The disproportionate loss of life within marginalized communities during the COVID-19 pandemic changed the trajectory of my career goals from technology to medicine. Before the pandemic, I immersed myself in coding and robotics through organizations such as Black Girls Code, Google, DreamWorks Studios, and NASA. While I valued the creativity and problem-solving technology offered, I could not ignore healthcare the endless images of Black families burying their loved ones. I am determined to become a physician who addresses both medical needs and the social barriers that often shape health outcomes. Motivated to act, I was selected for a competitive Health Equity internship at a medical practice, where I assisted with patient care, coordinated community health fairs, and developed educational materials addressing preventive health initiatives. I witnessed how discrimination, income inequality, and chronic stress contribute to preventable disease in underserved populations, reinforcing the importance of culturally responsive care. Diversity in healthcare is vital to improve trust between patients and doctors. Minority patient outcomes improve when they are treated by underrepresented minority doctors. Although African Americans comprise 14% of the population, they only represent 5% of physicians. The recent dismantling of Diversity Equity and Inclusion (DEI) restricts medical schools from considering race in admissions. Additionally, new federal student loans for professional programs are strictly capped. This significantly lowers access to federal loans for medical school. Thus , discouraging many students of color like myself from applying as we don’t have access to funding medical school without loans. Ultimately, I believe the destruction of DEI in medical school admissions and student loan caps lead to less physician diversity and increases healthcare disparities. Regardless of the roadblocks I may face, I am confident and determined to continue my journey to become a physician. I’m reminded of the critical need for diversity in medicine. My family experienced discrimination in healthcare when my grandmother was denied a heart transplant at only thirty-eight years old. Due to cultural bias and limited understanding of mental health and domestic violence, my family was deprived of a future with her. Now that I’m older, I have a keen awareness of the racism my grandmother endured which ultimately led to her death. People of color comprise roughly 60% of the national organ transplant waiting list, yet there are notable racial disparities in donor rates and transplants. I was compelled to get involved with the National Marrow Donor Program where I help raise awareness about bone marrow donation and support donor recruitment efforts aimed at improving survival for critically ill patients. My advocacy extends beyond clinical spaces. As a Community Active Living Ambassador, I work to improve access to physical activity and safe transportation. In many underserved neighborhoods, outdoor recreation is not always encouraged because of concerns about safety. I was excited to assist with improving street safety by helping construct a 6-foot-wide pedestrian walking lane, enhancing accessibility and safety for residents. Additionally,I promote active transportation through cycling. Guiding residents through physical activity programs and witnessing their enthusiasm reinforced the importance of accessible wellness initiatives. Volunteerism through this program has taught me that health begins long before a patient enters a clinic. While medical care is essential, community engagement is equally important in improving health outcomes. My background in technology remains integral to my vision as a physician. As medicine increasingly integrates innovations such as AI-driven diagnostics and procedures, I aim to ensure these tools expand access rather than deepen disparities. I aspire to join the 5% of underrepresented Black physicians who combines culturally competent care, community advocacy, and innovation to advance health equity.

My heart ached as I watched the nonstop media coverage of families burying their loved ones during the COVID pandemic. Why was there a disproportionate number of marginalized populations dying? My quest for answers drove my desire to serve my community. To gain better insight, I was selected for a competitive Health Equity internship at a medical practice where I assisted with patient care and coordinated community health fairs. I witnessed how discrimination, income inequality, and chronic stress contribute to preventable disease in underserved populations. To empower patients and improve their overall health, I developed educational materials addressing preventive health initiatives such as mental health, hypertension, vaccinations, heart disease, obesity and other critical health initiatives. My commitment to health equity is deeply personal. I am determined to become a physician who addresses both medical needs and the socioeconomic barriers that often shape health outcomes. My family experienced discrimination in healthcare when my grandmother was denied a heart transplant at only thirty-eight years old. Due to cultural bias and limited understanding of mental health and domestic violence, my family was deprived of a future with her. Minorities comprise roughly 60% of the national organ transplant waiting list, yet there are notable racial disparities in donor rates and transplants. I was compelled to get involved with the National Marrow Donor Program where I help raise awareness about bone marrow donation and support donor recruitment efforts aimed at improving survival for critically ill patients. My commitment to community service also reflects my belief that health is shaped by the environments in which people live. As a Community Active Living Ambassador with Morehouse School of Medicine, I work to improve access to physical activity and safe transportation in underserved communities. Through this role, I help advocate for safer spaces for walking and cycling. I was excited to assist with improving street safety by helping construct a 6-foot-wide pedestrian walking lane, enhancing accessibility for residents. Additionally, I encouraged residents to embrace physical activity as part of their daily lives. Although I owned a bicycle as a child, I rarely used it. In many marginalized neighborhoods, outdoor recreation is not always encouraged because of concerns about safety. As a result, I never fully appreciated cycling as a form of exercise and transportation. Participating in this program transformed my perspective. I felt privileged to serve community members who often face barriers to healthy living. Guiding residents through physical activity programs and witnessing their enthusiasm reinforced the importance of accessible wellness initiatives. These efforts not only promote healthier lifestyles but also strengthen community connections and empower individuals to take an active role in their well-being. Volunteerism through this program has taught me that health begins long before a patient enters a clinic. Empowering youth in my community is equally important to me. Many HBCUs are located in underserved neighborhoods that are disproportionately impacted by gun violence. The children near my campus are inundated with trauma from these shootings, the same trauma I experienced my Freshman year. Paying it forward, I mentor youth in local schools. I hope that my example of resilience will empower youth to create opportunities out of obstacles, and transform their tribulations into triumph. Thus far, I have engaged in community service that focuses on health equity, education, and community empowerment. My volunteer experiences aligns closely with Mrs. Hamerter’ s lifelong commitment to human rights. As a future physician, the support provided through this scholarship would not only invest in my education, but also in the communities I hope to serve throughout my career.

The rich legacy of Black women breaking barriers inspired me at a young age to reach beyond the boundaries placed before me. I immersed myself in coding and robotics through organizations such as Black Girls Code, Google, and DreamWorks Studios. While I appreciated the creativity and innovation technology offered, the COVID-19 pandemic changed the direction of my future. Watching marginalized communities disproportionately suffer and lose loved ones revealed the deep healthcare disparities that exist in underserved communities. I am determined to become a physician who addresses both medical needs and the social barriers that often shape health outcomes. Motivated to act, I was selected for a competitive Health Equity internship at a medical practice, where I assisted with patient care, coordinated community health fairs, and developed educational materials focused on breast cancer awareness, mental health, hypertension, vaccinations, heart disease, and obesity prevention. I witnessed how discrimination, income inequality, and chronic stress contribute to preventable diseases in underserved populations, reinforcing the importance of culturally responsive healthcare. My commitment to service has continued throughout college. I have intentionally dedicated my time to projects centered on health equity, education, food insecurity, and community empowerment. One of my most meaningful experiences has been serving as an Active Living Ambassador with the Morehouse School of Medicine REACH Program, where I participate in wellness outreach, environmental audits, and health promotion initiatives in underserved Atlanta communities. Through this work, I have encouraged healthier lifestyles while learning how environmental conditions directly impact health outcomes. My passion for culturally competent medicine is also deeply personal. Years before I was born, my grandmother was denied a heart transplant at only thirty-eight years old. As I grew older, I came to understand how cultural bias, and limited awareness of mental health and domestic violence contributed to the inequities she faced. People of color comprise roughly 60% of the national organ transplant waiting list, yet there are notable racial disparities in donor rates and transplants. Her experience motivated me to become involved with the National Marrow Donor Program, where I support donor recruitment and raise awareness about bone marrow donation for patients with blood disorders. This experience taught me how advocacy and education can save lives. My background in technology remains integral to my vision as a physician. As medicine increasingly integrates innovations such as AI-driven diagnostics and procedures, I aim to ensure these tools expand access rather than deepen disparities. My goal is to become a physician who advocates for underserved communities and provides compassionate, culturally competent care. I hope to follow the example of the female physicians who opened doors before me by continuing to break barriers in medicine and helping future generations of women feel seen, supported, and represented in healthcare.

The disproportionate loss of life within marginalized communities during the COVID-19 pandemic reshaped my academic and professional goals, redirecting my path from technology to medicine. While I valued technology, I could not ignore healthcare disparities as I watched images of Black families burying their loved ones. I am determined to become a physician who addresses both medical needs and the social barriers that often shape health outcomes. Motivated to act, I was selected for a competitive Health Equity internship at a medical practice, where I assisted with patient care, coordinated community health fairs, and developed educational materials addressing preventive health initiatives such as breast cancer awareness, mental health, hypertension, vaccinations, heart disease, obesity and other health initiatives. Many preventable diseases disproportionately impact underserved populations. I witnessed how discrimination, income inequality, and chronic stress contribute to preventable disease in underserved populations, reinforcing the importance of culturally responsive care.  My commitment to culturally competent medicine is deeply personal. Years before I was born, my family experienced healthcare inequity when my grandmother was denied a heart transplant at only thirty-eight years old. Decisions influenced by cultural bias and limited understanding of mental health and domestic violence deprived my family of a future with her. Now that I’m older, I have a keen awareness of the racism my grandmother endured which ultimately led to her death. People of color comprise about 60% of the national organ transplant waiting list, yet there are significant racial disparities in donor rates and transplants. I was compelled to get involved with the National Marrow Donor Program where I help raise awareness about bone marrow donation and support donor recruitment efforts aimed at improving outcomes for patients with blood disorders. This taught me how advocacy and education can directly save lives. My prayer is that no child will grow up without a loved due to lack of humane healthcare and lack of access. My advocacy continues and extends beyond clinical spaces. As a Community Active Living Ambassador with the Morehouse School of Medicine REACH Program, I work to improve access to physical activity and safe transportation in marginalized neighborhoods by organizing community-based programs and helping residents navigate barriers to wellness. These experiences taught me that health begins long before a patient enters a clinic. My commitment to making a difference in a world marred by injustice has deepened since attending a HBCU. Many HBCU campuses are located in underserved neighborhoods that are disproportionately impacted by gun violence. The children near my campus are inundated with trauma from these shootings; the same trauma which I experienced on campus my Freshman year. Spelman College’s mission statement aligns with my belief of commitment to positive social change through service. Paying it forward, I volunteer at a local Elementary school. I hope that my example of resilience will empower youth to create opportunities out of obstacles, and transform their tribulations into triumphs. By reducing the financial impact of college tuition, the Junie Project Scholarship would allow me to focus fully on opportunities that will help me to grow as a future physician. A dream goal for me is to travel to attend the SNMA annual conference. It would be an amazing opportunity to meet and collaborate with underrepresented premedical students who are equally passionate about closing healthcare gaps for underserved populations.

