When 14, I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. In the summer of 2019 as a 15-year-old, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields, Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, made stretchers, brought patients to and from the operating room, and provided carry-out services after discharge instructions were discussed. After hours at home, I was researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. This led to the formation of several large binders of notes that allowed me to have conversations with the medical professionals that I have worked with. The hospital became my new home, my heart. My freshman year in college and currently , I work per-diem at A.O. Fox Hospital as a Patient Care Assistant (PCA). I take vitals, feed patients, obtain glucose levels, provide toileting, bathing, bed changes, obtain samples for labs, carry out intentional rounds, give reports, assist in discharge instructions and provide carry out services. I also would be involved in telemetry, responding to codes. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim or for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. I want to be a role model for anyone who does not think it is possible to battle through adversity. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams.

When 14, I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. In the summer of 2019 as a 15-year-old, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields, Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, made stretchers, brought patients to and from the operating room, and provided carry-out services after discharge instructions were discussed. After hours at home, I was researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. This led to the formation of several large binders of notes that allowed me to have conversations with the medical professionals that I have worked with. The hospital became my new home, my heart. My freshman year in college and currently , I work per-diem at A.O. Fox Hospital as a Patient Care Assistant (PCA). I take vitals, feed patients, obtain glucose levels, provide toileting, bathing, bed changes, obtain samples for labs, carry out intentional rounds, give reports, assist in discharge instructions and provide carry out services. I also would be involved in telemetry, responding to codes. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim or for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. I want to be a role model for anyone who does not think it is possible to battle through adversity. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams.

When 14, I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. In the summer of 2019 as a 15-year-old, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields, Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, made stretchers, brought patients to and from the operating room, and provided carry-out services after discharge instructions were discussed. After hours at home, I was researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. This led to the formation of several large binders of notes that allowed me to have conversations with the medical professionals that I have worked with. The hospital became my new home, my heart. My freshman year in college and currently , I work per-diem at A.O. Fox Hospital as a Patient Care Assistant (PCA). I take vitals, feed patients, obtain glucose levels, provide toileting, bathing, bed changes, obtain samples for labs, carry out intentional rounds, give reports, assist in discharge instructions and provide carry out services. I also would be involved in telemetry, responding to codes. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim or for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. I want to be a role model for anyone who does not think it is possible to battle through adversity. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams.

When 14, I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. In the summer of 2019 as a 15-year-old, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields, Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, made stretchers, brought patients to and from the operating room, and provided carry-out services after discharge instructions were discussed. After hours at home, I was researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. This led to the formation of several large binders of notes that allowed me to have conversations with the medical professionals that I have worked with. The hospital became my new home, my heart. My freshman year in college and currently , I work per-diem at A.O. Fox Hospital as a Patient Care Assistant (PCA). I take vitals, feed patients, obtain glucose levels, provide toileting, bathing, bed changes, obtain samples for labs, carry out intentional rounds, give reports, assist in discharge instructions and provide carry out services. I also would be involved in telemetry, responding to codes. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim or for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. I want to be a role model for anyone who does not think it is possible to battle through adversity. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams.

When 14, I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. In the summer of 2019 as a 15-year-old, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields, Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, made stretchers, brought patients to and from the operating room, and provided carry-out services after discharge instructions were discussed. After hours at home, I was researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. This led to the formation of several large binders of notes that allowed me to have conversations with the medical professionals that I have worked with. The hospital became my new home, my heart. My freshman year in college and currently , I work per-diem at A.O. Fox Hospital as a Patient Care Assistant (PCA). I take vitals, feed patients, obtain glucose levels, provide toileting, bathing, bed changes, obtain samples for labs, carry out intentional rounds, give reports, assist in discharge instructions and provide carry out services. I also would be involved in telemetry, responding to codes.

When 14, I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. In the summer of 2019 as a 15-year-old, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields, Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, made stretchers, brought patients to and from the operating room, and provided carry-out services after discharge instructions were discussed. After hours at home, I was researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. This led to the formation of several large binders of notes that allowed me to have conversations with the medical professionals that I have worked with. The hospital became my new home, my heart. My freshman year in college and currently , I work per-diem at A.O. Fox Hospital as a Patient Care Assistant (PCA). I take vitals, feed patients, obtain glucose levels, provide toileting, bathing, bed changes, obtain samples for labs, carry out intentional rounds, give reports, assist in discharge instructions and provide carry out services. I also would be involved in telemetry, responding to codes.

When 14, I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. In the summer of 2019 as a 15-year-old, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields, Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, made stretchers, brought patients to and from the operating room, and provided carry-out services after discharge instructions were discussed. After hours at home, I was researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. This led to the formation of several large binders of notes that allowed me to have conversations with the medical professionals that I have worked with. The hospital became my new home, my heart. My freshman year in college and currently , I work per-diem at A.O. Fox Hospital as a Patient Care Assistant (PCA). I take vitals, feed patients, obtain glucose levels, provide toileting, bathing, bed changes, obtain samples for labs, carry out intentional rounds, give reports, assist in discharge instructions and provide carry out services. I also would be involved in telemetry, responding to codes.

When 14, I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. In the summer of 2019 as a 15-year-old, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields, Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, made stretchers, brought patients to and from the operating room, and provided carry-out services after discharge instructions were discussed. After hours at home, I was researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. This led to the formation of several large binders of notes that allowed me to have conversations with the medical professionals that I have worked with. The hospital became my new home, my heart. My freshman year in college and currently , I work per-diem at A.O. Fox Hospital as a Patient Care Assistant (PCA). I take vitals, feed patients, obtain glucose levels, provide toileting, bathing, bed changes, obtain samples for labs, carry out intentional rounds, give reports, assist in discharge instructions and provide carry out services. I also would be involved in telemetry, responding to codes.

When 14, I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. In the summer of 2019 as a 15-year-old, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields, Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, made stretchers, brought patients to and from the operating room, and provided carry-out services after discharge instructions were discussed. After hours at home, I was researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. This led to the formation of several large binders of notes that allowed me to have conversations with the medical professionals that I have worked with. The hospital became my new home, my heart. My freshman year in college and currently , I work per-diem at A.O. Fox Hospital as a Patient Care Assistant (PCA). I take vitals, feed patients, obtain glucose levels, provide toileting, bathing, bed changes, obtain samples for labs, carry out intentional rounds, give reports, assist in discharge instructions and provide carry out services. I also would be involved in telemetry, responding to codes.

When 14, I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. In the summer of 2019 as a 15-year-old, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields, Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, made stretchers, brought patients to and from the operating room, and provided carry-out services after discharge instructions were discussed. After hours at home, I was researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. This led to the formation of several large binders of notes that allowed me to have conversations with the medical professionals that I have worked with. The hospital became my new home, my heart. My freshman year in college and currently , I work per-diem at A.O. Fox Hospital as a Patient Care Assistant (PCA). I take vitals, feed patients, obtain glucose levels, provide toileting, bathing, bed changes, obtain samples for labs, carry out intentional rounds, give reports, assist in discharge instructions and provide carry out services. I also would be involved in telemetry, responding to codes.

When 14, I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. In the summer of 2019 as a 15-year-old, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields, Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, made stretchers, brought patients to and from the operating room, and provided carry-out services after discharge instructions were discussed. After hours at home, I was researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. This led to the formation of several large binders of notes that allowed me to have conversations with the medical professionals that I have worked with. The hospital became my new home, my heart. My freshman year in college and currently , I work per-diem at A.O. Fox Hospital as a Patient Care Assistant (PCA). I take vitals, feed patients, obtain glucose levels, provide toileting, bathing, bed changes, obtain samples for labs, carry out intentional rounds, give reports, assist in discharge instructions and provide carry out services. I also would be involved in telemetry, responding to codes.

When 14, I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. In the summer of 2019 as a 15-year-old, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields, Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, made stretchers, brought patients to and from the operating room, and provided carry-out services after discharge instructions were discussed. After hours at home, I was researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. This led to the formation of several large binders of notes that allowed me to have conversations with the medical professionals that I have worked with. The hospital became my new home, my heart. My freshman year in college and currently , I work per-diem at A.O. Fox Hospital as a Patient Care Assistant (PCA). I take vitals, feed patients, obtain glucose levels, provide toileting, bathing, bed changes, obtain samples for labs, carry out intentional rounds, give reports, assist in discharge instructions and provide carry out services. I also would be involved in telemetry, responding to codes.

When 14, I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. In the summer of 2019 as a 15-year-old, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields, Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, made stretchers, brought patients to and from the operating room, and provided carry-out services after discharge instructions were discussed. After hours at home, I was researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. This led to the formation of several large binders of notes that allowed me to have conversations with the medical professionals that I have worked with. The hospital became my new home, my heart. My freshman year in college and currently , I work per-diem at A.O. Fox Hospital as a Patient Care Assistant (PCA). I take vitals, feed patients, obtain glucose levels, provide toileting, bathing, bed changes, obtain samples for labs, carry out intentional rounds, give reports, assist in discharge instructions and provide carry out services. I also would be involved in telemetry, responding to codes.

When 14, I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. In the summer of 2019 as a 15-year-old, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields, Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, made stretchers, brought patients to and from the operating room, and provided carry-out services after discharge instructions were discussed. After hours at home, I was researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. This led to the formation of several large binders of notes that allowed me to have conversations with the medical professionals that I have worked with. The hospital became my new home, my heart. My freshman year in college and currently , I work per-diem at A.O. Fox Hospital as a Patient Care Assistant (PCA). I take vitals, feed patients, obtain glucose levels, provide toileting, bathing, bed changes, obtain samples for labs, carry out intentional rounds, give reports, assist in discharge instructions and provide carry out services. I also would be involved in telemetry, responding to codes.

When 14, I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. In the summer of 2019 as a 15-year-old, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields, Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, made stretchers, brought patients to and from the operating room, and provided carry-out services after discharge instructions were discussed. After hours at home, I was researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. This led to the formation of several large binders of notes that allowed me to have conversations with the medical professionals that I have worked with. The hospital became my new home, my heart. My freshman year in college and currently , I work per-diem at A.O. Fox Hospital as a Patient Care Assistant (PCA). I take vitals, feed patients, obtain glucose levels, provide toileting, bathing, bed changes, obtain samples for labs, carry out intentional rounds, give reports, assist in discharge instructions and provide carry out services. I also would be involved in telemetry, responding to codes.

When 14, I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. In the summer of 2019 as a 15-year-old, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields, Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, made stretchers, brought patients to and from the operating room, and provided carry-out services after discharge instructions were discussed. After hours at home, I was researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. This led to the formation of several large binders of notes that allowed me to have conversations with the medical professionals that I have worked with. The hospital became my new home, my heart. My freshman year in college and currently , I work per-diem at A.O. Fox Hospital as a Patient Care Assistant (PCA). I take vitals, feed patients, obtain glucose levels, provide toileting, bathing, bed changes, obtain samples for labs, carry out intentional rounds, give reports, assist in discharge instructions and provide carry out services. I also would be involved in telemetry, responding to codes.

When 14, I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. In the summer of 2019 as a 15-year-old, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields, Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, made stretchers, brought patients to and from the operating room, and provided carry-out services after discharge instructions were discussed. After hours at home, I was researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. This led to the formation of several large binders of notes that allowed me to have conversations with the medical professionals that I have worked with. The hospital became my new home, my heart. My freshman year in college and currently , I work per-diem at A.O. Fox Hospital as a Patient Care Assistant (PCA). I take vitals, feed patients, obtain glucose levels, provide toileting, bathing, bed changes, obtain samples for labs, carry out intentional rounds, give reports, assist in discharge instructions and provide carry out services. I also would be involved in telemetry, responding to codes.

When 14, I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. In the summer of 2019 as a 15-year-old, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields, Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, made stretchers, brought patients to and from the operating room, and provided carry-out services after discharge instructions were discussed. After hours at home, I was researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. This led to the formation of several large binders of notes that allowed me to have conversations with the medical professionals that I have worked with. The hospital became my new home, my heart. My freshman year in college and currently , I work per-diem at A.O. Fox Hospital as a Patient Care Assistant (PCA). I take vitals, feed patients, obtain glucose levels, provide toileting, bathing, bed changes, obtain samples for labs, carry out intentional rounds, give reports, assist in discharge instructions and provide carry out services. I also would be involved in telemetry, responding to codes.

When 14, I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. In the summer of 2019 as a 15-year-old, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields, Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, made stretchers, brought patients to and from the operating room, and provided carry-out services after discharge instructions were discussed. After hours at home, I was researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. This led to the formation of several large binders of notes that allowed me to have conversations with the medical professionals that I have worked with. The hospital became my new home, my heart. My freshman year in college and currently , I work per-diem at A.O. Fox Hospital as a Patient Care Assistant (PCA). I take vitals, feed patients, obtain glucose levels, provide toileting, bathing, bed changes, obtain samples for labs, carry out intentional rounds, give reports, assist in discharge instructions and provide carry out services. I also would be involved in telemetry, responding to codes.

When 14, I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. In the summer of 2019 as a 15-year-old, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields, Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, made stretchers, brought patients to and from the operating room, and provided carry-out services after discharge instructions were discussed. After hours at home, I was researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. This led to the formation of several large binders of notes that allowed me to have conversations with the medical professionals that I have worked with. The hospital became my new home, my heart. My freshman year in college and currently , I work per-diem at A.O. Fox Hospital as a Patient Care Assistant (PCA). I take vitals, feed patients, obtain glucose levels, provide toileting, bathing, bed changes, obtain samples for labs, carry out intentional rounds, give reports, assist in discharge instructions and provide carry out services. I also would be involved in telemetry, responding to codes.

In the summer of 2019 as a 15-year-old, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields, Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, made stretchers, brought patients to and from the operating room, and provided carry-out services after discharge instructions were discussed. After hours at home, I was researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. This led to the formation of several large binders of notes that allowed me to have conversations with the medical professionals that I have worked with. The hospital became my new home, my heart. My freshman year in college and currently , I work per-diem at A.O. Fox Hospital as a Patient Care Assistant (PCA). I take vitals, feed patients, obtain glucose levels, provide toileting, bathing, bed changes, obtain samples for labs, carry out intentional rounds, give reports, assist in discharge instructions and provide carry out services. I also would be involved in telemetry, responding to codes.

I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim or for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. I want to be a role model for anyone who does not think it is possible to battle through adversity. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams. In the summer of 2019 as a 15-year-old, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields, Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, made stretchers, brought patients to and from the operating room, and provided carry-out services after discharge instructions were discussed. After hours at home, I was researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. This led to the formation of several large binders of notes that allowed me to have conversations with the medical professionals that I have worked with. The hospital became my new home, my heart. My freshman year in college and currently , I work per-diem at A.O. Fox Hospital as a Patient Care Assistant (PCA). I take vitals, feed patients, obtain glucose levels, provide toileting, bathing, bed changes, obtain samples for labs, carry out intentional rounds, give reports, assist in discharge instructions and provide carry out services. I also would be involved in telemetry, responding to codes.

When 14, I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. Summer of 2019 as a 15-year-old, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields, Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, made stretchers, brought patients to and from the operating room, and provided carry-out services after discharge instructions were discussed. My freshman year in college and currently, I work per-diem at A.O. Fox Hospital as a Patient Care Assistant (PCA). I take vitals, feed patients, obtain glucose levels, provide toileting, bathing, bed changes, obtain samples for labs, carry out intentional rounds, give reports, assist in discharge instructions, and provide carry out services. I also would be involved in telemetry, responding to codes. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for, to be a role model for anyone who does not think it is possible to battle through adversity.

When 14, I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. In the summer of 2019 as a 15-year-old, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields, Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, made stretchers, brought patients to and from the operating room, and provided carry-out services after discharge instructions were discussed. After hours at home, I was researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. This led to the formation of several large binders of notes that allowed me to have conversations with the medical professionals that I have worked with. The hospital became my new home, my heart. My freshman year in college and currently , I work per-diem at A.O. Fox Hospital as a Patient Care Assistant (PCA). I take vitals, feed patients, obtain glucose levels, provide toileting, bathing, bed changes, obtain samples for labs, carry out intentional rounds, give reports, assist in discharge instructions and provide carry out services. I also would be involved in telemetry, responding to codes.

When 14, I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. In the summer of 2019 as a 15-year-old, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields, Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, made stretchers, brought patients to and from the operating room, and provided carry-out services after discharge instructions were discussed. After hours at home, I was researching medical terminology, sketched anatomical diagrams, and learned how to suture. This led to the formation of several large binders of notes that allowed me to have conversations with the medical professionals that I have worked with. The hospital became my new home, my heart. My freshman year in college and currently, I work per-diem at A.O. Fox Hospital as a Patient Care Assistant (PCA). I take vitals, feed patients, obtain glucose levels, provide toileting, bathing, bed changes, obtain samples for labs, carry out intentional rounds, give reports, assist in discharge instructions and provide carry out services. I also would be involved in telemetry, responding to codes.

When 14, I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. In the summer of 2019 as a 15-year-old, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields, Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, made stretchers, brought patients to and from the operating room, and provided carry-out services after discharge instructions were discussed. After hours at home, I was researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. This led to the formation of several large binders of notes that allowed me to have conversations with the medical professionals that I have worked with. The hospital became my new home, my heart. My freshman year in college and currently , I work per-diem at A.O. Fox Hospital as a Patient Care Assistant (PCA). I take vitals, feed patients, obtain glucose levels, provide toileting, bathing, bed changes, obtain samples for labs, carry out intentional rounds, give reports, assist in discharge instructions and provide carry out services. I also would be involved in telemetry, responding to codes. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim or for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. I want to be a role model for anyone who does not think it is possible to battle through adversity. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams.

I aspire to become an Orthopedic Surgeon. When 14, I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. In the summer of 2019 as a 15-year-old, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields, Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, made stretchers, brought patients to and from the operating room, and provided carry-out services after discharge instructions were discussed. After hours at home, I was researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. This led to the formation of several large binders of notes that allowed me to have intellectual conversations with the medical professionals that I have worked with. My goal is to actively become a role model while in the pursuit of becoming a doctor and once in practice so that my level of success is seen by younger generations as an inspiration or to anyone who had an injury or suffered from any form of abuse, and/or comes from a low-income family. In addition, I am pushing to enter the medical field in order to be another female entering a masculine profession.

"No patient shall ever feel inferior to a physician, but as if they are friends". At the age of 15, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields: Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and General Surgery. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, helped gown patients, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assist in discharge and carry out services. After hours at home, I was putting together my own medical textbooks by researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. All of the information learned has resulted in multiple large binders which have led me to have very deep, yet intellectual conversations with the medical professionals and patients that I have interacted with. While working at Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated and I was valued for my time that I dedicated to better enhance my experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse or for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. My goal is to be a role model for anyone who does not think it is possible to battle through adversity, for those coming from low-income families and or first-generation college students. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams!

"No patient shall ever feel inferior to a physician, but as if they are friends" At the age of 15, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields: Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and General Surgery. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, helped gown patients, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assist in discharge and carry out services. After hours at home, I was putting together my own medical textbooks by researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. All of the information learned has resulted in multiple large binders which have led me to have very deep, yet intellectual conversations with the medical professionals and patients that I have interacted with. While working at Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated and I was valued for my time that I dedicated to better enhance my experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse or for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. My goal is to be a role model for anyone who does not think it is possible to battle through adversity, for those coming from low-income families and or first-generation college students. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams!

At the age of 15, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields: Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and General Surgery. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, helped gown patients, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assist in discharge and carry out services. After hours at home, I was putting together my own medical textbooks by researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. All of the information learned has resulted in multiple large binders which have led me to have very deep, yet intellectual conversations with the medical professionals and patients that I have interacted with. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse or for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. My goal is to be a role model for anyone who does not think it is possible to battle through adversity, for those coming from low-income families and or first-generation college students. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams!

At the age of 15, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields: Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and General Surgery. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, helped gown patients, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assist in discharge and carry out services. After hours at home, I was putting together my own medical textbooks by researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. All of the information learned has resulted in multiple large binders which have led me to have very deep, yet intellectual conversations with the medical professionals and patients that I have interacted with. While working at Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated and I was valued for my time that I dedicated to better enhance my experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse or for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. My goal is to be a role model for anyone who does not think it is possible to battle through adversity, for those coming from low-income families and or first-generation college students. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams!

At the age of 15, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields: Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and General Surgery. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, helped gown patients, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assist in discharge and carry out services. After hours at home, I was putting together my own medical textbooks by researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. All of the information learned has resulted in multiple large binders which have led me to have very deep, yet intellectual conversations with the medical professionals and patients that I have interacted with. While working at Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated and I was valued for my time that I dedicated to better enhance my experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse or for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. My goal is to be a role model for anyone who does not think it is possible to battle through adversity, for those coming from low-income families and or first-generation college students. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams!

At the age of 15, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields: Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and General Surgery. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, helped gown patients, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assist in discharge and carry out services. After hours at home, I was putting together my own medical textbooks by researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. All of the information learned has resulted in multiple large binders which have led me to have very deep, yet intellectual conversations with the medical professionals and patients that I have interacted with. While working at Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated and I was valued for my time that I dedicated to better enhance my experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse or for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. My goal is to be a role model for anyone who does not think it is possible to battle through adversity, for those coming from low-income families and or first-generation college students. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams!

