
Hobbies and interests
Snowboarding
Hasssan Khanafer
2,225
Bold Points1x
Finalist
Hasssan Khanafer
2,225
Bold Points1x
FinalistBio
First generation American driven to make a positive change in the world
Education
Northeastern University
Bachelor's degree programMajors:
- Behavioral Sciences
Minors:
- Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other
Lexington High School
High SchoolMiscellaneous
Desired degree level:
Bachelor's degree program
Graduate schools of interest:
Transfer schools of interest:
Majors of interest:
- Neurobiology and Neurosciences
Career
Dream career field:
Mental Health Care
Dream career goals:
To own a affordable mental health clinic that specializes in Alzheimer's research
Sports
Soccer
Varsity2009 – 202314 years
Awards
- no
Snowboarding
Intramural2013 – Present12 years
Dr. Tien Vo Healthcare Hope Scholarship
Arabs, from the moment we are born, our parents engrave in our brains the idea of becoming a doctor or an engineer. From the day I could remember, I hated the concept of being a doctor. Till I met my aunt. She taught me the wonder of the human body; however intricate each part is created to perfection in order to work in harmony together. She was no doctor, but she was fascinated by God's creation. She told me and i quote "I always wanted to be a doctor but my parents wouldnt let me". She grew up in a time where women in college was looked down upon.
All her teachings fascinated me, but they never inspired me to become a doctor. I didn't really care; I enjoyed building things and coding things, it was my passion. Then she got diagnosed with Alzheimer's. I didn't know what that was or cared to ask; I thought Auntie would always be Auntie. During this time, I was 15 years old. When i went back to visit her at 16 she couldnt remeber me. She forgot her love for medicine, and she forgot her kids. But mainly, she forgot me. I'm not an emotional guy, so when I cry, I remember. And oh, I cried a lot. It drove me insane that this perfect creation could fail so miserably. This perfection could crumble as easily as it was made. Her neurons could break as easily as they were built. I never felt heartbreak till she couldn't remember my name.
This experience with my aunt sparked my interest in neuroscience and human behavior. I wanted to know why the brain was the way it is. I want to find out why we humans have so many neurological failures, but no way to treat or address them. Why do we have such great technology but can't figure out the intricacies of the brain? I want to become a medical professional a psychiatrist, to figure these things out so no child has to feel the pain of a loved one not knowing their name.
Becoming a doctor is hard. Financially strained, I have two jobs and can barely make ends meet. My parents can't afford it, and I can't put my all into school because I'm required to pay for it. Northeastern does all it can, but money doesn't grow on trees. I learned that if I can't afford the privilege of an education, then some people can't afford proper medical care. I want a place where care for mental issues is accessible I want my financial hardship in college to reflect how i am in my practice. I don't want it to be free, I want it to be affordable.
RELEVANCE Scholarship
Arabs, from the moment we are born, our parents engrave in our brains the idea of becoming a doctor or an engineer. From the day I could remember, I hated the concept of being a doctor. Till I met my aunt. She taught me the wonder of the human body; however intricate each part is created to perfection in order to work in harmony together. She was no doctor, but she was fascinated by God's creation. She told me and i quote "I always wanted to be a doctor but my parents wouldnt let me". She grew up in a time where women in college was looked down upon.
All her teachings fascinated me, but they never inspired me to become a doctor. I didn't really care; I enjoyed building things and coding things, it was my passion. Then she got diagnosed with Alzheimer's. I didn't know what that was or cared to ask; I thought Auntie would always be Auntie. During this time, I was 15 years old. When i went back to visit her at 16 she couldnt remeber me. She forgot her love for medicine, and she forgot her kids. But mainly, she forgot me. I'm not an emotional guy, so when I cry, I remember. And oh, I cried a lot. It drove me insane that this perfect creation could fail so miserably. This perfection could crumble as easily as it was made. Her neurons could break as easily as they were built. I never felt heartbreak till she couldn't remember my name.
This experience with my aunt sparked my interest in neuroscience and human behavior. I wanted to know why the brain was the way it is. I want to find out why we humans have so many neurological failures, but no way to treat or address them. Why do we have such great technology but can't figure out the intricacies of the brain? I want to become a medical professional a psychiatrist, to figure these things out so no child has to feel the pain of a loved one not knowing their name.
Becoming a doctor is hard. Financially strained, I have two jobs and can barely make ends meet. My parents can't afford it, and I can't put my all into school because I'm required to pay for it. Northeastern does all it can, but money doesn't grow on trees. I learned that if I can't afford the privilege of an education, then some people can't afford proper medical care. I want a place where care for mental issues is accessible I want my financial hardship in college to reflect how i am in my practice. I don't want it to be free, I want it to be affordable.
SnapWell Scholarship
Arabs, from the moment we are born, our parents engrave in our brains the idea of becoming a doctor or an engineer. From the day I could remember, I hated the concept of being a doctor. Till I met my aunt. She taught me the wonder of the human body; however intricate each part is created to perfection in order to work in harmony together. She was no doctor, but she was fascinated by God's creation. She told me and i quote "I always wanted to be a doctor but my parents wouldnt let me". She grew up in a time where women in college was looked down upon.
