A stack of unpaid bills on the counter, my younger siblings complaining that they were still hungry, and my mother’s weary face etched with worry—these are the images that greeted me each day. Growing up in an environment where financial instability was a constant, my mental health often felt like a ship tossed on turbulent seas. Anxiety and stress became my constant companions; however, I had two options. The first was to submit to the fate I’ve been given, and the second was to defy it. It was time I took charge of my own life to improve our circumstances. Living in such conditions planted the seed of resilience deep within me. Each day was a battle against despair, and every small victory, whether it was making my siblings smile or finding a way to stretch a dollar further, fueled my determination to create a better life. As I navigated through this challenging environment, my mental health became both a hurdle and a catalyst for change. I knew I had to break free from the cycle of poverty, and this urgency became a powerful motivator to pursue entrepreneurship. Mental health struggles taught me to value empathy and understanding. Experiencing firsthand the stigma and isolation that accompany anxiety and depression, I realized the importance of creating spaces where people feel supported and heard. This understanding became a cornerstone of my entrepreneurial aspirations. I wanted to build businesses that not only thrived financially but also contributed positively to society and fostered communities of inclusivity and support. My journey toward entrepreneurship began with small, hesitant steps. In high school, I started a tutoring service for younger students. The aim was simple: to earn enough money to contribute to my family’s expenses. But as I tutored, I saw how education could empower individuals and change their circumstances. This realization ignited a passion within me to create ventures that have a meaningful impact. However, the road was not always smooth. Balancing school, work, and family responsibilities took a toll on my mental health. There were times when the weight of it all seemed unbearable. I experienced bouts of self-doubt and exhaustion that made me question my abilities and aspirations. But in those moments, I found strength in vulnerability. I learned to seek help, to lean on others, and to practice self-compassion. These experiences shaped my belief that mental health is a critical aspect of overall well-being and should be prioritized in every aspect of life, including business. As I ventured further into the world of entrepreneurship, I discovered the power of innovation and creativity. I began to see entrepreneurship not just as a means of financial stability but as a platform for social change. I was inspired by entrepreneurs who used their businesses to address social issues and improve mental health outcomes. This inspiration drove me to envision enterprises that provide products and services and empower communities and uplift those in need. Success is not solely measured by profit margins but by the positive impact one can make. I aspire to build businesses that align with these values, creating opportunities for others and contributing to a more equitable and compassionate world. In the face of adversity, I have found my purpose. Entrepreneurship offers a path to create change, to transform struggles into strengths, and to build a future where financial stability and mental well-being go hand in hand. Through my journey, I hope to inspire others to pursue their dreams despite their challenges, knowing that their experiences can become powerful tools for change.

As the sun's first rays peeked through my curtains, I embarked on a typical day in my senior year of high school, a day where leadership was woven into the tapestry of my daily actions. As the eldest of three brothers, my journey as a leader began at home, setting an example for my younger siblings. Morning chores saw me waking everyone up on time, making breakfast for the family, guiding my brothers through the morning routine, and ensuring they left for school with smiles on their faces. Leadership, I've come to realize, is not about being in charge, but about fostering a positive environment that empowers others to thrive. Once my family was off to their day, I headed to school. In the bustling halls, I didn't hold a formal leadership role, but I embraced opportunities to lead by example. Whether it was picking up litter in the courtyard or offering a helping hand to a struggling classmate, I understood that leadership wasn't limited to titles but was about actions that improved the school community. After school, I attended a meeting as an executive leader of Medcase, a club that analyzes case studies. Leadership in this context is about fostering an environment of collaboration and intellectual curiosity. I guided discussions, not by providing all the answers, but by inspiring my colleagues to ask questions and think critically. Our club thrived because of an inclusive atmosphere that encouraged everyone to contribute their insights and perspectives. In the evening, I returned home, and a school project awaited. We had to analyze Lindsay Lohan from 8 different psychological perspectives. Our team was struggling with organization, and I took the initiative to create a project plan and timeline. This action transformed our approach and improved our final result. Leadership, for me, is about recognizing opportunities for improvement and taking action. In my everyday life, leadership is not about titles or grand gestures. It's about setting an example through everyday actions. It's in the smile I offer to a classmate, the extra task I take on in a group project, the guidance I provide my siblings, and the initiative I take in my endeavors. It's about fostering an environment where others feel empowered to thrive and contribute. In my journey as a high school senior, I carry these leadership qualities with me. I lead with empathy, recognizing that effective leadership is not defined by authority, but by the quiet, consistent actions that uplift and empower others. As I stand at the threshold of graduation and the next chapter of my life, I am ready to continue walking the path of leadership with unwavering dedication and heartfelt enthusiasm, inspired by the potential to make a positive impact on the lives of those I serve and to carry these leadership qualities into my future endeavors.

