My “pie in the sky” dream is to become a surgeon. Even writing that sentence feels bold. It’s the kind of dream that makes people pause, raise their eyebrows, or respond with, “Wow… that’s a lot.” And they’re not wrong. It is a lot. It’s years of school, long nights, constant pressure, and a level of responsibility that honestly scares me sometimes. But it’s also the dream I’ve carried with me for as long as I can remember. I don’t have a single, cinematic moment that sparked this goal. Instead, it grew quietly over time. I was always the kid who wanted to know how the body worked, who asked too many questions at doctor’s appointments, who was fascinated by the idea that one person’s knowledge and hands could save another person’s life. As I got older, that curiosity turned into admiration. I saw doctors as people who could bring calm into chaos, answers into uncertainty, and hope into moments when it felt impossible. I wanted to be that person. Now, as a 20-year-old college student, the dream feels closer than it ever has before—but also farther away. I’m living in the space between imagining myself in scrubs and struggling through tough science courses. Some days I feel confident and capable. Other days I wonder if I’m good enough to make it in such a competitive field. Balancing classes, work, and personal responsibilities can feel overwhelming, and there are moments when exhaustion makes me question everything. What keeps me going is the understanding that growth is supposed to be uncomfortable. I’ve learned that wanting to become a surgeon isn’t just about being good at science. It’s about discipline, resilience, and a willingness to fail and try again. I’ve had to change the way I study, learn how to ask for help, and accept that I won’t always be the smartest person in the room—and that’s okay. Every challenging exam, every late-night study session, and every setback has taught me something about myself. Mostly, it’s taught me that I don’t quit easily. Being a woman with this dream adds another layer. Sometimes people seem surprised when I say I want to be a surgeon, as if it doesn’t quite match their expectations. At first, that made me second-guess myself. Now, it fuels me. I want to be part of the generation that normalizes women in operating rooms, leadership roles, and high-pressure spaces. I don’t want to shrink my goals to make others more comfortable. To get where I want to be, I know the path will require more than just good grades. I plan to seek out shadowing opportunities, clinical experience, and mentors who can guide me. I will continue building strong study habits, protecting my mental health, and surrounding myself with people who believe in my potential even on days I struggle to believe in it myself. My pie-in-the-sky dream feels just out of reach because it’s supposed to. It’s big. It’s demanding. It’s intimidating. But it’s also mine. One day, I hope to stand in an operating room knowing that every step—the doubts, the late nights, the sacrifices—led me there. Until then, I will keep showing up, keep learning, and keep choosing the hard path because it leads to the life I’ve always imagined.

From a young age, I have always known that I wanted to become a doctor. The desire did not come from a single moment, but from a growing awareness of how deeply medicine can change lives. What I did not anticipate was how often people would question that dream simply because I am a woman. When I share my career aspiration, I am sometimes met with surprise, doubt, or comments suggesting that the path is “too demanding” or “unrealistic.” Those reactions, though discouraging at times, have become a source of motivation rather than a limitation. Navigating these perceptions while balancing the academic stress of a pre-medical path has not been easy. There have been moments when the weight of expectations, both internal and external, felt completely overwhelming. I have faced periods of mental exhaustion, self-doubt, and fear of not being “good enough” to succeed in such a competitive field. Instead of allowing these thoughts to define me, I chose to confront them head-on. I began building a mindset rooted in independence, reminding myself that my capability is not determined by others’ assumptions, but by my work ethic, persistence, and passion. One of the most important steps I have taken is learning to advocate for myself. I seek out mentors who inspire me, ask questions even when I am unsure, and take initiative in challenging academic environments. Each difficult class, long study session, and setback has taught me that growth happens outside of comfort. I have learned to view obstacles as evidence that I am pushing myself toward something meaningful. At times, I have also had to manage the emotional toll of comparison. Seeing others appear confident or effortless in their journey can make it easy to question your own progress. I now understand that success does not have a single timeline. My path is my own, and every step forward, no matter how small, brings me closer to my goal. Wanting to become a doctor is more than a career choice for me; it is a commitment to service. I am drawn to medicine because it blends science, compassion, and human connection. I want to be the physician who listens, who understands vulnerability, and who makes patients feel seen and respected. The adversity I have experienced has strengthened my empathy and reinforced why this profession matters so deeply to me. When people express surprise at my ambition, I no longer doubt myself. I stand confidently in my goals. I am proof that women belong in medicine, in leadership, and in spaces that demand excellence. The challenges I have faced have not weakened my resolve, they have sharpened it. Receiving this scholarship would represent more than financial support; it would be an investment in a future physician who is determined, resilient, and driven by purpose. I am committed to continuing this journey with perseverance and gratitude, and I will carry every opportunity I am given as a reminder that I am capable of achieving the dream I have held onto for so long.

