Thinking back on what inspired me to follow this path is my love for animals. It was my dream at the age of 3 to become a veterinarian, and what I find to be unique about myself is that animals warm-up to me at first glance. My mom is the one who has impacted my life mostly because she has always lifted me and supported me in every way. She has always been amazed by the connection I have with animals. Recently I rescued two beautiful stray kittens who needed a home. They instantly grew attached to me and trusted me. I noticed people in my area trying to get them out of hiding and the cats just wouldn't budge. Then I stepped in and instantly they came right into my arms. I called my mom and she helped me take them home. I kept them for as long as I could until my younger brother fell ill due to his allergies. I contacted some good people I know that were able to provide a forever home for them. It was sad at first, but I know they are being cared for. My main goal is to improve the health and wellbeing of animals. However, I understand the importance of my role in the local community. There are several ways in which I can make a meaningful impact as a veterinarian. Animal shelters are often overwhelmed with abandoned and stray animals. These animals require medical attention and care, which is not always provided by these shelters. As a veterinarian, I can offer my services at these events by examining and treating these animals. This will help improve the health of these animals and make them more adoptable. In addition, I will work with these shelters to provide free or low-cost veterinary care to animals in need. Many pet owners are not aware of the proper care that their pets require, especially when it comes to nutrition and exercise. I can organize community events and seminars that focus on educating pet owners on proper pet care. Additionally, I will provide resources such as informative brochures and videos, which pet owners can access on social media platforms. Firstly, I would collaborate with other veterinarians and animal welfare organizations in the community to rescue animals during natural disasters or emergencies. During natural disasters, animals are at high risk of drowning or starving. As a veterinarian, I will work with rescue teams to save these animals by providing medical attention and shelter. I will also use my social media platforms to organize rescue efforts and ask for donations from the public for providing medical treatment and care. As a veterinarian, I will provide my services to farmers who own livestock. Most farmers do not have easy access to veterinary care. As a result, livestock diseases can go undetected or untreated, leading to loss of livestock and financial hardship for the farmer. I will offer affordable veterinary care to farmers and livestock owners, and also provide education about preventative measures to keep their animals healthy. Lastly, I will volunteer my services to community animal rescue organizations. Animal rescue organizations are non-profit groups that are dedicated to rescuing animals and providing them with care and shelter. However, these organizations are often underfunded and understaffed. I can volunteer my time and expertise to provide medical treatment to rescued animals. In conclusion, as a veterinarian, I believe that I can make a positive impact in my local community by providing accessible and affordable veterinary services to pet owners and educating the public on proper pet care.

Caring for animals is my passion, I will do the best I can and make a positive impact on the world through what I will learn in my experience as a licensed veterinarian. My inspiration for choosing a veterinary career is due to an experience I had when I was much younger. I was about five or six when I was given a cat that I loved so much. He suddenly stopped eating and being his playful self. However, we did not know what was wrong. Sadly, he became very ill and passed away. As a result, I suffered a great deal and that's when I began reading about the different illnesses of animals. I wanted to know what was wrong with my cat and how I could have possibly cured him. My goal is to obtain my Bachelor's degree in veterinary technology at Mercy College. I will then transfer to Cornell University where I will study and pursue my veterinary career. As a veterinarian, my main focus will be to improve the health and well-being of animals. However, I understand the importance of my role in the local community. There are several ways in which I can make a meaningful impact as a veterinarian in my community. Firstly, I would actively participate in local animal adoption events. Animal shelters are often overwhelmed with abandoned and stray animals. These animals require medical attention and care, which is not always provided by these shelters. I can offer my services at these events by examining and treating these animals. This will help improve their health and make them more adoptable. In addition, I will work with these shelters to provide free or low-cost veterinary care to animals in need. Secondly, I would educate the public on proper pet care. Many pet owners are not aware of the proper care that their pets require, especially when it comes to nutrition and exercise. I can organize community events and seminars that focus on educating pet owners on the proper care for their pets. Additionally, I will provide resources such as informative brochures and videos, which pet owners can access on social media platforms. Thirdly, I would collaborate with other veterinarians and animal welfare organizations in the community to rescue animals during natural disasters or emergencies. During natural disasters, animals are at high risk of drowning or starving. As a veterinarian, I will work with rescue teams to save these animals by providing the necessary medical attention that they may need. Fourthly, I will provide my services to farmers who own livestock. Most farmers do not have easy access to veterinary care. As a result, livestock diseases can go undetected or untreated, leading to the loss of livestock and financial hardship for the farmer. I will offer affordable veterinary care to farmers and livestock owners, and also provide education about preventative measures to keep their animals healthy. Lastly, I will volunteer my services to community animal rescue organizations. These organizations are often underfunded and understaffed. I can volunteer my time and expertise to provide medical treatment to rescued animals. This will help these organizations focus on rescuing more animals and providing them with the necessary care and food. In conclusion, as a veterinarian, I believe that by working together and making a collective effort, we can make a significant difference in the lives of many animals and create a more compassionate and responsible community.

