My name is Danice McCallmon, and while I wasn’t in the foster care system, I know what it’s like to be separated from family and to grow up relying on the care of someone who wasn’t my biological parent. I migrated from Jamaica as a child, and while my mother stayed behind to work and provide for me, I was placed under the guardianship of my aunt here in the United States. My aunt became more than a guardian she became a safe space, a provider, and the reason I was able to start building a life in a new country. Though I was not a foster child, I understand how hard it is to be in unfamiliar places, to long for stability, and to fight through feelings of being alone while still trying to stay focused on a better future. Those early experiences made me stronger and gave me a heart for helping others who are going through struggles of their own. I want to pursue a degree in nursing not just because I enjoy science or because healthcare is a stable career, but because I believe nursing is one of the most hands-on, human-centered ways to make a real impact in the lives of others. I’ve always been drawn to children, especially those who have experienced trauma, neglect, or poverty. I know that even a small act of kindness or care can leave a lasting impact on someone going through a tough time. That’s why my dream is to become a pediatric nurse and use my skills to serve underprivileged communities both locally and abroad. One of my biggest goals is to join medical mission trips in low-income neighborhoods and countries, offering care to children and families who don’t have access to proper medical services. I’ve seen what poverty looks like back home in Jamaica, and I’ve seen the cracks in the healthcare system here as well. I want to be the kind of nurse who listens, shows compassion, and makes people feel seen and cared for. I want to give my future patients the kind of support I wish I had when I was younger and adjusting to a new world without my mother by my side. Jose’s story really touched me. Even with the little he had, he gave so much. That’s the kind of legacy I want to create for myself. Whether I’m working a shift at a hospital, spending time volunteering, or comforting a scared child, I want to live a life that honors the power of giving especially when it comes from the heart. I may not have grown up with a lot, but I’ve always had a desire to give back. And I believe that with the help of this scholarship, I can go even further in that mission. The Jose Montanez Memorial Scholarship would not only relieve a financial burden but would remind me that people believe in students like me, students who’ve faced challenges, who’ve grown through them, and who want to use their stories to uplift others. It would be a huge part of my journey, and I would carry the spirit of this scholarship with me throughout my education and career. Thank you for considering me as someone worthy of honoring Jose’s legacy. I hope to make a lasting impact, just as he did.

Education is more than just textbooks and lectures—it’s a powerful tool that can shape lives, open doors, and spark change. I believe that furthering my education will not only help me grow as a person, but also give me the knowledge and skills I need to make a real, lasting impact in the world and in the communities around me. For me, education is deeply personal. I come from a background where opportunities weren’t always guaranteed, and I’ve seen firsthand what happens when people don’t have access to the resources they need. That’s why I want to use my education as a way to break barriers—not just for myself, but for others. I want to become someone who doesn’t just succeed, but reaches back to lift others up. Through further education, I will gain the tools to understand the systems around me—how they work, how they fail, and most importantly, how they can be improved. Whether it’s healthcare, education, housing, or access to basic needs, I want to be someone who uses what I’ve learned to challenge injustice and offer solutions that make a difference. With every class I take, every project I complete, and every experience I grow through, I’ll be sharpening my ability to serve others. I plan to focus my education on areas that matter most to me—like healthcare and community outreach. I want to learn not just the science or technical side of things, but the human side as well. I want to understand people—what they go through, what they need, and how I can show up for them in ways that are thoughtful, respectful, and lasting. Education can teach me how to listen better, communicate clearer, and lead with compassion. But impact doesn’t always come from big, dramatic acts. Sometimes it’s the small, everyday things that truly change lives—checking in on a struggling classmate, volunteering time to help the elderly, tutoring someone who’s falling behind, or offering support when someone feels alone. I want my education to help me be more aware of these moments and to be ready to act with kindness and confidence when they come. There will be challenges. There will be times when I’m tired, overwhelmed, or unsure of myself. But I see those challenges as necessary. Growth doesn’t come from staying comfortable. It comes from pushing forward even when things are tough. I believe that by staying focused on my purpose—to serve others—I can keep going. Education gives me not just a path, but a sense of direction. It reminds me of what’s possible. In the future, I hope to work directly with underserved communities, creating programs that provide resources, education, and support for those in need. I want to be someone who listens first, then takes action. Someone who doesn’t just care—but commits. Whether I’m working in a hospital, a classroom, a nonprofit, or right in my own neighborhood, I’ll use everything I’ve learned to bring hope and help wherever I can. In the end, education is more than a degree. It’s a responsibility. I’m not just learning for me—I’m learning for every person I hope to impact. And that’s what keeps me motivated: knowing that my future education has the power to change more than just my life. It can change the lives of others too—and that’s the kind of impact I want to make.

