My motivation for pursuing higher education comes from both my life experiences and my desire to grow within healthcare. I often describe my life as a tale of two different versions of myself, consisting of my early years in Haiti and then being adopted into a new environment in Maine. Although I do not remember much from my early childhood, I know I came from a background with limited resources. Being given the opportunity to grow up in the United States made me realize early on that I needed to take full advantage of the open doors that came my way. Growing up as a Haitian American adoptee in a predominantly white community taught me resilience and adaptability. My mother, who raised seven children as a single parent, played a major role in shaping my mindset. She worked multiple jobs while earning her master’s degree in social work, and watching her push through those challenges showed me that education is not just about personal success, but also about creating opportunities to help others. My path to higher education was not straightforward. After high school, I struggled with direction while dealing with my father’s incarceration. During that time, I had to reflect on the kind of person I wanted to become. I developed discipline, accountability, and a clearer sense of purpose. That process eventually led me to healthcare, where I found passion working with and supporting patients and their healthcare needs. I began working in a hospital and later became a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA). Through my work in skilled nursing facilities and home health, I had the opportunity to care for patients with diverse medical and social needs. Treating patients in their homes gave me a deeper understanding of the barriers many people face, such as transportation issues, financial limitations, and difficulty accessing consistent care. These experiences motivated me to pursue a Physician Assistant (PA) career so I can take on a greater role in addressing these challenges to help improve patient outcomes. Pursuing a PA degree has come with significant financial obligations, including tuition, educational materials, and living expenses. As a married student, managing these costs can be challenging. My wife and I are currently living on a single household income while she works two jobs to support my goals of becoming a PA. Although it has been challenging to make ends meet at times, we continue to push forward. This scholarship would help reduce some financial burdens and allow me to focus more on my academic and clinical training. My goal is to care for underserved communities, advocate for equitable healthcare, and help reduce disparities in access to care. With this support, I will be better positioned to complete my education and continue my journey toward becoming a compassionate, culturally competent PA.

I believe and Impactful PA leads with empathy, moral integrity, effective communication, compassion for cultural differences, and a commitment to help reduce healthcare disparities. A PA has the opportunity to meet patients at some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives, and the care they provide must go beyond diagnosis and treatment. It must include trust-building, respect, and an understanding of the barriers patients face both inside and outside the healthcare system. My healthcare journey, shaped by adoption, personal hardship, and years of patient care experience has prepared me to embody these attributes and serve with purpose. As a Haitian American adoptee, growing up as a Black child in a predominantly white community taught me early the importance of cultural humility and the need to understand perspectives different from my own. It also made me aware of how easily people can feel unseen when they do not feel represented. This shaped the way I connect with patients, especially those who feel overlooked or unheard in medical settings. In 2005, I began a relentless fifteen-year pursuit to locate my biological family. I discovered that I am one of six brothers living across multiple countries and cultures. Rebuilding those relationships required patience, empathy, and clear communication, especially because language differences often made it difficult to fully express ourselves or understand one another. Recognizing how easily people can feel disconnected when communication is limited, I became intentional about learning Spanish, not only to strengthen my connection with my family, but also to better serve patients from diverse backgrounds. This experience has reinforced for me that honoring cultural differences and improving communication are essential to delivering respectful, effective care. As a dedicated member of my church’s outreach program, I have always felt strongly about upholding moral integrity through service. Because of this commitment, I volunteered at local food pantries, helped manage a mobile shower unit, and drove a food truck that delivered meals to individuals facing homelessness and food insecurity. Showing up consistently for people who are often overlooked reinforced my belief that integrity means doing what is right, even when no one is watching. These experiences add value to me as an impactful future PA because they have strengthened my ability to serve with humility, protect patient dignity, and advocate for individuals facing social barriers that directly affect their health and access to care. Prior to PA school, I worked as a home health Physical Therapist Assistant, primarily serving patients in underserved communities. In this role, I contributed to care plan development, and guided patients through therapeutic exercise programs to improve function and independence. Providing care in patients’ homes gave me a firsthand understanding of the healthcare disparities many people face, including limited transportation, financial constraints, low health literacy, and delayed access to follow-up care. These visits strengthened my commitment to reducing healthcare disparities by meeting patients where they are, building trust through consistent support, and delivering compassionate, individualized care despite the barriers they encounter. With my lived experiences and years of patient-centered care, I am ready to step into the PA role and serve with compassion, professionalism, and a lifelong commitment to equity in healthcare.

