I am Edward, a 25 year old man who grew up in West Texas on the border with Mexico. Naturally being in a border city, you experience many blends of culture, language, and values over decades. I am from a mixed family, being both Hispanic and a tinge of European. I've enjoyed a continued interest in the sciences since I was little when I was building fun experiments with my dad. I would take water samples from our pond and look at them with the dingy microscope I begged for, back in 2007. I have been fascinated with microorganisms, watching them move, divide, and engulf each other since then. I briefly joined an engineering program for a few years in high school, but I only realized I did not enjoy it in college during my undergrad freshman year when I switched back into a science degree in Cellular Biochemistry. I loved doing that, and got to join a research paper about parasites in my senior year as a result of my forwardness with professors and my high GPA. Schooling wasn't always the easiest time, because of financial strain on my low income family, as common here in the southwest US but I always made the most of it because they supported me unconditionally. As I was just graduating with my bachelors in biochemistry, I saw an opportunity to join my school's very new pharmacy program with it only being founded in 2017. I applied, joined interviews, and spoke to many of the faculty there. I was so happy receiving an email congratulating me about my acceptance in this new doctoral program just a month later. I decided to apply because I wanted to make the most impact to my family and my community because healthcare is not something everyone can get, especially here in a Hispanic dominated community. Pharmacy offers a unique blend of scientific rigor and patient interaction which both met my conditions. As a pharmacist, I'll have the opportunity to leverage my scientific knowledge to ensure the safe and effective use of medications while also building meaningful relationships with patients. I believe in the importance of holistic healthcare, and pharmacists play a crucial role in interdisciplinary healthcare teams, collaborating with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to optimize patient outcomes. Pharmacists' responsibilities are increasing beyond traditional distribution to include drug therapy management, chronic illness management, and preventative care services. This decision is consistent with my ambition to be at the forefront of healthcare innovation and to help improve healthcare access and outcomes for diverse groups here in the southwest. The biology and biochemistry of this world is always shattering our expectations that we once deemed to be correct. Life is an incredible fortune that happened by mere chance and that is truly incredible to me. The medicines people need and take directly impact these building blocks that dictate how we function, and why we function. Pharmacy is an extension of my love for biochemistry, that I can take to positively impact another's own health for a better and continued life. Life is full of positives and negatives, at every turn. We may feel sad, hurt, or angry at the worst of times but we also cry, laugh, and smile at the best of times. I believe you have to help yourself first before you helps others so I found my joy and my interest in this portion of life. I am fully ready to now help others because they did so for me. That's why I took up pharmacy.

I plan to become a preceptor/mentor to future pharmacy students to help them navigate through their studies, internships, and early career challenges. Sharing my experiences, insights, and offering modest advice to them to maximize their career goals in a positive way. Everyone will have ups and downs in their pursuit but I think sharing and creating a support network as to allow people a way to express their worries and concerns for validation will be a great addition. This can include steps or a non specific guideline, as not everyone will have the issues they are facing. This network can be used to build connections with their peers, mentors, and have the ability to invite outwards to further expand their horizons. I believe the biggest skill that all pharmacists express is medication management and adherence. Patients do not always have the ability or knowledge to understand their important medications. Pharmacists play a crucial role in this regard because we develop relationships with these patients who trust us with helping them in their well-being. We can educate them positively, answer their concerns, respect their decisions, and improve the community health standard. We are the most accessible healthcare provider, and we can use that position to launch for advocation into better policies, programs, and addressing determinants of health in the greater community. I believe Dr. Sami Shafiq-Barker was a fantastic pharmacist who pursued these ideals to assist patients and changed their lives for the better, both physically and mentally.