A career in healthcare allows individuals not only to treat illness, but to improve lives through compassion, advocacy, and education. As a patient care technician, I have witnessed firsthand how meaningful, attentive care can make a difference for patients and their families. These experiences have shaped my desire to pursue physician assistant school and become a pediatric physician assistant, where I hope to care for children facing lung disease and rare medical conditions. In my current role as a patient care technician, I assist patients with daily care, monitor their comfort, and support the medical team during treatment and recovery. While these responsibilities are essential, the most impactful part of my job has been building trust with patients. Many patients struggle not only with physical symptoms but also with fear, uncertainty, and loss of independence. By offering patience, reassurance, and emotional support, I help ease some of the stress that accompanies illness. Working closely with patients has reinforced my belief that healthcare should treat the whole person, not just the diagnosis. My interest in lung disease and rare medical conditions stems from seeing how complex and life-altering these illnesses can be. Patients with chronic respiratory conditions often face ongoing treatments, hospitalizations, and limitations that affect their quality of life. Similarly, individuals with rare conditions frequently experience delayed diagnoses, limited treatment options, and a lack of understanding from others. These challenges can feel isolating, especially for pediatric patients and their families. As a future pediatric PA, I want to help bridge this gap by providing knowledgeable, compassionate, and consistent care. Through PA school, I plan to gain a strong clinical foundation that will allow me to work collaboratively with physicians and interdisciplinary teams. I envision myself advocating for early detection, accurate diagnosis, and individualized treatment plans for children with lung disease and rare conditions. Education will also be a critical part of my role. By helping families understand their child’s condition, treatment options, and long-term outlook, I hope to empower them to make informed decisions and feel more confident navigating the healthcare system. Beyond clinical care, I aim to improve lives by being an advocate for vulnerable populations. Pediatric patients depend heavily on healthcare providers to speak on their behalf. As a pediatric PA, I want to advocate for access to resources, support services, and ongoing research that advances treatment options for rare and respiratory conditions. I also hope to contribute to community outreach efforts that raise awareness about lung health and promote early intervention. Ultimately, my goal is to improve the lives of others by combining medical knowledge with empathy and advocacy. My experiences as a patient care technician have shown me the profound impact compassionate care can have, and my future as a pediatric PA will allow me to expand that impact. By caring for children with lung disease and rare medical conditions, I hope to not only improve health outcomes, but also provide comfort, understanding, and hope during some of the most challenging moments of their lives.

