Growing up, I rarely saw women dominating distinguished professions, and even less so women of color. Being an African American girl, this lack of representation created an unspoken message—that success in certain fields was not meant for people like me. I often found myself searching for role models who looked like me, who had overcome similar challenges, but they were few and far in between. Thus, this sense of invisibility left a lasting impact on me, influencing me to seek out clubs relating to this club in high school. This is why when I found Nerdy Girl Success, a club dedicated to empowering young women, I immediately felt connected to their cause. I joined during 10th grade and by 11th grade I became vice president of the club. Eventually leading me to move up to president in 12th grade. As president, my goal was to continue the club’s mission of empowerment as well as focus on career readiness. I knew from personal experience how crucial it is for young women to see what is possible and to have the tools to break through barriers. I wanted the club to be a place where we not only discussed empowerment but actively practiced it. This was done by hosting events, career summits, and creating opportunities for personal and professional growth. I was tasked with reaching out to women in fields like medicine, law, business, and engineering—industries where women, and especially women of color, are heavily underrepresented. The idea was to offer a platform where these professionals could share their stories, provide guidance, and inspire the next generation of women leaders. Additionally, displaying to young girls that being a woman and climbing up the ladder in any career is possible. Furthermore, I helped host a career summit at my high school, inviting passionate girls from other schools the opportunity to connect with women in distinguished professions. Further, introducing them to the representation we all have yearned for. Ultimately, the women I found also kept in touch with the girls within Nerdy Girl Success, allowing the participants in the club to stay in communication with them on Linked-in, and utilize the women as mentors. As this mentorship continued, I saw a change in perception in how we viewed ourselves. The sense of invisibility we once felt began to fade, replaced by new confidence that we, too, could succeed in spaces where women had historically been underrepresented. The girls in Nerdy Girl Success began to feel more confident, knowing that it was not impossible for women to enter these male-dominant career fields or even climb up the ladder within their occupation. They began exploring different careers they never thought they would have interest in, striving to reach for the top instead of settling for less. Through this journey, I learned that leadership isn’t just about taking charge—it is about creating opportunities for others to grow and thrive. As president of Nerdy Girl Success, I have seen firsthand how mentorship, representation, and empowerment can transform a mindset. Ultimately, the girls in my club and myself now have gained a new understanding of the foggy perception we had when we were young. With this new understanding, we know that we are fully capable of achieving success, no matter the field.

It’s strange how one decision, made so casually in a moment, can echo through your life forever. It was just a regular Saturday evening, and like most 10-year-olds, I was outside playing with friends. That is when my family stepped outside and asked the question I'd remember forever, “Do you want to see your aunt?” My ignorance of being a child showed, and without hesitation I refused. Soon guilt consumed me, but faded when my family returned. My mom reassured me that everything was okay—that my aunt was awake and happy to see them. My aunt even asked where I was, which made me promise myself I’d be there for the next visit. In a couple of days, we went to see my aunt in the ICU. As we drove to the hospital, my mind drifted to countless memories with her. I remembered her infectious smile that could brighten even the darkest days and the nickname she gave me,“fayfay”. My aunt was the string that tied our distant family together, always offering a helping hand, even though she had little. Her home was my second home, a place I begged to go every Friday after school to talk about trivial things—like crushes—that I did not feel comfortable sharing with my mom. She was my rock and always there for me. My aunt may not have had much, but the times we spent together made me forget about monetary value. And those memories filled my mind in the car, unaware of how I would soon rely on them. The next day, my aunt was taken off life support. The offer my parents had made to see her that day was my last chance to see her awake, smiling, and present. And I refused. Over the years, the constant sounds of my cousins' cries and my parents' tears echoed in my mind. I couldn't stop thinking about how my aunt's final thoughts were about where I had been. Inducing the guilt I felt for not being there for her. I was also angry—angry at the doctors who delayed her surgery due to her lack of insurance and angry that a power outage caused her fatal aneurysm. These emotions consumed me, leading to setbacks as I struggled with grief. As time went on, however, through constant prayer, I realized that holding on to these negative feelings was only hurting me. In a world where external challenges are already significant, I knew I could not afford to be my own adversary. My aunt’s passing became a catalyst for growth. I began breaking out of my shell by volunteering, embracing the fulfillment that came from serving others without expecting anything in return. I started helping at my church and in the community, channeling my grief into service—such as creating a water filter as a project to provide clean water solutions using simple materials. Now, in high school, I am the president of Nerdy Girls Success, a club I founded to empower young women. In addition, I am a member of the National Honor Society, Key Club, Neuro Club, and the captain of both the Varsity Track and Field and Flag Football teams—all while working towards my Associates Degree. The unforeseen tragedy of my aunt’s passing has transformed into something positive for me. Through it all, I have learned that setbacks do not define us; it is how we rise from them that truly matters. My aunt’s memory continues to inspire me to live a life that both God and her would be proud of and a life I have realized I have always yearned for.