My existence as a low-income minority child was riddled with difficulties from an early age. However, the most important obstacle I endured was the death of my loving father when I was 14, just before starting high school. This horrific loss put me in a state of mourning and changed my outlook on life. Furthermore, my ambitions of becoming a pharmacist looked out of reach owing to severe self-doubt about my ability. In this article, I will describe my path of overcoming adversity, how I overcame self-doubt to follow my dream of becoming a pharmacist, and how my experiences as a low-income minority impacted my resilience. My father's death at a young age was a watershed point in my life. The gap created by their absence was immense, and it had a significant impact on my mental well-being. For a long time, I felt alienated and struggled to cope with the crushing pain, to the point that I considered dropping out of school. Furthermore, while my mother fought to make ends meet, our family experienced financial uncertainty, making our situation much more difficult. My sister was distraught, and my niece was just six years old at the time. Despite these difficulties, I recognized that I needed to be strong not just for myself, but also for my family. This event taught me the value of resilience and adaptation and prepared me for the challenges that lay ahead. Following the incident, I had a strong desire to work in healthcare, primarily in pharmacy. However, because I was low-income, I frequently felt like an outsider in the medical industry. My lack of experience and money made me doubt my ability and credentials. I was tormented by feelings of inadequacy, and I frequently questioned if I had what it required to thrive in the cutthroat world of pharmacy or what alternative jobs I might pursue. This self-doubt formed a roadblock between me and my goals, slowing my development. I didn't believe myself to be intelligent or skilled, but others did. Despite my self-doubt, I refused to let it define or govern my destiny since my niece influenced me much because she regarded me as her role model. I began looking for ways to get pharmacy experience, such as volunteering at local clinics and shadowing pharmacists, but I was unable to find any at the time. I still went to university and graduated with honors with a B.S. in Cellular and Molecular Biochemistry. I was surrounded by wonderful instructors who not only pushed me to apply to pharmacy school but also to work in their research laboratories. I grew to trust myself more and more, and finding the world of biochemistry inspired me to go to graduate school. I applied and got accepted into the School of Pharmacy with a total seat capacity of 65. My access to great education, resources, and opportunities was frequently hampered by financial restrictions. My community on the Borderlands is on the lower of healthcare access. I want to become a healthcare professional in my community to give back to them because they helped me in my time of need and I want to do theirs in the future. It is my way of helping those and giving back to the place that raised me. My experience shows that difficulty does not define us; rather, it motivates us to become stronger and more resilient versions of ourselves. As I continue my pharmaceutical career, I am dedicated to breaking down barriers, advocating for others, and making a difference in the lives of individuals who experience similar obstacles.

Putting others' needs and well-being ahead of my own is the core of selflessness. It entails behaving with a genuine desire to assist and support people with no expectation of recompense. In my opinion, living selflessness is letting rid of selfish reasons and ego-driven aspirations and concentrating only on the welfare of others and the larger good. To be unselfish is to look beyond one's own interests and needs and see the interdependence of all beings. It is to show understanding, compassion, and kindness to people around me, even if it means making personal sacrifices. The goal for unselfish acts is to make a positive difference in the life of someone else, regardless of whether I obtain acclaim or benefits in return. The beauty of selflessness is found in the purity of aim and the delight that comes from seeing others raised up. It is a statement of love and understanding that goes beyond self-centeredness. People may want to perform selfless actions for a variety of reasons, including inner peace, empathy, personal growth, contribution, or having an altruistic character. I beleive my values of this stem from my mother anf father who are quite kind individuals. Engaging in altruistic deeds provides me with a distinct sense of fulfillment and inner calm. When I focus on the needs of others, I am able to break away from the never-ending cycle of self-centered demands and fleeting joys. Witnessing the beneficial influence of my activities on the lives of others gives me a tremendous feeling of fulfillment. It reminds me that the actual meaning of life is found in our capacity to connect and support one another. This is why I an pursuing pharmaceuticals. Furthermore, acts of altruism may be quite humbling. I get perspective on my own blessings and acknowledge the luxury I may have taken for granted by stepping outside of my own problems and assisting those less fortunate or in trouble. This insight enhances my thankfulness and reinforces my dedication. To share some stories, I quite often find myself at the doctor's office waiting for my own visit. I encounter several elder patients, in wheelchairs, walkers, or canes who are either by themselves or accompanied by their older children in their 50's. I hold open entrances or push them into their appointment rooms before the nurse takes them in. I don't do it expecting even a thank you but I do get one everytime and it makes me happy. I don't like to see people struggle becuase of their body so I make sure to actively go out of my way to help them. Another instance is when I helped a young couple on I-10 here in my state, because their battery died and they couldn't start their car. It was about 2 in the morning, and not too many cars were passing by. I had my jumper cables so I pulled over and asked them if they needed some help. I restarted their car, and they went on their way with gratidue so they didn't have to miss their families babyshower in the mid-morning. In the course of being unselfish, I may find hidden qualities and talents that I was unaware of. Selflessness may show the best of who I am and motivate continual personal improvement, whether it's being a soothing listener, an effective problem solution, or a source of inspiration. So I actively try to lend a hand if I am able or capable to. I think we can all be a little nicer, and show the good qualities we have.

