My name is Charlize Cantu, and I am a high school sophomore at Texas Academy of Biomedical Sciences. My mother is a lesbian woman who has single-handedly grown me into the woman I have become. Growing up with a single parent in the LGBTQ+ community has shaped my perspective on life and taught me the importance of resilience and education. My mother has always been my biggest supporter and role model. She faced many challenges as a single parent, but her determination and strength were unwavering. She constantly worked hard to provide for my 6 siblings and I. She never had a moment where her love or trust in us shifted, and she maintained a loving environment for us the entire time. I plan to use my education in biology to educate the LGBTQ+ community on health and wellness, as well as healthy sexual encounters. I believe that knowledge is power, and by spreading awareness and providing accurate information, we can help reduce health disparities and promote overall well-being. My goal is to create programs and resources that are accessible and inclusive, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to lead a healthy and fulfilling life. In addition to my academic pursuits, I have been actively involved in my community. I volunteer at a local food bank, where I have seen firsthand the importance of community support and the impact it can have on individuals and families. This experience has reinforced my commitment to giving back and making a difference in the lives of others. I am also a member of Health Occupations Students of America, which has allowed me to explore my passion for healthcare and develop leadership skills. Through HOSA, I have participated in various events and competitions, furthering my knowledge and understanding of the medical field. These experiences have solidified my desire to pursue a career in healthcare and make a positive impact on the world. My high school GPA of 4.0 reflects my dedication to my studies and my commitment to academic excellence. I have received awards in both science and math, which are subjects I am passionate about and plan to continue studying in college. I believe that my strong academic background, combined with my personal experiences and community involvement, make me a strong candidate for the M.R. Brooks Scholarship. In conclusion, my mother's strength and resilience as a single parent in the LGBTQ+ community have inspired me to use my education to make a positive impact on the world. By educating the LGBTQ+ community on health and wellness, I hope to promote overall well-being and reduce health disparities. I am committed to giving back to my community and making a difference in the lives of others. Thank you for considering my application for the M.R. Brooks Scholarship.

Technology has had a pivotal role in the development of medical care, and such advancement has resulted in immense profit for healthcare workers. It has shown substantial promise in increasing the ease and viability of procedures for both patients and health professionals, as well as improving the comfort and safety of patients during procedures. Technology in healthcare has made care more efficient and innocuous. Invasive procedures that are vulnerable to human error. Where humans may face error, technological creations may not. Inventions such as the da Vinci Surgical System have completely removed any chance of mistake or slip up, as well as making health care simpler for both the doctor and patient. Using an innovative piece of technology, one can prevent easily made errors while also providing reassurance to doctors. Healthcare professionals can leverage technology in order to improve the comfort and welfare of patients. Using technological creations, healthcare professionals can improve the lives of patients and make procedures more tranquil. Inventions such as the up-and-coming artificial womb can mimic the human body in order to provide a safe and comfortable environment for patients while evading any complication. One example of an invention that has greatly impacted the field of healthcare is the MRI, or magnetic resonance imaging, which has made the viewing of body systems much easier for professionals. The MRI uses magnetic waves to view organs, vessels, bones, and muscles. Prior to this invention, more invasive and dangerous procedures were done, and the chances of living were much slimmer. Thanks to this technological device, patients are at little to no risk of harm when they get an MRI. Another example of technology that has improved health care is the X-ray. The X-ray was developed in a time of great need, and it served to aid many people globally. Using radiation, it managed to show images of the bones, which could not be done previously. Before the invention of the X-ray, limbs were disposed of at every chance, without any sort of inspection being done. With the help of the X-ray professionals were able to rule out amputations from simple procedures. This innovation greatly improved healthcare. Technology in healthcare has resulted in unimaginable advancement, increasing the success, ease, and feasibility of medical care. Inventions such as the MRI have reduced the risk and labor required during procedures. With the aid of technology, healthcare professionals can improve the lives of patients without lifting a single finger

My experience with mental health has shaped me into a more empathetic and understanding person. I struggled a lot as I grew up. I believed something was wrong with me, and that my issues with mental health made me different. I endured the pain until I was taken to a mental hospital at age 12. It was there that I learned that having depression doesn’t make me different, It makes me stronger. My time at a mental hospital wasn’t all good, and I struggled to feel safe and at ease. Through the dark times, I became friends with the girls there: Isabella, Zariya, and Maria. They showed me that no matter where you are, you are not alone, and we are all going through similar things. Throughout all the trials and tribulations, I, with the aid of my new friends, endured every tough battle. Every instance just showed me that those struggling with mental health aren’t just strangers with issues, but friends. They’re people who I can understand and feel at home with. I came to the realization that everyone around me is going through something, and the best I can do is provide a safe space for them. My experiences with my mental health shaped me into an empathetic and caring person that I can be proud of.