When people ask me where I’m from, the answer has always been Odisha. My grandparents, my parents, and I were all born there, and though I have spent most of my life in the United States, Odisha has always felt like home. I grew up speaking Odia at home, celebrating Hindu festivals with my family, and learning the traditions that my parents wanted to pass on to me. They never wanted me to feel disconnected from my culture, so they made sure it was part of my everyday life. My Indian background has also shaped the way I think about my future. After a couple years of my brother being diagnosed with Autism, my mom took him back to India for two years so he could receive therapy there. During that time, I was able to see approaches that were very different from what we had experienced in the United States. Doctors here had told my parents that he would never be able to speak, but after receiving therapy in India, he began speaking. Watching that happen made a lasting impression on me. It sparked my interest in understanding these therapies more deeply and researching how they might be used to help more children and give more families hope both in India and the US. Another part of connecting with my culture was through doing classical dance. I have been dancing for years and it has helped me appreciate the history and meaning behind our traditions. My family also put me in Hindi lessons and Balvihar, where I later volunteered after graduating. When I came to college, I realized how much I wanted to stay connected to that part of myself. Joining the Hindu Student Association and the Rangoli dance team, where I now serve on the executive board for both organizations, helped me do that. Being around other students who understood the same traditions and experiences made a new place feel familiar. It has reminded me that my culture is not just something I grew up with. It continues to shape the person I am becoming. My parents have worked incredibly hard to give me opportunities that they did not have. My dad is the only one who works because my mom stays home to care for my younger brother. His therapies, appointments, and daily support are a full time responsibility and require a significant financial commitment. I have watched my parents make countless sacrifices to make sure he has everything he needs while also supporting me through college. Even with the financial aid I have received, paying for college is still difficult for my family. This scholarship would help ease some of that pressure and allow me to focus on my education without adding to the financial burden my parents already carry. It would allow me to continue working toward a future where I can combine my education with the experiences that have shaped me and hopefully contribute to better outcomes for children with autism and their families.

I plan to use my education to impact my community by pursuing a career in pediatric neurology and advocating for the integration of environmental factors in the treatment of neurological conditions. Having grown up in a household where my brother, Rishi, required intensive care for his autism, I’ve witnessed firsthand how crucial proper support and care can be in improving someone’s quality of life. I am passionate about making that kind of difference for children in my community and beyond, particularly those facing neurological conditions that affect their cognitive and emotional development. Through my education, I aim to become a pediatric neurologist with a focus on understanding how external factors, particularly the environment, influence neurological health. I believe that creating a holistic approach to treatment—one that considers not only medical treatment but also lifestyle changes—can improve outcomes for children with neurological conditions. This approach is rooted in my desire to help my brother, and other children like him, thrive. I have seen how natural environments, like parks and green spaces, have had a calming effect on Rishi, and I’m eager to research this link further. Through my studies, I hope to contribute to the emerging field that investigates how green spaces, reduced noise pollution, and other environmental factors can enhance brain health, especially for children with cognitive or developmental challenges. By exploring these connections, I plan to offer more well-rounded treatment options for my future patients. Additionally, I want to use my education to increase access to healthcare for underserved communities, particularly those who might not have the resources or knowledge to seek specialized care. Many children, especially those with non-verbal autism or other developmental disorders, don’t receive the care they need simply because their parents or guardians may not know where to turn. I would like to be a resource for these families, helping them navigate healthcare systems, advocating for necessary services, and providing guidance on how to integrate therapies and treatments into their daily lives. Growing up with my brother taught me the importance of advocacy in healthcare, and I want to pass that on to other families in my community. Along with these professional goals, I plan to continue my involvement in local initiatives that promote public health and well-being. As part of my volunteer work at my temple and in my local community, I’ve seen how small, community-based efforts can have a large impact. For example, teaching kids at my temple about the importance of wellness and how to incorporate stress-relieving practices like yoga into their routines has been incredibly rewarding. By continuing to be a mentor and advocate for healthy living, I aim to inspire young people in my community to take charge of their own health, just as I have learned to do throughout my own life. Finally, I want to use my education to continue addressing barriers to healthcare. As an international student, I know how difficult it can be to navigate systems that aren’t designed with you in mind. I have been personally impacted by my status, which limits access to certain financial aid programs, and I want to help make these systems more inclusive. By raising awareness and working toward policy changes that make healthcare more accessible to families like mine, I believe I can help create a more equitable healthcare system that serves all members of the community, regardless of their background.