Growing up, I rarely saw women dominating distinguished professions, and even less so women of color. Being an African American girl, this lack of representation created an unspoken message—that success in certain fields was not meant for people like me. I often found myself searching for role models who looked like me, who had overcome similar challenges, but they were few and far in between. Thus, this sense of invisibility left a lasting impact on me, influencing me to seek out clubs relating to this club in highschool. This is why when I found Nerdy Girl Success, a club dedicated to empowering young women, I immediately felt connected to their cause. I joined during 10th grade and by 11th grade I became vice president of the club. Eventually leading me to move up to president in 12th grade. As president, my goal was to continue the club’s mission of empowerment as well as focus on career readiness. I knew from personal experience how crucial it is for young women to see what is possible and to have the tools to break through barriers. I wanted the club to be a place where we not only discussed empowerment but actively practiced it. This was done by hosting events, career summits, and creating opportunities for personal and professional growth. I was tasked with reaching out to women in fields like medicine, law, business, and engineering—industries where women, and especially women of color, are heavily underrepresented. The idea was to offer a platform where these professionals could share their stories, provide guidance, and inspire the next generation of women leaders. Additionally, displaying to young girls that being a woman and climbing up the ladder in any career is possible. Furthermore, I helped host a career summit at my high school, inviting passionate girls from other schools the opportunity to connect with women in distinguished professions. Further, introducing them to the representation we all have yearned for. Ultimately, the women I found also kept in touch with the girls within Nerdy Girl Success, allowing the participants in the club to stay in communication with them on Linked-in, and utilize the women as mentors. As this mentorship continued, I saw a change in perception in how we viewed ourselves. The sense of invisibility we once felt began to fade, replaced by new confidence that we, too, could succeed in spaces where women had historically been underrepresented. The girls in Nerdy Girl Success began to feel more confident, knowing that it was not impossible for women to enter these male-dominant career fields or even climb up the ladder within their occupation. They began exploring different careers they never thought they would have interest in, striving to reach for the top instead of settling for less. Through this journey, I learned that leadership isn’t just about taking charge—it is about creating opportunities for others to grow and thrive. As president of Nerdy Girl Success, I have seen firsthand how mentorship, representation, and empowerment can transform a mindset. Ultimately, the girls in my club and myself now have gained a new understanding of the foggy perception we had when we were young. With this new understanding, we know that we are fully capable of achieving success, no matter the field.