In the pursuit of my dream to become a doctor, I stand at the crossroads of ambition and reality, driven by a fervent desire to bring positive change to the world. The scholarship I aspire to acquire, valued at $5000, is more than just financial aid; it is the beacon of light guiding me toward the path of my dreams. This scholarship will not only alleviate financial burdens but also empower me to pursue my undergraduate BS/MD program with dedication and determination. The journey toward a career in medicine is not for the faint of heart. It requires an unwavering commitment to the pursuit of knowledge, as well as the cultivation of empathy and clinical skills. The financial support provided by this scholarship will play a pivotal role in transforming my dreams into reality. One of the immediate ways in which this scholarship will be instrumental is by allowing me to focus on my studies with undivided attention. Medical studies are notoriously demanding, requiring an all-encompassing dedication to mastering a vast array of subjects. The scholarship will alleviate financial pressures, affording me the luxury of time for in-depth study and academic excellence. Beyond textbooks and lectures, practical experiences are vital for aspiring doctors. This scholarship would provide the means to participate in internships, research programs, and medical missions. These experiences are instrumental in expanding my horizons beyond the classroom, offering real-world insights and skills that will be invaluable in my future medical practice. Furthermore, the field of medicine is not just about acquiring knowledge; it is about nurturing the qualities that define a great physician. This scholarship will enable me to attend workshops and seminars that focus on the human aspect of medicine – the ability to empathize, communicate, and connect with patients. These skills are the essence of providing patient-centered care, and I am determined to excel in this aspect of medicine. The scholarship's financial relief will also be a crucial factor in shaping my path. Medical education is an expensive endeavor, and it often leads to significant student debt. By reducing this financial burden, the scholarship will allow me to make career choices based on my passion rather than financial constraints. I can pursue specialties that align with my true calling and my desire to serve the community. Moreover, as a scholarship recipient, I am aware of the responsibility that comes with this privilege. I am committed to using my education and skills to give back to the community, particularly to those who lack access to quality healthcare. This scholarship will not only enrich my life but also enable me to make a meaningful difference in the lives of underserved communities. In conclusion, this scholarship is more than just financial assistance; it is a gateway to my dreams. It will provide me with the opportunity to excel academically, to gain practical experience, to develop the qualities that define a great physician, and to make career choices based on my true passion. It represents not only a personal opportunity but a commitment to improving healthcare for the community and for the underserved. I am deeply grateful for the potential this scholarship holds to illuminate my path to a career in medicine and to make a positive impact on countless lives. Thank you for considering my application and for believing in my dream of becoming a doctor who can heal, inspire, and serve.