Volunteering with an equine-based nonprofit has been one of the most rewarding and transformative experiences of my life. It has taught me valuable lessons about patience, responsibility, and the power of nonverbal communication. Horses are incredibly perceptive animals that respond to energy, body language, and consistency, requiring me to develop a sense of trust and confidence in my abilities. Through working with them, I have gained a deeper understanding of leadership—not through dominance, but through mutual respect and clear communication. Learning to guide a horse effectively has shown me the importance of staying calm, focused, and persistent, even in difficult situations. One of the most profound lessons I have learned is that success does not come from force or impatience, but from persistence, gentleness, and understanding. Horses mirror the emotions of those around them, meaning that frustration or nervousness will only lead to resistance. This has taught me how to regulate my own emotions and approach challenges with a steady and patient mindset. Whether working with an anxious horse or assisting a rider who is hesitant, I have learned that true leadership is about creating a sense of safety and trust. This skill extends far beyond the barn, as it has helped me become more patient in everyday life, whether in academics, teamwork, or personal relationships. Additionally, my time at the nonprofit has strengthened my ability to work with others toward a shared goal. Taking care of horses is not a solo effort—it requires teamwork, communication, and a collective commitment to the well-being of the animals. Collaborating with other volunteers and staff has taught me how to coordinate efforts, solve problems efficiently, and support those around me. Whether it’s ensuring the horses are properly fed, maintaining the barn, or assisting with therapy sessions for individuals with special needs, I have seen firsthand how a dedicated team can create a lasting positive impact. This experience has reinforced the idea that service is not just about fulfilling a task but about working together to make a meaningful difference in the lives of both animals and people. Beyond the physical work, volunteering with horses has deepened my appreciation for the power of service and connection. I have had the opportunity to witness the healing effects that horses can have on individuals, whether it be children gaining confidence through riding lessons or individuals with disabilities finding comfort in equine therapy. There is something incredibly powerful about seeing the joy and confidence that these animals bring to people, and being a part of that process has been deeply fulfilling. It has reinforced my belief in the importance of compassion and hard work, not only in volunteering but in all aspects of life. This experience has shaped me into a more empathetic, determined, and responsible person. It has shown me that even small acts of kindness—whether toward an animal or another person—can create ripples of positive change. The lessons I have learned in patience, leadership, teamwork, and service will stay with me for a lifetime, guiding me in my future endeavors and inspiring me to continue making a difference wherever I go.

