Growing up as the second oldest of five siblings, I often found myself balancing responsibilities far beyond my years. When my older sister struggled with severe mental health challenges, I stepped in to protect her—even preventing her from taking her own life twice. While my parents focused on her care, I took on the role of stabilizer for my younger siblings. These experiences revealed the profound impact of trauma on mental, emotional, and physical well-being and instilled in me values of empathy, resilience, and service. My name is Kalena Xiong, and I am an incoming student at the University of Wisconsin–La Crosse, where I plan to major in psychology on the pre-medicine track. My goal is to become a pediatrician with a strong focus on mental health, supporting children not only physically but also emotionally and mentally. These lessons carried into my professional experiences as an Assistant Child Care Teacher through my high school’s Youth Apprenticeship Program. Working with young children, I witnessed firsthand how creating a safe, supportive environment can shape a child’s development. I learned that wellness encompasses more than physical health; it includes emotional security, confidence, and trust. Seeing the difference consistent care and attention made in a child’s life confirmed my commitment to pursuing a career in pediatrics with a foundation in psychology. As a woman of Hmong descent entering medicine, I represent less than 1% of U.S. physicians, highlighting the underrepresentation of my community in healthcare. Representation matters, and I want to show younger generations that they too can pursue careers in medicine and mental health. By mentoring, advocating, and sharing my experiences, I hope to inspire others from underrepresented communities to follow their aspirations and continue increasing the odds in fields where diversity is limited. Empathy is central to the physician I aspire to become. It means seeing beyond symptoms to understand the whole person, acknowledging their fears, histories, and strengths. From my family experiences to my professional work with children, I have learned that empathy can transform lives. As a pediatrician, I will lead with empathy, practicing trauma-informed care and advocating for systems that support families’ mental, emotional, and physical well-being. I am committed not only to individual care but also to creating community impact. I plan to volunteer in schools and community centers, provide mental health education, and mentor young students interested in healthcare careers. By showing them that their experiences and backgrounds are strengths, I hope to empower a new generation of diverse healthcare professionals. Through my personal journey, professional experiences, and dedication to service, I aim to make a meaningful impact on my community. I want to inspire hope, resilience, and healing in children, and to help future generations continue to break barriers and increase representation in medicine.

My Christian faith is the foundation of who I am and the way I lead. It has taught me that leadership is not about control or recognition, but about service, humility, and reflecting God’s love through my actions. I believe that I am so blessed to be where I am today, and I know this is all God’s doing. My journey—both the challenges and the blessings—has unfolded in God’s timing, and I trust that pursuing medicine is part of His plan for my life. One of the clearest examples of my faith shaping my leadership came during my older sister’s struggles with mental health. Twice, I had to step in during her suicide attempts, moments no child should ever have to face. At the same time, I took care of my younger siblings when my parents were consumed with her needs. Those experiences were overwhelming, but my faith carried me through. I held onto prayer, trusting that God had a plan even in the hardest moments. Leading my family through that season taught me that God equips us for the roles He calls us to, even when they feel far beyond our strength. Through this, I learned that leadership often means being a vessel for God’s love in someone else’s life. It is about showing patience, compassion, and sacrifice, even when it is not easy. My faith gave me the courage to step into responsibilities that shaped me into the person I am today. I have also seen my faith influence the way I serve outside my family. As an Assistant Child Care Teacher, I cared for young children during important stages of their development. I tried to reflect God’s love by treating each child with patience, kindness, and encouragement. Similarly, in my volunteer work at Sunshine Place and Red Cross blood drives, I approached every task with the mindset that serving others is a way of serving Christ. Scripture reminds me, “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me” (Matthew 25:40). That verse inspires me to lead with a heart of service in all I do. Looking ahead, my faith gives me a clear vision for my future. I plan to become a pediatrician with a foundation in psychology so that I can care for children not only physically, but also emotionally and mentally. I believe God has placed this calling on my life, and I trust His timing as I prepare for it. My prayer is that I will be able to reflect Christ’s compassion in every patient interaction, creating spaces where children and families feel seen, valued, and supported. Ultimately, my Christian faith shapes my leadership by grounding me in gratitude and humility. I know that every step of my journey has been guided by God, and I believe He is preparing me to make a difference in healthcare. My hope is to use my career not just as a profession, but as a calling to serve others in a way that glorifies Him.