Throughout my journey, I have encountered the depths of despair, grappling with the shadows of depression and a deeply personal addiction. Although I am not yet comfortable discussing the specifics of my addiction, these experiences have become the impetus driving me to pursue a degree in the mental health field—a path I believe will empower me to make a profound difference in the lives of others. My struggles have bestowed upon me a deep well of empathy and an unwavering commitment to promoting healing and well-being. Through my studies, I aim to acquire a comprehensive understanding of mental health, including the underlying psychological, social, and biological factors that contribute to the challenges faced by individuals. Empathy will serve as the cornerstone of my approach. Having traversed the treacherous terrain of despair, I understand the pain, isolation, and desperate longing for relief that plagues those battling mental health issues. I firmly believe that empathy is the catalyst for fostering genuine connections and creating a safe space for individuals to share their stories without judgment. With this empathy as my guide, I am dedicated to developing a personalized and holistic approach to treatment. Recognizing that each person's journey is unique, I will actively engage with individuals, employing active listening and open-mindedness to understand their experiences fully. This will enable me to develop tailored treatment plans that encompass not only evidence-based interventions but also a compassionate understanding of the individual's needs and strengths. I am also committed to promoting mental health awareness and destigmatization within communities. I understand the profound impact that societal attitudes can have on individuals' willingness to seek help and on their overall well-being. Through community engagement, I will advocate for mental health initiatives, striving to create an environment where individuals feel empowered to openly discuss their struggles without fear of judgment or shame. Additionally, I recognize the importance of collaboration in the mental health field. To make a significant impact, I intend to forge partnerships with local organizations, therapists, and support groups. By working together, we can pool our resources and expertise to create comprehensive networks of care, ensuring that individuals receive the holistic support they need on their path to recovery. To enhance my ability to effect change, I am committed to ongoing professional development and staying up-to-date on the latest advancements in the field of mental health. By actively engaging in research, attending conferences, and pursuing advanced certifications, I will continually expand my knowledge base, integrating evidence-based practices into my work to ensure the highest standard of care.

In the realm of enchantment and captivating storytelling, one Disney masterpiece reigns supreme in my heart: Beauty and the Beast. From its mesmerizing animation to its heartfelt narrative, this timeless tale has held a special place since I first encountered it as a child. This classic film not only served as a comforting companion throughout my childhood but has also played a significant role in shaping the person I am today. At its core, Beauty and the Beast tells a story of physical and emotional transformation. The captivating romance between Belle, a kind-hearted bookworm, and the cursed prince turned Beast is a powerful testament to the enduring power of empathy and love. This tale celebrates the beauty that lies within every individual and reminds us that true acceptance comes from looking beyond mere appearances. During my elementary school years, I faced relentless bullying, which often left me feeling isolated and hurt. In those difficult times, whenever I sought solace at my grandparents' house, this heartwarming classic became my refuge. I vividly remember running to the living room, eagerly opening the dark cherry drawer filled with DVDs, and feeling an overwhelming sense of joy as I retrieved the worn DVD case. It became my comforting companion, a source of solace during those cherished moments spent cuddled up on the couch with my grandmother, wrapped in the warmth of her handwoven quilt. Together, we would lose ourselves in the enchanting narrative, marveling at the vibrant characters and the timeless tale. It became our tradition, a thread that bound us together and made our visits all the more memorable. Beyond its comforting presence, Beauty and the Beast has profoundly inspired me in countless ways. The character of Belle, with her love for books and unwavering spirit, became a role model for me. Her determination to follow her dreams and refusal to conform to societal expectations taught me the invaluable lesson of staying true to myself, even in the face of adversity. The film's underlying theme of personal growth and transformation has motivated me to embrace change and strive for self-improvement. Even as a child, I may not have fully grasped the depths of these lessons, but I understood enough to draw inspiration from the film and develop the resilience to rise above my bullies, focusing on forging my path and pursuing my dreams. As I grew older, I came to appreciate yet another aspect of the movie: its portrayal of romance. To this day, romance remains my favorite genre, encompassing everything from Disney love stories to telenovelas. Central to Beauty and the Beast is the redemptive power of unconditional love. As Belle and the Beast's relationship blossoms, we witness the transformative journey of the Beast from a lonely and resentful creature to a gentle and compassionate soul. This profound evolution exemplifies the extraordinary power of love, highlighting its ability to heal wounds, dismantle barriers, and reveal the innate goodness within each individual. This portrayal of love as a catalyst for redemption has deeply influenced my understanding of relationships and the potential for personal growth within them. Beauty and the Beast is an enduring masterpiece that has left an unforgettable mark on my life. From its enchanting visuals to its profound themes of love, acceptance, and personal growth, this film has provided comfort and inspiration since my childhood, instilling in me a deep appreciation for empathy and self-discovery. The greatest lesson I've learned is to never judge others OR SITUATIONS based on appearances; approaching everyone and everything with empathy and understanding can create magic in our lives and bring out the best in others.