Growing up during the Black Lives Matter movement, I had no idea of its impact on medicine. The significant death rates of African Americans during the COVID pandemic motivated me to become a physician. I put my concern into action and was chosen for a competitive Health Equity Internship. Besides direct patient care and organizing community health fairs, I developed social media based education on critical health topics that negatively impact marginalized communities. My freshman year at Spelman College was filled with challenges, growth and enriching experiences. I eagerly joined campus health organizations that align with my commitment to becoming a change-agent in medicine. However, I was not prepared for the challenges. Perplexed by fireworks, I realized the piercing sound was gunshots. I ran with the crowd and got into a car with friends for safety. Unexpectedly, our driver left us in an alley and ran with his gun towards the gunfire. The fear of what I had experienced was overwhelming. I suppressed my thoughts while adjusting to a new state, friends and courses. I struggled to stay motivated and failed exams. Determined to redirect my focus, I sought mental health support and tutoring to get back on track academically and socially. I was ready to change the world! Once again without warning, my eyes were opened to a world I knew nothing about. White Underbelly is a YouTube channel known for interviewing and exploiting homeless people, prostitutes, drug addicts and gang members. In disbelief and tears, I watched a 20 minute video of my 13 year-old cousin with over 100,000 viewers. Why was she being labeled as a prostitute and not an abused child who is being sex trafficked? For months I’ve watched the legal and social systems fail her. Social Workers, lawyers, police officers and judges are aware of her circumstances. However, my family was told that my cousin can legally refuse help. Where is the justice!!??? My commitment to making a difference in a world marred by injustice has deepened. Many HBCU campuses are located in disadvantaged neighborhoods that are disproportionately impacted by gun violence and victims of sex trafficking. Children near Spelman’s campus are inundated with trauma. It is my duty to use my voice of advocacy coupled with my life experiences to make a difference. Paying it forward, I volunteer at a local Elementary school. I hope that my example of resilience will empower youth to create opportunities out of obstacles, and transform their tribulations into triumphs. I’ve learned a lot about the harsh injustices that marginalized communities face. Merging my passion for medicine with my commitment to social change, I envision a medical practice where patients have access to holistic care. Through networking and volunteering, I can leverage my position as a physician to affect meaningful change by supporting nonprofits aimed at improving the lives of vulnerable youth. My life’s mission as a physician is to build a legacy where healing is accomplished through education, compassion, cultural competency, equality and philanthropy.

Growing up during the Black Lives Matter movement, I had no idea of its impact on medicine. The significant death rates of African Americans during the COVID pandemic motivated me to become a physician. I put my concern into action and was chosen for a competitive Health Equity Internship. Besides direct patient care and organizing community health fairs, I developed social media based education on critical health topics that negatively impact marginalized communities. My freshman year at Spelman College was filled with challenges, growth and enriching experiences. I eagerly joined campus health organizations that align with my commitment to becoming a change-agent in medicine. However, I was not prepared for the challenges. Perplexed by fireworks, I realized the piercing sound was gunshots. I ran with the crowd and got into a car with friends for safety. Unexpectedly, our driver left us in an alley and ran with his gun towards the gunfire. The fear of what I had experienced was overwhelming. I suppressed my thoughts while adjusting to a new state, friends and courses. I struggled to stay motivated and failed exams. Determined to redirect my focus, I sought mental health support and tutoring to get back on track academically and socially. I was ready to change the world! Once again without warning, my eyes were opened to a world I knew nothing about. White Underbelly is a YouTube channel known for interviewing and exploiting homeless people, prostitutes, drug addicts and gang members. In disbelief and tears, I watched a 20 minute video of my 13 year-old cousin with over 100,000 viewers. Why was she being labeled as a prostitute and not an abused child who is being sex trafficked? For months I’ve watched the legal and social systems fail her. Social Workers, lawyers, police officers and judges are aware of her circumstances. However, my family was told that my cousin can legally refuse help. Where is the justice!!??? My commitment to making a difference in a world marred by injustice has deepened. Many HBCU campuses are located in disadvantaged neighborhoods that are disproportionately impacted by gun violence and victims of sex trafficking. Children near Spelman’s campus are inundated with trauma. It is my duty to use my voice of advocacy coupled with my life experiences to make a difference. Paying it forward, I volunteer at a local Elementary school. I hope that my example of resilience will empower youth to create opportunities out of obstacles, and transform their tribulations into triumphs. I’ve learned a lot about the harsh injustices that marginalized communities face. Merging my passion for medicine with my commitment to social change, I envision a medical practice where patients have access to holistic care. Through networking and volunteering, I can leverage my position as a physician to affect meaningful change by supporting nonprofits aimed at improving the lives of vulnerable youth. My life’s mission as a physician is to build a legacy where healing is accomplished through education, compassion, cultural competency, equality and philanthropy.

My passion to advocate for the voiceless grew into my aspirations to heal others through beauty. “ It’s All In Your Head “, was the title from the reality tv series Dr Pimple Popper which I loved. The episode featured Natalie, a black woman with dark spots diffusely covering her arms and legs. Embarrassed, she struggled to hide her spots with makeup. Expecting a solution, Natalie was told that her skin condition was psychological. With millions of viewers and negative online comments, she felt dismissed and humiliated. Cultural competency in the beauty industry is vital. Recently, a nurse posted a TikTok video about a non-Black doctor misdiagnosing a Black patient as hearing voices and mentally ill because she patted her itchy weave! Thus, emphasizing the necessity for Black doctors. Driven to be a part of the solution for disparities of representation of BIPOC professionals, effective products and services in the beauty industry, I’m honored to take part in making history this Fall semester as the first HBCU to offer a Cosmetic Chemistry curriculum that addresses the needs of Black beauty consumers. With a major in Health Sciences and a minor in Cosmetic Chemistry, I”m looking forward to courses such as Entrepreneurship in Cosmetics and Black Hair Lab. There’s a disproportionate number of black women wearing wigs to hide the devastation of hair loss. To gain hands-on skills in skin and hair care services, I plan to take courses at a Cosmetology School. As a future Dermatologist specializing in medical and cosmetic services, I envision opening a MedSpa with a mission to heal scars internally and externally. I had the privilege of training this summer with the American Academy of Dermatology’s Pathways program aimed at increasing the number of dermatologists who are underrepresented minorities. My experience as a business owner leading a team of teen entrepreneurs taught me valuable lessons on how to successfully execute and grow a business. Turning shame and depression into beauty, I dream of creating an affordable brand of skin and hair products that will be available in stores and E-commerce. My commitment to making a difference in a world marred by disparities and injustice has deepened. Unbeknownst to me, White Underbelly is a YouTube channel known for interviewing and exploiting prostitutes, drug addicts and gang members. In disbelief, I watched a video of my 13 year-old cousin with over 100,000 viewers. Tearfully, I reflected on the fun we had together. Why was she being labeled as a prostitute and not an abused child who is being sex trafficked? Social Workers, lawyers, police officers and judges are aware of her circumstances. Nevertheless, my family was told a sex trafficked minor can legally refuse help. Where is the justice!!??? Merging my passion for beauty with a commitment to social justice, I hope to empower vulnerable girls to create opportunities out of obstacles, and transform their tribulations into triumphs. Community organizing will be invaluable in promoting initiatives to end sex trafficking. Through networking with nonprofit organizations that service teens like my cousin, I can leverage my position as a physician specializing in the beauty industry to affect meaningful change aimed towards instilling self love, confidence and hope. I would find pure joy mentoring abused girls and healing their scars with pampering services at my MedSpa. I’m determined to empower them to see just how beautiful they are inside and out! Although my aspirations require hard work with extensive training, I believe I can make a difference for BIPOC consumers. Receiving this scholarship puts me one step closer to reaching my dream of becoming a trailblazing cosmetic Dermatologist and philanthropist.

