and the disabled in my community. This journey started with my mother, who suffered from permanent frontal lobe damage after a seizure and subsequent fall. When we realized that she needed extra help for basic everyday things, I became her caretaker. All throughout high school I learned how to organize medications, started cooking meals, doing laundry, and running errands. When I was obtaining my associates degree, I realized that this could become licensed and help those in my community in my spare time. It has been extremely rewarding so far. Through my experiences I have learned more empathy, time management and communication skills than I could have ever imagined. Some of my elderly clients are so calm, patient and wise, it brings me great joy to help them and talk to them about the lives that they led. Another one of my clients has down's syndrome- his motivation to be independent every day is so incredibly inspiring to watch. Helping those in my community has led to my major in Anthropology and my future career in Genetic Counseling, and has given me life skills in how to succeed in my field!

By the time I graduated from high school, I was diagnosed with anorexia, bulimia, and a binge-eating disorder. I was not very thin growing up- and my family often reminded me of that at a young age. I first realized that they had a problem with my weight with when I was nine years old. My grandmother told me that I should become a "dancer" because it made her thin, and then she proceeded to look me up and down as she was giving me recommendations on weight loss. By the time I was ten years old, my dad began to put me on a scale and record my BMI, forcing me to exercise, often calling my mom to accuse her of overfeeding me. I would like to add that I was never medically obese, but I was made to feel embarrassed of my size and the idea that "thin is best" was molded into my brain. Throughout middle school I still loved to eat until I was full, but I also felt like it was wrong because all of my friends were naturally a size two, and I was a size six. It was when I was in high-school that I had mentally and physically transformed into a different person. I was going through an admittedly traumatic experience at home. I was removed from my mother's custody because she had a heavy drug and alcohol addiction, as well as a slew of mental illnesses from severe depression to bipolar disorder. I had seen a lot of pain and burdens before moving into my father's house full-time, and I felt isolated and alone. The one thing that I could control was food and my appearance, because I thought that looking more standardly beautiful would make me feel better on the inside. The loss of appetite was understandable at first, but when I shed my first ten pounds and the compliments came flooding in, that was when my addiction started. It started slow, but then all at once, and I had lost 40 pounds within the first year of my disorder. I would take a protein bar and make it last from 7:00am-4:00pm. I had dropped so much weight that there was a rumor was flowing around that I was addicted to drugs because of my new appearance. I had anemia and my hair was falling out. For years I knew that I had a problem, but I admit that my peers were not as helpful as they should have been. I was consumed by my disorder and I was received a mixed bag of comments regarding my body every day, either they wished they were as thin as me, or making rude remarks. I was asked if I had cancer, and a coworker once said "ew" when she fixed my apron because of my small size. I would like to say I am currently and very proudly in recovery from my ED and have been for three years. I had one very close friend escort me to therapy on her own dime, and that was when I had my official diagnosis. These past three years that I have been in recovery I have learned that making comments to other's about their body is never okay, because everyone has battles that we know nothing about. If someone seems like they need help, they do not need to be stigmatized or gossiped about. Empathy and compassion go a long way, that one friend coming to me with honest intentions saved my life, and I hope to extend that to others in need.

