Serving others has always been an essential part of who I am. To me, a life dedicated to service means making the daily choice to help others by using my compassion, faith, and experiences to improve someone else’s life. Through my Christian faith, personal hardships, volunteer experiences, I have learned that service is not simply something you do it is the kind of person you choose to become. I believe every person deserves kindness, dignity, and compassion, and I hope to spend my life making others feel cared for and valued. One of the greatest influences in my life has been my mother, who is a nurse. Growing up, I watched her work long hours caring for people. No matter how exhausted she was, she always treated her patients with kindness and respect. She never saw people as just patients; she saw them as individuals who needed comfort and care during difficult moments in their lives. Watching her inspired me to pursue nursing because I want to have the same positive impact on others that she has had on so many people. She taught me that helping others is one of the most meaningful things a person can do. My Christian faith has also played a major role in shaping my heart for service. I am very active in my church, and through my involvement, I have learned the importance of empathy, humility, and putting others before myself. Whether participating in church activities, volunteering, or serving alongside members of my church community, I have realized that even the smallest acts of kindness can make a lasting difference. My faith has taught me that Jesus Christ calls us to love and care for others, especially those who are struggling or feeling alone. Through church, I have learned that service is not about recognition—it is about showing love to people when they need it most. Another experience that deeply shaped my understanding of service was volunteering at a nursing home. At first, I expected to help residents with simple tasks, but I quickly realized that many of them simply needed companionship. Some residents rarely had visitors and often felt forgotten or lonely. Sitting with them, listening to their stories, and simply being present showed me how meaningful kindness can be. Those experiences changed my perspective on compassion because I learned that service is not always about grand gestures; sometimes, it is simply making someone feel seen and valued. My personal struggles have also shaped the way I want to serve others. After years of emotional challenges, I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder. There were moments when I felt overwhelmed and uncertain, but those hardships taught me resilience and gave me a deeper understanding of empathy. Because of my experiences, I want to become the type of nurse who cares for patients emotionally as well as physically. I plan to attend Morehead State University to pursue a nursing degree and turn my passion for service into a lifelong career helping others. Although paying for college will be challenging because I come from a low-income background, I am determined to work hard and continue pursuing my dreams. In the future, I also hope to start a nonprofit organization called “Hands of Grace Outreach” to provide support and healthcare resources to elderly individuals and low-income families. To me, a life of service means living with kindness, compassion, and purpose every day. I believe God calls us to help one another, and I hope to spend my life answering that call by caring for others and making a positive difference in the world.

Struggling with my mental health was honestly one of the toughest things I’ve ever gone through. For years, I didn’t know what was wrong—I just felt trapped inside my own head. Some days, I wondered if I could keep going at all. I was exhausted, confused, and overwhelmed, always asking myself why I couldn’t feel “normal.” Most of those days, I felt totally alone. It got harder and harder to juggle school, my relationships, and just looking after myself. But eventually, with a lot of faith, stubborn perseverance, and the constant support from people who really cared about me, I pulled myself out of one of the darkest places in my life. I started believing again in my dream of becoming a nurse. Before anyone figured out what was happening, my emotions were all over the place. Sometimes, I felt on top of the world. Other days, I barely had the energy to get out of bed. I got angry with myself because I wanted to succeed so badly, but my own mind kept getting in the way. I worried all the time that these ups and downs would stop me from reaching my goals or becoming the kind of person who could help others. After years of silent struggle, I finally got diagnosed with bipolar disorder. The news hit me hard, but at least I had answers. I could finally start to heal. Getting through all that wasn’t easy. I had to teach myself to ask for help instead of suffering in silence. For years, I thought I had to deal with everything alone. Turns out, real strength is letting yourself lean on others. I relied a lot on my faith in God—especially on days when everything seemed hopeless. Prayer gave me peace. It reminded me that rough times don’t last forever. Along the way, I learned how to handle life better. I got smarter about managing my time and building healthy routines. I picked up skills to spot when I needed a break or some support. Keeping my eyes on my goals helped drag me through those impossible days. Instead of letting bipolar disorder define me, I decided to use it as fuel—to push myself to grow and to understand others who are struggling, too. Volunteering at a nursing home changed me. Being around the residents taught me just how much kindness and compassion matter. So many simply wanted someone to listen or show them they were important. Those moments made me realize that kindness does the kind of healing medicine sometimes can’t. Going through my own mental health challenges gave me a real sense of empathy—and now, I know it’s essential to treat everyone with patience and respect. All these experiences made my dream of becoming a nurse even stronger. I plan to attend Morehead State University and jump into their nursing program, hoping to spend my life helping others, not just physically, but emotionally, too. My mom’s a nurse, and watching her care for people with so much heart has always inspired me. Between her example and what I’ve overcome myself, I want to be the kind of nurse who makes sure patients are really seen and cared for. Living with bipolar disorder has been brutal, but honestly, it’s taught me so much—resilience, empathy, and just how much kindness matters. I learned that even in the darkest moments, you can rise up and build something meaningful. My struggles didn’t weaken me—they turned me into someone determined to help others feel noticed, supported, and never alone.

