Were you in the foster care system? Yes My name is Charlize and I grew up in New Jersey, and I am now living in Pennsylvania. I was officially adopted when I was three years old, and two years after I was born my parents received a call asking if my sister and I could stay together. From the beginning of my life, I have experienced what it feels like to be cared for and chosen. That foundation shaped who I am today. I am currently a high school senior and work as a co-op medical assistant for St. Lukes Health Network. Ever since I was little, I have loved to care for others, and I am grateful to be serving patients in a real healthcare setting. Working in healthcare has strengthened my desire to pursue medicine. As I considered what I was going to major in for pre medicine, I deeply thought on how I was going to use my major to make a positive impact. I chose neuroscience because it allows me to understand people at the most essential level. While biology and chemistry are common pre-med majors, neuroscience offers a more comprehensive perspective. It ties human behavior, emotion, and decision making to chemical and cellular processes. People often ask “why” when it comes to their well-being, and neuroscience helps answer those questions through science. In my position as a medical assistant, I have seen strengths and gaps within the healthcare system. A crucial lesson I have learned is the value of listening to patients. Many patients just want to be heard, respected, and engaged in their care. Neuroscience can contribute to creating treatments that align with real human behavior. I can help patients adapt to their care plans without disrupting their daily lives. By understanding how the brain responds to stress, illness, and sudden changes, I hope to contribute to patient-centered approaches that improve quality of life. Another issue I am compassionate about is provider burnout. Healthcare professionals face persistent burnout. Balancing patient care, documentation, and demands can be stressful over time. That stress can take a neurological toll. I would like to research how the brain processes chronic stress and develop plans to help medical students and providers escape burnout. Supporting providers can help with the quality of a patient’s care. Outside of research, I believe that a positive impact begins within the community. People often receive inadequate health care due to insurance limitations and socioeconomic factors. I hope to work in smaller marginalized communities and provide quality care. Small things like health education, preventative screenings, or even a conversation can help tremendously. Making someone feel valued, safe, and appreciated can make a difference in someone’s life. For me, impact is not just scaled by large change but by everyday interaction. The time we take to converse with patients, explain, and show empathy can change someone’s life. I want people to realize how important the brain and overall health are in daily life. Through science, compassion, and community service I plan to create an environment where everyone belongs.