All her teachings fascinated me, but they never inspired me to become a doctor. I didn't really care; I enjoyed building things and coding things, it was my passion. Then she got diagnosed with Alzheimer's. I didn't know what that was or cared to ask; I thought Auntie would always be Auntie. During this time, I was 15 years old. When i went back to visit her at 16 she couldnt remeber me. She forgot her love for medicine, and she forgot her kids. But mainly, she forgot me. I'm not an emotional guy, so when I cry, I remember. And oh, I cried a lot. It drove me insane that this perfect creation could fail so miserably. This perfection could crumble as easily as it was made. Her neurons could break as easily as they were built. I never felt heartbreak till she couldn't remember my name.
This experience with my aunt sparked my interest in neuroscience and human behavior. My psyche became my priority and the priority to help others. I wanted to know why the brain was the way it is. I want to find out why we humans have so many neurological failures, but no way to treat or address them. Why do we have such great technology but can't figure out the intricacies of the brain? I want to become a medical professional, a psychiatrist, to figure these things out so no child has to feel the pain of a loved one not knowing their name.
Becoming a doctor is hard. Financially strained, I have two jobs and can barely make ends meet. My parents can't afford it, and I can't put my all into school because I'm required to pay for it. Northeastern does all it can, but money doesn't grow on trees. I learned that if I can't afford the privilege of an education, then some people can't afford proper medical care. I want a place where care for mental issues is accessible I want my financial hardship in college to reflect how i am in my practice. I don't want it to be free, I want it to be affordable.
Elizabeth Schalk Memorial Scholarship
Arabs, from the moment we are born, our parents engrave in our brains the idea of becoming a doctor or an engineer. From the day I could remember, I hated the concept of being a doctor. Till I met my aunt. She taught me the wonder of the human body; however intricate each part is created to perfection in order to work in harmony together. She was no doctor, but she was fascinated by God's creation. She told me and i quote "I always wanted to be a doctor but my parents wouldnt let me". She grew up in a time where women in college was looked down upon.
All her teachings fascinated me, but they never inspired me to become a doctor. I didn't really care; I enjoyed building things and coding things, it was my passion. Then she got diagnosed with Alzheimer's. I didn't know what that was or cared to ask; I thought Auntie would always be Auntie. During this time, I was 15 years old. When i went back to visit her at 16 she couldnt remeber me. She forgot her love for medicine, and she forgot her kids. But mainly, she forgot me. I'm not an emotional guy, so when I cry, I remember. And oh, I cried a lot. It drove me insane that this perfect creation could fail so miserably. This perfection could crumble as easily as it was made. Her neurons could break as easily as they were built. I never felt heartbreak till she couldn't remember my name.
This experience with my aunt sparked my interest in neuroscience and human behavior. I wanted to know why the brain was the way it is. I want to find out why we humans have so many neurological failures, but no way to treat or address them. Why do we have such great technology but can't figure out the intricacies of the brain? I want to become a medical professional a psychiatrist, to figure these things out so no child has to feel the pain of a loved one not knowing their name.
Becoming a doctor is hard. Financially strained, I have two jobs and can barely make ends meet. My parents can't afford it, and I can't put my all into school because I'm required to pay for it. Northeastern does all it can, but money doesn't grow on trees. I learned that if I can't afford the privilege of an education, then some people can't afford proper medical care. I want a place where care for mental issues is accessible I want my financial hardship in college to reflect how i am in my practice. I don't want it to be free, I want it to be affordable.
Learner Mental Health Empowerment for Health Students Scholarship
Arabs, from the moment we are born, our parents engrave in our brains the idea of becoming a doctor or an engineer. From the day I could remember, I hated the concept of being a doctor. Till I met my aunt. She taught me the wonder of the human body; however intricate each part is created to perfection in order to work in harmony together. She was no doctor, but she was fascinated by God's creation. She told me and i quote "I always wanted to be a doctor but my parents wouldnt let me". She grew up in a time where women in college was looked down upon.
All her teachings fascinated me, but they never inspired me to become a doctor. I didn't really care; I enjoyed building things and coding things, it was my passion. Then she got diagnosed with Alzheimer's. I didn't know what that was or cared to ask; I thought Auntie would always be Auntie. During this time, I was 15 years old. When i went back to visit her at 16 she couldnt remeber me. She forgot her love for medicine, and she forgot her kids. But mainly, she forgot me. I'm not an emotional guy, so when I cry, I remember. And oh, I cried a lot. It drove me insane that this perfect creation could fail so miserably. This perfection could crumble as easily as it was made. Her neurons could break as easily as they were built. I never felt heartbreak till she couldn't remember my name.
This experience with my aunt sparked my interest in neuroscience and human behavior. I wanted to know why the brain was the way it is. I want to find out why we humans have so many neurological failures, but no way to treat or address them. Why do we have such great technology but can't figure out the intricacies of the brain? I want to become a medical professional a psychiatrist, to figure these things out so no child has to feel the pain of a loved one not knowing their name.
Becoming a doctor is hard. Financially strained, I have two jobs and can barely make ends meet. My parents can't afford it, and I can't put my all into school because I'm required to pay for it. Northeastern does all it can, but money doesn't grow on trees. I learned that if I can't afford the privilege of an education, then some people can't afford proper medical care. I want a place where care for mental issues is accessible I want my financial hardship in college to reflect how i am in my practice. I don't want it to be free, I want it to be affordable.
