Resilience means bouncing back from tough times. I learned this during my sophomore year of high school. It was a challenging time that tested me, but it also helped me grow and inspire my friends. At the start of the year, I took on a lot of hard classes, including honors and college courses, because I wanted to do well and become a doctor someday. I was excited but soon realized that balancing everything was harder than I thought. The pressure to get good grades and keep up with the National Honor Society became too much. My grades started to slip, and I felt overwhelmed. I remember feeling like I was constantly running out of time, and it seemed like no matter how hard I worked, I couldn't keep up. This stress affected my confidence and mood. I started to doubt myself and my abilities. I stopped hanging out with friends and doing things I liked because I was afraid of failing. I felt alone, even though I was surrounded by people. It was during this low point that I realized I needed to make a change. I couldn’t keep going like this, and I needed to find a way to manage everything more effectively. I decided to reach out to my teachers for help. My biology teacher was especially helpful. She encouraged me to see setbacks as a chance to learn and grow. With her advice, I made a better study plan and learned to manage my time. I started setting small, achievable goals for each day, which made my workload seem less overwhelming. I also tried mindfulness techniques, like deep breathing and short meditation sessions, to handle stress. These changes gradually helped me feel better and improve my grades. As I got through this tough time, my friends noticed the changes in me. Many of them were also struggling with similar issues, and my story inspired them. Seeing my improvement, they began to ask for advice on how to manage their own challenges. We decided to start a study group, where we shared tips on managing time and stress. It became a place where we supported each other, and it helped us all do better in school. One friend told me that my story gave them hope and made them realize they weren’t alone. We all learned that by working together, we could overcome our difficulties. I learned that resilience is about turning challenges into growth. It’s about not giving up and finding ways to overcome obstacles. By sharing my journey, I helped others find strength too. Now, I know that no matter what happens, I can get through it, and I can help others do the same. This experience has also strengthened my dream of becoming a doctor, where these skills are important. I now believe that with perseverance and support, anything is possible.

Growing up with my parents in two different houses felt like having a secret I couldn’t share, and it made me feel different and out of place, but then I got to high school and my experiences helped me see myself as a future doctor and not the girl with divorced parents. When my parents divorced, my life totally changed. I remember feeling sad and alone, especially when I was around my friends who had both parents at home. I was embarrassed to my friends that I spent some weekends with my dad and others with my mom. My situation only made my social anxiety worse. I was always worried about what other people would think and found it hard to speak up for myself or feel confident. Living with just my mom in the beginning was not easy. She worked two jobs, not for extra, but to pay bills. To help, I got a part-time job at a grocery store, where I still work, which has taught me financial responsibility and helped me save for college. Despite my situation, my family and close friends have been supportive. Their constant encouragement has helped me overcome my self-doubt and lack of confidence and focus on what I can control, which is my future. Overcoming my social anxiety has been a process. With lots of therapy, I have learned to speak up and find my voice. My personal growth has led me to volunteer and give back to the community. Volunteering at the children’s hospital and children’s museum has inspired me to become a pediatrician and also helped me improve my communication and interpersonal skills. Working with the kids and seeing how hard the doctors and nurses work while always showing kindness and compassion had a huge impact on my decision. As an African American, I understand the importance of representation. I want to be a role model, showing kids they can achieve their dreams despite obstacles like divorce or having anxiety. Looking back, I've learned that overcoming challenges is about accepting who I am, changing how I look at things and using my experiences to help others. Going through therapy taught me how to be resilient and showed me the value of relying on the people who care about me. Despite my challenges, I look forward to contributing to the university's community by sharing my story and experiences with others. I believe I can bring a unique perspective to my future university where I plan to participate in clubs and organizations that celebrate diversity and inclusion and align with my values and commitment to the community as well as empowering others.