In the realm of enchantment and captivating storytelling, one Disney masterpiece reigns supreme in my heart: Beauty and the Beast. From its mesmerizing animation to its heartfelt narrative, this timeless tale has held a special place since I first encountered it as a child. I have a deep appreciation for this classic, and it also served as a comforting companion throughout my childhood, playing a large role in making me the person I am today. At its core, Beauty and the Beast is a tale of physical and emotional transformation. The blossoming romance between Belle, a kind-hearted bookworm, and the cursed prince turned Beast is a testament to the power of empathy and love. This story celebrates the beauty within and reminds us that true acceptance comes from looking beyond external appearances. I was bullied a lot during my elementary years, so as a child, whenever I visited my grandparents, I found solace in the familiar embrace of the film. I'd run to the living room, open the dark cherry drawer filled with DVDs, and feel the excitement coursing through my veins as I pulled out Beauty and the Beast. It was my comfort movie, my source of joy during those cherished moments spent cuddled up on the couch with my grandmother, wrapped in the warmth of her handwoven quilt. Together, we would lose ourselves in the enchanting narrative, marveling at the vibrant characters and the timeless tale. It became our tradition, a thread that bound us together and made our visits all the more memorable. Beyond its comforting presence, Beauty and the Beast has inspired me in numerous ways. The character of Belle, with her love for books and her unwavering spirit, became my role model. Her determination to follow her dreams and her refusal to conform to societal expectations taught me the importance of staying true to myself, even in the face of adversity. The film's theme of personal growth and transformation has motivated me to embrace change and strive for self-improvement. Even as a child who hadn't fully understood those lessons, I understood enough to be inspired to ignore my bullies and focus on forging my path, striving to achieve my goals and fulfill MY desires. That's the type of person Beauty and the Beast made me be. As I grew older, I began to appreciate another aspect of the movie: the romance. To this day, romance is my favorite genre, from Disney love stories to telenovelas, and central to Beauty and the Beast is the redemptive power of unconditional love. As Belle and the Beast's relationship develops, we witness the transformation of the Beast from a lonely and resentful creature to a gentle and compassionate soul. This journey exemplifies the transformative power of love, highlighting its ability to heal wounds, break down barriers, and reveal the innate goodness within each individual. This portrayal of love as a force of redemption has shaped my understanding of relationships and the capacity for personal growth within them. Beauty and the Beast is an enduring masterpiece that has left an unforgettable mark on my life. From its enchanting visuals to its profound themes of love, acceptance, and personal growth, this film has provided comfort and inspiration since my childhood. Its portrayal of the transformative power of love and its celebration of inner beauty has instilled in me a deep appreciation for empathy and self-discovery. Beauty and the Beast is a reminder that beneath the surface, we all possess the potential to grow, change, and find redemption through the power of love.