Denied a life without my grandmother, my heart ached for how she died. Her denial of a heart transplant was inhumane. How could the transplant committee, composed of majority white male doctors, deny a 38-year-old mother? Did the committee see her as a loving mom of three children? Or did they only consider her background as a teen mom and high school dropout who suffered with mental health challenges due to years of abuse? The doctors’ denial was based on cultural bias and lack of knowledge, empathy and awareness surrounding mental illness and domestic violence. The medical system failed my grandmother. Sadly, mistreatment still exists. The disproportionate loss of lives within marginalized communities during the COVID pandemic changed the trajectory of my focus from technology to medicine. I had enjoyed coding and robotics with organizations that included Black Girls Code, Google, DreamWorks Studios and NASA. However, I could not ignore the healthcare disparities. During the pandemic lockdown, essential workers risked their lives to serve the public. Tragically, they were forced to either go to work or jeopardize losing their ability to financially support their families. Hispanics and Blacks comprise the majority of the workforce as non medical essential workers in the US. Like walking into a minefield of bombs, these workers died at a significantly higher rate. I put my concern and passion into action and was chosen for a competitive Health Equity internship at a medical practice. Besides direct patient care and coordinating health fairs, I developed educational materials on heart disease, diabetes, hypertension, cancer screenings, mental health and other critical health initiatives. Many preventable diseases disproportionately impact underserved populations. Discrimination, income inequality, and racism contribute to chronic stress in minorities leading to poor health. Trust between patients and doctors is vital. Minority patient outcomes improve when they are treated by underrepresented minority doctors. Although African Americans comprise 14% of the population, they only represent 5% of physicians. Similarly, Hispanics make up 18% yet represent only 2.4% of US physicians. Language barriers can lead to misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment. Most recently, the Supreme Court ruled to end Affirmative Action. The court’s decision restricts medical schools from considering race in admissions. I believe this ruling leads to less physician diversity and increases healthcare disparities. Spelman College’s mission statement aligns with my belief of commitment to positive social change through service. I joined campus medical organizations which align with my desire of ensuring equal access of care. My participation in Harvard Medical School’s 4- year mentorship program aims to increase representation of Black doctors. Paying it forward, I mentor Elementary students in disadvantaged communities to dream big and pursue a career in medicine. I plan to further explore health issues impacting underserved populations through coursework, research and internships. I’m excited about studying abroad this summer in Oaxaca, Mexico where I will work with doctors. My training will enhance my competence to treat diverse patients. Merging my passion for medicine with a commitment to social justice, I envision a medical practice where patients have access to holistic and compassionate care. Through collective philanthropic efforts and networking with nonprofit organizations, I can leverage my position as a physician to affect meaningful change aimed towards improving the lives of youth. I hope to empower youth to create opportunities out of obstacles, and transform their tribulations into triumphs. I have learned the importance of mental wellbeing, mentorship and advocacy. Diversity is crucial in all areas of public service. My drive and prayer for becoming a trailblazing doctor and philanthropist is that no child will grow up without a grandmother due to lack of humane treatment.

I was not prepared for the challenges of starting college. Perplexed by midday fireworks in September, I realized the piercing sound was gunshots. For safety, I jumped into a friend’s car who abandoned me and ran with his gun towards the shooting. The fear of what I had experienced was overwhelming. I suppressed my thoughts while adjusting to a new state, friends and courses. I rejected all invitations to social gatherings and struggled to stay motivated academically. Failing exams the first month of college was devastating. Determined to redirect my focus, I got out of my comfort zone. Utilizing my college resources, I sought mental health support and tutoring to get back on track academically and socially. Just as things seemed to improve, I was faced with a bigger challenge. My eyes were opened to a world I knew nothing about. White Underbelly is a YouTube channel known for interviewing and exploiting homeless people, prostitutes, drug addicts and gang members. In disbelief, I watched a video of my 13 year-old cousin with over 100,000 viewers. Tearfully, I reflected on our time together sliding down water slides. Why was she being labeled as a prostitute and not an abused child who is being sex trafficked? Social Workers, lawyers, police officers and judges are aware of her circumstances. Nevertheless, my family was told a sex trafficked minor can legally refuse help. Where is the justice!!??? My passion to advocate for the voiceless grew into my aspirations to become a physician. Since starting college, my commitment to making a difference in a world marred by injustice has deepened. The children near my campus are inundated with trauma from shootings. Additionally, Black girls are disproportionately exploited and sex trafficked. Spelman College’s mission statement aligns with my belief of commitment to positive social change through service. I truly believe it is my duty to use my voice of advocacy coupled with my life experiences to make a difference. Paying it forward, I mentor youth in local schools. Mentoring high risk girls can be a vital tool for preventing sex trafficking. I’m committed to empowering youth to create opportunities out of obstacles, and transform their tribulations into triumphs. My challenges have taught me the importance and value of mental wellbeing, advocacy and mentorship. The experience I gained while serving marginalized communities as Health Equity intern gave me a better understanding of how childhood trauma can adversely affect a person’s health as an adult. A patient’s cultural background, economic status, family dynamics, environmental and social history impacts their physical health. Many preventable diseases disproportionately impact minority populations. Besides direct patient care and coordinating health fairs, I developed social media educational materials on heart disease, diabetes, cancer screenings, mental health and other critical health initiatives. Merging my passion for medicine with my commitment to social change, I envision a community based medical practice where patients have access to holistic and compassionate care. Through collective philanthropic efforts and networking with nonprofits I can leverage my position as a physician to affect meaningful change aimed at improving the lives of high risk youth.

Denied a life without my grandmother, my heart ached as I listened to the story of how she died 30 years ago. Her denial of a heart transplant was inhumane. How could the transplant committee deny a 38 year-old mother who fought to care for her three children ? According to the committee, my grandmother’s home life was unstable due to a history of mental health challenges stemming from years of domestic violence. The doctors’ denial was based on cultural bias and lack of knowledge, empathy and awareness surrounding mental illness and domestic violence. The medical system failed my family. I am driven to be a part of the solution for healthcare disparities. I excelled academically and received a competitive position as a Health Equity Intern at a Black owned medical practice. Besides patient care and coordinating community health fairs, I developed social media based educational materials on critical health initiatives that included mental health. The persona of the “ Strong Black Woman” impacts their mental health. Many Black women are raising children by themselves and fear police brutality against their sons. Labels of being strong trap Black women into working twice as hard yet receiving less. Black women are discriminated against in employment, education and healthcare. Sacrificing themselves leads to burnout, health and mental problems. They quietly suffer emotionally and are forced to wear the badge of honor of being strong. This stereotype is damaging because it misguides society into thinking that she can do it all on her own without receiving help which further isolates Black women. Upon completion of my internship, I was excited to start my journey at Spelman College. I was not prepared for my eyes being opened to a world I knew nothing about. White Underbelly is a YouTube channel known for interviewing and exploiting homeless people, prostitutes, drug addicts and gang members. In disbelief, I watched a video of my 13 year-old cousin with over 100,000 viewers. Tearfully, I reflected on our time together sliding down water slides. Why was she being labeled as a prostitute and not an abused child who is being sex trafficked? Social Workers, lawyers, police officers and judges are aware of her circumstances. Nevertheless, my family was told a sex trafficked minor can legally refuse help despite the known brainwashing which occurs from the abusers. Where is the justice!!??? My passion to advocate for the voiceless grew into my aspirations to become a physician. My commitment to making a difference in a world marred by injustice has deepened. Black girls are disproportionately abused, exploited and sex trafficked. Spelman College’s mission statement aligns with my belief of commitment to positive social change through service. I truly believe it is my duty to use my voice of advocacy coupled with my life experiences to make a difference. Paying it forward, I mentor youth in local schools. Mentoring high risk girls like my cousin can be a vital tool for preventing sex trafficking. I’m committed to empowering youth to create opportunities out of obstacles, and transform their tribulations into triumphs. Through networking with nonprofits, I can leverage my position as a physician to affect meaningful change aimed at improving the lives of high risk youth. My career goal is to build a medical practice that integrates physical and psychological wellness that eradicates the negative stigma associated with mental health services. My drive to become a philanthropic physician and prayer is that no child will grow up without a grandmother due to lack of humane healthcare and no Black girl’s life will be lost to sex trafficking.

Growing up during the movement of Black Lives Matter, I had no idea of its impact on medicine. The disproportionate death rates of African Americans during COVID-19 pandemic unmasked racism in healthcare. Chosen for a Health Equity internship at a Black owned medical practice solidified my desire to become a physician. There’s a disproportionate number of black women who suffer from hair loss. Cultural competency is vital. Recently, a TikTok video showed a non-Black doctor misdiagnosing a Black patient as mentally ill and hearing voices because she patted her itchy weave! Minority patient outcomes improve when they are treated by underrepresented minority doctors. Spelman College’s curriculum challenges me to explore the causes, effects and solutions to racism in healthcare. As a member of Spelman’s Science of Cosmetic Chemistry organization, my goal is to gain knowledge to create skin and hair products that are formulated for Black people available in stores and E-Commerce. I hope to restore their confidence and quality of life. The support I’ve received from Black mentors and professors has been invaluable. My HBCU curriculum has challenged me to look deeper into the causes, effects and solutions to racism in healthcare. I’m honored to continue the legacy of attending a HBCU where I am celebrated as an African American and encouraged to succeed. Paying it forward, I mentor disadvantaged Black youth to become doctors. Merging my passion for medicine with my commitment to social change, I envision a practice where patients have access to holistic and compassionate care.