My journey toward a career in healthcare has been shaped by both hardship and hope. As the second oldest of five siblings, I grew up carrying responsibilities that many children my age never had to face. My older sister struggled with severe mental health challenges, and during some of her lowest moments, I was the one who stepped in to protect her—even preventing her from taking her own life twice. While my parents were consumed by her struggles, I cared for my younger siblings, doing my best to provide them with stability and comfort. These challenges forced me to grow up quickly, but they also gave me resilience, empathy, and a unique understanding of the ways trauma affects not only an individual but also an entire family. I learned that health is not just physical—it is deeply connected to mental and emotional well-being. I also learned that compassion can be powerful, whether it comes from a family member, a mentor, or a healthcare provider. These experiences became the foundation of my dream to pursue medicine. In high school, I carried these lessons into the opportunities I pursued. Through my school’s Youth Apprenticeship Program, I worked as an Assistant Child Care Teacher, where I nurtured and guided children during critical stages of development. This experience confirmed for me that safe and supportive environments are essential for children to thrive. I also volunteered at Sunshine Place, helping families in need access food and resources, and with the Red Cross, where I assisted at blood drives. These roles showed me that healthcare extends beyond the doctor’s office or hospital—it means addressing the social, emotional, and physical needs of people in our communities. Along the way, I was fortunate to have mentors who believed in me. My AP U.S. History teacher, Mr. Barth, encouraged me during a time when I doubted myself, reminding me of the difference one caring adult can make. His support inspired me to carry that same belief and encouragement into my future career. I plan to become a pediatrician with a strong foundation in psychology. I want to practice trauma-informed care, which recognizes that behind every symptom there is a story, and behind every child there is a need for safety, trust, and compassion. My hope is to create healthcare spaces where children feel seen and understood, and where families receive the support they need to heal and grow. Ultimately, the challenges I faced gave me more than pain—they gave me purpose. They taught me that empathy is just as important as medicine, and that resilience and advocacy can change lives. Through a career in healthcare, I hope to use my story to connect with others, offer hope, and make a lasting impact on the well-being of children and families.

Every experience shapes who we become, and the challenges I have faced have shaped not only my character, but also my passion for medicine. Growing up as the second oldest of five siblings, I often found myself in the role of caretaker. My older sister battled severe mental health challenges, and I stepped in to protect and support her during some of the darkest moments, even preventing her from taking her own life twice. While my parents were consumed with her struggles, I cared for my younger siblings, trying to provide them with stability and comfort. These experiences forced me to grow up quickly, but they also gave me resilience, empathy, and a deep understanding of the importance of mental health. From these challenges, I learned that health is never just physical—it is emotional, mental, and relational as well. Watching my sister struggle showed me the ripple effects of untreated trauma, not just on her, but on our entire family. At the same time, I discovered the power of compassion. A kind word, a listening ear, or simply being present can create hope when it feels like none is left. These lessons became the foundation of my decision to pursue a career in medicine. During high school, I was able to channel these lessons into real-world experiences. Through my school’s Youth Apprenticeship Program, I worked as an Assistant Child Care Teacher, supporting children through their early years of growth and development. I saw firsthand how safe, nurturing environments shape not just learning, but also emotional well-being. I also volunteered at Sunshine Place, where I assisted families in need, and at Red Cross blood drives, where I supported donors through the process. These experiences confirmed for me that healthcare is more than science—it is about meeting people where they are, understanding their challenges, and offering care that values the whole person. Because of my personal experiences, I want to become a pediatrician with a strong background in psychology. My goal is to practice trauma-informed care, which recognizes the impact of a child’s past experiences on their current health. I want to create spaces where children feel safe, heard, and respected, so they can begin to heal not only physically, but also emotionally. I know from my own family’s struggles that one supportive adult can make an enormous difference in a child’s life. I hope to be that person for the patients I serve. The challenges I faced were not easy, but they gave me purpose. They taught me the importance of empathy, resilience, and advocacy—values that will guide me in my career. I believe these experiences will allow me to connect more deeply with patients, treat them with compassion, and ensure that my care is always human-centered. By turning my challenges into a driving force, I am committed to making a positive impact in healthcare and improving the lives of children and families.