Getting off the elevator and walking to the pediatric unit on my first day, I felt nervous, anxious and excited at the same time. After receiving my assignment, I walked into the noisy playroom and by the end of the day I realized that medicine is where I was meant to be. For two years, I volunteered at Cone Health in the children's department. I met many kids there, including one who came from a single-parent home like me and was dealing with anxiety. By sharing my story with her and how I was managing my anxiety, I realized how important it can be sometimes to let others know they are not dealing with struggles by themselves. At the Greensboro Children’s Museum, where I also volunteered for a few years, I helped kids explore and learn through play. This experience taught me how to adapt activities to meet the different needs of children and helped me experience how to adjust to unique personalities. Leading a supply drive to collect pampers and wipes for single mothers with Level Up Parenting for one year was another important part of my volunteering journey. I learned how to organize donations and work with others to help the community. Similarly, for one year, I organized a drive for the Children's Home Society, where I led my classmates to help volunteer to support foster children by collecting toys and supplies. Throughout these experiences, I have maintained a 4.3 GPA, demonstrating my commitment to academics. I also work part-time at Harris Teeter, managing my time effectively to balance school, work, and volunteering. This taught me the importance of discipline and organization, skills that will be needed in my future as a pediatrician. Looking back, these experiences have changed me a lot. They helped me see how my own challenges can help me connect with and support others in helping them overcome challenges. I learned that I want to help kids not only with their health but also by being someone they can look up to and rely on. Volunteering taught me skills like empathy, leadership, and working well with others. These opportunities have also prepared me for college and being able to interact with diverse groups of people. As I work toward becoming a pediatrician, I take the lessons from all my volunteer work and community service. I am excited to make a difference by supporting and guiding children, showing them they can be whatever they want to be despite any challenges they face.

After my first full day of volunteering in the children’s hospital's playroom, I realized that the smallest acts of kindness could transform lives, and at that point, my dream of becoming a doctor was confirmed. From a young age, I have always felt a strong desire to help others, especially children who face tough challenges in life. From babysitting at the age of 12 to my current volunteer experiences at a children’s hospital and children's museum and organizing drives for single mothers and Children’s Home Society, I’ve seen how much of a difference one person can make. These experiences have deepened my commitment to supporting children and ensuring they have the opportunities they deserve. My journey hasn’t been without my own personal challenges. I’ve struggled with social anxiety, which made interacting with others difficult. Despite this, I pushed myself to work at a grocery store, where I am learning how to communicate better with diverse groups of people. With the support of my family and friends, I’ve found ways to overcome my anxiety. This has taught me the power of perseverance and the importance of stepping out of my comfort zone to achieve my goals. By studying biology in college, I plan to learn more about the human body and the scientific principles that affect health and disease. This knowledge will be needed as I pursue a career in public health and pediatrics, where I will work on issues such as childhood nutrition and disease prevention. My dream is to work as a pediatrician, where I can address and solve problems affecting children’s health and well-being, including diabetes and obesity. I am particularly interested in learning about health disparities and how to make sure that all children have fair access to healthcare and resources. I believe that with the right education which this scholarship can help me obtain, I can significantly improve children’s lives and health outcomes. Looking to the future, I want to be more than just a healthcare professional. I aspire to be a role model for children who face similar challenges that I did, such as dealing with anxiety or growing up in a single-parent household. By overcoming my own obstacles, I hope to inspire others to do the same and show them that they can achieve their dreams and help others along the way. My journey is about more than just personal success. It’s about creating positive change. I am dedicated to using my education and experiences to build a healthier, more equitable world for children everywhere.

When I was young, my severe allergies meant I often visited doctors who became my heroes. As a young African American girl dreaming of becoming a pediatrician, I aspire to be a role model, showing others that they can achieve their dreams no matter their background. My journey into the world of science began with my own experiences. My pediatrician and allergist were always there, listening and caring, and they inspired me to help others, just as they helped me. Watching my aunt battle leukemia was a pivotal moment in my life. I saw firsthand the dedication and compassion of the doctors and nurses who cared for her. They were always kind and worked tirelessly to provide the best care possible, even when she eventually passed away. Their commitment and empathy inspired me to want to make a similar impact as a doctor, offering kindness and hope to those in need. Volunteering at the children’s hospital and the children’s museum has only strengthened my desire to work with kids. At the hospital, I assist with activities that bring joy to young patients, teaching me the profound impact of kindness and support during challenging times. At the museum, I engage with children through interactive science exhibits, sparking curiosity and a love for learning about the world around them. Balancing a part-time job with school is challenging, and I often worry about financing my college education. This scholarship would alleviate some of that financial stress, allowing me to focus more intently on my studies. It would provide me with essential resources such as textbooks and supplies and enable me to participate in enriching extracurricular opportunities, like research and volunteer work. My ultimate dream is to attend medical school and become a pediatrician, serving communities where I can make a real difference in children’s health and well-being. I envision opening a clinic dedicated to providing exceptional care, particularly in areas where children might not often see doctors who look like them. I want to ensure that every child receives the healthcare they need, regardless of their background. Being a pediatrician will also allow me to serve as a role model for young African American girls, inspiring them to pursue careers in medicine and demonstrating that they can achieve anything they set their minds to. This scholarship represents more than just financial aid; it is a crucial stepping stone toward realizing my dreams and making a meaningful impact in my community and beyond. Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to contribute positively to the world of medicine, uplift others along the way, and inspire the next generation of dreamers and achievers.