I aspire to become an Orthopedic Surgeon as I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. In the summer of 2019 as a 15-year-old, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields, Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, made stretchers, brought patients to and from the operating room, and provided carry-out services after discharge instructions were discussed. After hours at home, I was researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. This led to the formation of several large binders of notes that allowed me to have intellectual conversations with the medical professionals that I have worked with. At Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was highly appreciated and I was valued for the time that I dedicated to enhancing my working experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. Currently, I am a full-time freshman in college. I am the Secretary of the Exercise Science Club and a member of the Pre-Health Club. I have two on-campus jobs, one as a “night host” working from 11:00 pm- 2:00 am weekly by checking residents’ ID’s for security reasons, and I am a tour guide for my university. Over college academic breaks, I work at my hometown hospital as a PCA (Patient Care Assistant), to increase my chances of getting into my top choice medical school. As my dream is to become a doctor as a result of my personal orthopedic experience, it’s much more than me just falling in love with learning anatomy and medical terminology independently as I learned a tremendous amount on my own and from my work experience. It’s from the strong connection I have formed with my former physician. My goal is to actively become a role model while in the pursuit of becoming a doctor and once in practice so that my level of success is seen by younger generations as an inspiration or to anyone who had an injury or suffered from any form of abuse, and/or comes from a low-income family. In addition, I am pushing to enter the medical field in order to be another female entering a masculine profession. While I am in practice, I will forever advocate for my patients more than what they come in the clinic for. I will implement my former physician’s ways of the practice of creating a rapport with my patients, to instill trust and a lasting friendship. My work will be meaningful, not just for me but for my patients, society, and generations to come.

I aspire to become an Orthopedic Surgeon as I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. In the summer of 2019 as a 15-year-old, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields, Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, made stretchers, brought patients to and from the operating room, and provided carry-out services after discharge instructions were discussed. After hours at home, I was researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. This led to the formation of several large binders of notes that allowed me to have intellectual conversations with the medical professionals that I have worked with. I have been able to work over consecutive summers as well as winter breaks in college. My goal is to be a role model for those who have come from abuse, a low-income family, or those who are first-generation college students.

I aspire to become an Orthopedic Surgeon as I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. In the summer of 2019 as a 15-year-old, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields, Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, made stretchers, brought patients to and from the operating room, and provided carry-out services after discharge instructions were discussed. After hours at home, I was researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. This led to the formation of several large binders of notes that allowed me to have intellectual conversations with the medical professionals that I have worked with. I have been able to work over consecutive summers as well as winter breaks in college. My goal is to be a role model for those who have come from abuse, a low-income family, or those who are first-generation college students.

I aspire to become an Orthopedic Surgeon as I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. In the summer of 2019 as a 15-year-old, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields, Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, made stretchers, brought patients to and from the operating room, and provided carry-out services after discharge instructions were discussed. After hours at home, I was researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. This led to the formation of several large binders of notes that allowed me to have intellectual conversations with the medical professionals that I have worked with. I have been able to work over consecutive summers as well as winter breaks in college. My goal is to be a role model for those who have come from abuse, a low-income family, or those who are first-generation college students.

I aspire to become an Orthopedic Surgeon as I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. In the summer of 2019 as a 15-year-old, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields, Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, made stretchers, brought patients to and from the operating room, and provided carry-out services after discharge instructions were discussed. After hours at home, I was researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. This led to the formation of several large binders of notes that allowed me to have intellectual conversations with the medical professionals that I have worked with. I have been able to work over consecutive summers as well as winter breaks in college. My goal is to be a role model for those who have come from abuse, a low-income family, or those who are first-generation college students.

I aspire to become an Orthopedic Surgeon as I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. In the summer of 2019 as a 15-year-old, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields, Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, made stretchers, brought patients to and from the operating room, and provided carry-out services after discharge instructions were discussed. After hours at home, I was researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. This led to the formation of several large binders of notes that allowed me to have intellectual conversations with the medical professionals that I have worked with. I have been able to work over consecutive summers as well as winter breaks in college. My goal is to be a role model for those who have come from abuse, a low-income family, or those who are first-generation college students.

I aspire to become an Orthopedic Surgeon as I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. In the summer of 2019 as a 15-year-old, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields, Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, made stretchers, brought patients to and from the operating room, and provided carry-out services after discharge instructions were discussed. After hours at home, I was researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. This led to the formation of several large binders of notes that allowed me to have intellectual conversations with the medical professionals that I have worked with. I have been able to work over consecutive summers as well as winter breaks in college. My goal is to be a role model for those who have come from abuse, a low-income family, or those who are first-generation college students.

I aspire to become an Orthopedic Surgeon as I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. In the summer of 2019 as a 15-year-old, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields, Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, made stretchers, brought patients to and from the operating room, and provided carry-out services after discharge instructions were discussed. After hours at home, I was researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. This led to the formation of several large binders of notes that allowed me to have intellectual conversations with the medical professionals that I have worked with. I have been able to work over consecutive summers as well as winter breaks in college. My goal is to be a role model for those who have come from abuse, a low-income family, or those who are first-generation college students”.

I aspire to become an Orthopedic Surgeon as I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. In the summer of 2019 as a 15-year-old, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields, Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, made stretchers, brought patients to and from the operating room, and provided carry-out services after discharge instructions were discussed. After hours at home, I was researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. This led to the formation of several large binders of notes that allowed me to have intellectual conversations with the medical professionals that I have worked with. I have been able to work over consecutive summers as well as winter breaks in college. My goal is to be a role model for those who have come from abuse, a low-income family, or those who are first-generation college students.

I aspire to become an Orthopedic Surgeon as I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. In the summer of 2019 as a 15-year-old, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields, Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, made stretchers, brought patients to and from the operating room, and provided carry-out services after discharge instructions were discussed. After hours at home, I was researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. This led to the formation of several large binders of notes that allowed me to have intellectual conversations with the medical professionals that I have worked with. At Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was highly appreciated and I was valued for the time that I dedicated to enhancing my working experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. Currently, I am a full-time freshman in college. I am the Secretary of the Exercise Science Club and a member of the Pre-Health Club. I have two on-campus jobs, one as a “night host” working from 11:00 pm- 2:00 am weekly by checking residents’ ID’s for security reasons, and I am a tour guide for my university. Over college academic breaks, I work at my hometown hospital as a PCA (Patient Care Assistant), to increase my chances of getting into my top choice medical school. As my dream is to become a doctor as a result of my personal orthopedic experience, it’s much more than me just falling in love with learning anatomy and medical terminology independently as I learned a tremendous amount on my own and from my work experience. It’s from the strong connection I have formed with my former physician. My goal is to actively become a role model while in the pursuit of becoming a doctor and once in practice so that my level of success is seen by younger generations as an inspiration or to anyone who had an injury or suffered from any form of abuse, and/or comes from a low-income family. In addition, I am pushing to enter the medical field in order to be another female entering a masculine profession. While I am in practice, I will forever advocate for my patients more than what they come in the clinic for. I will implement my former physician’s ways of the practice of creating a rapport with my patients, to instill trust and a lasting friendship. My work will be meaningful, not just for me but for my patients, society, and generations to come.

I aspire to become an orthopedic surgeon and to be a role model for those who have been abused in any way and experienced poverty. 14 y.o. I injured my knee, ultimately requiring surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

I aspire to become an Orthopedic Surgeon as I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. In the summer of 2019 as a 15-year-old, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields, Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, made stretchers, brought patients to and from the operating room, and provided carry-out services after discharge instructions were discussed. After hours at home, I was researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. This led to the formation of several large binders of notes that allowed me to have intellectual conversations with the medical professionals that I have worked with. At Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was highly appreciated and I was valued for the time that I dedicated to enhancing my working experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. Currently, I am a full-time freshman in college. I am the Secretary of the Exercise Science Club and a member of the Pre-Health Club. I have two on-campus jobs, one as a “night host” working from 11:00 pm- 2:00 am weekly by checking residents’ ID’s for security reasons, and I am a tour guide for my university. Over college academic breaks, I work at my hometown hospital as a PCA (Patient Care Assistant), to increase my chances of getting into my top choice medical school. As my dream is to become a doctor as a result of my personal orthopedic experience, it’s much more than me just falling in love with learning anatomy and medical terminology independently as I learned a tremendous amount on my own and from my work experience. It’s from the strong connection I have formed with my former physician. My goal is to actively become a role model while in the pursuit of becoming a doctor and once in practice so that my level of success is seen by younger generations as an inspiration or to anyone who had an injury or suffered from any form of abuse, and/or comes from a low-income family. In addition, I am pushing to enter the medical field in order to be another female entering a masculine profession. While I am in practice, I will forever advocate for my patients more than what they come in the clinic for. I will implement my former physician’s ways of the practice of creating a rapport with my patients, to instill trust and a lasting friendship. My work will be meaningful, not just for me but for my patients, society, and generations to come.

I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

I have a learning disability, also known as an Individualized learning program (IEP) also called a 504 plan. I am constantly pushing against my hindrances and other life obstacles as I navigate my pre-med journey as I aspire to become an Orthopedic Surgeon. When 14, I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. In the summer of 2019 as a 15-year-old, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields, Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, made stretchers, brought patients to and from the operating room, and provided carry-out services after discharge instructions were discussed. After hours at home, I was researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. This led to the formation of several large binders of notes that allowed me to have intellectual conversations with the medical professionals that I have worked with. At Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was highly appreciated and I was valued for the time that I dedicated to enhancing my working experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. While volunteering, I still needed to make an income for my household as I come from a severely poor family, generational and cyclical poverty. In the winter months, I worked part-time jobs in order to support my family and my future career goals. Currently, I am a full-time freshman in college. I am the Secretary of the Exercise Science Club and a member of the Pre-Health Club. I have two on-campus jobs, one as a “night host” working from 11:00 pm- 2:00 am weekly by checking residents’ ID’s for security reasons, and I am a tour guide for my university. Over college academic breaks, I work at my hometown hospital as a PCA (Patient Care Assistant), to increase my chances of getting into my top choice medical school. As my dream is to become a doctor as a result of my personal orthopedic experience, it’s much more than me just falling in love with learning anatomy and medical terminology independently as I learned a tremendous amount on my own and from my work experience. It’s from the strong connection I have formed with my former physician. My goal is to actively become a role model while in the pursuit of becoming a doctor and once in practice so that my level of success is seen by younger generations as an inspiration or to anyone who had an injury or suffered from any form of abuse, and/or comes from a low-income family. In addition, I am pushing to enter the medical field in order to be another female entering a masculine profession. While I am in practice, I will forever advocate for my patients more than what they come in the clinic for. I will implement my former physician’s ways of the practice of creating a rapport with my patients, to instill trust and a lasting friendship. My work will be meaningful, not just for me but for my patients, society, and generations to come.

I have a learning disability, also known as an Individualized learning program (IEP) also called a 504 plan. I am constantly pushing against my hindrances and other life obstacles as I navigate my pre-med journey as I aspire to become an Orthopedic Surgeon. When 14, I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. In the summer of 2019 as a 15-year-old, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields, Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, made stretchers, brought patients to and from the operating room, and provided carry-out services after discharge instructions were discussed. After hours at home, I was researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. This led to the formation of several large binders of notes that allowed me to have intellectual conversations with the medical professionals that I have worked with. At Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was highly appreciated and I was valued for the time that I dedicated to enhancing my working experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. While volunteering, I still needed to make an income for my household as I come from a severely poor family, generational and cyclical poverty. In the winter months, I worked part-time jobs in order to support my family and my future career goals. Currently, I am a full-time freshman in college. I am the Secretary of the Exercise Science Club and a member of the Pre-Health Club. I have two on-campus jobs, one as a “night host” working from 11:00 pm- 2:00 am weekly by checking residents’ ID’s for security reasons, and I am a tour guide for my university. Over college academic breaks, I work at my hometown hospital as a PCA (Patient Care Assistant), to increase my chances of getting into my top choice medical school. As my dream is to become a doctor as a result of my personal orthopedic experience, it’s much more than me just falling in love with learning anatomy and medical terminology independently as I learned a tremendous amount on my own and from my work experience. It’s from the strong connection I have formed with my former physician. My goal is to actively become a role model while in the pursuit of becoming a doctor and once in practice so that my level of success is seen by younger generations as an inspiration or to anyone who had an injury or suffered from any form of abuse, and/or comes from a low-income family. In addition, I am pushing to enter the medical field in order to be another female entering a masculine profession. While I am in practice, I will forever advocate for my patients more than what they come in the clinic for. I will implement my former physician’s ways of the practice of creating a rapport with my patients, to instill trust and a lasting friendship. My work will be meaningful, not just for me but for my patients, society, and generations to come.

I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

I aspire to become an Orthopedic Surgeon as I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. In the summer of 2019 as a 15-year-old, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields, Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, made stretchers, brought patients to and from the operating room, and provided carry-out services after discharge instructions were discussed. After hours at home, I was researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. This led to the formation of several large binders of notes that allowed me to have intellectual conversations with the medical professionals that I have worked with. At Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was highly appreciated and I was valued for the time that I dedicated to enhancing my working experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. While volunteering, I still needed to make an income for my household as I come from a severely poor family, generational and cyclical poverty. In the winter months, I worked part-time jobs in order to support my family and my future career goals. Currently, I am a full-time freshman in college. I am the Secretary of the Exercise Science Club and a member of the Pre-Health Club. I have two on-campus jobs, one as a “night host” working from 11:00 pm- 2:00 am weekly by checking residents’ ID’s for security reasons, and I am a tour guide for my university. Over college academic breaks, I work at my hometown hospital as a PCA (Patient Care Assistant), to increase my chances of getting into my top choice medical school. As my dream is to become a doctor as a result of my personal orthopedic experience, it’s much more than me just falling in love with learning anatomy and medical terminology independently as I learned a tremendous amount on my own and from my work experience. It’s from the strong connection I have formed with my former physician. My goal is to actively become a role model while in the pursuit of becoming a doctor and once in practice so that my level of success is seen by younger generations as an inspiration or to anyone who had an injury or suffered from any form of abuse, and/or comes from a low-income family. In addition, I am pushing to enter the medical field in order to be another female entering a masculine profession. While I am in practice, I will forever advocate for my patients more than what they come in the clinic for. I will implement my former physician’s ways of the practice of creating a rapport with my patients, to instill trust and a lasting friendship. My work will be meaningful, not just for me but for my patients, society, and generations to come.

I aspire to become an Orthopedic Surgeon as I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. In the summer of 2019 as a 15-year-old, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields, Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, made stretchers, brought patients to and from the operating room, and provided carry-out services after discharge instructions were discussed. After hours at home, I was researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. This led to the formation of several large binders of notes that allowed me to have intellectual conversations with the medical professionals that I have worked with. At Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was highly appreciated and I was valued for the time that I dedicated to enhancing my working experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. While volunteering, I still needed to make an income for my household as I come from a severely poor family, generational and cyclical poverty. In the winter months, I worked part-time jobs in order to support my family and my future career goals. Currently, I am a full-time freshman in college. I am the Secretary of the Exercise Science Club and a member of the Pre-Health Club. I have two on-campus jobs, one as a “night host” working from 11:00 pm- 2:00 am weekly by checking residents’ ID’s for security reasons, and I am a tour guide for my university. Over college academic breaks, I work at my hometown hospital as a PCA (Patient Care Assistant), to increase my chances of getting into my top choice medical school. As my dream is to become a doctor as a result of my personal orthopedic experience, it’s much more than me just falling in love with learning anatomy and medical terminology independently as I learned a tremendous amount on my own and from my work experience. It’s from the strong connection I have formed with my former physician. My goal is to actively become a role model while in the pursuit of becoming a doctor and once in practice so that my level of success is seen by younger generations as an inspiration or to anyone who had an injury or suffered from any form of abuse, and/or comes from a low-income family. In addition, I am pushing to enter the medical field in order to be another female entering a masculine profession. While I am in practice, I will forever advocate for my patients more than what they come in the clinic for. I will implement my former physician’s ways of the practice of creating a rapport with my patients, to instill trust and a lasting friendship. My work will be meaningful, not just for me but for my patients, society, and generations to come.

I aspire to become an Orthopedic Surgeon as I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. In the summer of 2019 as a 15-year-old, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields, Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, made stretchers, brought patients to and from the operating room, and provided carry-out services after discharge instructions were discussed. After hours at home, I was researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. This led to the formation of several large binders of notes that allowed me to have intellectual conversations with the medical professionals that I have worked with. At Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was highly appreciated and I was valued for the time that I dedicated to enhancing my working experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. While volunteering, I still needed to make an income for my household as I come from a severely poor family, generational and cyclical poverty. In the winter months, I worked part-time jobs in order to support my family and my future career goals. Currently, I am a full-time freshman in college. I am the Secretary of the Exercise Science Club and a member of the Pre-Health Club. I have two on-campus jobs, one as a “night host” working from 11:00 pm- 2:00 am weekly by checking residents’ ID’s for security reasons, and I am a tour guide for my university. Over college academic breaks, I work at my hometown hospital as a PCA (Patient Care Assistant), to increase my chances of getting into my top choice medical school. As my dream is to become a doctor as a result of my personal orthopedic experience, it’s much more than me just falling in love with learning anatomy and medical terminology independently as I learned a tremendous amount on my own and from my work experience. It’s from the strong connection I have formed with my former physician. My goal is to actively become a role model while in the pursuit of becoming a doctor and once in practice so that my level of success is seen by younger generations as an inspiration or to anyone who had an injury or suffered from any form of abuse, and/or comes from a low-income family. In addition, I am pushing to enter the medical field in order to be another female entering a masculine profession. While I am in practice, I will forever advocate for my patients more than what they come in the clinic for. I will implement my former physician’s ways of the practice of creating a rapport with my patients, to instill trust and a lasting friendship. My work will be meaningful, not just for me but for my patients, society, and generations to come.

I have a learning disability, also known as an Individualized learning program (IEP) also called a 504 plan. I am constantly pushing against my hindrances and other life obstacles as I navigate my pre-med journey I aspire to become an Orthopedic Surgeon. When 14, I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. In the summer of 2019 as a 15-year-old, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields, Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, made stretchers, brought patients to and from the operating room, and provided carry-out services after discharge instructions were discussed. After hours at home, I was researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. This led to the formation of several large binders of notes that allowed me to have intellectual conversations with the medical professionals that I have worked with. At Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was highly appreciated and I was valued for the time that I dedicated to enhancing my working experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. While volunteering, I still needed to make an income for my household as I come from a severely poor family, generational and cyclical poverty. In the winter months, I worked part-time jobs in order to support my family and my future career goals. Currently, I am a full-time freshman in college. I am the Secretary of the Exercise Science Club and a member of the Pre-Health Club. I have two on-campus jobs, one as a “night host” working from 11:00 pm- 2:00 am weekly by checking residents’ ID’s for security reasons, and I am a tour guide for my university. Over college academic breaks, I work at my hometown hospital as a PCA (Patient Care Assistant), to increase my chances of getting into my top choice medical school. As my dream is to become a doctor as a result of my personal orthopedic experience, it’s much more than me just falling in love with learning anatomy and medical terminology independently as I learned a tremendous amount on my own and from my work experience. It’s from the strong connection I have formed with my former physician. My goal is to actively become a role model while in the pursuit of becoming a doctor and once in practice so that my level of success is seen by younger generations as an inspiration or to anyone who had an injury or suffered from any form of abuse, and/or comes from a low-income family. In addition, I am pushing to enter the medical field in order to be another female entering a masculine profession. While I am in practice, I will forever advocate for my patients more than what they come in the clinic for. I will implement my former physician’s ways of the practice of creating a rapport with my patients, to instill trust and a lasting friendship. My work will be meaningful, not just for me but for my patients, society, and generations to come.

I aspire to become an Orthopedic Surgeon as I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. In the summer of 2019 as a 15-year-old, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields, Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, made stretchers, brought patients to and from the operating room, and provided carry-out services after discharge instructions were discussed. After hours at home, I was researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. This led to the formation of several large binders of notes that allowed me to have intellectual conversations with the medical professionals that I have worked with. At Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was highly appreciated and I was valued for the time that I dedicated to enhancing my working experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. While volunteering, I still needed to make an income for my household as I come from a severely poor family, generational and cyclical poverty. In the winter months, I worked part-time jobs in order to support my family and my future career goals. Currently, I am a full-time freshman in college. I am the Secretary of the Exercise Science Club and a member of the Pre-Health Club. I have two on-campus jobs, one as a “night host” working from 11:00 pm- 2:00 am weekly by checking residents’ ID’s for security reasons, and I am a tour guide for my university. Over college academic breaks, I work at my hometown hospital as a PCA (Patient Care Assistant), to increase my chances of getting into my top choice medical school. As my dream is to become a doctor as a result of my personal orthopedic experience, it’s much more than me just falling in love with learning anatomy and medical terminology independently as I learned a tremendous amount on my own and from my work experience. It’s from the strong connection I have formed with my former physician. My goal is to actively become a role model while in the pursuit of becoming a doctor and once in practice so that my level of success is seen by younger generations as an inspiration or to anyone who had an injury or suffered from any form of abuse, and/or comes from a low-income family. In addition, I am pushing to enter the medical field in order to be another female entering a masculine profession. While I am in practice, I will forever advocate for my patients more than what they come in the clinic for. I will implement my former physician’s ways of the practice of creating a rapport with my patients, to instill trust and a lasting friendship. My work will be meaningful, not just for me but for my patients, society, and generations to come.

