During one of my clinical rotations in the emergency room while I was training to become an EMT, I had an experience with an elderly patient that profoundly changed my perspective on medicine. This particular patient had been brought in from a nursing home and, as I later learned, was entirely deaf. She communicated through American Sign Language (ASL), a language not widely spoken or understood by most healthcare providers. At that time, the medical team, including the nurses I was working alongside, seemed too busy to address the unique needs of this patient. She was stressed, confused, and unable to communicate with anyone, which only added to her discomfort. As I observed the situation, I noticed the lack of interaction between the patient and the staff. The environment was hectic, with everyone focused on their tasks, but no one seemed to acknowledge this woman’s need for connection. In that moment, I realized that while the staff was doing their best, there was a critical element of care that was being overlooked—the human aspect of communication. Knowing a little ASL, I felt an immediate responsibility to step in. I approached the patient, made sure she could see me clearly, and began to communicate with her through sign language. I explained to her what was happening, why she was there, and what we would do to help her feel more comfortable. Not only was I able to provide this woman with the information she needed, but I also assisted the ER team by providing her name, date of birth, and medical history, which helped expedite her treatment. The relief on her face was palpable. For the first time since she had arrived, she felt heard and understood, and it made all the difference. The simple act of communication, which many would take for granted, meant the world to this patient. What struck me most, though, was the gratitude she expressed. As she was being wheeled out of her room to receive secondary treatment in the ICU, she repeatedly signed "thank you." Her eyes locked onto mine as if she wanted to communicate more than words could express. She held that gaze as long as she could, and I could feel the deep emotional connection between us, even in that brief moment. It was in that instant that I fully realized how vital it is to treat each patient not just as a case to be solved, but as a person with their own unique needs, emotions, and circumstances. That experience left a lasting impression on me, and as I prepare to enter the nursing field, I carry the lesson that every patient deserves to be treated with respect, empathy, and individualized care. It’s a lesson I will hold dear, striving to approach each person I encounter as if they were my own family—because, to someone, they undoubtedly are. In this field, every small act of kindness and understanding can have a lasting impact, and I want to be the kind of nurse who makes that difference.

Throughout my life, I have dedicated myself to a wide range of activities that reflect my passion for service, leadership, and personal growth. From firefighting and emergency medical services to playing trumpet and jazz drums in my school band, I have sought to challenge myself and contribute to my community in meaningful ways. Pursuing an Army ROTC scholarship will provide me with the financial support and opportunities necessary to continue my education and fulfill my aspirations of becoming a nurse in the military. My commitment to service is deeply rooted in my upbringing. As a firefighter and EMT, I have responded to emergencies where every second counts. These experiences have reinforced my ability to stay calm under pressure, make critical decisions, and work as part of a team. Firefighting has also strengthened my physical endurance and mental resilience—qualities that will serve me well as an Army officer and nurse. Helping people in their most vulnerable moments has affirmed my desire to continue serving on an even greater scale in the military. Beyond emergency response, I am the daughter of an entrepreneur. My parents started a CPR certifying business not long ago, and it has changed my perspective on what hard-work really is. Late nights and endless paperwork are most times enough to turn one away from being a business owner, but my parents persevered, again embodying the traits of militant discipline I've always been raised to respect. Another defining aspect of my life is my family’s military legacy. My father was a Tomb Guard Soldier, and my ancestors have served in every major American war since the Civil War. Growing up with such strong role models instilled in me a deep sense of duty and pride in serving my country. Joining the Army ROTC program is not only a step toward my dream career but also an opportunity to continue my family’s tradition of military service. The financial burden of college is a challenge that many students face, and I am no exception. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to focus on my studies and training without the added stress of financial constraints. It would provide me with the resources to excel academically, develop my leadership skills, and prepare for a future as an Army nurse. With the support of this scholarship, I can dedicate myself fully to my education and service, ensuring that I am the best possible leader and caregiver for those who rely on me. I am grateful for the experiences and lessons that my activities have provided me, and I am eager to apply them in my future endeavors. The Army ROTC scholarship represents more than just financial assistance—it is an investment in my potential to make a difference. With this support, I will continue to serve, lead, and inspire others, upholding the values of dedication, resilience, and selfless service that have guided me throughout my life.