My name is Kalena Xiong, and I recently graduated from Sun Prairie West High School. This fall, I will attend the University of Wisconsin–La Crosse, where I plan to major in psychology on the pre-medicine track. My ultimate goal is to become a pediatrician with a strong foundation in mental health so that I can support children not only physically, but also emotionally and mentally. During my high school years, I gained a deep and personal understanding of the importance of mental health. Growing up as the second oldest of five siblings, I often took on the role of caretaker. My older sister struggled with severe mental health challenges, and there were moments when I had to step in to protect her—even preventing her from taking her own life twice. While my parents were focused on her needs, I shouldered the responsibility of caring for my younger siblings, offering them stability during uncertain times. These experiences were heavy for me as a teenager, but they opened my eyes to how deeply mental health affects every part of life—relationships, family dynamics, and even physical well-being. From these challenges, I learned that mental health is not something to overlook or push aside. I saw how stigma and silence can make struggles even harder, and how crucial it is to talk openly about mental well-being. I also learned that small acts of support can make a huge difference—whether it is listening without judgment, offering encouragement, or simply being present. One caring adult, teacher, or friend can change someone’s outlook and even save a life. For me, that person was my AP U.S. History teacher, Mr. Barth. During a time when I doubted myself, he believed in me and gave me the confidence to keep going. His compassion showed me that mental health support doesn’t always come from a professional—it can come from anyone who takes the time to care. In addition to my personal experiences, I had the opportunity to work as an Assistant Child Care Teacher through my school’s Youth Apprenticeship Program. This role allowed me to nurture and guide young children during important developmental years. I saw how essential it is for children to feel safe, valued, and supported, especially if they come from difficult home environments. This confirmed for me that mental health care must start early, and that creating safe spaces for children can positively shape the rest of their lives. As I move forward, I will carry these lessons into my education and future career. I want to be a pediatrician who practices trauma-informed care—someone who understands the experiences behind a child’s behavior or condition, not just the symptoms. I believe that addressing mental health alongside physical health is key to true healing. My goal is to create environments where children feel seen and understood, and to provide families with the resources and encouragement they need to thrive. Ultimately, what I learned about mental health in high school is that it is a cornerstone of wellness. It is just as vital as physical health, and caring for one without the other is incomplete. These lessons have shaped me into someone who values empathy, resilience, and advocacy, and they inspire my passion to dedicate my life to human health and wellness.

Growing up as the second oldest of five siblings, I often found myself in the role of caretaker. When my older sister struggled deeply with her mental health, I stepped in to protect her—even preventing her from taking her own life twice. While my parents focused on her needs, I took on responsibilities far beyond my years. This experience exposed me to the lasting impact of trauma on mental health, emotional well-being, and family dynamics. Instead of breaking me, these challenges instilled values of empathy, resilience, and service. I developed a strong desire to create stability for others, especially children, who are often the most vulnerable. This passion carried into my professional role as an Assistant Child Care Teacher, where I nurtured children’s growth and saw firsthand the importance of safe, supportive environments. These experiences, combined with the encouragement of mentors like my AP U.S. History teacher, Mr. Barth, shaped my goal of becoming a pediatrician with a background in psychology. I want to dedicate my life to supporting children’s physical, emotional, and mental health. My journey has taught me that health and wellness are not just medical outcomes, but the foundation of hope and healing. To me, empathy means seeing beyond symptoms or struggles to truly understand the human being in front of you. It is listening deeply, meeting others where they are, and offering compassion without judgment. Empathy is not simply a feeling—it is an action that builds trust and creates the foundation for healing. I learned the importance of empathy early in life. As the second oldest of five siblings, I grew up balancing the responsibilities of caretaker and protector. My older sister’s battles with mental health forced me into situations no child should face, including stepping in during her suicide attempts. Carrying that weight was difficult, but it revealed the profound effect trauma has on mental, emotional, and physical health. More importantly, it taught me the power of presence. Sometimes, what saves someone is not a solution, but the comfort of being seen and supported. This value carried into my professional experiences. At 17, I became an Assistant Child Care Teacher, nurturing young children through their critical developmental years. I learned that small acts—like listening, encouraging, or offering a safe space—can make a significant impact. Every child who entered my classroom reminded me that wellness goes beyond physical health; it includes feeling secure, valued, and understood. As a future pediatrician with a foundation in psychology, empathy will guide every patient interaction. Children who face illness or trauma need more than medicine—they need a doctor who acknowledges their fears, respects their voice, and treats them as whole people. I plan to practice trauma-informed care, which considers the experiences behind a child’s behavior or condition, rather than only the symptoms. This approach ensures that my care will always remain human-centered. I also believe empathy extends beyond individual interactions. It means advocating for better systems of care and addressing disparities that prevent children and families from accessing the support they deserve. My experiences volunteering with organizations like Sunshine Place and Red Cross Blood Drives deepened this perspective. Serving families in need reinforced my belief that healthcare must also address the social and emotional barriers to wellness. Empathy, to me, is both personal and professional. It is rooted in my own story, strengthened by my work with children, and central to the physician I aspire to become. By leading with empathy, I will not only treat illnesses but also help build resilience, hope, and healing in the lives of the children I serve.