I aspire to become an Orthopedic Surgeon as I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. In the summer of 2019 as a 15-year-old, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields, Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, made stretchers, brought patients to and from the operating room, and provided carry-out services after discharge instructions were discussed. After hours at home, I was researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. This led to the formation of several large binders of notes that allowed me to have intellectual conversations with the medical professionals that I have worked with. At Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was highly appreciated and I was valued for the time that I dedicated to enhancing my working experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. While volunteering, I still needed to make an income for my household as I come from a severely poor family, generational and cyclical poverty. In the winter months, I worked part-time jobs in order to support my family and my future career goals. Currently, I am a full-time freshman in college. I am the Secretary of the Exercise Science Club and a member of the Pre-Health Club. I have two on-campus jobs, one as a “night host” working from 11:00 pm- 2:00 am weekly by checking residents’ ID’s for security reasons, and I am a tour guide for my university. Over college academic breaks, I work at my hometown hospital as a PCA (Patient Care Assistant), to increase my chances of getting into my top choice medical school. As my dream is to become a doctor as a result of my personal orthopedic experience, it’s much more than me just falling in love with learning anatomy and medical terminology independently as I learned a tremendous amount on my own and from my work experience. It’s from the strong connection I have formed with my former physician. My goal is to actively become a role model while in the pursuit of becoming a doctor and once in practice so that my level of success is seen by younger generations as an inspiration or to anyone who had an injury or suffered from any form of abuse, and/or comes from a low-income family. In addition, I am pushing to enter the medical field in order to be another female entering a masculine profession. While I am in practice, I will forever advocate for my patients more than what they come in the clinic for. I will implement my former physician’s ways of the practice of creating a rapport with my patients, to instill trust and a lasting friendship. My work will be meaningful, not just for me but for my patients, society, and generations to come.

I aspire to become an Orthopedic Surgeon as I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. In the summer of 2019 as a 15-year-old, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields, Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, made stretchers, brought patients to and from the operating room, and provided carry-out services after discharge instructions were discussed. After hours at home, I was researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. This led to the formation of several large binders of notes that allowed me to have intellectual conversations with the medical professionals that I have worked with. At Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was highly appreciated and I was valued for the time that I dedicated to enhancing my working experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. While volunteering, I still needed to make an income for my household as I come from a severely poor family, generational and cyclical poverty. In the winter months, I worked part-time jobs in order to support my family and my future career goals. Currently, I am a full-time freshman in college. I am the Secretary of the Exercise Science Club and a member of the Pre-Health Club. I have two on-campus jobs, one as a “night host” working from 11:00 pm- 2:00 am weekly by checking residents’ ID’s for security reasons, and I am a tour guide for my university. Over college academic breaks, I work at my hometown hospital as a PCA (Patient Care Assistant), to increase my chances of getting into my top choice medical school. As my dream is to become a doctor as a result of my personal orthopedic experience, it’s much more than me just falling in love with learning anatomy and medical terminology independently as I learned a tremendous amount on my own and from my work experience. It’s from the strong connection I have formed with my former physician. My goal is to actively become a role model while in the pursuit of becoming a doctor and once in practice so that my level of success is seen by younger generations as an inspiration or to anyone who had an injury or suffered from any form of abuse, and/or comes from a low-income family. In addition, I am pushing to enter the medical field in order to be another female entering a masculine profession. While I am in practice, I will forever advocate for my patients more than what they come in the clinic for. I will implement my former physician’s ways of the practice of creating a rapport with my patients, to instill trust and a lasting friendship. My work will be meaningful, not just for me but for my patients, society, and generations to come.

One thing that I love about myself is my empathy for others and the incredible resilience and drive that have in order to make my voice and others heard. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

One thing that I love about myself is my empathy for others and the incredible resilience and drive that have in order to make my voice and others heard. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

The meaning of life is unconditional love, no matter where you find it or whom you find it in. Love truly does conquer all. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

One thing that I love about myself is my empathy for others and the incredible resilience and drive that have in order to make my voice and others heard. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

I stay true to myself as I stand up for what I believe in each and every day. I fight for voices to be heard. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

I stay true to myself as I stand up for what I believe in each and every day. I fight for voices to be heard. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

I stay true to myself as I stand up for what I believe in each and every day. I fight for voices to be heard. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

I stay true to myself as I stand up for what I believe in each and every day. I fight for voices to be heard. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

I stay true to myself as I stand up for what I believe in each and every day. I fight for voices to be heard. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

I stay true to myself as I stand up for what I believe in each and every day. I fight for voices to be heard. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

My best skill is learning medicine as I have successfully been working in the medical field and studying medicine independently since I was 15 years old. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

One sentence that I would share with the world is, "Someone out there equates to the pain and suffering you are going through right now, simply you are nowhere near alone as much as you think you are". I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

Never take a personal loan.

I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

I aspire to become an Orthopedic Surgeon as I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. In the summer of 2019 as a 15-year-old, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields, Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, made stretchers, brought patients to and from the operating room, and provided carry-out services after discharge instructions were discussed. After hours at home, I was researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. This led to the formation of several large binders of notes that allowed me to have intellectual conversations with the medical professionals that I have worked with. At Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was highly appreciated and I was valued for the time that I dedicated to enhancing my working experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. While volunteering, I still needed to make an income for my household as I come from a severely poor family, generational and cyclical poverty. In the winter months, I worked at TJ Maxx (2019) and also played Varsity Volleyball as I was cleared from my medical. I was able to do this while maintaining high grades and having a class rank of 11 out of 106 students in my grade. I was pleased to be inducted into my school’s National Honor Society that year. I was still able to balance my volunteer work at the hospital and hold multiple minimum wage jobs in order to support my family and my future career goals. Currently, I am a full-time freshman in college. I am the Secretary of the Exercise Science Club and a member of the Pre-Health Club. I have two on-campus jobs, one as a “night host” working from 11:00 pm- 2:00 am weekly by checking residents’ ID’s for security reasons, and I am a tour guide for my university. Over college academic breaks, I work at my hometown hospital as a PCA (Patient Care Assistant), to increase my chances of getting into my top choice medical school. As my dream is to become a doctor as a result of my personal orthopedic experience, it’s much more than me just falling in love with learning anatomy and medical terminology independently as I learned a tremendous amount on my own and from my work experience. It’s from the strong connection I have formed with my former physician. My goal is to actively become a role model while in the pursuit of becoming a doctor and once in practice so that my level of success is seen by younger generations as an inspiration or to anyone who had an injury or suffered from any form of abuse, and/or comes from a low-income family. In addition, I am pushing to enter the medical field in order to be another female entering a masculine profession. While I am in practice, I will forever advocate for my patients more than what they come in the clinic for. I will implement my former physician’s ways of the practice of creating a rapport with my patients, to instill trust and a lasting friendship. My work will be meaningful, not just for me but for my patients, society, and generations to come.

I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams! At 15 years old, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assisted in discharge and carry out services. I have been able to return in 2021 -2022. At nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a doctor many years later, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter.

I look up to my former physician for being there for me when no one else was. As a freshman in high school at my last softball game, I injured my knee. I was brought to the emergency room but told that I needed to see the Bone and Joint Clinic up the road. There, I met my physician and was informed that I have torn my Anterior Cruciate ligament (ACL) and that surgery is required. I was also notified that recovery lasts about a year. Throughout the two years of my rehabilitation, my doctor and I become very close as I have independently dedicated my time to research the anatomical structures of the knee and learn more information regarding my condition. Doing this allowed me to have thoughtful conversations with my physician before and after surgery. My surgeon and I were on the same page and understood each other's terminology phenomenally which I really enjoyed for my age. For me to understand such words and definitions and use them appropriately in a question or response was very rewarding. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. When I got off my medical in the summer of 2019, I decided to give back to my hospital for the care that I have received when I was a patient. As a 15-year-old, I worked at Columbia Memorial Hospital where I rotated through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and General Surgery. I was also given the opportunity to watch my former Orthopedic surgeon for a week and even over winter break from school in the operating room. While working I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, made stretchers, brought patients to and from the operating room, and provided carry-out services after discharge instructions were discussed. The reason for me giving back in the past and the near future before I go to college is because my orthopedic surgeon treated me more than I could have ever asked for. For him being there in a critical time in my life as I managed surgical rehabilitation at a young age as well as filling a hole in my life, has deeply inspired me to carry on his legacy of being a wholehearted practicing physician. I look up to my former surgeon as my own father figure. For Columbia Memorial Hospital and its connected clinics, I would give back in any way that I can. My dream is to become an orthopedic surgeon myself from my ACL experience. It’s not just falling in love with learning anatomy independently as I learned a tremendous amount of medical terminology and from my work experience, but of the strong connection I have formed with my physician. My goal is to actively become a role model while in the pursuit of becoming a doctor and once in practice so that my level of success is seen by younger generations as an inspiration or to anyone who had an injury or suffered from any form of abuse, and/or comes from a low-income family- for first-generation college students.

I look up to my former physician for being there for me when no one else was. As a freshman in high school at my last softball game, I injured my knee. I was brought to the emergency room but told that I needed to see the Bone and Joint Clinic up the road. There, I met my physician and was informed that I have torn my Anterior Cruciate ligament (ACL) and that surgery is required. I was also notified that recovery lasts about a year. Throughout the two years of my rehabilitation, my doctor and I become very close as I have independently dedicated my time to research the anatomical structures of the knee and learn more information regarding my condition. Doing this allowed me to have thoughtful conversations with my physician before and after surgery. My surgeon and I were on the same page and understood each other's terminology phenomenally which I really enjoyed for my age. For me to understand such words and definitions and use them appropriately in a question or response was very rewarding. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. When I got off my medical in the summer of 2019, I decided to give back to my hospital for the care that I have received when I was a patient. As a 15-year-old, I worked at Columbia Memorial Hospital where I rotated through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and General Surgery. I was also given the opportunity to watch my former Orthopedic surgeon for a week and even over winter break from school in the operating room. While working I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, made stretchers, brought patients to and from the operating room, and provided carry-out services after discharge instructions were discussed. The reason for me giving back in the past and the near future before I go to college is because my orthopedic surgeon treated me more than I could have ever asked for. For him being there in a critical time in my life as I managed surgical rehabilitation at a young age as well as filling a hole in my life, has deeply inspired me to carry on his legacy of being a wholehearted practicing physician. I look up to my former surgeon as my own father figure. For Columbia Memorial Hospital and its connected clinics, I would give back in any way that I can. My dream is to become an orthopedic surgeon myself from my ACL experience. It’s not just falling in love with learning anatomy independently as I learned a tremendous amount of medical terminology and from my work experience, but of the strong connection I have formed with my physician. My goal is to actively become a role model while in the pursuit of becoming a doctor and once in practice so that my level of success is seen by younger generations as an inspiration or to anyone who had an injury or suffered from any form of abuse, and/or comes from a low-income family- for first-generation college students.

Meeting my former orthopedic surgeon. I remember hearing the knock on the door, and when I meet my physician, I knew 100% we were going to be close. I felt I knew this physician for 1,000 years even though we just met. This doctor did not just treat me as a diagnosis but as a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to enter the medical field.

No words could ever express how truly grateful I am to have such a person in my life, to guide me in a direction that means more than I could have ever dreamed of. "My everything" is my former orthopedic surgeon. As a freshman in high school, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Throughout my recovery, I was more than moved by my doctors' bedside manners and was blown away by how sweet and gentle he has been with me. This doctor did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather, a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients that they matter. The amount of unconditional love and support that I have received from my surgeon is truly something that I will forever hold onto. I look up to my former physician as my very own father figure, to have met a person who has brought me so much closure and guidance, I couldn't ask for anything better. I am pushing to enter the medical field to listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am wanting to be a role model for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse or for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams.

At the age of 15, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and General Surgery. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, helped gown patients, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assist in discharge and carry out services. After hours at home, I was putting together my own medical textbooks by researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. 2021, I have been volunteering at my local Bone and Joint Center. The reason behind my volunteer work is that I am carrying, the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. Throughout childhood, I did not live in a safe household as I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Several years later, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a friend. Having a doctor many years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me throughout this period in my life, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up.

"No patient shall ever feel inferior to a physician, but as if they are friends". This quote has a very deep meaning to me. To me, this means that a patient should not fear medical help when needed. When something is off, you should seek medical advice quickly and not avoiding to do so out of fear of ​being judged by medical personal. This to me also means that if you have any questions regarding your diagnosis, speak up and ask questions! "No patient shall ever feel inferior to a physician, but as if they are friends" means more than anything else. Growing up, I did not live in a safe household as I was sexually abused by my father when I was nine years old which lead to his incarceration. Several years later I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a friend. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. At the age of 15, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields: Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and General Surgery. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, helped gown patients, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assist in discharge and carry out services. After hours at home, I was putting together my own medical textbooks by researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. All of the information learned has resulted in multiple large binders which have led me to have very deep, yet intellectual conversations with the medical professionals and patients that I have interacted with. While working at Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated and I was valued for my time that I dedicated to better enhance my experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse or for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. My goal is to be a role model for anyone who does not think it is possible to battle through adversity, for those coming from low-income families and or first-generation college students. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams!

"No patient shall ever feel inferior to a physician, but as if they are friends". This quote has a very deep meaning to me. To me, this means that a patient should not fear medical help when needed. When something is off, you should seek medical advice quickly and not avoiding to do so out of fear of ​being judged by medical personal. This to me also means that if you have any questions regarding your diagnosis, speak up and ask questions! "No patient shall ever feel inferior to a physician, but as if they are friends" means more than anything else. Growing up, I did not live in a safe household as I was sexually abused by my father when I was nine years old which lead to his incarceration. Several years later I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a friend. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. At the age of 15, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields: Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and General Surgery. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, helped gown patients, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assist in discharge and carry out services. After hours at home, I was putting together my own medical textbooks by researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. All of the information learned has resulted in multiple large binders which have led me to have very deep, yet intellectual conversations with the medical professionals and patients that I have interacted with. While working at Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated and I was valued for my time that I dedicated to better enhance my experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse or for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. My goal is to be a role model for anyone who does not think it is possible to battle through adversity, for those coming from low-income families and or first-generation college students. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams!

"No patient shall ever feel inferior to a physician, but as if they are friends". This quote has a very deep meaning to me. To me, this means that a patient should not fear medical help when needed. When something is off, you should seek medical advice quickly and not avoiding to do so out of fear of ​being judged by medical personal. This to me also means that if you have any questions regarding your diagnosis, speak up and ask questions! "No patient shall ever feel inferior to a physician, but as if they are friends" means more than anything else. Growing up, I did not live in a safe household as I was sexually abused by my father when I was nine years old which lead to his incarceration. Several years later I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a friend. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. At the age of 15, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields: Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and General Surgery. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, helped gown patients, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assist in discharge and carry out services. After hours at home, I was putting together my own medical textbooks by researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. All of the information learned has resulted in multiple large binders which have led me to have very deep, yet intellectual conversations with the medical professionals and patients that I have interacted with. While working at Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated and I was valued for my time that I dedicated to better enhance my experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse or for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. My goal is to be a role model for anyone who does not think it is possible to battle through adversity, for those coming from low-income families and or first-generation college students. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams!

"No patient shall ever feel inferior to a physician, but as if they are friends". This quote has a very deep meaning to me. To me, this means that a patient should not fear medical help when needed. When something is off, you should seek medical advice quickly and not avoiding to do so out of fear of ​being judged by medical personal. This to me also means that if you have any questions regarding your diagnosis, speak up and ask questions! "No patient shall ever feel inferior to a physician, but as if they are friends" means more than anything else. Growing up, I did not live in a safe household as I was sexually abused by my father when I was nine years old which lead to his incarceration. Several years later I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a friend. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. At the age of 15, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields: Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and General Surgery. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, helped gown patients, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assist in discharge and carry out services. After hours at home, I was putting together my own medical textbooks by researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. All of the information learned has resulted in multiple large binders which have led me to have very deep, yet intellectual conversations with the medical professionals and patients that I have interacted with. While working at Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated and I was valued for my time that I dedicated to better enhance my experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse or for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. My goal is to be a role model for anyone who does not think it is possible to battle through adversity, for those coming from low-income families and or first-generation college students. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams!

"No patient shall ever feel inferior to a physician, but as if they are friends". This quote has a very deep meaning to me. To me, this means that a patient should not fear medical help when needed. When something is off, you should seek medical advice quickly and not avoiding to do so out of fear of ​being judged by medical personal. This to me also means that if you have any questions regarding your diagnosis, speak up and ask questions! "No patient shall ever feel inferior to a physician, but as if they are friends" means more than anything else. Growing up, I did not live in a safe household as I was sexually abused by my father when I was nine years old which lead to his incarceration. Several years later I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a friend. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. At the age of 15, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields: Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and General Surgery. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, helped gown patients, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assist in discharge and carry out services. After hours at home, I was putting together my own medical textbooks by researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. All of the information learned has resulted in multiple large binders which have led me to have very deep, yet intellectual conversations with the medical professionals and patients that I have interacted with. While working at Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated and I was valued for my time that I dedicated to better enhance my experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse or for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. My goal is to be a role model for anyone who does not think it is possible to battle through adversity, for those coming from low-income families and or first-generation college students. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams!

I look up to my former physician for being there for me when no one else was. As a freshman in high school at my last softball game, I injured my knee. I was brought to the emergency room but told that I needed to see the Bone and Joint Clinic up the road. There, I met my physician and was informed that I have torn my Anterior Cruciate ligament (ACL) and that surgery is required. I was also notified that recovery lasts about a year. Throughout the two years of my rehabilitation, my doctor and I become very close as I have independently dedicated my time to research the anatomical structures of the knee and learn more information regarding my condition. Doing this allowed me to have thoughtful conversations with my physician before and after surgery. My surgeon and I were on the same page and understood each other's terminology phenomenally which I really enjoyed for my age. For me to understand such words and definitions and use them appropriately in a question or response was very rewarding. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. When I got off my medical in the summer of 2019, I decided to give back to my hospital for the care that I have received when I was a patient. As a 15-year-old, I worked at Columbia Memorial Hospital where I rotated through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and General Surgery. I was also given the opportunity to watch my former Orthopedic surgeon for a week and even over winter break from school in the operating room. While working I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, made stretchers, brought patients to and from the operating room, and provided carry-out services after discharge instructions were discussed. After hours at home, I was researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. This led to the formation of several large binders of notes that allowed me to have intellectual conversations with the medical personal and patients that I have encountered. At Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was highly appreciated and I was valued for the time that I dedicated to enhancing my working experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. In the summer of 2020, I was not able to volunteer at the hospital because of the pandemic and my age. This summer 2021 though, I was approved to work at the Columbia Memorial Bone and Joint Center, the clinic I went to before and after surgery. The reason for me giving back in the past and the near future before I go to college is because my orthopedic surgeon treated me more than I could have ever asked for. For him being there in a critical time in my life as I managed surgical rehabilitation at a young age as well as filling a hole in my life, has deeply inspired me to carry on his legacy of being a wholehearted practicing physician. I look up to my former surgeon as my own father figure. For Columbia Memorial Hospital and its connected clinics, I would give back in any way that I can. My dream is to become an orthopedic surgeon myself from my ACL experience. It’s not just falling in love with learning anatomy independently as I learned a tremendous amount of medical terminology and from my work experience, but of the strong connection I have formed with my physician. My goal is to actively become a role model while in the pursuit of becoming a doctor and once in practice so that my level of success is seen by younger generations as an inspiration or to anyone who had an injury or suffered from any form of abuse, and/or comes from a low-income family- for first-generation college students. In addition, I am pushing to enter the medical field to be a role model for women trying to enter a masculine profession. While I am in practice, I will forever advocate for my patients more than what they come in the clinic for. I will implement my former physician’s ways of the practice of creating a rapport with my patients, to instill trust and a lasting friendship. My work will be meaningful, not just for me but for my patients, society, and generations to come.

At the age of 15, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, helped gown patients, bring patients to and from the operating room, and assist in discharge and carry out services. Some of the operations I have seen are endoscopies, colonoscopies, gall bladder removals, hernia repairs, total joint replacements, and orthopedic elective cases. When working, I did not just shadow, after hours at home, I was putting together my own medical textbooks by researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. All of this information has resulted in the formation of four large binders which has led me to have very deep, yet intellectual conversations with the doctors, nurses, and patients that I have encountered. While working at Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated and I was valued for the time that I dedicated to better enhance my experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. The reason for me giving back in the past and by me dedicating my entire life to such a profession is because my former orthopedic surgeon treated me more than I could have ever asked for when I was his patient. I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Younger I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician many years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. For him being there in a critical time in my life as I managed surgical rehabilitation at a young age as well as filling a hole in my life, has deeply inspired me to carry on his legacy of being a wholehearted practicing physician. I look up to my former surgeon as my own father figure. For me, I would give back in any way that I can in order to continue the gift of giving quality care. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. My goal is to be a role model for anyone who does not think it is possible to battle through adversity, for those coming from low-income families and or first-generation college students. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams!

Growing up I did not live in a safe household as I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. This caused my family to enter severe poverty as my father was the only source of income. I have firsthand witnessed the struggles of my mother going to work each day, just to provide for me and my twin. I have also seen my mother lose many minimum wage jobs to then collect unemployment insurance. This time in our lives was the most challenging and frightening as we had no money for basic necessities and did not know how we would make it through. I could never go through what she has. Seeing the everyday struggles of my mother and having those afflictions impact me is something I could not ever let my own children experience or any other child. Several years later as a freshman in high school, at my last softball game, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a physician many years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. At the age of 15, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, helped gown patients, bring patients to and from the operating room, and assist in discharge and carry out services. Some of the operations I have seen are endoscopies, colonoscopies, gall bladder removals, hernia repairs, total joint replacements, and orthopedic elective cases. When working, I did not just shadow, after hours at home, I was putting together my own medical textbooks by researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. My goal is to be a role model for anyone who does not think it is possible to battle through adversity, for those coming from low-income families and or first-generation college students. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams!