I was not prepared for the challenges of starting college. Perplexed by midday fireworks in September, I realized the piercing sound was gunshots. For safety, I jumped into a friend’s car who abandoned me and ran with his gun towards the shooting. The fear of what I had experienced was overwhelming. I suppressed my thoughts while adjusting to a new state, friends and courses. I isolated myself and struggled to stay motivated academically. As a pre-medicine student, failing exams the first month of college was devastating. Determined to redirect my focus, I got out of my comfort zone. Utilizing my college resources, I sought mental health support and tutoring to get back on track academically and socially. Just as things seemed to improve, I was faced with a bigger challenge. My eyes were opened to a world I knew nothing about. White Underbelly is a YouTube channel known for interviewing and exploiting homeless people, prostitutes, drug addicts and gang members. In disbelief, I watched a 20 minute video of my 13 year-old cousin with over 100,000 viewers. Tearfully, I reflected on the last time we were sliding down water slides together. Why was she being labeled as a prostitute and not an abused child who is being sex trafficked? Social Workers, lawyers, police officers and judges are aware of her circumstances. Nevertheless, my family was told a sex trafficked minor can legally refuse help despite knowledge of the brainwashing from traffickers. Where is the justice!!??? My commitment to making a difference in a world marred by injustice has deepened. My life experiences and passion to advocate for the voiceless grew into my aspirations to become a physician. My experience as a Health Equity intern has taught me the reality of disparities and gave me tools to address it. Many Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) campuses are located in underserved neighborhoods that are disproportionately impacted by gun violence. The children near my campus are inundated with trauma from these shootings. Additionally, I grew up in Los Angeles county which has the highest rate of minors who are sex trafficked . Black girls are disproportionately exploited. Spelman College’s mission statement aligns with my belief of commitment to positive social change through service. Paying it forward, I mentor youth in local schools. Mentoring high risk girls can be a vital tool for preventing sex trafficking. I hope that my example of resilience will empower youth to create opportunities out of obstacles, and transform their tribulations into triumphs. My challenges have taught me the importance and value of mental wellbeing, advocacy and mentorship. I have a better understanding of how childhood trauma can adversely affect a person’s health as an adult. A patient’s cultural background, economic status,family dynamics, environmental and social history impacts their physical health. Merging my passion for medicine with my commitment to social change, I envision a medical practice where patients have access to holistic and compassionate care. Through philanthropic efforts, I can leverage my position as a physician to affect meaningful change by supporting nonprofits aimed at improving the lives of high risk youth. I entered college with a focus of academic excellence. As I witnessed the suffering and trauma that others experience, my pursuit of medicine has taken on a deeper meaning. Serving my community will require adaptability when things don’t go as planned; self confidence despite failures; tenacity to advocate for others; endurance with an understanding that success takes time and effort; and passion to make a difference in the lives of others.

Growing up, I witnessed the devastating effects of mental illness. Denied a life without my grandmother, my heart ached as I listened to the story of how she died 30 years ago. From my mother’s recollection, my grandmother’s denial of a heart transplant was inhumane. How could the transplant committee deny a 38 year-old mother who fought to care for her three children ? According to the committee, my grandmother’s home life was unstable due to a history of mental health challenges stemming from years of domestic violence. The doctors’ denial was based on cultural bias and lack of knowledge, empathy and awareness surrounding mental illness and domestic violence. Traumatized by finding his mother dead in their home, my uncle was diagnosed with Schizophrenia at the age of 15. For the last 30 years, my family has fought to ensure adequate care for my uncle. I’ve seen the injustice our society has placed on this vulnerable population. Negative stigma, fear, budget cuts, inadequate mental health facilities and lack of support for families has forced many mentally ill patients to commit suicide or live on the streets. Like many families, the medical system failed my family. I am driven to be a part of the solution for healthcare disparities. I excelled academically and received a competitive position as a Health Equity Intern at a Black owned medical practice. Besides direct patient care and coordinating health fairs, I developed educational materials on critical health initiatives such as heart disease, cancer screenings and mental health. Inequality of mental health services for African Americans still impacts our communities. Chronic stress can lead to poor physical and mental health. Historically, Black churches are vital and provide strength and resources to the community. Unfortunately, there’s a negative stigma of mental illness imposed by society. Growing up in church, I learned about the power of prayer and “laying down your burdens before the Lord “. Consequently, seeking mental health services outside of prayer is not encouraged or discussed. Many Black Christians are left to feel guilty for not feeling better after “ praying without ceasing”. Ashamed, Black Christians suffer in silence. Upon completion of my internship, I was accepted into Spelman College. Excited to start my college journey, I was not prepared for the challenges. Perplexed by midday fireworks in September, I realized the piercing sound was gunshots. For safety, I jumped into a friend’s car who abandoned me and ran with his gun towards the shooting. The fear of what I had experienced was overwhelming. I suppressed my thoughts while adjusting to a new state, friends and courses. Dismissing my knowledge of mental wellbeing, I isolated myself and struggled to stay motivated academically. Failing exams the first month of college was devastating. Determined to redirect my focus, I drew upon my mental health education and experience from my family and internship. Utilizing my college resources, I sought mental health support and tutoring to get back on track academically and socially. Just as things seemed to improve, I was faced with a bigger challenge. My eyes were opened to a world I knew nothing about. White Underbelly is a YouTube channel known for interviewing and exploiting homeless people, prostitutes, drug addicts and gang members. In disbelief, I watched a video of my 13 year-old cousin with over 100,000 viewers. Tearfully, I reflected on our time together sliding down water slides. Why was she being labeled as a prostitute and not an abused child who is being sex trafficked? Social Workers, lawyers, police officers and judges are aware of her circumstances. Nevertheless, my family was told a sex trafficked minor can legally refuse help despite the known brainwashing which occurs from the abusers. Where is the justice!!??? My passion to advocate for the voiceless grew into my aspirations to become a physician. Since starting college, my commitment to making a difference in a world marred by injustice has deepened. The children near my campus are inundated with trauma from shootings. Additionally, Black girls are disproportionately exploited and sex trafficked. Spelman College’s mission statement aligns with my belief of commitment to positive social change through service. I truly believe it is my duty to use my voice of advocacy coupled with my life experiences to make a difference. Paying it forward, I mentor youth in local schools. Mentoring high risk girls can be a vital tool for preventing sex trafficking. I’m committed to empowering youth to create opportunities out of obstacles, and transform their tribulations into triumphs. My challenges have taught me the importance and value of mental wellbeing, advocacy and mentorship. I have a better understanding of how childhood trauma can adversely affect a person’s health as an adult. A patient’s cultural background, economic status, family dynamics, and social history impacts their mental and physical health. Merging my passion for medicine with my commitment to social change, I envision a community based medical practice where patients have access to holistic and compassionate care. Through collective philanthropic efforts and networking with nonprofits I can leverage my position as a physician to affect meaningful change aimed at improving the lives of high risk youth. My career goal as a physician and philanthropist is to build a community centered medical practice that integrates physical and psychological wellness that eradicates the negative stigma associated with mental health services. My drive to become a physician and prayer is that no child will grow up without a grandmother due to lack of humane healthcare.

I was not prepared for the challenges of starting college. Perplexed by afternoon fireworks in September, I realized the piercing sound was gunshots. My friends and I jumped into our classmate’s car for safety. Unexpectedly, he abandoned us in an alley and ran with a gun towards the gunfire. I convinced my hysterical friends to exit the car and ran back to campus. The fear of what I had experienced was overwhelming. For weeks, I suppressed my thoughts while adjusting to a new state, friends and courses. The long distance from my family left me feeling alone. I was ready to quit and move back home. I isolated myself and rejected all invitations to social gatherings. I struggled to stay motivated academically and failed multiple exams. I began to feel hopeless and thought my future plans were ruined. As a pre-medical student, I continuously face significant pressure to succeed in order to receive acceptance into medical school. I’ve been told to focus on high GPA scores, leadership, community service, awards, research and internships. Exhausted, I face the challenge of competing academically and jeopardizing my mental well-being in order to win the prize of medical school acceptance. Failing my exams the first month of starting college was devastating. Determined to redirect my focus, I got out of my comfort zone and asked for help. Utilizing my college resources, I sought mental health support and got back on track academically and socially. To maintain mental strength, I explored new strategies including creating vision boards and dancing. Surprisingly, aromatherapy has become an essential component of my self care routine. The scents of candles help calm and relax my negative thoughts, and help me to sleep. I love trying new scents. During the pandemic, I strengthened my bond with my grandmother who has dementia. I enjoy calling her weekly listening to her stories of the good ole days. Helping others has improved my mental wellbeing. I am not alone in experiencing the trauma of random gunfire. Many Historically Black Colleges Universities (HBCU) campuses are located in underserved neighborhoods that are disproportionately impacted by gun violence. The children near my campus are inundated with trauma from these shootings. Spelman College’s mission statement aligns with my belief of commitment to positive social change through service. I truly believe it is my duty to use my voice of advocacy coupled with my life experiences to make a difference. Paying it forward, I mentor youth in local schools. I’m committed to educating students on the importance of mental well-being and breaking the stigma surrounding psychological care. I hope that my example of true grit will empower youth to create opportunities out of obstacles, and transform their tribulations into triumphs. If I could offer any advice to teens experiencing mental health difficulties, the first thing I would advise is to listen to yourself. Don’t ignore sad or anxious feelings. No problem is too small to ask for help. Also, find what works best for you. Although the traditional way of speaking to a counselor can be effective, don't be afraid to explore alternative methods. Lastly, don’t forget to connect with other people even if it’s virtually. Although mental instability amongst female students can be tremendous, my strengths has allowed me to overcome many challenges . Adaptability, determination, and resiliency are characteristics I possess. My career goal is to build a community centered medical practice that integrates physical and psychological wellness that eradicates the negative stigma associated with mental health services.