"It's loud," I thought as I lay on my basement floor, surrounded by the chaos of my thoughts and home. It was a familiar place, staring up at that blank white ceiling with a crack that branches off into a web of cracks down the middle; however, silence never came. I decided to go for a run, ridding myself of the chaos of my home. The wind gushed into my face blowing back my hair, the cold air bit into my lungs, my shoes pounded across the gravel, but even then, the voices inside my head seem to be in an endless battle, each one clamoring for attention, their words colliding and intertwining into an indistinguishable dissonance. It's overwhelming, suffocating, like being trapped in a room with a thousand echoing voices, all shouting at once. But then I tap my AirPods, and Halsey begins to sing about her arguments with her lover, the voices stop. I tap again and Lil Baby & Gunna begin to rap about their luxurious lifestyles. As I pump my legs faster and faster, synching my feet to the beat of the music I realize-- the clamor is gone. The outside world fades away, as the melodies, the rhythms; they become a symphony that silences the chaos. It's as if the music knows the secret language of my soul, and it gently whispers to all the voices, soothing them into a peaceful stillness. With each note, a wave of tranquility washes over me. The worries and anxieties that once consumed my mind are drowned out by the harmonies. The lyrics weave stories that transport me to another realm, a place where I can escape from the troubles of reality and lose myself in the beauty of sound. Music becomes my sanctuary, a refuge from the relentless noise of the world and the relentless noise within. It grants me the freedom to detach from reality and explore the vast landscapes of my imagination. In this realm, the boundaries of time and space dissolve, and I am transported to a place where only music exists. In those moments, the outside world ceases to exist, and I am left alone with my thoughts, but they no longer hold power over me. The music acts as a shield, protecting me from their incessant chatter. It empowers me to reclaim control over my own mind and find peace amidst the chaos. Through music, I discover a way to express the deepest corners of my being without the need for words. It becomes my voice when I cannot find the right words to speak. It understands me in ways that no human ever could, embracing my flaws and scars, and transforming them into something beautiful. Music serves as a universal language of emotions, as it has taught me the power of vulnerability, transcending cultural and linguistic barriers. Music has sparked wonder, expanding my horizons and appreciation for diverse voices. This world is a symphony of stories, melodies, and rhythms, that connect us all. Music has deepened my empathy, understanding, and gratitude for the beauty in every moment, every touch-- every sound. Through music, I'm reminded to seek out the melodies that exist within every aspect of life and embrace the interconnectedness of humanity.

As a Palestinian-Muslim living in the melting pot that is New York City, my identity is a constant source of inspiration, pride, and struggle. It is an identity that has been shaped by centuries of history, struggle, and resilience. It is an identity that has been condemned, oppressed, and misunderstood but has taught me the value of empathy, compassion, and perseverance. It is an identity that will undoubtedly influence my interactions in the healthcare setting and my goals as a future physician. I plan to major in biology for my undergraduate studies and go on to med school to become a physician. Growing up, I learned about the struggles of my people, the Palestinian people, and the constant battle for survival. I visited Gaza twice in my childhood, and there I learned about the brutal realities of the Israeli occupation, the displacement of families, the destruction of homes, and the systematic violation of human rights. The water was polluted, the electricity was only on for a few hours a day, and the constant fear for my life will forever remain within me. As I would drive around with my father, I would see ruins of cities and villages that had been bombed, worrying if ours was next. I was a child, my biggest worry should have been how fast I could put together my new Lego set. Instead, I had to confront the harsh realities of the world far too soon. However, these experiences strengthened my connection to Allah(S.W.T) and instilled in me a deep sense of empathy toward others and a burning desire to make a positive impact on the lives of those around me. I can best live up to these values as a physician, as healthcare is a field where I can use my experiences and knowledge to advocate for marginalized and underserved communities, especially the Muslim community. I have been inspired by the healthcare professionals I have met and worked with, as I volunteer at a community clinic. Helping patients and watching their dedication to providing quality care has shown me the immense impact healthcare professionals can have on their communities. Furthermore, Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W) said: "The best of people are those who are most beneficial to others," and who wouldn't want to be from those people? May Allah(S.W.T) guide my path to success as He has reinforced my desire to pursue a career in healthcare. As a Muslim, I am compelled to seek knowledge and continuously learn, and pursuing a degree in healthcare aligns with this obligation. Higher education is essential in achieving my goals as a healthcare professional, as it will provide me with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide high-quality care and advocate for my patients. The Quran emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge and education; as a Muslim, I aspire to use my degree to serve humanity and make a positive impact in my community. In addition to volunteering at clinics, I also pack and distribute ~600 bags of groceries a month at a community mosque. Although I aspire to do more, I hope my actions have made a positive impact on the people in my community. To me, being a Muslim means dedicating my life to Allah, and striving for compassion, kindness, and social justice in all aspects of my life. As a Muslim, I understand the importance of embracing diversity and seeking knowledge, which are integral parts of my faith. I believe in the power of education to bring about positive change, and I aim to be an advocate for truth and justice through peaceful means.

