How would the world look with intersectionality and hope for young girls in STEM disciplines? This is an important question to grapple with. I am deeply passionate about advocating for the inclusion of women in STEM and STEM-related fields. It is no secret that women face an evident gender disparity, consistently underrepresented in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and specific healthcare positions. The inclusion of women in every aspect of STEM brings diverse perspectives to traditionally male-dominated fields. Looking back in time, women in science, such as Rosalind Franklin, Marie Curie, and Katherine Johnson have each individually contributed to historic change. They have inspired me to continue to push for change. The legacies of these prominent scientific figures demonstrate what collective inclusion of women in STEM could be, celebrating the inquisitive and revolutionary approaches of a younger generation of girls. Mirroring this pathway allows me to explore my own interests, expand my breadth of knowledge in the areas of healthcare and science, and innovate opportunities for women to be engaged and feel welcome in the world of science academia and industry. All girls deserve a space to be scientists, technologists, engineers, mathematicians, and healthcare workers, and harnessing equity and intersectionality is an ideal place to start. My experiences are catalysts for the passion I feel in my advocacy efforts. An important intellectual experience that solidified my effort to pursue STEM, and raise my voice for girls in STEM, involved a visit to a cadaver lab. In my third year of high school, I visited Northern Kentucky University with my class to explore biomedical sciences. The pivotal event was group interaction with cadavers. Beyond initial impressions, I fluidly adapted to asking questions and holding organs. As I held complex parts, like a human brain and heart, I felt connected to the tangibility and vitality of life. It helped me gain a greater appreciation for the privilege I have as a young women to learn science. I recognized that all women should have the experience of exploring the brain, or, on a broader scale, explore their passions hands-on in accessible ways. Additionally, this experience solidified my commitment to science and biology, emphasizing my journey towards understanding the intricacies of science. It fueled my desire and determination to pursue neuroscience. Beyond high school, I am now on my own journey studying neurobiology at the University of Cincinnati to earn a Bachelor of Science degree. I am considering further specialization in neuroimaging, neurosurgery, or pathology through a goal of admission to medical school. I am interested in the scientific underpinnings behind neurological conditions. I want to bridge the gap between understanding unique pathologies and providing tailored, adequate treatment. In five years, I hope to have continued my education through higher learning. I want to propel original thinking and ignite new outlooks to mirror what is possible, just like the brilliant minds I am inspired by. Through my professional and personal journey, I strive to embody visionary qualities in my respective field, so that I can offer a glimpse of what the world can provide for other girls.

Could I have a future of influencing teenagers and their mental health? I often ask myself this when I reflect on what I want to be in my life. Often, younger generations don’t have the resources around them to ensure a positive life experience, and I want to contribute to changing that. By becoming a licensed clinical therapist, I can assist teens in overcoming life struggles. I have always had a passion for helping others. Having high levels of empathy makes me feel inclined to reach out and advocate for others. Throughout my years, I have volunteered for various organizations to achieve my dreams of helping my community. Additionally, I attended the Women’s March in Washington DC, prior to COVID-19. By supporting the people and causes around me, I can continue to make an impact, which can help me in my career. I find many opportunities to pursue my purpose in the present moment. I am currently a sophomore in high school maintaining a 4.0 GPA, while being a student athlete on my junior varsity volleyball team. I enjoy working with my classmates in the classroom and cheering on my teammates on the court. Whether it involves school or extra curricular activities, I implement my purpose of impacting others. My visions for the future are nothing but limited. I plan to go to a four-year college and major in psychology. Following my school years, I hope to move away from my suburban hometown to somewhere more urban. This will create more opportunities for me to connect with people on a larger scale. If I could describe my dream life in one word, it would be influential. I will not let go of my dreams. My ambition, as well as this scholarship, can assist me in paving the way for a successful career, lifestyle, and future.