The faint sound of monitors and hurried footsteps used to scare me. I can still remember sitting in the corner of the ER, waiting for my shift to end, while watching doctors and nurses rush from one room to another. At first, I thought I didn’t belong there, I'm just a volunteer in oversized scrubs, quietly delivering blankets or comforting anxious families. But over time, that same place of chaos and urgency became where I discovered purpose. My name is Florencia Cabrera, and I am a biomedical science and Spanish double major pursuing a future in healthcare. I am also a proud Latina, first-generation college student, and someone who has learned that resilience isn’t built in comfort, it’s built in the quiet moments when you choose to stand back up after life knocks you down. My biggest challenge came during my first year of college. Between balancing two majors, early morning cross-country practices, and late-night study sessions, I thought I could handle anything. But then came the burnout. The kind that crept up slowly until I didn’t recognize myself anymore. I was constantly tired, my grades began to slip, and I questioned whether I was cut out for the medical field. For the first time, I considered giving up something I loved because the pressure felt too heavy to carry alone. That turning point came one late night in the gym, where I worked as a student assistant. I remember sitting at the desk after closing, staring at the empty gym in front of me. I realized that the strength I admired most in others wasn’t about being unshakable, it was about asking for help when you need it. So I did. I reached out to my coach, my professors, and a mentor who had once been in my shoes. Slowly, I rebuilt myself. Managing my time better, prioritizing rest, and leaning on my faith to carry me through. That experience changed me. I began to see every challenge not as a wall, but as a test of persistence. I threw myself into service by volunteering weekly at Integris Hospital’s ER and Burn Wound Clinic, where I saw pain, courage, and healing intertwine in ways textbooks could never capture. I joined Circle K International, where I now serve as President, leading service projects that empower others to give back. From organizing food drives with the Kiwanis Club to partnering with OU Children’s Hospital to bring joy to patients, I learned that leadership isn’t about titles, it’s about using your time and heart to uplift others. That same passion for service led me to run for Vice President of the Student Government Association, where I now advocate for student safety, mental health awareness, and diversity initiatives on campus. Through SGA, I’ve learned that leadership also means listening and understanding the needs of a community and turning that understanding into meaningful change. Through it all, I’ve kept my dream clear: to become a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA). I want to be the calm presence in the room when fear is at its highest. I want to be the person who, like the nurses I once watched from afar, carries both science and compassion in every decision. The challenges I have faced have given me more than resilience. They have given me empathy, perspective, and drive. They taught me that success isn’t about never falling; it’s about having the faith and courage to rise again. Like Anthony Belliamy, I strive to live a life guided by integrity, optimism, and service. His legacy mirrors what I hope to build. A future defined not by ease, but by the impact left on others. This scholarship would not only help me continue my education, but it would also honor his spirit by allowing me to serve more, lead better, and give back in the same selfless way he did.

When I first heard Olivia Rodrigo sing, “When am I gonna stop being wise beyond my years and just start being wise?” in teenage dream, I felt like she had put into words a thought I never dared to say out loud. For as long as I can remember, I have been the person people describe as “mature for my age.” Teachers, coaches, and peers have often told me that I seem older than I am, that I handle responsibilities most people would shy away from. On the surface, they are right: I double major in Biomedical Science and Spanish, compete as a collegiate athlete, lead in student organizations, and spend my weekends volunteering in hospitals and community programs. But what most people don’t see is the quiet tension that comes with always being “wise beyond my years.” The lyric resonates with me because it captures the contradiction of adolescence: being capable of carrying more than most, while still figuring out who you are. There are moments when I feel the weight of every expectation pressing on me, like graduate on time, maintain high GPAs, excel in athletics, volunteer, lead, prepare for nursing school, and someday become a CRNA. I often feel like I live in the future, constantly mapping out the next five years of my life. And yet, I am still in my teens, still navigating relationships, still learning how to balance being a student with being a young adult who wants to laugh, to breathe, and to enjoy the present. Adolescence, for me, has been a balancing act between maturity and vulnerability. On the track, I run mile repeats until my legs feel heavy, but I also sit on the grass afterward wondering if I am strong enough to keep pushing. In the ER where I volunteer, I stock supplies with steady hands, but I carry home the faces of patients long after I leave. In classrooms, I raise my hand with confidence, but I sometimes wonder if I am asking the right questions, or if I even belong in the space I have worked so hard to earn. Rodrigo’s lyric captures that duality perfectly. It makes me reflect on how wisdom is not something you wake up one day and acquire, it is something shaped by trial, error, and courage. Being “wise beyond my years” has taught me resilience, but being truly wise means learning to embrace uncertainty without losing myself in it. What I have come to understand is that wisdom is not about knowing everything or making the perfect choices. It is about showing up with persistence and authenticity. It is about trusting that even if I do not have every answer, the effort I put into my goals matters. It is about holding space for both strength and vulnerability, both the future I dream about and the present I am still living. This lyric, and the way it mirrors my own journey, reminds me that it is okay to not have everything figured out. The challenges of adolescence are not signs of weakness: they are proof of growth. And in that messy, complicated space between expectation and reality, I have found the foundation for the person I am becoming: someone determined, reflective, and unafraid to keep striving, even in uncertainty.