To stand out as one of the candidates applying to this scholarship, I bring a blend of academic dedication, leadership experience, and a passion for community service that aligns with the Kalia D. Davis Memorial Scholarships values. I have consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence, pursuing an Associate’s Degree in Biology while maintaining leadership roles in clubs such as NeuroClub and Nerdy Girl Success. It is through these clubs that I can empower students through career readiness workshops, hosting guest lecturers, and mentorship programs. These experiences reflect my determination to uplift others and create opportunities for growth. As the captain of Varsity Track and Field and Flag Football, I understand the importance of resilience, teamwork, and leading by example. My ability to inspire and motivate my peers has helped us achieve shared goals both on and off the field. Through moral support I encouraged my teammates to keep going when practice was difficult, and even aided them in their form for blocks and running. Ultimately, boosting their confidence in the sports. Similarly, my involvement in National Honor Society, HOSA, and Key Club highlights my dedication to service, ensuring I give back to my community in meaningful ways. Growing up in an academically driven household, education is a priority for my family. From a young age, I have been captivated by how our nervous system controls everything we do, inspiring me to pursue a career in neurology. This is why I have chosen to major in Neuroscience with a Bachelor of Science degree because of my fascination with the human brain and its complexities. Neurology provides the foundational knowledge to understand the intricate systems that allow us to think, feel, and move. My academic focus stems not only from curiosity but also from a deep desire to make a meaningful impact by helping individuals facing neurological challenges. Additionally, my professional and life goals center on providing service and equity in healthcare. I aspire to open a nonprofit clinic providing neurological care to individuals with low income or no insurance. Through the situation with my aunt- who was a victim of insufficient medical treatment due to a lack of insurance- I witnessed how limited access to healthcare can impact families, and I am determined to address this disparity. Through this clinic, I hope to offer comprehensive care while fostering trust within underserved communities. Everyone has aspirations, but it is how one acts upon their goals that make the dream possible. The pursuit of professional success is not about reaching a destination—it is about the journey of growth and exploration along the way. By empowering individuals with knowledge and resources, I want to ensure that everyone, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to live healthier lives. These goals drive me every day, shaping my education and personal growth into tools for creating a more equitable world. This scholarship would not only support my education but also help me continue laying the groundwork for this mission. I am prepared to maximize this opportunity by representing the Kalia D. Davis Memorial Scholarships values and contribute to the legacy of its recipients. I, Favian Williams, aspire to become a Neurologist and change accessibility to healthcare.

It’s strange how one decision, made so casually in a moment, can echo through your life forever. It was just a regular Saturday evening, and like most 10-year-olds, I was outside playing with friends. That is when my family stepped outside and asked the question I'd remember forever, “Do you want to see your aunt?” My ignorance of being a child showed, and without hesitation I refused. Soon guilt consumed me, but faded when my family returned. My mom reassured me that everything was okay—that my aunt was awake and happy to see them. My aunt even asked where I was, which made me promise myself I’d be there for the next visit. In a couple of days, we went to see my aunt in the ICU. As we drove to the hospital, my mind drifted to countless memories with her. I remembered her infectious smile that could brighten even the darkest days and the nickname she gave me,“fayfay”. My aunt was the string that tied our distant family together, always offering a helping hand, even though she had little. Her home was my second home, a place I begged to go every Friday after school to talk about trivial things—like crushes—that I did not feel comfortable sharing with my mom. She was my rock and always there for me. My aunt may not have had much, but the times we spent together made me forget about monetary value. And those memories filled my mind in the car, unaware of how I would soon rely on them. The next day, my aunt was taken off life support. The offer my parents had made to see her that day was my last chance to see her awake, smiling, and present. And I refused. Over the years, the constant sounds of my cousins' cries and my parents' tears echoed in my mind. I couldn't stop thinking about how my aunt's final thoughts were about where I had been. Inducing the guilt I felt for not being there for her. I was also angry—angry at the doctors who delayed her surgery due to her lack of insurance and angry that a power outage caused her fatal aneurysm. These emotions consumed me, leading to setbacks as I struggled with grief. As time went on, however, through the reassurance provided by my family, I realized that holding on to these negative feelings was only hurting me. In a world where external challenges are already significant, I knew I could not afford to be my own adversary. My aunt’s passing became a catalyst for growth. I began breaking out of my shell by volunteering, embracing the fulfillment that came from serving others without expecting anything in return. I started helping at my church and in the community, channeling my grief into service—such as creating a water filter as a project to provide clean water solutions using simple materials. Now, in high school, I am the president of Nerdy Girls Success, a club I founded to empower young women. In addition, I am a member of the National Honor Society, Key Club, Neuro Club, and the captain of both the Varsity Track and Field and Flag Football teams—all while working towards my Associates Degree. The unforeseen tragedy of my aunt’s passing has transformed into something positive for me. Through it all, I have learned that setbacks do not define us; it is how we rise from them that truly matters. My aunt’s memory continues to inspire me to live a life she would be proud of and a life I have realized I have always yearned for.

