Community service is not just a graduation requirement for me; it's been a deeply rewarding and transformative experience. It offers an immediate sense of fulfillment and connects me with individuals from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds that I might never have encountered otherwise. Being hands-on within my community has allowed me to make a tangible difference in people’s lives, the results of which reaffirmed my commitment to building a compassionate community. My journey began at Project PLASE, a homeless shelter in Baltimore, where I discovered some of the most resilient and talented individuals I have ever met. Through organizing food drives and simply being present, I became a small beacon of hope in their day-to-day lives, as they did for mine. These experiences have grounded me in reality, teaching me invaluable lessons about empathy and resilience, while significantly shifting my perspective on life. It is heartbreaking to see so many lives affected by factors like mental illness, substance abuse, and chronic illnesses—elements beyond their control that have derailed their lives. One story in particular has stuck with me. On my first day at the shelter, I met a trans woman who had once owned a thriving hair business. Her talent transformed her clients, making them feel powerful and confident. She empowered fellow women through hair, each of them leaving her chair a new person. Tragically, her life took a drastic turn when she was diagnosed with cancer. Despite her eventual recovery with chemotherapy, the lack of family support and overwhelming medical bills forced her into homelessness. Her story resonated with me deeply, particularly as my maternal great-grandmother also battled cancer. The thought that such circumstances could touch anyone’s life—including my own—serves as a powerful reminder of our shared humanity. In addition to my work at Project PLASE, I have volunteered at Our Daily Bread Employment Center’s cafeteria, where I served hot meals to those in need. I have also contributed my time to local community gardens, striving to improve access to fresh and healthy foods within my community since grocery stores are so few are far between. My dedication to addressing these disparities led me to participate in the Johns Hopkins CARES Symposium, where I had the honor of moderating and presenting my research on the links between health disparities and the historical racism that Baltimore has experienced since its establishment. This opportunity solidified my resolve to advocate for systemic change. Moreover, my commitment to community service extends to our youth. Collaborating with BIOEYES, I serve as a mentor and teaching assistant for middle school students at Highlandtown and Mt. Royal Middle Schools — Mt. Royal, which is my old middle school. Together, we engage in hands-on science workshops, nurturing curiosity and a love for learning among the next generation. As I look toward my future, I am determined to play an active role in fostering an inclusive, supportive, and compassionate community. With my passion for public health, I aim to become a Nurse Case Manager, addressing health disparities in Baltimore through the healthcare system. Inspired by the legacy of Bishop Ron O. Beazer Sr. and his unwavering commitment to improving lives, I am driven to cultivate connections, share experiences, and collaborate not only within my immediate community but throughout all of Baltimore. This scholarship will aid in my journey to further my education and continue my mission toward creating meaningful change here in Baltimore.