Speech and debate have played a transformative role in preparing me to share my Christian faith with confidence, clarity, and conviction. Through the countless hours I’ve spent researching, crafting arguments, and delivering speeches, I have developed the ability to communicate effectively and persuasively—skills that are essential when discussing matters of faith. Christianity is not just a belief system; it is a message of hope, love, and truth that deserves to be shared in a way that resonates with others. My experience in speech and debate has helped me refine how I present my beliefs, ensuring that I can share my faith in a way that is both compelling and respectful. One of the most valuable lessons debate has taught me is the power of understanding before responding. Many people have questions about Christianity, and some may even have doubts or misconceptions. Instead of simply stating what I believe, debate has trained me to listen carefully, think critically, and respond thoughtfully. I have learned that truly engaging with someone means acknowledging their perspective and addressing their concerns with both logic and compassion. Faith is not just about reciting Bible verses or presenting theological arguments—it’s about making a genuine connection with people and helping them see the beauty of the gospel in a way that makes sense to them. Furthermore, debate has sharpened my ability to think quickly and remain composed under pressure. Discussions about faith can sometimes become challenging, especially when faced with skepticism or opposition. However, my experience in debate has taught me how to handle difficult questions without becoming defensive or frustrated. Instead of seeing opposing viewpoints as threats, I now see them as opportunities—opportunities to share my faith in a way that is rational, engaging, and grounded in truth. I have learned that persuasion is not about winning an argument but about planting a seed, sparking curiosity, and leaving people with something meaningful to consider. Another way speech and debate have prepared me for sharing my faith is by teaching me the importance of clarity. A well-structured argument in debate is much like a well-structured testimony or gospel presentation—it needs to be clear, logical, and impactful. Through debate, I have practiced breaking down complex ideas into simple, understandable messages, which is crucial when discussing Christianity. Many people may not be familiar with biblical concepts or theological terms, so being able to explain my faith in a way that is accessible and relatable is essential. Most importantly, speech and debate have given me confidence. It’s not always easy to stand up and share my faith, especially in a world where Christianity is sometimes misunderstood or even rejected. But because of debate, I have learned to speak boldly and unapologetically while remaining respectful and kind. I have learned that sharing my faith isn’t just about words—it’s about how I carry myself, how I treat others, and how I demonstrate the love of Christ in my everyday life. Debate has prepared me not just to talk about my faith but to live it in a way that inspires and encourages others.

I see myself as a positive force in society both now and in the future through my dedication to service, advocacy, and the pursuit of equity. My experiences as an immigrant and the challenges I have overcome have shaped my commitment to uplifting those who, like me, have faced obstacles beyond their control. I firmly believe that true progress is achieved not just by personal success but by ensuring that others have the opportunities and resources they need to thrive. Right now, that means engaging in community service, mentoring, and providing support where I can. In the future, it means using my career in nursing to advocate for healthcare accessibility, bridge systemic gaps, and provide care to those who need it most. At present, my impact is rooted in direct community involvement. I have volunteered at shelters, helped organize essential resources for families in need, and mentored younger students who have faced struggles similar to my own. Whether it is providing guidance to a student uncertain about their future or assisting in food drives for struggling families, I have witnessed how small acts of kindness can create ripple effects that extend far beyond what I initially intended. These experiences have reinforced my belief that making a difference is not just about large-scale actions but about the small, consistent efforts we make to uplift those around us. One of the defining moments in my journey toward being a force for good was seeing the direct impact of community support on my own life. Coming from an immigrant background with a single parent, I have experienced firsthand how difficult it can be to access necessary resources. However, I have also witnessed the power of generosity and collective support, whether it be through educational opportunities, mentorship, or simply the kindness of those willing to extend a helping hand. These experiences instilled in me a deep sense of responsibility to give back, knowing that my success is not just my own but a reflection of the support and sacrifices of those who came before me. In the future, I plan to expand my impact through my career in nursing. I view healthcare as more than just a profession—it is an avenue for advocacy and meaningful change. I have seen how healthcare disparities disproportionately affect underprivileged communities, preventing them from receiving proper medical attention due to financial barriers, systemic inequalities, and lack of accessible information. My goal is to bridge this gap by ensuring that every patient, regardless of their background, receives the quality care they deserve. Whether through direct patient care, health education initiatives, or advocating for policy changes that promote equitable healthcare, I want to be a voice for those who often go unheard. Current social norms significantly shape my perspective on being a force for good. We live in a time when issues such as healthcare inequality, racial and economic disparities, and social justice are at the forefront of national and global discussions. While awareness of these issues has grown, there is still a long way to go in terms of real, lasting change. Society often promotes the idea that success is an individual achievement, but in reality, success is deeply interconnected with the opportunities, support systems, and structures that exist—or don’t exist—for different groups of people. This realization has fueled my desire to create change not just for myself but for those who have been denied opportunities due to circumstances beyond their control.