Growing up in an academically driven household, education is a priority for my family. From a young age, I have been captivated by how our nervous system controls everything we do, inspiring me to pursue a career in neurology. This is why I have chosen to major in Neuroscience with a Bachelor of Science degree because of my fascination with the human brain and its complexities. Neurology provides the foundational knowledge to understand the intricate systems that allow us to think, feel, and move. My academic focus stems not only from curiosity but also from a deep desire to make a meaningful impact by helping individuals facing neurological challenges. After earning my Bachelor’s degree, I plan to attend medical school to specialize in neuroscience. My educational journey will include rigorous trials and tribulations, hands-on experience, and continuous learning to become a physician dedicated to understanding and treating brain disorders. Beyond my clinical practice, I aim to use my expertise to conduct research and develop innovative solutions that improve patient’s quality of life. Ultimately, I plan to act upon my educational and career goals by attending Texas A&M University and participating in their neuroscience program. At Texas A&M University, I am eager to engage with faculty who are leaders in these fields. I hope to participate in research labs that focus on medical research, where I can contribute to the development of innovative treatment approaches. Ultimately, being allowed to engage and study in these research labs would develop my skills and enhance my knowledge in these subjects, further leading me in the right direction in my intended field. In addition to this, I also would love to gain knowledge on aneurysms, strokes, and other brain complications. Hence, furthering my understanding of how these conditions begin, how to properly identify them, and how best to treat such circumstances. I believe that research is vital for advancing our understanding of neurological conditions and improving patient care. Additionally, my professional and life goals center on providing service and equity in healthcare. I aspire to open a nonprofit clinic providing neurological care to individuals with low income or no insurance. Through the situation with my aunt- who was a victim of insufficient medical treatment due to a lack of insurance- I witnessed how limited access to healthcare can impact families, and I am determined to address this disparity. Through this clinic, I hope to offer comprehensive care while fostering trust within underserved communities. Everyone has aspirations, but it is how one acts upon their goals that make the dream possible. The pursuit of professional success is not about reaching a destination—it is about the journey of growth and exploration along the way. By empowering individuals with knowledge and resources, I want to ensure that everyone, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to live healthier lives. These goals drive me every day, shaping my education and personal growth into tools for creating a more equitable world. I, Favian Williams, aspire to become a Neurologist and change accessibility to healthcare. The Andre' Burchelle Roach Scholarship will allow me to do this.