1. I am a 24 year old female who aspires to be a Genetic Counselor, and hopes to become a significant presence in the Genetics Field. I have been fascinated by the sciences ever since I was a child. I have taken, Biology, Astronomy, Environmental Science, and Chemistry until I realized my passion for Genetics. There are quite a few things that motivate me and give me my ambitious drive, but my primary goal is to have a career where I can guide others to make better decisions for themselves and their families, and educate them on how to live their best lives. I am specifically motivated by my achievements. My would love to accomplish everything that seems intimidating or out of my reach, including obtaining my Master's degree in Genetic Counseling and excelling in my industry. Outside of my career, I hope to grow as an individual by being the most kind and empathetic person, and extend a helping hand to those around me. I have faced many adversities in my lifetime. I have lived in low-income housing, nearly lost a parent to addiction, struggled with internal and external issues, all of which have led me to where I am right now. If I had the means to help others emotionally or financially, I would do just that. I want to be a positive role model and advocate in my community. I work part-time as a licensed caretaker, and I would love to recruit others to join me in that fulfilling and rewarding experience. 2. Women are an incredibly important (and underutilized) addition to the STEM field, and I am grateful to be a part of that growing community. Our body of knowledge is constantly evolving and we are making new discoveries in science and technology every day. This is why the field of Genetics is so incredibly exciting, because it is growing exponentially, especially in my chosen field which currently has a growth rate of 26%. As a Genetic Counselor, I would need equal parts training in understanding genetic disorders, trials and testing, and as well as a strong background in Psychology and Counseling to support those going through hardships with their condition. My past experiences will allow me to have an empathetic side to my profession in healthcare, patience will my clients, and help them to feel understood. I could also partake in Genetic Consulting for current businesses that are trying to make genetic information more accessible and integrated into our healthcare system. Outside of consulting, I would also have the opportunity to inform others on the importance of having access to their genetic information. I could help other people make life-improving choices for themselves and their children. The aspect of being a positive role model, helping others and being an advocate for Genetics is what excites me the most about this field. 3. When I was fourteen years old, I was removed from my mother's custody for the second time. She was heavily dependent on drugs and alcohol, dealt with severe bipolar disorder and depression, and I was in a declining environment until I was officially removed from my home. My father took me in, but I can admit that I had a difficult transition. I was just starting my teenage years with a lot of heavy emotions that I was trying to handle, with no outlet and no one to talk to. My father typically avoided serious conversations, and as an only child I had no one to really share my experiences with and I felt isolated at home and at school, where I had become the new topic for other kids to gossip about. Although I was going through an admittedly traumatic experience, I did not allow it to hinder me academically. I used my education and learning as a form of healing, it gave me structure, organization, and an objective to focus on. I started to excel in my classes and took things out of my comfort zone. I became fascinated with biological sciences, taking AP Environmental Science and Science of the Human Mind, which led to my passion for genetics and heredity. Three years later, after my graduation, my mother became partially disabled due to a seizure and suffered from some mental handicaps. This was when I was tested in my ability to forgive and move on, which I embraced and became her part-time caretaker. Since then, I have become fully licensed and provide help for seniors in my community. I believe that my experiences in trying to understand her and humankind as a whole have led to my major. Life is short and people, including family, will never be perfect. We all have something to offer others, whether it be our care, empathy or time.

Although COVID was life-altering for many of us, there were a few parts of my experience that have guided me on the path I am on now Before COVID, I had no set career goals. I worked a full-time job in food-service, took some classes for credit, but I never knew what to say when I was asked about my future career. When my restaurant closed and my mother got sick, and I was at home all day to reflect. Something clicked in me that I wanted a career where I could help people, educate them, and guide them towards a healthy lifestyle. In my research I realized that I want to be a Genetic Counselor. I have been fascinated by science and genetics ever since I was a child. I never thought that I could have a career in it- until I saw how uneducated people can be. I could be a leader in genetics healthcare, and guide people on how to make the best choices for their families and themselves based on their genetic backgrounds. The pandemic changed the way we see our health, and because of it I was able to find my future.

When I was fourteen, I was removed from my mother's custody. She was diagnosed with bipolar disorder and depression, dependent on drugs and alcohol, and I was in a very chaotic environment until I was removed from my home. I remember that I went through a lot as an only child. She had attempted suicide multiple times, had hallucinations, would stay in bed for days and abuse substances to cope with what was going on inside of her head. It was not my choice because I actually loved my mom dearly, but my home was deemed unsafe and I had to say goodbye. My father took me in but admit that I had a difficult transition. He typically avoided serious conversations and discussions of mental health, and as an only child I had no one to really share my experiences with. I was going through a traumatic experience and I was worried for my mother's declining condition every day. I struggled with anxiety and depression, I had terrible mood swings and isolated myself often. However, I did not allow it to hinder me academically. I used my education as a form of healing, it gave me structure, organization, and an objective to focus on. I started to excel in my classes and took things out of my comfort zone. I became fascinated with biological sciences which led to my passion for genetics. Because of my interest in mental disorders and addiction being passed on through our Biology, I aspire to be a Genetic Counselor with a secondary major in Anthropology. I would also have the opportunity to inform others on the importance of having access to their genetic information and how it could affect their mental health and coping mechanisms. I could help other people make life-improving choices for themselves and their children. The aspect of being a positive role model, helping others and being an advocate for Genetics is what excites me the most about this field. Three years later, my mother became partially disabled due to a seizure. I had already been through therapy on my own accord, learned about myself and about what she could be going through. This was when I was tested in my ability to forgive, and to improve our relationship, which I embraced. I became her in-home caretaker, escorted her to treatments, organized her medications, and spent time with her, all things I still do today. I believe that my experiences in trying to understand her and humankind as a whole have led to my major and future career. I also have become a certified in-home caretaker which has led me to see other people who struggle- and need kindness and empathy in their everyday lives. Life is short and people, including family, will never be perfect. I have also learned the importance of understanding others offering them our care and time. Sometimes it is easy to write someone off because of their mental illnesses and get angry with them for how they act. However, people with mental disorders do not always have control over their thoughts and feelings. It can be very scary for them and something I may never fully understand unless we live through it ourselves. We all have something to offer others, whether it be our care, empathy or time, and those with mental illnesses deserve empathy the most.