I got it from my grandmama, an “ unsung hero” who made history! Roberta Hamptonie’s dream of my mother becoming a doctor started when she was 11 years old. She spoke the words “ you might as well be a doctor “. Her wisdom and hustle to make sure my mama succeeded was relentless. For 10 years, she talked to anyone that would listen that her daughter was going to be a doctor. Although her health declined, she never gave up on her dream. On the day of my mother’s college graduation, grandma was transferred to a hospital to be evaluated for a heart transplant. My mom walked into that hospital with her 1 year old sister on her hip and handed grandma the college diploma that she earned! Denied a life without grandma, my heart ached as I listened to the story of how she died 30 years ago. From my mother’s recollection, grandma’s denial of a heart transplant was racially inhumane. How could the transplant committee, composed of majority white male doctors, deny a 38-year-old mother who fought to care for three children ? The doctors’ denial was based on cultural bias and lack of knowledge, empathy and awareness surrounding domestic violence. Devastated, my mom moved back home to care for her mother and two siblings. For 3 years, grandma became even more intentional with her conversations with my mom becoming a doctor. In God’s timing, her health improved and she said to my mom, “it’s time for you to become that doctor “. Grandma got the ball rolling and my mom was accepted into every medical school that she applied to. Roberta Hamptonie had done it again. Although grandma died a few months after my mom started medical school, her dream still lives. The COVID-19 pandemic changed how I saw my future. As I watched the news, it was shocking to see that racism still impacts today’s healthcare system. The highest incidence of COVID-19 related hospitalizations and deaths were amongst African Americans. Admittedly, I couldn’t help but think back to the death of grandma. Would my mother die from treating critically ill COVID patients and leave behind her children and future grandchildren? Determined to redirect my focus, I became driven to become a part of the solution for healthcare disparities. I was accepted for a competitive position as a Health Equity Intern at a medical practice. Sadly, many diseases disproportionately impact Black families. I’m committed to educating my community. Besides patient care in the office setting, I develop social media based educational videos and infographics on critical health topics such as cancer screenings, mental health, hypertension, diabetes and vaccinations. Ultimately, my dream is to become a doctor. My drive and prayer is that no black child will grow up without a grandmother due to lack of humane healthcare. Roberta’s dream is multiplying! She was the least expected to succeed; a teen mom, high school dropout with mental health challenges. Her success still lives on! I got it from my grandmama !!!

Death was an unfamiliar concept to me until the COVID-19 pandemic. The significant number of deaths changed the trajectory of my focus from technology to medicine. Prior to the pandemic, I enjoyed training in coding and robotics with organizations that included Black Girls Code, DreamWorks Studios, Google and NASA. Despite my passion for technology, I could not ignore the devastation and loss of lives amongst marginalized communities. I developed a new appreciation for the medical field. Admittedly, I worried my mother, a frontline healthcare worker, would die from COVID disease. Anxiously awaiting her return from work, I became enthralled with watching Dr. Pimple Popper tv show. I was inspired by how the doctor successfully treated the most challenging dermatologic cases. To feed my new interest while also gaining knowledge and experience, I applied to programs within the medical field. I was excited to be chosen for a competitive Health Equity internship at a medical practice. I developed social media based educational materials on critical topics such as heart disease, cancer screenings, vaccinations and other health initiatives. While working with patients, I noticed many women who suffered from hair loss. Historically, a woman’s hair was associated with her beauty. As far back as biblical times, a woman’s hair was described as her crown and glory. Today, social media exacerbates this problem. Sadly, this misperception has left many women with hair loss devastated which can lead to depression, shame, avoidance of socialization and more. Spelman College’s curriculum challenges me to look deeper into the causes, effects and solutions to women’s health issues. I’m looking forward to studying abroad this summer in Italy and Oaxaca. I hope to further explore and analyze significant health issues impacting their communities and how it compares to the U.S. healthcare system. As a member of Spelman’s Society of Cosmetic Chemistry organization, my goal is to gain knowledge to create skin and hair products. I hope to restore the confidence and quality of life for women who suffer from significant dermatologic conditions. The guidance from Harvard Medical School’s mentorship program has solidified my desire to become a physician. Spelman College’s mission statement aligns with my belief of commitment to positive social change through service. Paying it forward, my goal is to inspire and mentor youth in my community to dream big. My past experience as a jewelry business owner, with a team of twenty teen entrepreneurs, taught me valuable lessons on how to successfully execute and grow a business. I dream of creating an affordable brand of skin and hair products that will be available in local stores such as Target. My training in coding and robotics will enhance my skills of creating products and developing procedures utilizing the latest technology for hair transplants. Much work is needed in closing the gap of healthcare disparities and increasing the number of female doctors. I envision a community based medical practice where patients have access to culturally relevant and compassionate care. Receiving this scholarship puts me one step closer to reaching my dream of becoming a trailblazing Dermatologist.

I was not prepared for the challenges of starting college. Perplexed by sounds of fireworks at lunchtime, I soon realized the piercing sound was gunshots. I aimlessly ran for my life. Luckily, my friend contacted someone to rescue us. Unexpectedly, our driver parked in an alley and took a gun running towards the gunfire. Utilizing survival instincts, I convinced my hysterical friend to exit the car. Walking back to campus, the fear of what I had experienced was overwhelming. For weeks, I suppressed my thoughts while adjusting to a new state, friends and courses. The long distance from my family left me feeling alone. I was ready to quit and move back home. I isolated myself, stopped eating and spent most hours on zoom calls with my parents. I rejected all invitations to school and community activities. I struggled to stay motivated academically and failed multiple exams. Determined to redirect my focus, I sought mental health support and got back on track academically and socially. Prior to the pandemic, I enjoyed training in technology with organizations that included Black Girls Code, DreamWorks Studios, Google and NASA. Despite my passion for technology, I could not ignore the devastation and loss of lives during the COVID pandemic. I developed a new appreciation for the medical field. Spelman College’s curriculum challenges me to look deeper into the causes, effects and solutions to women’s health issues. Historically, a woman’s hair was associated with her beauty. Today, social media exacerbates this problem. Sadly, this misperception has left many women with Alopecia devastated which can lead to depression, shame, and avoidance of socialization. As a member of Spelman’s Society of Cosmetic Chemistry organization, my goal is to gain knowledge to create skin and hair products for women suffering from significant dermatologic disorders. I hope to restore their confidence and quality of life. My past experience as a jewelry business owner taught me valuable lessons on how to successfully execute and grow a business. I dream of creating an affordable brand of skin and hair products that will be available in local stores and E-commerce. My training in coding and robotics will enhance my skills of developing procedures utilizing the latest technology for hair transplants. The adversity I faced starting college taught me the importance of seeking help and utilizing all available resources. The guidance from Harvard Medical School’s mentorship program has solidified my desire to become a physician. Spelman College’s mission statement aligns with my belief of commitment to positive social change through service. Paying it forward, my goal is to inspire and mentor youth in my community to become professionals in the medical field. I envision a community based medical practice where patients have access to culturally relevant and compassionate care. Receiving this scholarship puts me one step closer to reaching my dream of becoming a trailblazing Dermatologist.

Death was an unfamiliar concept to me until the COVID-19 pandemic. The disproportionate loss of lives within marginalized communities changed the trajectory of my focus from technology to medicine. Prior to the pandemic, I enjoyed training in coding and robotics with organizations that included Black Girls Code, Google and NASA. Despite my passion for technology , I could not ignore the racism within healthcare. Chosen for a competitive Health Equity internship at a Black owned medical practice, I developed social media based educational materials on critical health initiatives. Working with patients, I realized that minorities may not seek treatment due to distrust. Minority patient outcomes improve when they are treated by underrepresented minority doctors. Although African Americans comprise 14% of the U.S. population, they only represent 2% of physicians. I believe the Supreme Court’s decision to end Affirmative Action leads to less physician diversity and increases healthcare disparities. With an interest in Dermatology, I’m concerned about the disproportionate number of black women who suffer from alopecia and other significant dermatologic conditions. Cultural competency is vital. Recently, a nurse posted a TikTok video about a non-Black doctor misdiagnosing a Black patient as mentally ill because she patted her weave! The doctor associated hitting her head as a sign of the patient hearing voices. In Black culture, it’s understood that women wearing weaves often “pat” their itchy scalp. Spelman College’s curriculum challenges me to look deeper into the causes, effects and solutions to healthcare disparities. I’m looking forward to studying abroad this summer in Italy and Oaxaca. I hope to further explore and analyze significant health issues impacting their communities and how it compares to the U.S. healthcare system. As a member of Spelman’s Science of Cosmetic Chemistry organization, my goal is to gain knowledge to create skin and hair products that are formulated for Black women. I hope to restore the confidence and quality of life for women of color who suffer from significant dermatologic conditions. I’m grateful to be accepted into Harvard Medical School’s MV3 mentorship program aimed at increasing the number of future Black physicians. Spelman College’s mission statement aligns with my belief of commitment to positive social change through service. Paying it forward, my goal is to inspire and mentor youth in my community to dream big. Receiving this scholarship, puts me one step closer to reaching my dream of becoming a trailblazing Dermatologist. My experience as a jewelry business owner, leading a team of twenty teen entrepreneurs, taught me valuable lessons on how to successfully execute and grow a business. I dream of creating an affordable brand of skin and hair products that will be available in local stores. My training in coding and robotics will enhance my skills of creating products and procedures utilizing the latest technology. Much work is needed in closing the gap of healthcare disparities and increasing minority representation in the medical field. I envision a community based medical practice where patients have access to culturally competent and compassionate care.