The sky was gray, and the rain poured down in steady sheets, soaking through my sneakers and making the pavement slick beneath my feet. I was just a kid in elementary school, lined up for my very first 5K, not knowing what I had gotten myself into. Within the first mile, my legs already ached, and the thought of walking tugged at me with every step. But beside me was my dad, his voice steady and firm: “No te rindas, mija. Tú puedes.” Each time I wanted to slow down, he reminded me to keep pushing. I crossed that finish line drenched, exhausted, and out of breath, but something inside me had changed. That rainy race was the first time I realized I was stronger than the voice telling me to quit. Soon after, I joined Girls on the Run, a program that not only taught me how to set goals but also how to believe in myself. At the time, I didn’t fully realize how much it shaped me, but years later, in college, I had the incredible opportunity to give back as a Girls on the Run coach. Standing on the other side, encouraging young girls to discover their strength, was a full-circle moment. It reminded me of where I started and why I fell in love with running in the first place. I’ve competed for years now, and the journey has given me moments I’ll never forget: earning NAIA All-American honors, being named Champion of Character, and crossing finish lines I once thought were impossible. But behind those achievements is a story of resilience. My path hasn’t been easy. Balancing the weight of academics, training, leadership roles, and personal struggles often felt overwhelming. There were days when I questioned if I could keep going. Days when exhaustion or heartbreak whispered that giving up would be easier. But every time I tried to run anyway, I chose to show up. Those setbacks taught me resilience in a way no medal could. I learned that even when life throws its hardest challenges at you, you can turn pain into fuel. I became stronger, not just as an athlete, but as a person who refuses to let obstacles define her. When I think about who inspires me, I think of my mom. She has faced her own battles with grace and determination, always putting others first while chasing her own dreams. Watching her persevere taught me that true strength is quiet, steady, and relentless. She is the kind of woman I want to be, the kind who uplifts others while breaking barriers for herself. Being a student-athlete today means more to me than ever. I run for myself, for my team, and for the girls watching from the sidelines who wonder if they can do it too. The answer I want to show them is simple: you got it, girl. You can push through, even when it feels impossible. This scholarship would allow me to continue chasing my dreams without the constant stress of finances weighing me down. Gear, travel, training, and school expenses all add up, and support like this would give me the chance to focus fully on running, learning, and preparing for my future as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA). Just like on the track, I am determined to go the distance: one mile, one challenge, one victory at a time. I currently compete in collegiate cross country and track on athletic scholarship, and every time I line up for a race, I remember what it means to be both a student and an athlete. It means discipline, resilience, and the courage to keep writing your story even when setbacks try to stop you. Being a “You Got It Girl” is not about being perfect. It’s about being persistent. It’s about pushing through barriers, refusing to let circumstances define you, and paving the way for others to do the same. My story is still being written, but one thing is clear: I’m not stopping anytime soon.

When I was little, my father had heart surgery. I remember walking into the hospital room and being struck by how many tubes and machines surrounded him. I kept asking what each one was for, fascinated by the way they all worked together to keep him alive. Finally, I pointed to one, and he explained with a laugh that it was for his pee and poo. At the time, my young mind couldn’t fully grasp the complexity of what I was seeing, but the experience sparked a curiosity in me that never went away. That was the first time I realized how much science and medicine could do to protect the people we love. My name is Florencia Cabrera, and I am a Latina student entering my senior year at Oklahoma City University. I am double majoring in Biomedical Sciences and Spanish, with the goal of becoming a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA). As a woman of color in STEM, I have faced barriers related to finances, representation, and personal adversity. Yet, these challenges have only strengthened my determination to succeed and to serve others through science and healthcare. Finances have been one of the greatest challenges of my academic journey. My family has always worked hard to support me, but resources were limited, and I often needed to find ways to contribute to my own education. Balancing school, athletics, and jobs was not easy, but it taught me resilience and time management. While some students had the privilege of focusing only on coursework, I had to learn how to juggle responsibilities and remain committed to my long-term goals. That financial pressure pushed me to seek scholarships, leadership positions, and opportunities that could both develop me and help cover expenses. Adversity has also shaped me in athletics. As a cross country and track runner, I have experienced the pain of injuries and the weight of self-doubt. There were moments when it felt easier to quit, but each setback reminded me of why I run: to prove to myself and others that perseverance matters. As a Latina runner, I am often one of the few women of color on the course. That visibility drives me to keep showing up, not only for myself but for the younger girls watching who might one day see themselves in my shoes. What has kept me grounded through these challenges is my passion for science and healthcare. My curiosity that