Growing up, I witnessed firsthand how emergencies could strike at any moment, often leaving people vulnerable and unprepared. One issue in my community that deeply resonated with me was the lack of awareness and preparedness for fire-related emergencies. Many people didn’t know basic fire safety procedures or how to respond in crisis situations. Seeing this gap in knowledge and safety, I felt compelled to take action and contribute in a meaningful way—by pursuing firefighting. My motivation stemmed from both my personal values and my background. Raised in a disciplined environment, I was taught the importance of service, resilience, and leadership. Combining these principles with my passion for protecting others, I took the initiative to join my local fire department’s junior program. Through hands-on training and education, I learned not only how to combat fires but also how to educate others on fire prevention and emergency response. So far, I have made significant strides in addressing this issue. I have participated in community outreach programs, visiting schools and local organizations to teach fire safety measures. I have also helped conduct drills, ensuring that families and individuals know how to react in the face of danger. Additionally, I have worked alongside experienced firefighters, gaining invaluable knowledge and firsthand experience in handling emergency situations. Looking ahead, I aim to expand my efforts by increasing community engagement in fire safety. One way to do this is by organizing larger-scale fire safety workshops, incorporating interactive demonstrations and hands-on training. I also hope to develop a mentorship program within my fire department to encourage more young individuals to get involved in emergency response training. Firefighting is more than a career choice for me—it is a commitment to making my community a safer place. Through continued education, outreach, and service, I am determined to ensure that more people are equipped with the knowledge and skills to protect themselves and their loved ones from fire-related hazards. By taking this initiative, I hope to create a lasting impact and inspire others to prioritize safety and preparedness. I deserve this scholarship because I will always have a commitment to my future. Being raised in a military household, perfection is not just an expectation, but a necessity. My father led our house through the hard work and commitment to ethical decision-making. Instilled in me are traits of a disciplined student and leader. This scholarship will only help me in my journey to what I was made to be.

Throughout my life, I have dedicated myself to a wide range of activities that reflect my passion for service, leadership, and personal growth. From firefighting and emergency medical services to playing trumpet and jazz drums in my school band, I have sought to challenge myself and contribute to my community in meaningful ways. Pursuing an Army ROTC scholarship will provide me with the financial support and opportunities necessary to continue my education and fulfill my aspirations of becoming a nurse in the military. My commitment to service is deeply rooted in my upbringing. As a firefighter and EMT, I have responded to emergencies where every second counts. These experiences have reinforced my ability to stay calm under pressure, make critical decisions, and work as part of a team. Firefighting has also strengthened my physical endurance and mental resilience—qualities that will serve me well as an Army officer and nurse. Helping people in their most vulnerable moments has affirmed my desire to continue serving on an even greater scale in the military. Beyond emergency response, I am actively involved in my high school’s band program. Playing the trumpet and jazz drums has taught me discipline, dedication, and teamwork. Music has provided me with an outlet to express myself creatively while also fostering strong relationships with my peers. Balancing band commitments with my other responsibilities has helped me develop time management skills, which will be invaluable in both my academic and military pursuits. Athletics have also played a crucial role in shaping my character. As a soccer goalie and cheerleader, I have learned the importance of perseverance, leadership, and teamwork. In both sports, I have had to stay mentally strong and push through challenges, whether it be blocking a penalty kick or leading my team through a difficult routine. These experiences have reinforced my determination and ability to adapt—traits that will be essential as I embark on my journey through ROTC and beyond. Another defining aspect of my life is my family’s military legacy. My father was a Tomb Guard Soldier, and my ancestors have served in every major American war since the Civil War. Growing up with such strong role models instilled in me a deep sense of duty and pride in serving my country. Joining the Army ROTC program is not only a step toward my dream career but also an opportunity to continue my family’s tradition of military service. The financial burden of college is a challenge that many students face, and I am no exception. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to focus on my studies and training without the added stress of financial constraints. It would provide me with the resources to excel academically, develop my leadership skills, and prepare for a future as an Army nurse. With the support of this scholarship, I can dedicate myself fully to my education and service, ensuring that I am the best possible leader and caregiver for those who rely on me. I am grateful for the experiences and lessons that my activities have provided me, and I am eager to apply them in my future endeavors. The Army ROTC scholarship represents more than just financial assistance—it is an investment in my potential to make a difference. With this support, I will continue to serve, lead, and inspire others, upholding the values of dedication, resilience, and selfless service that have guided me throughout my life.