Growing up I did not live in a safe household as I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. This caused my family to enter severe poverty as my father was the only source of income. I have firsthand witnessed the struggles of my mother going to work each day, just to provide for me and my twin. I have also seen my mother lose many minimum wage jobs to then collect unemployment insurance. This time in our lives was the most challenging and frightening as we had no money for basic necessities and did not know how we would make it through. I could never go through what she has. Seeing the everyday struggles of my mother and having those afflictions impact me is something I could not ever let my own children experience or any other child. Several years later as a freshman in high school, at my last softball game, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a physician many years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. At the age of 15, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, helped gown patients, bring patients to and from the operating room, and assist in discharge and carry out services. Some of the operations I have seen are endoscopies, colonoscopies, gall bladder removals, hernia repairs, total joint replacements, and orthopedic elective cases. When working, I did not just shadow, after hours at home, I was putting together my own medical textbooks by researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. All of this information has resulted in the formation of four large binders which has led me to have very deep, yet intellectual conversations with the doctors, nurses, and patients that I have encountered. While working at Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated and I was valued for the time that I dedicated to better enhance my experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. The reason for me giving back in the past and by me dedicating my entire life to such a profession is because my former orthopedic surgeon treated me more than I could have ever asked for. For him being there in a critical time in my life as I managed surgical rehabilitation at a young age as well as filling a hole in my life, has deeply inspired me to carry on his legacy of being a wholehearted practicing physician. I look up to my former surgeon as my own father figure. For me, I would give back in any way that I can in order to continue the gift of giving quality care. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. My goal is to be a role model for anyone who does not think it is possible to battle through adversity, for those coming from low-income families and or first-generation college students. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams!

Growing up I did not live in a safe household as I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. This caused my family to enter severe poverty as my father was the only source of income. I have firsthand witnessed the struggles of my mother going to work each day, just to provide for me and my twin. I have also seen my mother lose many minimum wage jobs to then collect unemployment insurance. This time in our lives was the most challenging and frightening as we had no money for basic necessities and did not know how we would make it through. I could never go through what she has. Seeing the everyday struggles of my mother and having those afflictions impact me is something I could not ever let my own children experience or any other child. Several years later as a freshman in high school, at my last softball game, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a physician many years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. At the age of 15, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, helped gown patients, bring patients to and from the operating room, and assist in discharge and carry out services. Some of the operations I have seen are endoscopies, colonoscopies, gall bladder removals, hernia repairs, total joint replacements, and orthopedic elective cases. When working, I did not just shadow, after hours at home, I was putting together my own medical textbooks by researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. All of this information has resulted in the formation of four large binders which has led me to have very deep, yet intellectual conversations with the doctors, nurses, and patients that I have encountered. While working at Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated and I was valued for the time that I dedicated to better enhance my experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. My goal is to be a role model for anyone who does not think it is possible to battle through adversity, for those coming from low-income families and or first-generation college students. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams!

Growing up I did not live in a safe household as I was sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. This caused my family to enter severe poverty as my father was the only source of income. I have firsthand witnessed the struggles of my mother going to work each day, just to provide for me and my twin. I have also seen my mother lose many minimum wage jobs to then collect unemployment insurance. This time in our lives was the most challenging and frightening as we had no money for basic necessities and did not know how we would make it through. I could never go through what she has. Seeing the everyday struggles of my mother and having those afflictions impact me is something I could not ever let my own children experience or any other child. Several years later as a freshman in high school, at my last softball game, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but rather as a friend. Having a physician many years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. At the age of 15, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, helped gown patients, bring patients to and from the operating room, and assist in discharge and carry out services. Some of the operations I have seen are endoscopies, colonoscopies, gall bladder removals, hernia repairs, total joint replacements, and orthopedic elective cases. When working, I did not just shadow, after hours at home, I was putting together my own medical textbooks by researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. All of this information has resulted in the formation of four large binders which has led me to have very deep, yet intellectual conversations with the doctors, nurses, and patients that I have encountered. While working at Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated and I was valued for the time that I dedicated to better enhance my experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. The reason for me giving back in the past and by me dedicating my entire life to such a profession is because my former orthopedic surgeon treated me more than I could have ever asked for. For him being there in a critical time in my life as I managed surgical rehabilitation at a young age as well as filling a hole in my life, has deeply inspired me to carry on his legacy of being a wholehearted practicing physician. I look up to my former surgeon as my own father figure. For me, I would give back in any way that I can in order to continue the gift of giving quality care. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse and for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. My goal is to be a role model for anyone who does not think it is possible to battle through adversity, for those coming from low-income families and or first-generation college students. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams!

"No patient shall ever feel inferior to a physician, but as if they are friends". This quote has a very deep meaning to me. To me, this means that a patient should not fear medical help when needed. When something is off, you should seek medical advice quickly and not avoiding to do so out of fear of ​being judged by medical personal. This to me also means that if you have any questions regarding your diagnosis, speak up and ask questions! "No patient shall ever feel inferior to a physician, but as if they are friends" means more than anything else. Growing up, I did not grow up in a safe household as I was sexually abused by my father when I was nine years old which lead to his incarceration. Several years later I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a friend. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. At the age of 15, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields: Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and General Surgery. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, helped gown patients, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assist in discharge and carry out services. After hours at home, I was putting together my own medical textbooks by researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. All of the information learned has resulted in multiple large binders which have led me to have very deep, yet intellectual conversations with the medical professionals and patients that I have interacted with. While working at Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated and I was valued for the time that I dedicated to better enhance my experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse or for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. My goal is to be a role model for anyone who does not think it is possible to battle through adversity, for those coming from low-income families and or first-generation college students. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams!

I come from a low-income family as neither of my parents has pursued higher education. I know how important education from learning and witnessing what a lack of education can do to somebody. I have dedicated all my time to acquire as much knowledge as possible throughout my childhood and especially in my teen years. In my case, higher education is the only way out. Battling my childhood hardships of being a victim of abuse, living in poverty, and undergoing knee surgery has all strengthened me in many aspects of my life. Both of my parents landed jobs after high school, did not apply to college. I first-hand witnessed the effects of how this decision impacted them, wondering if they could have done anything different to become a better version of themselves. I have seen the pain and heaviness they carry as I watch them labor away at work that does not enlighten their soul, just to come home to a hot meal. Seeing both my parents dread going to work in the morning then, witnessing their divorce has led me to support myself. Coming from a single-parent family in which my mother works a minimum wage job. My father is incarcerated and we receive no child support. My mother’s earnings are barely enough to even keep us alive, therefore we get assistance from New York State. My mother is enrolled in Government Assistance in the form of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the Heat and Energy Program (HEAP) and has been for many years. As a freshman in high school, I injured my knee which required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients that they matter. In the summer of 2019 as a 15-year-old, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields, Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, made stretchers, brought patients to and from the operating room, and provided carry-out services after discharge instructions were discussed. After hours at home, I was researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. This led to the formation of several large binders of notes that allowed me to have intellectual conversations with the doctors, nurses, and patients that I have worked with. At Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was highly appreciated and I was valued for my time that I dedicated to enhancing my working experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. I have poured so much energy into my education so that I won’t have to face the constant struggles I have firsthand witnessed my parents face. I believe I have earned my higher education through many hardships of my abuse, my income level, academic performance, and my volunteer work at my local hospital. I have tirelessly fought to better myself so that one day I can share my story and actively be a role model for my children, younger cousins, or any other, that has gone through similar hardships. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse or for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. My goal is to be a role model for anyone who does not think it is possible to battle through adversity, for those coming from low-income families and or first-generation college students. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams!

"No patient shall ever feel inferior to a physician, but as if they are friends". This quote has a very deep meaning to me. To me, this means that a patient should not fear medical help when needed. When something is off, you should seek medical advice quickly and not avoiding to do so out of fear of ​being judged by medical personal. This to me also means that if you have any questions regarding your diagnosis, speak up and ask questions! "No patient shall ever feel inferior to a physician, but as if they are friends" means more than anything else. Growing up, I did not grow up in a safe household as I was sexually abused by my father when I was nine years old which lead to his incarceration. Several years later I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a friend. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. At the age of 15, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields: Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and General Surgery. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, helped gown patients, brought patients to and from the operating room, and assist in discharge and carry out services. After hours at home, I was putting together my own medical textbooks by researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. All of the information learned has resulted in multiple large binders which have led me to have very deep, yet intellectual conversations with the medical professionals and patients that I have interacted with. While working at Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated and I was valued for my time that I dedicated to better enhance my experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse or for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. My goal is to be a role model for anyone who does not think it is possible to battle through adversity, for those coming from low-income families and or first-generation college students. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams!

I aspire to be a role model for others who have been a victim of any form of abuse while in the pursuit of becoming a surgeon. Growing up, I did not grow up in a safe household as I was sexually abused by my father when I was nine years old which lead to his incarceration. This led my family into severe poverty as my father was the only source of income. I have felt what it is like to feel hungry, cold, and hurt, to feel that no one wants to help you, you’re not loud enough. Several years later I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a friend. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. At the age of 15, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields: Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and General Surgery. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, helped gown patients, bring patients to and from the operating room, and assist in discharge and carry out services. After hours at home, I was putting together my own medical textbooks by researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. All of the information learned has resulted in multiple large binders which have led me to have very deep, yet intellectual conversations with the medical professionals and patients that I have interacted with. While working at Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated and I was valued for my time that I dedicated to better enhance my experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse or for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. My goal is to be a role model for anyone who does not think it is possible to battle through adversity, for those coming from low-income families and or first-generation college students. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams!

I aspire to be a role model for others who have been a victim of any form of abuse while in the pursuit of becoming a surgeon. Growing up, I did not grow up in a safe household as I was sexually abused by my father when I was nine years old which lead to his incarceration. This led my family into severe poverty as my father was the only source of income. I have felt what it is like to feel hungry, cold, and hurt, to feel that no one wants to help you, you’re not loud enough. Several years later I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a friend. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. At the age of 15, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields: Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and General Surgery. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, helped gown patients, bring patients to and from the operating room, and assist in discharge and carry out services. After hours at home, I was putting together my own medical textbooks by researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. All of the information learned has resulted in multiple large binders which have led me to have very deep, yet intellectual conversations with the medical professionals and patients that I have interacted with. While working at Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated and I was valued for my time that I dedicated to better enhance my experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse or for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. My goal is to be a role model for anyone who does not think it is possible to battle through adversity, for those coming from low-income families and or first-generation college students. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams!

Quality for me means that I am able to provide value without forcing it. Quality means that someone likes what you have to offer because they are able to benefit from your service or product. People will choose what they value depending on safety, efficiency, and reliability. I aspire to become an Orthopedic Surgeon as I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Younger I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients that they matter. At the age of 15, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields: Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and General Surgery. I was also given the opportunity to shadow my former physician performing total joint replacements and orthopedic elective cases. When working, I did not just shadow. Here I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, helped gown patients, bring patients to and from the operating room, and assist in discharge and carry out services, After hours at home, I was putting together my own medical textbooks by researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. All of the information learned has resulted in multiple large binders which have led me to have very deep, yet intellectual conversations with the medical professionals and patients that I have interacted with. While working at Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated and I was valued for my time that I dedicated to better enhance my experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. The reason for me giving back in the past and the near future before I go to college is because my orthopedic surgeon treated me more than I could have ever asked for. For him being there in a critical time in my life as I managed surgical rehabilitation at a young age as well as filling a hole in my life, has deeply inspired me to carry on his legacy of being a wholehearted practicing physician. I look up to my former surgeon as my own father figure. For Columbia Memorial Hospital and its connected clinics, I would give back in any way that I can in order to continue the gift of giving quality care. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse or for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. My goal is to be a role model for anyone who does not think it is possible to battle through adversity. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams.

My favorite scientist is my former orthopedic surgeon. I injured my knee which required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis but as a friend. Younger I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on my former physician’s practice of treating patients as they matter. Over the course of three years, I have worked alongside this physician while I volunteered at my local hospital in the orthopedic operating room and the Bone and Joint clinic. To have such an experience is very meaningful to me as I am pushing to be a first generation college student.

I aspire to become an Orthopedic Surgeon as I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients that they matter. At the age of 15, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields: Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and General Surgery. I was also given the opportunity to shadow my former physician performing total joint replacements and orthopedic elective cases. When working, I did not just shadow. Here I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, helped gown patients, bring patients to and from the operating room, and assist in discharge and carry out services, After hours at home, I was putting together my own medical textbooks by researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. All of the information learned has resulted in multiple large binders which have led me to have very deep, yet intellectual conversations with the doctors, nurses, and patients that I have encountered. While working at Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated and I was valued for my time that I dedicated to better enhance my experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. The reason for me giving back in the past and the near future before I go to college is because my orthopedic surgeon treated me more than I could have ever asked for. For him being there in a critical time in my life as I managed surgical rehabilitation at a young age as well as filling a hole in my life, has deeply inspired me to carry on his legacy of being a wholehearted practicing physician. I look up to my former surgeon as my own father figure. For Columbia Memorial Hospital and its connected clinics, I would give back in any way that I can. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse or for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. My goal is to be a role model for anyone who does not think it is possible to battle through adversity. I want to be the one someone runs up to and hugs tightly because I was able to help in a way that could never be reciprocated. To change someone’s life around. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams.

The year 2020 has been like no other as I believe anyone can agree. The past year for me has been quite a journey but unique in its own way. When I was told remote learning was the only option, I was excited yet fearful because having a learning disability meant that I could possibly struggle during this time of uncertainty. Despite my disability, I managed to preserve through my academics as well as make time to learn anatomy, as I aspire to become an orthopedic surgeon. In 2019, I volunteered at my hospital in Ambulatory Surgical Services and Orthopedic Surgery. In 2020, I was not allowed to return because of the pandemic as well as my age. I was heartbroken but knew that I wanted to still learn medicine in any way possible. I awoke at four am to learn medical terminology, sketch anatomical diagrams, and learn how to suture. I have learned the cranial nerves, the skull, the lungs, the elbow, the foot, and more. While I was learning at home, my mother was there as well because she has lost her job temporarily due to the pandemic. This was a difficult time for my family because she was just hired in January to then lose the job in March. My mother then collected unemployment insurance. Living in a single-parent household and my mother out of a minimum wage job, really pushed us over the edge. We had to learn to find a way to battle the obstacles thrown at us. With all the time that I had at my fingertips, I decided to do more! I knew being a senior in high school, I was going to be enrolled in Advanced Placement Biology. From May through August, I put researched biological terms and constructed three large binders of information. I also ordered a textbook from Amazon and learned from that as well. I was well prepared before I even stepped foot into the classroom. This year has been so much more than I thought it would be. I never thought this year would have unfolded the way that it did and so many can relate. In my experience with the year 2020, I used the extra time to my full advantage while staying safe in my home. I am thankful to have had extra time dedicated to my medical journey even though I was not volunteering at my hospital to do so. The research that I have done on my own will enhance my volunteer and career experience in the future. The reason for me learning medicine on my own is because I aspire to become an orthopedic surgeon as my physician treated me more than I could have ever asked for. I injured my knee which required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. For him being there in a critical time in my life as I managed surgical rehabilitation at a young age as well as filling a hole in my life, as my father was incarcerated, has deeply inspired me to carry on his legacy of being a wholehearted practicing physician. I look up to my former surgeon as my own father figure. My goal is to actively become a role model while in the pursuit of becoming a doctor so that my level of success is seen by younger generations as an inspiration. For those who have been abused and for those who come from a low-income family. No matter your age and circumstances, you can rise again if you follow your dreams.

I believe that society can most effectively empower women by enabling access for ladies who seek a career in a masculine profession, rather than stereotyping women to specific duties and gender-typical roles. My goal is to become an orthopedic surgeon which is highly dominated by males within the field. Recently, I have seen an incline of women joining this specialty which has comforted me, to know that it is going to be "safe" to enter a profession without being judged or labeled as weak. I want to be a role model while in the pursuit of becoming a doctor and once in practice so that my level of success is seen by younger generations as an inspiration, especially for women entering the medical field. In addition for women who have been abused, as well as come from a low-income family, the hardships I have personally gone through. In the summer of 2019 as a 15-year-old, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields, Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, made stretchers, brought patients to and from the operating room, and provided carry-out services after discharge instructions were discussed. After hours at home, I was researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. This led to the formation of several large binders of notes that allowed me to have intellectual conversations with the doctors, nurses, and patients that I have worked with. At Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was highly appreciated and I was valued for my time that I dedicated to enhancing my working experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. I aspire to become an Orthopedic Surgeon as I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. The reason behind giving back is because my surgeon treated me more than I could have ever asked for. Him being there in a critical time in my life as I managed surgical rehabilitation and by filling a hole in my life, has deeply inspired me to carry on his legacy of being a wholehearted practicing physician. While I am in practice, I will forever advocate for my patients more than what they come in the clinic for. I will implement my former physician’s ways of the practice of creating a rapport with my patients, to instill trust and a lasting friendship. My work will be meaningful, not just for me but for my patients, society, and generations to come. From my experience in my childhood as well as my volunteer work, I have learned that one moment in life or label does not define who you are and that you can still be successful despite your shortcomings. In order to empower women effectively in today's society, I believe is by allowing females in a man's field of work.

I come from a low-income family as neither of my parents has pursued higher education. I know how important education from learning and witnessing what a lack of education can do to somebody. I have dedicated all my time to acquire as much knowledge as possible throughout my childhood and especially in my teen years. In my case, higher education is the only way out. Battling my childhood hardships of being a victim of abuse, living in poverty, and undergoing knee surgery has all strengthened me in many aspects of my life. Both of my parents landed jobs after high school, did not apply to college. I first-hand witnessed the effects of how this decision impacted them, wondering if they could have done anything different to become a better version of themselves. I have seen the pain and heaviness they carry as I watch them labor away at work that does not enlighten their soul, just to come home to a hot meal. Seeing both my parents dread going to work in the morning then, witnessing their divorce has led me to support myself to become a leader, a position in which I was not aware that I could maintain. Coming from a single-parent family in which my mother works a minimum wage job. My father is incarcerated and we receive no child support. My mother’s earnings are barely enough to even keep us alive, therefore we get assistance from New York State. My mother is enrolled in Government Assistance in the form of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the Heat and Energy Program (HEAP) and has been for many years. In the summer of 2019 as a 15-year-old, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields, Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, made stretchers, brought patients to and from the operating room, and provided carry-out services after discharge instructions were discussed. After hours at home, I was researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. This led to the formation of several large binders of notes that allowed me to have intellectual conversations with the medical professionals and the patients that I have encountered. My dream is to become a doctor as a result of my personal orthopedic experience. It’s much more than me just falling in love with learning anatomy independently or from my work experience. It’s from the strong connection I have formed with my physician. When I was 14 years old, I injured my knee which required surgery, followed by a long rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. My goal is to actively become a role model while in the pursuit of becoming a doctor and once in practice so that my level of success is seen by younger generations as an inspiration or to anyone who had an injury or suffered from any form of abuse, and/or comes from a low-income family.

I aspire to become an Orthopedic Surgeon as I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients as they matter. In the summer of 2019 as a 15-year-old, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields, Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, made stretchers, brought patients to and from the operating room, and provided carry-out services after discharge instructions were discussed. After hours at home, I was researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. This led to the formation of several large binders of notes that allowed me to have intellectual conversations with the doctors, nurses, and patients that I have worked with. At Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was highly appreciated and I was valued for my time that I dedicated to enhancing my working experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. While volunteering, I still needed to make an income for my household as I come from a poor family. In the fall and winter months, I worked at TJ Maxx and also played Varsity Volleyball as I was cleared from my medical. I was able to do this while maintaining high grades and have a class rank of 11 out of 106 students in my grade. I was pleased to be inducted into my school’s National Honor Society that year and still be a member of the society today as we have communicated with current fifth graders at our elementary school in preparation for their middle school transition. With everything that I have going on, I’m still able to balance my volunteer work at the hospital currently, hold multiple minimum wage jobs in order to support my family, and play sports. As my dream is to become a doctor as a result of my personal orthopedic experience, it’s much more than me just falling in love with learning anatomy independently as I learned a tremendous amount of medical terminology on my own and from my work experience. It’s from the strong connection I have formed with my physician. My goal is to actively become a role model while in the pursuit of becoming a doctor and once in practice so that my level of success is seen by younger generations as an inspiration or to anyone who had an injury or suffered from any form of abuse, and/or comes from a low-income family. In addition, I am pushing to enter the medical field in order to be another female entering a masculine profession. While I am in practice, I will forever advocate for my patients more than what they come in the clinic for. I will implement my former physician’s ways of the practice of creating a rapport with my patients, to instill trust and a lasting friendship. My work will be meaningful, not just for me but for my patients, society, and generations to come.

I aspire to become an Orthopedic Surgeon as I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients that they matter. At the age of 15, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields: Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and General Surgery. I was also given the opportunity to shadow my former physician performing total joint replacements and orthopedic elective cases. When working, I did not just shadow. Here I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, helped gown patients, bring patients to and from the operating room, and assist in discharge and carry out services, After hours at home, I was putting together my own medical textbooks by researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. All of the information learned has resulted in multiple large binders which have led me to have very deep, yet intellectual conversations with the doctors, nurses, and patients that I have encountered. While working at Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated and I was valued for my time that I dedicated to better enhance my experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse or for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. My goal is to be a role model for anyone who does not think it is possible to battle through adversity. I want to be the one someone runs up to and hugs tightly because I was able to help in a way that could never be reciprocated. To change someone’s life around. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams.