As someone who has dealt with the difficulties of unilateral deafness, I've learned to overcome hurdles through persistence, adaptation, and the support of people around me. Loud noises and crowded places overwhelm my right ear as it has to make up for my left ear. I have had these obstacles since I was born and adapting in an rather less understood environment in the early 2000's as a child has forced me into habits I carry around despite medical improvements for the deaf in the recent years. While my impairment has posed unique challenges, I feel it has also spurred my desire to improve people's lives via healthcare. I have remained committed to studying and personal improvement in order to enhance my studies and achieve my ambition of becoming a doctor of pharmacy. I have effectively navigated academic contexts by using assistive technology and requesting additional help when necessary. My strong work ethic and persistence have enabled me to flourish in my studies and get a more in-depth grasp of pharmacology and its role in healthcare. My interest in pharmacology extends to other subjects such as immunology, where I am fascinated by the complexities of the human immune system and its function in disease prevention. Immunology fascinates me because it provides a better understanding of how drugs and therapies interact with the immune system to promote healing and wellbeing. The medical field is full of collaboration, and this is no different. Pharmacology and Immunology interact in at least 7 ways starting drug development, vaccinations, immunotherapy, drug-immune reactions, infectious diseases, autoimmune diseases, and adverse drug response reactions. Pharmacology and immunology must work together to advance medical knowledge and improve patient care. Their partnership has fueled the development of novel medicines, customized medicine, and a better knowledge of the complex workings of the human immune system. My ultimate objective in pursuing higher education in pharmacy is to become a well-respected pharmacist capable of making critical assessments and decisions for the wider public. I aspire to play a big part in improving health outcomes and increasing the overall quality of life for people in need, armed with knowledge, empathy, and a love for patient care. As a future pharmacist, I see myself collaborating with healthcare teams to ensure that patients receive drugs that are both effective and safe for their specific requirements. I want to be a patient education advocate, inspiring people to take an active part in managing their health problems and drugs. In addition, I hope to contribute to pharmacology and immunology research and innovation. By remaining up to speed on the newest developments in these domains, I intend to contribute to the creation of new and improved medicines, which will eventually benefit countless people worldwide. Aside from patient care and research, I want to be actively involved in community outreach activities that promote health and wellbeing. I hope to alleviate healthcare inequities and promote access to essential drugs and information through interacting with local communities throughout the United States and here, in my homestate on the Borderland. I am aware that problems may come along the way, but I am convinced that my tenacity, flexibility, and the support of people around me will propel me ahead. I am excited to take on the duties and possibilities that come with being a pharmacist since it fits perfectly with my ambition to make a good difference in people's lives. .

Living sustainably entails making intentional decisions that have a low environmental effect and contribute to the long-term health of our planet. It entails implementing eco-friendly activities and behaviors that enhance resource efficiency, decrease waste output, and limit greenhouse gas emissions. Energy conservation is one of the most important choices I make to live sustainably. Turning off lights and electronic devices when not in use, optimizing heating and cooling systems, and utilizing energy-efficient equipment are all examples. Considering alternative energy sources such as solar panels or wind turbines can also help to minimize our dependency on fossil fuels and lessen our carbon footprint. Another critical factor is lowering consumption and waste. By exercising conscious consumption habits, I can play an important part in this area. This includes purchasing only what is required, choosing items with little packaging, and supporting firms that value sustainability and ethical operations. Furthermore, I always recycle my plastics and metals in the hopes that they will be utilized. Recycling and composting are critical for diverting garbage away from landfills and reducing the environmental effect of wasted goods. Since transportation contributes significantly to carbon emissions, selecting environmentally responsible solutions is critical. Walking, cycling, or taking public transit instead of driving a car can help to reduce one's carbon footprint dramatically. If a car is required, I would prefer to examine electric or hybrid vehicles since they can make a difference. However, I feel that the distance between US locations and the affordability of those automobiles require some compromise. Water conservation is often forgotten, yet it is as important in living a sustainable lifestyle. Fixing leaks, utilizing water-saving appliances, and being conscious of water consumption may all make a huge impact in protecting this important resource. I frequently use as little water as possible, taking brief showers or hand-washing dishes with the tap turned off. Saving money while simultaneously making a little contribution to environmental conservation. To lower our carbon footprint and alleviate the negative consequences of climate change, we must incorporate these deliberate choices into our everyday lives. Climate change endangers the earth and its inhabitants by causing increasing sea levels, catastrophic weather events, and ecological imbalances. We can limit the pace of climate change and protect the Earth's sensitive ecosystems for future generations by jointly adopting sustainable habits. Furthermore, lowering our carbon footprint is important not only for the environment but also for social and economic reasons. As climate change worsens, it disproportionately impacts vulnerable groups, resulting in questions of environmental justice. Transitioning to a low-carbon economy may also spur innovation, create green employment, and improve economic stability. It is critical to live sustainably and reduce our carbon footprint to protect the planet's health and secure a sustainable future. We may jointly contribute to a more robust and harmonious connection with our environment and the creatures that live beside us by making conscious choices in energy use, waste management, transportation, food, and water usage. Embracing sustainability is a communal commitment to maintaining our planet's resources and health for future generations, not simply an individual duty.