Early on, my family recognized the multitude of talents I possess. As a critical thinker, I have an ability to problem solve. At the age of 5, I hacked my dad’s computer and purchased video games. To cultivate my talents in a positive direction, I enrolled in Black Girls Code where I received mentorship from women in S.T.E.M. industries. A rewarding aspect to my experience was networking with companies such as Google and DreamWorks Studios. My experiences reaffirmed my desire to pursue a career in technology. Thus, I sought out innovative opportunities. I attended NASA Space Camps where I participated in robotic space assimilations with astronauts. My interest continued to evolve. At fourteen years old, I invested in a jewelry business. My dedication and leadership talents were infectious. I inspired other young girls to dream big and built a team of teen entrepreneurs. As I continued to succeed, the unthinkable happened. The COVID-19 pandemic drastically changed the world. The disproportionate devastation and loss of lives within marginalized communities changed the trajectory of my focus from technology to medicine. When school closed, television became my stimulus. Scrolling through the channels, I stumbled upon the reality series Dr. Pimple Popper. I was intrigued by how the doctor treated the most difficult patients. With a new interest in Dermatology, I began questioning why there’s a significant number of women in my community who suffer from hair loss. Alopecia in women is devastating and can lead to depression, shame, avoidance of socialization and more. Researching treatment options, I’m inspired by ARTAS Robotic Hair Transplantation clinic which utilizes robot assisted devices and artificial intelligence for hair transplants. This new technology improves patient outcomes with less invasive treatments, less pain , quicker recovery and more natural looking results. Who would have imagined that my childhood adventures, which likely contributed to my parents premature gray hair, would spark my interest in STEM fields and solidify the importance of technology and innovation. My knowledge of technology and experience as an entrepreneur will enhance my skills as a doctor. My career objective is to become a pioneering doctor who makes a difference in the field. My goal is to advocate for dermatological conditions faced by women. With an interest in advancing the use of technology in hair transplantation, I hope to restore the confidence and quality of life for women who suffer from alopecia.

Growing up during the movement of Black Lives Matter, I had no idea of its impact on the healthcare system. Death was an unfamiliar concept to me until 2020. The devastation and loss of lives changed how I envisioned my future. The highest incidence of COVID-19 related hospitalizations and deaths were amongst African Americans. Sadly, reports show that many diseases disproportionately impact minorities. Due to historical distrust stemming from injustices such as the Tuskegee Experiment and limited access to quality healthcare, African Americans may not seek medical care. Additionally, studies continue to demonstrate that Black patient outcomes improve when they are treated by Black doctors. Although African Americans comprise 14% of the U.S. population, they only represent 5% of physicians. Recently, the Supreme Court ruled to end Affirmative Action which restricts medical schools from considering race in admissions. I believe this ruling leads to less physician diversity and increases healthcare disparities. Driven to be a part of the solution for racism in healthcare, I was chosen for a competitive Health Equity internship at a Black owned medical practice. Besides working with patients in the office, I developed social media based educational videos and infographics on critical health topics such as breast cancer awareness, mental health, hypertension, vaccinations and other health initiatives. I’m learning the connection between a person’s social environment and their health. Studies have shown that discrimination, income inequality, violence, and institutional racism contribute to chronic stress in people of color which ultimately makes them more vulnerable to poor health. As I began to work with patients, I soon realized that the barriers to access did not always come from external factors. In fact, many marginalized patients create barriers due to continued distrust of the healthcare system. If given the opportunity, I will continue to develop the necessary knowledge and skills to improve health outcomes in my community. I’m committed to educating individuals on critical health issues which negatively impact Black lives. Educating marginalized patients ultimately closes the gap of iniquity. The support and knowledge I’ve received from mentors has been invaluable and vital to my success. I’m grateful for the continued mentorship from a village of professionals at Spelman College. I’m challenged to look deeper into the causes, effects and solutions to racism in healthcare. Spelman College’s mission statement aligns with my belief of commitment to positive social change through service. I hope to further explore health issues impacting marginalized communities through coursework, research and internships. My goal is to become a physician who advocates to end the long history of racism in healthcare. Diversity in medicine is essential to the very survival of Black lives .

Growing up, I witnessed the devastating effects of mental illness within families. Denied a life without my grandmother, my heart ached as I listened to the story of how she died 30 years ago. From my mother’s recollection, my grandmother’s denial of a heart transplant was inhumane. How could the transplant committee deny a 38 year-old mother who fought to care for her children ? The doctors’ denial was based on cultural bias and lack of knowledge, empathy and awareness surrounding mental illness and domestic violence. A year after my grandmother’s death, my uncle was diagnosed with Schizophrenia at the age of 15. For the last 30 years, my family has fought to ensure adequate care for my uncle. I’ve seen the injustice our society has placed on this vulnerable population. Negative stigma, inadequate mental health facilities, and budget cuts makes it difficult for families to afford and support mentally ill loved ones. For my family, the high cost of comprehensive treatment for my uncle’s care is challenging. I’ve learned the value of unconditional love, advocacy and compassion for others. The devastation and loss of lives during the COVID pandemic changed how I saw my future. It was shocking to learn that lack of access to healthcare still exists. The highest incidence of COVID-19 related hospitalizations and deaths were amongst minority populations. Determined to redirect my focus, I became driven to be a part of the solution for healthcare disparities. I was accepted for a competitive position as a Health Equity Intern at a medical practice. Besides working with patients in the office, I developed social media based educational videos and infographics on critical health topics such as breast cancer awareness, mental health, hypertension, vaccinations and other health initiatives. Utilizing my personal experiences, I’m committed to educating patients on critical health issues which negatively impact underserved communities. Educating disadvantaged patients improves health outcomes and ultimately closes the gap of iniquity. If chosen for the Manny and Sylvia Weiner Scholarship, I would use the money to further my education at Spelman College. Spelman College’s mission statement aligns with my belief of commitment to positive social change through service. I hope to further explore and analyze significant health issues impacting marginalized communities through coursework, research and internships. Receiving the financial support of the Manny and Sylvia Weiner Scholarship puts me one step closer to reaching my career goals. My dream is to become a physician to not only create a better life for myself but to serve others. I hope to build an affordable community medical practice that integrates physical and psychological wellness that eradicates the negative stigma associated with mental health services. I want to be a change-maker in the medical field by giving voices to the voiceless.

Growing up, I witnessed the devastating effects of mental illness within families. Denied a life without my grandmother, my heart ached as I listened to the story of how she died 30 years ago. From my mother’s recollection, my grandmother’s denial of a heart transplant was inhumane. How could the transplant committee deny a 38 year-old mother who fought to care for her children ? The doctors’ denial was based on cultural bias and lack of knowledge, empathy and awareness surrounding mental illness and domestic violence. A year after my grandmother’s death, my uncle was diagnosed with Schizophrenia at the age of 15. For the last 30 years, my mother has fought to ensure adequate care for my uncle. I’ve seen the injustice our society has placed on this vulnerable population. Negative stigma, inadequate mental health facilities, and budget cuts makes it difficult for families to afford and support mentally ill loved ones. For my family, the high cost of comprehensive treatment for my uncle’s care is challenging. I’ve learned the value of unconditional love, advocacy and compassion for others. The devastation and loss of lives during the COVID pandemic changed how I saw my future. It was shocking to learn that lack of access to healthcare still exists. The highest incidence of COVID-19 related hospitalizations and deaths were amongst minority populations. Determined to redirect my focus, I became driven to be a part of the solution for healthcare disparities. I was accepted for a competitive position as a Health Equity Intern at a medical practice. Besides working with patients in the office, I developed social media based educational videos and infographics on critical health topics such as breast cancer awareness, mental health, hypertension, vaccinations and other health initiatives. Utilizing my personal experiences, I’m committed to educating patients on critical health issues which negatively impact underserved communities. Educating disadvantaged patients improves health outcomes and ultimately closes the gap of iniquity. If chosen for the Barbara Devaney Scholarship, I would use the money to further my education at Spelman College. Spelman College’s mission statement aligns with my belief of commitment to positive social change through service. I hope to further explore and analyze significant health issues impacting marginalized communities through coursework, research and internships. Receiving the financial support of the Barbara Devaney Scholarship puts me one step closer to reaching my career goals. My dream is to become a physician to not only create a better life for myself but to serve others. I hope to build an affordable community medical practice that integrates physical and psychological wellness that eradicates the negative stigma associated with mental health services. I want to be a change-maker in the medical field by giving voices to the voiceless.