Bulkthreads.com's "Let's Aim Higher" Scholarship
Arabs, from the moment we are born, our parents engrave in our brains the idea of becoming a doctor or an engineer. From the day I could remember, I hated the concept of being a doctor. Till I met my aunt. She taught me the wonder of the human body; however intricate each part is created to perfection in order to work in harmony together. She was no doctor, but she was fascinated by God's creation. She told me and i quote "I always wanted to be a doctor but my parents wouldnt let me". She grew up in a time where women in college was looked down upon.
All her teachings fascinated me, but they never inspired me to become a doctor. I didn't really care; I enjoyed building things and coding things, it was my passion. Then she got diagnosed with Alzheimer's. I didn't know what that was or cared to ask; I thought Auntie would always be Auntie. During this time, I was 15 years old. When i went back to visit her at 16 she couldnt remeber me. She forgot her love for medicine, and she forgot her kids. But mainly, she forgot me. I'm not an emotional guy, so when I cry, I remember. And oh, I cried a lot. It drove me insane that this perfect creation could fail so miserably. This perfection could crumble as easily as it was made. Her neurons could break as easily as they were built. I never felt heartbreak till she couldn't remember my name.
This experience with my aunt sparked my interest in neuroscience and human behavior. I wanted to know why the brain was the way it is. I want to find out why we humans have so many neurological failures, but no way to treat or address them. Why do we have such great technology but can't figure out the intricacies of the brain? I want to become a medical professional a psychiatrist, to figure these things out so no child has to feel the pain of a loved one not knowing their name.
Becoming a doctor is hard. Financially strained, I have two jobs and can barely make ends meet. My parents can't afford it, and I can't put my all into school because I'm required to pay for it. Northeastern does all it can, but money doesn't grow on trees. I learned that if I can't afford the privilege of an education, then some people can't afford proper medical care. I want a place where care for mental issues is accessible I want my financial hardship in college to reflect how i am in my practice. I don't want it to be free, I want it to be affordable. because No one deserves to feel like they have been forgotten
Elijah's Helping Hand Scholarship Award
Arabs, from the moment we are born, our parents engrave in our brains the idea of becoming a doctor or an engineer. From the day I could remember, I hated the concept of being a doctor. Till I met my aunt. She taught me the wonder of the human body; however intricate each part is created to perfection in order to work in harmony together. She was no doctor, but she was fascinated by God's creation. She told me and i quote "I always wanted to be a doctor but my parents wouldnt let me". She grew up in a time where women in college was looked down upon.
All her teachings fascinated me, but they never inspired me to become a doctor. I didn't really care; I enjoyed building things and coding things, it was my passion. Then she got diagnosed with Alzheimer's. I didn't know what that was or cared to ask; I thought Auntie would always be Auntie. During this time, I was 15 years old. When i went back to visit her at 16 she couldnt remeber me. She forgot her love for medicine, and she forgot her kids. But mainly, she forgot me. I'm not an emotional guy, so when I cry, I remember. And oh, I cried a lot. It drove me insane that this perfect creation could fail so miserably. This perfection could crumble as easily as it was made. Her neurons could break as easily as they were built. I never felt heartbreak till she couldn't remember my name.
This experience with my aunt sparked my interest in neuroscience and human behavior. I wanted to know why the brain was the way it is. I want to find out why we humans have so many neurological failures, but no way to treat or address them. Why do we have such great technology but can't figure out the intricacies of the brain? I want to become a medical professional a psychiatrist, to figure these things out so no child has to feel the pain of a loved one not knowing their name.
Becoming a doctor is hard. Financially strained, I have two jobs and can barely make ends meet. My parents can't afford it, and I can't put my all into school because I'm required to pay for it. Northeastern does all it can, but money doesn't grow on trees. I learned that if I can't afford the privilege of an education, then some people can't afford proper medical care. I want a place where care for mental issues is accessible I want my financial hardship in college to reflect how i am in my practice. I don't want it to be free, I want it to be affordable.
Healing Self and Community Scholarship
Becoming a doctor is hard. Financially strained, I have two jobs and can barely make ends meet. My parents can't afford it, and I can't put my all into school because I'm required to pay for it. Northeastern does all it can, but money doesn't grow on trees. I learned that if I can't afford the privilege of an education, then some people can't afford proper medical care. I want a place where care for mental issues is accessible I want my financial hardship in college to reflect how i am in my practice. I don't want it to be free, I want it to be affordable.
Essentially, I want to donate some of my time to people in need. And make my time affordable. Since health cares expensive because poeple over charge for their time, and expertise.
Fishers of Men-tal Health Scholarship
Arabs, from the moment we are born, our parents engrave in our brains the idea of becoming a doctor or an engineer. From the day I could remember, I hated the concept of being a doctor. Till I met my aunt. She taught me the wonder of the human body; however intricate each part is created to perfection in order to work in harmony together. She was no doctor, but she was fascinated by God's creation. She told me and I quote "I always wanted to be a doctor but my parents wouldn't let me". She grew up in an era when women in college were often looked down upon.
All her teachings fascinated me, but they never inspired me to become a doctor. I didn't really care; I enjoyed building things and coding things, it was my passion. Then she got diagnosed with Alzheimer's. I didn't know what that was or cared to ask; I thought Auntie would always be Auntie. During this time, I was 15 years old. When I went back to visit her at 16 she couldn't remember me. She forgot her love for medicine, and she forgot her kids. But mainly, she forgot me. I'm not an emotional guy, so when I cry, I remember. And oh, I cried a lot. It drove me insane that this perfect creation could fail so miserably. This perfection could crumble as easily as it was made. Her neurons could break as easily as they were built. I never felt heartbreak till she couldn't remember my name.