Growing up, I witnessed firsthand how emergencies could strike at any moment, often leaving people vulnerable and unprepared. One issue in my community that deeply resonated with me was the lack of awareness and preparedness for fire-related emergencies. Many people didn’t know basic fire safety procedures or how to respond in crisis situations. Seeing this gap in knowledge and safety, I felt compelled to take action and contribute in a meaningful way—by pursuing firefighting. My motivation stemmed from both my personal values and my background. Raised in a disciplined environment, I was taught the importance of service, resilience, and leadership. Combining these principles with my passion for protecting others, I took the initiative to join my local fire department’s junior program. Through hands-on training and education, I learned not only how to combat fires but also how to educate others on fire prevention and emergency response. So far, I have made significant strides in addressing this issue. I have participated in community outreach programs, visiting schools and local organizations to teach fire safety measures. I have also helped conduct drills, ensuring that families and individuals know how to react in the face of danger. Additionally, I have worked alongside experienced firefighters, gaining invaluable knowledge and firsthand experience in handling emergency situations. Looking ahead, I aim to expand my efforts by increasing community engagement in fire safety. One way to do this is by organizing larger-scale fire safety workshops, incorporating interactive demonstrations and hands-on training. I also hope to develop a mentorship program within my fire department to encourage more young individuals to get involved in emergency response training. Firefighting is more than a career choice for me—it is a commitment to making my community a safer place. Through continued education, outreach, and service, I am determined to ensure that more people are equipped with the knowledge and skills to protect themselves and their loved ones from fire-related hazards. By taking this initiative, I hope to create a lasting impact and inspire others to prioritize safety and preparedness.

The first time I hiked in the mountains of Colorado was a life-changing experience. Having grown up in a structured environment shaped by discipline and resilience, I had always found solace in hard work and dedication. However, stepping into the vast wilderness of the Rockies, surrounded by towering peaks and endless sky, introduced me to a different kind of strength—one rooted in nature, perseverance, and self-discovery. As I took my first steps on the rugged trail, I felt an unfamiliar mix of excitement and apprehension. The air was crisp, carrying the scent of pine and damp earth, and the rhythmic crunch of my boots against the dirt became a steady companion. With each mile, the ascent grew steeper, testing my endurance and determination. My legs burned, my breath quickened, and doubt crept in. But as I looked ahead and saw the towering summit in the distance, I reminded myself of the values instilled in me—persistence, resilience, and the belief that no challenge was insurmountable. Halfway up the trail, I paused to take in the breathtaking scenery. The towering evergreens stood as silent sentinels, and the mountains stretched endlessly before me, their peaks brushing the sky. I realized that, much like my journey through life, this hike was not just about reaching the summit; it was about embracing the journey itself. Just as my family had overcome immense struggles- my parents’ battle with addiction, my ancestors’ sacrifices in military service- I, too, was learning to push through adversity, step by step. Reaching the summit was one of the most exhilarating moments of my life. As I stood at the peak, overlooking valleys bathed in golden sunlight, I felt an overwhelming sense of accomplishment. The challenges along the way—the fatigue, the doubts, the physical strain—had all been worth it. In that moment, I understood the true power of perseverance. It was a lesson that extended far beyond the mountains, reinforcing my commitment to my goals, whether in the Army ROTC program, my nursing career, or my personal growth. That first hike in Colorado reshaped my perspective on life. It taught me that strength is not just about physical endurance, but also about mental resilience and embracing the unknown. It deepened my appreciation for nature, reminding me that even in the vastness of the wilderness, one can find clarity and purpose. More importantly, it reaffirmed my belief that challenges are not obstacles to fear but opportunities to grow. As I continue my journey toward becoming a nurse and serving in the military, I carry the lessons of that hike with me. The mountains taught me patience, determination, and the beauty of the climb itself. Just as I conquered that trail, I know I can face whatever challenges lie ahead, one step at a time.