Compassion is one virtue that has been developed through the influence of my beliefs, my family and from serving others. As a believer, I know that God requires his followers to love, be kind and serve others that are in need of assistance. My connection with God has played a significant role in shaping me and how I perceive other individuals. Compassion is more than empathy towards another person. Compassion entails the willingness to help the individual, offer them support and making sure they feel valued. It has been through the different instances in which I have volunteered, through my respect for my mother and my desire to become a nurse that I have come to appreciate the value of compassion. My mother is one of the many individuals that have motivated me to be the person I am today. She is a nurse, and from my childhood days, I have always admired her. From the time I watched her take care of her patients with a lot of patience and empathy, despite being exhausted from working for long hours, I saw what nursing is really about. My mother doesn’t see her patients as patients; rather, she sees them as her family members. I learned from her that nursing goes beyond giving medication to people and making sure that they get the right treatment; nursing is about offering comfort to those in need. The volunteer work that I did at the nursing home really helped me expand my definition of compassion even further. I thought that compassion was nothing but being nice to other individuals. However, after spending some time with older adults, I understood that compassion involves being attentive and being able to help other people not only physically but also emotionally. There were many seniors who lacked company and only needed someone with whom they could have a conversation. I would sit and listen to various stories, realizing how happy they became when talking to them. I know for sure that becoming a nurse is the journey God has called me to take. I am going to go to Morehead State University and join their nursing program, which takes four years. Even though it is four years of studying, I have put in so much effort at school that I will start as a sophomore. This makes me proud of myself because it shows how dedicated and determined I have been. I know that being a nursing student won’t be easy, but I am ready for hard work because I truly want to help others. My passion for serving others goes beyond nursing. In the future, once I have the necessary funds and other resources, I intend to establish an NGO named “Hands of Grace Outreach,” which will offer care packages, basic healthcare facilities, emotional counseling, and companionship to the aging population and low-income families unable to afford adequate care. Many individuals around the world feel ignored, and I aim to reverse this trend by offering compassion through action. As much as I feel very strongly about my future, I also get worried on how to manage paying for college. Being born in poverty has made me understand just how necessary scholarships are in my case. However, money is never going to be an impediment to following my dreams because of the effort I have put in academics and my service in the community. My strong belief in God's will makes me do that. Compassion is now the very essence of who I am.

My passion for pursuing an education in STEM is rooted in both my personal experiences and my desire to serve others in a meaningful way. From a young age, I have been drawn to science because of its ability to explain the world and improve people’s lives. However, my connection to STEM became much deeper as I faced my own challenges, particularly living with bipolar disorder. This experience has shaped not only who I am, but also who I aspire to become. Living with bipolar disorder has not always been easy. There have been moments of uncertainty, emotional highs and lows, and times when I felt misunderstood. Despite these challenges, it has given me a perspective that many people do not have. I understand what it feels like to struggle internally while trying to appear okay on the outside. Because of this, I have developed a strong sense of empathy and compassion for others, especially those dealing with mental health issues. Instead of letting my diagnosis define me in a negative way, I have chosen to let it inspire me to help others who may feel alone or unheard. This is what has driven me toward becoming a doctor. I want to be more than just someone who diagnoses and treats physical symptoms I want to be someone who truly listens and cares. I want my future patients to feel seen, valued, and understood. STEM, particularly in the field of medicine, gives me the opportunity to combine knowledge with compassion . It allows me to make a real difference in people’s lives, whether that is through treating an illness, supporting someone through a difficult diagnosis, or simply offering kindness during a vulnerable moment. My faith is also a central part of my passion and purpose. I believe that all of my strength, perseverance, and accomplishments are possible because of God. Through every challenge I have faced, He has guided me and given me the courage to keep moving forward. I want my future career to reflect His love in everything I do. To me, being a doctor is not just a profession, it is a calling. I want to show God’s love through my actions by treating every patient with kindness, patience, and respect. I believe that even small moments of compassion can have a lasting impact on someone’s life. In addition to my personal experiences and faith, I am deeply interested in the ever-evolving nature of STEM. Science and medicine are constantly advancing, offering new discoveries and better ways to care for patients. I am especially passionate about mental health and hope to contribute to breaking the stigma that surrounds it. Too often, people suffering from mental illness feel judged or dismissed, and I want to be part of the change that creates a more understanding and supportive healthcare environment. Pursuing an education in STEM is not just about achieving a career goal, it is about fulfilling a purpose. It is about turning my struggles into strength, my faith into action, and my passion into something that can positively impact others. I am committed to working hard, continuing to grow, and becoming a doctor who not only heals the body, but also brings comfort to the mind and hope to the heart. Through STEM, I believe I can make a difference, and that is what drives me every day.

