My name is Keiko Moral, and I am an undergraduate student pursuing a career as a Physician Assistant (PA). Growing up in a multicultural household, I have been profoundly shaped by my experiences and the stories of my family. My abuela, who only attended college in her 50s, and my abuelo, who had to abandon his educational dreams to escape communism in Cuba, instilled in me the value of education and the importance of giving back to the community. Their sacrifices inspire my journey, fueling my ambition to enter the medical field and make a difference in the lives of others. As a half Hispanic and half Asian individual, I understand the unique challenges faced by underrepresented communities, particularly when it comes to accessing healthcare. My personal experiences have given me a deep appreciation for the barriers many people encounter. I have witnessed firsthand the difficulties my disabled siblings face navigating the healthcare system, which has reinforced my desire to become a PA. I aim to bridge the gap for families who, like mine, struggle to find compassionate and understanding healthcare providers. Volunteering in my community has played a significant role in shaping my perspective and my commitment to service. I have worked with local organizations focused on health education and support for underserved populations, particularly racially diverse and economically disadvantaged communities. My experience volunteering with hurricane shelters allowed me to assist families during times of crisis, providing essential resources and support. I have also been involved in education services in underserved communities, where I helped provide students with the tools they needed to succeed. Through these experiences, I have seen the impact that accessible healthcare and education can have on individuals' lives, solidifying my resolve to pursue a career in medicine, particularly in rural areas where healthcare resources are often scarce. As a PA, I envision making a positive impact in several key areas. First, I plan to focus on providing care to racially and economically marginalized communities. I want to ensure that everyone, regardless of their background, receives quality healthcare and feels understood in a system that often overlooks them. Education will play a vital role in my approach, as I believe that empowering individuals with knowledge about their health can lead to better outcomes and a greater sense of agency. Additionally, I am passionate about working in rural communities where healthcare providers are limited. Many people in these areas face significant challenges in accessing essential services. I aspire to bring quality medical care to those who need it most, ensuring that every individual receives the attention and respect they deserve. This means not only providing clinical care but also actively listening to patients and understanding their unique circumstances. Lastly, I want to be a mentor for future generations, particularly for young people from underrepresented backgrounds. I hope to share my journey and provide guidance and support to those who may feel discouraged about pursuing a career in healthcare. By being visible and accessible, I want to inspire others to chase their dreams and demonstrate that they, too, can make a difference. In conclusion, my journey to becoming a Physician Assistant is fueled by a deep commitment to service and a desire to create positive change. I aspire to advocate for racially diverse and economically disadvantaged communities, empower individuals through health education, and inspire the next generation of healthcare leaders.

Becoming a Physician Assistant (PA) is not just about mastering medical knowledge; it’s about embodying qualities that foster trust, understanding, and effective communication with patients. As someone who is half Hispanic and half Asian, I have a unique perspective that allows me to appreciate and empathize with the diverse experiences of individuals from various backgrounds. The qualities I believe make an impactful PA include cultural competence, compassion, adaptability, and strong communication skills. I strive to embody these attributes in my pursuit of a career in medicine. Cultural competence is essential for any PA, particularly in today’s diverse healthcare landscape. Understanding and appreciating different cultural backgrounds enables a PA to provide better care tailored to the needs of their patients. My multicultural heritage has equipped me with the ability to connect with individuals from various ethnicities and socioeconomic backgrounds. I have witnessed the struggles that come with racism, immigration, and the weight of familial responsibility. Additionally, my experiences caring for my disabled siblings have given me firsthand insight into the challenges faced by families navigating the healthcare system. This personal insight allows me to approach patients with a sensitivity that fosters trust, encouraging them to share their health concerns openly. Compassion is another crucial quality for an impactful PA. Patients often seek medical assistance during some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives. By offering not just medical expertise but also empathy, PAs can significantly improve a patient’s experience and outcomes. My commitment to compassion has been demonstrated through my volunteer work in community health initiatives, where I’ve engaged with underserved populations. I also reflect on the experiences of my late grandparents, who battled serious illnesses and faced the complexities of healthcare with grace. Listening to their stories has deepened my understanding of the importance of compassionate care and reinforced my desire to advocate for those in similar situations. Adaptability is vital in the ever-evolving field of medicine. PAs must be prepared to handle diverse situations and respond to the varying needs of their patients. I embody adaptability through my experiences balancing my academic pursuits with the responsibilities of caring for my siblings. Navigating these commitments has taught me to be flexible and resourceful, skills that will serve me well in a clinical environment where circumstances can change rapidly. Strong communication skills are essential for building rapport with patients and collaborating effectively with healthcare teams. I have honed my communication abilities through my involvement in peer mentorship programs, where I supported fellow students from diverse backgrounds. These experiences have taught me the importance of clear and compassionate dialogue in fostering understanding and teamwork. As a future PA, I aim to ensure that every patient feels heard and respected, regardless of their background. The PAC: Diversity Matters Scholarship represents an opportunity for me to further my education in a field where I can make a meaningful impact. By reducing financial barriers, this scholarship would enable me to focus on my studies and community service, enhancing my ability to serve diverse populations in the future. In conclusion, the qualities of an impactful PA—cultural competence, compassion, adaptability, and strong communication skills—are deeply rooted in my identity and experiences. I am committed to embodying these attributes as I pursue my goal of becoming a Physician Assistant. By understanding and addressing the unique needs of my patients, I hope to contribute positively to their lives and the healthcare system as a whole.