First and foremost, my voracious curiosity defines who I am. My guiding ideals are the quest of wisdom, insight, and intellectual advancement. I am enthralled by the world's wonders and am continuously attempting to fathom its secrets. Ravenclaw, known for its love of knowledge, would be the ideal home for a mind like mine. The House honors intellect and encourages its members to pursue their interests. In Ravenclaw, I would meet like-minded people who share my thirst for knowledge and engage in intriguing talks that widen my horizons. Ravenclaw's emphasis on creativity connects strongly with me. I thrive in an atmosphere that promotes the free expression of one's creativity and the exploration of novel ideas. My urge to push the frontiers of creation is fueled by the House's enthusiasm for the wonders, undiscovered, and inventive thinking. I enjoy any opportunity to bring my creativity to life, whether it's via poetry, bright landscape, science or experimenting with new concepts. Ravenclaw would provide me with the motivation and support I needed to nourish my creative spirit and develop my gifts to their greatest potential. Furthermore, Ravenclaw's emphasis on critical thinking matches my own approach to problem solving. I have a rational and analytical mind that is always analyzing complicated challenges and looking for novel answers. The House's devotion to intellectual rigor and strategic thinking would create a setting in which I could hone my logical skills. The trials in Ravenclaw's sacred halls would force me to think outside the box, improving my abilities to solve complicated puzzles and decipher mysterious riddles. Another important feature that pulls me to Ravenclaw is its appreciation of diversity and open-mindedness. Science thrives on collaboration and the sharing of ideas from many points of view. The inclusive atmosphere of Ravenclaw would present a rich tapestry of experiences and perspectives, extending my scientific horizons. I would be able to learn from Ravenclaws who have unique experience and perspectives, which would help me better appreciate the dense network of scientific knowledge. Finally, Ravenclaw's iconic raven denotes intelligence and acute observation—qualities that resonate strongly with my scientific ambitions. I, like the raven, have an intrinsic curiosity that pushes me to discover the natural world's hidden secrets. I get a kick out of attentively watching events, linking incongruous bits of knowledge, and uncovering hidden mysteries. My hunger for scientific information and my talent for insightful observation would be appreciated and cultivated in Ravenclaw, allowing me to shine as a scientist. If I get sorted into this House, I will proudly wear the blue and silver, for within these hallowed walls I will discover a community of creative minds, a fostering atmosphere for scientific progress, and the inspiration to uncover the world's riddles through the lens of science.