began with my father’s heart surgery grew as I studied biology and biomedical science. I became fascinated by how the body works and how much potential there is to improve lives through research and medical practice. My volunteer work at Integris Hospital deepened that passion. Serving in the Emergency Room and burn wound clinic, I saw patients arrive at their most vulnerable moments. I watched medical professionals use both skill and compassion to care for them, and I knew I wanted to be part of that world. Being bilingual also allowed me to step in when language created barriers, showing me how powerful communication can be in patient advocacy. In addition to academics and volunteering, leadership has been a major part of my growth. As former President of Circle K International (CKI), I organized service projects that partnered with hospitals, children’s organizations, and community programs. When I lost most of my CKI executive team, I could have given up, but instead, I adapted, recruited new members, and kept the club moving forward. That experience taught me how to lead through adversity. If I would have gave up then the club would have never won the award for Outstanding Student Organization Commitment to Community Service. In Student Government Association (SGA), I served as Athletics Senator and Vice Chair of Student Services, and now I serve as the Vice President. I worked on initiatives related to campus safety, diversity, and mental health resources. Leadership has given me the tools to use my voice not only for myself but for others who may feel unheard. Looking ahead, my path is clear. I will graduate with my biomedical science degree in 2026, then pursue an accelerated nursing program to earn my BSN in 2027. After gaining critical care experience, I will apply to CRNA school. My ultimate goal is to serve as a nurse anesthetist, where I can combine technical expertise with empathy to deliver safe and effective care. I also want to improve access for underserved communities, ensuring that people who face financial or cultural barriers receive quality treatment. Just as importantly, I hope to mentor younger women of color who aspire to careers in STEM, so that they know they belong in these fields. This is why I studied abroad in Mexico this summer, to learn more about medicine in Spanish so that I may be that stepping stone for other Hispanics in America. The mission of the Eric W. Larson Scholarship deeply resonates with me. Eric Larson’s belief in education, gender equality, and diversity in STEM mirrors my own values and aspirations. His legacy inspires me to keep pushing forward, even when challenges feel overwhelming. This scholarship would not only ease the financial burden of my education but also affirm that my efforts to combine ambition, resilience, and service are making a difference. Adversity has shaped me, but it has never defined me. From sitting at my father’s bedside and asking questions about tubes I barely understood, to studying complex systems of biology and volunteering in real hospital settings, I have grown into a woman driven by curiosity, compassion, and determination. These are the qualities I will carry into my career as a healthcare professional, and they are the qualities that will keep me going at all times. Thank you for considering my application. God Bless.

My journey as a first-time Hispanic college-goer has been like a rollercoaster. I have faced many different challenges that have shaped my educational aspirations. One of the hardest challenges is the feeling of being the odd one out. Some days it feels like my classmates know exactly what they are doing, what's next, and how to go about it. Lots of things are new to me, it's a learn as I go process. Sometimes it makes me feel inferior. But I remind myself that I deserve to be here too. Being a first-time Hispanic college-goer is a long mental battle. Luckily, it is like reverse psychology for me. The harder it feels, the more I want it because I want to prove that consistency and determination beats any challenge I face off. Therefore, I am determined to graduate college with my Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Science and minor in Spanish. A huge obstacle I have encountered is learning how to balance academics with athleticism. I am proud to say I am a student-athlete. This has forced me to improve my time management skills, the hard way. My first year my grades were not the best since I was mentally and physically exhausted daily. I am honored to say that this semester I finished with all A's. It makes me happy to look back and see the progress. Progression is a reminder of growth, and that helps me stay strong. The legacy of Jose Prado inspires me to continue my educational journey because he reminds me of why I do it, for family. He "supported the education journey of his daughter to become the first college graduate in their family". As a daughter myself, it's a heart warming action. Just like his daughter, I also want to make my parents proud. I want to be a positive role model for my siblings. I want them to look at me and say, "Yea, anything is possible". That is why, when I establish my scholarship in the future, it will be dedicated for first generation female Hispanics. To help break the stereotypes we have been labeled. I do more than just cook and clean. I can go to school, I can become a Physician Associate, I can be the provider. There is more out there for us. My ideal candidate would be Hispanic women that are actively breaking the stereotypes by pursuing higher education. That is because I believe in the transformative power of education. Higher education opens various doors, opportunities come flooding in, and you get the power to choose your future. Overall, I love being a first generation Hispanic college-goer because it means I can be an impactful leader. It means that I can prove that obstacles are temporary barriers. I get the chance to prove that Latina women are smart and educated. Most importantly, I get to choose my path.