Being Haitian means carrying a legacy of resilience, independence, and unwavering determination. Haiti was the first free Black republic, built by revolutionaries who refused to accept oppression. That same spirit runs through my veins, shaping the way I approach challenges and fueling my ambition to make a difference. As an immigrant raised by a single mother who escaped an abusive relationship, I have witnessed firsthand what it means to fight for a better future. These experiences have shaped not only my character but also my aspirations, driving me toward a career in healthcare where I can serve and uplift others. Growing up, I saw the struggles my mother endured as she worked tirelessly to provide for me in a new country. The obstacles were endless—language barriers, financial instability, and a system that often overlooked people like us. Yet, through it all, my mother remained strong. She taught me that success is not given but earned through perseverance and an unwavering commitment to one’s goals. Watching her navigate the difficulties of being an immigrant woman raising a child alone, I learned that adversity is not something to fear but rather something to overcome. These lessons became the foundation of my drive to succeed, not just for myself, but for my family and my community. Nursing, for me, is more than just a profession; it is a calling. I want to be more than just a healthcare provider—I want to be an advocate for marginalized communities, particularly immigrants and people of color who face systemic barriers to quality medical care. In many Haitian households, health is often neglected due to a lack of access, mistrust in the system, or financial constraints. I have seen loved ones suffer from preventable illnesses simply because they did not have the resources to seek help. This is why I am so passionate about healthcare equity. I want to bridge the gap between communities like mine and the medical resources they desperately need. My commitment to service extends far beyond my career ambitions. Throughout my life, I have sought out ways to give back to my community, understanding that change starts with small but meaningful actions. Whether it was volunteering at local shelters, mentoring younger students, or organizing food drives, I have always felt a sense of responsibility to uplift those around me. One of the most impactful experiences I’ve had was assisting at a community center where I helped provide essential resources to struggling families. Seeing the gratitude in their eyes reminded me of my own family’s journey and reinforced my desire to continue making a difference. As I move forward in my education and career, I plan to expand my efforts by participating in organizations dedicated to medical outreach and public health initiatives. I want to use my skills and knowledge to develop programs that provide healthcare education and services to underserved communities, ensuring that no one is left behind simply because of their background or circumstances. My Haitian heritage has instilled in me a deep sense of responsibility to lift others as I climb, and I am committed to honoring that legacy through my work. Being Haitian means more than just embracing a culture—it means carrying the strength, resilience, and determination of those who came before me. It means understanding that despite the obstacles I may face, I have the power to create change. Through my education and career in nursing, I intend to do just that.