Giving back is something I practice daily through both my work and my mindset. Currently, I give back through my role as a patient care technician at a hospital, where I am trusted with caring for patients during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. My responsibilities include assisting with daily needs, monitoring patient comfort, and supporting nurses and medical staff, but the most meaningful part of my job goes beyond the physical tasks. I provide reassurance, compassion, and a sense of human connection to patients who may be scared, in pain, or feeling isolated. Being present for someone when they are vulnerable has shown me how powerful empathy and kindness can be. Working in healthcare at a young age has given me a strong sense of responsibility and purpose. Each shift reminds me that giving back does not always require grand gestures; sometimes it is found in listening, being patient, or offering encouragement. I have learned that even small actions can have a lasting impact on someone’s experience. This role has helped shape my values and has reinforced my desire to serve others in a meaningful way. It has also strengthened important skills such as communication, teamwork, and emotional resilience, which I carry with me both in and out of the hospital. As a 20-year-old college student, I am still learning and growing, but I am deeply motivated to continue making a positive difference in the world. My education is an important tool that will allow me to expand my impact beyond my current role. In the future, I plan to remain involved in healthcare or another service-based profession where I can advocate for individuals, support underserved communities, and contribute to improving overall well-being. I hope to work in an environment where compassion and integrity guide decision-making and where people are treated with dignity regardless of their background or circumstances. Beyond my career, I also plan to give back through community involvement, mentorship, and volunteering. I want to support younger students who may be unsure of their paths, especially those interested in healthcare but lacking guidance or resources. By sharing my experiences and encouraging others, I hope to help create opportunities and inspire confidence in future generations. Ultimately, my goal is to positively impact the world by living a life rooted in service. I want to use my skills, education, and experiences to make others feel supported, valued, and empowered. Giving back is not just something I do; it is part of who I am and who I strive to become. Through continued learning, compassion, and dedication, I hope to contribute to a healthier, more understanding, and more caring world.

Of all the people who have shaped who I am today, my mother has had the most profound impact on my life and my understanding of my own potential. Watching her navigate life’s challenges with strength, grace, and determination has taught me what resilience truly looks like and has pushed me to believe in myself even when I doubted my abilities. My mom became pregnant at 17, at a time when many people are still trying to figure out who they are. Instead of allowing fear or judgment to define her future, she stepped into responsibility with courage. Over the years, she has raised six children, often putting her own needs aside to make sure we were supported, loved, and encouraged. Growing up, I didn’t fully understand how much she carried on her shoulders, but as I’ve gotten older, I’ve come to deeply admire the strength it took for her to keep going, even when life was overwhelming. One of the most difficult experiences my mother endured was the loss of a child through stillbirth. Witnessing her move through that grief while continuing to care for our family showed me a kind of strength that cannot be taught through words alone. She allowed herself to feel pain, yet she never let it harden her heart. Instead, she continued to show love, compassion, and perseverance. From her, I learned that strength is not the absence of hardship, but the ability to move forward despite it. My mom has always emphasized independence. She taught me how to take responsibility for my actions, work hard for what I want, and believe that I am capable even when things feel uncertain. She never handed me excuses, but she always offered support. Her belief in me often came before I believed in myself, and that confidence pushed me to aim higher and work harder, especially as I navigated college and my future goals. As a college student, I often reflect on her sacrifices and resilience when I feel overwhelmed or unsure of my path. She reminds me that challenges do not determine my limits, my response to them does. Because of her example, I strive to be strong, compassionate, and determined in everything I do. My mother’s life is a constant reminder that potential is not defined by circumstances, but by perseverance. Her story has inspired me to pursue my goals with purpose and confidence, knowing that I come from strength and carry it with me every day.