Currently, I am deeply involved in giving back to my community through various avenues of volunteer work. At Integris in the emergency room, I have the privilege of assisting medical professionals in providing care to individuals during their most vulnerable moments. Whether it's comforting patients, or simply lending a helping hand. Additionally, I volunteer with Girls on the Run, an organization dedicated to empowering young girls through physical activity, positive reinforcement, and mentorship. Through this program, I have the opportunity to inspire and uplift the next generation of women, encouraging them to embrace their strengths, pursue their passions, and believe in their potential. As a Latina woman, I am particularly passionate about empowering other Latinas to give back to their communities and pursue their dreams fearlessly. I believe that by leading by example, I can inspire other Latin women to step up, make a difference, and strive for greatness. As a coach, I'm grateful to give back to a program that once impacted me. My dedication extends to my own family. I am determined to show them that their future opportunities are limitless and that they have the power to achieve their dreams. By setting a positive example and providing support and encouragement, I hope to instill in them the confidence and determination to pursue their goals with passion and resilience. As the president of my school's Circle K International (CKI) chapter, a service and leadership club, I am actively involved in organizing and participating in various community service projects. Recently, our club packaged 200 snack bags for homeless teens at Sisu Youth Services, providing them with nourishment and support. Each snack bag had a customized note that the volunteers crafted. Additionally, I annually volunteer at my church to serve low-income families, offering them hot meals, a play about the word of Jesus, and school supplies to support their education. Looking ahead to the future, I am driven by a desire to make a meaningful impact on a larger scale. As an undergraduate student pursuing a B.S. in biomedical science and a minor in Spanish, I am laying the groundwork for a career in healthcare that aligns with my passion for service and my commitment to addressing healthcare disparities. My ultimate goal is to become a physician associate, specializing in providing care to lower economic communities that often lack access to quality healthcare services. I am actively involved in my university's track team, where I help promote events like 'Mile Night'. Through these initiatives, we encourage people to embrace physical fitness, strive for personal excellence, and support one another in achieving their goals. I am passionate about using my platform as an athlete to promote health and wellness within my community and inspire others to lead active, fulfilling lifestyles. I am taking steps to expand my skills by pursuing my EMT certification in the summer. With this certification, I will be better equipped to respond to medical emergencies and provide immediate assistance to those in need. I am committed to using my training to serve others and make a positive impact in times of crisis. In summary, my dedication to giving back to my community, empowering others, and pursuing a career in healthcare reflects my unwavering commitment to making a difference in the world. Through my volunteer work, academic pursuits, and future career aspirations, I am determined to create positive change, advocate for those in need, and leave a lasting legacy of compassion, service, and impact. Opportunities open doors for people like me. Thank you for giving me this opportunity.

Choosing to pursue a degree in healthcare has been a deeply personal and meaningful decision for me. It stems from a combination of personal experience, a strong desire to help others, and a commitment to breaking barriers as a Hispanic woman and a first-generation student. From a young age, I was drawn to the field of medicine because of the profound impact it had on my family. When my dad underwent heart surgery and emerged alive and well, I witnessed firsthand the remarkable ability of medical professionals to heal and save lives. This experience left an indelible mark on me, instilling in me a sense of awe and gratitude for the healthcare profession. It was during this time that I first declared my aspiration to become a doctor, inspired by the compassionate care and expertise that had saved my dad's life. As I grew older and embarked on my educational journey, my passion for healthcare only deepened. I found myself drawn to the intricacies of human biology, and the opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of others. Pursuing a degree in healthcare, particularly in the role of a Physician Associate (PA), felt like a natural progression of my lifelong dream to work in medicine. Beyond my personal motivation, I am also driven by a desire to challenge stereotypes and pave the way for others in my community. As a Hispanic woman and a first-generation student, I am keenly aware of the barriers and challenges that can hinder educational and career opportunities. However, I refuse to let these obstacles define my path. Instead, I see them as opportunities to break down barriers, defy expectations, and inspire others to pursue their dreams. In the healthcare field, I hope to make a positive impact by embodying the values of compassion, integrity, and inclusivity. I aspire to provide culturally competent care to diverse patient populations, advocating for underrepresented communities and addressing healthcare disparities. As a woman in healthcare, I recognize the importance of representation and diversity in shaping a more equitable and accessible healthcare system. By embracing my identity and leveraging my unique perspective, I aim to contribute to a more inclusive and compassionate healthcare environment for all. In conclusion, pursuing a degree in healthcare is not just a career choice for me—it is a calling rooted in personal experience, passion, and a commitment to making a difference. As I embark on this journey, I carry with me the lessons of resilience, determination, and hope, knowing that I have the power to shape the future of healthcare and inspire others to do the same.