I have learned that life is not measured by setbacks or obstacles, but by the perseverance required to move through them. To me, perseverance is meeting challenges head on, learning from disappointment, and choosing to keep moving forward with faith and determination. My story began in Haiti, where my earliest years were marked by hardship before I was adopted into a family in Maine. Growing up in a predominantly white community, I learned resilience through difference and strength through family values. My mother, who raised seven children while earning her master’s degree in social work, became my first role model. Watching her balance sacrifice with ambition showed me that growth and education were worth pursuing, no matter how difficult the path. After high school, I faced academic and personal struggles. My father’s incarceration weighed heavily on me, and I left college in 2005 with a 1.6 GPA, uncertain about my future. In 2010, I chose to enroll back to school in a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program at a community college. Earning my first degree at 28 years old and serving as PTA club president revealed my ability to lead, support, and inspire others. It was the first true turning point in my journey. With the support of mentors and colleagues, I made the decision to further my education and strengthen my role in healthcare. Returning to school in 2017, I completed my bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science. This accomplishment marked both academic and personal growth, showing me that age is no barrier and that determination can transform obstacles into opportunity. Now at 41 years old, I have begun a master’s program with the determination to fulfill my dream of becoming a Physician Assistant (PA). My nontraditional path has shaped me with values of perseverance, humility, and service. From caring for patients in skilled nursing facilities to volunteering with underserved populations, I have seen firsthand how compassionate, competent care can transform lives. These experiences remind me that my pursuit of this profession is not about advancing a career, but about serving with purpose and leaving a positive impact on every patient I meet. My vision as a PA is to address healthcare disparities, particularly for underserved communities. Coming from a Haitian background where resources and healthcare are scarce, I have a personal commitment to ensuring that patients from diverse backgrounds receive equitable, empathetic, and effective care. I want to provide a safe space for patients, one where they feel seen, understood, and respected, regardless of their socioeconomic or cultural backgrounds. I envision a practice where patient education is central, empowering individuals to take an active role in their health. My volunteer work, which has included driving mobile shower units, food distribution, and serving meals to underserved populations through my church, has further reinforced my commitment to making a difference and my readiness to serve as a PA. Perseverance and faith have been the anchors of my journey. I have managed to overcome adversity through my adoption, education, and mentorship and feel a responsibility to give back. I aspire one day to contribute to scholarship programs like this one, offering others the same opportunities I have been given. This scholarship will help relieve the financial strain of graduate school, giving me the opportunity to dedicate myself fully to my education and growth as a future healthcare provider. With this support, I can focus on becoming a well-rounded PA, prepared to serve my community with compassion, skill, and empathy.

Life is not defined by material wealth or the pursuit of status, but by the perseverance it takes to grow, overcome challenges, and make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. For me, perseverance means facing setbacks head-on, rising after disappointment, and continuing forward with determination and purpose. My story begins in Haiti, where my earliest years were marked by hardship and poverty. Memories that are now vague due to the trauma of those times. At the age of five, I was adopted by a family in Maine, becoming the second youngest of six children. Growing up in Maine, I experienced both the warmth of a close-knit family and the challenges of being one of the few people of color in a predominantly white community. These early experiences taught me resilience and the importance of embracing diversity, even when it’s not reflected in my environment. My mother, a single parent following her divorce, exemplified success through her unwavering determination and strength. She raised seven children while working as a waitress and earning her master’s degree in social work. Her sacrifices and perseverance became my blueprint for success, showing me that success it isn’t about material wealth but about grit, self-education, and a commitment to bettering oneself and others. Watching her navigate life’s obstacles inspired me to believe that success is attainable for anyone willing to put in the effort and embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. After finishing high school, I struggled to find my identity and purpose while also dealing with the hardship of my father's incarceration causing me to drop out of college between 2004 and 2005 with a 1.6 GPA. Though painful, these experiences became a source of growth, teaching me to face disappointment with resilience, embrace forgiveness, and rebuild my relationship with my father through reconciliation. A pivotal moment in my life came in late 2005 when, with my father's support, I began a relentless 15-year pursuit to locate my biological family. I discovered I was one of six brothers, with the three eldest staying in Haiti and the three youngest, myself included, being adopted. I connected with the three oldest and eagerly sought to find the other two. I used the 23 & Me DNA kit and social media to locate my younger brothers. Discovering my brothers sparked a renewed sense of purpose and inspired me to align my personal aspirations with career goals. My breakthrough in healthcare began in 2007, where I began my journey at Southern Maine Medical Center shredding medical records to complete my 200 hours of community service. Once completed, I was hired as a prep cook and eventually transitioning to a role as a radiology transporter. Interacting with patients in this capacity sparked a passion for healthcare, and in 2010, I enrolled in a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program and was named class president until graduation