My name is Edward Trejo, a Hispanic mix from El Paso, Texas. I have been living here all my life, and plan to do so shortly. I recently graduated with a bachelor's degree in Cellular and Molecular Biochemistry and have been accepted into my university's School of Pharmacy Professional Program starting in the Fall of 2023. I am 24 years old with a hearing disability on the left side of my head, with ongoing tinnitus for 2 years now. I love music as the biggest joy in my day-to-day life. I practiced guitar and trumpet for 5 years total early when I was younger because of rock and jazz. My dad always played metal bands, like Motorhead, Black Sabbath, Juda Priest and his favorite Led Zeppelin. I took up that interest with Motley Crue and Quiet Riot, with power metal bands too. My academic goal is to obtain a doctoral degree and perform research into ongoing drug clinical trials and regulate new drugs coming to the market. My professional goal is to be an excellent pharmacist, assisting patients with their medications, answering concerns, and developing personalized treatment plans for them with their PCP. I need this scholarship award to lessen my student loan debt, and work towards paying off said debt faster within 10 years. I'm from a low-income, first-generation family that makes less than $23,000 a year. I cannot work to support my family as full-time grad school is a must for our future. My education will be paid for through a combination of scholarships, part-time jobs, and student loans. To lessen the financial strain, I will aggressively seek scholarships and fellowships that match my academic achievements and hobbies. In addition, I want to work part-time during my studies to help pay for my education. This will pay part of the expenses while also providing excellent professional experience. While I try to avoid using student loans as much as possible, I may consider borrowing to cover any leftover financing gaps. However, in order to assure favorable terms and affordable payback plans, I will thoroughly investigate and compare loan choices. Overall, I want to finance my education through scholarships, part-time job, and careful loan utilization. Metal appeals to my rebellious attitude and inspires me to accept my uniqueness. Its unabashed attitude pushes me to defy social standards and accept my authentic self without fear of being judged. Heavy Metal's forceful and cathartic character helps me to unleash pent-up emotions and find refuge in its cathartic embrace. Heavy Metal has strong lyrical meanings that typically tackle existential concerns, personal problems, and societal challenges, in addition to the musical onslaught. It causes me to reflect and piques my intellectual interest. It provides a feeling of community by linking me with a network of like-minded people who share my interest and beliefs. I love connecting with fans, and discussing albums. Heavy Metal performances are unrivaled in terms of creating an environment of unity and shared enthusiasm. The exciting atmosphere, headbanging in time with the audience, and seeing amazing artists pour their hearts out on stage - it's a thrilling and transforming event that transcends the bounds of everyday life. I cannot enjoy them live anymore due to my hearing, but I will always love live-shows. Heavy Metal music, in essence, signifies independence, self-expression, and an unbreakable spirit. It has defined my identity, given me courage in difficult times, and given me an outlet for my feelings. It provides inspiration, catharsis, and is a constant companion on this journey known as life.

My own experience with mental illness was depression and bipolar disorder. It started when my father accidentally overdosed on prescription medication, which I didn't even know he was doing from hopping between pharmacies. It was such a surreal moment, looking at my father's corpse as when we found him, it was 3 hours later. He loved to take daytime naps, so it wasn't unusual to see him go into the bedroom to sleep as he had many issues with his body. He passed away when I was 14 years old, the summer just before I went into high school. Everything started going downhill in the following months. My sister and mother had a tense relationship already, and I saw my sister break down mentally to then she grabbed a knife and started cutting herself in front of me. She locked herself in her room, and I had to kick the door in but she escaped through the window and ran down the street. Thankfully it was just an episode and got better, but I couldn't believe she would consider that when she had a 6-year-old daughter at the time. She went off to live with her daughter after our mom kicked her out of the house. I went to live with my mother and still have been for nearly 10 years because we just cannot support living by ourselves. Over those 10 years, I had a big episode of depression from all the moving houses, not seeing my sister, poor academic scores, and general burnout. I wanted to die, and even did a minor attempt at it but I could not go through with it. At 15 years old, I had a lot to left to do with my life, but the main things that go me through were my family, especially my niece. I couldn't leave her without an uncle, I wanted to see her grow up and do amazing things, like her current soccer championships. I told my mom about my suicidal thoughts and cried, to let her take me to get help. Those medications were awful and ineffective, they made me worse. I decided to stop taking them on my own. The thing is though, I got better by doing other activities. Working out, running, seeing my niece's games, seeing my mom smile, hanging out with friends, and eating healthy whole food. My own love for model building is another factor. This has influenced me to pursue my career as a pharmacist because those medications did not work, they killed my father and tore apart my family. I want to help make and regulate new medications that are safer and with fewer side effects. Helping patients with their concerns and giving back the help they need. The mental health industry is not good, and assuming that medicine will solve everything is a false belief, it can only help the symptoms. You need someone to help, but you have to be willing to get help. I feel for Trevor, doing his best to make others happy and be selfless. It's always those who smile the brightest that are the saddest. I hope that you and your family can find peace and celebrate his life. The best thing to do is to reach out more than ever, and I plan to do just that in my own pursuit for the remaining time I have left upon this green-blue home.