I was fourteen when I was removed from my mother's custody, and my life was completely uprooted. She was dependent on drugs and alcohol, and although I was in a very chaotic environment, it was not my choice to leave. I had to say goodbye in the back of a patrol car and I never returned home. My father took me in, but admit that I had a difficult transition. He typically avoided serious conversations, and as an only child I had no one to really share my experiences with and I felt isolated from my family and friends. Although I was going through a traumatic experience, I did not allow it to hinder me academically. I used my education as a form of healing, it gave me structure, organization, and an objective to focus on. I started to excel in my classes and took courses well out of my comfort zone. I became fascinated with biological sciences which led to my passion for genetics. Three years later, my mother became partially disabled due to a seizure. This was when I was tested in my ability to forgive, which I embraced. I believe that my experiences in trying to understand her and humankind as a whole have led to my major. Life is short and people, including family, will never be perfect. We all have something to offer others, whether it be our care, empathy or time.

Self care is how you take your power back. I know that I, any many others, have struggled or will struggle with our mental health in the future. I am prone to depression, anxiety, and there have been many times in my life where I wanted to give up and stop trying. Something that my mother taught me when I was younger is that mental health breaks and self-care are crucial, even to those who are the most ambitious. When I feel that overwhelming feeling of anxiety and heaviness settling in, I stop what I am doing and I ask myself, "What is one kind thing that you can do for yourself right now?" Kindness towards ourselves comes in many forms. Sometimes it can be as as simple as cooking out favorite meal, turning on a mindless tv show, taking a shower, or going for a walk. My favorite form of self-care is putting on my running shoes and my headphones, and walk for as long as I need to until I feel better. The serotonin from getting my muscles moving, the fresh air, and space away from school and work are the perfect way to get myself back in check. There is also no shame in asking for help! Our friends and family are there to help us heal and grow, and we should never be afraid to lean on our loved ones for support. Our mental health can be nurtured by taking care of ourselves and allowing ourselves to lean on others.

I am exceptionally proud of the fact that I was in a leadership role for five out of the seven years that I worked at Nekter Juice Bar. I was introduced to my first job there when I was fifteen years old. At first I was extremely introverted, too nervous to communicate, and I remember that I often wanted to hide behind the counter because I thought I had very poor social skills. Over time however, I learned the ins and outs of how to efficiently run a store and put in my best effort every single day. Outside of the classroom my work ethic and values were being built, I learned how to take direction and give it to others, my social skills skyrocketed, and I became a leader of my own team. My biggest takeaway from this job is that I actually have wonderful communication skills when I feel confident, and can even lead a team of my own. Being placed in a leadership position to not only run the shifts, but also train the staff, was intimidating at first. Respect is not automatically gained. I am feminine, petite, and sometimes soft-spoken. I could have not been taken seriously, however I decided to lead and direct with sheer confidence. When I found my leadership voice, I completely transformed into an outgoing, enthusiastic, and highly praised leader and realized that I thrive in a leadership position. I personally connected with every staff member and every customer in my store from all ages, races and genders. During my time there, we also had to move positive comments from corporate to date: the cleanest, most enthusiastic, and most helpful staff. As I am aging and maturing, I recognize that I will carry these skills with me for life. Wherever my future career in Genetic Counseling takes me, I will be exercising my skills of communication and motivation and how to make people feel significant. I may have started at the bottom of a minimum wage job, but we can learn these crucial skills in the most unexpected places. This is why being a leader is important to be, it gave me confidence and also is a great example to others who may feel that they might not be good enough at first. Even the most shy of people have the ability to become great leaders.