in 2012. As class president of the PTA club, I developed leadership skills and fostered a collaborative environment to support my peers. During my clinical rotation I met my co-worker Mario, an Athletic trainer. He would later become a major catalyst in my decision to continue my drive for higher education. After passing my boards, I took a traveling position in Texas. I completed three contract assignments in ten months before accepting a full-time position in Baltimore Maryland. The PTA position was at a multidisciplinary skilled nursing facility, and I worked closely with nurses, occupational therapists and speech therapists to coordinate care for each patient on my caseload. In 2016, Mario contacted me to reconnect and said he was accepted into Physician Assistant (PA) school. He explained the duties of a PA within their scope of practice. Mario was now, not only my old work colleague, but my mentor and advisor toward getting into the PA program and I knew I had work to do. I returned to school in 2017 and, by 2019, earned a bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science. After completing the prerequisite courses, I felt prepared to apply to local PA programs in Maryland. However, because of my earlier academic struggles, my overall GPA fell short of admission standards, and I faced multiple rejections. Although the experience left me feeling defeated and discouraged, I refused to give up. Determined to prove myself, I enrolled in community colleges to complete additional science courses and strengthen my GPA. That persistence paid off when I was accepted into Towson’s PA program in 2024 with a June 2025 start date. My vision as a PA is to address healthcare disparities, particularly for underserved communities. Coming from a Haitian background where resources and healthcare are scarce, I have a personal commitment to ensuring that patients from diverse backgrounds receive equitable, empathetic, and effective care. I want to provide a safe space for patients, one where they feel seen, understood, and respected, regardless of their socioeconomic or cultural backgrounds. I envision a practice where patient education is central, empowering individuals to take an active role in their health. My volunteer work, which has included driving mobile shower units, food distribution, and serving meals to underserved populations through my church, has further reinforced my commitment to making a difference and my readiness to serve as a PA. Through my perseverance and faith, I have managed to overcome adversity, reconnect with my biological family and value my nontraditional journey to become a PA. As someone who has benefited from the generosity and support of others through my adoption, education, and mentorship, I feel a deep responsibility to give back in a significant way. I aspire to one day contribute to scholarship programs like this one to help others pursue their dreams just as I have been given the opportunity to do. By investing in future generations, I strive to create a lasting impact that reaches beyond my own career. Becoming a PA will not only transform my life but also positively influence countless patients, colleagues, and aspiring healthcare providers.

As someone who has benefited from the generosity and support of others through adoption, education, and mentorship, I’ve always felt a deep responsibility to give back. My leadership journey began in 2012, serving as class president during my Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) program. Throughout that time, I organized study groups, supported classmates through academic and clinical challenges, and initiated fundraisers to help raise money for graduation events. This experience taught me how to unite people toward a common goal, a skill I’ve carried with me into every chapter of my career. As a frequent member of my church, I serve as a site team leader for their “Second Saturday Serve” initiative. This church-wide outreach program occurs monthly, with each campus partnering with local organizations to meet the tangible needs of their surrounding communities. As a site lead, I help coordinate outreach efforts, facilitate communication with community partners, and ensure that volunteers are effectively serving in a meaningful and compassionate way. This role has allowed me to lead by example, foster community engagement, and empower others to be part of considerable change. Beyond meeting physical needs, these monthly events create a space for connection, network, and shared purpose, reinforcing the power of collective action. In addition, from May 2023 to March 2024, to help directly address the needs of underserved communities. My involvement included volunteering at a food pantry, managing a Mobile Shower Unit, and driving a food truck to serve hot meals to individuals experiencing homelessness and food insecurity. Professionally, I work as a home health physical therapist assistant, primarily working with patients in underserved areas. My responsibilities include monitoring vital signs, developing care plans, and guiding patients through therapeutic exercise programs. I apply a range of treatment modalities, from gait training to thermal and electrical therapies, to improve mobility, reduce pain, and enhance quality of life. These in-home visits allow me to build relationships with patients while addressing the unique barriers they face in accessing quality care. Through my church, the logistical challenges of organizing multiple volunteers, ensuring safe service delivery, and maintaining consistency each month were at times problematic, especially when community needs were high and volunteer numbers were low. I learned how to communicate clearly, adapt quickly, and motivate others not just to serve, but to serve with compassion and purpose. In every role, I have applied and strengthened my leadership, communication, and advocacy skills. As a future Physician Assistant, I will carry these same values into every clinical encounter. I intend to work in community-based settings where I can continue speaking out for equitable care, especially for underserved populations. Through these combined experiences, helping others has shown me the positive impact of service. They’ve taught me that care requires empathy, consistency, and an unwavering commitment to equity. Whether it’s organizing study groups, serving food, or providing therapy, I’ve learned that no act of service is too small to make a difference. My work has been both humbling and rewarding, strengthening my belief that everyone deserves compassion, opportunity, and the chance to thrive.