Throughout my journey in emergency response and healthcare, I have encountered moments that tested my character and commitment to ethical service. One particular experience with a deaf woman in the emergency room solidified my belief in going beyond expectations and embodying the pillar of ethics. During one of my EMT shifts, we responded to a call for a woman in distress. Upon arrival at the emergency room, I quickly realized that she was deaf and struggling to communicate her medical needs to the hospital staff. The confusion on her face and the frustration of those trying to assist her made it clear that this was not just a medical emergency—it was a situation that required patience, compassion, and ethical responsibility. Recognizing the gap in communication, I took it upon myself to bridge the divide. Though I am not fluent in American Sign Language (ASL), I knew some basic signs and gestures. I knelt beside her, making eye contact to reassure her that she was not alone. Using the limited ASL I knew, combined with written notes and a translation app, I was able to understand her concerns and relay critical information to the medical staff. In that moment, it was not just about providing medical aid—it was about treating her with the dignity and respect every patient deserves. Going beyond expectations is not just about extra effort; it is about recognizing and addressing the needs of others, even when it is not explicitly required. Many in my position might have relied solely on hospital interpreters or passed the responsibility along to someone else, but I knew that immediate action was necessary. Ethics in healthcare is not just following protocol—it is advocating for those who might otherwise be overlooked. This experience called my attention to the harsh reality that is the underepresentation of the voice of elderly patients in healthcare. It isn't often that these patients are truly heard, but I heard this woman, not through sound but through true medical care. This experience reinforced my commitment to nursing and my passion for serving others with integrity. It reminded me that ethical service is not just about doing what is expected but about ensuring that every individual, regardless of circumstance, receives compassionate and equitable care. As I continue my journey toward becoming a nurse, I carry this lesson with me, knowing that true service is measured not just by skill, but by the willingness to go beyond expectations for the good of others.

In the darkest moments of crisis, the impact of first responders is invaluable. When the worst of life hits, the hands of first responders carry us through when we cannot see a way out. During my family’s biggest crisis- the loss of my 19-year-old cousin who had taken his own life in 2020- I witnessed genuine compassion and profound impact in action in the first moments of catastrophe. When life was forever changed for our family, the first responders like our neighbor, the first volunteer firefighter to the scene, became beacons of hope and human connection. Witnessing this, I knew I had to make a difference in this world and the inexplicable value of working to save one life at a time. I wanted to be like the heroes that gave us those last moments with Jimmy. In 2023, a Fire and Rescue vocational program trained me to be a first responder, a firefighter, and, more than that, a lifeline for those in crisis. I learned professional skills and the importance of precise action and vigilance in the make-or-break decisions of an emergency call. I strove for excellence. The uphill battle of being a woman in a male-dominated field fueled me to work harder and faster than my peers. Aware of the vitality of every opportunity, I practiced skills for hours on end, working toward becoming trustworthy and unshakeable in the face of adversity, trial, and trauma.The medical chapters of my study isolated my interest. I read through them many times, trying to soak up every piece of information. Following Fire and Rescue graduation, moving into Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) training, I was chosen as the first ever high schooler in an independent course that took place at night rather than the alternative vocational program during school hours. Classes ran into my school year, teaching me to balance academics and the weight of learning an entire job while still being a present friend, daughter, and varsity athlete. The decision not to do vocational training brought me back to doing 8 hours at my home school, allowing me to pursue further my passion in AP Biology and Anatomy & Physiology classes. Every assignment and lesson adds to the burning fire