I am passionate about getting an education in STEM because it combines my love for science, technology, engineering, and math with my desire to solve real-world problems. Ever since I was little, I’ve been curious about how things work. I remember taking apart old gadgets and toys just to see what was inside and how they operated. I would spend hours exploring the different parts and trying to put them back together. This curiosity has only grown, and I love the idea that with a STEM education, I can learn how to create and innovate in ways that can make a difference. STEM fields are everywhere in our daily lives. They help us understand our world better, find new ways to help people, and even make our environment cleaner. For example, I am fascinated by how engineers design bridges and buildings that are safe and strong, ensuring that they can withstand storms and earthquakes. I also admire scientists who study diseases to find better treatments and vaccines, especially after seeing how important this work was during the recent pandemic. Learning about biology and chemistry makes me excited to contribute to discoveries that can improve health and quality of life for everyone. One of the things I enjoy most about STEM is the opportunity to work on projects with my classmates. Collaborating in teams allows us to brainstorm ideas and come up with solutions together. I love hearing different perspectives and combining our unique strengths to create something amazing. In my science class, we recently did a project on renewable energy, and it was thrilling to see how we could design a model of a wind turbine. Each group member had a role, whether it was researching, building, or presenting, and it was a great way to learn while having fun. Hands-on experiments in science class are another reason I’m drawn to STEM. I enjoy the excitement of conducting experiments and seeing theories in action. For instance, when we did a chemistry experiment with vinegar and baking soda, I was amazed by the reaction we created. It felt like being a real scientist! These kinds of activities make learning exciting and help me understand complex concepts in a way that textbooks alone cannot. Ultimately, I want to use my education in STEM to make a positive impact on the world. I dream of working in fields like environmental science or biomedical engineering, where I can focus on finding solutions to critical issues like climate change or healthcare challenges. Whether it’s developing new ways to generate clean energy or creating innovative medical devices to help people, I believe that studying STEM will give me the skills I need to turn my ideas into reality. I am excited about the future and the possibilities that come with a STEM education. I want to be part of a generation that uses knowledge and creativity to build a better world for everyone!

Life has a way of teaching us lessons in unexpected ways. For me, that lesson came through watching my grandmother battle cancer. I was young when she was diagnosed, but even then, I could feel the weight of what she was going through. Cancer wasn’t just attacking her body; it was testing her spirit and reshaping my understanding of strength, resilience, and compassion. I vividly remember the day we received the diagnosis. It felt surreal, as if time had stopped. I watched my grandmother, who had always been a pillar of strength in our family, suddenly become vulnerable. The shock of her diagnosis rippled through our family, and I felt a deep sense of helplessness. In the weeks and months that followed, I learned what it meant to support someone through a battle that felt insurmountable. Sitting with her during treatments, I saw firsthand the toll that cancer took on her body and spirit. Yet, even in her darkest moments, her warmth and resilience shone through. She would tell stories that made us laugh, share her dreams, and remind us of the importance of cherishing every moment. I admired her courage and her ability to find joy amidst the struggle. The nurses who cared for her became my role models. They weren’t just administering medicine; they were bringing comfort, hope, and dignity to a fight that often felt overwhelming. I saw how much a kind word, a gentle hand, or a reassuring smile could mean to someone in pain. Their compassion inspired me and planted a seed in my heart. I wanted to be that person for someone else. Witnessing my grandmother’s journey made me realize how precious life is and how significant the impact of healthcare professionals can be on their patients and families. I became acutely aware of the emotional toll that illness takes on loved ones and the role that nurses play in providing support and comfort. This realization led me to pursue nursing, not just as a career, but as a calling. I want to be on the frontlines, helping families navigate the hardest moments of their lives with the same compassion I witnessed firsthand. As I continued my education, I sought out opportunities to volunteer and gain experience in healthcare settings. Each experience reinforced my commitment to becoming a nurse. I volunteered at local hospitals and community clinics, where I saw the profound difference that compassionate care can make. I learned the importance of listening to patients, understanding their fears, and advocating for their needs. Every moment spent in these environments confirmed my desire to be a nurse, and I embraced the challenges that came with pursuing this path. Although cancer took my grandmother away, it also gave me a purpose. It shaped the way I see the world, the way I value human connection, and the way I approach my future. I am determined to honor her memory by dedicating my life to helping others, one patient at a time. I want to be the voice of hope for those who feel lost, the comforting presence during difficult times, and the advocate for those who cannot speak for themselves. With every patient I care for, I will carry the spirit of resilience and the lessons learned from this experience about love and the power of compassion.