What I want to build is a bridge—between the world I came from and the one I now live in, between patients and providers, and between underserved communities and the quality healthcare they deserve. I am committed to connection, compassion, and culturally competent care. As a Haitian American adoptee raised in Maine, I have experienced life in two vastly different worlds. Now, I am working to build something that can unify those experiences and transform them into meaningful impact. My vision is to build a healthcare career rooted in empathy, representation, and service. I want to become a Physician Associate (PA) not only to expand my clinical capabilities but to create a platform through which I can advocate for people who feel unseen and those struggling with limited access to care. My own search for identity led me on a 15-year journey to reconnect with my biological family. That journey taught me patience, persistence, and the importance of human connection in qualities I bring to every patient interaction. I also want to build a stronger culture of mentorship within the healthcare field. As a PTA, I’ve already led study groups, served as class president, and supported my peers through academic and clinical challenges. In the future, I want to mentor students of color who are pursuing healthcare careers. Representation matters and it builds confidence, breaks down barriers, and inspires the next generation. What I hope to build will benefit not only myself but also my patients, colleagues, and community. In return, it will empower patients through education, offer compassion in moments of vulnerability, and show aspiring healthcare providers that they, too, belong in this field. Becoming a PA will provide the knowledge and skills I need to practice medicine at a higher level and serve more comprehensively. But more than that, it will shape me into the provider I want to be.

I am a Haitian American who was adopted at the age of five and raised in Maine as the third youngest of seven children. Growing up in a predominantly white community, I often struggled with identity and belonging. These early experiences taught me the value of resilience, empathy, and cultural awareness. My journey has been shaped by the contrast between my life in Haiti and my upbringing in the United States, inspiring me to seek ways to bridge cultural and healthcare gaps in underserved communities. My mother, a single parent who worked as a waitress while earning her master’s degree in social work, modeled determination and perseverance. Her unwavering commitment to caring for our large family instilled in me the importance of education and service. When my father was incarcerated, I was forced to confront personal pain and confusion. Over time, I learned the power of forgiveness and used this adversity as a catalyst for growth and healing. These life challenges strengthened my character and deepened my compassion for others. In 2007, I began working in a hospital as a prep cook and later as a radiology transporter. These early roles gave me valuable exposure to patient care and ignited my passion for healthcare. Encouraged by mentors, I pursued a degree in a STEM field as a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) in 2012, serving as class president and leading study groups to support my peers. In my clinical and professional experiences, especially in home health care, I developed strong communication and clinical skills while gaining autonomy in patient care. I particularly enjoyed performing wound care, monitoring vitals, and educating patients on recovery. A pivotal chapter in my life was the 15-year search for my biological family. With my father’s support, I discovered I was one of six brothers and eventually reconnected with all of them. This journey of self-discovery not only reunited me with my roots but also reaffirmed my commitment to helping others heal and connect. These experiences inspired me to pursue the path of becoming a Physician Associate (PA), a role that aligns with my desire to provide holistic, compassionate, and culturally competent care. I have demonstrated leadership and service in various settings—from organizing study groups as PTA class president to volunteering at food pantries, managing a mobile shower unit for the homeless, and serving meals out of a food truck through an outreach program with my church. These activities reflect my core values of service, humility, and community engagement. The PA program will equip me with the advanced medical knowledge and clinical training needed to expand my scope of practice and serve more effectively. It will prepare me to address health disparities and advocate for underrepresented communities. My goal is to work in community-based settings where I can mentor aspiring healthcare professionals and promote patient education. My goal is to bridge disparity gaps in healthcare by providing compassionate, comprehensive care to increase greater representation within the growing PA field. I am committed to being a positive force for change, not only by improving patient outcomes but also by paving the way for future generations of diverse STEM professionals. Through dedication, empathy, and advocacy, I aim to leave a lasting impact on the STEM field and the communities I serve.

My journey to a healthcare career has been shaped by resilience, identity, and a desire to serve others. Born in Haiti and adopted at the age of five, I came to the United States, where I was raised in Maine as the second youngest of seven children. My adoption opened doors that have allowed me to grow, learn, and eventually reconnect with my biological family. As a Haitian American living in a predominantly white community, I faced the challenges of cultural isolation and the search for identity. These experiences have instilled in me a sense of empathy and a commitment to bridging cultural and healthcare gaps. Life presented many challenges early on. My parents divorced when I was 14, and my mother, determined to support all seven of us, went back to school and worked as a waitress before earning her master’s degree in social work. Her perseverance inspired me to push through adversity and develop a strong work ethic. After finishing high school, I struggled to find my identity and purpose while also dealing with the hardship of my father's incarceration, causing me to drop out of college. After some time, I used this difficult situation as an opportunity to reflect and grow, ultimately learning to forgive and mend my relationship with my father. A pivotal moment in my life came in 2005 when, with my father's support, I began a relentless pursuit to locate my biological family. I discovered I was one of six brothers, with the three eldest staying in Haiti and the three youngest, myself included, being adopted. I connected with the three oldest and eagerly sought to find the other two. I used the 23 & Me DNA kit and social media to locate my younger brothers. It took fifteen years of searching to find my first life. Discovering my brothers sparked a renewed sense of purpose and inspired me to align my personal aspirations with career goals. In 2007, I began my journey in a hospital setting, shredding medical records to complete my 200 hours of community service at Southern Maine Medical Center. That led to working as a prep cook and eventually transitioning into a role as a radiology transporter. Those experiences inspired me to go back to school to pursue an Associate's degree in Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA), followed by a Bachelor's degree in Exercise Science, and eventually gaining acceptance into a Physician Assistant (PA) Program. As a PA, I aim to advocate for more inclusive, patient-centered approaches that recognize and respect diverse backgrounds and experiences. I believe that building trust and communication between healthcare providers and patients is essential, particularly in underserved communities. I plan to use my position to mentor aspiring healthcare professionals from underrepresented backgrounds and encourage them to pursue careers in healthcare. By sharing my story and experiences, I hope to remove stereotypes and demonstrate that men of color belong and can thrive in this lucrative field. Through dedication, empathy, and advocacy, I am committed to being a positive force for change, not only by improving patient outcomes but also by paving the way for future generations of diverse healthcare professionals.