This experience with my aunt sparked my interest in neuroscience and human behavior. I wanted to know why the brain was the way it is. I want to find out why we humans have so many neurological failures, but no way to treat or address them. Why do we have such great technology but can't figure out the intricacies of the brain? I want to become a medical professional, a psychiatrist, to figure these things out so no child has to feel the pain of a loved one not knowing their name.
Beyond that, in a place like the south of Lebanon, mental health is looked down upon. People are considered crazy before depressed. As my aunt lost more and more of her memory, it caused my uncle to become silent. Talking became a chore for him. He wouldn't smile, and I wouldn't see him walking around the village as he used to. He changed completely. He was a new man. A man whom only a few of us in the family would acknowledge as having obvious depression. Where hospitals saw him as crazy, I couldn't help but hate the health care system in place. Beyond that, it's expensive. Getting a professional who would see his mental decline for what it is was more expensive than getting surgery, since there are so few in a village like mine. As of today, he still sits at home with my aunt, who can't remember who he is.
Becoming a doctor is hard. Financially strained, I have two jobs and can barely make ends meet. My parents can't afford it, and I can't put my all into school because I'm required to pay for it. Northeastern does all it can, but money doesn't grow on trees. I learned that if I can't afford the privilege of an education, then some people can't afford proper medical care. I want a place where care for mental issues is accessible. I want my financial hardship in college to reflect how I am in my practice. I don't want it to be free, I want it to be affordable. Beyond that, I want to become a leading researcher in the field to help educate communities like mine that this is a completely normal thing for a human to feel. He's no crazy, he's not cursed by the devil. He's human. The creation my aunt loves can be depressed, can experience these things.
My goal is to bridge neuroscience research with community care in underserved areas. I want to develop accessible mental health programs that challenge cultural stigma while providing quality treatment. The ripple effects of diseases like Alzheimer's create secondary mental health challenges that often go unrecognized. My uncle's depression deserves the same medical attention as my aunt's cognitive decline.
Through research, I hope to advance our understanding of neurodegenerative diseases and their psychological impacts on families. Through practice, I want to ensure this knowledge reaches communities overlooked by traditional healthcare systems. I aim to create replicable models of care that prove quality mental healthcare doesn't require unlimited resources—just understanding, compassion, and innovative solutions.
This journey has taught me that medicine involves preserving dignity, challenging stigma, and ensuring everyone has access to mental healthcare regardless of background or economic status. My aunt may not remember her lessons about human creation, but they live on through my commitment to protecting others' cognitive and emotional wellbeing. Her unfulfilled medical dreams and my uncle's ongoing struggle will fuel my dedication to making mental healthcare accessible and removing the shame that prevents families from seeking help.
In my future psychiatric practice, I envision combining cutting-edge neuroscience with culturally sensitive community outreach. I want to establish programs in rural areas like southern Lebanon where mental health education can transform how families understand conditions like depression and dementia. By training local healthcare workers and educating communities about the biological basis of mental illness, we can replace superstition and shame with science and support.
My personal experiences have revealed gaps in both medical training and healthcare delivery that I'm determined to address. Too often, physicians dismiss cultural factors or fail to recognize how economic barriers affect treatment compliance. I want to research and develop interventions specifically designed for resource-limited settings while maintaining the highest standards of evidence-based care.
The intersection of my aunt's Alzheimer's and my uncle's depression illustrates how neurological and psychiatric conditions interconnect within family systems. Understanding these relationships is crucial for developing comprehensive treatment approaches that address not just individual patients but entire support networks.
My commitment extends beyond individual patient care to systemic change in how mental health is conceptualized and delivered in underserved communities. Through research publication, community education, and policy advocacy, I hope to influence broader conversations about mental healthcare accessibility and cultural competency in medical practice.
Somebody Cares About Science - Robert Stockwell Memorial Scholarship
Arabs, from the moment we are born, our parents engrave in our brains the idea of becoming a doctor or an engineer. From the day I could remember, I hated the concept of being a doctor. Till I met my aunt. She taught me the wonder of the human body; however intricate each part is created to perfection in order to work in harmony together. She was no doctor, but she was fascinated by God's creation. She told me and i quote "I always wanted to be a doctor but my parents wouldnt let me". She grew up in a time where women in college was looked down upon.
All her teachings fascinated me, but they never inspired me to become a doctor. I didn't really care; I enjoyed building things and coding things, it was my passion. Then she got diagnosed with Alzheimer's. I didn't know what that was or cared to ask; I thought Auntie would always be Auntie. During this time, I was 15 years old. When i went back to visit her at 16 she couldnt remeber me. She forgot her love for medicine, and she forgot her kids. But mainly, she forgot me. I'm not an emotional guy, so when I cry, I remember. And oh, I cried a lot. It drove me insane that this perfect creation could fail so miserably. This perfection could crumble as easily as it was made. Her neurons could break as easily as they were built. I never felt heartbreak till she couldn't remember my name.
This experience with my aunt sparked my interest in neuroscience and human behavior. I wanted to know why the brain was the way it is. I want to find out why we humans have so many neurological failures, but no way to treat or address them. Why do we have such great technology but can't figure out the intricacies of the brain? I want to become a medical professional a psychiatrist, to figure these things out so no child has to feel the pain of a loved one not knowing their name.