I plan to pursue a biology major for my undergraduate studies and continue to medical school to become a physician. I grew up learning about the struggles of my people, the Palestinians, and their constant battle for survival. I have visited Gaza twice in my childhood and witnessed the brutal realities of the Israeli occupation, including the displacement of families, the destruction of homes, and the systematic violation of human rights. The water was polluted, and the electricity was limited to a few hours per day, which made me constantly fear for my life. Driving around with my father, I would see ruins of cities and villages that had been bombed, worrying if ours was next. These experiences instilled in me a deep sense of empathy toward others and a burning desire to make a positive impact on the lives of those around me. As a healthcare professional, I can best live up to my values of advocating for marginalized and underserved communities, particularly the Muslim community. Healthcare professionals have a tremendous impact on their communities, as I have witnessed through my experiences interning at a community clinic. Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W) once said, "The best of people are those who are most beneficial to others," and I aspire to be one of those people. Pursuing a degree in healthcare aligns with my obligation as a Muslim to seek knowledge and continuously learn. Higher education will equip me with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide high-quality care for my patients. The Quran emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge and education, which is integral to my faith. As a Muslim, I believe in the power of education to bring about positive change, and I aim to be an advocate for truth and justice through peaceful means. To this end, I have been involved in packing and distributing ~600 bags of groceries a month at a community mosque since 2021. While I aspire to do more, I hope my actions have made a positive impact on the people in my community. Being a Palestinian Muslim is an essential part of my identity, and it reminds me of my heritage and roots. To me, being a Muslim means dedicating my life to Allah and striving for compassion, kindness, and social justice in all aspects of my life. I understand the importance of embracing diversity and seeking knowledge, which are integral parts of my faith. As a Palestinian, it has been hurtful to have people make jokes about my lack of a country, but I am proud of my heritage and identity. The media's justification of Israel's actions and claims of misinformation and misinterpretation of events disgust me. While protests may not create change, I aim to establish myself as an educated individual who can support the Palestinian movement and provide education to others. I hope to be a part of a larger stage for change in the pursuit of reclaiming our land.

The dream version of my future self is a compassionate and accomplished doctor, teacher, and parent who has achieved all their goals yet continues to pursue knowledge and make meaningful differences in the lives of others.

It is important that we as humans recognize the importance of helping one another in any way we can. This applies to all aspects of society, but especially to those who belong to marginalized communities, as we have a better understanding of the struggles and hardships faced by those around us. As a Muslim, but also as a human being, it has always been my belief that even the smallest act of kindness can make a huge difference in someone's life. A prime example of this was when I helped a lady in need at the community center where I volunteer. As a low-income Palestinian Muslim, I know how difficult it can be to make ends meet. This inspired me to volunteer at a community center where we distribute bags of groceries to people in need, and I immediately fell in love with the work we do. We usually distribute around 700 bags of groceries a month, which is a great help to those who rely on this aid. The feeling of contentment that washes over me as I hand a bag to each person, and see the relief on their faces, brings me a joy unmatched by anything else. However, on one particular day, as I was leaving from the center after cleaning up and everything had finished, I encountered a lady who had missed the distribution and was in desperate need of food. She was wearing ragged clothes and looked like she had been through a lot. As a volunteer, I am also given a bag of groceries that I usually send to my grandparents, but without hesitation, I gave her my allotted bag, as I could see that she truly needed it. This small act of kindness had a significant impact on me. It made me realize that there are many people out there who are struggling and in need of help. I decided to start packing extra bags of groceries and waiting outside the gates of the community center after the distribution had ended. To my surprise, there were a lot more people who had missed the distribution than I had originally thought. I soon realized that this was an issue that needed to be addressed. I brought this issue up to the organizers of the distribution, and we decided to extend the distribution time by an hour. This gave us enough time to distribute the remaining bags of groceries to those who had missed the earlier distribution. The impact of this small change was immense, as many families and children who would have gone hungry were now able to have a meal thanks to the extra hour of distribution. This experience taught me that even the smallest acts of kindness can have a ripple effect. Helping one person can lead to helping many more. It also taught me the importance of being aware of the needs of others and doing what I can to help. In a world where the gaps between rich and poor continue to widen, it is crucial that we all do our part to help those in need. By doing so, we can create a more just and equitable society for all.