To begin with, calculus is a fundamental field of mathematics that serves as the foundation for comprehending and interpreting complicated systems and events. Its applications are many and cover many areas in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. One of the main reasons calculus is important in STEM is its role in modeling and forecasting change. Calculus offers us with sophisticated tools for describing rates of change and accumulation, such as derivatives and integrals. Calculus, for example, allows us to examine the motion of objects, simulate fluid dynamics, and explore electromagnetic fields. It would be difficult to create exact mathematical representations of these occurrences without calculus. Furthermore, calculus is essential in domains such as engineering, where it is extensively employed in system design and optimization. Calculus aids engineers in the analysis of structural stability, the optimization of electrical circuits, the understanding of heat transport, and the solution of differential equations that regulate numerous engineering processes. Calculus offers the mathematical foundation required for engineers to handle complicated issues, whether they are constructing a bridge, developing a control system for a robotic arm, or simulating fluid flow in aerodynamics. Calculus is also useful in the field of computer science. It is the starting point for learning about algorithms, data analysis, and machine learning. In optimization algorithms, differential calculus is used, whereas integral calculus is used in probability theory and statistics. These mathematical principles are essential for creating algorithms that fuel artificial intelligence systems, such as prediction. The power of calculus to evaluate and quantify change goes beyond the physical sciences. Calculus is used in economics and finance to model and analyze complicated supply and demand systems, optimize production functions, and comprehend concepts such as marginal utility and elasticity. It helps economists and financial analysts to make sound forecasts and choices based on mathematical models that take into account rates of change and accumulation. Biochemistry enables us to comprehend the chemical processes and interactions that occur at the molecular level within living organisms. It elucidates the structure, function, and control of biological substances such proteins, nucleic acids, and carbohydrates. Scientists get a better grasp of how biological systems work by researching biochemistry, and this information has far-reaching consequences in a variety of STEM areas. Biochemistry, in the context of calculus, frequently depends on mathematical modeling and analysis to describe complicated biological events. By quantifying reaction rates, enzyme kinetics, and chemical equilibrium, calculus aids in the understanding of biochemical pathways and metabolic processes. Biochemists can create mathematical models to mimic and predict the behavior of biological systems by using calculus principles such as differential equations and rate equations. Calculus is significant in STEM because it provides a sophisticated mathematical foundation for evaluating change and modeling complicated systems. It has numerous applications in physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and many other fields. Without calculus, we would be severely constrained in our capacity to comprehend and influence the complicated workings of the natural and technological worlds. since a result, a strong grasp of calculus is required for anybody seeking a career in the STEM industry, since it enables individuals to handle difficult issues, make accurate forecasts, and drive innovation in their particular industries.

My potential career, and the one I'm accepted into, is Pharmacy. I've explored several other careers, such as an electrical engineer, a biologist, an entomologist, a physicist and lastly a biochemist. In particular, my B.S. was in biochemistry and sought the field of pharmacy to professionally practice working in drug development, safety, and regulation. We depend on drug compounds, some for a temporary affliction and others, for a permanent chronic issue. Diabetes, high blood pressure, autoimmune disorders, and more need to be treated with compounds to control and keep the person healthy. Metabolic disorders, epigenetic disorders, and infections all need to manage by compounds to treat the cause, with some working quite well and others having little impact. It's trial and error with medication. At the same time, it's an arms race between our treatments and the organisms causing disease and we are losing the longer it goes on. Resistance is a big issue in medical treatment, and nuclear options are being resorted to, to kill the cause while also killing the tissues of the person. It brings me fulfillment because pharmacists play a crucial role in healthcare by ensuring the safe and effective use of medications. They have the opportunity to directly impact patients' lives by providing medication counseling, answering questions, and offering valuable advice. The ability to help others and contribute to their well-being can be incredibly fulfilling. The field of pharmacy is dynamic and constantly evolving. Pharmacists are responsible for staying updated with new medications, research findings, and treatment guidelines. This aspect of continuous learning keeps the profession intellectually stimulating and offers opportunities for professional growth. This is not a stagnant profession and is a required one for many to turn to get their medications while playing a role in the development of medications. The pharmacy offers a range of career paths beyond traditional retail or hospital settings. Pharmacists can work in areas such as community pharmacies, hospitals, the pharmaceutical industry, research institutions, academia, regulatory agencies, and even entrepreneurship. This versatility allows pharmacists to explore different areas of interest and find a niche that aligns with their passions. Skills can be acquired and used in many other fields. A passion for research can transition into pharmaceutical industry roles or pursue careers in academia. Their expertise in drug mechanisms, pharmacokinetics, and clinical trials can be valuable in developing new medications or contributing to research advancements. Pharmacists possess a deep understanding of drug regulations and safety standards. This knowledge can be leveraged in roles related to regulatory affairs, where they ensure compliance with regulatory guidelines, assess drug safety profiles, and contribute to drug approvals. With their comprehensive understanding of medication management and healthcare systems, pharmacists can pursue careers in healthcare administration. They can work in roles such as medication management specialists, pharmacy directors, or healthcare consultants, where they apply their knowledge to improve medication use processes and enhance patient outcomes. It's such a broad and important field to be in, and I want to be a part of that and accept the challenges that come with it. It will bring me happiness because I want to create compounds that are effective and have the least side-effects. I've seen what taking medications at 8+ pills looks like and the horrible side effects that these drugs have.