One of my favorite aspects of our planet is the healing power of its green spaces—forests, parks, gardens, and natural landscapes that offer much more than just beauty. These spaces have an incredible ability to restore and rejuvenate our mental and physical well-being. Studies have shown that spending time in nature can lower stress levels, improve mood, and even enhance cognitive function. The simple act of walking through a park or sitting under a tree can have profound effects on our mental state, helping to reduce anxiety and increase overall happiness. For me, this connection between nature and healing is something I deeply appreciate, and it’s why I’m passionate about preserving these spaces for everyone to enjoy. To contribute to ensuring these green spaces remain intact, I have actively volunteered in my community to promote environmental preservation. I’ve participated in multiple community clean-up events, where we’ve removed litter and waste from parks and natural reserves. This is a small but important way to protect these environments, ensuring they stay clean and accessible. I have also volunteered in tree planting initiatives, which help restore ecosystems and combat pollution, making green spaces healthier and more vibrant. These actions are necessary not only for the benefit of the environment but for the healing of the people who use these spaces as a refuge from the stresses of daily life. Beyond volunteer efforts, I’ve been an advocate for preserving green spaces through supporting local policies that protect parks and prevent overdevelopment. Green spaces are becoming increasingly rare in urban areas, where they are often replaced by buildings and roads. I’ve worked with local organizations to raise awareness about the importance of these spaces for both the environment and public health. The more green space we can preserve, the more accessible these healing environments are for everyone, particularly those living in cities where natural landscapes might be harder to find. Additionally, I’ve adopted more sustainable practices in my own life, such as using public transportation, recycling, and reducing waste. I believe that every small action counts when it comes to reducing our environmental impact. These habits not only help protect the planet but also contribute to maintaining the green spaces that are so vital for our mental and physical well-being. Looking ahead, my passion for green spaces extends to my interest in the intersection of the environment and neurological health. I am particularly interested in how green spaces can be used to help those with neurological conditions. There is growing evidence that spending time in nature can reduce stress, improve focus, and enhance cognitive function, which is crucial for individuals with conditions such as autism or ADHD. My brother, who is nonverbal and diagnosed with autism, has benefited from spending time in natural settings, where he seems to feel calmer and more focused. As I pursue a career in pediatric neurology, I hope to explore how environmental factors, like access to green spaces, can be incorporated into therapeutic approaches to improve brain development and mental health for children.