I have for medical knowledge, having seen exactly how it applies in action and the importance of mastery of such knowledge. Shadowing ER nurses for 12-hour shifts cemented for me, without a doubt, precisely the kind of work I’m meant to do. The scientific and biological aspect that transcends the demand of EMT was given to me in that environment. A deaf patient who was brought in from a nursing home lacking staff that spoke ASL was an encounter I will never forget. Having the skill of basic ASL, I stepped in to help her understand what was happening. The simple act of clear communication provided immense relief. The patient’s gratitude proved just how important it is to care for each patient as an individual. Working in the ER inspired me to strive beyond an EMT license to take the potential to change lives a step further into the emergency room. Suffragist and American civil rights activist Mary Church Terrell spent her life fighting to see success in others as much as her own. Her “lift as we climb” mindset as a medical professional can transform how you see your care and future. I intend to make the most of every opportunity, to be the one that changes someone’s crisis into a time they can point to as seeing the good in humanity.

In the darkest moments of crisis, the impact of first responders is invaluable. When the worst of life hits, the hands of first responders carry us through when we cannot see a way out. During my family’s biggest crisis- the loss of my 19-year-old cousin who had taken his own life in 2020- I witnessed genuine compassion and profound impact in action in the first moments of catastrophe. When life was forever changed for our family, the first responders like our neighbor, the first volunteer firefighter to the scene, became beacons of hope and human connection. Witnessing this, I knew I had to make a difference in this world and the inexplicable value of working to save one life at a time. I wanted to be like the heroes that gave us those last moments with Jimmy. In 2023, a Fire and Rescue vocational program trained me to be a first responder, a firefighter, and, more than that, a lifeline for those in crisis. I learned professional skills and the importance of precise action and vigilance in the make-or-break decisions of an emergency call. I strove for excellence. The uphill battle of being a woman in a male-dominated field fueled me to work harder and faster than my peers. Aware of the vitality of every opportunity, I practiced skills for hours on end, working toward becoming trustworthy and unshakeable in the face of adversity, trial, and trauma.The medical chapters of my study isolated my interest. I read through them many times, trying to soak up every piece of information. Following Fire and Rescue graduation, moving into Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) training, I was chosen as the first ever high schooler in an independent course that took place at night rather than the alternative vocational program during school hours. Classes ran into my school year, teaching me to balance academics and the weight of learning an entire job while still being a present friend, daughter, and varsity athlete. The decision not to do vocational training brought me back to doing 8 hours at my home school, allowing me to pursue further my passion in AP Biology and Anatomy & Physiology classes. Every assignment and lesson adds to the burning fire I have for medical knowledge, having seen exactly how it applies in action and the importance of mastery of such knowledge. Shadowing ER nurses for 12-hour shifts cemented for me, without a doubt, precisely the kind of work I’m meant to do. The scientific and biological aspect that transcends the demand of EMT was given to me in that environment. A deaf patient who was brought in from a nursing home lacking staff that spoke ASL was an encounter I will never forget. Having the skill of basic ASL, I stepped in to help her understand what was happening. The simple act of clear communication provided immense relief. The patient’s gratitude proved just how important it is to care for each patient as an individual. Working in the ER inspired me to strive beyond an EMT license to take the potential to change lives a step further into the emergency room. Suffragist and American civil rights activist Mary Church Terrell spent her life fighting to see success in others as much as her own. Her “lift as we climb” mindset as a medical professional can transform how you see your care and future. I intend to make the most of every opportunity, to be the one that changes someone’s crisis into a time they can point to as seeing the good in humanity.