Mental health has been one of the most defining parts of my life, even during moments when I tried to ignore it. As a 20-year-old college student, living with depression and anxiety has shaped how I see myself, how I interact with the world, and how I imagine my future. These struggles have not been easy, and there were times when they felt like they were holding me back. But over time, I’ve learned that they have also pushed me to grow into someone stronger, more compassionate, and more determined than I ever thought I could be. Depression and anxiety affect me in quiet but powerful ways. Some days, the hardest part is simply getting my day started, getting out of bed, opening my laptop, convincing myself that I belong where I am. Anxiety fills my mind with doubt and “what ifs,” while depression drains my energy and motivation. Even when I am surrounded by people, I can feel alone with my thoughts. Balancing college classes, family responsibilities, and plans for the future can feel overwhelming, especially when my mind turns small setbacks into heavy burdens. At the same time, managing my mental health has taught me resilience and strength. I’ve learned how to sit with discomfort, how to push forward even when my confidence is shaky, and how to remind myself that progress does not always look perfect. There is strength in continuing, even on days when I feel tired or unsure. Each time I show up for myself ,by going to class, completing an assignment, or simply asking for help ,I prove to myself that I am capable of more than my fears suggest. When my thoughts become overwhelming, I find comfort in simple things. Baking has become one of my favorite ways to cope. There is something grounding about following a recipe, measuring ingredients, and creating something warm and familiar. Baking allows me to slow down and focus on the present moment, and sharing what I make with others reminds me that even small acts of care can bring happiness. Reading offers a different kind of escape. Books allow me to step outside of my own struggles and see the world through another perspective, which often helps me feel less alone. Growing up with six siblings has also shaped who I am. Being part of a big family taught me responsibility early on and showed me the importance of patience, empathy, and support. I learned how to care for others even when I was struggling internally. My love for working with kids comes from these experiences. Children remind me of honesty, resilience, and hope. Their ability to keep going despite challenges inspires me, especially on days when my own anxiety tries to convince me to give up. My experiences with depression and anxiety are a major reason I want to become a doctor. I know what it feels like to be vulnerable and to need someone who listens with understanding rather than judgment. I want to be that person for others. Mental health has shown me that healing is not just physical ,it is emotional, mental, and deeply personal. As a future physician, especially one who hopes to work with children, I want to provide care that acknowledges the whole person, not just their symptoms. Rather than defining my limits, my mental health has shaped my purpose. It has made me more empathetic, more motivated, and more intentional about the path I am choosing. I work hard because I understand how easily motivation can slip away. I value stability because I know how fragile it can feel. Most importantly, I have learned that strength does not mean never struggling, it means continuing to grow despite the struggle. I am still learning, still healing, and still becoming the person I hope to be. My journey with depression and anxiety is ongoing, but it has helped me discover resilience, compassion, and clarity about my future. This scholarship would not only support my education, but also the dream I am working toward every day: turning my challenges into purpose and using my experiences to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

To me, resilience means continuing to move forward even when life challenges both your body and your spirit. Living with hypothyroidism and the autoimmune disorder Hashimoto’s disease has reshaped my understanding of strength. It is not about appearing unshakable, but about finding the courage to adapt, persevere, and keep pursuing my goals despite unpredictable challenges. When I was first diagnosed, I struggled to accept the limitations that came with my condition. Fatigue, brain fog, and fluctuating energy levels made academic life feel like an uphill climb, it was hard and I really struggled. As a college student, I quickly learned that resilience required more than motivation, it required strategy, self-compassion, and patience. I began developing structured routines to manage my symptoms, staying organized with my studies while prioritizing rest, nutrition, and mental health. Communicating openly with professors and peers became another act of resilience, as it taught me the importance of self-advocacy and asking for support when I needed it. Over time, I came to see my condition not as a barrier, but as a teacher. It has taught me the value of listening to my body, setting healthy boundaries, and practicing persistence in the face of uncertainty. My experience has also deepened my empathy for others. I’ve become more understanding of the hidden struggles people carry, and I strive to create supportive, inclusive spaces wherever I go. You never know what others are going through. Resilience, for me, is not about never falling, it’s about rising each time, with greater wisdom and compassion. Living with Hashimoto’s has shown me that growth often comes from discomfort, and that even on difficult days, I am capable of strength and purpose. By sharing my story, I hope to inspire others with chronic conditions to see their resilience not as a burden, but as a source of power and pride.