Growing up in an academically driven household, education is a priority for my family. From a young age, I have been captivated by how our nervous system controls everything we do, inspiring me to pursue a career in neurology. This is why I have chosen to major in Neuroscience with a Bachelor of Science degree because of my fascination with the human brain and its complexities. Neurology provides the foundational knowledge to understand the intricate systems that allow us to think, feel, and move. My academic focus stems not only from curiosity but also from a deep desire to make a meaningful impact by helping individuals facing neurological challenges. After earning my Bachelor’s degree, I plan to attend medical school to specialize in neuroscience. My educational journey will include rigorous trials and tribulations, hands-on experience, and continuous learning to become a physician dedicated to understanding and treating brain disorders. Beyond my clinical practice, I aim to use my expertise to conduct research and develop innovative solutions that improve patient’s quality of life. Ultimately, I plan to act upon my educational and career goals by attending Texas A&M University and participating in their neuroscience program. At Texas A&M University, I am eager to engage with faculty who are leaders in these fields. I hope to participate in research labs that focus on medical research, where I can contribute to the development of innovative treatment approaches. Ultimately, being allowed to engage and study in these research labs would develop my skills and enhance my knowledge in these subjects, further leading me in the right direction in my intended field. In addition to this, I also would love to gain knowledge on aneurysms, strokes, and other brain complications. Hence, furthering my understanding of how these conditions begin, how to properly identify them, and how best to treat such circumstances. I believe that research is vital for advancing our understanding of neurological conditions and improving patient care. Additionally, my professional and life goals center on providing service and equity in healthcare. I aspire to open a nonprofit clinic providing neurological care to individuals with low income or no insurance. Through the situation with my aunt- who was a victim of insufficient medical treatment due to a lack of insurance- I witnessed how limited access to healthcare can impact families, and I am determined to address this disparity. Through this clinic, I hope to offer comprehensive care while fostering trust within underserved communities. Everyone has aspirations, but it is how one acts upon their goals that make the dream possible. The pursuit of professional success is not about reaching a destination—it is about the journey of growth and exploration along the way. By empowering individuals with knowledge and resources, I want to ensure that everyone, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to live healthier lives. These goals drive me every day, shaping my education and personal growth into tools for creating a more equitable world. I, Favian Williams, aspire to become a Neurologist and change accessibility to healthcare.

Growing up in an academically driven household, education is a priority for my family. From a young age, I have been captivated by how our nervous system controls everything we do, inspiring me to pursue a career in neurology. This is why I have chosen to major in Neuroscience with a Bachelor of Science degree because of my fascination with the human brain and its complexities. Neurology provides the foundational knowledge to understand the intricate systems that allow us to think, feel, and move. My academic focus stems not only from curiosity but also from a deep desire to make a meaningful impact by helping individuals facing neurological challenges. After earning my Bachelor’s degree, I plan to attend medical school to specialize in neuroscience. My educational journey will include rigorous trials and tribulations, hands-on experience, and continuous learning to become a physician dedicated to understanding and treating brain disorders. Beyond my clinical practice, I aim to use my expertise to conduct research and develop innovative solutions that improve patient’s quality of life. Ultimately, I plan to act upon my educational and career goals by attending Texas A&M University and participating in their neuroscience program. At Texas A&M University, I am eager to engage with faculty who are leaders in these fields. I hope to participate in research labs that focus on medical research, where I can contribute to the development of innovative treatment approaches. Ultimately, being allowed to engage and study in these research labs would develop my skills and enhance my knowledge in these subjects, further leading me in the right direction in my intended field. In addition to this, I also would love to gain knowledge on aneurysms, strokes, and other brain complications. Hence, furthering my understanding of how these conditions begin, how to properly identify them, and how best to treat such circumstances. I believe that research is vital for advancing our understanding of neurological conditions and improving patient care. Additionally, my professional and life goals center on providing service and equity in healthcare. I aspire to open a nonprofit clinic providing neurological care to individuals with low income or no insurance. Through the situation with my aunt- who was a victim of insufficient medical treatment due to a lack of insurance- I witnessed how limited access to healthcare can impact families, and I am determined to address this disparity. Through this clinic, I hope to offer comprehensive care while fostering trust within underserved communities. Everyone has aspirations, but it is how one acts upon their goals that make the dream possible. The pursuit of professional success is not about reaching a destination—it is about the journey of growth and exploration along the way. By empowering individuals with knowledge and resources, I want to ensure that everyone, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to live healthier lives. These goals drive me every day, shaping my education and personal growth into tools for creating a more equitable world. I, Favian Williams, aspire to become a Neurologist and change accessibility to healthcare.