One of the most meaningful community events I’ve participated in was the annual Diwali celebration at my local temple. Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is one of the most significant and widely celebrated festivals in the Hindu community. It celebrates the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. Our temple’s Diwali celebration was a gathering of people from all walks of life, coming together to celebrate not only the spiritual significance of the holiday but also the sense of community and unity it fosters. As a volunteer, I helped with setting up the event, organizing the offerings, distributing food, and guiding attendees through the temple. The entire day was filled with various activities, such as prayers, performances, traditional dances, and the lighting of lamps to symbolize the triumph of light. The event was not only an opportunity for people to come together and celebrate but also for us to deepen our connection with each other and our shared cultural heritage. For me, it was especially meaningful to see how people from different backgrounds, both within and outside the temple, came to celebrate Diwali, sharing in the joy and spiritual significance of the occasion. What made this event so significant was how it brought together generations of people, from young children to older adults, to partake in a celebration that was both deeply rooted in tradition and open to everyone in the community. I witnessed children’s faces light up as they took part in cultural dances and older community members teaching the younger generation about the religious rituals, making it a true intergenerational experience. The sense of togetherness and the spirit of giving back were central to the celebration. It reminded me of the importance of community—how collective experiences can build bridges, promote understanding, and create lasting connections. The Diwali event also highlighted the value of cultural celebration as a means of fostering inclusivity and understanding. In a society where many people come from diverse backgrounds, it was inspiring to see how a festival like Diwali could serve as an entry point for sharing one’s culture with others. People from different faiths and ethnicities attended, showing a genuine interest in learning about the traditions and values that Diwali represents. This openness helped to break down barriers and promote mutual respect, creating a sense of belonging for everyone involved. From this event, I hope to see even greater inclusivity and engagement in the future. I would love to see more community events that not only celebrate specific cultural traditions but also encourage people to learn from and appreciate one another’s backgrounds. By creating spaces where diverse traditions are acknowledged and celebrated, we can build a stronger, more empathetic community that values differences rather than seeing them as obstacles. Additionally, it would be wonderful to see more charitable initiatives incorporated into these celebrations. Diwali, at its core, is about spreading light and joy, and one way to further this message would be by organizing charitable drives or fundraising efforts during the event to support local causes. Whether it’s providing food for those in need or supporting education for underprivileged children, giving back to the community during a festival like Diwali can strengthen the spirit of service and compassion that the holiday represents. Participating in this Diwali celebration reminded me of the profound impact that community events can have, not just for those who are part of the community but for the broader society. It reinforced my belief in the power of cultural exchange and the importance of building bridges to create a more inclusive and compassionate world.

I’ve always found purpose in helping others, which is why I’m passionate about pursuing a career in medicine. Growing up as the primary caregiver for my younger brother, Rishi, who has autism and is nonverbal, I’ve experienced firsthand the challenges faced by individuals who cannot advocate for themselves. Caring for him taught me the value of patience, resilience, and unconditional love. This experience inspired me to pursue a career in pediatrics and neurology, where I can help children like my brother who face unique neurological challenges. I’m particularly interested in how the environment influences brain development and neurological conditions. Throughout high school, I delved into neuroscience and environmental science, and I’ve become fascinated by the connection between the two. Research has shown that green spaces can reduce stress and improve cognitive function, while pollution and noise can increase risks to neurological health. I hope to combine my knowledge of both fields to treat patients holistically, not just addressing their medical symptoms but also considering how environmental factors might be influencing their health. By exploring natural, long-term solutions, such as lifestyle changes or adjustments to their surroundings, I aim to provide care that reduces reliance on medication and promotes sustainable well-being. In addition to my passion for medicine, I’ve also found fulfillment in community service. I’ve dedicated 118 hours at my local temple, where I taught children Hindi, packed and served food, cleaned, and organized supplies. Serving my community has allowed me to form deep connections and a sense of belonging, especially with those who share my cultural background. I’ve also spent 85 hours volunteering with my FIRST Robotics team, participating in community events such as helping at carnivals and supporting local organizations like the post office. My time at Good Shepherd Cub Care, where I ran activities like chess club for children and shelved books, has given me 62 hours of valuable volunteer experience. I also volunteered for 35 hours at Friends of Highland Endoscopy, where I brought food and water to patients and sanitized recovery rooms. These experiences have strengthened my commitment to service and the importance of compassion in healthcare. Outside of my academic and volunteer work, I have several hobbies that bring balance to my life. Dance has been my passion since I was young, providing me with an outlet to express myself. Whether through traditional Indian dance or contemporary styles, dance has always been a space where I feel free and joyful. Baking is another hobby I enjoy, where I experiment with different ingredients and flavors, finding creativity in blending unexpected combinations. Yoga and meditation are practices that help me stay centered, and I’ve led meditation sessions for groups of children, teaching them mindfulness techniques. In my medical career, I plan to integrate my passion for helping others, my interest in neuroscience, and my commitment to environmental well-being. I want to provide compassionate, patient-centered care while also advocating for changes that promote healthier environments, especially for those who face language or cultural barriers in accessing quality care. Through this, I hope to make a lasting, positive impact on the world.