As I enter my senior year, I feel excited and nervous. This year is an important point in my academic and personal journey. It's a perfect time to look back on what has shaped me and think about the path that lies ahead. Like India, my journey has also been about compassion, kindness, and a dedication to serving others. Looking ahead, I am excited about graduating high school and going to college. I see it as a chance to continue serving my community while getting closer to my goals. Volunteering at the local hospital over the past few years has been one of the most impactful experiences of my life. I spent many days during the summer delivering cards, gifts, and flowers from the gift shop to children and spending time reading to them. During these times, I understood the value of showing kindness to everyone. Seeing how happy the kids were when I walked in their rooms with a book or a gift made me realize how small acts of kindness can make a big difference. My volunteering experience inspired me to organize a pamper drive for Level Up Parenting and a Back to School drive for the Children's Home Society this year. Planning these projects taught me about the importance of empathy and leadership. I learned how to organize events, gather supplies, and work with others to make a difference. These projects showed me that helping others is not just about giving things; it’s about giving time, effort, and heart. I want to continue the spirit of giving with me into my future in medicine. I envision carrying India's legacy forward my goal of becoming a pediatrician and staying involved in community service projects, just as I continue to do now in high school. I want to be a doctor who is a role model for kids who look like me. Just like India dedicated her life to helping others, I hope to carry forward the same legacy of kindness and dedication. Compassion and kindness are some of the most important parts of who I am too, and I hope people can see this in me in everything I do. I am determined to make sure that everybody I meet experiences the same kindness no matter where they come from. By continuing India's legacy in my life, I hope this will show others how important it is to give back to others.

Think about not having a home to come home to or call your own or hardly, if ever, seeing your parents. When I decided to volunteer in my community and help others, I wanted to choose an organization that supported children and one where I could make an impact on the lives of others. I love kids and hope to one day become a pediatrician. Growing up with my mom after my parents' divorce taught me about determination and commitment. Seeing her work two jobs to take care of us made me realize how hard things were, and even worse, for kids in foster care who don't have parents to help them. My dream of working with children and my commitment to making a difference led me to organize a clothing and supply drive for the Children’s Home Society. When I started trying to organize the drive, I realized I would need help, so I asked a few of my friends at school. Together, we collected over 300 items, including clothes and toiletries, which directly impacted foster children in our community. The response from the people in my community made me feel proud of what I had put together. Every donation confirmed how much people cared about the foster kids. We collected important hygiene items like soap, shampoo, lotion, and other items, stuff many of us use every day without thinking. I was surprised and sad that some kids don't even have these basic things. Thinking back on the drive, I realize how much we can make an impact when we work together for a common cause. Each item donated showed the kids that people in their community care about what happens to them and want to try to make them happy even if they are not in the best situation. Even though I work a part-time job at the grocery store to help pay for some of the things I need and to save for college, it won't be enough. Receiving this scholarship would help decrease the financial burden of college, allowing me to focus on my education without constantly worrying about expenses like books and supplies. It would help me to continue my journey towards becoming a pediatrician, where I hope to make an even greater impact on children’s lives. Thank you for considering my application and supporting my dream of becoming a pediatrician who hopes to make a difference. Your support through this scholarship would help me get closer to my goals.

When I was young, my severe allergies meant frequent visits to doctors who became my role models. As an African American female who wants to be a pediatrician, I hope to become a role model for others, showing them they can achieve their dreams. My journey to wanting to pursue a degree in science began with my own experiences. My pediatrician and allergist listen, care, and inspire me to help others just like they help me. When my aunt was sick with leukemia, I saw how hard the doctors and nurses worked to take care of her. They were always kind and did everything they could to help, even though she eventually passed away. Their care inspired me to want to do the same for others as a doctor. Volunteering at the children’s hospital and the children’s museum has made me even more excited about working with kids as a pediatrician in the future. At the hospital, I help with fun activities that make young patients happy, showing me how important kindness is when things are tough. At the museum, I help with activities that make the kids want to learn more about science and exploring the world. Working part-time and balancing school and work is challenging, and I often worry about financing my college education. With this scholarship, I can focus less on financial stress and more on my studies. It will provide the resources I need, like books and supplies, and allow me to participate in extracurricular opportunities, such as research and volunteering. When I graduate, my main goal is to attend medical school and become a pediatrician. I want to work in communities where I can make a real difference in children’s health and well-being. My dream is to open a clinic that focuses on providing excellent care to kids, especially in areas where children may not see people like me. I want to make sure that every child is able to get the healthcare they need, regardless of their background. Being a pediatrician will also allow me to be a role model for young African American girls. I hope they will also decide to become doctors and know that they can achieve anything they set their minds to. This scholarship is more than financial aid; it’s a stepping stone to achieving my dreams and making a meaningful impact in my community and beyond. Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to contribute positively to the world of medicine and uplift others along the way. .

