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Jiaqi Shi

2x

Finalist

1x

Winner

General information

Hobbies & Interests

  • Cooking
  • Baking
  • Knitting
  • Psychology
  • Social Sciences
  • Environmental Science and Sustainability
  • Community Service And Volunteering

Reading

  • Mystery
  • Social Science
  • Romance
  • Young Adult
  • Science Fiction

I read books multiple times a month.

Bio

Hello! I'm Jiaqi, an undergraduate sophomore majoring in biological sciences at Binghamton University. I'm enrolled in the First-year Research Immersion (FRI) program, studying garlic's effect on Escherichia coli biofilm-associated infections on food industrial surfaces. I'm interested in a career in pharmaceutical sciences and enrolled in Binghamton University's Pharmacy Early Assurance Program (PEAP) on the 2+4 track. I plan on getting my Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree in six years. My goal is to become a caring and knowledgeable pharmacist to make a positive impact on the health and well-being of my community, providing personalized care and guidance to people in need. Bold.org can help me reduce the financial stress of attending college. As a first-generation college student, as well as the oldest of 4 children, I'm the first in my family to go to college. I want to focus on my studies and enjoy my college experience without having to worry about financially burdening my family with tuition costs and other fees. I am passionate about supporting my community, promoting learning and personal development, and empowering people to take control of their health.

Education

Binghamton University

Bachelor's degree program

2023 – 2027

Majors:
  • Biology, General

Miscellaneous

Desired degree level:
Doctoral degree program (PhD, MD, JD, etc.)
Majors of interest:
Biological and Physical Sciences, Human Biology, Biology, General
Medical school interest:
No

Career

  • Camp Counselor

    Education · Crestwood Country Day Camp

    Jan 2023 – Jan 2024

  • Team Member

    Food & Beverages · Peri-Peri Guys

    Jan 2022 – Jan 2022

Miscellaneous

Dream career field:
Medicine
Dream career goals:
Pharmacist
Has nursing license:
No

Future Interests

  • Advocacy
  • Volunteering
  • Philanthropy
STEAM Generator Scholarship
I was born with two languages, two cultures, and a responsibility I didn’t fully understand until years later. When my family immigrated to the United States from China, we had nothing but our hopes for a better life. I was just a toddler, too young to grasp the challenges we would face, but as I grew, I learned quickly what it meant to carry the weight of an immigrant’s journey. My parents, who worked long hours in low-wage jobs, made countless sacrifices so that I could have opportunities they never had. Their story of resilience is my story, and it has shaped every step of my journey, including my decision to pursue higher education. As the first in my family to attend college, I’ve learned to navigate an education system that was completely unfamiliar to my parents. While they worked tirelessly—my mom as a nail technician and my dad as a delivery driver—I translated for them: legal documents, healthcare forms, and even conversations with teachers and doctors. Each task, though seemingly small, was a reminder of the invisible responsibility I carried as the bridge between two worlds. It was during this time that I realized how much power education has to break down barriers. It became my ticket to providing my family with the opportunities they never had. Being a first-generation student came with its own set of challenges. Not only did I need to excel academically, but I also had to balance my family’s needs. The pressure was overwhelming at times, but it fueled my drive to succeed. I realized that my education was not just for me; it was a way to honor my parents’ sacrifices and build a better future for us all. The weight of their journey pushed me to perform at my best, and it has shaped my career aspirations. Today, as a sophomore majoring in Biological Sciences at Binghamton University, I am determined to make my parents’ sacrifices meaningful by pursuing a career in pharmacy. I’ve seen firsthand how healthcare disparities affect communities like mine. Growing up, my family often struggled to navigate the complex healthcare system due to language barriers and a lack of resources. Pharmacists, I’ve learned, play an essential role in bridging that gap. They not only dispense medication but also provide education and guidance to help individuals make informed health decisions. I want to be that resource for my community, acting as a guide who can navigate the complexities of healthcare and empower others to take control of their health. My immigrant experience has profoundly shaped my educational journey and my future goals. It has taught me resilience, empathy, and the importance of giving back. As I continue my studies and work toward my goal of becoming a pharmacist, I aim to serve underserved communities and ensure everyone has access to the healthcare they deserve. This scholarship would help me get one step closer to that goal, allowing me to continue my education and work toward creating a better future for my family and my community.
Jiaqi Shi Student Profile | Bold.org