In the darkest moments of crisis, the impact of first responders is invaluable. When the worst of life hits, the hands of first responders carry us through when we cannot see a way out. During my family’s biggest crisis- the loss of my 19-year-old cousin who had taken his own life in 2020- I witnessed genuine compassion and profound impact in action in the first moments of catastrophe. When life was forever changed for our family, the first responders like our neighbor, the first volunteer firefighter to the scene, became beacons of hope and human connection. Witnessing this, I knew I had to make a difference in this world and the inexplicable value of working to save one life at a time. I wanted to be like the heroes that gave us those last moments with Jimmy. In 2023, a Fire and Rescue vocational program trained me to be a first responder, a firefighter, and, more than that, a lifeline for those in crisis. I learned professional skills and the importance of precise action and vigilance in the make-or-break decisions of an emergency call. I strove for excellence. The uphill battle of being a woman in a male-dominated field fueled me to work harder and faster than my peers. Aware of the vitality of every opportunity, I practiced skills for hours on end, working toward becoming trustworthy and unshakeable in the face of adversity, trial, and trauma. The medical chapters of my study isolated my interest. I read through them many times, trying to soak up every piece of information. Following Fire and Rescue graduation, moving into Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) training, I was chosen as the first ever high schooler in an independent course that took place at night rather than the alternative vocational program during school hours. Classes ran into my school year, teaching me to balance academics and the weight of learning an entire job while still being a present friend, daughter, and varsity athlete. The decision not to do vocational training brought me back to doing 8 hours at my home school, allowing me to pursue further my passion in AP Biology and Anatomy & Physiology classes. Every assignment and lesson adds to the burning fire I have for medical knowledge, having seen exactly how it applies in action and the importance of mastery of such knowledge. Shadowing ER nurses for 12-hour shifts cemented for me, without a doubt, precisely the kind of work I’m meant to do. The scientific and biological aspect that transcends the demand of EMT was given to me in that environment. A deaf patient who was brought in from a nursing home lacking staff that spoke ASL was an encounter I will never forget. Having the skill of basic ASL, I stepped in to help her understand what was happening. The simple act of clear communication provided immense relief. The patient’s gratitude proved just how important it is to care for each patient as an individual. Working in the ER inspired me to strive beyond an EMT license to take the potential to change lives a step further into the emergency room. Suffragist and American civil rights activist Mary Church Terrell spent her life fighting to see success in others as much as her own. Her “lift as we climb” mindset as a medical professional can transform how you see your care and future. I intend to make the most of every opportunity, to be the one that changes someone’s crisis into a time they can point to as seeing the good in humanity.

In the darkest moments of crisis, the impact of first responders is invaluable. When the worst of life hits, the hands of first responders carry us through when we cannot see a way out. During my family’s biggest crisis- the loss of my 19-year-old cousin who had taken his own life in 2020- I witnessed genuine compassion and profound impact in action in the first moments of catastrophe. When life was forever changed for our family, the first responders like our neighbor, the first volunteer firefighter to the scene, became beacons of hope and human connection. Witnessing this, I knew I had to make a difference in this world and the inexplicable value of working to save one life at a time. I wanted to be like the heroes that gave us those last moments with Jimmy. In 2023, a Fire and Rescue vocational program trained me to be a first responder, a firefighter, and, more than that, a lifeline for those in crisis. I learned professional skills and the importance of precise action and vigilance in the make-or-break decisions of an emergency call. I strove for excellence. The uphill battle of being a woman in a male-dominated field fueled me to work harder and faster than my peers. Aware of the vitality of every opportunity, I practiced skills for hours on end, working toward becoming trustworthy and unshakeable in the face of adversity, trial, and trauma. The medical chapters of my study isolated my interest. I read through them many times, trying to soak up every piece of information. Following Fire and Rescue graduation, moving into Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) training, I was chosen as the first ever high schooler in an independent course that took place at night rather