My interest in healthcare started with my brother, Rishi, who has autism and is nonverbal. Caring for him pushed me to think beyond words and understand his needs through actions. I remember helping him with schoolwork during the pandemic, breaking down each lesson into small, manageable steps while keeping him calm in an overwhelming environment. It was a constant process of trial and error, but each small victory felt like a major breakthrough. I learned how to be patient and creative, skills that have stayed with me and shaped my desire to care for others more formally. In addition to Rishi, I’ve found myself naturally drawn to situations where I can help others. Whether it was volunteering at a temple to organize food drives or volunteering at a daycare to help children learn to read, write, or understand the rules of games, I felt a sense of fulfillment. The satisfaction I gained from these roles showed me that I want to pursue a field where I can make a direct impact on people’s lives, providing care and support that truly makes a difference in their well-being. I’ve also taken hands-on Project Lead The Way (PLTW) courses, a dual enrollment course pathway through RIT. Through this program, I’ve had the opportunity to dive deeply into all the body systems, learning to take vitals, diagnose diseases, and even perform procedures such as Western blotting. This hands-on experience has given me a solid foundation in the technical aspects of healthcare, and I’ve gained confidence in my ability to handle the challenges that come with working in a medical setting. I want to pursue a career in healthcare, particularly in pediatric neurology, because I’ve seen firsthand how understanding a patient’s unique circumstances can make all the difference. My experiences have taught me that true healing goes beyond diagnosis—it’s about making people feel heard, valued, and understood. I’ve witnessed this firsthand when I translated for my family during medical appointments, ensuring they knew what was happening and that their concerns were acknowledged. I want to provide that same level of care, especially to those who face language or cultural barriers. Volunteering at the hospital, where I directly interacted with patients, confirmed this even more. I saw how small gestures—listening to their needs, and providing them comfort—could make a profound difference in their well-being. By combining empathy with medical expertise, I hope to help families navigate difficult conditions, addressing both the physical and emotional factors that contribute to recovery. This scholarship would allow me to continue my education and deepen my understanding of how the brain and environment interact, which is crucial to my long-term goal of working with children who have neurological conditions. My passion for this field, combined with my hands-on experience caring for my brother and my dedication to learning, makes me a strong candidate. I’m eager to take the skills I’ve learned and apply them to make a broader impact in healthcare.

From a young age, I’ve been drawn to helping others, especially those who cannot easily advocate for themselves. This began at home, where I took on the role of caregiver for my younger brother, Rishi, who has autism and is nonverbal. Being responsible for understanding his needs, interpreting his nonverbal cues, and advocating for him taught me patience, empathy, and resilience. These qualities, shaped by my role as Rishi’s caregiver, have significantly influenced my decision to pursue a career in healthcare, specifically as a pediatric neurologist. Growing up, I faced the challenges of balancing my personal needs with the responsibilities of caregiving. However, I soon realized that my role as Rishi’s advocate and supporter was not a burden but an opportunity to develop a unique understanding of individuals with neurological and developmental conditions. My experiences with Rishi taught me that healthcare goes beyond treating symptoms; it involves deeply understanding a person’s needs, environment, and well-being. These early lessons have become the foundation of my passion for pediatric neurology, where I hope to make a positive impact by improving the quality of care for children with neurological conditions. What drives me is a passion for understanding how the brain works and how environmental factors—such as exposure to pollutants, access to green spaces, and even stress—affect brain development and cognitive health. Through my studies in neuroscience and environmental health, I’ve become fascinated by the intersection of these fields. I believe that addressing neurological conditions requires not just medical interventions but a comprehensive understanding of how a person’s surroundings influence their health. My goal is to explore how environmental factors impact cognitive development, especially in children, and to find ways to improve patient outcomes through holistic, sustainable solutions. In my future career, I aim to apply these insights to create lasting, positive changes for children and their families. I plan to advocate for integrating environmental considerations into healthcare, helping to create healthier, more nurturing environments that support cognitive development and well-being. Whether it’s through research on environmental influences on neurological health or by working directly with families to create more supportive home environments, I hope to lead the way in developing patient-centered, long-term solutions that go beyond traditional treatments. Ultimately, I want to be a leader in pediatric neurology, combining cutting-edge research with compassionate care to help children thrive. By focusing on both the individual and their environment, I believe I can make a meaningful difference in the lives of children with neurological conditions, giving them the best chance to reach their full potential and live healthier, more fulfilling lives. Through this approach, I hope to have a lasting impact not only on my patients but also on the broader healthcare system, advocating for a future where environmental and neurological health are considered together for better outcomes.