Collaboration and diversity are crucial in advancing the healthcare and medical field. Healthcare is complex and collaborative, requiring professionals from various disciplines to work together to provide optimal patient care. As a Palestinian-Muslim pursuing a degree in healthcare, I understand the importance of diversity in healthcare settings. Different cultures, ethnicities, and backgrounds bring unique perspectives that can be utilized to provide culturally competent care. Collaboration ensures that patients receive the best possible care by combining the expertise and knowledge of healthcare professionals. As a future physician, I aspire to become a healthcare leader who encourages and fosters collaboration and diversity in the workplace. I plan to pursue diverse perspectives and collaborate with other healthcare professionals with different cultural backgrounds and experiences to provide better care and improve patient results. I am committed to providing care that recognizes the importance of social determinants of health and is grounded in the values of community and family support. By promoting an inclusive environment where everyone's voices are heard, we can work together to improve patient outcomes and address health disparities. I have been inspired by the healthcare professionals I have met and worked with at my community clinic, where I shadow doctors and perform the tasks of a medical assistant. Helping patients and watching their dedication to providing quality care has shown me the immense impact healthcare professionals can have on their communities. However, I've also witnessed the flip side of that. During quarantine, my grandmother was sick in the hospital for over a year, and I spent a lot of time there as a result. The way some were treated so differently from others based on their economic status and education level astonished me. Medical professionals, who should always have an unbiased outlook, would take educated patients seriously while the uneducated ones were often neglected. This angered me, especially with my grandmother remaining in such an environment for a long time, as her English isn't the best. When I tried to bring up the issue to management, I wasn't taken seriously as a high school student. It wasn't until I had brought my uncle, who is a doctor, with me did she finally receive better treatment. For the only way to receive good care to be showing that someone "educated" is affiliated with my grandmother is ridiculous. Through these experiences, I have developed a deep passion for improving the healthcare system and bringing this same level of dedication and commitment to my future work in healthcare. Even outside of healthcare, the power of collaboration and diversity in achieving success is prevalent, as I've seen in my work with the grocery drive at my local mosque/community center. Volunteering there has allowed me to work alongside people from various backgrounds and religions. We all came together with the common goal of helping families in need. Each person brought unique skills and ideas to the table, and together we have distributed over 4,000 bags of groceries to families in need over several months. Our collective efforts continue to have a significant impact on the community, and it continues to be an incredibly rewarding experience. Collaboration and diversity play critical roles in advancing the healthcare and medical field. As a volunteer, shadow, or just a person, I have seen firsthand how working collaboratively with individuals from diverse backgrounds can lead to positive outcomes for patients and the community. I am committed to bringing these values to my future work in healthcare and will strive to create a collaborative and inclusive environment that understands the unique needs and experiences of patients from diverse backgrounds.