A Better Future: My Promises to Myself I imagine an older me in a world where I am healthier, happier, and smarter. That's my goal for the future. To make this happen, I promise myself three things: to keep learning, take care of my health, and help my community. Winning this scholarship would help me achieve these promises and become a pediatrician who can inspire others. First, I promise to keep learning all my life. As a future pediatrician, I will stay updated on changes in medicine. I love science, especially biology, and continuing to take Honors Biology classes at my school makes me excited to learn more in the future. Working part-time at the grocery store has taught me how to manage my time and be responsible, which will help me in college and as a doctor. This scholarship would help pay for college so I can focus on studying and learning, apply to internships, and explore opportunities in research. It would also let me buy important textbooks and materials I need to succeed. Second, I promise to make my health and well-being a priority. To take care of others, I must first care for myself. Volunteering at the children's museum and the hospital's pediatric floor has taught me about empathy and compassion. These experiences have shown me how important it is to stay physically and mentally healthy. The scholarship would reduce my financial stress, giving me more time to focus on my health and prepare me to be ready to care for my future patients. With less worry about money, I can spend more time on exercise and meditation, which are important for my well-being. Lastly, I am dedicated to giving back to the community. As a future African American female pediatrician, I want to be a role model for others who may not see themselves in the medical field. My volunteer work through my service learning projects has shown me the impact of giving back. With the scholarship, I can continue helping my community, reaching out to those in need, and inspiring others to follow their dreams. This scholarship is more than just money; it’s an investment in my future and my potential to make a positive difference. My commitments to lifelong learning, health, and giving back to my community are the steps to building my future. This scholarship is a key to opening opportunities that match my dreams. With this support, I can create a better future for myself and inspire others, showing that anything is possible with hard work and dedication.

Turning Challenges into Strength: My Journey with Allergies Every sneeze, runny nose, and allergy shot has taught me a lesson in resilience and inspired my dream to become a pediatrician who helps kids just like me. Living with allergies has been both challenging and inspiring, shaping my dreams of becoming a pediatrician. Managing my allergies is not just about taking shots or using my nasal spray; it's about figuring out how to get through everyday life without worrying about what people are thinking about me. There are times when I'm embarrassed and wondering what people are thinking because I'm coughing, my nose runs, or I have to blow it in front of them. It's hard to sleep at night because I feel like I can't breathe sometimes, and using my nose spray every day is something I wish I could stop doing. My allergies also limit where I can go and what I can use. I can't wear perfume, and I have to buy unscented soap to keep my allergies and eczema from flaring up. Certain places trigger my allergies, making it hard to go out with my friends and do fun things with them. Even with these challenges, I've learned how to adapt. My experiences make me want to help others, especially children who are going through the same things. I want to be a pediatrician who not only treats allergies but also understands how it affects kids. My favorite school subjects are honors biology classes. I enjoy learning about the human body and how it responds. These classes have helped me understand my allergies better and made me more determined to become a doctor. I want to let young patients know that it's okay to have allergies and that they're not alone in this journey. Many kids have long-term health issues. My goal is to create a safe and friendly place where they feel understood and cared for. I want to make a positive difference in their lives, just like my pediatrician has done for me. Looking ahead, I am excited to study biology in college and attend medical school. I want to focus on pediatrics so I can work with children and help them manage their allergies without being embarrassed. I'm also interested in finding new treatments to improve the lives of kids who live with long-term health issues. Volunteering at the hospital on the pediatric floor and the Children's Museum has only made me more determined to become a pediatrician. My allergies have motivated me to turn my personal challenges into future strength and inspiration for others. I want to use my experiences to encourage kids, showing them that challenges can be overcome and lead to good things.