Although mental instability amongst students can be tremendous, my strengths as a student has allowed me to overcome many challenges . Adaptability, determination, and resiliency are characteristics I possess. High school students face significant pressure to succeed in order to receive acceptance into top colleges. We must focus on high GPA scores, leadership, community service, awards, jobs and sports. For 10 years, I enjoyed competitive soccer where I developed a strong work ethic. My biggest disappointment came after a career ending knee injury which also ended my prospects for receiving athletic scholarships for college. Exhausted, I faced the challenge of competing academically and jeopardizing my mental well-being in order to win the prize of college acceptance. Without warning, life dramatically changed when schools closed during the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic affected the world's mental health in a massive and life-altering way. For high school students, we had the unique challenge of building a resume for college applications in a virtual world. However, nothing compared to the loss of lives from Covid19 infection. The devastation during the pandemic changed the trajectory of how I saw my future. As I watched the news, it was frightening to see that the highest incidence of COVID-19 related hospitalizations and deaths were amongst minorities. The more I researched, the more driven I became to be a part of the solution. I was chosen for a competitive Health Equity internship at a medical practice. Besides working with patients in the office, I develop social media based educational videos and infographics on critical health topics such as breast cancer awareness, mental health, hypertension, vaccinations and other health initiatives. Sadly, reports show that many diseases disproportionately impact minority populations. There’s a connection between a person’s social environment and their health. Studies have shown that discrimination, income inequality, violence, and institutional racism contribute to chronic stress in people of color which ultimately makes them more vulnerable to poor health. As I began to work with patients, I soon realized that the barriers to access did not always come from external factors. In fact, many marginalized patients create barriers due to distrust of the healthcare system. Studies continue to demonstrate that minority patient outcomes improve when they are treated by underrepresented minority doctors. Although African Americans comprise 14% of the U.S. population, they only represent 5% of physicians. Recently, the Supreme Court ruled to end Affirmative Action. The court’s decision restricts medical schools from considering race in admissions. I believe this ruling leads to less physician diversity and increases healthcare disparities. I’m looking forward to starting Spelman College. Their mission statement aligns with my belief of commitment to positive social change through service. I hope to further explore and analyze significant health issues impacting marginalized communities through coursework, research and internships. Much work is needed in closing the gap of healthcare disparities and increasing minority representation in the medical field. Receiving this scholarship puts me one step closer to reaching my dream of becoming a physician advocating for underserved communities.

Death was an unfamiliar concept to me until 2020. The devastation and loss of lives during the COVID 19 pandemic changed how I saw my future. As I watched the news, it was frightening to see that the highest incidence of COVID-19 related hospitalizations and deaths were amongst marginalized communities. The more I researched the health crisis in America, the more driven I became to be a part of the solution. I was excited to be chosen for a competitive Health Equity internship at a medical practice. Besides working with patients in the office, I develop social media based educational videos and infographics on critical health topics such as diabetes, heart disease, breast cancer awareness, mental health, hypertension, vaccinations and other health initiatives. Sadly, reports show that many diseases such as obesity disproportionately impact underserved populations. There’s a connection between a person’s social environment and their health. Studies have shown that discrimination, income inequality, violence, and institutional racism contribute to chronic stress in people of color which ultimately makes them more vulnerable to poor health. As I began to work with patients, I soon realized that the barriers to access did not always come from external factors. In fact, many marginalized patients create barriers mentally. Due to historical distrust of the healthcare system stemming from injustices such as the Tuskegee Experiment and limited access to quality healthcare, African American patients may not seek medical care. Studies continue to demonstrate that minority patient outcomes improve when they are treated by underrepresented minority doctors. Although African Americans comprise 14% of the U.S. population, they only represent 5% of physicians. Similarly, Latinos make up 18% of the total population yet represent only 2.4% of physicians in the U.S. Most recently, the Supreme Court ruled to end Affirmative Action. The court’s decision restricts medical schools from considering race in admissions. I believe this ruling leads to less physician diversity and increases healthcare disparities. I’m looking forward to starting college. Spelman College’s curriculum will challenge me to look deeper into the causes, effects and solutions to health problems. Their mission statement aligns with my belief of commitment to positive social change through service. I hope to further explore and analyze significant health issues impacting marginalized communities through coursework, research and internships. Additionally, I plan to join campus organizations which align with my desire of ensuring quality health care, health education, and community advocacy for underserved communities. The solution to ending health disparities amongst minorities must first address stressors contributing to poor health. Building partnerships with organizations such as mental health services,churches, financial services, and food services are vital. Likewise, diversity in medicine is essential. One of my goals in college is to establish mentoring programs designed to influence minority students from underserved communities to pursue a medical career. Taking a holistic approach , I will connect middle and high school students with BIPOC medical professionals in various areas where the need is greatest. The medical professionals would include physicians, social workers , nutritionists, fitness coaches and mental health professionals. Once the student enters college, the health professional would continue to mentor them to ensure their continued success and interest in medicine. Much work is needed in closing the gap of healthcare disparities and increasing minority representation in the medical field. Receiving this scholarship puts me one step closer to reaching my dream of becoming a physician advocating for underserved communities and ultimately closing the gap of healthcare inequality.

I remember watching my parents cheering and crying . At the age of 4, I didn't understand the significance of watching the Black man on tv become our President. Four years later, my family’s flight landed in Washington D.C. to once again witness history! I’ll never forget attending the second Inauguration of President Barack Obama and the impact of seeing Michelle Obama and their two daughters who looked just like me! As I dressed up in a fancy dress to attend an Inauguration Ball, my imagination of possibilities was birthed. If I could have everyone in the world read just one book, I would recommend Becoming, written by Michelle Obama. In her book , she talks about disliking the question “ What do you want to become when you grow up ?” To her, it implies that once you reach your goal, you stop growing. On the contrary, there’s endless possibilities. We are always evolving. My parents learned this lesson the hard way ! “Kelsey is wise beyond her years!” Growing up, I’ve heard this remark repeatedly. My curiosity and desire for knowledge challenged everything and everyone. As a critical thinker, I have an ability to problem solve. One gloomy night, my parents walked into my room. I knew trouble was ahead of me. In anger and astonishment, they could not believe that a 7 year- old managed to convert a toy into a phone capable of sending text messages. To cultivate my talents in a positive direction, I enrolled in Black Girls Code where I received mentorship in S.T.E.M. industries with companies such as Google and DreamWorks Studios. My experiences reaffirmed my desire to pursue a career in technology. I attended NASA Space Camps training with astronauts and was selected to be the mission leader for our space assimilation. Unexpectedly, COVID-19 pandemic changed the world. The devastation and loss of lives changed the trajectory of my focus from technology to medicine. I received a competitive Health Equity internship at a medical practice educating marginalized patients on critical health issues. Who would have imagined that my early childhood adventures, which likely contributed to my parents premature gray hair, would lead me to this moment. I look forward to exploring new possibilities in college. I will continue to take the lessons learned from Michelle Obama’s book Becoming which inspired me to never stop becoming a greater version of myself.

“Kelsey is wise beyond her years!” Growing up, I’ve heard this remark repeatedly. Early on, my family recognized the multitude of talents I possess. It was evident that a college education would be a vital component to shaping who I will become. As a critical thinker, I have an ability to problem solve. By the age of 5, I hacked my dad’s computer and purchased games using his credit card. My innovative talents advanced. One gloomy night, my parents walked into my room. I knew trouble was ahead of me. In anger and astonishment, they could not believe that a 7 year- old managed to convert a toy into a phone capable of sending text messages. To cultivate my talents in a positive direction, my mom enrolled me in Black Girls Code where I received mentorship from women in S.T.E.M. industries. Over the course of seven years, I participated in educational workshops including coding and robotics. A rewarding key aspect to my experience was networking with companies such as Google and Dreamworks Studios. My experiences reaffirmed my desire to attend college and ultimately pursue a career in technology. Thus, I sought out innovative opportunities. I attended the NASA Space Camp in Alabama. A memorable moment for me was when I was selected to be the mission leader for our robotic space assimilation and meeting astronauts. As I excelled academically, the unthinkable happened. The COVID-19 pandemic drastically changed the world. The devastation and loss of lives that my mother, who is a healthcare worker, witnessed changed how I saw my future. I had a new appreciation for the medical field as I watched her dress in what appeared to be a space suit to treat critically ill patients. It was shocking to learn that racism still impacts healthcare. The highest incidence of COVID-19 related hospitalizations and deaths were amongst African Americans. Admittedly, I worried my mom would die from COVID disease. Determined to redirect my focus, I became driven to be a part of the solution for healthcare disparities. To reach my goal of becoming a doctor, a college education was no longer an option but a necessity. With newfound hope, I received a competitive internship at a medical practice. As a Health Equity intern, I’m committed to educating my community on critical health issues which negatively impact underserved communities. Educating marginalized patients improves health outcomes and ultimately closes the gap of iniquity. Besides working with patients in the office, I develop social media based educational videos and infographics on critical health topics such as breast cancer awareness, mental health, hypertension, vaccinations and other health initiatives. Who would have imagined that my childhood adventures, which likely contributed to my parents premature gray hair, would spark my interest in STEM fields and solidify the importance of education, community service and innovation. My knowledge of technology will enhance my skills as a doctor. Thus far, my education inside and outside of the classroom has prepared me to succeed at Spelman College. I hope to further explore and analyze significant health issues impacting marginalized communities through coursework, research and internships. Receiving this scholarship puts me one step closer to reaching my dream of becoming a leader in medicine and contributing to positive changes in the world .

