I am a rising sophomore currently studying biochemistry at Florida State University. I have always had a passion for science, but I was not always sure what I wanted to do with it. In recent years, I have realized what it means to give back to my community. I have decided that I want to combine my passion for science with my love of helping others by pursuing medical school. Through high school, I always loved giving back to my community because I felt a great sense of redemption through my actions. Currently, I am finding that redemption through FSU's Women's Student Union, where I am constantly involved in activism for Womxn's rights, productive conversation, and working towards building a support system for all women. As a woman in STEM, I have found community through the WIMSE (Women in Math, Science, and Engineering) Society, where I am actively involved in creating and organizing events that bring our community together. I am inspired by many people in my life. As cliche as it may sound, the best example of this is my mom. When we think of hardships in our lives, we often think of the loss of a loved one, rejection, or oppressive societal issues. What we often fail to see is how lucky we are to be surrounded by supportive friends and family, or the ability to be able to communicate how we are feeling to others. My mom did not always have that. She moved to America with her family when she was just 19 or 20, speaking almost no English, and having to jump straight into college with no friends in the country to support her. My mom was completely culture shocked - she has told me that those first few moments in America were very difficult for her and her family - however, this did not stop her. She worked very hard in college learning English as the years went by, finished with her degree, and was able to have a successful career despite all of the setbacks from the beginning. This does not mean my mom never faced any discrimination - as a Russian Jewish woman, my mom has faced three types of discrimination in her life - prejudice against immigrants, antisemitism, and misogyny. In fact, I have personally witnessed people speak to my mom slowly as if she doesn’t speak good English, (even when my mom’s accent isn’t even that noticeable anymore, so it becomes clear that they speak slowly to be condescending, not to be helpful). These moments have taught me that ignorance and prejudice against non-native English speakers and immigrants is still very real - but in light of this, my mom’s patience has taught me something even more important - that your happiness and determination is what gives your life meaning. In the end, all you really have is yourself (and if you are lucky, your family). You are the only one who can choose which path to take. You are the only one who will always be there to love and support you. Your belief in your abilities must come from none other than you. My mom’s perseverance has inspired me to pursue medical school - and no matter what, I can always count on myself (and my mom) to be my biggest supporter. My values as a leader and as a future doctor are based on life lessons such as these - I believe in determination and perseverance against all odds. I believe in fairness, but also strength - and I want others to believe that too.

Had to use numbers, not song titles to save space. 1. Senior year is going by quickly and life is changing rapidly. 2. Accessing your inner kid. 3. Savoring the good times, overcoming fear of the unknown, taking a breath, and living life. 4. Life isn't always perfect. You must look forward - never back. 5. Never give up. 6. Relationships grow and change throughout life. 7. Platonically or romantically, it's good to have someone there. 8. Victory. Good energy boost. More about the feeling than the lyrics. 9. Cooldown period - favorite song on a calm day. 10. Love.