I was only three years old when I knew that I wanted to be a veterinarian. I flew out of my room, ran over to my mother, and told her, "I want to be a doctor but for animals!" She replied in an amazed yet reassuring tone, "you mean a vet"? After I heard those words. I jumped up and down with excitement exclaiming, “that was the career I wanted!” This short yet meaningful interaction filled me with determination to pursue my dream of being a veterinarian. Soon after, I received a pet kitten named Star. I bonded with Star by feeding, playing, and sleeping with him. We were inseparable. We did everything together except go to school, and that's when I was hit with reality. Have you ever known something was wrong but did not know how to fix it? Two years after meeting Star, he became sick. I did my best to take care of him. But he refused to drink or eat anything for days. Ultimately, Star died from dehydration. It was at that moment that I vowed to learn how to care for animals. I wanted to learn how to diagnose the problem, so I could fix it. I knew I was destined to become a veterinarian. This tragedy inspired me to research Star's cause of death. I also researched how to treat injuries and illnesses in animals. I spent my free time watching Animal Planet and reading countless zoology books at the library. On the weekends, I preferred studying zoology rather than playing outside with the kids in my neighborhood. I just wanted to help people and their pets so that they would not have to experience the grief of losing a pet. My determination to be a veterinarian has not wavered. I recently rescued two kittens whom I named, Yuki and Kage. They had a history of abuse and were distrustful. To earn their trust, I gave them treats and showed them lots of affection. I recall gently washing and brushing the mouse trap glue off their fur. I learned how to properly feed, and care for them. As with Star, I developed a close bond with Yuki and Kage. Soon after they responded when I called and began eating out of the palm of my hand and doing tricks. They would even look for me when I wasn’t home. Sadly, this was only temporary because my younger brother, who is allergic to cats, became seriously ill. After his hospitalization, I had to make the hardest decision in my life. I had to take them back to a shelter for the sake of my brother. Caring for those kittens for the short time I had with them, was the best three weeks of my life. It only solidified my decision of wanting to become a veterinarian. Recently our neighbor came to us about a cat that was lost and clinging to the window ledge in the hallway window. My parents tried to get her off the ledge, but she was too frightened to move. No one could get this cat to safety. So, I used one of my tee shirts and gently picked her up to calm her down. Everyone was amazed at how she just let me pick her up without a fight. I held her tightly and talked to her softly. My mom brought her some food and a saucer of milk. We made some calls to find her a loving home and I still get to see her from time to time. It’s moments like these that make me so happy.

I was only three years old when I knew that I wanted to be a veterinarian. Soon after, I received a pet kitten named Star. I bonded with Star by feeding, playing, and sleeping with him. We were inseparable. We did everything together except go to school, and that's when I was hit with reality. Have you ever known something was wrong but did not know how to fix it? Two years after meeting Star, he became sick. I did my best to take care of him. But he refused to drink or eat anything for days. Ultimately, Star died from dehydration. It was at that moment that I vowed to learn how to care for animals. I wanted to learn how to diagnose the problem, so I could fix it. I knew I was destined to become a veterinarian. This tragedy inspired me to research Star's cause of death. I also researched how to treat injuries and illnesses in animals. I spent my free time watching Animal Planet and reading countless zoology books at the library. I preferred studying zoology rather than playing outside. I just wanted to help people and their pets so that they would not have to experience the grief of losing a pet. My determination to be a veterinarian has not wavered. I recently rescued two kittens whom I lovingly named, Yuki and Kage. They had a history of abuse and were distrustful. To earn their trust, I gave them treats and showed them lots of affection. I recall gently washing the feces and brushing the mouse trap glue off their fur. I learned how to properly feed, bathe and care for them. As with Star, I developed a close bond with Yuki and Kage. Soon after they responded when I called and began eating out of the palm of my hand and doing tricks. They would even look for me when I wasn’t home. Sadly, this was only temporary because my younger brother, who is allergic to cats, became seriously ill. After his hospitalization, I had to make the hardest decision in my life. I had to take them back to a shelter for the sake of my brother. Caring for those kittens for the short time I had with them, was the best three weeks of my life. It only solidified my decision of wanting to become a veterinarian. Now, wherever I go and encounter animals I feel a connection. Just recently our neighbor came to us about a cat that was lost and clinging to the window ledge in the hallway window. My parents tried to get her off the ledge, but she was too frightened to move. No one could get this cat to safety. So, I used one of my tee shirts and gently picked her up to calm her down. Everyone was amazed at how she just let me pick her up without a fight. I held her tightly and talked to her softly. My mom brought her some food and a saucer of milk. We made some calls to find her a loving home and I still get to see her from time to time. It’s moments like these that make me so happy. My goal in life has been the same since day one, to help animals that are lost, sick or have experienced neglect and abuse. Like the three-year-old I was, sitting on the living room floor watching my favorite television show called, "The Wild Kratts," I still get excited when I see animals and it fills my heart with so much joy.