I have really lived 2 lives. Until the age of 5, I lived in Haiti with my biological family. Due to the trauma, I do not remember much of the hardship and poverty there. In 1990, I was adopted by a loving family who lived in Maine and am the third youngest of 7 children. When I think about Maine, I think about my close relationship with my adopted Indian sister, long winters and the lack of diversity. My parents divorced when I was 14 years old and after their separation, my mom went back to school and waited on tables until she received her master's degree in social work. We were not rich, but my mom was determined to take care of all seven of us as best she could. Her hard work and perseverance through tough times set an example that I relied on during times of adversity. It took me until adulthood to appreciate the power and value of academic learning. After finishing high school, I struggled to find my identity and purpose while also dealing with the hardship of my father's incarceration causing me to drop out of college. After some time, I used this difficult situation as an opportunity to reflect and grow, ultimately learning to forgive and mend my relationship with my father. A pivotal moment in my life came in 2005 when, with my father's support, I began a relentless pursuit to locate my biological family. I discovered I was one of six brothers, with the three eldest staying in Haiti and the three youngest, myself included, being adopted. I connected with the three oldest and eagerly sought to find the other two. I used the 23 & Me DNA kit and social media to locate my younger brothers. It took fifteen years of searching to find my first life. Discovering my brothers sparked a renewed sense of purpose and inspired me to align my personal aspirations with my career goals. In 2007, I began my journey in the medical field shredding patient medical records to complete my 200 hours of community service at Southern Maine Medical Center. That lead to working as a prep cook and eventually transitioning into a role as a radiology transporter. As a transporter, my responsibilities were to transport patients from the ER to the X-ray department. After working for two years, I decided to return to school and pursue a degree as an X-ray technician. However, my co-worker, who had experience as a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) changed my mind. I enrolled in the PTA program in 2010 and was named class president of the PTA club until graduation in 2012. During my clinical rotation, I met my co-worker Mario, an athletic trainer. He would later become a significant catalyst in my decision to become a PA. After passing my boards, I took a traveling position in Texas. I completed three contract assignments in ten months before accepting a full-time position in Baltimore. The PTA position was at a multidisciplinary skilled nursing facility and I worked closely with nurses, occupational therapists and speech therapists to coordinate care for each patient on my caseload. In 2016, Mario contacted me to reconnect and said he was accepted to PA school. He explained the duties of a PA within their scope of practice. Mario was now, not only my old work colleague but my mentor and advisor toward getting into the PA program. I decided to venture into the home health industry which provided the autonomy that I was craving. I felt a sense of independence, flexibility and responsibility when treating my patients in their homes. I was now able to remove staples from surgical procedures, take and monitor vital signs, and perform minor wound care management. This new addition to my professional career was necessary to become a more well-rounded therapist. One of the most rewarding aspects of my career as a medical professional has been empowering patients to overcome their challenges and achieve their goals. Whether coordinating care as part of a multidisciplinary team or providing one-on-one treatment in patients’ homes, I have always strived to be a source of encouragement and support. I am interested in becoming a PA because I have not yet reached my potential as a medical professional and know I have more to offer to the growing field. The PA profession aligns perfectly with my vision of success, as it combines the autonomy I have enjoyed throughout my career as a PTA with the ability to provide comprehensive care to diverse populations. As a PA, I intend to advocate for more inclusive, patient-centered approaches that recognize and respect diverse backgrounds and experiences. I believe that building trust and communication between healthcare providers and patients is essential, particularly in underserved communities. According to the NCCPA, in 2022 59.9% of certified PA’s were white women and only 1.1% were black men. As a future PA, I plan to use my position to mentor aspiring healthcare professionals from underrepresented backgrounds and encourage them to pursue careers in healthcare. By sharing my story and experiences, I hope to remove stereotypes and demonstrate that men of color belong and can thrive in this lucrative field. This scholarship opportunity will help me achieve success, enabling me to further my education and pursue my goal of becoming a PA by alleviating the financial burden of PA school, and allowing me to focus on my studies without the added stress of financial constraints. More importantly, it represents an investment in my ability to give back. As someone who has benefited from the generosity and support of others—through my adoption, education, and mentorship—I feel a deep responsibility to pay it forward. I aspire to one day contribute to scholarship programs like this one to help others pursue their dreams just as I have been given the opportunity to do. By investing in future generations, I strive to create a lasting impact that reaches beyond my own career. Through my perseverance and faith, God has placed inspiring medical professionals in my life and opened doors I never thought were possible fifteen years ago. Because of this, I successfully gained admission to one of my top choice programs at Towson University’s Physician Assistant program. Becoming a PA will not only transform my life but also positively influence countless patients, colleagues, and aspiring healthcare providers.