The Power of Leadership and Science in Our Lives Imagine being able to change the world with your ideas and actions. That's the power of Leadership and science working together. In our everyday lives, science and Leadership are shaping the future in ways we do not even realize. Because of science, our technology with smartphones, A1, and robotics is constantly changing. We have robots now that perform certain surgeries, and our smartphones can even show us where our family and friends are every second. In the future, there will be more robotic surgeries, maybe even replacing doctors, and our smartphones will have more advanced technology. We already have cars that can drive themselves and prevent accidents. In the future, every call will be able to have this feature. Instead of going to the pharmacy for medications in the future, there may be driverless cars that deliver medicines to your house. Science helps us understand the world, solve problems, and improve our lives. Even now, scientists are working on finding cures for diseases and creating technology that reduces pollution and saves the climate. Some of this work includes new solar and wind power. This technology can improve our world and provide us with cleaner air, safer transportation, and even new ways to explore outer space. Scientists are also studying ways to grow food more efficiently to make sure everyone has enough to eat in the future as the population grows. For science and change, we also need Leadership. Leadership is about mentoring others and making decisions that lead us to a common goal. You don't have to be the president of the United States to be a leader. Even in school, you can show Leadership by helping a friend, starting a club, or leading a project. Leaders take the knowledge from science and use it to make smart choices that benefit everyone. When science and Leadership come together, change happens. Leaders who understand science can make decisions that impact our communities and the environment that will have a lasting impact many years from now. During the COVID-19 pandemic, scientists and leaders worked together to create and distribute vaccines, helping to save lives and bring us back to normal, which we are still using now and will use in the future. As students, we can be part of this change. By studying science and practicing Leadership, we can contribute to our future in a positive way. Whether through science fairs, team projects, or volunteering, there are many ways to get involved. I am a member of GO Green at my school, where we team up to make changes around our school, including recycling and planting. Science and Leadership are important now and even more so for our future. We need to think of ourselves as young leaders and future scientists. One day, we'll make new discoveries and lead the way to a better world.

From Anxiety to Aspiration: My Journey Toward a Future in Medicine The excitement of a crowded high school homecoming game was something I watched from a distance, feeling like part of a different world. Anxiety has been a big part of my life, affecting how I experience things. When it came to big school events like homecoming games and prom, I often stayed away. The thought of being in a large crowd made me nervous, my heart would start beating fast and my hands would get sweaty. While my classmates were always excited about these events, I found comfort alone, torn between wanting to join in and feeling safe at home. Even with these challenges, I know that overcoming anxiety starts with small steps. With support from a few close friends, I am learning to step out of my comfort zone. My friends understand me and encourage me to hang out in smaller groups. They never force me to be in large crowds. When I'm with them I learn not to overthink and to enjoy the moment. Each outing is a small win and shows my willingness to try to work on my anxiety. Managing my anxiety has also fueled my dream of going to college. I want to become a pediatrician—a doctor who cares for children—and my experience with anxiety can also be my strength. Because I’ve faced anxiety myself, I can feel empathy and understand young patients who might have similar fears. I want to be a doctor who not only treats illnesses but also offers support and comfort. The journey to becoming a pediatrician involves hard work and dedication, beginning with college. College is where I will gain the knowledge and skills I need. It’s a place for learning and growing, where I can be taught by experienced teachers in the medical field. The classes and hands-on experiences will prepare me to tackle the challenges of a medical career, so that I can give the best care to my future patients. My own experiences with anxiety that I continue to work on have shown me how important mental health is. As a pediatrician, I plan to bring mental health awareness into my work, providing care that looks at both physical and emotional health. I hope to create a safe space for children to share their fears and anxieties, giving them the support they need to succeed. While anxiety has played a big role in my life, it has also driven my growth and aspirations. It has taught me perseverance and empathy towards others. As I look forward, I am excited about the journey ahead—a path that leads to college, a career in medicine, and the chance to make a difference. By turning my challenges into strengths, I hope to inspire others to face their fears and chase their dreams with courage.