I have had the life drained out of my life, so many factors, including mental health, relationships, and health in general. The constant worry of not only health issues, but the fear of judgment from medical personnel is profound. I have found that many people train the light out of others as a way to make themselves feel better. I want to pursue a career in healthcare to show others that while you might have your light drained it’s important to show others that you can still be a lie if we were a little bit kinder to each other other than the world would be a better place. I want to pursue a career and healthcare to do just that my Mother is a very distinguished successful nurse who constantly puts her patience. First she provides the best care for them not because of the paycheck because she truly cares. I got the pleasure of going to a local nursing home and volunteering my time to work for four days. It was the best experience I have ever had. I loved getting to talk to the people there and hear their stories and share my love for Jesus God has blessed me in more ways than I can count. He continues to lift me up and allow me to beat the lot and other sloths. He would never assign you a mountain that you cannot move. I want to make women feel comfortable through their own skin and the love of Lord. I want to be an OB/GYN and bring life into the world through God‘s grace. I owe all of chloe to God and I will continue to do that for the rest of my time as I show all of my patients and healthcare grace and kindness as my everyday job is the worst day. It’s important to remember that kindness can take you farther than anything Jesus God for your sins, forgive pecan, and Liv like the Lord healthcare providers are extremely important without them. There would be no us and without God there would be no us. They go hand-in-hand so I want to give all my glory to God and show that through my excellent practices of exempt care. Every patient I come to contact with will be treated with the utmost respect and love as they deserve. I want to be a healthcare provider because I want to help and live like Jesus.

Let me invite you to listen to my testimony. And hear about my relationship with my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. As someone who lives with many mental health issues I constantly think, Which version of myself will I wake up to today? This is a constant question I ask myself as someone who’s living with bipolar disorder. This condition makes it difficult to do everyday tasks one day, and the next, I genuinely think I could be the president. It might sound like a fun cycle but let me tell you that Minia isn’t a good place for me. I learned how to manage my bipolar but it took time and it took god. The lord showed me grace in times of hurt. When I felt out of place he was my home and comfort. But, I shortly realized that medication is very important to get on the right mix and go to therapy. A conversation many are avoiding having is that some say“you should just pray and you don’t need therapy” while I think that God intended for us to have both. I had a friend tell me once that I was sinning by going to therapy. I don’t blame her for thinking this. I can see the confusion. It would be a sin if I were to idolize my therapist over the Lord. I know that breathing exercises and meditation help to calm the pain but Jesus is the long-term solution. My lord wouldn’t place any mountain in front of me that I couldn’t move. So while I have anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and panic disorder, I don’t let that define me. I put my trust in the lord and know that through Him I can get through any battle. I have a strong belief that many people are given hardships to show others that, through pain, it’s possible to show God's love and live like him even when you’re going through your own battles. By having my own unspoken troubles I want to ensure that I will be the best health care provider I can be. I want to be a light to others. I want to help those in need no matter the size, color, or height. And most importantly and more than anything i want to show others that it’s important to be kind. It’s always the better option to live like Jesus; so that’s what I am going to choose to do. Making a positive impact on those around me and loving like god can and will get you through any hardships but it’s important to have community as well, and Jesus states that. LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF. By going to collage i will show the love of Jesus Christ to all who’ll listen. Treat others like Jesus would and be intentional with your actions. I have lived by these rules and it feels like a weight is lifted off my shoulders. The way I have learned to get over my hardships is to lean on my neighbor and love and praise the lord for all to see; happiness then will follow. While bipolar isn’t easy and it will never go away it helps to know that you aren’t alone and you always have a friend in the lord.