Marcus Garvey was a powerful and influential leader who made a lasting impact on Black history. Born in Jamaica in 1887, Garvey dedicated his life to promoting Black pride, unity, and economic independence. His work and ideas continue to inspire people around the world, especially during Black History Month. Garvey founded the Universal Negro Improvement Association (UNIA) in 1914, with the goal of uniting Black people globally and promoting their rights and freedoms. The UNIA quickly grew into one of the largest and most influential Black organizations of its time. Garvey believed that Black people should be proud of their heritage and work together to build strong, self-sufficient communities. He encouraged people to support Black-owned businesses and to take pride in their cultural identity. One of Garvey’s most ambitious projects was the creation of the Black Star Line, a shipping company designed to connect people of African descent around the world. The Black Star Line aimed to facilitate trade and travel between Africa, the Caribbean, and the Americas, fostering economic independence and strengthening ties among Black communities. Although the company faced many challenges and ultimately failed, it remains a symbol of Garvey’s vision and determination. Garvey’s belief in the power and potential of Black people was one of his most inspiring qualities. He often spoke about the importance of self-reliance and self-respect, urging Black people to strive for success and greatness. His famous quote, “Up, you mighty race, accomplish what you will,” is a powerful reminder of the potential within each individual and the importance of collective effort. Garvey faced significant opposition from both white supremacists and other Black leaders, who sometimes disagreed with his methods and ideas. Despite these challenges, he remained steadfast in his beliefs and continued to advocate for the empowerment of Black people. His unwavering commitment to his cause earned him both admiration and criticism, but his legacy endures as a testament to his vision and leadership. Today, Garvey’s ideas continue to influence and inspire Black leaders and movements around the world. His emphasis on pride, unity, and economic independence resonates with those who seek to create positive change in their communities. Marcus Garvey’s life and work remind us of the importance of self-determination and the power of collective action. As we celebrate Black History Month, we honor Garvey’s contributions and draw inspiration from his enduring legacy, striving to build a better, more just future for all.

My main goal for my medical career is to become a registered nurse and work in a hospital setting. I am particularly interested in specializing in pediatric nursing because I have always loved working with children and want to help them through their health challenges. After gaining experience as a registered nurse, I plan to further my education and become a nurse practitioner. This advanced role will give me the ability to diagnose illnesses and prescribe treatments, allowing me to have an even greater impact on my patients' lives. Another important goal for me is to focus on patient education and preventative care. Growing up in Jamaica and seeing the health challenges faced by my community, I understand how crucial it is to educate people about their health. By teaching patients about their conditions and how to prevent diseases, we can improve health outcomes and lessen the strain on the healthcare system. I want to be involved in community health initiatives, such as organizing health fairs and workshops, to spread awareness and promote healthier lifestyles. Increasing racial diversity in healthcare is incredibly important, especially to me as a Black Jamaican who moved to America six years ago. One reason is that it improves the quality of care for patients from diverse backgrounds. When healthcare providers understand the cultural and linguistic needs of their patients, communication is clearer, trust is built, and patients feel more comfortable. This leads to better health outcomes because patients are more likely to follow medical advice when they feel understood and respected. Racial diversity in healthcare also helps address health disparities that affect minority communities. As a Black individual, I am aware of the barriers that people of color often face in accessing healthcare, such as discrimination and lack of understanding from providers. Having more healthcare professionals who share similar backgrounds can help bridge this gap and ensure that all patients receive equitable care. Moreover, a diverse healthcare workforce brings different perspectives and ideas, which can lead to better problem-solving and innovation in healthcare. When people from various backgrounds work together, they can come up with more effective solutions to complex health issues, benefiting everyone. Lastly, seeing healthcare providers who look like me and come from similar backgrounds can be inspiring for young people. It shows them that they too can pursue careers in healthcare and make a difference in their communities. This creates a positive cycle where diversity in the healthcare workforce continues to grow and strengthen. My goals for my medical career are to become a pediatric nurse, advance to a nurse practitioner, and focus on patient education and preventative care. Increasing racial diversity in healthcare is vital for improving patient care, addressing health disparities, fostering innovation, and inspiring the next generation. As a Black Jamaican, I am committed to contributing to this important change.