My name is Gabrielle Messner-Bennetch. I’m 19 years old, and I’m currently studying Molecular/Cellular Biology at Penn State University. My ultimate goal is to become a physician assistant (PA), specializing in pediatric emergency surgery. Medicine has always fascinated me, but more importantly, I’ve been drawn to the human side of healthcare, the opportunity to support, heal, and advocate for patients during some of the most vulnerable moments in their lives. I’ve played field hockey for over nine years, and that experience has deeply shaped who I am today. Being an athlete taught me the value of discipline, teamwork, communication, and resilience, qualities that I believe are essential in the medical field. On the field, I learned how to think quickly under pressure, support my teammates, and stay committed to long-term goals. These same qualities will serve me well in a surgical setting, where collaboration, precision, and trust are critical. My passion for pediatric medicine began with personal experiences in my own family. When my younger sister was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, I saw firsthand how much a medical diagnosis affects not only the patient but their entire family. Watching her navigate such a major life change at a young age made me realize how important it is for children to receive not just treatment, but compassionate, age-appropriate care. That experience was a major turning point for me, it helped me understand that I want to work specifically with children and their families, helping them feel safe, empowered, and supported. As a future PA in pediatric surgery, I plan to make a positive impact by combining clinical excellence with empathy. I want to be the provider who listens carefully, explains clearly, and makes each child feel like more than just a diagnosis. Surgery can be intimidating for anyone, especially children, so I hope to be a calming, trustworthy presence who helps guide families through difficult times with compassion and skill. Beyond the hospital, I want to advocate for equitable access to pediatric care and serve as a mentor for other young people, especially women interested in medicine, as this can be a tough road to go down. I believe that making a difference in healthcare starts with small, human-centered actions: being present, being prepared, and always putting the patient first. Through this approach, I hope to not only help individual lives but contribute to a healthcare system that’s more inclusive, empathetic, and effective for everyone.

1. I’m a 19-year-old Biology major at Penn State with a deep passion for human health and wellness. My goal is to become a physician assistant, specializing in pediatric surgery, a path shaped by both personal experiences and family challenges. Growing up without a strong father figure taught me resilience and the value of compassion, which I carry into every aspect of my life. Throughout my childhood, I dealt with recurring health issues that made hospitals and doctors’ offices a familiar space. But instead of fear, I found admiration for the medical professionals who treated me with patience and care. A major turning point came when my younger sister was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. Watching her navigate this life-changing condition ignited a desire in me to work with children and their families, to be a trusted source of support, education, and healing. These experiences have shaped my core values: empathy, perseverance, and service. They’ve fueled my passion for improving health outcomes, especially for children, and inspired my commitment to providing care that sees the whole person, not just the symptoms. 2. Empathy, to me, means stepping into someone else’s world, understanding their emotions, fears, and hopes without judgment. In healthcare, and especially in pediatrics, empathy isn’t optional; it’s essential. It allows providers to build trust with patients and families, communicate effectively, and offer care that’s both clinically sound and emotionally supportive. As an aspiring physician assistant, I see empathy as a guiding principle in how I want to practice medicine. I know what it’s like to feel unheard or misunderstood by healthcare providers, I’ve lived it. As a child dealing with chronic health issues, I often felt like decisions were made about me rather than with me. Those moments left an impression, I wanted to be someone who listens, explains, and empowers. The turning point came when my younger sister was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. Seeing her go through that diagnosis, confused, scared, and overwhelmed, gave me a new perspective on the emotional weight of illness, especially for kids. It wasn’t just about insulin and carb counting, it was about her quality of life, her independence, and her mental well-being. That experience fueled my desire to work in pediatrics, where I can support not just the child, but their entire family unit. Empathy is also vital in recognizing the unique circumstances each patient brings. Growing up without a strong father figure, I’ve learned how important it is to meet people where they are. Many children face complex social, emotional, or financial struggles that impact their health. Being empathetic means taking the time to understand those factors and adjusting care to be truly accessible and meaningful. To ensure my work is done through a human-centered lens, I will approach every patient with curiosity and humility. I’ll ask questions that go beyond symptoms: What’s worrying you? What do you need from me today? I’ll create space for patients to share their stories and be involved in their care. In pediatrics, especially, this means making sure both the child and their guardians feel respected and heard.