Trauma in early childhood doesn’t just leave scars—it shapes futures. Growing up as the second oldest of five siblings, I learned this truth firsthand. From a young age, I was thrust into the role of caretaker—not only for my three younger siblings but also for my older sister and parents during some of our hardest times. My older sister struggled deeply with mental health, and I found myself stepping in to protect her, even preventing her from taking her own life twice. While my parents were consumed by her struggles, I carried a weight far beyond what any child should bear. This experience taught me early on about the profound consequences childhood trauma can have—on mental health, emotional stability, and family dynamics. Children who experience trauma often face challenges in trust, emotional regulation, and forming healthy relationships. The burden of trauma can hinder their development in ways that ripple throughout their lives. I lived this reality. Yet through those difficult years, I discovered a deep empathy and a fierce desire to protect and support children who might be enduring similar pain. My personal experience drives my commitment to being a source of stability and care for children. At 17, I was offered a role as an Assistant Teacher at Country Creek Learning Center—a dream opportunity that allowed me to nurture young minds and hearts. There, I realized how crucial it is for children to feel safe, understood, and valued. It reinforced my goal of becoming a pediatrician with a foundation in psychology, so I can address the full spectrum of a child’s needs—physical, emotional, and mental. Trauma-informed care isn’t just a concept for me; it’s a calling born from lived experience. My hope is to create environments where children who have faced trauma feel seen and supported. As a pediatrician, I want to offer more than medical treatment—I want to build trust, offer compassion, and advocate for healing. Early intervention can change the trajectory of a child’s life, and I am determined to be part of that healing process. I also think about the impact of one caring adult. Throughout my journey, my AP United States History teacher, Mr. Barth, believed in me when I struggled to believe in myself. His support planted a seed of confidence and hope that continues to inspire me today. Just as he lifted me up, I want to be that person for the children I care for. In conclusion, early childhood trauma can have lasting consequences, but with empathy, support, and dedicated care, healing is possible. My personal story fuels my passion and guides my path forward—to become a pediatrician who not only heals bodies but also nurtures hearts and minds.

Trauma in early childhood doesn’t just leave scars—it shapes futures. Growing up as the second oldest of five siblings, I learned this truth firsthand. From a young age, I was thrust into the role of caretaker—not only for my three younger siblings but also for my older sister and parents during some of our hardest times. My older sister struggled deeply with mental health, and I found myself stepping in to protect her, even preventing her from taking her own life twice. While my parents were consumed by her struggles, I carried a weight far beyond what any child should bear. This experience taught me early on about the profound consequences childhood trauma can have—on mental health, emotional stability, and family dynamics. Children who experience trauma often face challenges in trust, emotional regulation, and forming healthy relationships. The burden of trauma can hinder their development in ways that ripple throughout their lives. I lived this reality. Yet through those difficult years, I discovered a deep empathy and a fierce desire to protect and support children who might be enduring similar pain. My personal experience drives my commitment to being a source of stability and care for children. At 17, I was offered a role as an Assistant Teacher at Country Creek Learning Center—a dream opportunity that allowed me to nurture young minds and hearts. There, I realized how crucial it is for children to feel safe, understood, and valued. It reinforced my goal of becoming a pediatrician with a foundation in psychology, so I can address the full spectrum of a child’s needs—physical, emotional, and mental. Trauma-informed care isn’t just a concept for me; it’s a calling born from lived experience. My hope is to create environments where children who have faced trauma feel seen and supported. As a pediatrician, I want to offer more than medical treatment—I want to build trust, offer compassion, and advocate for healing. Early intervention can change the trajectory of a child’s life, and I am determined to be part of that healing process. I also think about the impact of one caring adult. Throughout my journey, my AP United States History teacher, Mr. Barth, believed in me when I struggled to believe in myself. His support planted a seed of confidence and hope that continues to inspire me today. Just as he lifted me up, I want to be that person for the children I care for. In conclusion, early childhood trauma can have lasting consequences, but with empathy, support, and dedicated care, healing is possible. My personal story fuels my passion and guides my path forward—to become a pediatrician who not only heals bodies but also nurtures hearts and minds.