From a young age, I have been drawn to the world of healthcare, inspired by my mother, a dedicated nurse who has served our community for over two decades. Watching her compassionately care for patients, even after grueling 12-hour shifts, left a profound impact on me. It wasn't just her skill and knowledge that I admired, but her ability to comfort those in pain, offering them hope and reassurance in their darkest hours. Her unwavering dedication to her patients and her ability to balance her professional and personal life demonstrated the true essence of nursing and inspired me to follow in her footsteps. One particular experience solidified my decision to pursue nursing. When I was 15, my grandmother was diagnosed with cancer. During her treatment, I spent countless hours in the hospital, observing the nurses who attended to her with unwavering dedication. They not only managed her medical needs but also provided emotional support to our family, helping us navigate the complexities of her illness. Their empathy and professionalism left a lasting impression on me. I saw firsthand the critical role nurses play in patient care and how their presence can significantly impact the healing process. The comfort and care they provided to my grandmother during her final days were invaluable and further fueled my passion for nursing. Additionally, volunteering at a local nursing home during high school deepened my passion for nursing. I assisted with daily activities and formed meaningful connections with the residents. One resident, Mrs. Thompson, shared stories of her youth and expressed her gratitude for the companionship I provided. This experience taught me the importance of empathy and the significant impact a nurse can have on a patient's emotional well-being. I realized that nursing is not just about medical knowledge and technical skills but also about building relationships and providing holistic care. This experience reinforced my belief that nursing is the perfect career for me, allowing me to combine my passion for science with my desire to help others. Throughout my education, I have actively sought opportunities to gain experience in the healthcare field. I participated in a health sciences program at my high school, where I learned about various medical professions and gained hands-on experience through internships at local hospitals. These experiences provided me with a solid foundation in medical knowledge and patient care and confirmed my commitment to pursuing a career in nursing. I have also taken part in community health initiatives, such as organizing health fairs and conducting wellness workshops, to promote health awareness and education in my community. I am driven by a desire to make a difference in people's lives, just as those nurses did for my grandmother and Mrs. Thompson. I believe nursing is not just a profession but a calling—one that requires resilience, compassion, and a commitment to lifelong learning. Despite the challenges of long hours and high-stress situations, I am determined to pursue this path and contribute to the healthcare field. My goal is to become a registered nurse and work in a hospital setting, where I can provide high-quality care to patients and support their families through challenging times. I am excited about the opportunity to continue my education and training in nursing, and I am committed to making a positive impact in the lives of those I serve.

I remember watching my grandma deal with her chronic disease as I was growing up. Doctor visits, medication changes, and surprise hospitalizations were just a regular part of life for our family. Despite all of the struggles that came along with dealing with a chronic condition, there is one form of technology in healthcare that has always inspired me: telemedicine. I remember the day my grandma video called her doctor for the first time. It was such a huge deal. No more tiring trips to the doctor’s office for her, she could now receive care while staying in the comfort of her home. Telemedicine was able to not only save her time and energy but also increase her overall quality of life. Her doctor could check up on her more often and address any issues immediately, avoiding any unnecessary hospitalizations and complications. The part that impressed me the most about telemedicine was its ability to help those who live in rural areas or are immobile receive proper care. Telemedicine opens the doors to quality healthcare by placing top medical experts and resources at your finger tips no matter where you live. This factor of inclusivity is one that I personally feel very passionate about, because I believe all individuals should have equal access to quality healthcare no matter where they live or their economic status. Telemedicine also helps increase overall healthcare efficiency and lower healthcare costs by cutting down on unnecessary in-person doctor visits. Remote video visits and monitoring can be conducted numerous amounts of times without the need to travel to a medical facility. This is especially helpful for patients with chronic diseases that need consistent check ups and medication changes. Telemedicine can also help lighten the load on our overloaded healthcare system by decreasing the amount of people in waiting rooms and crowded hospitals, especially during this COVID-19 pandemic. As we look into the future, I’m excited to see how technological advances will continue to shape telemedicine.