When I first started college, I was set on going to medical school. I knew I wanted to help people, and becoming a doctor seemed like the most direct and impactful path. But as I progressed through my courses and got involved in research, something changed. I discovered a deeper passion not just for treating patients, but for understanding the science behind the treatments. I became fascinated by the simple action of asking questions, testing ideas, and developing new technologies that could change how we care for patients in the first place. Now, my long-term goal is to become a biomedical engineering researcher and professor, focused on tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. My inspiration for going into healthcare began with my grandmother, who has type 1 diabetes. Growing up in a low-income first generation household, I witnessed firsthand how difficult it can be to access consistent, affordable treatment. Watching her navigate a complex and often inaccessible healthcare system opened my eyes to the deep inequities that exist, not just in treatment, but in the technologies available to those who need them. That experience made me want to be part of the solution. I want to contribute to innovations that improve healthcare, such as engineered tissues, regenerative biomaterials, or accessible therapeutic devices. I also want to help bring those breakthroughs to communities that are too often left behind. In parallel, I am equally passionate about education. I want to teach and mentor future biomedical engineers, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, and help build a field that reflects the diversity of the world it aims to serve. This shift in my path from aspiring physician to future researcher and professor came from a deeper reflection on the kind of impact I want to make. I am driven by curiosity, creativity, and a desire to serve others through science. I want to be part of the team that builds what doctors will use tomorrow, and I want to ensure those tools are designed with equity and empathy in mind. As someone whose journey has been shaped by financial barriers and personal experiences with inaccessible care, I believe that innovation must be both excellent and inclusive. Ultimately, I want to use science to make life better and to empower others to do the same. This scholarship would not only support my continued education, but also bring me one step closer to that vision: a career where I can research, teach, and lead with purpose.

Growing up as a first-generation student, I have always been committed to achieving academic excellence while also giving back to my community. Throughout my high school career, I have dedicated myself to various community service and leadership activities, including volunteering at senior housing buildings and serving as the District Governor for the New Jersey District Of Key Club International. As I prepare to embark on the next chapter of my academic journey, I am excited to announce that I will be majoring in Biomedical Engineering and minoring in Nonprofit Management. My goal is to pursue a career in medicine and become a neuro or cardiothoracic surgeon to help those in need. Additionally, I hope to use my knowledge and skills to give back to my community by contributing to the nonprofit sector and making a positive impact in this field. Growing up, I was taught the value of giving back to the community by my parents. They instilled in me the importance of helping others and making a positive impact in the world. As I grew older, this lesson stayed with me, and I became more involved in community service projects. I participated in various volunteering activities, such as organizing food drives and fundraisers, and tutoring underprivileged children in my area. These experiences allowed me to develop a greater sense of empathy and compassion, and I realized that there was nothing more fulfilling than being able to make a difference in someone else's life. As a first-generation student, I am determined to make the most of the opportunities that have been afforded to me. My parents have made many sacrifices to ensure that I could pursue my dreams, and I feel a strong sense of responsibility to honor their sacrifices by working hard and achieving my goals. Pursuing a degree in Biomedical Engineering and Nonprofit Management is my way of combining my passion for science and medicine with my desire to give back to society. In college, I plan to continue my involvement in community service and leadership activities . I believe that being engaged in extracurricular activities not only allows me to make a positive impact in the community but also helps me develop valuable skills that will be useful in my future career. I am eager to join clubs and organizations that align with my interests and values, such as Circle K International and the Society Of Hispanic Professional Engineers. My long-term goal is to become a doctor and work in underserved communities, both domestically and internationally. I want to use my skills and knowledge to help those who are most in need and make a lasting impact on their lives. Additionally, I plan to continue my involvement in the non-profit sector and contribute to organizations that work towards improving healthcare access and quality for disadvantaged communities. My commitment to community service, leadership, and academic excellence is deeply rooted in the values instilled in me by my parents. I am honored to be a first-generation student and determined to make the most of the opportunities that have been afforded to me. Pursuing a career in medicine and contributing to the nonprofit sector is my way of giving back to the community and making a positive impact in the world. I am excited to embark on this journey and see where it takes me.