I inspire to be an Orthopedic Surgeon. In the pursuit of becoming a doctor as well as earning my degree in medicine, I hope that I will inspire others who share the same background as me of being a first-generation college student, coming from a low-income family, and/or were a victim of any form of abuse. I want to be a source of encouragement for other children and/or adults who have/are going through hardships, that it is possible to still be successful despite current and past situations. I have dedicated my entire being to becoming a role model in the form of a doctor for anyone who has battled unimaginable hardships, especially in the form of abuse, as I have been sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. This forced my family to live in severe poverty as I now come from a single-parent household in which my mother works a minimum wage job. My mother's earnings alone are not enough to even keep us alive, therefore we get government assistance in the form of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the Heat and Energy Program (HEAP) in New York State. I have tirelessly fought to better myself so that one day I won’t have to face the consistent struggles that I had first-hand witness, my mother, aunts, and uncles carry and go through. I wish to be able to start a new path for myself, my children, and cousins, as well as for any other child or victim of abuse. I hope that scholarships, financial aid, and grants will enable me to have a life-changing experience no other in my family ever had. With my undergraduate degree in Exercise Science and my doctorate, I would love to give back financially to those in need such as donating or even building a homeless shelter, donating funds to the hospital that I have worked at, help my future patients be able to afford their medical expenses. But most importantly, I want to help financially support victims of sexual, verbal, and domestic abuse; as well as those who come from a severely low-income family as I have personally gone through these traumatic and challenging endeavors myself. I want to be someone that others can trust, and know that my assistance, compassion, and support is organic, that there is truth and intent behind my work. I chose Exercise Science as my major at the State University of New York at Oneonta. The reason behind my decision to pursue this degree is specifically because I have been actively learning medical terminology and human anatomy on my own since I was fourteen years old. I’ve physically handwritten a collection of medical textbooks that will hopefully help me in the future. I did this while balancing my school work, extracurriculars, and holding minimum wage jobs in order to support my family. I aspire to become an Orthopedic Surgeon as I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients that they matter. At the age of 15, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields: Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and General Surgery. I was also given the opportunity to shadow my former physician performing total joint replacements and orthopedic elective cases. When working, I did not just shadow. Here I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, helped gown patients, bring patients to and from the operating room, and assist in discharge and carry out services, After hours at home, I was putting together my own medical textbooks by researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. All of the information learned has resulted in multiple large binders which have led me to have very deep, yet intellectual conversations with the doctors, nurses, and patients that I have encountered. While working at Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated and I was valued for my time that I dedicated to better enhance my experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse or for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. My goal is to be a role model for anyone who does not think it is possible to battle through adversity. I want to be the one someone runs up to and hugs tightly because I was able to help in a way that could never be reciprocated. To change someone’s life around. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams.

The year 2020 has been like no other, as I believe anyone can testify that has been the case. My year, on the other hand, has unfolded I must say very serendipitously. By being told that remote learning was the only option in March, I was more than happy to learn this way as I knew I could use the granted time to my full advantage. During the spring of 2020, I woke up at 4:00 am each day to study anatomy independently from my school work. I learned the twelve cranial nerves, the thyroid gland and its hormones, and the kidneys, just to list a few. While learning. I put together two large binders of this information, with that not being all. I learned the brain, the spleen, the lungs, and elbow anatomy. With all the time that I had at my fingertips, I decided to do more! I knew being a senior in high school, I was going to be enrolled in Advanced Placement Biology. From May through August, I put together three AP Biology binders as well as write in a biology textbook I ordered on Amazon. With all the work that I have thrown at myself, I realized that working around the clock and under pressure was something that I can actually do in a healthy way. That being said, I became close with two physicians via Instagram, an Otolaryngologist, and a Foot and Ankle Surgeon. These two practicing physicians have helped and supported me when my very own hospital team could not, as I worked at my local hospital the year prior. Summer of 2020, I was planning on returning to Columbia Memorial Hospital, but due to the pandemic restrictions, I was not allowed to return. This was very upsetting when I received the news, but how I spent my year, I am very proud of what I have done with my time. The year prior, I volunteered at my local hospital as a 15-year-old. From my experience, I have become even more driven into becoming an Orthopedic Surgeon. During 2019 at my local hospital, I worked in the following fields: Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I was also given the opportunity to shadow my former physician. When working, I did not just shadow. Here I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, helped gown patients, bring patients to and from the operating room, and assist in discharge and carry out services. When I was working, I did not just shadow. After hours, I was putting together my own anatomical textbooks by learning medical terminology, drawing diagrams, and learning how to suture. This has led me to have very deep intellectual conversations with the doctors, nurses, and patients that I have come in contact with, my age being 15. While working at Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated and I was valued for my time that I dedicated to better enhance my experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. I aspire to become an Orthopedic Surgeon myself because I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients that they matter. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse or for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. My goal is to be a role model for anyone who does not think it is possible to battle through adversity. I want to be the one someone runs up to and hugs tightly because I was able to help in a way that could never be reciprocated. To change someone’s life around. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams.

I chose Exercise Science as my major at the State University of New York at Oneonta. The reason behind my decision to pursue this degree is specifically because I have been actively learning medical terminology and human anatomy on my own since I was fourteen years old. I’ve physically handwritten a collection of medical textbooks that will hopefully help me in the future. I did this while balancing my school work, extracurriculars, and holding minimum wage jobs in order to support my family. I aspire to become an Orthopedic Surgeon as I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients that they matter. At the age of 15, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields: Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and General Surgery. I was also given the opportunity to shadow my former physician performing total joint replacements and orthopedic elective cases. When working, I did not just shadow. Here I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, helped gown patients, bring patients to and from the operating room, and assist in discharge and carry out services, After hours at home, I was putting together my own medical textbooks by researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. All of the information learned has resulted in multiple large binders which have led me to have very deep, yet intellectual conversations with the doctors, nurses, and patients that I have encountered. While working at Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated and I was valued for my time that I dedicated to better enhance my experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse or for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. My goal is to be a role model for anyone who does not think it is possible to battle through adversity. I want to be the one someone runs up to and hugs tightly because I was able to help in a way that could never be reciprocated. To change someone’s life around. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams.

I will be pursuing an undergraduate degree in Exercise Science at SUNY Oneonta in the fall of 2021, as I inspire to be an Orthopedic Surgeon. In the pursuit of becoming a doctor as well as earning my degree in medicine, I hope that I will inspire others who share the same background as me of being a first-generation college student, coming from a low-income family, and/or were a victim of any form of abuse. I want to be a source of encouragement for other children and/or adults who have/are going through hardships, that it is possible to still be successful despite current and past situations. I have dedicated my entire being to becoming a role model in the form of a doctor for anyone who has battled unimaginable hardships, especially in the form of abuse, as I have been sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. This forced my family to live in severe poverty as I now come from a single-parent household in which my mother works a minimum wage job. My mother's earnings alone are not enough to even keep us alive, therefore we get government assistance in the form of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the Heat and Energy Program (HEAP) in New York State. I have tirelessly fought to better myself so that one day I won’t have to face the consistent struggles that I had first-hand witness, my mother, aunts, and uncles carry and go through. I wish to be able to start a new path for myself, my children, and cousins, as well as for any other child or victim of abuse. I hope that scholarships, financial aid, and grants will enable me to have a life-changing experience no other in my family ever had. With my undergraduate degree in Exercise Science and my doctorate, I would love to give back financially to those in need such as donating or even building a homeless shelter, donating funds to the hospital that I have worked at, help my future patients be able to afford their medical expenses. But most importantly, I want to help financially support victims of sexual, verbal, and domestic abuse; as well as those who come from a severely low-income family as I have personally gone through these traumatic and challenging endeavors myself. I want to be someone that others can trust, and know that my assistance, compassion, and support is organic, that there is truth and intent behind my work. At the age of 15, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields: Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and General Surgery. I was also given the opportunity to shadow my former physician performing total joint replacements and orthopedic elective cases. When working, I did not just shadow. Here I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, helped gown patients, bring patients to and from the operating room, and assist in discharge and carry out services, After hours at home, I was putting together my own medical textbooks by researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. All of the information learned has resulted in multiple large binders which have led me to have very deep, yet intellectual conversations with the doctors, nurses, and patients that I have encountered. While working at Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated and I was valued for my time that I dedicated to better enhance my experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse or for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. My goal is to be a role model for anyone who does not think it is possible to battle through adversity. I want to be the one someone runs up to and hugs tightly because I was able to help in a way that could never be reciprocated. To change someone’s life around. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams.

I will be pursuing an undergraduate degree in Exercise Science at SUNY Oneonta in the fall of 2021, as I inspire to be an Orthopedic Surgeon. In the pursuit of becoming a doctor as well as earning my degree in medicine, I hope that I will inspire others who share the same background as me of being a first-generation college student, coming from a low-income family, and/or were a victim of any form of abuse. I want to be a source of encouragement for other children and/or adults who have/are going through hardships, that it is possible to still be successful despite current and past situations. I have dedicated my entire being to becoming a role model in the form of a doctor for anyone who has battled unimaginable hardships, especially in the form of abuse, as I have been sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. This forced my family to live in severe poverty as I now come from a single-parent household in which my mother works a minimum wage job. My mother's earnings alone are not enough to even keep us alive, therefore we get government assistance in the form of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the Heat and Energy Program (HEAP) in New York State. I have tirelessly fought to better myself so that one day I won’t have to face the consistent struggles that I had first-hand witness, my mother, aunts, and uncles carry and go through. I wish to be able to start a new path for myself, my children, and cousins, as well as for any other child or victim of abuse. I hope that scholarships, financial aid, and grants will enable me to have a life-changing experience no other in my family ever had. With my undergraduate degree in Exercise Science and my doctorate, I would love to give back financially to those in need such as donating or even building a homeless shelter, donating funds to the hospital that I have worked at, help my future patients be able to afford their medical expenses. But most importantly, I want to help financially support victims of sexual, verbal, and domestic abuse; as well as those who come from a severely low-income family as I have personally gone through these traumatic and challenging endeavors myself. I want to be someone that others can trust, and know that my assistance, compassion, and support is organic, that there is truth and intent behind my work. At the age of 15, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields: Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and General Surgery. I was also given the opportunity to shadow my former physician performing total joint replacements and orthopedic elective cases. When working, I did not just shadow. Here I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, helped gown patients, bring patients to and from the operating room, and assist in discharge and carry out services, After hours at home, I was putting together my own medical textbooks by researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. All of the information learned has resulted in multiple large binders which have led me to have very deep, yet intellectual conversations with the doctors, nurses, and patients that I have encountered. While working at Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated and I was valued for my time that I dedicated to better enhance my experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart.

The year 2020 has been like no other, as I believe anyone can testify that has been the case. My year, on the other hand, has unfolded I must say very serendipitously. By being told that remote learning was the only option in March, I was more than happy to learn this way as I knew I could use the granted time to my full advantage. During the spring of 2020, I woke up at 4:00 am each day to study anatomy independently from my school work. I learned the twelve cranial nerves, the thyroid gland and its hormones, and the kidneys, just to list a few. While learning. I put together two large binders of this information, with that not being all. I learned the brain, the spleen, the lungs, and elbow anatomy. With all the time that I had at my fingertips, I decided to do more! I knew being a senior in high school, I was going to be enrolled in Advanced Placement Biology. From May through August, I put together three AP Biology binders as well as write in a biology textbook I ordered on Amazon. With all the work that I have thrown at myself, I realized that working around the clock and under pressure was something that I can actually do in a healthy way. That being said, I became close with two physicians via Instagram, an Otolaryngologist, and a Foot and Ankle Surgeon. These two practicing physicians have helped and supported me when my very own hospital team could not, as I worked at my local hospital the year prior. Summer of 2020, I was planning on returning to Columbia Memorial Hospital, but due to the pandemic restrictions, I was not allowed to return. This was very upsetting when I received the news, but how I spent my year, I am very proud of what I have done with my time. The year prior, I volunteered at my local hospital as a 15-year-old. From my experience, I have become even more driven into becoming an Orthopedic Surgeon. During 2019 at my local hospital, I worked in the following fields: Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. I was also given the opportunity to shadow my former physician. When working, I did not just shadow. Here I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, helped gown patients, bring patients to and from the operating room, and assist in discharge and carry out services. When I was working, I did not just shadow. After hours, I was putting together my own anatomical textbooks by learning medical terminology, drawing diagrams, and learning how to suture. This has led me to have very deep intellectual conversations with the doctors, nurses, and patients that I have come in contact with, my age being 15. While working at Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated and I was valued for my time that I dedicated to better enhance my experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. I aspire to become an Orthopedic Surgeon myself because I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients that they matter. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse or for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. My goal is to be a role model for anyone who does not think it is possible to battle through adversity. I want to be the one someone runs up to and hugs tightly because I was able to help in a way that could never be reciprocated. To change someone’s life around. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams. In the summer of 2021, I have gotten vaccinated and was approved to work at my local hospital again! I'm looking forward to it.

I aspire to become an Orthopedic Surgeon as I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients that they matter. At the age of 15, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields: Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and General Surgery. I was also given the opportunity to shadow my former physician performing total joint replacements and orthopedic elective cases. When working, I did not just shadow. Here I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, helped gown patients, bring patients to and from the operating room, and assist in discharge and carry out services, After hours at home, I was putting together my own medical textbooks by researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. All of the information learned has resulted in multiple large binders which have led me to have very deep, yet intellectual conversations with the doctors, nurses, and patients that I have encountered. While working at Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated and I was valued for my time that I dedicated to better enhance my experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse or for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. My goal is to be a role model for anyone who does not think it is possible to battle through adversity. I want to be the one someone runs up to and hugs tightly because I was able to help in a way that could never be reciprocated. To change someone’s life around. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams.

I chose Exercise Science as my major at the State University of New York at Oneonta. The reason behind my decision to pursue this degree is specifically because I have been actively learning medical terminology and human anatomy on my own since I was fourteen years old. I’ve physically handwritten a collection of medical textbooks that will hopefully help me in the future. I did this while balancing my school work, extracurriculars, and holding minimum wage jobs in order to support my family. I aspire to become an Orthopedic Surgeon as I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients that they matter. At the age of 15, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields: Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and General Surgery. I was also given the opportunity to shadow my former physician performing total joint replacements and orthopedic elective cases. When working, I did not just shadow. Here I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, helped gown patients, bring patients to and from the operating room, and assist in discharge and carry out services, After hours at home, I was putting together my own medical textbooks by researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. All of the information learned has resulted in multiple large binders which have led me to have very deep, yet intellectual conversations with the doctors, nurses, and patients that I have encountered. While working at Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated and I was valued for my time that I dedicated to better enhance my experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse or for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. My goal is to be a role model for anyone who does not think it is possible to battle through adversity. I want to be the one someone runs up to and hugs tightly because I was able to help in a way that could never be reciprocated. To change someone’s life around. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams. https://www.instagram.com/galewalerkadie963/?hl=en

I aspire to become an Orthopedic Surgeon as I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients that they matter. At the age of 15, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields: Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and General Surgery. I was also given the opportunity to shadow my former physician performing total joint replacements and orthopedic elective cases. When working, I did not just shadow. Here I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, helped gown patients, bring patients to and from the operating room, and assist in discharge and carry out services, After hours at home, I was putting together my own medical textbooks by researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. All of the information learned has resulted in multiple large binders which have led me to have very deep, yet intellectual conversations with the doctors, nurses, and patients that I have encountered. While working at Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated and I was valued for my time that I dedicated to better enhance my experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse or for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. My goal is to be a role model for anyone who does not think it is possible to battle through adversity. I want to be the one someone runs up to and hugs tightly because I was able to help in a way that could never be reciprocated. To change someone’s life around. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams.

I will be pursuing an undergraduate degree in Exercise Science at SUNY Oneonta in the fall of 2021, as I inspire to be an Orthopedic Surgeon. In the pursuit of becoming a doctor as well as earning my degree in medicine, I hope that I will inspire others who share the same background as me of being a first-generation college student, coming from a low-income family, and/or were a victim of any form of abuse. I want to be a source of encouragement for other children and/or adults who have/are going through hardships, that it is possible to still be successful despite current and past situations. I have dedicated my entire being to becoming a role model in the form of a doctor for anyone who has battled unimaginable hardships, especially in the form of abuse, as I have been sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. This forced my family to live in severe poverty as I now come from a single-parent household in which my mother works a minimum wage job. My mother's earnings alone are not enough to even keep us alive, therefore we get government assistance in the form of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the Heat and Energy Program (HEAP) in New York State. I have tirelessly fought to better myself so that one day I won’t have to face the consistent struggles that I had first-hand witness, my mother, aunts, and uncles carry and go through. I wish to be able to start a new path for myself, my children, and cousins, as well as for any other child or victim of abuse. I hope that scholarships, financial aid, and grants will enable me to have a life-changing experience no other in my family ever had. With my undergraduate degree in Exercise Science and my doctorate, I would love to give back financially to those in need such as donating or even building a homeless shelter, donating funds to the hospital that I have worked at, help my future patients be able to afford their medical expenses. But most importantly, I want to help financially support victims of sexual, verbal, and domestic abuse; as well as those who come from a severely low-income family as I have personally gone through these traumatic and challenging endeavors myself. I want to be someone that others can trust, and know that my assistance, compassion, and support is organic, that there is truth and intent behind my work. I chose Exercise Science as my major at the State University of New York at Oneonta. The reason behind my decision to pursue this degree is specifically because I have been actively learning medical terminology and human anatomy on my own since I was fourteen years old. I’ve physically handwritten a collection of medical textbooks that will hopefully help me in the future. I did this while balancing my school work, extracurriculars, and holding minimum wage jobs in order to support my family. I aspire to become an Orthopedic Surgeon as I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients that they matter. At the age of 15, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields: Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and General Surgery. I was also given the opportunity to shadow my former physician performing total joint replacements and orthopedic elective cases. When working, I did not just shadow. Here I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, helped gown patients, bring patients to and from the operating room, and assist in discharge and carry out services, After hours at home, I was putting together my own medical textbooks by researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. All of the information learned has resulted in multiple large binders which have led me to have very deep, yet intellectual conversations with the doctors, nurses, and patients that I have encountered. While working at Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated and I was valued for my time that I dedicated to better enhance my experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse or for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. My goal is to be a role model for anyone who does not think it is possible to battle through adversity. I want to be the one someone runs up to and hugs tightly because I was able to help in a way that could never be reciprocated. To change someone’s life around. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams.

I have dedicated my entire being to becoming a role model for children who have suffered from any form of abuse as I have been sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. This has left my family to live in severe poverty as I come from a single-parent household in which my mother works a minimum wage job. My mother's earnings alone are not enough to even keep us alive, therefore we get assistance from the state in the form of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the Heat and Energy Program (HEAP). I have felt what it is like to be hungry, cold, and hurt. To feel that no one wants to help you, you’re not loud enough. I know what it feels like to not feel safe going home not knowing when my next meal was. I have tirelessly fought to better myself so that one day I will be able to start a new path for my children and cousins. I hope that scholarships, grants, and financial aid will enable me to have a life-changing experience by allowing me to be a first-generation college student. I aspire to become an Orthopedic Surgeon as I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients that they matter. At the age of 15, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields: Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Womens Health. Here, I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, watched endoscopies and colonoscopies, gall bladder removals, and tubal ligations. I was also given the opportunity to shadow my former physician performing total joint replacements and orthopedic elective cases. When working, I did not just shadow, after hours at home, I was putting together my own medical textbooks by researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. All of this information has resulted in multiple large binders which have led me to have very deep, yet intellectual conversations with the doctors, nurses, and patients that I have encountered. While working at Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated and I was valued for my time that I dedicated to better enhance my experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same practice I received from my physician, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse or for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. I want to be a role model for anyone who does not think it is possible to battle through adversity. I want to be the one someone runs up to and hugs tightly because I was able to help in a way that could never be reciprocated. To change someone’s life around. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams.

Over the last few years, I have developed a deep desire to give back to my community as I have received the most heartwarming gesture that I believe is too difficult to ever reciprocate. The only way I could ever give back is by devoting my entire being to becoming an Orthopedic Surgeon. I aspire to be a continuous active role model for any child who was brought up in a low-income family and/or has been a victim of any form of abuse. I was sexually abused when I was younger by my father which led to his incarceration and forced my mother to seek employment. My mother works a minimum wage job and her earnings are barely enough to even keep us alive, receiving no child support, therefore we get assistance from the state. My mother is enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Heat and Energy Program (HEAP) and has been for many years. I have felt what it's like to be hungry, cold, and hurt, to feel like no one wants to help you, you're not loud enough. I have tiredly fought to better myself to become a first-generation college student as no one in my family has ever pursued higher education. During a high school softball game, injured my knee which required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not treat me as a diagnosis but as a person, a friend. Having someone care for me for a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former surgeon of treating patients that they matter. At the age of 15, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through the following fields" Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and Orthopedics. Here, I did not just shadow. Here, I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, provided carry-out services to patients after surgery, and brought patients to and from the operating room and the Anthestic care unit. This is not all. At home after hours, I was putting together my own medical textbooks by researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. All of this information has resulted in the formation of four large binders which had lead me to have very deep and intellectual conversations with the doctors, nurses, and patients that I have encountered. While working, I was appreciated and valued. The hospital became my new home, my heart. I have tirelessly fought to better myself so that one day I will be able to start a new path for my children, and cousins. I hope that scholarships and financial aid will allow me to have an experience none of my elder family members have experienced. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the practice my former physician has given me, as he cared for me as a patient wholeheartedly, instead of treating me just based on my injury. I want to be a role model for children and anyone else who has been a victim of abuse and/or comes from a low-income family. I'm entering medicine for young women who may feel insecure about entering a masculine profession. For anyone who is having difficulty navigating through adversity. I want to be the one someone runs up to and his tightly because I was able to change their life around for the better. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams.

Over the last few years, I have developed a deep desire to give back to my community as I have received the most heartwarming gesture that I feel is too difficult to ever reciprocate. The only way I could ever come close to giving back is to dedicate my entire being to become an active role model for victims who have suffered any form of abuse. To do this, I am working on becoming an orthopedic surgeon despite my background to show that no matter your circumstances you can rise again. As a freshman in high school, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Throughout my recovery, I was more than moved by my doctors' bedside manners. This physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a patient, a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients that they matter. At the age of 15, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through the following fields: Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, OBGYN, and Orthopedics. Here, I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, watched endoscopies and colonoscopies, gall bladder removals, and tubal ligations. I was also given the opportunity to shadow my former physician performing total joint replacements and orthopedic elective cases. When working, I did not just shadow, after hours at home, I was putting together my own medical textbooks by researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. All of this information has resulted in the formation of four large binders which has led me to have very deep, yet intellectual conversations with the doctors, nurses, and patients that I have encountered. While working at Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated and I was valued for my time that I dedicated to better enhance my experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. 2020, the COVID-19 Pandemic restricted me from returning to the hospital. I was crushed. Instead, I used the time I was granted to continue creating my textbooks by writing up medical conditions I researched. The amount of unconditional love and support that I have received from my former physician is truly something that I will forever hold onto. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement this form of practice, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this to be a role model and to actively help anyone who has been a victim or for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. I want to be a role model for anyone who does not think it is possible to battle through adversity. I want to be the one someone runs up to and hugs tightly because I was able to help in a way that could never be reciprocated. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams. Yes, I did share this with my former physician- we are still very close.