Growing up in Tampa, Florida, my passion for medicine has been profoundly shaped by personal experiences that have illuminated both the fragility of health and the power of compassionate care. Spending weeks in hospitals due to my family’s health struggles, particularly with cancer, has deeply influenced my desire to pursue a career as a Physician Assistant (PA). With cancer running in my family—having lost both of my grandparents to this devastating disease—and two of my siblings living with disabilities, I have witnessed firsthand the complexities of healthcare and the critical need for compassionate, informed support in navigating these challenges. From a young age, I spent considerable time in hospitals, which provided me with a unique perspective on the healthcare system. I observed not only the clinical aspects of patient care but also the emotional impact that illnesses can have on families. The professionalism and empathy exhibited by healthcare providers left a lasting impression on me. I admired how they were able to comfort my family during difficult times, offering not just medical treatment but also emotional support and guidance. These experiences ignited my passion for medicine, as I realized the profound difference that dedicated healthcare professionals can make in the lives of patients and their families. The loss of my grandparents to cancer was a turning point in my life. I remember the myriad of emotions that engulfed my family during those weeks in the hospital—the hope for recovery, the fear of the unknown, and the ultimate grief of loss. Through these experiences, I developed a deep understanding of the fragility of life and the importance of having compassionate caregivers who can advocate for patients during their most vulnerable moments. It became clear to me that being a PA would not only allow me to practice medicine but also provide the opportunity to be a source of comfort and support for patients and their families facing similar challenges. Additionally, my siblings’ disabilities have further shaped my perspective on healthcare. I have seen how they navigate a system that often feels overwhelming and inaccessible. Their experiences have made me acutely aware of the barriers that many individuals face in receiving proper care. This awareness has fueled my determination to become a healthcare provider who advocates for health equity and accessibility. I want to ensure that all patients, regardless of their background or circumstances, have access to the quality care they need and deserve. In pursuit of my goal to become a PA, I have chosen to study biology, a field that will provide me with the foundational knowledge necessary to excel in healthcare. The curriculum will encompass critical topics such as human anatomy, pharmacology, and patient care, equipping me with the skills required to navigate complex medical situations. Furthermore, I am eager to engage in hands-on experiences through internships and clinical rotations, particularly in underserved communities. I believe these experiences will deepen my understanding of the healthcare landscape and reinforce my commitment to advocating for those who are often overlooked. As I work toward my goal, I hope to inspire my peers to pursue their educational aspirations, demonstrating that success is possible despite systemic barriers. Many young people in my community may feel discouraged by the challenges they face, and I want to show them that pursuing higher education is achievable. By sharing my journey and highlighting the importance of resilience, I aim to foster hope and determination among my peers. In my future career as a PA, I aspire to create a practice that prioritizes inclusivity and accessibility. I want to advocate for health literacy, helping individuals understand their health options and encouraging them to take charge of their well-being. My goal is to develop programs that empower community members, providing resources and support that facilitate access to care. Through workshops and informational sessions, I hope to foster a culture of health awareness and advocacy, addressing immediate needs while promoting long-term wellness. Moreover, I believe that collaboration is essential in healthcare. I aim to work within interdisciplinary teams to create comprehensive care plans that address not only the physical health of patients but also their emotional and social needs. Understanding that health is multifaceted will allow me to provide holistic care that considers the broader context of a patient’s life. By actively listening to my patients and involving them in their care decisions, I hope to build trusting relationships that lead to better health outcomes. Ultimately, my vision extends beyond individual patient care; I aspire to contribute to systemic changes that promote health equity. I want to work toward policies that ensure equitable access to healthcare resources for all individuals, regardless of their socioeconomic status or background. By participating in community health initiatives and advocating for policy changes, I hope to help dismantle the barriers that prevent many people from accessing the care they need. In conclusion, my journey toward becoming a Physician Assistant is deeply rooted in personal experiences that have shaped my understanding of healthcare and the importance of compassionate care. Through my studies in biology health sciences, hands-on experiences, and advocacy efforts, I aim to address healthcare disparities and empower individuals to take charge of their health. My goal is to be a role model for my peers, demonstrating that despite systemic challenges, achieving a college education and making a difference in the world is possible. Through my work, I aspire to create a more equitable healthcare landscape where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, especially those who, like my family, face unique health challenges.