Becoming a doctor is hard. Financially strained, I have two jobs and can barely make ends meet. My parents can't afford it, and I can't put my all into school because I'm required to pay for it. Northeastern does all it can, but money doesn't grow on trees. I learned that if I can't afford the privilege of an education, then some people can't afford proper medical care. I want a place where care for mental issues is accessible I want my financial hardship in college to reflect how i am in my practice. I don't want it to be free, I want it to be affordable.
Brian J Boley Memorial Scholarship
Arabs, from the moment we are born, our parents engrave in our brains the idea of becoming a doctor or an engineer. From the day I could remember, I hated the concept of being a doctor. Till I met my aunt. She taught me the wonder of the human body; however intricate each part is created to perfection in order to work in harmony together. She was no doctor, but she was fascinated by God's creation. She told me and i quote "I always wanted to be a doctor but my parents wouldnt let me". She grew up in a time where women in college was looked down upon.
All her teachings fascinated me, but they never inspired me to become a doctor. I didn't really care; I enjoyed building things and coding things, it was my passion. Then she got diagnosed with Alzheimer's. I didn't know what that was or cared to ask; I thought Auntie would always be Auntie. During this time, I was 15 years old. When i went back to visit her at 16 she couldnt remeber me. She forgot her love for medicine, and she forgot her kids. But mainly, she forgot me. I'm not an emotional guy, so when I cry, I remember. And oh, I cried a lot. It drove me insane that this perfect creation could fail so miserably. This perfection could crumble as easily as it was made. Her neurons could break as easily as they were built. I never felt heartbreak till she couldn't remember my name.
This experience with my aunt sparked my interest in neuroscience and human behavior. I wanted to know why the brain was the way it is. I want to find out why we humans have so many neurological failures, but no way to treat or address them. Why do we have such great technology but can't figure out the intricacies of the brain? I want to become a medical professional a psychiatrist, to figure these things out so no child has to feel the pain of a loved one not knowing their name.
Becoming a doctor is hard. Financially strained, I have two jobs and can barely make ends meet. My parents can't afford it, and I can't put my all into school because I'm required to pay for it. Northeastern does all it can, but money doesn't grow on trees. I learned that if I can't afford the privilege of an education, then some people can't afford proper medical care. I want a place where care for mental issues is accessible I want my financial hardship in college to reflect how i am in my practice. I don't want it to be free, I want it to be affordable.
Henry Respert Alzheimer's and Dementia Awareness Scholarship
Arabs, from the moment we are born, our parents engrave in our brains the idea of becoming a doctor or an engineer. From the day I could remember, I hated the concept of being a doctor. Till I met my aunt. She taught me the wonder of the human body; however intricate each part is created to perfection in order to work in harmony together. She was no doctor, but she was fascinated by God's creation. She told me, and I quote, "I always wanted to be a doctor, but my parents wouldn't let me". She grew up in an era when women in college were often looked down upon.
All her teachings fascinated me, but they never inspired me to become a doctor. I didn't really care; I enjoyed building things and coding things, it was my passion. Then she got diagnosed with Alzheimer's. I didn't know what that was or cared to ask; I thought Auntie would always be Auntie. During this time, I was 15 years old. When I went back to visit her at 16, she couldn't remember me. She forgot her love for medicine, and she forgot her kids. But mainly, she forgot me. I'm not an emotional guy, so when I cry, I remember. And oh, I cried a lot. It drove me insane that this perfect creation she had obsessed over so heavily could fail so miserably. This perfection could crumble as easily as it was made. Her neurons could break as easily as they were built. I never felt heartbreak till she couldn't remember my name.
This experience with my aunt sparked my interest in neuroscience and human behavior. I wanted to know why the brain was the way it is. I want to find out why we humans have so many neurological failures, but no way to treat or address them. Why do we have such great technology but can't figure out the intricacies of the brain? I want to become a medical professional, a psychiatrist, to figure these things out so no child has to feel the pain of a loved one not knowing their name.
Becoming a doctor is hard. Financially strained, I have two jobs and can barely make ends meet. My parents can't afford it, and I can't put my all into school because I'm required to pay for it. Northeastern does all it can, but money doesn't grow on trees. I learned that if I can't afford the privilege of an education, then some people can't afford proper medical care. I want a place where care for mental issues is accessible I want my financial hardship in college to reflect how i am in my practice. I don't want it to be free, I want it to be affordable.
Overall, this experience has taught me that memories, life, and people are everything. Memories in general are the most important thing someone can have. To have that taken away is a great tragedy. It taught me to appreciate life and people, regardless of the scenario. I can learn from anyone, as I did from my aunt.
Manny and Sylvia Weiner Medical Scholarship
Arabs, from the moment we are born, our parents engrave in our brains the idea of becoming a doctor or an engineer. From the day I could remember, I hated the concept of being a doctor. Till I met my aunt. She taught me the wonder of the human body; however intricate each part is created to perfection in order to work in harmony together. She was no doctor, but she was fascinated by God's creation. She told me and i quote "I always wanted to be a doctor but my parents wouldnt let me". She grew up in a time where women in college was looked down upon.