Over the last few years, I have developed a deep desire to give back to my community as I have received the most heartwarming gesture that I feel is too difficult to ever reciprocate. The only way I could ever come close to giving back is to dedicate my entire being to become an active role model for victims who have suffered any form of abuse. To do this, I am working on becoming an orthopedic surgeon despite my background to show that no matter your circumstances you can rise again. As a freshman in high school, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Throughout my recovery, I was more than moved by my doctors' bedside manners. This physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a patient, a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients that they matter. At the age of 15, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through the following fields: Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, OBGYN, and Orthopedics. Here, I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, watched endoscopies and colonoscopies, gall bladder removals, and tubal ligations. I was also given the opportunity to shadow my former physician performing total joint replacements and orthopedic elective cases. When working, I did not just shadow, after hours at home, I was putting together my own medical textbooks by researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. All of this information has resulted in the formation of four large binders which has led me to have very deep, yet intellectual conversations with the doctors, nurses, and patients that I have encountered. While working at Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated and I was valued for my time that I dedicated to better enhance my experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. 2020, the COVID-19 Pandemic restricted me from returning to the hospital. I was crushed. Instead, I used the time I was granted to continue creating my textbooks by writing up medical conditions I researched. The amount of unconditional love and support that I have received from my former physician is truly something that I will forever hold onto. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement this form of practice, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this to be a role model and to actively help anyone who has been a victim or for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. I want to be a role model for anyone who does not think it is possible to battle through adversity. I want to be the one someone runs up to and hugs tightly because I was able to help in a way that could never be reciprocated. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams.

I have received the most heartwarming gesture that I feel is too difficult to ever reciprocate. The only way I could ever come close to giving back is by devoting my entire life to actively becoming a role model for victims who have suffered from any form of abuse, as well as a source of encouragement for people who may think it is impossible to succeed due to low income. I aspire to become an Orthopedic Surgeon as I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients that they matter. At the age of 15, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through the following fields: Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and womens health. Here, I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, watched endoscopies and colonoscopies, gall bladder removals, and tubal ligations. I was also given the opportunity to shadow my former physician performing total joint replacements and orthopedic elective cases. When working, I did not just shadow, after hours at home, I was putting together my own medical textbooks by researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. All of this information has resulted in multiple large binders which have led me to have very deep, yet intellectual conversations with the doctors, nurses, and patients that I have encountered. While working at Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated and I was valued for my time that I dedicated to better enhance my experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. 2020, the COVID-19 Pandemic restricted me from returning to the hospital, my age also a factor. I was crushed. Instead, I used the time I was granted to continue creating my textbooks by writing up medical conditions I researched and drawing anatomical structures of the body. How I spent each of these summers, I am proud of what I have done with my time. Looking back at where I have come from, being abused and feeling alone, to know that I am still so young as a 17-year-old, I can not believe how I changed my life around using my injury as leverage. I can not express in words how thankful I am for my injury for bringing me so much peace and direction. The amount of unconditional love and support that I have received from my surgeon is truly something that I will forever hold onto. I look up to my former physician as my very own father figure, to have met a person who has brought me so much closure, comfort, and guidance, I couldn't ask for anything better. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement this form of practice, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for the people that are behind me. For anyone who has been a victim or for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. I want to be a role model for anyone who does not think it is possible to battle through adversity. I want to be the one someone runs up to and hugs tightly because I was able to help in a way that could never be reciprocated. To change someone’s life around. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams. Battling my childhood hardships from living in poverty, being a victim of abuse, and undergoing knee surgery, has strengthened me in many aspects of my life. Throughout my experiences, I have felt what it is like to be hungry, cold, and hurt. To feel that no one wants to help you, you’re not loud enough. I know what it feels like to not feel safe going home when my next meal was. I know what it is like to be left home alone when a parent goes to work because we needed food and electricity. I come from a single-parent household in which my mother works a minimum wage job. My mother's earnings alone are not enough to even keep us alive, therefore we get assistance from the State. My mother is enrolled in Government Assistance in the form of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the Heat and Energy Program (HEAP) and has been for many years. I have tirelessly fought to better myself so that one day I will be able to start a new path for my children and cousins. I hope that scholarships, grants, and financial aid will enable me to have a life-changing experience by allowing me to be a first-generation college student. My goal is to be a role model for any child who has suffered from any form of abuse or coming from a low-income family. I am doing this for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession and to be a role model for anyone who does not think it is possible to battle through adversity. I want to be the one someone runs up to and hugs tightly because I was able to help in a way that could never be reciprocated. To change someone’s life around. Not only that, I will forever advocate for my patients more than what I am presented with.

Over the last few years, I have developed a deep desire to give back to my community as I have received the most heartwarming gesture that I feel is too difficult to ever reciprocate. The only way I could ever come close to giving back is by devoting my entire life to actively becoming a role model for victims who have suffered from any form of abuse and a source of encouragement for people who may think it is impossible to succeed due to low income. I aspire to become an Orthopedic Surgeon as I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients that they matter. At the age of 15, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through the following fields: Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, and women health. Here, I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, watched endoscopies and colonoscopies, gall bladder removals, and tubal ligations. I was also given the opportunity to shadow my former physician performing total joint replacements and orthopedic elective cases. When working, I did not just shadow, after hours at home, I was putting together my own medical textbooks by researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. All of this information has resulted in the formation of four large binders which has led me to have very deep, yet intellectual conversations with the doctors, nurses, and patients that I have encountered. While working at Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated and I was valued for my time that I dedicated to better enhance my experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement this form of practice, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim or for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. I want to be a role model for anyone who does not think it is possible to battle through adversity. I want to be the one someone runs up to and hugs tightly because I was able to help in a way that could never be reciprocated. To change someone’s life around. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams.

Over the last few years, I have developed a deep desire to give back to my community as I have received the most heartwarming gesture that I feel is too difficult to ever reciprocate. The only way I could ever come close to giving back is by devoting my entire life to actively becoming a role model for victims who have suffered from any form of abuse and a source of encouragement for people who may think it is impossible to succeed due to low income. I aspire to become an Orthopedic Surgeon as I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients that they matter. At the age of 15, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through the following fields: Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, OBGYN, and Orthopedics. Here, I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, watched endoscopies and colonoscopies, gall bladder removals, and tubal ligations. I was also given the opportunity to shadow my former physician performing total joint replacements and orthopedic elective cases. When working, I did not just shadow, after hours at home, I was putting together my own medical textbooks by researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. All of this information has resulted in the formation of four large binders which has led me to have very deep, yet intellectual conversations with the doctors, nurses, and patients that I have encountered. While working at Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated and I was valued for my time that I dedicated to better enhance my experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. 2020, the COVID-19 Pandemic restricted me from returning to the hospital, my age also a factor. I was crushed. Instead, I used the time I was granted to continue creating my textbooks by writing up medical conditions I researched and drawing anatomical structures of the body. I did this by waking up at 4:00 am each day and working until 10:00 pm with no breaks. How I spent each of these summers, I am proud of what I have done with my time. Looking back at where I have come from, being abused and feeling alone, to know that I am still so young as a 17-year-old, I can not believe how I changed my life around using my injury as leverage. I can not express in words how thankful I am for my injury for bringing me so much peace and direction. The amount of unconditional love and support that I have received from my surgeon is truly something that I will forever hold onto. I look up to my former physician as my very own father figure, to have met a person who has brought me so much closure, comfort, and guidance, I couldn't ask for anything better. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement this form of practice, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for the people that are behind me. For anyone who has been a victim or for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. I want to be a role model for anyone who does not think it is possible to battle through adversity. I want to be the one someone runs up to and hugs tightly because I was able to help in a way that could never be reciprocated. To change someone’s life around. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams.

Over the last few years, I have developed a deep desire to give back to my community as I have received the most heartwarming gesture that I feel is too difficult to ever reciprocate. The only way I could ever come close to giving back is by devoting my entire life to actively becoming a role model for victims who have suffered from any form of abuse and a source of encouragement for people who may think it is impossible to succeed due to low income. I aspire to become an Orthopedic Surgeon as I had an injury to my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients that they matter. At the age of 15, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through the following fields: Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, OBGYN, and Orthopedics. Here, I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, watched endoscopies and colonoscopies, gall bladder removals, and tubal ligations. I was also given the opportunity to shadow my former physician performing total joint replacements and orthopedic elective cases. When working, I did not just shadow, after hours at home, I was putting together my own medical textbooks by researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. All of this information has resulted in the formation of four large binders which has led me to have very deep, yet intellectual conversations with the doctors, nurses, and patients that I have encountered. While working at Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated and I was valued for my time that I dedicated to better enhance my experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. 2020, the COVID-19 Pandemic restricted me from returning to the hospital, my age also a factor. I was crushed. Instead, I used the time I was granted to continue creating my textbooks by writing up medical conditions I researched and drawing anatomical structures of the body. I did this by waking up at 4:00 am each day and working until 10:00 pm with no breaks. How I spent each of these summers, I am proud of what I have done with my time. Looking back at where I have come from, being abused and feeling alone, to know that I am still so young as a 17-year-old, I can not believe how I changed my life around using my injury as leverage. I can not express in words how thankful I am for my injury for bringing me so much peace and direction. The amount of unconditional love and support that I have received from my surgeon is truly something that I will forever hold onto. I look up to my former physician as my very own father figure, to have met a person who has brought me so much closure, comfort, and guidance, I couldn't ask for anything better. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement this form of practice, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for the people that are behind me. For anyone who has been a victim or for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. I want to be a role model for anyone who does not think it is possible to battle through adversity. I want to be the one someone runs up to and hugs tightly because I was able to help in a way that could never be reciprocated. To change someone’s life around. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams.

Over the last few years, I have developed a deep desire to give back to my community as I have received the most heartwarming gesture that I feel is too difficult to ever reciprocate. The only way I could ever come close to giving back is to dedicate my entire being to become an active role model for victims who have suffered any form of abuse. To do this, I am working on becoming an orthopedic surgeon despite my background to show that no matter your circumstances you can rise again. As a freshman in high school, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Throughout my recovery, I was more than moved by my doctors' bedside manners. This physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a patient, a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients that they matter. At the age of 15, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through the following fields: Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, OBGYN, and Orthopedics. Here, I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, watched endoscopies and colonoscopies, gall bladder removals, and tubal ligations. I was also given the opportunity to shadow my former physician performing total joint replacements and orthopedic elective cases. When working, I did not just shadow, after hours at home, I was putting together my own medical textbooks by researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. All of this information has resulted in the formation of four large binders which has led me to have very deep, yet intellectual conversations with the doctors, nurses, and patients that I have encountered. While working at Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated and I was valued for my time that I dedicated to better enhance my experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. 2020, the COVID-19 Pandemic restricted me from returning to the hospital. I was crushed. Instead, I used the time I was granted to continue creating my textbooks by writing up medical conditions I researched and drawing anatomical structures of the body. I did this by waking up at 4:00 am each day and working until 10:00 pm with no breaks. How I spent each of these summers, I am proud of what I have done with my time. Looking back, I am so beyond thankful for my injury for bringing me so much peace and direction. The amount of unconditional love and support that I have received from my former physician is truly something that I will forever hold onto. To have met a person who has brought me so much closure and guidance, I couldn't ask for anything better. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement this form of practice, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this to be a role model and to actively help anyone who has been a victim or for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. I want to be a role model for anyone who does not think it is possible to battle through adversity. I want to be the one someone runs up to and hugs tightly because I was able to help in a way that could never be reciprocated. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams.

"Nobody has ever proven to somebody how inspirational that person was to them". This is my quote, a line that I have created two years ago when I realized what my knee injury symbolized and the meaning of the strong rapport my former physician and I hold. I aspire to become an Orthopedic Surgeon as I received the most heartwarming gesture that I feel is too difficult to ever reciprocate. The only way I could ever come close to giving back is by devoting my entire life to actively become a role model for victims who have suffered from any form of abuse. As a freshman in high school, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Over this time, I was more than moved when my surgeon did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a person, a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients that they matter. At the age of 15, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through the following fields: Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, and General Surgery. I was also given the opportunity to work alongside my former physician performing total joint replacements and orthopedic elective cases. After hours at home, I was putting together my own medical textbooks by researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. All of this information has resulted in the formation of four large binders, leading me to have deep, yet intellectual conversations with the doctors, nurses, and patients that I have encountered. The hospital became my new home, my heart. "Nobody has ever proven to somebody how inspirational that person was to them". I can not express how thankful I am for all the information that I have learned and the experiences that I've had while currently a high school senior. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement the same form of practice my surgeon gave me, to lead by example, and to prove how much he has changed my life. I am doing this for anyone who has been a victim of abuse or for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. I want to be a role model for anyone who does not think it is possible to battle through adversity. I want to be the one someone runs up to and hugs tightly because I was able to help in a way that could never be reciprocated. To change someone’s life around. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams.

Over the last few years, I have developed a deep desire to give back to my community as I have received the most heartwarming gesture that I feel is too difficult to ever reciprocate. The only way I could ever come close to giving back is to dedicate my entire being to become an active role model for victims who have suffered any form of abuse. To do this, I am working on becoming an orthopedic surgeon despite my background to show that no matter your circumstances you can rise again. As a freshman in high school, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Throughout my recovery, I was more than moved by my doctors' bedside manners. This physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but as a patient, a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients that they matter. At the age of 15, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through the following fields: Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, OBGYN, and Orthopedics. Here, I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, watched endoscopies and colonoscopies, gall bladder removals, and tubal ligations. I was also given the opportunity to shadow my former physician performing total joint replacements and orthopedic elective cases. When working, I did not just shadow, after hours at home, I was putting together my own medical textbooks by researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. All of this information has resulted in the formation of four large binders which has led me to have very deep, yet intellectual conversations with the doctors, nurses, and patients that I have encountered. While working at Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated and I was valued for my time that I dedicated to better enhance my experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. 2020, the COVID-19 Pandemic restricted me from returning to the hospital. I was crushed. Instead, I used the time I was granted to continue creating my textbooks by writing up medical conditions I researched and drawing anatomical structures of the body. I did this by waking up at 4:00 am each day and working until 10:00 pm with no breaks. How I spent each of these summers, I am proud of what I have done with my time. Looking back, I am so beyond thankful for my injury for bringing me so much peace and direction. The amount of unconditional love and support that I have received from my former physician is truly something that I will forever hold onto. To have met a person who has brought me so much closure and guidance, I couldn't ask for anything better. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement this form of practice, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this to be a role model and to actively help anyone who has been a victim or for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. I want to be a role model for anyone who does not think it is possible to battle through adversity. I want to be the one someone runs up to and hugs tightly because I was able to help in a way that could never be reciprocated. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams.

"My everything" literally means everything to me. No words could ever express how truly grateful I am to have such a person in my life, to guide me in a direction that means more than I could have ever dreamed of. "My everything" is my former physician. As a freshman in high school, I injured my knee which ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation. Throughout my recovery, I was more than moved by my doctors' bedside manners and was blown away by how sweet and gentle he has been with me. This doctor did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but a patient, a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients that they matter. At the age of 15, I volunteered at my local hospital rotating through the following fields: Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, OBGYN, and Orthopedics. Here, I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, watched endoscopies and colonoscopies, gall bladder removals, tubal ligations, total joint replacements, and orthopedic elective cases. When working, I did not just shadow, after hours at home, I was putting together my own medical textbooks by researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. All of this information has resulted in the formation of two large binders which has led me to have very deep, yet intellectual conversations with the doctors, nurses, and patients that I have encountered. While working at Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated and I was valued for my time that I dedicated to better enhance my experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. The amount of unconditional love and support that I have received from my surgeon is truly something that I will forever hold onto. I look up to my former physician as my very own father figure, to have met a person who has brought me so much closure and guidance, I couldn't ask for anything better. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement this form of practice, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am wanting to be a role model for anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse or for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. I want to be the one someone looks up to if they think it is impossible to battle through adversity. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams. If you can't see photo- I will send it (518-929-7501) Thanks! https://docs.google.com/document/d/14i4hiEyIoxSp5Owhantdi8gToMSqV9VnQ3Ylkl-qEN4/edit

I aspire to become an Orthopedic Surgeon as I had a knee injury that ultimately required surgery, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process. Throughout my recovery, I was more than moved by my physician's bedside manners and was blown away by how sweet and gentle he has been with me. This doctor did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but a patient, a friend. Younger, I was sexually abused by my father. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients that they matter. At the age of 15, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital rotating through the following fields: Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, OBGYN, and Orthopedics. Here, I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, watched endoscopies and colonoscopies, gall bladder removals, tubal ligations, total joint replacements, and orthopedic elective cases. When working, I did not just shadow, after hours at home, I was putting together my own medical textbooks by researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. All of this information has resulted in the formation of two large binders which has led me to have very deep, yet intellectual conversations with the doctors, nurses, and patients that I have encountered. While working at Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated and I was valued for my time that I dedicated to better enhance my experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. 2020, the COVID-19 Pandemic restricted me from returning to the hospital, my age also a factor. I was crushed. Instead, I used the time I was granted to continue creating my textbooks to total four, by writing up medical conditions I researched and drawing anatomical structures of the body. I did this by waking up at 4:00 am each day and working until 10:00 pm with no breaks. How I spent each of these summers, I am proud of what I have done with my time. Looking back at where I have come from, being abused and feeling alone, to know that I am still so young as a 17-year-old, I can not believe how I changed my life around using my injury as leverage. I can not express in words how thankful I am for my injury for bringing me so much peace and direction. The amount of unconditional love and support that I have received from my surgeon is truly something that I will forever hold onto. I look up to my former physician as my very own father figure, to have met a person who has brought me so much closure, comfort, and guidance, I couldn't ask for anything better. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement this form of practice, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for the people that are behind me. For anyone who has been a victim or for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. I want to be a role model for anyone who does not think it is possible to battle through adversity. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams.

From battling my childhood hardships as a victim of abuse and an injury, using these to my advantage has catapulted me into redefining my future. Throughout my experiences, I have felt what it is like to be hungry, cold, and hurt. To feel that no one wants to help you, you’re not loud enough. I know what it feels like to not feel safe going home, when my next meal was. I know what it is like to be left home alone when a parent goes to work, learning to cook on my own, and not being taught - limited food choices, none nutritious. In middle school, I was left to fight for myself when my mother was forced to seek employment. When coming home, no one was there for me to be my emotional backbone. I have first hand witnessed the struggles of my mother going to work each day, just in order to come home to a warm house and a warm meal. I have felt what it is like to live in a dirty house that smells like mold because our laundry and wet towels are not washed as we have no money to go to the Laundry Matt. I have also seen my mother lose many minimum wage jobs to then collect unemployment insurance. This time in her life and mine was the most challenging and frightening as we had no money for basic necessities. I have seen my mother go to the Department of Social Services routinely to collect government assistance in the form of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the Heat and Energy Program (HEAP). I could never go through what she has. I could never have my children share my hardships, to go to bed hungry. No one in my family has ever thought of reaching a higher education because of the price tag. Seeing the everyday struggles of my mother and having those afflictions impact me is not okay. Only if higher education was not so expensive, would I have seen what I can't unsee? For me, I will not take NO as an answer when it comes to my higher education. In the past, I have been labeled with a learning disability and have an Individualized Education Program (IEP) document, which I have overcome. I had to fight for my education through my IEP by going into school half an hour early each day to get help on my math homework. I also refused to eat lunch in middle school and some high school in order to get one-on-one help from teachers on my homework and other assignments daily. I had to do this because if I were to go home I would be distracted. Not only was I exhausted from pushing myself so hard, but I have also been optimistic for the future I have been working so diligently towards. Five years later as a freshman in high school, I decided to play a school sport, softball where I injured my knee. I was brought to the Emergency Room where X- Rays were ordered. The Physician Assistant informed me that the images are not enough to confirm a diagnosis, that I must follow up with the Columbia Memorial Bone and Joint Center. Two weeks later, I was sitting on a green gurney waiting to meet my doctor. There was a knock on the door and a man in a white lab coat walked in. I was introduced to my surgeon as we shook hands. During my appointment, I was informed that I tore my Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) and that surgery would be required to fix it. I was also told that recovery typically lasts about a year. Throughout my ACL Journey, I was impressed with my physician's bedside manners and was blown away by how sweet and gentle he has been with me. I was more than moved when my physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but a person, a friend. Having a physician several years later after my father's incarceration, who actually cared for me, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. This inspired me to carry on the legacy of my former physician of treating patients that they matter. June 24, 2019, I was in the clinic, my very last post-op appointment. I remember having a repeating question keep popping into my head, “What if I never see my favorite doctor again”? I did not know how to answer that question yet, I did not know if that was it. I was interrupted by my surgeon's signature knock as he entered the room. We talked about my surgery and recovery, how well I have handled it, until we shook hands once again, this time for a different purpose. While I was walking to the parking lot, I was having thoughts such as, “ How could we have come so far and leave it there? There must be more to our doctor-patient relationship than this”. Soon enough it clicked. I was determined to carry on his legacy of making patients feel that they matter. During the summer of 2019, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital in the following fields: Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, OBGYN, and Orthopedics. When I was working, I did not just shadow. After hours, I was putting together my own anatomical textbooks by learning medical terminology, drawing diagrams, and learning how to suture. This has led me to have very deep, yet intellectual conversations with the doctors, nurses, and patients that I have come in contact with, my age being 15. While working at Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated and I was valued for my time that I dedicated to better enhance my experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart.