One of the most profound challenges I’ve faced is growing up as the primary caregiver for my younger brother, Rishi, who was diagnosed with autism and is nonverbal. From a young age, I was tasked with responsibilities that most kids my age didn’t have—helping with his daily needs, assisting him in schoolwork, and interpreting his gestures when words couldn’t express what he felt. At times, it was overwhelming. I struggled with feelings of loneliness, as the attention and energy my parents gave to Rishi left little room for my own emotional needs. I felt as though I had to grow up faster than my peers, and I often longed for the parental support I saw others receive. Despite these challenges, I slowly began to realize that my experience, while difficult, was also shaping me in powerful ways. Caring for Rishi taught me patience, empathy, and resilience. I had to learn how to communicate with him without words, to be attuned to his emotions and needs, and to remain calm and composed when situations became difficult. This required me to become more resourceful and independent, learning how to balance my schoolwork, extracurriculars, and home responsibilities while providing the care my brother needed. One of the biggest turning points came when I reframed how I viewed my role. I realized that while I was giving a lot, I was also receiving much in return. Rishi may not have been able to communicate verbally, but his affection, his resilience in facing his own challenges, and the small moments of connection between us showed me that love and support are not always expressed in conventional ways. I was learning valuable life lessons—about unconditional love, the importance of patience, and finding joy in the small victories—that I might not have gained otherwise. I overcame this adversity by leaning into the strengths it helped me build. I sought out support from mentors and friends, who helped me process my emotions and provided guidance when I needed it. I also found strength in the sense of fulfillment that came from knowing I was making a positive impact on Rishi’s life. Over time, I developed a stronger sense of self-worth, realizing that I didn’t need external validation to feel valuable. My bond with Rishi deepened, and I came to understand that our relationship was a source of joy and meaning, not just a burden. This experience shaped me into someone who is deeply empathetic and resilient. It also inspired me to pursue a career in healthcare, where I hope to advocate for others who face challenges communicating or navigating the healthcare system. My advice to anyone facing similar adversity is to embrace the lessons it offers. While it may feel overwhelming at times, these experiences build inner strength and teach you resilience. Find people you can lean on, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Most importantly, know that your experiences are shaping you into a stronger, more empathetic person—qualities that will carry you through many of life’s challenges.