My mom has supported me in every way, especially in reaching my educational goals. She is always assisting me in my research to find the best possible options. Even as a single parent who works full-time and cares for my younger brother and me, she always puts in the time for me to guide me along the way. I am the first one in my family to attend college and will be the first to graduate. I have struggled very hard to get to this point. As a kid, I received a pet kitten named Star. I bonded with Star by feeding, playing, and sleeping with him. We were inseparable. We did everything together except go to school, and that's when I was hit with reality. Two years after meeting Star, he became sick. I did my best to take care of him. But he refused to drink or eat anything for days. Ultimately, Star died from dehydration. At that moment, I vowed to learn how to care for animals. I wanted to know how to diagnose the problem to fix it. This tragedy inspired me to research Star's cause of death. I studied how to treat injuries and illnesses in animals. I spent my free time watching Animal Planet and reading countless zoology books at the library. I preferred studying zoology rather than playing outside. I just wanted to help people and their pets so they would not experience the grief of losing a pet. I recently rescued two kittens. They had a history of abuse and were distrustful. To earn their trust, I gave them treats and showed them lots of affection. I recall gently washing the feces and brushing the mouse trap glue off their fur. I learned how to feed, bathe and care for them. I developed a close bond with them. They responded when I called and began eating out of the palm of my hand and doing tricks. Sadly, this was only temporary because my younger brother, allergic to cats, became seriously ill. After his hospitalization, I had to make the hardest decision in my life. I had to take them back to a shelter for the sake of my brother. Caring for those kittens for the short time I had with them was the best three weeks of my life. It only solidified my decision of wanting to become a veterinarian. Now, wherever I go and encounter animals, I feel a connection. Just recently, our neighbor came to us about a lost cat clinging to the window ledge in the hallway window. My parents tried to get her off the ledge, but she was too frightened to move. No one could get this cat to safety. So, I used one of my tee shirts and gently picked her up to calm her down. Everyone was amazed at how she let me pick her up without a fight. I held her tightly and talked to her softly. My mom brought her some food and a saucer of milk. We made some calls to find her a loving home, and I still see her occasionally. It's moments like these that make me so happy. My goal in life has been the same since day one, to help animals that are lost, sick, or have experienced neglect and abuse. Like the three-year-old I was, sitting on the living room floor watching my favorite television show, "The Wild Kratts," I still get excited when I see animals, filling my heart with so much joy.

My mom has supported me in every way, especially in reaching my educational goals. She is always assisting me in my research to find the best possible options. Even as a single parent who works full-time and cares for my younger brother and me, she always puts in the time for me to guide me along the way. I am the first one in my family to attend college and will be the first to graduate. I have struggled very hard to get to this point. As a kid, I received a pet kitten named Star. I bonded with Star by feeding, playing, and sleeping with him. We were inseparable. We did everything together except go to school, and that's when I was hit with reality. Two years after meeting Star, he became sick. I did my best to take care of him. But he refused to drink or eat anything for days. Ultimately, Star died from dehydration. At that moment, I vowed to learn how to care for animals. I wanted to know how to diagnose the problem to fix it. This tragedy inspired me to research Star's cause of death. I studied how to treat injuries and illnesses in animals. I spent my free time watching Animal Planet and reading countless zoology books at the library. I preferred studying zoology rather than playing outside. I just wanted to help people and their pets so they would not experience the grief of losing a pet. I recently rescued two kittens. They had a history of abuse and were distrustful. To earn their trust, I gave them treats and showed them lots of affection. I recall gently washing the feces and brushing the mouse trap glue off their fur. I learned how to feed, bathe and care for them. I developed a close bond with them. They responded when I called and began eating out of the palm of my hand and doing tricks. Sadly, this was only temporary because my younger brother, allergic to cats, became seriously ill. After his hospitalization, I had to make the hardest decision in my life. I had to take them back to a shelter for the sake of my brother. Caring for those kittens for the short time I had with them was the best three weeks of my life. It only solidified my decision of wanting to become a veterinarian. Now, wherever I go and encounter animals, I feel a connection. Just recently, our neighbor came to us about a lost cat clinging to the window ledge in the hallway window. My parents tried to get her off the ledge, but she was too frightened to move. No one could get this cat to safety. So, I used one of my tee shirts and gently picked her up to calm her down. Everyone was amazed at how she let me pick her up without a fight. I held her tightly and talked to her softly. My mom brought her some food and a saucer of milk. We made some calls to find her a loving home, and I still see her occasionally. It's moments like these that make me so happy. My goal in life has been the same since day one, to help animals that are lost, sick, or have experienced neglect and abuse. Like the three-year-old I was, sitting on the living room floor watching my favorite television show, "The Wild Kratts," I still get excited when I see animals, filling my heart with so much joy.