My role model has been someone I was not expecting, a doctor. Throughout my childhood, I was domestically, verbally, and sexually abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Since then, my family has struggled financially as my mom had to seek multiple minimum wage jobs, collect Government Assistance, and Unemployment Insurance. Throughout my experiences, I have felt what it is like to be hungry, cold, and hurt. To feel that no one wants to help you, you’re not loud enough. I know what it feels like to not feel safe going home, when my next meal was. Five years later as a freshman in high school, I decided to play a school sport, softball as this is what my family played regularly. At my last home game, I stole second base as I felt a “pop” in my knee wondering when the pain would come. My leg was locked but could not feel anything. I tried to stand up but couldn’t. I was brought to the Emergency Room where X-rays were ordered. The Physician Assistant told me that the images are not enough to confirm a diagnosis, that I must follow up with the Columbia Memorial Bone and Joint Center. Two weeks later, I was sitting on a green gurney waiting to meet my doctor. There was a knock on the door and a man in a white lab coat walked in. I was introduced to my surgeon as we shook hands. During my appointment, I was informed that I tore my Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) and that surgery would be required to fix it. I was also told that recovery typically lasts about a year. Throughout this time, I was impressed with my physician's bedside manners by how sweet and gentle he has been with me. This doctor did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but a patient, a friend. Having a physician several years later who actually cared for me over a long period of time, made me feel safe, something I never had growing up. June 24, 2019, was my very last post-op appointment. I remember having a repeating question keep popping into my head, “What if I never see my favorite doctor again”? I did not know how to answer that question yet, I did not know if that was it. I was interrupted by my surgeon's signature knock as he entered the room. We talked about my surgery and recovery, how well I have handled it, until we shook hands once again, this time for a different purpose. While I was walking to the parking lot, I was having thoughts such as, “ How could we have come so far and leave it there? There must be more to our doctor-patient relationship than this”. Soon enough it clicked. I was determined to carry on his legacy of making patients feel that they matter. At the age of 15, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital in the summer,l rotating through the following fields: Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, OBGYN, and Orthopedics. Here, I took patients' vitals, collected urine samples, watched endoscopies and colonoscopies, gall bladder removals, tubal ligations, total joint replacements, and orthopedic elective cases. When working, I did not just shadow, after hours at home, I was putting together my own medical textbooks by researching medical terminology, sketching anatomical diagrams, and learning how to suture. All of this information has resulted in the formation of two large binders which has led me to have very deep, yet intellectual conversations with the doctors, nurses, and patients that I have encountered. While working at Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated and I was valued for my time that I dedicated to better enhance my experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. 2020, the COVID-19 Pandemic restricted me from returning to the hospital, my age also a factor. I was crushed. Instead, I used the time I was granted to continue creating my textbooks to total four, by writing up medical conditions I researched and drawing anatomical structures of the body. I did this by waking up at 4:00 am each day and working until 10:00 pm with no breaks. How I spent each of these summers, I am proud of what I have done with my time. Looking back at where I have come from, being abused and feeling alone, to know that I am still so young as a 17-year-old, I can not believe how I changed my life around using my injury as leverage. I can not express in words how thankful I am for my injury for bringing me so much peace and direction. The amount of unconditional love and support that I have received from my surgeon is truly something that I will forever hold onto. I look up to my former physician as my very own father figure, to have met a person who has brought me so much closure, comfort, and guidance, I couldn't ask for anything better. I am pushing to enter the medical field to be able to implement this form of practice, to help people in ways more than what they came to the clinic for. To listen to the person that is sitting in front of me rather than treating their diagnosis alone. I am doing this for the people that are behind me. For anyone who has been a victim or for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. I want to be a role model for anyone who does not think it is possible to battle through adversity. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams.

The wilderness is where you would find most on an emotional getaway, whether that is the weekend in a cozy cabin in the mountains or maybe seeing the water underneath you as you glide your way through a pond in a canoe while feeling the warm, yet gentle sunlight against your skin. There are many reasons to be outside but why do so many people love it so much? Why do we find the great outdoors to be so relaxing? Evolution can attest to this for obvious reasons and our hormones come into play. For one who goes on a vacation or a day trip, for instance, they are ultimately seeking feelings of relief from the day to day stressors in their life, to a sense of belonging to something bigger, to experience wholeness with magnificent earth to which we belong to and rightfully call home. The great outdoors is known for its great adventures as one makes it. There are infinite journeys one could go on when in nature whether being acquainted with a group of beloved friends, a companion, or even alone. Nature serves us in so many ways as it brings us incredible views, a sense of innate security, and emotional health. Some may want to feel emotions that they may have never experienced before such as having a fear of heights, so they may go ziplining. Possibly, a newly married couple are celebrating their honeymoon, soaking up each other's presence. Or one could be digging deep inside themselves and nature is their aid in doing so. Being out in nature is not just a place where you get to experience feelings you never felt before, it also serves as a place where you can always come back and revisit those emotions of tranquility, liveliness, and peace if you so choose. Growing up, I lived in the mountains. From my experiences, I must say nature has been my best friend when I have gone through many hardships, our bond forever unbreakable. Throughout my life, I deeply connected with my surroundings. When little, my father, twin, and I have always spent our time outdoors by riding bicycles in trails that we have made in our woodland yard ourselves just for fun, potentially a project for later. Being with family and sharing the beautiful surroundings with the people I love, which so many take for granted was very blissful until that all changed. At the age of nine, my sister and I were abused by our father which led to his incarceration. My world was shattered. I felt numb for a long time afterward as many would say, until I revisited the only thing I ever truly felt connected to, the great outdoors. My twin and I remained close as we were all that we had. We spent our time hiking nature walks, changing up our camping traditions yet keeping them, and riding our bicycles in our yard routinely as we once had. We both noticed that these trails, we can make them our own. A few years later, we met someone in elementary school and we quickly became best friends, our past experiences similar. When we had our friend over to play, just as normal children would, we did not do the same activities our peers were doing. Instead, we all worked on creating even more trails which we then called "roads" our bicycles "cars". We constructed speed bumps with the help of earth's soil, made parking lots with the help of fallen logs, .. we even acted like we had deteriorated roads by adding potholes with a garden shovel to give a few of our "roads" the rustic vibe. We even got creative enough to get pieces of plywood, dig a narrow ditch in the dirt to create a gutter to then place the wood on top to act as a bridge that we would ride our bicycles ("cars") over. Not only did we do physical construction, but we also used our imagination to create a community. On many roads, we made public places such as an elementary school, a bank, an apartment complex, an ice skating rink. A restaurant, a mechanic shop, a post office. We also had a museum, a park, an animal shelter, a gym, a water park, and a car dealership. Not let me forget, we also each chose one large tree to call our house and then created driveways to them. So much imagination was seen on this piece of land. The actual street that we lived on, in our mind, is the highway in our little neighborhood. (our street in the real world was private - no one ever drove on it). Labeled by chalk or not, we had three designated lanes. The far left lane was for turning left only, the middle was for continuing straight and the far right was for turning right. We made roads that served as "ramps" and "exits" to enter our city, the one in our minds. Each of us playing may have had a different perspective of our town, but the thing is that, if we named a place to ride our bikes to, we all met at the same place. We were kids, playing, and using our imagination to make our new lives eventful, to forget what the past has done to us. We all connected with the earth and not just made it our home, but we escaped into our own world for a while. We felt safe, no one lived there but the three of us. In reality, several years later, we had to move to a new home. We lost our great city, our youth. If I were to go back to that property, I could easily give you a tour. It would mean so much. ( I have so much more to say, there is a word limit, my apologies).

In college, I want to study Exercise science and take all my other pre-requisites for medical school. Over the last three years, I have been determined to become an Orthopedic Surgeon, to carry on the legacy of my former physician. As a freshman in high school, I decided to play softball. At my last home game, I stole second base while I injured my knee. Thankfully enough, my mother was there and she brought me to the Emergency Room where X Rays were ordered. The Physician Assistant informed me that the images are not enough to confirm a diagnosis, that I must follow up with Columbia Memorial Bone and Joint Center. Later, I was introduced to my surgeon who informed me that I have torn my Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) and the surgery would be required. With my injury, surgery typically lasts about a year. Throughout this time, I was blown away by my physicians’ bedside manners. My physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but a person, a friend. My physician brought me so much safety and peace, something I did not have growing up, my father incarcerated. This made me determined to carry on his legacy of treating patients that they matter. Summer of 2019, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital in the following fields: Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, OBGYN, and Orthopedics. When working, I did not just shadow. After hours, I was putting together my own anatomical textbooks by learning medical terminology, drawing diagrams, and learning how to suture. This has led me to have very deep intellectual conversations with the doctors, nurses, and patients that I have come in contact with, my age being 15. While working at Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated and I was valued for my time that I dedicated to better enhance my experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. Summer of 2020, I was not allowed to return to my local hospital due to the pandemic. I was crushed. I then realized, with the amount of time I was granted, I can use it to my advantage. With the time given, I learned anatomy independently, such as the twelve cranial nerves, the thyroid gland, and its hormones, the kidney, the dural venous sinuses, and the neck muscles. Here, I put together two large binders of this information and more. With the amount of time at my fingertips, I am so beyond thankful for how I used it.

For as long as I can remember, I have been fighting. I have been pushing so hard to be heard and to be a role model, a voice for others. When I was little, I was sexually abused by my father. Since his incarceration, my mother was forced to seek work as was left on my own. I have felt what it is like to be hungry, cold, and hurt, to feel that no one wants to help you, you’re not loud enough. I know what it feels like to not feel safe going home when my next meal was. I had to learn how to cook on my own, with limited food choices, none nutritious. At school, no one wanted to be friends with the one who is poor. I had no one at home who could help me with my school work or to be my emotional backbone. To cope with these hardships, I got serious in middle school about my grades and my future. I had to fight for my education through my Individualized Education Program (IEP) by going into school half an hour early each day to get help on my math homework. I also refused to eat lunch all throughout middle school and some high school in order to get one-on-one help from teachers on my homework and other assignments. I also stayed after school to finish any homework that I was given throughout the school day. I had to do this because if I were to go home, I would be distracted. Although I was young and tired, I was fighting relentlessly to learn, get high grades, and improve my future. I was always close to my father before his incarceration. Before anything happened though, my twin sister and I used to play softball with him regularly. Several years later as a freshman in high school, I decided to try out for the team. While playing softball, I stole second base and injured my knee. I was brought to the Emergency Room where I was told X rays are not enough to confirm my diagnosis, that I must follow up with Columbia Memorial Bone and Joint Center. Two weeks later, I was introduced to an Orthopedic Surgeon who explained that I have torn my Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) and that surgery would be required to correct it. With my type of injury, recovery typically lasts about a year. Over this time, I was impressed with my physicians’ bedside manners. This doctor did not just treat me as a diagnosis but rather a person, a friend. From my ACL experience, I was blown away by how sweet my surgeon was. My surgeon was always there for me and the only one that was. My experience made me determined to carry on his legacy of treating patients that they matter. During the summer of 2019, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital in the following fields, Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, OBGYN, and Orthopedics. Here, I was granted the opportunity to watch my former surgeon operate and tend to patients as I firsthand witnessed his gentleness once again as this has heightened my desire in becoming an Orthopedic Surgeon myself. While working, I did not just shadow. After hours, I put together my own medical textbooks by researching anatomical diagrams, medical terminology, and pathology. This led me to have deep intellectual conversations with the doctors, nurses, and patents that I have come in contact with while being a 15 year old. While working at Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated and I was valued for my time that I dedicated to better enhance my experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. To look back and understand where I have come from, the journey that I had to go on independently to become strong in my education and to come to terms with my sense of self, has been quite a ride. It is incomprehensible to me that I was once going through the abuse and then right into spiritual recovery each day. Despite this, I have also been a patient and I have finally been heard, cared for, and valued. I know what unconditional love really means and I am so thankful for my injury for bringing me so much peace and direction. I would go back and go through my ACL experience a trillion times over. I have loved every single bit of what has happened during and after my injury and I am pushing so hard for the people that are behind me. For people that have been through anything similar to what I have, or for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. I want to be a role model for anyone who does not think it is possible to battle through adversity. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams.

From battling childhood hardships and an injury, using these to my advantage has catapulted me into redefining my future. Throughout my childhood, the bond my father and I shared was like no other. My twin and I have done many childhood activities with our dad such as camping, fishing, and hunting. I was only nine years old when I was abused by my father sexually, verbally, and domestically. Since his incarceration, this has led me to dig deep inside myself to discover my life's purpose. As a freshman in high school, I decided to play a sport, softball. At my last home game, I injured my knee. I was brought to the Emergency Room where I was told that X rays are not enough to confirm a diagnosis, that I must follow up with the Columbia Memorial Bone and Joint Center. Two weeks later, I was Introduced to my Orthopedic Surgeon which explained that I have torn my Anterior Cruciate ligament (ACL) and that surgery would be required to correct it. With my type of injury, recovery typically lasts a year. Over this time, I was impressed with my physicians besides manners. This doctor did not just treat me as a diagnosis but rather as a person, a friend. From my ACL experience, I was blown away by how sweet my physician was. This made me more determined to carry on his legacy of making patients feel that they matter. During the summer of 2019, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital in the following fields, Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, OBGYN, and Orthopedics. During my experience working at the hospital, I was valued. While working, I did not just shadow. After hours, I was putting together my own anatomical textbooks by learning medical terminology, drawing diagrams, and learning how to suture. This has led me to have very deep intellectual conversations with the doctors, nurses, and patients that I have come in contact with throughout the day, my age being 15. While working at Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated and I was valued for the time that I dedicated to better enhance my experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart From my volunteering experience, I have become even more driven into becoming an Orthopedic Surgeon. The year 2020 has been like no other, as I believe anyone can testify that has been the case. My year, on the other hand, has unfolded I must say very serendipitously. By being told that remote learning was the only option in March, I was more than happy to learn this way as I knew I could use the granted time to my full advantage. During the spring of 2020, I woke up at 4:00 am each day to study the twelve cranial nerves, the thyroid gland and its hormones, the kidney, the dural venous sinuses, and the neck muscles. Here, I put together two large binders of this information, with that not being all. From 7:30 am to 2:00 pm, I attended my high school classes through Google Meet. When remote learning was over, I went right back to learning anatomy. The salivary glands, the brain, the spleen, the lungs, compartment syndrome, foot muscles, the hand, and elbow anatomy. With all the time that I had at my fingertips, I decided to do more! I knew being a senior in high school, I was going to be enrolled in Advanced Placement Biology. From May through August, I put together three AP Biology binders as well as write in a biology textbook I ordered on Amazon. With all the work that I have thrown at myself, I realized that working around the clock and under pressure was something that I can actually do in a healthy way. That being said, I became close with two physicians via Instagram: Dr. Micheal Kortbus, an Otolaryngologist, and a Foot and Ankle Surgeon Dr. Sarah Haller. These two practicing physicians helped me and supported me when my own hospital team could not, by answering any medical questions that I had. In the summer of 2020, I was planning on returning to Columbia Memorial Hospital, but due to the pandemic restrictions, I was not allowed to return. This was very upsetting when I received the news, but how I spent my year, I am very proud of what I have done with my time. To look back and understand where I have come from, the journey that I had to go on independently to become strong in my education and to come to terms with my sense of self, has been quite a ride. It is incomprehensible to me that I was once going through the abuse and then right into spiritual recovery each day. Despite this, I have also been a patient and I have finally been heard, cared for, and valued. I know what unconditional love really means and I am so thankful for my injury for bringing me so much peace and direction. I would go back and go through my ACL experience a trillion times over. I have loved every single bit of what has happened during and after my injury and I am pushing so hard for the people that are behind me. For people that have been through anything similar to what I have, or for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. I want to be a role model for anyone who does not think it is possible to battle through adversity. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams.

Over the last three years, I have been determined to become an Orthopedic Surgeon, to carry on the legacy of my former physician. As a freshman in high school, I decided to play softball. At my last home game, I stole second base while I injured my knee. Thankfully enough, my mother was there and she brought me to the Emergency Room where X Rays were ordered. The Physician Assistant informed me that the images are not enough to confirm a diagnosis, that I must follow up with Columbia Memorial Bone and Joint Center. Later, I was introduced to my surgeon who informed me that I have torn my Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) and the surgery would be required. With my injury, surgery typically lasts about a year. Throughout this time, I was blown away by my physicians’ bedside manners. My physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but a person, a friend. My physician brought me so much safety and peace, something I did not have growing up, my father incarcerated. This made me determined to carry on his legacy of treating patients that they matter. During the summer of 2019, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital in the following fields: Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, OBGYN, and Orthopedics. When I was working, I did not just shadow. After hours, I was putting together my own anatomical textbooks by learning medical terminology, drawing diagrams, and learning how to suture. This has led me to have very deep intellectual conversations with the doctors, nurses, and patients that I have come in contact with, my age being 15. While working at Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated and I was valued for my time that I dedicated to better enhance my experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. Summer 2020, I was not allowed to return to my local hospital due to the pandemic. I was crushed. I then realized, with the amount of time I was granted, I can use it to my advantage. I started by waking up at four in the morning to learn anatomy independently such as the twelve cranial nerves, the thyroid gland, and its hormones, the kidney, the dural venous sinuses, and the neck muscles. Here, I put together two large binders of this information and more. I also still attended my high school classes. After remote learning, I went right back to learning anatomy. With all the time that I had at my fingertips, I am so proud for what I have done. Looking back, I am so beyond thankful for my injury, bringing me so much direction. The amount of unconditional love and support that I have received from my surgeon is truly something that I will forever hold onto. I look up to my surgeon as my very own father figure, to have met a person who has brought me so much comfort and guidance, I couldn't ask for anything better.

Over the last three years, I have been determined to become an Orthopedic Surgeon, to carry on the legacy of my former physician. As a freshman in high school, I decided to play softball. At my last home game, I stole second base while I injured my knee. Thankfully enough, my mother was there and she brought me to the Emergency Room where X Rays were ordered. The Physician Assistant informed me that the images are not enough to confirm a diagnosis, that I must follow up with Columbia Memorial Bone and Joint Center. Later, I was introduced to my surgeon who informed me that I have torn my Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) and the surgery would be required. With my injury, surgery typically lasts about a year. Throughout this time, I was blown away by my physicians’ bedside manners. My physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but a person, a friend. My physician brought me so much safety and peace, something I did not have growing up, my father incarcerated. This made me determined to carry on his legacy of treating patients that they matter. During the summer of 2019, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital in the following fields: Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, OBGYN, and Orthopedics. When working, I did not just shadow. After hours, I was putting together my own anatomical textbooks by learning medical terminology, drawing diagrams, and learning how to suture. This has led me to have very deep conversations with the doctors, nurses, and patients that I have come in contact with, my age being 15. While working at Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated and I was valued for my time that I dedicated to better enhance my experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. From my volunteering experience, I have become even more driven into becoming an Orthopedic Surgeon. The year 2020 has been like no other, as I believe anyone can testify that has been the case. My year on the other hand has unfolded I must say very serendipitously. By being told that remote learning was the only option in March, I was more than happy to learn this way as I knew I could use the granted time to my full advantage. During the spring of 2020, I woke up at 4:00 am each day to study the twelve cranial nerves, the thyroid gland and its hormones, the kidney, the dural venous sinuses, and the neck muscles. Here, I put together two large binders of this information, with that not being all. From 7:30am through 2:00pm, I attended my high school classes through Google Meet. When remote learning was over, I went right back to learning anatomy. The salivary glands, the brain, the spleen, the lungs, compartment syndrome, foot muscles, the hand, and elbow anatomy. With all the time that I had at my fingertips, I decided to do more! I knew being a senior in highschool, I was going to be enrolled in Advanced Placement Biology. From May through August, I put together three AP Biology binders as well as write in a biology textbook I ordered on Amazon. With all the work that I have thrown at myself, I realized that working around the clock and under pressure was something that I can actually do in a healthy way. That being said, I became close with two physicians via Instagram: Dr. Micheal Kortbus, an Otolaryngologist and a Foot and Ankle Surgeon Dr. Sarah Haller. These two practicing physicians helped me and supported me when my own hospital team could not, by answering any medical questions that I had. The summer of 2020, I was planning on returning to Columbia Memorial Hospital, but due to the pandemic restrictions, I was not allowed to return. This was very upsetting when I received the news, but how I spent my year, I am very proud of what I have done with my time. To look back and understand where I have come from, the journey that I had to go on independently to become strong in my education and to come to terms with my sense of self, has been quite a ride. It is incomprehensible to me that I was once going through the abuse and then right into spiritual recovery each day. Despite this, I have also been a patient and I have finally been heard, cared for, and valued. I know what unconditional love really means and I am so thankful for my injury for bringing me so much peace and direction. I would go back and go through my ACL experience a trillion times over. I have loved every single bit of what has happened during and after my injury and I am pushing so hard for the people that are behind me. For people that have been through anything similar to what I have, or for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. I want to be a role model for anyone who does not think it is possible to battle through adversity. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams.