My journey in STEM began with a fascination for problem-solving. From the moment I built my first robot in elementary school, I was captivated by how STEM fields could transform abstract ideas into real, tangible solutions. As I progressed through school, this curiosity deepened into a passion. My experiences in robotics, biology, and biomedical science courses not only sharpened my skills but also shaped my career aspirations. Through each project, I realized that STEM is about more than just technical knowledge; it’s about innovating and pushing boundaries to address real-world problems. As a young woman in STEM, one of the most significant challenges I faced was overcoming societal expectations. In robotics, where most of my peers were male, I often felt like I had to prove myself. I had to work harder to show that I was just as capable of designing and building robots, leading meetings, and making critical decisions. Initially, I struggled with self-doubt, especially in leadership roles, questioning whether I truly belonged. But I didn’t let those feelings stop me. I kept pushing myself, seeking mentorship from teachers and more experienced peers, and gradually developed confidence in my abilities. By my junior year, I became the project manager for my robotics team, leading our efforts to build a robot while coordinating meetings, sending weekly updates, and ensuring everyone was aligned with our goals. I learned how to stay organized under pressure, balancing technical details with team dynamics, and how to adapt when things didn’t go as planned—valuable skills that I know will be essential in my future career. My passion for STEM has grown from the belief that it can make a profound impact on people's lives, particularly in healthcare. I want to apply my skills to solve real-world problems by addressing the intersection of neuroscience and the environment. Through my courses in biomedical science, I’ve developed a fascination with how the brain works, and I’ve become particularly interested in how environmental factors affect cognitive health and neurological development. Whether it’s noise pollution, green spaces, or exposure to toxins, I want to explore how these external factors shape brain function and find innovative solutions to improve people's lives. My goal is to combine neuroscience and environmental studies to create sustainable, holistic treatments for neurological conditions—minimizing reliance on medication and focusing more on improving patients’ environments. Beyond technical knowledge, my involvement in STEM activities has also been instrumental in helping me develop leadership skills. As I led my robotics team, I learned the importance of clear communication, delegation, and keeping the team motivated—even when facing technical setbacks or unexpected challenges. I also taught coding to younger students through a community program, which helped me hone my ability to explain complex concepts in simple terms and cultivate patience and empathy. These leadership experiences have prepared me to lead teams of researchers and healthcare professionals in the future, fostering collaboration across different disciplines to tackle complex healthcare issues. Ultimately, I plan to use my skills to create a career that blends my passion for neuroscience, healthcare, and environmental science. I want to lead research projects that bridge the gap between medicine and environmental health, finding creative, sustainable solutions for patients. By empowering others and driving innovation, I aim to make a lasting difference in the field of healthcare and beyond.

My decision to pursue a career in healthcare began at home, where I took on the role of caregiver for my younger brother, Rishi, who has autism and is nonverbal. From a young age, I learned how to communicate through his subtle gestures, finding joy and comfort in our connection. This experience shaped my desire to help others, especially those who are unable to express their needs easily. Watching healthcare workers care for him during the COVID-19 pandemic further solidified my interest in the field. Their compassion and resilience showed me that medicine is not just about treatments—it's about providing emotional support, understanding, and care for the whole person. The pandemic also expanded my view of healthcare's impact on vulnerable populations. I assisted Rishi with his schoolwork during remote learning, witnessing firsthand how children with special needs can face unique challenges in their daily lives. These experiences sparked my interest in pediatrics and neurology, where I could make a difference for children like Rishi. I want to work in a field where I can advocate for those who might struggle to advocate for themselves, helping them navigate their unique health needs. As I delved deeper into science through high school, particularly through my Project Lead The Way courses, I found myself fascinated by the brain’s complexity. Studying body systems in Human Body Systems class, I was captivated by how neurological functions influence everyday life, from cognition to movement. This led me to want to explore how neurological conditions are impacted by both genetics and the environment. In my future career as a pediatric neurologist, I aim to combine my passion for neuroscience with my desire to improve patient care. I want to focus on how environmental factors—like pollution, green spaces, and even noise levels—impact brain development and cognitive health. By recommending lifestyle changes and advocating for environmental improvements, I hope to offer long-term, sustainable solutions for my patients beyond just medication. Whether it’s suggesting modifications to a child’s environment or providing therapies that help them cope with stress, I want to help individuals thrive in ways that address their whole being. Ultimately, my goal is to provide care that considers a patient’s entire environment, recognizing that health is more than what happens inside a hospital room. I envision creating a practice that is not only inclusive of children with developmental and neurological conditions but one that advocates for holistic approaches to treatment. This vision is deeply rooted in my experiences with Rishi—understanding that while his needs may be unique, the love and care he deserves are not. This has driven me to pursue healthcare with the goal of improving the lives of children, especially those who, like my brother, might have difficulty expressing their needs but whose lives are no less valuable. Through healthcare, I hope to extend the empathy, patience, and resilience I’ve learned into a meaningful career.