Which version of myself will I wake up to today? This is a constant question I ask myself as someone who’s living with bipolar disorder. This condition makes it difficult to do everyday tasks one day, and the next, I genuinely think I could be the president. It might sound like a fun cycle but let me tell you that Minia isn’t a good place for me. I learned how to manage my bipolar but it took time and it took god. The lord showed me grace in times of hurt. When I felt out of place he was my home and comfort. But, I shortly realized that medication is very important to get on the right mix and go to therapy. A conversation many are avoiding having is that some say“you should just pray and you don’t need therapy” while I think that God intended for us to have both. I had a friend tell me once that I was sinning by going to therapy. I don’t blame her for thinking this. I can see the confusion. It would be a sin if I were to idolize my therapist over the Lord. I know that breathing exercises and meditation help to calm the pain but Jesus is the long-term solution. My lord wouldn’t place any mountain in front of me that I couldn’t move. So while I have anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and panic disorder, I don’t let that define me. I put my trust in the lord and know that through Him I can get through any battle. I have a strong belief that many people are given hardships to show others that, through pain, it’s possible to show God's love and live like him even when you’re going through your own battles. By having my own unspoken troubles I want to ensure that I will be the best health care provider I can be. I want to be a light to others. I want to help those in need no matter the size, color, or height. And most importantly and more than anything i want to show others that it’s important to be kind. It’s always the better option to live like Jesus; so that’s what I am going to choose to do. Making a positive impact on those around me and loving like god can and will get you through any hardships but it’s important to have community as well, and Jesus states that. LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF. By going to collage i will show the love of Jesus Christ to all who’ll listen. Treat others like Jesus would and be intentional with your actions. I have lived by these rules and it feels like a weight is lifted off my shoulders. The way I have learned to get over my hardships is to lean on my neighbor and love and praise the lord for all to see; happiness then will follow. While bipolar isn’t easy and it will never go away it helps to know that you aren’t alone and you always have a friend in the lord.

Which version of myself will I wake up to today? This is a constant question I ask myself as someone who’s living with bipolar disorder. This condition makes it difficult to do everyday tasks one day, and the next, I genuinely think I could be the president. It might sound like a fun cycle but let me tell you that Minia isn’t a good place for me. I learned how to manage my bipolar but it took time and it took god. The lord showed me grace in times of hurt. When I felt out of place he was my home and comfort. But, I shortly realized that medication is very important to get on the right mix and go to therapy. A conversation many are avoiding having is that some say“you should just pray and you don’t need therapy” while I think that God intended for us to have both. I had a friend tell me once that I was sinning by going to therapy. I don’t blame her for thinking this. I can see the confusion. It would be a sin if I were to idolize my therapist over the Lord. I know that breathing exercises and meditation help to calm the pain but Jesus is the long-term solution. My lord wouldn’t place any mountain in front of me that I couldn’t move. So while I have anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and panic disorder, I don’t let that define me. I put my trust in the lord and know that through Him I can get through any battle. I have a strong belief that many people are given hardships to show others that, through pain, it’s possible to show God's love and live like him even when you’re going through your own battles. By having my own unspoken troubles I want to ensure that I will be the best health care provider I can be. I want to be a light to others. I want to help those in need no matter the size, color, or height. And most importantly and more than anything i want to show others that it’s important to be kind. It’s always the better option to live like Jesus; so that’s what I am going to choose to do. Making a positive impact on those around me and loving like god can and will get you through any hardships but it’s important to have community as well, and Jesus states that. LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF. By going to collage i will show the love of Jesus Christ to all who’ll listen. Treat others like Jesus would and be intentional with your actions. I have lived by these rules and it feels like a weight is lifted off my shoulders. The way I have learned to get over my hardships is to lean on my neighbor and love and praise the lord for all to see; happiness then will follow. While bipolar isn’t easy and it will never go away it helps to know that you aren’t alone and you always have a friend in the lord.