Over the last three years, I have been determined to become an Orthopedic Surgeon, to carry on the legacy of my former physician. As a freshman in high school, I decided to play softball. At my last home game, I stole second base while I injured my knee. Thankfully enough, my mother was there and she brought me to the Emergency Room where X Rays were ordered. The Physician Assistant informed me that the images are not enough to confirm a diagnosis, that I must follow up with Columbia Memorial Bone and Joint Center. Later, I was introduced to my surgeon who informed me that I have torn my Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) and the surgery would be required. With my injury, surgery typically lasts about a year. Throughout this time, I was blown away by my physicians’ bedside manners. My physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but a person, a friend. My physician brought me so much safety and peace, something I did not have growing up, my father incarcerated. This made me determined to carry on his legacy of treating patients that they matter. During the summer of 2019, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital in the following fields: Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, OBGYN, and Orthopedics. When I was working, I did not just shadow. After hours, I was putting together my own anatomical textbooks by learning medical terminology, drawing diagrams, and learning how to suture. This has led me to have very deep intellectual conversations with the doctors, nurses, and patients that I have come in contact with, my age being 15. While working at Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated and I was valued for my time that I dedicated to better enhance my experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. Summer 2020, I was not allowed to return to my local hospital due to the pandemic. I was crushed. I then realized, with the amount of time I was granted, I can use it to my advantage. I started by waking up at four in the morning to learn anatomy independently such as the twelve cranial nerves, the thyroid gland and its hormones, the kidney, the dural venous sinuses, and the neck muscles. Here, I put together two large binders of this information and more. I also still attended my high school classes. After remote learning, I went right back to learning anatomy. With all the time that I had at my fingertips, I was so beyond thankful for what I have done. Looking back, I am so beyond thankful for my injury, bringing me so much direction. The amount of unconditional love and support that I have received from my surgeon is truly something that I will forever hold onto. I look up to my surgeon as my very own father figure, to have met a person who has brought me so much comfort and guidance, I couldn't ask for anything better.

What 15 year old do you know works at a hospital, seeing another’s guts and bones. Do you know any teen working at a hospital and taking someone's vitals, collecting urine samples, feeding patients, wheeling patients to the operating room, doing work that one with a degree would typically do? Yes, that was me. I had an experience that I hold close to my heart. When I was little, I was abused by my father which led to his incarceration. Before anything happened though, my twin sister and I used to play softball regularly with him. Five years later, as a freshman in high school, I decided to try out for the softball team. At my last home game, I injured my knee while stealing second base. I was brought to the Emergency Room, where I was told that X rays are not enough to confirm my diagnosis, that I must follow up with Columbia Memorial Bone and Joint Center. Two weeks later, I was sitting on the green gurney waiting to meet my doctor, to hear what I had done to my knee. There was a knock on the door and a man in a white lab coat entered the room, introduced himself, and shook my hand. At this appointment, I was informed that I have torn my Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL), that surgery is required to fix it, and that recovery typically lasts about a year. Over this time, I was blown away by how sweet my surgeon was to me. My physician did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but a person, a friend. He treated me as though I mattered. Over the course of my prep and rehabilitation, we have become very close. This made me determined to carry on his legacy of making patients feel that they matter. During the summer of 2019, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital in the following fields, Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, OBGYN, and Orthopedics. Here, I was granted to watch my former orthopedic surgeon operate and tend to patients as I first hand witnessed his gentleness once again. While working, I did not just shadow. After hours, I put together my own medical textbooks by researching anatomical structures, medical terminology, and pathology. While working at Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated and I was valued for my time that I dedicated to better enhance my experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart. I am beyond thankful to have had an injury which has brought me so much peace and direction. The amount of care and unconditional love that I have received from my surgeon is truly something that I will forever hold onto. I look up to my surgeon as my very own father figure, to have met a person who has brought me so much comfort, I couldn't ask for anything better.

For as long as I can remember, I have been fighting. I have been pushing so hard to be heard and to be a role model, a voice for others. When I was little, I was sexually abused by my father. Since his incarceration, my mother was forced to seek work as was left on my own. I have felt what it is like to be hungry, cold, and hurt, to feel that no one wants to help you, you’re not loud enough. I know what it feels like to not feel safe going home when my next meal was. I had to learn how to cook on my own, with limited food choices, none nutritious. At school, no one wanted to be friends with the one who is poor. I had no one at home who could help me with my school work or to be my emotional backbone. To cope with these hardships, I got serious in middle school about my grades and my future. I had to fight for my education through my Individualized Education Program (IEP) (A learning disability), by going into school half an hour early each day to get help on my math homework. I also refused to eat lunch all throughout middle school and some high school in order to get one-on-one help from teachers on my homework and other assignments. I also stayed after school to finish any homework that I was given throughout the school day. I had to do this because if I were to go home, I would be distracted. Although I was young and tired, I was fighting relentlessly to learn, get high grades, and improve my future. I was always close to my father before his incarceration. Before anything happened though, my twin sister and I used to play softball with him regularly. Several years later as a freshman in high school, I decided try out for the team. While playing softball, I stole second base and injured my knee. I was brought to the Emergency Room where I was told X rays are not enough to confirm my diagnosis, that I must follow up with Columbia Memorial Bone and Joint Center. Two weeks later, I was introduced to an Orthopedic Surgeon who explained that I have torn my Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) and that surgery would be required to correct it. With my type of injury, recovery typically lasts about a year. Over this time, I was impressed with my physicians’ bedside manners. This doctor did not just treat me as a diagnosis but rather a person, a friend. From my ACL experience, I was blown away by how sweet my surgeon was. My surgeon was always there for me and the only one that was. My experience made me determined to carry on his legacy of treating patients that they matter. During the summer of 2019, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital in the following fields, Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, OBGYN, and Orthopedics. Here, I was granted the opportunity to watch my former surgeon operate and tend to patients as I firsthand witnessed his gentleness once again as this has heightened my desire in becoming an Orthopedic Surgeon myself. While working, I did not just shadow. After hours, I put together my own medical textbooks by researching anatomical diagrams, medical terminology, and pathology. This led me to have deep intellectual conversations with the doctors, nurses, and patents that I have come in contact with while being a 15 year old. While working at Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated and I was valued for my time that I dedicated to better enhance my experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart.

When I was nine years old, I was sexually abused by my father. I have felt what it is like to be hungry, cold, and hurt. To feel that no one wants to help you, you're not loud enough. I know what it feels like to not feel safe going home when my next meal was. I know what it is like to be left home alone when a parent goes to work, learning to cook, and not being taught- limited food choices, none nutritious. I have also been a patient and I DO know what it is like to be heard, cared for, and valued. I know what unconditional love really means and I am so thankful for my injury for bringing me so much peace and direction. Before anything happened traumatic happened, my twin sister and I often played softball with our father regularly. Several years later as a freshman in high school, I stole second base and injured my knee. I was brought to the Emergency Room where I was told X rays are not enough to confirm my diagnosis, that I must follow up with Columbia Memorial Bone and Joint Center. I was introduced to an orthopedic surgeon who explained that I have torn my Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) and that surgery would be required to correct it. With my type of injury, recovery typically lasts about a year. Over this time, I was impressed with this physicians' bedside manners. This doctor did not just treat me as a diagnosis but rather a person, a friend. From my ACL journey, I was blown away by how sweet my surgeon was. This made me determined to carry on his legacy of treating patients feel that they matter. During the summer of 2019, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital in the following fields: Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, OBGYN, and Orthopedics. While working at the hospital, I did not just shadow. After hours, I was putting together my own anatomical textbooks by learning medical terminology, drawing diagrams, and learning how to suture. This has led me to have very deep intellectual conversations with the doctors, nurses, and patients that I have come in contact with, my age being 15. While working at Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated and I was valued for my time that I dedicated to better enhance my experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart.

I have felt what it is like to be hungry, cold, and hurt. To feel that no one wants to help you, you’re not loud enough. I know what it feels like to not feel safe going home, when my next meal was. I know what it is like to be left home alone when a parent goes to work, learning to cook on my own, and not being taught - limited food choices, none nutritious. While in middle school, I was left to fight for myself when my mother was forced to seek employment. In school, I got serious about my grades and my future. I had to fight for my education through my Individualized Education Program (IEP) by going into school half an hour early each day to get help with my math homework. I also refused to eat lunch daily to work with teachers one on one routinely. I had to do this because if I were to go home, I would become distracted. Although I was young and tired, I was fighting relentlessly to learn, get high grades, and to improve my future. Not only was I exhausted from pushing myself so hard, I have also been optimistic for the future I have been working so diligently towards. Five years later as a freshman in high school, I decided to play a sport, softball. At my last home game, I heard a “pop” in my knee and was brought to the Emergency Room. I was told that I must follow up with the Columbia Memorial Bone and Joint Center. Here, I was introduced to my orthopedic surgeon who explained that I tore my Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) and that surgery would be required to fix it. My recovery typically lasts about a year. Throughout my ACL Journey, I was impressed with my physician's bedside manners and was blown away by how sweet he has been to me. This doctor did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but a patient, a friend. This made me determined to carry on his legacy of making patients feel that they matter. During the summer of 2019, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital in the following fields: Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, OBGYN, and Orthopedics. When I was working, I did not just shadow. After hours, I was putting together my own anatomical textbooks by learning medical terminology, drawing diagrams, and learning how to suture. This has led me to have very deep intellectual conversations with the doctors, nurses, and patients that I have come in contact with, my age being 15. While working at Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated and I was valued for my time that I dedicated to better enhance my experience. The hospital became my new home, my heart.

From battling childhood hardships from being sexually abused, growing up with a single mother, to an injury, I have used all of these experiences to redefine myself and my future. Throughout my experience, I have felt what it is like to be hungry, cold, and hurt. To feel that no one wants to help you, you’re not loud enough. I know what it feels like to not feel safe going home when my next meal was. I know what it is like to be left home alone when a parent goes to work, learning to cook, and not being taught - limited food choices, none nutritious. While in middle school, I was left to fight for myself when my mother was forced to seek employment. In school, I got serious about my grades and my future. I had to fight for my education through my Individualized Education Program (IEP) by going into school half an hour early each day to get help with my math homework. I also refused to eat lunch daily to work with teachers one on one routinely. I had to do this because if I were to go home, I would become distracted. Although I was young and tired, I was fighting relentlessly to learn, get high grades, and to improve my future. Not only was I exhausted from pushing myself so hard, I have also been optimistic for the future I have been working so diligently towards. Five years later as a freshman in high school, I decided to play a sport, softball as this is what my family played regularly. At my last home game, I stole second base as I heard a “pop” in my knee wondering when the pain would come. My leg was locked but could not feel anything. I tried to stand up but couldn’t. I was brought to the Emergency Room where X Rays were ordered. The Physician Assistant informed me that the images are not enough to confirm a diagnosis, that I must follow up with the Columbia Memorial Bone and Joint Center. Two weeks later, I was sitting on a green gurney waiting to meet my doctor. There was a knock on the door and a man in a white lab coat walked in. I was introduced to my surgeon as we shook hands. During my appointment, I was informed that I tore my Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) and that surgery would be required to fix it. My recovery typically lasts about a year. Over this time we became very close as I put all my trust into my surgeon's hands. This doctor did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but a patient, a friend. June 24, 2019 I was in the clinic, my very last post-op appointment. I remember having a repeating question keep popping into my head, “What if I never see my favorite doctor again”? I did not know how to answer that question yet, I did not know if that was it. I was interrupted by my surgeon's signature knock as he entered the room. We talked about my surgery and how well I handled it, until we shook hands once again, this time for a different purpose. While I was walking to the parking lot, I was having thoughts such as, “ How could we have come so far and leave it there? There must be more to our doctor-patient relationship than this”. Soon enough it clicked. I was determined to carry on his legacy of making patients feel that they matter. During the summer of 2019, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital in the following fields: Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, OBGYN, and Orthopedics. When I was working, I did not just shadow. After hours, I was putting together my own anatomical textbooks by learning medical terminology, drawing diagrams, and learning how to suture. This has led me to have very deep intellectual conversations with the doctors, nurses, and patients that I have come in contact with, my age being 15. While working at Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated, not only that but, I was heard, cared for, and valued. The hospital became my new home, my heart. From my volunteering experience, I have become even more driven into becoming an Orthopedic Surgeon. To look back and understand where I have come from, the journey that I had to go on independently to become strong in my education and to come to terms with my sense of self, has been quite a ride. It is incomprehensible to me that I was once going through the abuse and then right into spiritual recovery each day. Despite this, I have also been a patient and I have finally been heard, cared for, and valued. I know what unconditional love really means and I am so thankful for my injury for bringing me so much peace and direction. I would go back and go through my ACL experience a trillion times over. I have loved every single bit of what has happened during and after my injury and I am pushing so hard for the people that are behind me. For people that have been through anything similar to what I have, or for women who may not feel confident enough to enter a masculine profession. I want to be a role model for anyone who does not think it is possible to battle through adversity. No matter your circumstances and age, you can rise again if you follow your dreams.

From hearing people say that they are afraid of needles, going to the doctors, seeking medical care; It's upsetting that some fear getting help or their own health, survival. People go years with a condition and their symptoms get worse because they feel as though the doctor will shame them for such an illness or condition. These fears shall be no more and as a society, we must understand that a physician and medical care providers are humans too and all they want to do is see you happy, healthy, lively, and enjoying life pain-free. No patient shall ever feel inferior to a doctor but as if they are friends. 2019 has been a year of physical rehab and intellectual growth for me. My definition of summer was changed. The year prior, I had a knee injury which required an immense amount of my attention. During my Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) journey, I researched my condition and learned the anatomy, tended to my knee by icing daily, increasing range of motion steadily, and going to physical therapy routinely. Seven months of 2018, the sole focus was preparing for ACL reconstruction surgery. I had to wait this long because my growth plates were still open, which if I had surgery before they were closed, deficits could arise. Through my ACL journey, I was accompanied by such a sweet surgeon that did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but an actual person, a friend. He treated me as if I mattered. This doctor was like no other. During my lengthy prep and rehabilitation process, we became very close. Recovery typically lasts about a year when one undergoes an ACL reconstruction surgery, even though I had to wait countless months before my operation. Finally the day we’ve both been waiting for has come. I remember pulling into the hospitals’ parking lot, as the snow fell in slow motion. I felt safe. I have put all my trust in my surgeon’s hands. Little did I know that my journey was not going to end there. Getting surgery did not mean happily ever after. Going in for my very last post-op appointment, I sat on a green gurney as once did last spring. This time I was scared. I kept having a repeating question popping into my head, “What if I never see my favorite doctor again”? I did not know how to answer that question, yet I did not know if this was it. I was interrupted by my doctor's signature knock on the door as he entered the room. We talked about my surgery and how well I have handled it, until we shook hands again, this time for a different purpose. While walking out of the clinic, I asked myself another question, “How could we have come so far to leave it there? There must be more to our doctor-patient relationship than this.” Suddenly it clicked. I was determined to carry on the legacy of my former physician, to follow in his footsteps, and to treat patients as they matter. During the summer of 2019, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital in the following fields: Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, OBGYN, and Orthopedics. While I was working, I did not just shadow. After hours, I put together my own anatomical textbooks by learning medical terminology, drawing diagrams, and learning how to suture. This led me to have very deep intellectual conversations with the doctors, nurses, and patients that I have come in contact with while being just 15 year old. At Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated not only that but I was heard, cared for, and valued. The hospital became my new home, my heart. To look at my scars from the operation, to cherish the incisions as a pivotal moment in my life, I am more than ready to embark on such a journey. Being a medical professional is a very high place to be in society due to its responsibility. To be given this very delicate mission, my biggest goal as a physician is to treat people in the way you wanted to be treated. From my own personal experience, I must say when my doctor showed me what unconditional love really means, this made me feel valued, and everyone should feel that way.

2019 has been a year of physical rehab and intellectual growth for me. My definition of summer was changed. The year prior, I had a knee injury which required an immense amount of my attention. During my Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) journey, I researched my condition and learned the anatomy, tended to my knee by icing daily, increasing range of motion steadily, and going to physical therapy routinely. Seven months of 2018, the sole focus was preparing for ACL reconstruction surgery. I had to wait this long because my growth plates were still open, which if I had surgery before they were closed, deficits could arise. Through my ACL journey, I was accompanied by such a sweet surgeon that did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but an actual person, a friend. He treated me as if I mattered. This doctor was like no other. During my lengthy prep and rehabilitation process, we became very close. Recovery typically lasts about a year when one undergoes an ACL reconstruction surgery, even though I had to wait countless months before my operation. Finally the day we’ve both been waiting for has come. I remember pulling into the hospitals’ parking lot, as the snow fell in slow motion. I felt safe. I have put all my trust in my surgeon’s hands. Little did I know that my journey was not going to end there. Getting surgery did not mean happily ever after. Going in for my very last post-op appointment, I sat on a green gurney as once did last spring. This time I was scared. I kept having a repeating question popping into my head, “What if I never see my favorite doctor again”? I did not know how to answer that question, yet I did not know if this was it. I was interrupted by my doctor's signature knock on the door as he entered the room. We talked about my surgery and how well I have handled it, until we shook hands again, this time for a different purpose. While walking out of the clinic, I asked myself another question, “How could we have come so far to leave it there? There must be more to our doctor-patient relationship than this.” Suddenly it clicked. I was determined to carry on the legacy of my former physician, to follow in his footsteps, and to treat patients as they matter. During the summer of 2019, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital in the following fields: Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, OBGYN, and Orthopedics. While I was working, I did not just shadow. After hours, I put together my own anatomical textbooks by learning medical terminology, drawing diagrams, and learning how to suture. This led me to have very deep intellectual conversations with the doctors, nurses, and patients that I have come in contact with while being just 15 year old. At Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated not only that but I was heard, cared for, and valued. The hospital became my new home, my heart. To look at my scars from the operation, to cherish the incisions as a pivotal moment in my life, I am more than ready to embark on such a journey. Being a medical professional is a very high place to be in society due to its responsibility. To be given this very delicate mission, my biggest goal as a physician is to treat people in the way you wanted to be treated. From my own personal experience, I must say when my doctor showed me what unconditional love really means, this made me feel valued, and everyone should feel that way.

From battling childhood hardships and an injury, using these to my advantage has catapulted me into redefining my future. Throughout my childhood, the bond my father and I shared was like no other. My twin and I have done many childhood activities with our dad such as camping, fishing, and hunting. I was only nine years old when I was abused by my father sexually, verbally, and domestically. Since his incarceration, this has led me to dig deep inside myself to discover my life's purpose. Throughout my experience, I have felt what it is like to be hungry, cold, and hurt. To feel that no one wants to help you, you’re not loud enough. I know what it feels like to not feel safe going home, when my next meal was. While in middle school, I was left to fight for myself when my mother was forced to seek employment. In school, I got serious about my grades and my future. I had to fight for my education through my Individualized Education Program (IEP) by going into school half an hour early each day to get help with my math homework. I also refused to eat lunch daily to work with teachers one on one routinely. I had to do this because if I were to go home, I would become distracted. Although I was young and tired, I was fighting relentlessly to learn, get high grades, and to improve my future. Five years later as a freshman in high school, while playing softball , I stole second base as I heard a “pop” wondering when the pain would come. My leg was locked but could not feel anything. I tried to stand up but couldn’t. The Umpire asked if I needed help. I said, “ I think I dislocated my knee”. The umpire and my coach carried me to the dugout. My teammates had worried expressions on their faces, as I remained calm. Thankfully enough, my mother was there and she brought me to the Emergency Room where X Rays were ordered. The Physician Assistant informed me that the images are not enough to confirm a diagnosis, that I must follow up with the Columbia Memorial Bone and Joint Center. Two weeks later, I was sitting on a green gurney waiting to meet my doctor. There was a knock on the door and a man in a white lab coat walked in. I was introduced to my surgeon as we shook hands. During my appointment, I was informed that I tore my Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) and that surgery would be required to fix it. My recovery typically lasts about a year. Throughout my ACL Journey, I was impressed with my physician's bedside manners and was blown away by how sweet he has been to me. This doctor did not just treat me as a diagnosis, but a patient, a friend. June 24, 2019, I was in the clinic, my very last post-op appointment. I remember having a repeating question keep popping into my head, “What if I never see my favorite doctor again”? I did not know how to answer that question yet, I did not know if that was it. I was interrupted by my surgeon's signature knock as he entered the room. We talked about my surgery and how well I handled it, until we shook hands once again, this time for a different purpose. While I was walking to the parking lot, I was having thoughts such as, “ How could we have come so far and leave it there? There must be more to our doctor-patient relationship than this”. Soon enough it clicked. I was determined to carry on his legacy of making patients feel that they matter. During the summer of 2019, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital in the following fields: Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, OBGYN, and Orthopedics. When I was working, I did not just shadow. After hours, I was putting together my own anatomical textbooks by learning medical terminology, drawing diagrams, and learning how to suture. This has led me to have very deep intellectual conversations with the doctors, nurses, and patients that I have come in contact with, my age being 15. While working at Columbia Memorial Hospital, my work was appreciated, not only that but, I was heard, cared for, and valued. The hospital became my new home, my heart.

A moment I will never forget was my last softball game I have ever had. I went to go steal second base until my leg came out from under me. I was confused why I did not feel no pain. I tried to get up but I fell to the grown. The umpire and my coach helped me off the field. Later I was in the emergency room where I was told that the X rays are not enough to confirm a diagnosis. I must follow up with Columbia Memorial Bone and Joint Center. I was sitting on a green gurney waiting to meet my doctor. There was a knock on the door and a man in a white lab coat enters the room. I was introduced to my surgeon as he says, I have torn my Anterior Crucial Ligament (ACL) and I would need to undergo surgery. My surgeon and I had held many discussions whether surgery was the best option for me since I am active and still very young. During my ACL experience, I was blown away by my doctors sweetest bedside manners. A year after surgery, I decided to volunteer at my local hospital in Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General surgery, OBGYN, and Orthopedics. The amount of support and recognition I have received on my journey in becoming a physician has further enhanced my decision in becoming an Orthopedic Surgeon.

At the age of 15, I have volunteered at my local hospital - Columbia Memorial Hospital in the following fields: Ambulatory Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, General surgery, OBGYN, PACU, and Orthopedics. Below you will see pictures of my experience, one that I will never forget. The reason I choose to volunteer can be seen in my BIO.