One of my proudest accomplishments is that I am a certified in-home caretaker for the elderly. I started my journey as a caretaker with my mother, who became disabled due to a seizure, but since becoming certified I have had the rewarding experience of meeting a variety of people, and the elderly have made the greatest impact. Being an Anthropology major, I have always been fascinated by the complexity and diversity of people. My passion for Anthropology started when I took Evolution of the Human Mind at Saddleback. We read dozens of scholarly articles involving human nature and connection, and it is arguably the most important course I have taken to date. What is amazing to see as a caretaker is the diversity of people in action. I have learned the most from my elderly patients. They have taught me to be kind, to be humble, and most importantly they have taught me patience. Just observing some older people in their lives can help us empathize with others in various situations. One of my favorite patients, Jean, once gave me a great piece of advice: "Unless you work hard on this limited time on Earth, your time may be wasted." Because of Jean I have declared my major and future career as a Genetic Counselor, where I help people to understand their health through their genes. It is people like her who can change the lives of our next generations, and that is what we can learn from the elderly.

Albert Einstein once said, “Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better.” This quote I find true because I am at my happiest when I am immersed in nature. I grew up with anxiety and can get overstimulated pretty easily. In between classes I throw on my running shoes, put my dog on her leash, and spend that hour outside exploring the trail. As a Biology major would, I always stop to study the flora and fauna, snapping pictures of unique plants and trees and glancing at the different species of birds. The small burbling creek is quiet and serene, and when my dog and I sit there I can treasure the silence. With COVID hitting hard and having to involuntarily move my classes online, this helps to beat the technology fatigue and immerse myself in the outdoors. I believe that nature makes us healthier and happier, inspires positive emotion, tranquility, and makes us more grounded.

Friendships are relationships of choice. Some of my best memories from my childhood, and even my worst memories later on, remind me of the friends that were by my side. Some of them are still there today, which I am forever grateful for. My childhood best friend, Emma, brought me in as a scared and crying kindergartener to her small group of friends, and made me feel at home in a new and unfamiliar place. We painted pictures, though she was much better than me, raced on the playground, picked fruit off the school’s pomegranate trees, and danced all night at every sleepover we had. My best friend from my teenage years to today is Jasmine, and she is the complete opposite of me in every way possible. She has stood by my side through every decision I have ever made and even kept my secrets, even when I did not know she even knew them. With COVID and growing older, and being in academics, it is easy to lose touch with our friends. However, I have learned so much from them! From the women I grew up with I have learned that friendship is trust, unconditional love without judgement, even if we don’t always share the same interests or attitudes. Friendship is a chosen family and should never be neglected.

Self-care is a full time job. I may be in my early twenties, but I have a top tier busy schedule and succumb to stress pretty often! Not only am I a full-time student with three animals of my own, I am also a caretaker for my mother who has had health complications after a seizure. With all of my responsibilities I often find myself overwhelmed and overstimulated, which is why I include small bits of self-care into my everyday life. Since the peak of COVID I have had to move my studies online, but staring at a computer screen all day long has caused some serious eye strain and technology fatigue. Taking screen breaks and stepping away from technology has been a huge part of my self-care. That hour between classes is when I put on my Nike training shoes, grab my dog, and go for a nice, long walk outside in the fresh air. The light breeze, and the warm sun on my skin always make me feel refreshed and awake before my next class starts and gets the endorphins flowing. I will always prefer this over scrolling on my phone or watching television for hours at a time. Besides physical self-care, I also focus on my mental self-care through journaling. A nice, leather bound journal and pen to paper is a relaxing way of writing out my goals for the day, prioritizing my goals, concerns, and positive self-talk. Self-care is not a one-size fits all strategy, but these therapeutic techniques are important to me because they enhance my well being and my cognitive function, making for a better day.