From Marcus Aurelius, book 2: “You have power over your mind not inside events. Realise this, and you will find strength.” It is one thing to understand that true control lies within myself, and quite another to accept responsibility for my feelings and reactions to events. Realizing the difference between what I can control and what is key to working effectively on myself; thus helping to create a positive impact in the world around me. The main idea of this passage is that people's lives can be controlled by their own actions, thoughts, and feelings rather than by outside sources or events that happen to them. This thought was expressed by Marcus Aurelius, the Roman Emperor, who explained that people often have difficulty in their lives because they are trying to control aspects of life that cannot able to be controlled like how someone behaves or the outcome of an unexpected event. Aurelius explains that the only thing we have full control over is our own mind. The reason this is so significant is that no longer will we blame outside circumstances for our moods; therefore, the emphasis now has been placed on us taking responsibility for how we respond to events rather than placing blame on other people/forces. The most significant concept in this passage is the clear distinction between what I have control over and what I do not. While not all situations can be changed or controlled, by choosing how I respond, and hence my attitude toward the experience. Emotion, such as anger/stress/sadness, is not caused by the situation or circumstance itself, but, instead, it is caused by how I perceive that situation/circumstance. Consequently, two people could be experiencing the same situation and respond differently; thus supporting the notion that perspective/interpretation contributes heavily to the experience. The phrase “realize this” is very significant here because it establishes that our understanding of this concept is not just about knowing it; it is also about how we apply this concept in our daily lives and as we progress through our individual evolutions. Ultimately, the only thing we completely control is our mind. This concept is truly powerful; it takes the focus off the external situations in life, and puts it solely on the individual. Therefore, the only thing we can really do to take charge of our lives is to strengthen our minds to be able to manage the changing world around us. The above concepts illustrate an understanding of a common struggle; that people often seek to control that which cannot be controlled, such as someone's behaviour or the results of an event, only to realise that they are limiting themselves in the process. The more we reduce our focus or desire to control those we cannot control, the more stress, frustration and disappointment we will have in our lives. Ultimately, the only thing we completely control is our mind. This concept is truly powerful; it takes the focus off the external situations in life, and puts it solely on the individual. Therefore, the only thing we can really do to take charge of our lives is to strengthen our minds to be able to manage the changing world around us. The above concepts illustrate an understanding of a common struggle; that people often seek to control that which cannot be controlled, such as someone's behaviour or the results of an event, only to realise that they are limiting themselves in the process. The more we reduce our focus or desire to control those we cannot control, the more stress, frustration and disappointment we will have in our lives.

Which version of myself will I wake up to today? This is a constant question I ask myself as someone who’s living with bipolar disorder. This condition makes it difficult to do everyday tasks one day, and the next, I genuinely think I could be the president. It might sound like a fun cycle but let me tell you that Minia isn’t a good place for me. I learned how to manage my bipolar but it took time and it took god. The lord showed me grace in times of hurt. When I felt out of place he was my home and comfort. But, I shortly realized that medication is very important to get on the right mix and go to therapy. A conversation many are avoiding having is that some say“you should just pray and you don’t need therapy” while I think that God intended for us to have both. I had a friend tell me once that I was sinning by going to therapy. I don’t blame her for thinking this. I can see the confusion. It would be a sin if I were to idolize my therapist over the Lord. I know that breathing exercises and meditation help to calm the pain but Jesus is the long-term solution. My lord wouldn’t place any mountain in front of me that I couldn’t move. So while I have anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and panic disorder, I don’t let that define me. I put my trust in the lord and know that through Him I can get through any battle. I have a strong belief that many people are given hardships to show others that, through pain, it’s possible to show God's love and live like him even when you’re going through your own battles. By having my own unspoken troubles I want to ensure that I will be the best health care provider I can be. I want to be a light to others. I want to help those in need no matter the size, color, or height. And most importantly and more than anything i want to show others that it’s important to be kind. It’s always the better option to live like Jesus; so that’s what I am going to choose to do. Making a positive impact on those around me and loving like god can and will get you through any hardships but it’s important to have community as well, and Jesus states that. LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF. By going to collage i will show the love of Jesus Christ to all who’ll listen. Treat others like Jesus would and be intentional with your actions. I have lived by these rules and it feels like a weight is lifted off my shoulders. The way I have learned to get over my hardships is to lean on my neighbor and love and praise the lord for all to see; happiness then will follow. While bipolar isn’t easy and it will never go away it helps to know that you aren’t alone and you always have a friend in the lord.