It’s strange how one decision, made so casually in a moment, can echo through your life forever. It was just a regular Saturday evening, and like most 10-year-olds, I was outside playing with friends. That is when my family stepped outside and asked the question I'd remember forever, “Do you want to see your aunt?” My ignorance of being a child showed, and without hesitation I refused. Soon guilt consumed me, but faded when my family returned. My mom reassured me that everything was okay—that my aunt was awake and happy to see them. My aunt even asked where I was, which made me promise myself I’d be there for the next visit. In a couple of days, we went to see my aunt in the ICU. As we drove to the hospital, my mind drifted to countless memories with her. I remembered her infectious smile that could brighten even the darkest days and the nickname she gave me,“fayfay”. My aunt was the string that tied our distant family together, always offering a helping hand, even though she had little. Her home was my second home, a place I begged to go every Friday after school to talk about trivial things—like crushes—that I did not feel comfortable sharing with my mom. She was my rock and always there for me. My aunt may not have had much, but the times we spent together made me forget about monetary value. And those memories filled my mind in the car, unaware of how I would soon rely on them. The next day, my aunt was taken off life support. The offer my parents had made to see her that day was my last chance to see her awake, smiling, and present. And I refused. Over the years, the constant sounds of my cousins' cries and my parents' tears echoed in my mind. I couldn't stop thinking about how my aunt's final thoughts were about where I had been. Inducing the guilt I felt for not being there for her. I was also angry—angry at the doctors who delayed her surgery due to her lack of insurance and angry that a power outage caused her fatal aneurysm. These emotions consumed me, leading to setbacks as I struggled with grief. As time went on, however, through the reassurance provided by my family, I realized that holding on to these negative feelings was only hurting me. In a world where external challenges are already significant, I knew I could not afford to be my own adversary. My aunt’s passing became a catalyst for growth. I began breaking out of my shell by volunteering, embracing the fulfillment that came from serving others without expecting anything in return. I started helping at my church and in the community, channeling my grief into service—such as creating a water filter as a project to provide clean water solutions using simple materials. Now, in high school, I am the president of Nerdy Girls Success, a club I founded to empower young women. In addition, I am a member of the National Honor Society, Key Club, Neuro Club, and the captain of both the Varsity Track and Field and Flag Football teams—all while working towards my Associates Degree. The unforeseen tragedy of my aunt’s passing has transformed into something positive for me. Through it all, I have learned that setbacks do not define us; it is how we rise from them that truly matters. My aunt’s memory continues to inspire me to live a life she would be proud of and a life I have realized I have always yearned for.

Growing up in an academically driven household, education is a priority for my family. From a young age, I have been captivated by how our nervous system controls everything we do, inspiring me to pursue a career in neurology. This is why I have chosen to major in Neuroscience with a Bachelor of Science degree because of my fascination with the human brain and its complexities. Neurology provides the foundational knowledge to understand the intricate systems that allow us to think, feel, and move. My academic focus stems not only from curiosity but also from a deep desire to make a meaningful impact by helping individuals facing neurological challenges. After earning my Bachelor’s degree, I plan to attend medical school to specialize in neuroscience. My educational journey will include rigorous trials and tribulations, hands-on experience, and continuous learning to become a physician dedicated to understanding and treating brain disorders. Beyond my clinical practice, I aim to use my expertise to conduct research and develop innovative solutions that improve patient’s quality of life. Ultimately, I plan to act upon my educational and career goals by attending Texas A&M University and participating in their neuroscience program. At Texas A&M University, I am eager to engage with faculty who are leaders in these fields. I hope to participate in research labs that focus on medical research, where I can contribute to the development of innovative treatment approaches. Ultimately, being allowed to engage and study in these research labs would develop my skills and enhance my knowledge in these subjects, further leading me in the right direction in my intended field. In addition to this, I also would love to gain knowledge on aneurysms, strokes, and other brain complications. Hence, furthering my understanding of how these conditions begin, how to properly identify them, and how best to treat such circumstances. I believe that research is vital for advancing our understanding of neurological conditions and improving patient care. Additionally, my professional and life goals center on providing service and equity in healthcare. I aspire to open a nonprofit clinic providing neurological care to individuals with low income or no insurance. Through the situation with my aunt- who was a victim of insufficient medical treatment due to a lack of insurance- I witnessed how limited access to healthcare can impact families, and I am determined to address this disparity. Through this clinic, I hope to offer comprehensive care while fostering trust within underserved communities. Everyone has aspirations, but it is how one acts upon their goals that make the dream possible. The pursuit of professional success is not about reaching a destination—it is about the journey of growth and exploration along the way. By empowering individuals with knowledge and resources, I want to ensure that everyone, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to live healthier lives. These goals drive me every day, shaping my education and personal growth into tools for creating a more equitable world. I, Favian Williams, aspire to become a Neurologist and change accessibility to healthcare.