College, much like all things, is for some people and not for others. The requirements might simply be too much, the effort required for the work is a high hurdle, and the financial responsibility is too great a burden. That said, college or university is full of unique and great opportunities for those it speaks to, to be able to expand their horizons within the melting pot of knowledge from people around the world. Everyone must find their pathway to carve out, as that is what fits them to perfection. Some will excel in college, and others excel in their trades or ideas. My most exciting experience is working within my universities laboratories, delving into the biology of microworld and how they continue to influence. It is fascinating how we know more about the world beyond our own, yet not how life is 100% built for an organism to thrive. College often marks a transition into adulthood, offering newfound independence and the chance to develop essential life skills. This period of self-discovery, where individuals have the freedom to make their own choices and explore their interests, can be exhilarating. My freedom is the curiosity about how we came to be, and how all these cells and mechanisms drive us to be functioning as a collective instead of an individual. Working with living parasites has been an experience I will remember for the rest of my life, and I plan to continue that onwards in graduate school. The giardia parasite is what I worked with the majority of the time, as I've personally seen it affect 10,000 cattle close to New Mexico firsthand, they could not eat and were in the process of dehydrating themselves with continuous use of the restroom. It also commonly affects people in the US, mostly in rural areas without a major water treatment facility. The difficulties of being in college cannot be understated but also mostly individual difficulties. In my case, I prioritize effective time management to balance my academic commitments, extracurricular activities, and personal life. I set realistic goals, create schedules, and prioritize tasks to reduce stress and maintain a healthy balance. I cut off work and school work within reason, to disconnect myself from constant "work-mode", and draw a line for others' expectations. I will dedicate my life to work but will work to live happily. Additionally, taking care of my physical and mental well-being is crucial. I make sure to prioritize sleep, eat balanced meals, and engage in regular exercise. I practice relaxation techniques like meditation, and deep breathing exercises, or engage in hobbies like reading novels or playing video games that bring me joy to reduce stress and improve my overall well-being. Lastly, I strive to strike a balance between my academic pursuits and personal interests. I make time for activities I enjoy, such as hobbies, socializing, or engaging in creative outlets. Finding a healthy balance helps prevent burnout and enhances my overall college experience. Burnout is real with anything, and sometimes you need a break from it. All of these, are crucial for a healthy body, mind and soul.