From Embarrassment to Empowerment: My Journey to Becoming a Pediatrician Growing up with my parents in two different homes felt like having a secret I couldn’t share, and it made me feel out of place. I often worried about being different, but then I discovered the magic of science, which helped me see a future where I could help kids like me as a pediatrician. When my parents divorced, it felt like my world turned upside down. I remember the confusion and sadness that just wouldn’t go away, especially when I was around my friends who had both parents at home. I felt different and embarrassed, like I stood out in a way I didn’t want to. It was hard to explain to my friends why I spent some weekends at my dad’s house and others at my mom’s. My awkward situation only made my social anxiety worse. I was always worried about what other people would think and found it hard to speak up or feel confident, especially in new or large groups. Living with just my mom was tough. We couldn't afford the things we used to have. My mom worked extra jobs, not for extra, but just to pay bills. To help out and buy my own things I needed, I got a part-time job at a grocery store, where I still work.This experience taught me financial responsibility and resilience, motivating me to pursue scholarships and focus on my education, to prepare me for my future. Despite these challenges, I was fortunate to have incredibly supportive parents even though they aren't together and a small group of really close friends. They reminded me that families come in all shapes and sizes, and that it was okay to feel the way I did. Their encouragement helped me to slowly embrace my situation and focus on what I could control: my future. Meeting Mr. Hefner, my science teacher, really changed the way I looked at science. His love for biology made it exciting for everyone in the class, especially me. One day, he talked about DNA and genetics, and it felt like he opened up a secret world. I was amazed by how these tiny strands hold the plans for all life. This class made me want to learn more and more. I realized then I wanted to be a doctor. I dreamed about using what I learned to help people, especially kids who might be facing tough times. Mr. Hefner made learning fun and showed me how powerful it can be. His class wasn’t just about grades; it was the start of something big for me. I’m so thankful for his inspiration and can’t wait to explore biology even more. Since then, I have gone on to take several Honors Biology content classes. Without him, I might have never found what I love. To pursue my dream, I began volunteering at the local children’s hospital. Walking into the hospital for the first time was both nerve-wracking and exciting. I was really impressed by how hard the doctors and nurses worked. They are very compassionate and take care of the kids every day. Watching them made me realize how much they care about helping the kids feel better. Watching them made me realize how much I wanted to be a part of that world. I wanted to be someone who could bring comfort and healing to children when they needed it most. In addition to the hospital, I volunteer at the children’s museum. There, I help design and set up exhibits that make learning about science fun for kids. When they get excited about new things it makes me excited for them. It reminds me of how I felt in Mr. Hefner’s class. Beyond volunteering, I have also organized clothing drives for the Children's Home Society. This organization supports children who are going through tough times, and I wanted to contribute in my own way. By collecting clothes, toys, and books, I hoped to bring some comfort and joy to their lives. Each drive has been a reminder of the positive impact we can have when we come together as a community. As an African American, I know how important it is to see people like me doing amazing things. It really matters to see that I can do it too. I want to be a role model for children, showing them that they too can achieve their dreams, no matter the obstacles they face. I believe that becoming a pediatrician will allow me to inspire and empower others, just as my science teacher inspired me. I want to help children live healthy lives and show them that they can achieve whatever they set their minds to. Looking back on my journey, I realize that it's been about more than just overcoming personal challenges. It's about accepting and loving who I am and using my experiences to help others. My parents' divorce and the social anxiety I faced taught me resilience and the importance of leaning on those who care about you. My love for biology, sparked by an amazing teacher, has driven me to pursue a career in medicine and become a pediatrician. Through volunteering and organizing drives, I've witnessed the positive impact we can have on children's lives. As I move forward to college and beyond, I am more determined than ever to be a source of hope and encouragement for others. I want to make a lasting impact in the world, using my skills and experiences to uplift and inspire those who will come behind me. Whether through medicine or community service, I am committed to being a force for good in the world, helping children and their families on their own journeys find hope and resilience.

Leading with Heart: My Path to Positive Change As a high school senior, I've learned that being a positive force in society often starts with small acts of kindness that can grow into something much greater. Being a positive force in society is something I feel very strongly about. Volunteering at the local hospital and the Children's Museum and organizing supply drives for the Children's Home Society have been a big part of my life, and they have helped me learn how I can make a difference, even in small ways. I spend time at the hospital in the pediatric unit. I love playing games and reading stories to the kids there. It's nice to see how just being there with them can make them so happy. Kindness and attention can really change how someone feels. Spending time with them makes me even more sure that I want to be a pediatrician someday to help kids feel better and grow healthy. Working at the Children's Museum is another way I try to make an impact. I organize activities and exhibits that help with creativity and learning. Society values community service and helping others, which is something I think is really important. Volunteering makes me feel part of something bigger and helps me learn to care about others. These experiences are helping me figure out who I am and who I want to be in the future. In the future, I want to be a pediatrician who helps kids get better and shows them how to be happy and healthy. The volunteering I do now is teaching me the compassion and understanding I'll need as a doctor. I also believe that being a positive force means learning from those around me. I have mentors at the hospital and the museum who have shown me the importance of patience and compassion. They have shown me that making a difference doesn't always mean doing big things; sometimes, it's just about listening and being there for someone who needs you. Today, social norms emphasize how important it is to help out and be kind, even in small ways. This makes me think about how I can do good things for my community, like volunteering and helping others. By doing these things regularly, I'm getting ready to be a pediatrician someday and learning how to be a kind and caring person who makes a difference in people's lives.