There’s nothing more embarrassing than having your name mispronounced on the overhead loudspeaker to go to the principal’s office in high school. I remember removing myself from the classroom to begin the walk of shame through the long hallways to the main office in front of my white peers. I had been attending high school for three years, and you’d think the administration would have the decency to ask how I pronounce my name. Unfortunately, this was a common experience. As a Haitian American who was adopted and raised in Maine, I understand firsthand the challenges of navigating spaces where people of color are underrepresented. Throughout my life, I have encountered environments lacking diversity, but these experiences only influenced my determination to break barriers and contribute to the STEM field. I hope to be a source of representation and inspiration for others from marginalized communities who may not see themselves reflected in the healthcare profession. My journey to reconnect with my biological family, combined with my personal and professional experiences, has given me a unique perspective on the importance of empathy and cultural competency in patient care. I have chosen to pursue a degree in STEM because it aligns with my lifelong curiosity about the human body, my commitment to continuous learning, and my desire to make a meaningful impact on people’s lives. My professional journey in healthcare has shown me the important role science and technology play in improving patient outcomes and creating a better quality of life. Working as a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) for over a decade has provided me with a hands-on understanding of the importance of providing adequate patient care, which is why I intend to expand my scope of practice by becoming a Physician Associate (PA). This next step represents not just a career progression but a commitment to addressing healthcare disparities and improving patient access to quality care. In the STEM field, I aim to advocate for more inclusive, patient-centered approaches that recognize and respect diverse backgrounds and experiences. I believe that building trust and communication between healthcare providers and patients is essential, particularly in underserved communities. According to the NCCPA, in 2022 59.9% of certified PA’s were white women and only 1.1% were black men. As a future PA, I plan to use my position to mentor aspiring healthcare professionals from underrepresented backgrounds and encourage them to pursue careers in STEM. By sharing my story and experiences, I hope to remove stereotypes and demonstrate that men of color belong and can thrive in this lucrative field. My goal is to bridge disparity gaps in healthcare by providing compassionate, comprehensive care to increase representation within the growing PA field. I am committed to being a positive force for change, not only by improving patient outcomes but also by paving the way for future generations of diverse STEM professionals. Through dedication, empathy, and advocacy, I aim to leave a lasting impact on the STEM field and the communities I serve.

I feel as though I have lived two lives. I spent my early childhood in Haiti with my biological family, facing poverty and hardship that I don’t fully remember due to the trauma. In 1990, at the age of five, I was adopted by a loving family in Maine, becoming the third youngest of seven children. Growing up in Maine meant long winters, a close relationship with my adopted Indian sister, and the challenge of navigating a predominantly white community with little diversity. My parents divorced when I was 14, which was a turning point in our family. My mom went back to school while working as a waitress, eventually earning a master’s in social work to provide for us. Though we had little, her hard work and perseverance set an example I’ve relied on during times of adversity. After high school, I struggled to find my purpose, facing both the difficulty of my father’s incarceration and my own uncertainty. This difficult period however, led me to reflect and grow, teaching me valuable lessons about forgiveness, resilience, and my own path forward. In 2005, with my father’s encouragement, I started searching for my biological family. After connecting with three older brothers who stayed in Haiti, I set out to find my two younger brothers, who had also been adopted. Using a combination of 23andMe and social media, I eventually located both of them. It took fifteen years to reconnect with my roots, but this discovery renewed my sense of purpose and drove me to align my personal aspirations with my career. My healthcare journey began as a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA), where I worked in a multidisciplinary setting with nurses, occupational therapists, and speech therapists. This role gave me valuable experience working collaboratively and taught me the importance of communication and compassion in patient care. However, I often felt limited in my ability to diagnose and provide a full scope of care, which inspired me to pursue the PA profession. Guided by a mentor who was also a PA, I realized that becoming a PA would allow me to broaden my clinical skills, take on greater responsibility in patient care, and make a more substantial impact in the communities I serve. My vision as a PA is to address healthcare disparities, particularly for underserved communities. Coming from a background where quality of care was limited for people of color, I have a personal commitment to ensuring that patients from diverse backgrounds receive equitable, empathetic, and effective care. I want to provide a safe space for patients, one where they feel seen, understood, and respected, regardless of their socioeconomic or cultural backgrounds. I envision a practice where patient education is central, empowering individuals to take an active role in their health. My volunteer work, which has included driving mobile shower units, food distribution, and serving meals to underserved populations through my church, has further reinforced my commitment to making a difference and my readiness to serve as a PA. My adoption and reconnection with my Haitian roots have fueled my commitment to healthcare, both professionally and personally. They’ve given me a unique sense of empathy and resilience that I bring into every patient interaction. This scholarship would significantly support my journey by reducing the financial burden, allowing me to focus fully on my studies and clinical training. With less financial pressure, I can dedicate myself to focus on the skills necessary to become a compassionate and capable PA.