All her teachings fascinated me, but they never inspired me to become a doctor. I didn't really care; I enjoyed building things and coding things, it was my passion. Then she got diagnosed with Alzheimer's. I didn't know what that was or cared to ask; I thought Auntie would always be Auntie. During this time, I was 15 years old. When i went back to visit her at 16 she couldnt remeber me. She forgot her love for medicine, and she forgot her kids. But mainly, she forgot me. I'm not an emotional guy, so when I cry, I remember. And oh, I cried a lot. It drove me insane that this perfect creation could fail so miserably. This perfection could crumble as easily as it was made. Her neurons could break as easily as they were built. I never felt heartbreak till she couldn't remember my name.
This experience with my aunt sparked my interest in neuroscience and human behavior. I wanted to know why the brain was the way it is. I want to find out why we humans have so many neurological failures, but no way to treat or address them. Why do we have such great technology but can't figure out the intricacies of the brain? I want to become a medical professional a psychiatrist, to figure these things out so no child has to feel the pain of a loved one not knowing their name.
Becoming a doctor is hard. Financially strained, I have two jobs and can barely make ends meet. My parents can't afford it, and I can't put my all into school because I'm required to pay for it. Northeastern does all it can, but money doesn't grow on trees. I learned that if I can't afford the privilege to get an education, then some people can't afford to get proper medical care. I want a place where care for mental issues is accessible I want my financial hardship in college to reflect how i am in my practice. I dont want it to be free I want it to be afforadable.
STEAM Generator Scholarship
I am a first-generation immigrant; my family moved from Lebanon and Kuwait. Born in the USA, I moved to Qatar when I was four years old. Qatar is home for me. Almost all of my childhood memories, friends, and life are there. Leaving Qatar was a big and emotional change. To this day, the USA has never felt like home. I am writing this essay from home, comfortably in Qatar. When I am in the US, I consider my life there as a job, and it has significantly influenced my education.
The switch to the American educational system made me despise school entirely. My biggest fear was being forced to socialize in an environment where people would not understand me. The very thought of being misunderstood is spooky. My first two years in the American education system were an academic disaster. I struggled to understand the social norms, expectations, and standards of the American educational system. They gave me a B+ when I felt I deserved an A. The whole idea of rubrics didn't make sense to me. Group projects proved to be quite a struggle for me since, for the longest time, the concept of collaboration and working together was a hurdle.
Meeting the challenge of adopting a new educational system and culture was overwhelming. I often felt isolated or out of place and unable to catch up with my peers. This sense of alienation affected my academic performance and my self-esteem. I was used to the educational environment in Qatar, which was more familiar and comfortable. The sharp contrast between the two systems left me feeling lost and discouraged.
However, over time, I began to view these difficulties as lessons. I realized that these very experiences put me in an entirely new light to view and understand the world around me and human behavior and learning. This realization sparked my interest in knowing why people think, react, and learn differently in different cultural contexts. Understanding the human brain and its functions became something of a wonder to me.
Out of conquering these challenges, I developed an unwavering passion for behavioral neuroscience. I desired to understand why people behave the way they do and how their brains influence their actions and decisions. This new interest completely shifted my career focus from engineering to behavioral neuroscience. I was determined to explore this field and contribute to our understanding of the human mind.
My journey has taught me resilience and adaptability. I learned to embrace change and regard challenges as opportunities for personal and intellectual growth. Despite the difficulties, I am grateful for the experiences that have shaped me into who I am today. I am excited about behavioral neuroscience and understanding the complexities of human behavior and cognition. My background and experiences have given me a unique perspective that I believe will be very valuable in my studies and future career.
Eden Alaine Memorial Scholarship
My Grandfather was the most hardworking man I know. He raised 11 kids and put them all through college, even when certain people and economic groups looked down upon college. He always said, "I don't care how God made my child. They deserve and need to have access and opportunity to be educated." His death shaped my life significantly. He always valued education. He saw education as the key to improving the world we live in today.
My Grandfather lived in Kuwait. He was a part of the minority group in Kuwait of people fleeing Lebanon during the war In Kuwait. Women going to college were looked down upon. Also, Children who didn't meet a certain grade threshold in high school were limited in the careers they could pursue after high school. And some were entirely denied opportunities to go to college. But he didn't let the Kuwaiti system stop his children from getting educated. He sent some of his kids to Europe, India, Lebanon, America, and Canada. He was determined to educate his kids, although he was uneducated.
His death, legacy, and memory have profoundly influenced my perspective on education. I don't measure my success by grades; I measure it by the knowledge I gain. If I score 100% in a class but learn nothing, I consider it a failure. This shift in focus has opened my eyes to the true value of education.
His determination to educate his children has also shaped my understanding of family and my future role as a parent. He gave everything to his family-every dime, every cent, every waking moment. The challenge of putting 11 kids through college while working a minimum wage job in Kuwait was a testament to his unwavering commitment. His story resonates with me, reminding me of the importance of family values and the sacrifices we make for our loved ones.
This accomplishment showed me that no matter what it is, you can do anything with hard work and determination. That's why I've spent every waking moment working toward my passion, which is using technology to improve the mental health field. As he grew older, he never lost his memory, but some of his relatives began to lose theirs. It deeply affected him, and I want to dedicate my career to improving our understanding of the brain and its associated diseases. He will forever be my idol and my hero in this life and beyond.