My name is Edward Trejo, and I'm 24 years old and from El Paso, Texas. Being from one of the country's largest border cities and having one of the greatest Hispanic populations. My father is originally from Juarez, Mexico, and my mother is from Georgia State. I adore reading literature from many sources, such as books, journals, and so on. I also have a strong interest in science, notably biochemistry, and knowing how life works fascinates me. I have unique problems, such as my unilateral deafness on my left side from birth and my tiny red blood cell size. Loud noises and vigorous activities have physically tested me since the time I became aware of myself. However, it hasn't kept me down from my long walks and short sprints daily. I continue to live my life as fully as possible without letting disabilities keep me down. In my educational pursuits, I first started in a 4-year program of Pre-engineering in high school, followed by one year of Electrical Engineering at the University of Texas at El Paso. I switched from engineering, however, to biochemistry my major instead. Coming this Spring 2023, rather quite soon, I will be graduating with a BS in Cellular and Molecular Biochemistry with Honors. My education however is not done yet, as I have been accepted into a doctorate program in Pharmacy starting in Fall 2023. I'm quite excited to start my career as a Pharmacist and likely afterward to join academic research, once I'm satisfied with clinical experience. Over the course of my life, I want to eventually become a top authority in the field of pharmaceuticals, leading to cheaper and more effective drug therapies and treatments as the field advances. For my local community, I participated in volunteer work with the University early on, during my freshman year as I knew what I wanted to do with my life after witnessing the effects of narcotic abuse here. Being the major port of entry for illegal drugs and the lasting effects they cause on users and their families is heartbreaking. Free local checkups and local food drives have been the two main activities I have participated in. Once I get my license, I fully intend to give back in the form of hosting sessions for public drug information and collaborating with practicing mds. My major accomplishments are certainly more personal however I believe it has merit. As I mentioned earlier, I am graduating with honors (>3.5 GPA) and worked in my last two semesters in one of my professors' labs studying giardia lamblia and the development of non-toxic and non-resistant drug combinations for both uses in humans and animals. The paper is still under review and going through revisions at the current time. Graduate school will not be cheap, and I have outstanding debts already with federal loans. In the case, I can save some money from repayment I would do a few things. I would save for the future: Putting the extra money into a savings account/emergency fund for any foreseeable accidents. Additionally, I would plan for long-term goals like purchasing a house or plan for ahead in retirement. Paying off other debt faster is a more likely option to be debt-free as soon as possible to save on interest payments. Lastly, I would like to use the money to do some activities with my family such as a small trip or donate it locally here. Thank you for reading my short biography and I hope that you and your family have continued great health!

Being in University has been an experience I can not forget, from the variety of people and professions you meet and learn about. I focused my undergraduate degree to be in biochemistry because life and its complexity of it, is a true wonder, just as gazing up into the night sky or diving down into the depths. There is a world of wonder in every facet of our lives, even as something we take for granted nowadays. Built upon generations of work, we ourselves will pass on the future humanity for the cycle to continue. I wasn't born with the most ideal of health conditions, as I cannot hear from my left side, have chronic asthma, and have smaller than normal blood cells. Still, I'm here and I will continue to be here for a few decades more but I want to leave behind a life I can be proud of and to make it worth something to me. I still have my own interests, reading novels, journals and more. Being fascinated by animation, and the art techniques behind it. Admiring those who take the hard path to support themselves and their loved ones. I'm certainly not a creative person, but a more introverted logician trying to understand how myself and others especially. I always want to view things rationally but we are emotional beings and that has been a struggle for me. I was taught to respect others and be kind, and it has stuck with me, as I don't enjoy fighting either verbally or physically. I would rather talk about things calmly. I've always been someone others tend to ask for help, and I've usually agreed especially academically in that aspect. I enjoy the satisfaction of positive outcomes occur from those interactions, even from simply holding open a door for someone. I want to help in another way for the greater community. My pursuit in a job in pharmaceuticals. As a person pursuing a PharmD degree, there are various ways to give back to the community. Firstly, I can volunteer my time and expertise to provide healthcare services to underserved populations. Many communities lack access to healthcare services, and as a PharmD student, you can offer your skills to address this gap. You can join local free clinics or community health organizations to provide medication therapy management, health education, and screening services to low-income and uninsured patients. This can significantly improve health outcomes and reduce healthcare costs in the community. Secondly, you can participate in health promotion and disease prevention campaigns. As a future pharmacist, I can play an essential role in raising awareness about chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease. I can work with local health departments, schools, and community organizations to organize health fairs, seminars, and workshops to educate the public on preventive measures, healthy lifestyle choices, and proper medication use. This can help reduce the incidence of preventable diseases and improve the quality of life of community members. Seeing people around you pass away from overdoses and preventable conditions has always made me sad. If I can help the others around me, then I gladly will till my own life is over.

Having witnessed real overdoses in person, I want to become a person for others to seek consolation with. Becoming a pharmacist allows me to monitor what people take and how they get through their issue without worry. I want to be a resource for others, and someone who can guide others in my career pursuit.