As a Palestinian-Muslim living in the melting pot that is New York City, my identity is a constant source of inspiration, pride, and struggle. It is an identity that has been shaped by centuries of history, struggle, and resilience. It is an identity that has been condemned, oppressed, and misunderstood, but has taught me the value of empathy, compassion, and perseverance. It is an identity that will undoubtedly influence my interactions in the healthcare setting and my goals as a future physician. I plan to major in biology for my undergraduate studies and go on to med school to become a physician. Growing up, I learned about the struggles of my people, the Palestinian people, and the constant battle for survival. I visited Gaza twice in my childhood, and there I learned about the brutal realities of the Israeli occupation, the displacement of families, the destruction of homes, and the systematic violation of human rights. The water was polluted, the electricity was only on for a few hours a day, and the constant fear for my life will forever remain within me. As I would drive around with my father, I would see ruins of cities and villages that had been bombed, worrying if ours was next. I was a child, my biggest worry should have been how fast I could put together my new Lego set. Instead, I was forced to confront the harsh realities of the world far too soon. However, these experiences strengthened my connection to Allah(S.W.T) and instilled in me a deep sense of empathy toward others and a burning desire to make a positive impact on the lives of those around me. I can best live up to these values as a physician, as healthcare is a field where I can use my experiences and knowledge to advocate for marginalized and underserved communities, especially the Muslim community. I have been inspired by the healthcare professionals I have met and worked with, as I volunteer at a community clinic. Helping patients and watching their dedication to providing quality care has shown me the immense impact healthcare professionals can have on their communities. Furthermore, Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W) said "The best of people are those who are most beneficial to others," and who wouldn't want to be from those people? May Allah(S.W.T) guide my path to success as He has reinforced my desire to pursue a career in healthcare. As a Muslim, I am compelled to seek knowledge and continuously learn, and pursuing a degree in healthcare aligns with this obligation. Higher education is essential in achieving my goals as a healthcare professional, as it will provide me with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide high-quality care and advocate for my patients. The Quran emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge and education, and as a Muslim, I aspire to use my degree to serve humanity and make a positive impact in my community. In addition to volunteering at clinics, I also pack and distribute ~600 bags of groceries a month at a community mosque. Although I aspire to do more, I hope my actions have made a positive impact on the people in my community. Being a Muslim means finding purpose and meaning in serving Allah through compassion, kindness, and social justice. It means embracing diversity, seeking knowledge, and constantly striving to make a positive impact on the world as a manifestation of my faith. My identity as a Muslim is deeply intertwined with my relationship with Allah, and it fills me with pride and inspires me to be a better servant of Allah.

As a Palestinian-Muslim living in the melting pot that is New York City, my identity is a constant source of inspiration, pride, and struggle. It is an identity that has been shaped by centuries of history, struggle, and resilience. It is an identity that has been condemned, oppressed, and misunderstood, but has taught me the value of empathy, compassion, and perseverance. And it is an identity that will undoubtedly influence my interactions in the healthcare setting and my goals as a future physician. Growing up, I learned about the struggles of my people, the Palestinian people, and the constant battle for survival and self-determination. I visited Gaza twice in my childhood, and there I learned about the brutal realities of the Israeli occupation, the displacement of families, the destruction of homes, and the systematic violation of human rights. The water was polluted, the electricity was only on for a few hours a day, and the constant fear for my life will forever remain with me. As I would drive around with my father, I would see ruins of cities and villages that had been bombed, worrying if ours was next. I was a child, my biggest worry should have been how fast I could put together my new Lego set. Instead, I was forced to confront the harsh realities of the world far too soon. However, these experiences instilled in me a deep sense of empathy toward others and a burning desire to make a positive impact on the lives of those around me. As a Muslim, my faith teaches me the importance of compassion, generosity, and social justice. It is a faith that has been demonized and misrepresented in the media, but one that has taught me the true meaning of empathy and human connection. I remember once getting a phone call and being informed that my uncle's home in Palestine had been bombed. Thankfully he survived, yet I haven't visited since, afraid that I wouldn't return. After everything I'd experienced, returning to America only to be labeled as a "terrorist" by the media astonished me. However, as a future physician, I hope to provide care that is guided by Islam's true values: care that recognizes the dignity and humanity of each patient, regardless of their background or beliefs. But, my identity is not just shaped by my ethnicity and religion. It is also shaped by the rich and diverse culture of my people. Palestinian culture is a culture of resilience, hospitality, and celebration. It is a culture that values family, community, and solidarity. As a future physician, I hope to provide care that is culturally sensitive and responsive, care that recognizes the importance of social determinants of health, and care that is grounded in the values of community and family support. Being a Palestinian-Muslim is an important part of who I am. It has taught me to value compassion, understanding, and social justice. As a future physician, I plan to use my experiences and knowledge to advocate for those who have been marginalized or oppressed. I want to use my platform as a physician to raise awareness about issues affecting underserved communities, including as the impact of systemic oppression on health outcomes. I currently volunteer in community clinics and hope to work with organizations that provide healthcare services to low-income and marginalized populations. As a physician, I hope to provide the best care possible, and by giving back to my community, I hope to honor my identity and my people's struggles, thus making a positive impact on the lives of those around me.