Growing up in an academically driven household, education is a priority for my family. From a young age, I have been captivated by how our nervous system controls everything we do, inspiring me to pursue a career in neurology. This is why I have chosen to major in Neuroscience with a Bachelor of Science degree because of my fascination with the human brain and its complexities. Neurology provides the foundational knowledge to understand the intricate systems that allow us to think, feel, and move. My academic focus stems not only from curiosity but also from a deep desire to make a meaningful impact by helping individuals facing neurological challenges. After earning my Bachelor’s degree, I plan to attend medical school to specialize in neuroscience. My educational journey will include rigorous trials and tribulations, hands-on experience, and continuous learning to become a physician dedicated to understanding and treating brain disorders. Beyond my clinical practice, I aim to use my expertise to conduct research and develop innovative solutions that improve patient’s quality of life. Ultimately, I plan to act upon my educational and career goals by attending Texas A&M University and participating in their neuroscience program. At Texas A&M University, I am eager to engage with faculty who are leaders in these fields. I hope to participate in research labs that focus on medical research, where I can contribute to the development of innovative treatment approaches. Ultimately, being allowed to engage and study in these research labs would develop my skills and enhance my knowledge in these subjects, further leading me in the right direction in my intended field. In addition to this, I also would love to gain knowledge on aneurysms, strokes, and other brain complications. Hence, furthering my understanding of how these conditions begin, how to properly identify them, and how best to treat such circumstances. I believe that research is vital for advancing our understanding of neurological conditions and improving patient care. Additionally, my professional and life goals center on providing service and equity in healthcare. I aspire to open a nonprofit clinic providing neurological care to individuals with low income or no insurance. Through the situation with my aunt- who was a victim of insufficient medical treatment due to a lack of insurance- I witnessed how limited access to healthcare can impact families, and I am determined to address this disparity. Through this clinic, I hope to offer comprehensive care while fostering trust within underserved communities. Everyone has aspirations, but it is how one acts upon their goals that make the dream possible. The pursuit of professional success is not about reaching a destination—it is about the journey of growth and exploration along the way. By empowering individuals with knowledge and resources, I want to ensure that everyone, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to live healthier lives. These goals drive me every day, shaping my education and personal growth into tools for creating a more equitable world. I, Favian Williams, aspire to become a Neurologist and change accessibility to healthcare.