Change has been a constant development in my life, and every transition has been an opportunity for growth. From being adopted from Haiti into a new culture to navigating personal and professional challenges, I have learned that success is not about where you start but how you evolve. I want to make a change in my life by becoming a Physician Assistant (PA) because I know I have more to offer to the medical field and the communities I serve. My journey has been shaped by resilience, perseverance, and a deep desire to make a difference in people’s lives, and I believe the PA profession will allow me to fulfill my potential in a meaningful way. To bring myself closer to this goal, I have taken strategic steps to gain experience and expand my knowledge in healthcare. My career in the medical field began with shredding medical records at a local hospital to satisfy my community service hours, which led to working as a prep cook before progressing to patient care as a radiology transporter. Motivated by my interactions with patients and advice from a co-worker, I pursued a career as a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA), earning my degree and serving as class president. Over the past decade, I have worked in various healthcare settings, from skilled nursing facilities to home health, broadening my clinical expertise and deepening my understanding of patient care. Through mentorship and exposure to the PA profession, I achieved my goal by gaining acceptance into Towson University’s PA program which will allow me to advance my career and expand my scope of practice to better serve patients. This scholarship will alleviate the financial burden of PA school, allowing me to focus on my studies without the added stress of financial constraints. More importantly, it represents an investment in my ability to give back. As someone who has benefited from the generosity and support of others—through my adoption, education, and mentorship—I feel a deep responsibility to pay it forward. I plan to give back in multiple ways. First, I want to mentor aspiring healthcare professionals, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, just as I was guided along my journey. Representation matters, and with Black men making up only 1.1% of practicing Physician Assistants (PAs) in 2022, according to the NCCPA, I hope to inspire and support others who may not see themselves reflected in the field. Second, I will use my role as a PA to advocate for and serve underserved communities, both in the U.S. and, one day, in Haiti. Having witnessed the disparities in healthcare access firsthand, I am committed to being part of the solution by providing quality care to those who need it most. Finally, I hope to one day contribute to scholarship programs like this one, helping others pursue their dreams just as I have been given the opportunity to do. By investing in future generations, I aim to create a lasting impact that extends far beyond my career. By becoming a PA, I will not only change my own life but also impact the lives of countless patients, colleagues, and future healthcare providers. This scholarship will be a stepping stone, enabling me to fulfill my purpose and, in turn, empower others to do the same.