than the alternative vocational program during school hours. Classes ran into my school year, teaching me to balance academics and the weight of learning an entire job while still being a present friend, daughter, and varsity athlete. The decision not to do vocational training brought me back to doing 8 hours at my home school, allowing me to pursue further my passion in AP Biology and Anatomy & Physiology classes. Every assignment and lesson adds to the burning fire I have for medical knowledge, having seen exactly how it applies in action and the importance of mastery of such knowledge. Shadowing ER nurses for 12-hour shifts cemented for me, without a doubt, precisely the kind of work I’m meant to do. The scientific and biological aspect that transcends the demand of EMT was given to me in that environment. A deaf patient who was brought in from a nursing home lacking staff that spoke ASL was an encounter I will never forget. Having the skill of basic ASL, I stepped in to help her understand what was happening. The simple act of clear communication provided immense relief. The patient’s gratitude proved just how important it is to care for each patient as an individual. Working in the ER inspired me to strive beyond an EMT license to take the potential to change lives a step further into the emergency room. Suffragist and American civil rights activist Mary Church Terrell spent her life fighting to see success in others as much as her own. Her “lift as we climb” mindset as a medical professional can transform how you see your care and future. I intend to make the most of every opportunity, to be the one that changes someone’s crisis into a time they can point to as seeing the good in humanity.

In the darkest moments of crisis, the impact of first responders is invaluable. When the worst of life hits, the hands of first responders carry us through when we cannot see a way out. During my family’s biggest crisis- the loss of my 19-year-old cousin who had taken his own life in 2020- I witnessed genuine compassion and profound impact in action in the first moments of catastrophe. When life was forever changed for our family, the first responders like our neighbor, the first volunteer firefighter to the scene, became beacons of hope and human connection. Witnessing this, I knew I had to make a difference in this world and the inexplicable value of working to save one life at a time. I wanted to be like the heroes that gave us those last moments with Jimmy. In 2023, a Fire and Rescue vocational program trained me to be a first responder, a firefighter, and, more than that, a lifeline for those in crisis. I learned professional skills and the importance of precise action and vigilance in the make-or-break decisions of an emergency call. I strove for excellence. The uphill battle of being a woman in a male-dominated field fueled me to work harder and faster than my peers. Aware of the vitality of every opportunity, I practiced skills for hours on end, working toward becoming trustworthy and unshakeable in the face of adversity, trial, and trauma. The medical chapters of my study isolated my interest. I read through them many times, trying to soak up every piece of information. Following Fire and Rescue graduation, moving into Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) training, I was chosen as the first ever high schooler in an independent course that took place at night rather than the alternative vocational program during school hours. Classes ran into my school year, teaching me to balance academics and the weight of learning an entire job while still being a present friend, daughter, and varsity athlete. The decision not to do vocational training brought me back to doing 8 hours at my home school, allowing me to pursue further my passion in AP Biology and Anatomy & Physiology classes. Every assignment and lesson adds to the burning fire I have for medical knowledge, having seen exactly how it applies in action and the importance of mastery of such knowledge. Shadowing ER nurses for 12-hour shifts cemented for me, without a doubt, precisely the kind of work I’m meant to do. The scientific and biological aspect that transcends the demand of EMT was given to me in that environment. A deaf patient who was brought in from a nursing home lacking staff that spoke ASL was an encounter I will never forget. Having the skill of basic ASL, I stepped in to help her understand what was happening. The simple act of clear communication provided immense relief. The patient’s gratitude proved just how important it is to care for each patient as an individual. Working in the ER inspired me to strive beyond an EMT license to take the potential to change lives a step further into the emergency room. Suffragist and American civil rights activist Mary Church Terrell spent her life fighting to see success in others as much as her own. Her “lift as we climb” mindset as a medical professional can transform how you see your care and future. I intend to make the most of every opportunity, to be the one that changes someone’s crisis into a time they can point to as seeing the good in humanity.