Dr. Maya Angelou, a celebrated poet and civil rights activist, once said, “You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them.” This quote speaks volumes about resilience and strength, qualities that I feel are essential to me right now as I complete my final year of high school and embark on a new journey. I first came across Dr. Angelou’s powerful message while looking for inspirational quotes during a particularly tough time in my life. Balancing rigorous classes, extracurricular activities, my part-time job, my mom constantly on my back about everything, and my anxiety over the upcoming junior and senior years had me feeling very overwhelmed. Maya Angelou's words reminded me that while I can’t control everything happening around me, I have the power to choose how I respond. She faced racism, violence, poverty, and her own mother even abandoned her as a child, yet she still did not let these challenges define her. Dr. Angelou’s resilience inspires my academic and career goals. I aspire to study biology and medicine with the goal of making an impact on the lives of others, particularly children. College is a time of personal growth, new experiences, and unexpected challenges. I know there will be many difficult days or times when I want to just give up, but Maya Angelou inspires me to remember my response to these challenges is shaping my current and future journey in life. Her determination motivates me to work hard and stay focused on my dream of becoming a pediatrician despite any obstacles I might face as an African American female in a male-dominated profession with very few minorities. Resilience is not about avoiding difficulties but about facing them with courage and a positive mindset. My anxiety does not define or reduce me. Although it is a part of me I have decided to embrace it and navigate my life around it rather than let it overpower me. I strive to embody Dr. Angelou’s resilience, empathy, and courage. Over the past few years, while volunteering at my local hospital, I have met many children dealing with serious health issues. I have always interacted with each child and their family with empathy and a commitment to help, no matter how challenging their situation. Carrying forward Dr. Angelou’s legacy means living by her words. I am dedicated to embodying her spirit of self-discipline and compassion in my journey through high school and beyond, ensuring that her influence allows me to always inspire and uplift others.

As I embark on my senior year, I am reminded that this is only the beginning of the next level on my journey to a life that allows me to have a meaningful impact on my future and the future of others in my community. Over the past three years, I have enjoyed giving back to my community and serving others while working part-time at the grocery store. I would have never thought the museum I used to run around in with my preschool friends and pretend I was shopping for groceries in my red shopping cart would be the same Children's Museum where I now volunteer and help little kids scan their plastic groceries and play imaginary games while creating a space of creativity and child development. But not all children can run, be free, and play unstructured. I learned this firsthand by volunteering at the hospital in my community. There, I read books to children who couldn't play at the children's museum but could still imagine a world of fun and fantasy through the books I read to them. Spending time at the hospital inspired me to organize a pamper drive this summer to collect baby items for Level Up Parenting and a Back to School drive for the local Children's Home Society. Volunteering and organizing the drives has also taught me valuable skills such as communication, empathy, patience, and compassion, which will help both in college and medical school and, ultimately, as a pediatrician. I have wanted to be a pediatrician for as long as I can remember. Last year, working as an intern in my high school Pathways program at the Child Development Center on the campus of the University of NC at Greensboro, as well as my experience volunteering and hosting drives in the community, confirmed for me that becoming a pediatrician is what I am meant to do. Although spending the rest of my life putting puzzles and Legos together would be ideal, it doesn't compare to my accomplishing my goal of becoming a doctor. However, my dreams will be costly. Being awarded this scholarship will decrease my financial burden, keep me from taking out more loans, help me not be so anxious about how I can pay for school, and allow me to focus more on one day becoming a compassionate pediatrician focused on positively impacting the lives of children and their families.