ADHDAdvisor's Mental Health Advocate Scholarship for Health Students
However, my unique viewpoint on medicine, particularly mental health, distinguishes me from other applicants. I'm' quite enthusiastic about this subject, and we're handling it in ways that may be better. While traditional medicine has made significant advances, we sometimes ignore the power of holistic medicine and natural healing. Our bodies are brilliant—they adapt and evolve in ways that are sometimes beyond our comprehension. We see this in large-scale evolution and more diminutive, everyday examples, such as how our tolerance to certain substances increases the more we are exposed to them. I believe that by integrating this understanding into our approach to mental health, we can make a significant impact on the field.
This flexibility is one of the reasons I doubt the broad use of pharmacological medications in mental health care. While these drugs might give temporary comfort, they frequently fail to address the underlying causes of mental health issues. Instead, they create dependency and tolerance, requiring higher doses over time to achieve the same effect. This cycle can ultimately do more harm than good. I believe there's a better way—a more natural and holistic approach that considers the body and mind as interconnected systems. By addressing the underlying issues through holistic healing methods, we can achieve more sustainable and meaningful improvements in mental health.
Holistic medicine seeks to treat the complete person rather than just the symptoms. It considers physical, emotional, and spiritual wellness, resulting in a more holistic approach to treatment. Mindfulness, therapy, adequate diet, exercise, and community support can all have a significant impact on mental health while avoiding the hazards associated with long-term pharmaceutical usage. For example, I've' witnessed how mindfulness and therapy may help people manage their anxiety and sadness efficiently. Incorporating these strategies with contemporary medicine can give a more long-term and meaningful approach to mental health improvement.
My passion for mental health and belief in holistic healing drive me to want to make a difference. With this scholarship, I'll be able to pursue my education and work toward a future in which mental health care is more efficient, compassionate, and comprehensive. I want to be a part of the transformation that redefines how we think about and treat mental health, ensuring that care is accessible, sustainable, and effective for everyone.
Jim Coots Scholarship
This scholarship would help me pay for college and significantly reduce my family's financial burden. Receiving this scholarship will not only allow me to focus more on my academics and less on financial stress but also provide relief to my family by ensuring that their financial duties are shared. This would allow me to flourish academically and achieve my goals without hesitation.
However, my unique viewpoint on medicine, particularly mental health, distinguishes me from other applicants. I'm' quite enthusiastic about this subject, and we're handling it in ways that may be better. While traditional medicine has made significant advances, we sometimes ignore the power of holistic medicine and natural healing. Our bodies are brilliant—they adapt and evolve in ways that are sometimes beyond our comprehension. We see this in large-scale evolution and more diminutive, everyday examples, such as how our tolerance to certain substances increases the more we are exposed to them. I believe that by integrating this understanding into our approach to mental health, we can make a significant impact on the field.
This flexibility is one of the reasons I doubt the broad use of pharmacological medications in mental health care. While these drugs might give temporary comfort, they frequently fail to address the underlying causes of mental health issues. Instead, they create dependency and tolerance, requiring higher doses over time to achieve the same effect. This cycle can ultimately do more harm than good. I believe there's a better way—a more natural and holistic approach that considers the body and mind as interconnected systems. By addressing the underlying issues through holistic healing methods, we can achieve more sustainable and meaningful improvements in mental health.
Holistic medicine seeks to treat the complete person rather than just the symptoms. It considers physical, emotional, and spiritual wellness, resulting in a more holistic approach to treatment. Mindfulness, therapy, adequate diet, exercise, and community support can all have a significant impact on mental health while avoiding the hazards associated with long-term pharmaceutical usage. For example, I've' witnessed how mindfulness and therapy may help people manage their anxiety and sadness efficiently. Incorporating these strategies with contemporary medicine can give a more long-term and meaningful approach to mental health improvement.
My passion for mental health and belief in holistic healing drive me to want to make a difference. With this scholarship, I'll be able to pursue my education and work toward a future in which mental health care is more efficient, compassionate, and comprehensive. I want to be a part of the transformation that redefines how we think about and treat mental health, ensuring that care is accessible, sustainable, and effective for everyone.
Norton "Adapt and Overcome" Scholarship
Showing up to school was challenging this year. In popular news were attacks on Lebanon and being Lebense myself. I lost many family members, people who were some of the closest to me, and waking up every day to lousy news became a devastating routine. It felt like my world was crumbling, sending me into a downward spiral that was hard to recover. Everything around me was being affected. Friends. Grades. And especially my health. I couldn't sleep because of the time zone difference between the USA and Lebanon, and I had to know what was happening to rest easily, knowing my family had a chance of being okay.
Adapting to this new reality was especially hard because this was my first year in college. It was already a time of significant transition, and having to balance the weight of such heavy loss while navigating a new academic and social environment made things almost unbearable. I often questioned how I could move forward, let alone stay focused on my education. There were days when the pain was so overwhelming that showing up to class and being engaged felt like an impossible task. The pain and tremendous strain of beginning a new chapter in life made showing up to class and being engaged a massive challenge.
Despite these obstacles, I resolved to persist. The most helpful thing I did was use positive psychology techniques such as mindfulness, gratitude journaling, and cognitive reframing to restore my mentality and concentration. Instead of doing nothing about the loss and pain, I chose to focus on my strengths in the hopes that everything would eventually fall into place. Initially, this approach was not straightforward, but it gave me a sense of purpose and direction when I felt utterly lost.
