I decided to pursue a career in healthcare because of my fascination with the body’s complex systems and how they work together to perform functions. My interest isn’t just in the mechanics of the body, but in the challenges of managing high-stress situations and making rapid, life-altering decisions. During my time volunteering at a hospital, I witnessed firsthand the urgency and critical thinking required in emergency medicine. I’m particularly drawn to pediatrics in the emergency room because of the unique blend of medical expertise and emotional intelligence needed to treat children in trauma situations, as well as their families, who are often overwhelmed by fear and uncertainty. What excites me about this career path is the opportunity to not only provide medical care, but also to learn how to adapt to the unpredictability of pediatric emergency cases. In a high-pressure environment like this, the ability to act quickly, make critical decisions, and maintain a calm, reassuring presence is essential. These qualities are what drew me to emergency medicine in particular. I recognize that treating young patients isn’t just about addressing physical injuries; it’s about understanding their emotional state and that of their families. In addition to my medical education, I aim to refine my communication skills to explain complex medical situations to families in a clear, compassionate manner, especially when they are at their most vulnerable. A unique aspect of pediatric emergency medicine is the unpredictability of the cases and the variety of treatments needed for each child. This is both a challenge and an opportunity for growth. It excites me to think about becoming an expert in handling various pediatric emergencies, from severe allergic reactions to traumatic injuries, while still providing compassionate care. What drives me is knowing that the work I will do could be the difference between life and death for a child, and offering reassurance to a family during such a critical time. In the future, I hope to contribute to the field by staying current with technological advancements in pediatric care, improving communication between medical professionals, and ultimately improving patient outcomes. This scholarship would help me continue my studies and gain the hands-on experience needed to thrive in this challenging, yet incredibly rewarding, field. I also plan to mentor future students in healthcare, passing on my knowledge and experience to those who will follow in my footsteps. This scholarship is more than just a financial opportunity; it is a stepping stone toward becoming a compassionate, skilled pediatrician who can navigate the unpredictable and often heart-wrenching world of emergency medicine.

The Kalia D. Davis Memorial Scholarship resonates deeply with me because it reflects values that I hold close—hard work, kindness, and a commitment to excellence. Kalia’s story of ambition, dedication, and service is one I admire and seek to emulate in my own life. As an athlete who ran cross country and track in high school, I understand the discipline and perseverance required to excel in both sports and academics. I continue to run for fun as a freshman in college, keeping Kalia’s spirit of resilience alive through my personal dedication to both my studies and physical well-being. In high school, I worked hard to maintain my grades while balancing my athletic commitments. I volunteered regularly, helping out with community events and supporting local causes. These experiences taught me the importance of giving back, and I continue to volunteer at my college, both as a student nurse mentee in the trauma unit and assisting in various hospital departments. My time at the hospital has reinforced my passion for healthcare and has shown me the importance of supporting those in need, something that Kalia did through her involvement in the Black Student Union and ROTC. Volunteering has given me the opportunity to connect with patients and their families during some of their most difficult moments, and it’s inspired me to pursue a career where I can continue helping others in meaningful ways. This scholarship would help me continue my education by easing the financial burden of college, allowing me to focus more on my coursework and hospital volunteer work. With a 3.5 GPA, I am committed to excelling in my kinesiology major and pursuing a career in the healthcare field. The scholarship would not only provide financial assistance but also allow me to continue developing the skills needed to serve others with the same kindness, ambition, and work ethic Kalia embodied. It would also give me the opportunity to explore more volunteer opportunities, expanding my knowledge and ability to serve others, much like Kalia did. Kalia’s story has inspired me to approach every aspect of my life with a sense of purpose and an unwavering commitment to doing my best. I would be honored to receive this scholarship and to carry forward her legacy of living, loving, laughing, learning, and leaving a positive impact on the world. This scholarship would allow me to further develop into someone who not only excels in their personal and academic life but also in their ability to make a difference in the lives of others.