Some teachers simply teach lessons, but others teach you how to live. For me, that teacher is Mr. Jeffrey Huffman, my math teacher, my cheer coach, my pageant coach, and one of the most inspiring people I have ever met. Mr. Huffman has been a part of my life long before I ever stepped foot in his classroom. He was my mother’s cheer coach when she was in high school, and she would always tell me stories about him, how kind he was, how hard he worked, and how he brought out the best in everyone around him. When I became one of his cheerleaders years later, it felt almost surreal. I wasn’t just being coached by an amazing teacher; I was being guided by someone who had already made a difference in my family’s story. From the very beginning, I understood exactly what my mom meant when she said he was special. Mr. Huffman isn’t just an incredible math teacher, though he is one of the best I’ve ever had. He’s a genuine, compassionate person who truly cares about others. In class, he never let anyone feel left behind. If a student didn’t understand something, he’d stay late, patiently explaining every step until it clicked. He believed in every single one of us, even when we didn’t believe in ourselves. As my cheer and pageant coach, Mr. Huffman taught me lessons that went far beyond routines or competitions. He showed me the importance of confidence, grace, and perseverance. He pushed me to give my best, not because he demanded perfection, but because he saw potential in me that I didn’t always see in myself. His encouragement helped me find my voice, both on and off the stage. There were moments in high school when life felt overwhelming, when health struggles, stress, and self-doubt made me want to give up. But Mr. Huffman was always there. Sometimes it was with a simple “You’ve got this,” or other times it was just him listening when I needed someone to talk to. He has this incredible ability to sense when someone is struggling and step in quietly, without ever making you feel like a burden. His kindness has carried me through more moments than he’ll ever know. What makes Mr. Huffman truly remarkable is his heart. He would do anything for anyone. Whether it’s helping a student after hours, supporting a fundraiser, or just spreading positivity in the hallways, he gives everything he has to others. He leads not through authority, but through compassion and example. Because of him, I’ve learned that real leadership isn’t about being in charge, it’s about lifting others up and making them feel seen and valued. Mr. Huffman has changed how I approach life. He’s taught me that kindness is strength, that hard work and humility go hand in hand, and that the greatest impact we can have is through the love and care we show others. He believed in me when I needed it most, and that belief has shaped the person I am today. He’s more than a teacher or a coach; he’s a role model, a mentor, and a reminder that one person’s compassion can change countless lives. Because of Mr. Huffman, I strive every day to be that person for someone else.

The movie The Pursuit of Happyness changed the way I see the world and the way I see myself. I’ve watched it more times than I can count, but every single time, it hits me just as hard. Watching Chris Gardner, played by Will Smith, struggle to hold his life together while chasing an impossible dream made me realize something powerful: success isn’t just about talent or luck. It’s about refusing to give up, no matter how many times life knocks you down. Before I saw that movie, I used to think that if life was hard, maybe it meant it wasn’t meant for me. I thought that people who reached their goals must have had it easier, more resources, more support, more confidence. But watching Chris sleep in a bathroom with his son after being evicted from his apartment, watching him show up to work every day with determination instead of despair, changed that belief forever. It showed me that perseverance isn’t optional it’s essential. That movie taught me that no one hands you happiness; you build it. You fight for it. You sacrifice for it. Chris Gardner’s story made me reflect on my own life and the obstacles I’ve faced, times when my own health struggles, doubts, or financial worries made me question if I was capable of achieving my dreams. But now, when I feel like giving up, I think of him running through the streets of San Francisco, chasing not just opportunity, but hope. And I keep going. It also changed how I view my responsibilities. Chris wasn’t just fighting for himself; he was fighting for his son. His love, his selflessness, and his quiet strength taught me that real success isn’t measured in money or recognition, it’s measured in the lives you touch and the love you give along the way. That message has shaped my purpose. I want to spend my life helping others, which is why I’m determined to pursue a career in medicine. Like Chris, I’ve known struggle, but I also know the power of compassion, determination, and hope. I want to carry that same resilience into every patient interaction, every surgery, every challenge. There’s a scene in the movie where Chris finally gets the job he’s been working toward, the moment everything changes. He steps outside, looks up, and begins to clap softly through tears. It’s not loud or dramatic; it’s quiet and real. Every time I see that moment, I cry too, because I understand that feeling. It’s not just happiness, it’s relief, gratitude, and pride for never giving up when it would’ve been easier to walk away. The Pursuit of Happyness taught me that failure isn’t final unless you let it be. It taught me that determination can outshine circumstance and that strength often looks like showing up when everything in you wants to stop. Most importantly, it taught me to believe in myself, even when no one else does. Whenever I face an obstacle, whether it’s in school, in my health, or in chasing my dream of becoming a surgeon, I remember Chris Gardner’s journey. I remind myself that my story, too, can be one of perseverance and purpose. Because happiness isn’t something you find, it’s something you fight for. And I’ve made up my mind: I’m never going to stop fighting for mine.