Growing up, I rarely saw women dominating distinguished professions, and even less so women of color. Being an African American girl, this lack of representation created an unspoken message—that success in certain fields was not meant for people like me. I often found myself searching for role models who looked like me, who had overcome similar challenges, but they were few and far in between. Thus, this sense of invisibility left a lasting impact on me, influencing me to seek out clubs relating to this club in high school. This is why when I found Nerdy Girl Success, a club dedicated to empowering young women, I immediately felt connected to their cause. I joined during 10th grade and by 11th grade I became vice president of the club. Eventually leading me to move up to president in 12th grade. As president, my goal was to continue the club’s mission of empowerment as well as focus on career readiness. I knew from personal experience how crucial it is for young women to see what is possible and to have the tools to break through barriers. I wanted the club to be a place where we not only discussed empowerment but actively practiced it. This was done by hosting events, career summits, and creating opportunities for personal and professional growth. I was tasked with reaching out to women in fields like medicine, law, business, and engineering—industries where women, and especially women of color, are heavily underrepresented. The idea was to offer a platform where these professionals could share their stories, provide guidance, and inspire the next generation of women leaders. Additionally, displaying to young girls that being a woman and climbing up the ladder in any career is possible. Furthermore, I helped host a career summit at my high school, inviting passionate girls from other schools the opportunity to connect with women in distinguished professions. Further, introducing them to the representation we all have yearned for. Ultimately, the women I found also kept in touch with the girls within Nerdy Girl Success, allowing the participants in the club to stay in communication with them on Linked-in, and utilize the women as mentors. As this mentorship continued, I saw a change in perception in how we viewed ourselves. The sense of invisibility we once felt began to fade, replaced by new confidence that we, too, could succeed in spaces where women had historically been underrepresented. The girls in Nerdy Girl Success began to feel more confident, knowing that it was not impossible for women to enter these male-dominant career fields or even climb up the ladder within their occupation. They began exploring different careers they never thought they would have interest in, striving to reach for the top instead of settling for less. Through this journey, I learned that leadership isn’t just about taking charge—it is about creating opportunities for others to grow and thrive. As president of Nerdy Girl Success, I have seen firsthand how mentorship, representation, and empowerment from diverse women in STEM careers can transform a mindset. Ultimately, the girls in my club and myself now have gained a new understanding of the foggy perception we had when we were young. With this new understanding, we know that we are fully capable of achieving success, no matter the field.

I embody the spirit of B.A.B.Y. L.O.V.E. through the challenges I've faced as an African American woman navigating societal expectations and on a personal spiritual journey. From early on in my education, I learned that mediocrity was never an option; if my grades didn't meet my standards, I would diligently study at home with unwavering support from my parents. Despite this dedication, I often faced unjust judgments based on my appearance. For instance, I vividly remember teachers cautioning me not to cause trouble on the first day of school, simply because I was one of the few African American students in my class, even though I had done nothing wrong. Such circumstances occurred repeatedly, yet today, I persist in upholding these high standards and striving for excellence in every facet of my life. The true impact of B.A.B.Y. L.O.V.E. hit me deeply on June 26th, 2017, the day my family had to make the heart-wrenching decision to remove life support from my aunt, who had suffered a ruptured brain aneurysm. The surgeons' hesitation to operate due to her lack of insurance, compounded by a power outage in the hospital, tragically resulted in her becoming brain dead. At that time, I felt a mix of sadness, anger, and self-blame for not visiting her while she was stable. She was like a second mother to me, and I carried guilt from when, as a 10-year-old, I chose to play outside instead of giving her one last hug. Of course, none of us knew she would pass, but those feelings haunted me for a while. Over time, I realized that harboring negative emotions wouldn't serve me well. In a world where external challenges are already significant, I knew I couldn't afford to be my own adversary. My aunt's passing became a catalyst for personal growth and achievement. By age 12, I began helping others—volunteering at church, feeding the homeless, and even creating a water filter for my seventh-grade history project to provide clean water solutions using simple materials like a Coke bottle, charcoal, sand, and a coffee filter. Now in high school, I proudly serve as president of "Nerdy Girl Success," a club founded to empower young females. We offer free mentorships from successful women, organize field trips to various workplaces, and engage in volunteer activities such as supporting the "March of Dimes" to assist new and expecting mothers. In addition, I am a member of the National Honor Society and have been on the Varsity Track and Field team since freshman year while pursuing my Associates in Biology through my school's Futures program. Balancing volunteering, sports, leadership in my club, and academics has shaped me into a well-rounded individual. Overall, I embody the B.A.B.Y L.O.V.E. spirit through both my accomplishments and the trials I've overcome. Enduring difficult times has propelled me to achieve greater heights than I could have imagined. As my life's journey unfolds, my aspiration is to become a neurologist, driven not only by my dedication to my aunt but also by a desire to provide optimal care to others facing similar challenges. If providence allows, I aim to establish a nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting low-income individuals, enabling me to passionately serve others while continuing to grow personally and professionally.