My mom has supported me in every way, especially in reaching my educational goals. She is always assisting me in my research to find the best possible options. Even as a single parent who works full-time and cares for my younger brother and me, she always puts in the time for me to guide me along the way. I am the first one in my family to attend college and will be the first to graduate. I have struggled very hard to get to this point. As a kid, I received a pet kitten named Star. I bonded with Star by feeding, playing, and sleeping with him. We were inseparable. We did everything together except go to school, and that's when I was hit with reality. Two years after meeting Star, he became sick. I did my best to take care of him. But he refused to drink or eat anything for days. Ultimately, Star died from dehydration. At that moment, I vowed to learn how to care for animals. I wanted to know how to diagnose the problem to fix it. This tragedy inspired me to research Star's cause of death. I studied how to treat injuries and illnesses in animals. I spent my free time watching Animal Planet and reading countless zoology books at the library. I preferred studying zoology rather than playing outside. I just wanted to help people and their pets so they would not experience the grief of losing a pet. I recently rescued two kittens. They had a history of abuse and were distrustful. To earn their trust, I gave them treats and showed them lots of affection. I recall gently washing the feces and brushing the mouse trap glue off their fur. I learned how to feed, bathe and care for them. I developed a close bond with them. They responded when I called and began eating out of the palm of my hand and doing tricks. Sadly, this was only temporary because my younger brother, allergic to cats, became seriously ill. After his hospitalization, I had to make the hardest decision in my life. I had to take them back to a shelter for the sake of my brother. Caring for those kittens for the short time I had with them was the best three weeks of my life. It only solidified my decision of wanting to become a veterinarian. Now, wherever I go and encounter animals, I feel a connection. Just recently, our neighbor came to us about a lost cat clinging to the window ledge in the hallway window. My parents tried to get her off the ledge, but she was too frightened to move. No one could get this cat to safety. So, I used one of my tee shirts and gently picked her up to calm her down. Everyone was amazed at how she let me pick her up without a fight. I held her tightly and talked to her softly. My mom brought her some food and a saucer of milk. We made some calls to find her a loving home, and I still see her occasionally. It's moments like these that make me so happy. My goal in life has been the same since day one, to help animals that are lost, sick, or have experienced neglect and abuse. Like the three-year-old I was, sitting on the living room floor watching my favorite television show, "The Wild Kratts," I still get excited when I see animals, filling my heart with so much joy.

My mom has supported me in every way, especially in reaching my educational goals. She is always assisting me in my research to find the best possible options. Even as a single parent who works full-time and cares for my younger brother and me, she always puts in the time for me to guide me along the way. I am the first one in my family to attend college and will be the first to graduate. I have struggled very hard to get to this point. As a kid, I received a pet kitten named Star. I bonded with Star by feeding, playing, and sleeping with him. We were inseparable. We did everything together except go to school, and that's when I was hit with reality. Two years after meeting Star, he became sick. I did my best to take care of him. But he refused to drink or eat anything for days. Ultimately, Star died from dehydration. At that moment, I vowed to learn how to care for animals. I wanted to know how to diagnose the problem to fix it. This tragedy inspired me to research Star's cause of death. I studied how to treat injuries and illnesses in animals. I spent my free time watching Animal Planet and reading countless zoology books at the library. I preferred studying zoology rather than playing outside. I just wanted to help people and their pets so they would not experience the grief of losing a pet. I recently rescued two kittens. They had a history of abuse and were distrustful. To earn their trust, I gave them treats and showed them lots of affection. I recall gently washing the feces and brushing the mouse trap glue off their fur. I learned how to feed, bathe and care for them. I developed a close bond with them. They responded when I called and began eating out of the palm of my hand and doing tricks. Sadly, this was only temporary because my younger brother, allergic to cats, became seriously ill. After his hospitalization, I had to make the hardest decision in my life. I had to take them back to a shelter for the sake of my brother. Caring for those kittens for the short time I had with them was the best three weeks of my life. It only solidified my decision of wanting to become a veterinarian. Now, wherever I go and encounter animals, I feel a connection. Just recently, our neighbor came to us about a lost cat clinging to the window ledge in the hallway window. My parents tried to get her off the ledge, but she was too frightened to move. No one could get this cat to safety. So, I used one of my tee shirts and gently picked her up to calm her down. Everyone was amazed at how she let me pick her up without a fight. I held her tightly and talked to her softly. My mom brought her some food and a saucer of milk. We made some calls to find her a loving home, and I still see her occasionally. It's moments like these that make me so happy. My goal in life has been the same since day one, to help animals that are lost, sick, or have experienced neglect and abuse. Like the three-year-old I was, sitting on the living room floor watching my favorite television show, "The Wild Kratts," I still get excited when I see animals, filling my heart with so much joy.