Mental health is often an invisible challenge, shaping how we see ourselves and interact with the world. My own experiences have deepened my understanding of resilience, strengthened my relationships and my commitment to a career in medicine. Understanding mental health on a personal level has allowed me to approach life and my future with a greater sense of purpose and empathy. One of the most profound ways mental health has influenced me is through my personal struggle with depression. There were times when even the simplest tasks felt overwhelming, and I questioned my ability to move forward. However, through perseverance, self-reflection, and the support of loved ones, I learned how to navigate these difficult moments. This journey taught me that mental health is just as important as physical health and that healing is not a linear process but a continuous effort toward self-improvement and growth. I came to realize that setbacks are part of the process, and overcoming them requires patience and self-compassion. These experiences have also shaped my relationships, teaching me the value of patience, empathy, and active listening. Depression often feels isolating, but I have learned that connection—whether through small gestures of kindness, shared vulnerability, or simply being present for someone—can be incredibly powerful. Understanding my own struggles has helped me become a more empathetic friend, student, and support system for others facing similar challenges. I’ve seen firsthand how important it is for people to feel seen and understood, and I carry this perspective into all my relationships. As I work toward my goal of becoming a pediatrician, I am aware of the emotional challenges young patients and their families face. I want to be a physician who provides not only expert medical care but also reassurance, compassion, and understanding to those in crisis. Mental health awareness will always be an integral part of how I approach medicine, ensuring that I treat patients not just as cases but as individuals navigating difficult moments in their lives, often in addition to physical illness. Receiving the Mikey Taylor Memorial Scholarship would allow me to carry forward the lessons I have learned through my own mental health journey. With this opportunity, I hope to be an advocate for both physical and emotional well-being, fostering a healthcare environment where patients feel seen, heard, and cared for in every sense of the word. By continuing to learn and grow, I aim to contribute to a more holistic approach to care in medicine.

Throughout my life, I have faced challenges that have shaped my resilience and deepened my understanding of patient care. One of my most overwhelming experiences was seeing my grandmother go through in-home hospice care until she passed away. Witnessing her journey firsthand gave me a deep understanding of caregiving's emotional and physical demands while also empathizing with her every step of the way. I learned to navigate the balance between providing comfort and respecting her dignity, an experience that left a lasting impression on me and drew my desire to pursue a career in emergency medicine. Beyond personal experiences, I have been actively involved in the medical field as a student nurse mentee and a volunteer at my local hospital. These roles exposed me to the realities of patient care, from assisting with basic needs to observing complex medical procedures. One particularly impactful experience was working in the trauma unit, where I primarily assisted with adult patients but also encountered pediatric cases. Seeing patients in critical condition required me to stay composed and focused, especially in high-pressure situations where every second mattered. Observing the teamwork between doctors, nurses, and first responders reinforced my appreciation for the precision and adaptability required in emergency medicine. Witnessing how medical professionals navigated both life-saving procedures and emotional support for families deepened my commitment to pursuing a career in pediatric emergency medicine. I gained insight into the importance of quick decision-making, teamwork, and staying composed under pressure. Working alongside dedicated professionals, I saw how the smallest actions -offering reassurance, maintaining a calm presence, or anticipating a patient's needs- can make a significant impact. These experiences increase my determination to enter the medical field with a mindset focused on precision, adaptability, and compassion. My goal is to become a pediatrician specializing in emergency medicine, where I can provide critical care to children in urgent situations. The fast-paced environment of emergency pediatric care is deeply meaningful to me, as it requires both medical expertise and the ability to connect with young patients and their families in high-stress moments. I believe I thrive in active environments that demand critical thinking, adaptability, and emotional intelligence, all of which are essential in ensuring the best outcomes for children in need and their families. In the future, I hope to take my experience beyond clinical practice by advocating for better pediatric emergency preparedness and healthcare education. My time in the hospital has shown me how a lack of knowledge can contribute to preventable emergencies, and I want to be part of the effort to help people become educated. Whether through community outreach, mentoring aspiring medical professionals, or working to improve accessibility to emergency pediatric care, I am committed to making a meaningful impact. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to continue building the skills necessary to carry forward the legacy of Paramedic Eddie Hankins. His dedication to resilience and service reflects the values I strive to uphold in my journey. I am honored to apply for this opportunity and share my story as I work toward a future in pediatric emergency medicine.