One of my greatest strengths has always been fitness. I've been active my entire life. I knew returning to the gym would provide an outlet for my emotions and give me a sense of control and accomplishment. Working out became a form of therapy for me, a way to channel my grief into something productive and empowering. Similarly, I began taking on more hours at work. I've always been good at working hard and keeping focused on things, and immersing myself in my work helped me reclaim a feeling of regularity and security.
Slowly, when I focused on these areas, I discovered that concentrating on academics became easier. I learned to compartmentalize my sadness and direct my focus to places where I might excel. This momentum spilled over into my academic life. Showing up every day was an act of resilience. It's a source of pride for me, a testament to the importance of perseverance and inner strength.
STEAM Generator Scholarship
I am a first-generation immigrant; my family moved from Lebanon and Kuwait. Born in the USA, I moved to Qatar when I was four years old. Qatar is home for me. Almost all of my childhood memories, friends, and life are there. Leaving Qatar was a big and emotional change. To this day, the USA has never felt like home. I am writing this essay from home, comfortably in Qatar. When I am in the US, I consider my life there as a job, and it has significantly influenced my education.
The switch to the American educational system made me despise school entirely. My biggest fear was being forced to socialize in an environment where people would not understand me. The very thought of being misunderstood is spooky. My first two years in the American education system were an academic disaster. I struggled to understand the social norms, expectations, and standards of the American educational system. They gave me a B+ when I felt I deserved an A. The whole idea of rubrics didn't make sense to me. Group projects proved to be quite a struggle for me since, for the longest time, the concept of collaboration and working together was a hurdle.
Meeting the challenge of adopting a new educational system and culture was overwhelming. I often felt isolated or out of place and unable to catch up with my peers. This sense of alienation affected my academic performance and my self-esteem. I was used to the educational environment in Qatar, which was more familiar and comfortable. The sharp contrast between the two systems left me feeling lost and discouraged.
However, over time, I began to view these difficulties as lessons. I realized that these very experiences put me in an entirely new light to view and understand the world around me and human behavior and learning. This realization sparked my interest in knowing why people think, react, and learn differently in different cultural contexts. Understanding the human brain and its functions became something of a wonder to me.
Out of conquering these challenges, I developed an unwavering passion for behavioral neuroscience. I desired to understand why people behave the way they do and how their brains influence their actions and decisions. This new interest completely shifted my career focus from engineering to behavioral neuroscience. I was determined to explore this field and contribute to our understanding of the human mind.
My journey has taught me resilience and adaptability. I learned to embrace change and regard challenges as opportunities for personal and intellectual growth. Despite the difficulties, I am grateful for the experiences that have shaped me into who I am today. I am excited about behavioral neuroscience and understanding the complexities of human behavior and cognition. My background and experiences have given me a unique perspective that I believe will be very valuable in my studies and future career.
William A. Stuart Dream Scholarship
I aspire to epitomize a profound understanding of the intricate intersections between neuroscience, engineering, and psychology, with the potential to reshape the treatment landscape for neurological and psychological disorders. My ambition to pursue a PhD in neuroengineering is rooted in a critical assessment of traditional invasive surgical methods, recognizing their limitations and inherent risks. By advocating for the integration of engineering principles and cutting-edge technologies into neurosurgical practices, I aim to revolutionize the field, making procedures less invasive and more accessible.
My vision encompasses a transformative shift towards innovative surgical techniques that prioritize patient well-being and long-term outcomes. I aspire to lead research endeavors aimed at refining and advancing neurosurgical interventions, exploring novel methodologies and technologies to streamline procedures, minimize complications, and optimize patient recovery. With my expertise in neuroengineering, I envision contributing significantly to the evolution of neurosurgery, driving forward advancements that enhance treatment efficacy and improve the lives of patients worldwide.
Simultaneously, my ambitions extend into the realm of behavioral neuroscience within the industry, reflecting a deep-seated passion for understanding the complex interplay between neurological and psychological phenomena. As a behavioral neuroscientist, I envision leveraging insights from neuroscience, psychology, and related disciplines to develop innovative interventions for individuals grappling with neurological and psychological challenges.
My holistic approach to addressing the complexities of human cognition and behavior underscores my commitment to making meaningful contributions towards improving mental health outcomes. I envision myself at the forefront of interdisciplinary collaborations, working alongside experts from diverse fields to translate theoretical knowledge into practical applications that positively impact individuals' lives.
My overarching goal is to bridge the gap between theoretical research and real-world applications, driving innovation that addresses the diverse needs of individuals with neurological and psychological disorders. However, I recognize the financial barriers associated with pursuing advanced education, acknowledging the importance of securing scholarships and grants to support my academic endeavors.
By actively seeking out opportunities like this scholarship, I demonstrate my determination to overcome these challenges and pursue my academic and professional aspirations with unwavering dedication. With financial support, I will be better positioned to focus on my studies, research, and industry engagements, ultimately realizing my potential to drive positive change within the fields of neuroengineering and behavioral neuroscience.
In summary, my multidisciplinary approach, coupled with my unwavering dedication and commitment, positions me as a future leader in the integration of neuroscience, engineering, and psychology. My vision for advancing less invasive neurosurgical techniques and developing innovative interventions in behavioral neuroscience reflects a deep understanding of the complexities inherent in neurological and psychological disorders. With this scholarship, I am poised to embark on a transformative journey that will not only enrich my own academic and professional pursuits but also contribute significantly to the advancement of these critical fields, ultimately benefiting countless individuals worldwide.