My mom has supported me in every way, especially in reaching my educational goals. She is always assisting me in my research to find the best possible options. Even as a single parent who works full-time and cares for my younger brother and me, she always puts in the time for me to guide me along the way. I am the first one in my family to attend college and will be the first to graduate. I have struggled very hard to get to this point. As a kid, I received a pet kitten named Star. I bonded with Star by feeding, playing, and sleeping with him. We were inseparable. We did everything together except go to school, and that's when I was hit with reality. Two years after meeting Star, he became sick. I did my best to take care of him. But he refused to drink or eat anything for days. Ultimately, Star died from dehydration. At that moment, I vowed to learn how to care for animals. I wanted to know how to diagnose the problem to fix it. This tragedy inspired me to research Star's cause of death. I studied how to treat injuries and illnesses in animals. I spent my free time watching Animal Planet and reading countless zoology books at the library. I preferred studying zoology rather than playing outside. I just wanted to help people and their pets so they would not experience the grief of losing a pet. I recently rescued two kittens. They had a history of abuse and were distrustful. To earn their trust, I gave them treats and showed them lots of affection. I recall gently washing the feces and brushing the mouse trap glue off their fur. I learned how to feed, bathe and care for them. I developed a close bond with them. They responded when I called and began eating out of the palm of my hand and doing tricks. Sadly, this was only temporary because my younger brother, allergic to cats, became seriously ill. After his hospitalization, I had to make the hardest decision in my life. I had to take them back to a shelter for the sake of my brother. Caring for those kittens for the short time I had with them was the best three weeks of my life. It only solidified my decision of wanting to become a veterinarian. Now, wherever I go and encounter animals, I feel a connection. Just recently, our neighbor came to us about a lost cat clinging to the window ledge in the hallway window. My parents tried to get her off the ledge, but she was too frightened to move. No one could get this cat to safety. So, I used one of my tee shirts and gently picked her up to calm her down. Everyone was amazed at how she let me pick her up without a fight. I held her tightly and talked to her softly. My mom brought her some food and a saucer of milk. We made some calls to find her a loving home, and I still see her occasionally. It's moments like these that make me so happy. My goal in life has been the same since day one, to help animals that are lost, sick, or have experienced neglect and abuse. Like the three-year-old I was, sitting on the living room floor watching my favorite television show, "The Wild Kratts," I still get excited when I see animals, filling my heart with so much joy.

My mom has supported me in every way, especially in reaching my educational goals. She is always assisting me in my research to find the best possible options. Even as a single parent who works full-time and cares for my younger brother and me, she always puts in the time for me to guide me along the way. I am the first one in my family to attend college and will be the first to graduate. I have struggled very hard to get to this point. As a kid, I received a pet kitten named Star. I bonded with Star by feeding, playing, and sleeping with him. We were inseparable. We did everything together except go to school, and that's when I was hit with reality. Two years after meeting Star, he became sick. I did my best to take care of him. But he refused to drink or eat anything for days. Ultimately, Star died from dehydration. At that moment, I vowed to learn how to care for animals. I wanted to know how to diagnose the problem to fix it. This tragedy inspired me to research Star's cause of death. I studied how to treat injuries and illnesses in animals. I spent my free time watching Animal Planet and reading countless zoology books at the library. I preferred studying zoology rather than playing outside. I just wanted to help people and their pets so they would not experience the grief of losing a pet. I recently rescued two kittens. They had a history of abuse and were distrustful. To earn their trust, I gave them treats and showed them lots of affection. I recall gently washing the feces and brushing the mouse trap glue off their fur. I learned how to feed, bathe and care for them. I developed a close bond with them. They responded when I called and began eating out of the palm of my hand and doing tricks. Sadly, this was only temporary because my younger brother, allergic to cats, became seriously ill. After his hospitalization, I had to make the hardest decision in my life. I had to take them back to a shelter for the sake of my brother. Caring for those kittens for the short time I had with them was the best three weeks of my life. It only solidified my decision of wanting to become a veterinarian. Now, wherever I go and encounter animals, I feel a connection. Just recently, our neighbor came to us about a lost cat clinging to the window ledge in the hallway window. My parents tried to get her off the ledge, but she was too frightened to move. No one could get this cat to safety. So, I used one of my tee shirts and gently picked her up to calm her down. Everyone was amazed at how she let me pick her up without a fight. I held her tightly and talked to her softly. My mom brought her some food and a saucer of milk. We made some calls to find her a loving home, and I still see her occasionally. It's moments like these that make me so happy. My goal in life has been the same since day one, to help animals that are lost, sick, or have experienced neglect and abuse. Like the three-year-old I was, sitting on the living room floor watching my favorite television show, "The Wild Kratts," I still get excited when I see animals, filling my heart with so much joy.