For as long as I can remember, I’ve wanted to help people feel better. That dream began at home, watching my mom put on her scrubs every morning before her nursing shift. She’s the kind of nurse who treats every patient like family, who goes the extra mile even when she’s exhausted, who shows compassion when others might give up. Growing up with her taught me that caring for people isn’t just a job; it’s a calling. Her dedication, patience, and kindness are what first inspired me to pursue a career in the medical field. But it’s my own health journey that gave that dream its true purpose. When I was diagnosed with Alpha-gal Syndrome, everything in my life changed. It’s a rare allergy caused by a tick bite, and it makes me allergic to red meat. Something as simple as eating a burger can trigger a reaction. At first, I felt frustrated. Why me? It seemed so unfair to have my diet, my social life, and even my sense of normalcy taken away by something so random. But over time, I realized that this experience gave me a perspective few others have. I understand what it’s like to live with a chronic condition that people don’t always understand. I know the frustration of sitting in a doctor’s office, searching for answers, hoping someone will take you seriously. That empathy, the ability to truly understand a patient’s fear and uncertainty, is something I plan to carry with me into my medical career. I’ve also battled severe chronic eczema. There have been days when the pain and irritation made it hard to sleep, focus, or even smile. Skin is something most people take for granted, but when it’s constantly inflamed, it changes the way you see yourself and the world. These struggles have shown me just how powerful compassionate healthcare can be. When a doctor listens, when they care enough to look deeper than the surface, it makes all the difference. That’s the kind of physician I want to be. I plan to become a surgeon because surgery represents both precision and hope. It’s the art of using science, skill, and heart to give someone a second chance. I’m drawn to that moment, the one where knowledge meets compassion and where a surgeon’s hands can quite literally change a person’s life. Through surgery, I can help people heal in the most direct and meaningful way possible. Whether it’s repairing an injury, removing a tumor, or restoring function, I want to be there, steady, focused, and giving my patients the best chance at a better tomorrow. My mother’s compassion, combined with my own medical challenges, has shaped not only what I want to do, but why I want to do it. I know what it’s like to feel powerless in your own body, and I want to dedicate my life to helping others reclaim theirs. I want to be the doctor who listens, who advocates, and who never gives up on a patient. Medicine, to me, isn’t just about diagnosing illness; it’s about restoring hope. I’ve seen both sides of the hospital bed, and I believe that my experiences, though difficult, have prepared me to make a real difference. My journey with Alpha-gal and eczema has taught me resilience; my mother has taught me compassion. Together, they’ve built the foundation for the surgeon and the person I aspire to become.

When I think about the person who has shaped me the most, one face instantly comes to mind: my Grammy. She is the most fabulous person I know, a woman who can light up any room with her laughter, her perfectly chosen jewelry, and her unstoppable energy. She loves all things girly, shopping trips, lipstick, and a new pair of heels, but beneath the sparkle is a woman of extraordinary grit, determination, and heart. My Grammy is living proof that you can come from nothing and still build a beautiful, powerful life. She grew up with very little. The kind of “little” where every dollar mattered and every dream seemed too far away. But she refused to let her circumstances define her. She worked harder than anyone I’ve ever known, long days, sleepless nights, never once complaining. What amazes me most is that she never lost her sense of joy. Even when life gave her every reason to give up, she faced it with painted nails, a big smile, and a faith that everything would work out if she just kept moving forward. Growing up, I watched her turn ordinary moments into magic. A quick errand would become a spontaneous shopping adventure, complete with her favorite snack, Cheez-Its, stashed in her purse “just in case.” She would walk through the aisles of a store as if she owned the world, teaching me that confidence isn’t about money or status, it’s about believing you belong anywhere you decide to stand. When I was little, she’d let me try on her jewelry, telling me that each piece represented a victory she’d earned for herself. “These aren’t just accessories,” she’d say, smiling. “They’re reminders of what hard work can bring you.” But what makes her my greatest inspiration isn’t just her strength or style, it’s her heart. Grammy loves fiercely. She shows up for people, no matter what. She taught me that kindness isn’t weakness; it’s a superpower. Watching her care for others, family, friends, even strangers, has shown me what it means to lead with love and to measure success not by what you have, but by what you give. Whenever I face a challenge, I think of her. When I’m studying late or feeling unsure about my future, I imagine her voice in my head: “You’ve got this, baby. You’re strong. You come from strong women.” That reminder gives me the courage to keep pushing forward, to chase my dreams with the same determination she’s always shown. My Grammy’s story is more than just inspiration; it’s my foundation. She taught me that resilience and grace can coexist, that you can be both tough and tender, and that no dream is too big if you’re willing to work for it. She made me believe that even if you start with nothing, you can create a life full of beauty, purpose, and love. One day, I hope to make her as proud of me as I am of her. I want to carry her legacy of hard work, optimism, and compassion into everything I do, whether that’s in my education, my career, or the way I treat others. Because of her, I don’t just want to succeed; I want to shine, to inspire, and to lift others the way she has lifted me. My Grammy isn’t just my role model, she’s my hero, my best friend, and the reason I believe I can do anything. She’s proof that with enough determination, kindness, and a little bit of sparkle, you can build a life that glows.