### Pursuing a Degree in STEM: My Journey and Vision for Universal Accessibility Growing up as a person of color, I often felt the weight of underrepresentation in the STEM fields. Yet, instead of discouraging me, this reality ignited a passion within me to pursue a degree in engineering, specifically focusing on universal accessibility. My fascination with STEM began at a young age, fueled by an innate curiosity about how the world works. From building simple circuits to exploring the mechanics of everyday objects, I found joy in understanding complex systems and solving problems. This journey led me to recognize that diversity in STEM is essential for driving innovation and addressing the multifaceted challenges our society faces. My decision to pursue a degree in engineering is deeply rooted in a desire to make a meaningful impact, particularly for my siblings who have disabilities. Their experiences navigating a world that often overlooks accessibility have profoundly shaped my aspirations. I believe that everyone, regardless of ability, should have the opportunity to fully engage with their environment. My goal is to design solutions that prioritize inclusivity, ensuring that innovation benefits all individuals. I envision developing products and systems that enhance the lives of people with disabilities, from creating user-friendly technology to improving transportation systems and designing buildings that are accessible to everyone. In my journey, I have also taken on leadership roles to further my commitment to inclusivity in engineering. As a council member of the Society of Women Engineers, I advocate for the representation and advancement of women in engineering, while fostering a supportive community for all aspiring engineers. Additionally,becoming an intern with the Asian Engineers organization has allowed me to connect with other diverse voices in the field, further emphasizing the importance of representation in STEM. These experiences have reinforced my belief that diverse perspectives are crucial for driving innovation and ensuring that solutions are effective and equitable. Furthermore, I am dedicated to being a mentor and advocate for underrepresented communities in STEM. I know firsthand how crucial representation is; seeing someone who looks like you in a position of success can be a powerful motivator. By engaging in mentorship programs and outreach initiatives, I hope to inspire young students, particularly those from BIPOC backgrounds, to explore careers in engineering. Sharing my journey will demonstrate that a career in this field is not only achievable but also impactful. The path to becoming an engineer dedicated to universal accessibility is not without its challenges. Financial barriers, coupled with navigating environments that may not always be inclusive, can be daunting. However, I am determined to persevere through these obstacles, driven by my commitment to creating a more equitable landscape in engineering. By leveraging my education and experiences, I aim to advocate for systemic changes that break down barriers and promote inclusivity for future innovators of color. In conclusion, my pursuit of a STEM degree in engineering is fueled by a passion for discovery and a commitment to universal accessibility. I aspire to contribute to a future where diverse ideas drive innovation and ensure that everyone can access the resources they need to succeed. As a person of color with personal ties to the issue of accessibility through my siblings, I carry the hope of inspiring others to join me in this journey, ensuring that the next generation of engineers reflects the rich tapestry of our society. Together, we can foster a world where every voice is heard, every idea valued, and every challenge met with creativity and resilience.

As a fan of LeBron James, I am continually inspired not just by his unparalleled talent on the basketball court but also by his impact off it. LeBron embodies the essence of hard work, dedication, and resilience. From his early days in Akron, Ohio, to becoming a global icon, he has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to excellence. His versatility allows him to play multiple positions, and his basketball IQ is remarkable; he makes decisions on the court that often seem impossible for others. Watching him perform is like witnessing a master at work—his ability to elevate his teammates and adapt to any situation sets him apart. Beyond the court, LeBron’s influence is profound. He uses his platform to advocate for social justice, education, and community empowerment. Initiatives like the “I PROMISE School” in Akron highlight his dedication to creating opportunities for underserved children, showcasing his belief in the transformative power of education. This commitment to giving back resonates deeply with me and reflects a sense of responsibility that I aspire to embody in my own life. When considering whether LeBron James is the greatest basketball player of all time, it’s a nuanced discussion. His impressive accolades—four NBA championships, four MVP awards, and numerous All-Star selections—speak volumes about his abilities and accomplishments. However, the title of "greatest" often evokes comparisons to legends like Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant, each of whom brought their unique brilliance to the game. While many argue that Jordan’s perfect Finals record solidifies his status, I believe greatness encompasses more than just championships. LeBron’s longevity, adaptability, and impact on the game and society elevate him in this conversation. He has redefined what it means to be a player in today’s NBA, influencing how the game is played and how athletes view their roles in the world. Ultimately, whether or not LeBron is the greatest of all time may remain subjective. What I admire most is his relentless pursuit of greatness, both as an athlete and a role model. He inspires countless individuals to strive for their best, reminding us that success is about more than just individual accolades—it’s about lifting others and making a lasting impact. LeBron James represents a holistic approach to greatness that I aspire to emulate in my own life.