My mom has supported me in every way, especially in reaching my educational goals. She is always assisting me in my research to find the best possible options. Even as a single parent who works full-time and cares for my younger brother and me, she always puts in the time for me to guide me along the way. I am the first one in my family to attend college and will be the first to graduate. I have struggled very hard to get to this point. As a kid, I received a pet kitten named Star. I bonded with Star by feeding, playing, and sleeping with him. We were inseparable. We did everything together except go to school, and that's when I was hit with reality. Two years after meeting Star, he became sick. I did my best to take care of him. But he refused to drink or eat anything for days. Ultimately, Star died from dehydration. At that moment, I vowed to learn how to care for animals. I wanted to know how to diagnose the problem to fix it. This tragedy inspired me to research Star's cause of death. I studied how to treat injuries and illnesses in animals. I spent my free time watching Animal Planet and reading countless zoology books at the library. I preferred studying zoology rather than playing outside. I just wanted to help people and their pets so they would not experience the grief of losing a pet. I recently rescued two kittens. They had a history of abuse and were distrustful. To earn their trust, I gave them treats and showed them lots of affection. I recall gently washing the feces and brushing the mouse trap glue off their fur. I learned how to feed, bathe and care for them. I developed a close bond with them. They responded when I called and began eating out of the palm of my hand and doing tricks. Sadly, this was only temporary because my younger brother, allergic to cats, became seriously ill. After his hospitalization, I had to make the hardest decision in my life. I had to take them back to a shelter for the sake of my brother. Caring for those kittens for the short time I had with them was the best three weeks of my life. It only solidified my decision of wanting to become a veterinarian. Now, wherever I go and encounter animals, I feel a connection. Just recently, our neighbor came to us about a lost cat clinging to the window ledge in the hallway window. My parents tried to get her off the ledge, but she was too frightened to move. No one could get this cat to safety. So, I used one of my tee shirts and gently picked her up to calm her down. Everyone was amazed at how she let me pick her up without a fight. I held her tightly and talked to her softly. My mom brought her some food and a saucer of milk. We made some calls to find her a loving home, and I still see her occasionally. It's moments like these that make me so happy. My goal in life has been the same since day one, to help animals that are lost, sick, or have experienced neglect and abuse. Like the three-year-old I was, sitting on the living room floor watching my favorite television show, "The Wild Kratts," I still get excited when I see animals, filling my heart with so much joy.

My mom has supported me in every way, especially in reaching my educational goals. She is always assisting me in my research to find the best possible options. Even as a single parent who works full-time and cares for my younger brother and me, she always puts in the time for me to guide me along the way. I am the first one in my family to attend college and will be the first to graduate. I have struggled very hard to get to this point. As a kid, I received a pet kitten named Star. I bonded with Star by feeding, playing, and sleeping with him. We were inseparable. We did everything together except go to school, and that's when I was hit with reality. Two years after meeting Star, he became sick. I did my best to take care of him. But he refused to drink or eat anything for days. Ultimately, Star died from dehydration. At that moment, I vowed to learn how to care for animals. I wanted to know how to diagnose the problem to fix it. This tragedy inspired me to research Star's cause of death. I studied how to treat injuries and illnesses in animals. I spent my free time watching Animal Planet and reading countless zoology books at the library. I preferred studying zoology rather than playing outside. I just wanted to help people and their pets so they would not experience the grief of losing a pet. I recently rescued two kittens. They had a history of abuse and were distrustful. To earn their trust, I gave them treats and showed them lots of affection. I recall gently washing the feces and brushing the mouse trap glue off their fur. I learned how to feed, bathe and care for them. I developed a close bond with them. They responded when I called and began eating out of the palm of my hand and doing tricks. Sadly, this was only temporary because my younger brother, allergic to cats, became seriously ill. After his hospitalization, I had to make the hardest decision in my life. I had to take them back to a shelter for the sake of my brother. Caring for those kittens for the short time I had with them was the best three weeks of my life. It only solidified my decision of wanting to become a veterinarian. Now, wherever I go and encounter animals, I feel a connection. Just recently, our neighbor came to us about a lost cat clinging to the window ledge in the hallway window. My parents tried to get her off the ledge, but she was too frightened to move. No one could get this cat to safety. So, I used one of my tee shirts and gently picked her up to calm her down. Everyone was amazed at how she let me pick her up without a fight. I held her tightly and talked to her softly. My mom brought her some food and a saucer of milk. We made some calls to find her a loving home, and I still see her occasionally. It's moments like these that make me so happy. My goal in life has been the same since day one, to help animals that are lost, sick, or have experienced neglect and abuse. Like the three-year-old I was, sitting on the living room floor watching my favorite television show, "The Wild Kratts," I still get excited when I see animals, filling my heart with so much joy.