When I think about the future, I don’t see it in inventions or machines; I see it in people. I see the patient on an operating table, the family waiting for news, the surgeon leading a team with steady hands and a calm heart. To me, leadership and science aren’t just forces that shape the future; they are the path I want to walk to help others heal. My mother, a nurse, taught me what true leadership looks like. She doesn’t lead with authority, but with compassion. I remember waiting up for her after long shifts, hearing stories of patients who had no visitors or children who were terrified before surgery. She never talked about awards or recognition, just people. Through her, I learned that leadership in healthcare means showing up for others when they are most vulnerable. As I grew older, I began to see how science turns compassion into action. When a family friend was diagnosed with a rare lung condition, I witnessed both the power and the limits of medicine. Each appointment carried hope, but also uncertainty. Watching their struggle changed me. It made me want to be part of the next generation of medical professionals, people who not only use science to treat disease but also use empathy to heal hearts. That’s when I knew I wanted to become a surgeon. Surgery is the perfect balance of precision and purpose, a moment where knowledge meets humanity. It requires leadership, courage, and the ability to make decisions that mean life or death. I want to be the person in that room who offers both skill and reassurance, who helps patients and families find hope even in the hardest moments. Leadership and science shape our future because they remind us what it means to care to build, to heal, to give. My dream is to use both to help people breathe easier, live longer, and know they’re never alone in their fight. That’s the future I want to help create.

From a young age, I learned that compassion isn’t just a feeling; it’s an action. My earliest memories are of my mother coming home from long hospital shifts, still wearing her scrubs, her face tired yet glowing with quiet pride. She’s a nurse, the kind of person who would stop to comfort a patient’s family long after her shift ended, or spend her own money to buy a small gift for someone who had no visitors. Watching her, I learned what it meant to dedicate your life to the healing of others. When I was younger, I didn’t fully understand what drove her. I just knew that people trusted her, and that somehow, her care made them better, not just physically, but emotionally. It wasn’t until a family friend was diagnosed with a rare lung disease that I began to grasp the depth of what she did. I saw how fragile life could be, how each breath became a battle, and how powerless one can feel when science hasn’t yet caught up with the illness. That experience left an imprint on me. It was the first time I realized I wanted to be the person who fights back, not just to comfort, but to cure. That’s when I decided I wanted to become a surgeon. For me, surgery represents the perfect blend of science, precision, and humanity. It’s the moment where knowledge and compassion intersect, where hands, guided by skill and empathy, can give someone a second chance. I am drawn to the idea of being that person in the operating room, steady and focused, knowing that my work could mean that a mother goes home to her children, or that a patient with a rare lung condition can breathe without pain again. I’ve spent time shadowing healthcare workers and volunteering at local clinics, and every experience reinforces my conviction. I’ve seen the fear in a patient’s eyes before a procedure and the relief in their family’s when it’s over. I’ve also learned that medicine is about far more than treating a disease; it’s about treating the person. Every diagnosis carries a story, and behind every symptom is someone hoping to be understood. That’s why I want to bring not only surgical skill, but also empathy and advocacy, to my future patients, especially those with conditions that often go overlooked. Lung disease, in particular, feels personal to me. Watching someone struggle for breath changes the way you see the world. You start to appreciate the simple act of inhaling something most of us take for granted. As a surgeon, I want to be at the forefront of developing better treatments, expanding awareness, and ensuring that those with rare or chronic respiratory conditions are not forgotten. Whether through innovative procedures, patient education, or research collaborations, I want my career to stand for hope, especially for those who have been told their options are limited. My mother’s example taught me that healing isn’t just about medical expertise; it’s about the heart. Her compassion built the foundation for my dream, but my own experiences have shaped the purpose behind it. I want to carry that legacy forward, using my hands and my heart to change lives in the operating room and beyond. Because to me, medicine is not just a profession, it’s a promise: a promise to help others breathe easier, live longer, and never feel alone in their fight.