1) Yes 2) 100,000 3) Bachelors Degree Hi, my name is Chiamaka, and I’m from Kent, WA, a suburb just outside of Seattle. I’ve lived in Washington my whole life and attended my state school, UW Seattle. One of my favorite things about growing up here has been the balance of city life and nature. I love exploring new coffee and boba shops, trying out different Asian restaurants in the area, hiking local trails, and spending time with family and friends. My passion for healthcare began during a volunteer shift at a breast cancer center. I remember one patient in particular—a woman who appeared anxious and overwhelmed. While helping her check in and prepare for her appointment, I took a moment to explain the process and answer her questions. By the time she left, she smiled and expressed relief at how supported she felt. That brief interaction left a lasting impression on me: I realized that healthcare is not just about medicine, but about empathy, communication, and helping people feel seen and cared for. That moment solidified my desire to pursue a career where I can combine science with service. Throughout my academic journey, I have focused on both knowledge and practical experience. Working as an ophthalmic technician allowed me to assist patients with conditions such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, and dry eye. I rotated between multiple providers, learning to operate diagnostic equipment, take patient histories, and provide guidance during exams. These responsibilities strengthened my technical skills and taught me how to communicate effectively with patients from diverse backgrounds. Volunteering at the breast cancer center further reinforced the importance of supporting patients beyond clinical tasks, helping staff manage check-ins, room preparation, and paperwork to allow more time for patient care. My education has also taught me resilience and leadership. As a minority student at a predominantly white institution, I encountered challenges navigating pre-health resources. To help others facing similar obstacles, I ran for a leadership position in a pre-health organization, organizing interactive meetings and a pre-professional panel featuring students in medicine, pharmacy, and dentistry. This experience highlighted the value of mentorship, advocacy, and building supportive communities—lessons I carry into every aspect of my development. I aspire to make a positive impact by improving access to care and serving underserved populations. Whether through direct patient care, health education, or community outreach, I hope to combine evidence-based practice with empathy and cultural awareness. I am motivated to advocate for patients facing systemic barriers and to mentor students from underrepresented backgrounds, empowering others to pursue healthcare careers. Beyond patient care, I aim to influence healthcare systems by promoting patient-centered practices. I have learned that true care extends beyond treating symptoms—it involves listening, understanding, and empowering patients to engage in their own health. By integrating these values into my practice, I hope to ensure every patient feels seen, respected, and supported. In summary, my journey has been shaped by academic rigor, hands-on experience, and a commitment to service. I have learned to balance technical skill with compassion, leadership with collaboration, and ambition with empathy. Through my healthcare career, I aim to improve access to care, advocate for underserved communities, and mentor the next generation of professionals, guided by the belief that meaningful change comes from dedication, empathy, and a genuine desire to serve.