My mom has supported me in every way, especially in reaching my educational goals. She is always assisting me in my research to find the best possible options available to me. Even as a single parent who works full-time and cares for my younger brother and me, she always puts in the time for me to guide me along the way. I am the first one in my family to attend college and will be the first to graduate. I have struggled very hard to get to this point. As a kid, I received a pet kitten named Star. I bonded with Star by feeding, playing, and sleeping with him. We were inseparable. We did everything together except go to school, and that's when I was hit with reality. Two years after meeting Star, he became sick. I did my best to take care of him. But he refused to drink or eat anything for days. Ultimately, Star died from dehydration. At that moment, I vowed to learn how to care for animals. I wanted to learn how to diagnose the problem to fix it. This tragedy inspired me to research Star's cause of death. I studied how to treat injuries and illnesses in animals. I spent my free time watching Animal Planet and reading countless zoology books at the library. I preferred studying zoology rather than playing outside. I just wanted to help people and their pets so they would not have to experience the grief of losing a pet. I recently rescued two kittens. They had a history of abuse and were distrustful. To earn their trust, I gave them treats and showed them lots of affection. I recall gently washing the feces and brushing the mouse trap glue off their fur. I learned how to feed, bathe and care for them. I developed a close bond with them. They responded when I called and began eating out of the palm of my hand and doing tricks. Sadly, this was only temporary because my younger brother, allergic to cats, became seriously ill. After his hospitalization, I had to make the hardest decision in my life. I had to take them back to a shelter for the sake of my brother. Caring for those kittens for the short time I had with them was the best three weeks of my life. It only solidified my decision of wanting to become a veterinarian. Now, wherever I go and encounter animals, I feel a connection. Just recently, our neighbor came to us about a lost cat clinging to the window ledge in the hallway window. My parents tried to get her off the ledge, but she was too frightened to move. No one could get this cat to safety. So, I used one of my tee shirts and gently picked her up to calm her down. Everyone was amazed at how she let me pick her up without a fight. I held her tightly and talked to her softly. My mom brought her some food and a saucer of milk. We made some calls to find her a loving home, and I still see her occasionally. It's moments like these that make me so happy. My goal in life has been the same since day one, to help animals that are lost, sick, or have experienced neglect and abuse. Like the three-year-old I was, sitting on the living room floor watching my favorite television show, "The Wild Kratts," I still get excited when I see animals, filling my heart with so much joy.

