Being a first-generation immigrant in the United States of America has been a blessing coupled with unforeseeable challenges. The opportunity to pursue higher education, something inaccessible to me in Nigeria due to limited resources, was a dream come true. Coming from a low-income family, migrating to the U.S. symbolized hope for a better future for my family and me, particularly my long-held dream of becoming a medical doctor—the first in my immediate family. Growing up in Iwo, Osun State, Nigeria, I witnessed the devastating impact of preventable illnesses such as yellow fever, tuberculosis, and uncontrolled diabetes in my extended family and community at large. These experiences sparked my curiosity about healthcare, but opportunities to explore this interest were scarce. I often questioned why young, vibrant people succumbed to such diseases, but the answers were elusive. Lack of access to timely, adequate healthcare in my community left many untreated or undiagnosed, a reality that shaped my determination to serve underserved populations. Upon arriving in the U.S., I quickly realized the barriers to achieving my dream. Navigating the education system largely on my own was overwhelming, especially as my father, although a college graduate, completed his undergraduate degree just a year before I did. Balancing two part-time jobs to support my family and myself, adjusting to cultural and language differences, managing family challenges, and facing the social struggles of being a minority in the U.S. made college difficult. Without mentors or a strong support system, my GPA fluctuated, and I doubted whether my dream was attainable. Taking gap years after college allowed me to refocus and gain valuable experience working in academia and healthcare. These experiences have reignited my passion and strengthened my commitment to addressing health disparities. Serving underserved communities in Los Angeles, where challenges mirror those I witnessed in Nigeria, has fueled my resolve to pursue medicine to provide care that transcends borders. Currently, I am seeking a master’s degree in medical science to demonstrate my academic dedication and strengthen my preparation for medical school. As the first in my family to pursue a master’s degree and a healthcare career, I face significant financial challenges and the fear of debt. However, my experiences have fostered resilience, and my faith in God has been my guiding force. Despite the obstacles, I remain steadfast in my goal to become a physician and serve communities in need, both in the U.S. and globally.