Success is not defined by living a luxurious lifestyle or how much money is in your bank account. To me, it is a lifelong journey defined by growth, resilience, and the meaningful contributions we make in the lives of others. While traditional metrics such as academic accolades or professional titles can signify success, I believe true success lies in the pursuit of purpose and the ability to overcome life’s challenges with perseverance and determination. It is about evolving into the best version of oneself and using that growth to positively impact the world. My personal definition of success is deeply rooted in my upbringing. I was born in Haiti, where my earliest years were marked by hardship and poverty—memories that are now vague due to the trauma of those times. At the age of five, I was adopted by a family in Maine, becoming the third youngest of six children. Growing up in Maine, I experienced both the warmth of a close-knit family and the challenges of being one of the few people of color in a predominantly white community. These early experiences taught me resilience and the importance of embracing diversity, even when it’s not reflected in my environment. My mother, a single parent following her divorce, exemplified success through her unwavering determination and strength. She raised seven children while working as a waitress and earning her master’s degree in social work. Her sacrifices and perseverance became my blueprint for success, showing me that it isn’t about material wealth but about grit, self-education, and a commitment to bettering oneself and others. Watching her navigate life’s obstacles inspired me to believe that success is attainable for anyone willing to put in the effort and embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. My journey to discovering my own version of success has been shaped by the pursuit of purpose and the desire to help others. After high school, I struggled to find my identity and direction. The incarceration of my father during this time added another layer of hardship, forcing me to confront and process feelings of disappointment, loss, and forgiveness. I used this adversity as a catalyst for growth, mending my relationship with my father and gaining a deeper understanding of the power of resilience and reconciliation. A pivotal moment in my life came in 2005 when, with my father's support, I began a relentless 15-year pursuit to locate my biological family. I discovered I was one of six brothers, with the three eldest staying in Haiti and the three youngest, myself included, being adopted. I connected with the three oldest and eagerly sought to find the other two. I used the 23 & Me DNA kit and social media to locate my younger brothers. Discovering my brothers sparked a renewed sense of purpose and inspired me to align my personal aspirations with career goals. In 2007, I began my career in healthcare as a prep cook in a hospital, eventually transitioning to a role as a radiology transporter. Interacting with patients in this capacity sparked a passion for healthcare, and in 2010, I enrolled in a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program. As class president of the PTA club, I developed leadership skills and fostered a collaborative environment to support my peers. After graduation, I gained experience in various healthcare settings, including skilled nursing facilities and home health care. These roles allowed me to build meaningful connections with patients and gain hands-on experience that deepened my understanding of the healthcare field. One of the most rewarding aspects of my career as a medical professional has been empowering patients to overcome their challenges and achieve their goals. Whether coordinating care as part of a multidisciplinary team or providing one-on-one treatment in patients’ homes, I have always strived to be a source of encouragement and support. This opportunity will help me achieve success by enabling me to further my education and pursue my goal of becoming a Physician Assistant (PA). The PA profession aligns perfectly with my vision of success, as it combines the autonomy I have enjoyed in my career with the ability to provide comprehensive care to diverse populations. As a PA, I will be able to expand my impact, addressing healthcare disparities and serving underserved communities. My journey has taught me that success is not about a single accomplishment or materialism but about the consistent effort to grow, adapt, and contribute to something greater than oneself. Someday, I hope to return to Haiti to see my biological family and share with my late mother and father that her son has achieved his dream of becoming a Physician Assistant. For me, this will not just mark a personal milestone but also serve as a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and the pursuit of success in all its forms.

I feel as though I have lived two lives. I spent my early childhood in Haiti with my biological family, facing poverty and hardship that I don’t fully remember due to the trauma. In 1990, at the age of five, I was adopted by a loving family in Maine, becoming the third youngest of seven children. Growing up in Maine meant long winters, a close relationship with my adopted Indian sister, and the challenge of navigating a predominantly white community with little diversity. My parents divorced when I was 14, which was a turning point in our family. My mom went back to school while working as a waitress, eventually earning a master’s in social work to provide for us. Though we had little, her hard work and perseverance set an example I’ve relied on during times of adversity. After high school, I struggled to find my purpose, facing both the difficulty of my father’s incarceration and my own uncertainty. This difficult period however, led me to reflect and grow, teaching me valuable lessons about forgiveness, resilience, and my own path forward. In 2005, with my father’s encouragement, I started searching for my biological family. After connecting with three older brothers who stayed in Haiti, I set out to find my two younger brothers, who had also been adopted. Using a combination of 23andMe and social media, I eventually located both of them. It took fifteen years to reconnect with my roots, but this discovery renewed my sense of purpose and drove me to align my personal aspirations with my career. My healthcare journey began as a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA), where I worked in a multidisciplinary setting with nurses, occupational therapists, and speech therapists. This role gave me valuable experience working collaboratively and taught me the importance of communication and compassion in patient care. However, I often felt limited in my ability to diagnose and provide a full scope of care, which inspired me to pursue the PA profession. Guided by a mentor who was also a PA, I realized that becoming a PA would allow me to broaden my clinical skills, take on greater responsibility in patient care, and make a more substantial impact in the communities I serve. My vision as a PA is to address healthcare disparities, particularly for underserved communities. Coming from a background where quality of care was limited for people of color, I have a personal commitment to ensuring that patients from diverse backgrounds receive equitable, empathetic, and effective care. I want to provide a safe space for patients, one where they feel seen, understood, and respected, regardless of their socioeconomic or cultural backgrounds. I envision a practice where patient education is central, empowering individuals to take an active role in their health. My volunteer work, which has included driving mobile shower units, food distribution, and serving meals to underserved populations through my church, has further reinforced my commitment to making a difference and my readiness to serve as a PA. My adoption and reconnection with my Haitian roots have fueled my commitment to healthcare, both professionally and personally. They’ve given me a unique sense of empathy and resilience that I bring into every patient interaction. This scholarship would significantly support my journey by reducing the financial burden, allowing me to focus fully on my studies and clinical training. With less financial pressure, I can dedicate myself to focus on the skills necessary to become a compassionate and capable PA.