Trauma in early childhood doesn’t just leave scars—it shapes futures. Growing up as the second oldest of five siblings, I learned this truth firsthand. From a young age, I was thrust into the role of caretaker—not only for my three younger siblings but also for my older sister and parents during some of our hardest times. My older sister struggled deeply with mental health, and I found myself stepping in to protect her, even preventing her from taking her own life twice. While my parents were consumed by her struggles, I carried a weight far beyond what any child should bear. This experience taught me early on about the profound consequences childhood trauma can have—on mental health, emotional stability, and family dynamics. Children who experience trauma often face challenges in trust, emotional regulation, and forming healthy relationships. The burden of trauma can hinder their development in ways that ripple throughout their lives. I lived this reality. Yet through those difficult years, I discovered a deep empathy and a fierce desire to protect and support children who might be enduring similar pain. My personal experience drives my commitment to being a source of stability and care for children. At 17, I was offered a role as an Assistant Teacher at Country Creek Learning Center—a dream opportunity that allowed me to nurture young minds and hearts. There, I realized how crucial it is for children to feel safe, understood, and valued. It reinforced my goal of becoming a pediatrician with a foundation in psychology, so I can address the full spectrum of a child’s needs—physical, emotional, and mental. Trauma-informed care isn’t just a concept for me; it’s a calling born from lived experience. My hope is to create environments where children who have faced trauma feel seen and supported. As a pediatrician, I want to offer more than medical treatment—I want to build trust, offer compassion, and advocate for healing. Early intervention can change the trajectory of a child’s life, and I am determined to be part of that healing process. I also think about the impact of one caring adult. Throughout my journey, my AP United States History teacher, Mr. Barth, believed in me when I struggled to believe in myself. His support planted a seed of confidence and hope that continues to inspire me today. Just as he lifted me up, I want to be that person for the children I care for. In conclusion, early childhood trauma can have lasting consequences, but with empathy, support, and dedicated care, healing is possible. My personal story fuels my passion and guides my path forward—to become a pediatrician who not only heals bodies but also nurtures hearts and minds.

My leadership journey has been shaped by a deep commitment to service, both in and beyond the classroom. I’ve held multiple roles that allowed me to support others and take initiative in meaningful ways. One of the most impactful was working as a certified Assistant Child Care Teacher through my school’s Youth Apprenticeship Program. I helped nurture and guide young children, balancing professional responsibilities while also being a role model during a critical stage of their development. This experience taught me patience, emotional intelligence, and the importance of building trust with those you serve. These are skills that I will carry into my future career in pediatric healthcare. In addition, I served as a Teacher’s Assistant in my school’s athletic office, where I helped organize schedules, maintain records, and assist staff with communication and planning. Though it was behind the scenes, this role gave me a strong sense of professionalism, teamwork, and the importance of supporting a larger system. Even when the work went unnoticed, I learned that reliability and consistency are just as important as visibility. At school, I was an active member of the Student Council, collaborating with my peers to improve school spirit and organize events that brought our community together. I was also honored to be selected to serve on our Student Union, where I helped represent student voices on school-wide matters. These experiences allowed me to listen deeply, advocate respectfully, and understand that true leadership means standing up for others, even when it’s challenging. Beyond school, I remained active in my community. I regularly volunteered at the Sunshine Place, a local organization that provides support to families in need. I also assisted with Red Cross Blood Donation drives, where I helped with setup, check-ins, and supporting donors throughout the process. These experiences helped me develop a service mindset and deepened my desire to make a tangible difference in people’s lives. Academically, I have always strived to lead by example. I passed rigorous courses including AP U.S. History, AP Psychology, and AP Government, and have earned three Sun Prairie Academic Awards. I consistently maintained high grades in all subjects and scored a 10 out of 12 on the ACT Writing section, reflecting my strong communication skills and dedication to academic excellence. In classroom settings, I often take on informal leadership roles by organizing group work, encouraging collaboration, and helping classmates when I can. While I may not have held a formal title such as president or captain, my leadership has always been grounded in quiet impact, consistency, and care. Whether helping a child learn to tie their shoes, organizing athletic paperwork, speaking up for classmates, or volunteering in the community, I strive to lead with empathy and purpose. All of these experiences, academic, professional, and personal, have shaped my goal of becoming a pediatrician with a background in psychology. I want to dedicate my life to supporting the physical, mental, and emotional wellness of children. I believe that leadership is not defined by how loudly you speak, but by how deeply you care and how willing you are to show up for others. That is the kind of leader I have been so far, and the kind of doctor I hope to become.