An influential person once said Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today. Only 5% of African Americans practice medicine in the US, and the percentage of African American pediatricians is even less. College for me means decreasing the racial gap of doctors in the US and one day being a positive role model for children who look like me but may have never seen someone like me in an office with a white coat and stethoscope. I will feel like I have accomplished my goal when I am known by others for giving the best care to all children regardless of race, gender preference, or cultural background. Going to college will allow me to start the process of seeing my dreams come to life and not live in poverty. College will open doors for me in the future that I may not have had the opportunity otherwise and help build my character, resilience, and confidence. Learning how to communicate effectively, adjust to different types of social conflicts, and possibly even form lifelong friendships are also advantages of going to college. College is more than just gaining knowledge, reading books, studying, and going to class; it is a tool to help me transition from being an inexperienced teenager to a young adult who is prepared for the world. There are many ways outside of college for some to achieve their goals, but for me, college is the only way. After completing high school, I plan to enroll in a four-year college or university to pursue a degree in sociology or biology and become a pediatrician. I consider myself a hard-working student passionate about STEM and lending my time to help others. Outside of academics, I love to put LEGOS and puzzles together and I work part-time at the local grocery store. I am actively involved at my school with GO Green Club, where I help organize and assist with projects to promote sustainability within our community, and I am a member of the National Honor Society and Service-Learning Club. My passion for pediatrics has been increased throughout my years of babysitting, hosting back-to-school drives for the Children's Home Society, and my active involvement in volunteering during the summer at the local hospital, Miriam P. Brenner Children's Museum, and American Red Cross and I hope I have impacted at least one person through volunteering.

"She's going to look different than when you last saw her. Try not to cry or stare at her too long" my mom said as we get out of the car. It was always a strange smell in the hospital and no one on the elevator going to my aunt's floor was ever smiling or laughing. I walked into the room, and my aunt looked nothing like she did just a few weeks ago. "Hey Jo Jo, how's Auntie's favorite niece?". "I'm your only niece, Aunt Roni," I said, fighting back tears as she laughed and held her chest at the same time. That had been our longstanding joke for the past 13 years. We talked about school and the new COVID virus everyone was talking about. I told her I was scared that I wouldn't be able to see my friends anymore if they decided to shut down the schools. She told me everything would be okay and remember, even if they shut the schools down, for me to keep aiming high. This was her favorite thing to say because she was an Air Force veteran. Two weeks later, my "favorite" only aunt was gone. After she passed, I knew I wanted to continue to make her proud. My aunt taught me while she was going through chemotherapy that no matter what obstacles come my way, I should focus on the most important things in my life. Right now that is my school work, making the best grades possible, and fighting any adversity that comes my way. Whether that be pushing myself to take more challenging classes or working to pay for college, I will make the best of my situation and work hard to achieve my goals in life. I have wanted to be a pediatrician for as long as I can remember. After going back and forth to the hospital so many times and seeing how everyone who worked there treated my aunt with kindness, even until the end, it only made me more focused on excelling in school and becoming a doctor. Throughout my years of babysitting, hosting back-to-school drives for the Children's Home Society, and my active involvement in volunteering during the summer at the local hospital and Miriam P. Brenner Children's Museum, I hope to make a difference in someone's life like my Aunt did in mine.

Facing a global pandemic head-on led me straight into a path of depression and anxiety. On March 25th, 2020, I received the news that not only would I be unable to run track, but my school was closing for the entire year. While transitioning to remote learning, I faced challenges as a hands-on learner. Adapting to this new format was difficult and affected my academic performance and mental well-being. I became disengaged and often spent most of my class time lying in bed, sleeping through class, and withdrawing from my family and friends. I had no idea at the time that was what depression and anxiety looked like. On top of all this, I lost my only aunt to leukemia, and my parents divorced that same year. My aunt was my role model. Watching her go through chemotherapy even when it wasn't helping made me realize that if she could try, then I needed to try to help myself. I talked to my mom about my depression, and she got me a therapist who helped me sort through my anger about the divorce and grief from my aunt's passing. Therapy made me feel stronger, gave me a clearer mind, and is helping me rechannel my negative thoughts into positive ones. I'm volunteering at the Children's Museum and the hospital every summer. I also work a part-time job on the weekends at the grocery store. I'm learning that staying busy also helps with depression and anxiety. My experience with depression and anxiety has taught me that life will always be full of challenges, even in high school, and how you handle them will define who you are and affect how you grow as a person. I am thankful for my strong support system. Even though my parents aren't together, they still work as a team to help and listen to me. I know that if they aren't able to help me or understand, then I have my therapist, who can give me direction and help me communicate my feelings. My goals are to achieve high academic success while maintaining my mental health. I believe going to college and getting an education will also help me to become more confident in who I am as a person, which will, in turn, help me to build lifelong relationships. I hope to shape the future, and one of the ways I can do this is through continuing my education beyond high school. Throughout my years of babysitting, working in the church daycare on Sundays, and my active involvement during the summer at the local hospital and Miriam P. Brenner Children's Museum, and most recently, with my mental health, I have been moved to seek a career dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of children, especially those who look like me and may not see many doctors who look like them. I also hope that my experience with managing my depression and anxiety will allow me to be a role model for children.