I was only three years old when I knew I wanted to be a veterinarian. I flew out of my room, ran over to my mother, and told her, "I want to be a doctor, but for animals!" She replied in an amazed yet reassuring tone, "you mean a vet"? After I heard those words. I jumped up and down with excitement exclaiming, "that was the career I wanted!" This short yet meaningful interaction made me determined to pursue my dream of being a veterinarian. Soon after, I received a pet kitten named Star. I bonded with Star by feeding, playing, and sleeping with him. We were inseparable. We did everything together except go to school, and that's when I was hit with reality. Have you ever known something was wrong but did not know how to fix it? Two years after meeting Star, he became sick. I did my best to take care of him. But he refused to drink or eat anything for days. Ultimately, Star died from dehydration. At that moment, I vowed to learn how to care for animals. I wanted to learn how to diagnose the problem to fix it. I knew I was destined to become a veterinarian. This tragedy inspired me to research Star's cause of death. I also studied how to treat injuries and illnesses in animals. I spent my free time watching Animal Planet and reading countless zoology books at the library. In fact, on the weekends, I preferred studying zoology rather than playing outside with the kids in my neighborhood. Ultimately, I just wanted to help people and their pets so they would not have to experience the grief of losing a pet. My determination to be a veterinarian has not wavered. I recently rescued two kittens whom I lovingly named Yuki and Kage. They had a history of abuse and were distrustful. To earn their trust, I gave them treats and showed them lots of affection. I recall gently washing the feces and brushing the mouse trap glue off their fur. I learned how to feed, bathe and care for them properly. As with Star, I developed a close bond with Yuki and Kage. Soon after, they responded when I called and began eating out of the palm of my hand and doing tricks. They would even look for me when I wasn't home. Sadly, this was only temporary because my younger brother, allergic to cats, became seriously ill. After his hospitalization, I had to make the hardest decision in my life. I had to take them back to a shelter for the sake of my brother. Caring for those kittens for the short time I had with them was the best three weeks of my life. It only solidified my decision of wanting to become a veterinarian. Now, wherever I go and encounter animals, I feel a connection. Just recently, our neighbor came to us about a lost cat clinging to the window ledge in the hallway window. My parents tried to get her off the ledge, but she was too frightened to move. No one could get this cat to safety. So, I used one of my tee shirts and gently picked her up to calm her down. Everyone was amazed at how she let me pick her up without a fight. I held her tightly and talked to her softly. My mom brought her some food and a saucer of milk. We made some calls to find her a loving home, and I still see her occasionally. It's moments like these that make me so happy.

I am a good candidate for this scholarship for several reasons. I am the first one in my family to attend college and will be the first to graduate with a bachelor's degree. I have struggled very hard to get to this point. This scholarship is worth a great deal to me since my mom is still caring for my younger brother and isn't making enough to pay for my tuition as a single mom. So far, I have won an academic scholarship of $ 6000 per semester from Mercy College, where I will attend classes in the Fall of 2023. The major I have chosen is the veterinary technology program, a four-year program. I was only three years old when I knew I wanted to be a veterinarian. I flew out of my room, ran over to my mother, and told her, "I want to be a doctor, but for animals!" She replied in an amazed yet reassuring tone, "you mean a vet"? After I heard those words. I jumped up and down with excitement exclaiming, "that was the career I wanted!" This short yet meaningful interaction made me determined to pursue my dream of being a veterinarian. Soon after, I received a pet kitten named Star. I bonded with Star by feeding, playing, and sleeping with him. We were inseparable. We did everything together except go to school, and that's when I was hit with reality. Have you ever known something was wrong but did not know how to fix it? Two years after meeting Star, he became sick. I did my best to take care of him. But he refused to drink or eat anything for days. Ultimately, Star died from dehydration. At that moment, I vowed to learn how to care for animals. I wanted to learn how to diagnose the problem to fix it. I knew I was destined to become a veterinarian. This tragedy inspired me to research Star's cause of death. I also studied how to treat injuries and illnesses in animals. I spent my free time watching Animal Planet and reading countless zoology books at the library. In fact, on the weekends, I preferred studying zoology rather than playing outside with the kids in my neighborhood. Ultimately, I just wanted to help people and their pets so they would not have to experience the grief of losing a pet. My determination to be a veterinarian has not wavered. I recently rescued two kittens whom I lovingly named Yuki and Kage. They had a history of abuse and were distrustful. To earn their trust, I gave them treats and showed them lots of affection. I recall gently washing the feces and brushing the mouse trap glue off their fur. I learned how to feed, bathe and care for them properly. As with Star, I developed a close bond with Yuki and Kage. Soon after, they responded when I called and began eating out of the palm of my hand and doing tricks. They would even look for me when I wasn't home. Sadly, this was only temporary because my younger brother, allergic to cats, became seriously ill. After his hospitalization, I had to make the hardest decision in my life. I had to take them back to a shelter for the sake of my brother. Caring for those kittens for the short time I had with them was the best three weeks of my life. It only solidified my decision of wanting to become a veterinarian. Now, wherever I go and encounter animals, I feel a connection. Just recently, our neighbor came to us about a lost cat clinging to the window ledge in the hallway window. My parents tried to get her off the ledge, but she was too frightened to move. No one could get this cat to safety. So, I used one of my tee shirts and gently picked her up to calm her down. Everyone was amazed at how she let me pick her up without a fight. I held her tightly and talked to her softly. My mom brought her some food and a saucer of milk. We made some calls to find her a loving home, and I still see her occasionally. It's moments like these that make me so happy. My goal in life has been the same since day one, to help animals that are lost, sick, or have experienced neglect and abuse. Like the three-year-old I was, sitting on the living room floor watching my favorite television show, "The Wild Kratts," I still get excited when I see animals, filling my heart with so much joy.