Death was an unfamiliar concept to me until 2020. The devastation and loss of lives during the COVID 19 pandemic changed how I saw my future. As I watched the news, it was frightening to see that the highest incidence of COVID-19 related hospitalizations and deaths were amongst marginalized communities. The more I researched the health crisis in America, the more driven I became to be a part of the solution. I was excited to be chosen for a competitive Health Equity internship at a medical practice. Besides working with patients in the office, I develop social media based educational videos and infographics on critical health topics such as diabetes, heart disease, breast cancer awareness, mental health, hypertension, vaccinations and other health initiatives. Sadly, reports show that many diseases such as obesity disproportionately impact underserved populations. There’s a connection between a person’s social environment and their health. Studies have shown that discrimination, income inequality, violence, and institutional racism contribute to chronic stress in people of color which ultimately makes them more vulnerable to poor health. As I began to work with patients, I soon realized that the barriers to access did not always come from external factors. In fact, many marginalized patients create barriers mentally. Due to historical distrust of the healthcare system stemming from injustices such as the Tuskegee Experiment and limited access to quality healthcare, African American patients may not seek medical care. Studies continue to demonstrate that minority patient outcomes improve when they are treated by underrepresented minority doctors. Although African Americans comprise 14% of the U.S. population, they only represent 5% of physicians. Similarly, Latinos make up 18% of the total population yet represent only 2.4% of physicians in the U.S. Most recently, the Supreme Court ruled to end Affirmative Action. The court’s decision restricts medical schools from considering race in admissions. I believe this ruling leads to less physician diversity and increases healthcare disparities. I’m looking forward to starting college this week. Spelman College’s curriculum will challenge me to look deeper into the causes, effects and solutions to health problems. Their mission statement aligns with my belief of commitment to positive social change through service. I hope to further explore and analyze significant health issues impacting marginalized communities through coursework, research and internships. If I was hired by the government to develop new public policy to end diabetes, heart disease, and obesity, I would Additionally, I plan to join campus organizations which align with my desire of ensuring quality health care, health education, and community advocacy for underserved communities. The solution to ending health disparities amongst minorities must first address stressors contributing to poor health. Building partnerships with organizations such as mental health services,churches, financial services, and food services are vital. Likewise, diversity in medicine is essential. One of my goals in college is to establish mentoring programs designed to influence minority students from underserved communities to pursue a medical career. Taking a holistic approach , I will connect middle and high school students with BIPOC medical professionals in various areas where the need is greatest. The medical professionals would include physicians, social workers , nutritionists, fitness coaches and mental health professionals. Once the student enters college, the health professional would continue to mentor them to ensure their continued success and interest in medicine. Much work is needed in closing the gap of healthcare disparities and increasing minority representation in the medical field. Receiving this scholarship puts me one step closer to reaching my dream of becoming a physician advocating for underserved communities and ultimately closing the gap of healthcare inequality.

Mental instability is the top barrier to pursuing a college education that students must navigate. High school students face tremendous pressure to succeed in order to receive acceptance into top colleges. We are told to focus on high GPA scores, leadership roles, community service, awards, sports, jobs and additional extracurricular activities. Exhausted, students like myself are facing the challenge of competing and jeopardizing our mental well-being in order to win the prize of college acceptance. Without warning, life dramatically changed when schools closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Cut off from the world, the pandemic affected the world's mental health in a massive and life-altering way. For high school students, we had the unique challenge of building a resume for college applications in a virtual world. However, nothing compared to the loss of lives from Covid infection. Admittedly, I worried my mom, who is a frontline healthcare worker, would die from COVID disease. I was not alone in facing anxiety. In fact, reports indicate that many students reported an increase in depression and anxiety during the pandemic. Although I was well aware and educated on the importance of mental wellbeing, I was not prepared for the challenges in high school. For the first time I experienced intense anxiety. Cut off from socializing as a coping mechanism in school and extracurricular activities, I struggled emotionally. My parents recognized the importance of mental wellness and sent me to counseling. Although therapy was somewhat helpful, I found other effective ways of reducing my anxiety. To maintain mental strength, I explored new strategies including coloring books , creating vision boards, dancing on tik tok videos and gardening. Surprisingly, aromatherapy has become an essential component of my daily self care routine. The scents of candles help calm and relax my negative thoughts, and help me to sleep. I love trying new scents. Although the pandemic isolated me from friends, it forced me to spend quality time with family. I strengthened my bond with my grandmother who has dementia. I enjoy listening to her stories of the good ole days. Also, I developed new relationships with family who virtually taught me how to cook through Zoom meetings. Determined to redirect my focus, I became driven to become a part of the solution for healthcare disparities. I was accepted for a position as a Health Equity Intern at a medical practice. I’m committed to educating students on the importance of mental well-being and breaking the stigma surrounding psychological care. The ideal college candidate is one who strives to recognize and improve mental barriers to college success and beyond.

Kelsey is wise beyond her years!” Growing up, I’ve heard this remark repeatedly. Early on, my family recognized the multitude of talents I possess. As a critical thinker, my ability to problem solve often led to mischief. By the age of 5, I managed to hack my dad’s computer and purchase games using his credit card. To cultivate my talents in a positive direction, my mom enrolled me in soccer. I seemed to be living up to my family’s prediction of success in academics , extracurricular activities and soccer. For ten years , I loved competitive soccer where I excelled and developed strong work ethics. I was proud to receive the Defensive Player of the Year award. With one wrong move, I injured my knee. Desperately, I consulted with three orthopedic specialists. Despite my efforts with long hours of Physical Therapy, I failed to recover. My prospects for receiving a sports scholarship for college suddenly vanished. This challenging moment forced me to explore new interests. My mother and I invested in a jewelry business. Through this new venture, I gained entrepreneurial skills. My leadership talents and excitement for our business was infectious. I inspired other young girls to dream big and built a team of teen entrepreneurs. As I successfully focused on my business, the unthinkable happened. The COVID-19 pandemic had not only affected my business but my family. The devastation and loss of lives that my mother, a frontline healthcare worker , witnessed changed how I saw my future. I had a new appreciation for the medical field as I watched my mother dress in space suits to treat critically ill patients. Fearful of the dangers my mom faced, I struggled to stay motivated academically and socially. For the first time, my grades began to decline. Spending most of my time alone, I was shocked to learn that racism still impacts healthcare. The highest incidence of COVID-19 related deaths were amongst African Americans. Admittedly, I worried my mom would die from COVID disease. Determined to redirect my focus, I became driven to become a part of the solution for healthcare inequality impacting underserved communities. I was accepted for a competitive position as a Health Equity Intern at Divinely Restored Health & Wellness medical practice. Besides working with patients in the office, I develop social media based educational videos and infographics on critical health topics such as breast cancer awareness, mental health, hypertension, and vaccinations. Through my challenges, I’ve learned the importance of resiliency. These life lessons have placed me one step closer to reaching my goal of becoming a leader in medicine and contributing to the recovery of injured student athletes.

“Kelsey is wise beyond her years!” Growing up, I’ve heard this remark repeatedly. My curiosity challenged everything and everyone. Early on, my family recognized the multitude of talents I possess. It was evident that a college education would be a vital component to shaping who I will become. As a critical thinker, I have an ability to problem solve. By the age of 5, I hacked my dad’s computer and purchased games using his credit card. My analytical talents advanced. One gloomy night, my parents walked into my room. I knew trouble was ahead of me. In anger and astonishment, they could not believe that a 7 year- old managed to convert a toy into a phone capable of sending text messages. To cultivate my talents in a positive direction, my mom enrolled me in Black Girls Code where I received mentorship from women in S.T.E.M. industries. Over the course of seven years, I participated in educational workshops including coding and robotics. A rewarding key aspect to my experience was networking with companies such as Google and DreamWorks Studios. My experiences reaffirmed my desire to pursue a career in technology. Thus, I sought out innovative opportunities. I attended NASA Space Camps in Alabama. A memorable moment for me was when I was selected to be the mission leader for our robotic space assimilation and interacting with astronauts. At fourteen years old, my wisdom beyond my years paid off as a jewelry business owner. Loving the life of a teen entrepreneur, I earned the title “ Boss Girl”. My dedication and leadership talents were infectious. I inspired other young girls to dream big and built a team of teen entrepreneurs. My team, collectively named Purposed Jewelz, has a mission to empower young entrepreneurs to live with purpose by building financially literate leaders. As I successfully focused on school and extracurricular activities, the unthinkable happened. The COVID-19 pandemic drastically changed the world. The devastation and loss of lives changed how I saw my future. Dressed in a space suit, I had a new appreciation for my mother treating critically ill patients as a frontline healthcare worker. Admittedly, I worried she would die from COVID disease. It was shocking to learn that the highest incidence of COVID-19 related hospitalizations and deaths were amongst marginalized communities. For me, a college education was no longer an option but a necessity. Determined to redirect my focus, I became driven to be a part of the solution for healthcare disparities. With newfound hope, I received a competitive internship at a medical practice. As a Health Equity intern, I’m committed to educating patients on critical health issues which negatively impact underserved communities. Educating disadvantaged patients improves health outcomes and ultimately closes the gap of iniquity. Besides working with patients in the office, I develop social media based educational videos and infographics on critical health topics such as breast cancer awareness, mental health, hypertension, vaccinations and other health initiatives. Who would have imagined that my childhood adventures, which likely contributed to my parents premature gray hair, would spark my interest in STEM fields and solidify the importance of a college education. My knowledge of technology will enhance my skills as a doctor. In college, I hope to further explore and analyze significant health issues impacting disadvantaged populations through coursework, research and internships. Receiving this scholarship puts me one step closer to reaching my dream of becoming a pioneering healthcare professional advocating for underserved communities.

“Kelsey is wise beyond her years!” Growing up, I’ve heard this remark repeatedly. Early on, my family recognized my uniqueness and multitude of talents I possess. As a critical thinker, I have an ability to problem solve. By the age of 5, I managed to hack my dad’s computer and purchase games using his credit card. My analytical talents advanced. One gloomy night, my parents walked into my room. I knew trouble was ahead of me. In anger and astonishment, they could not believe that a 7 year- old managed to convert a toy into a phone capable of sending text messages. To cultivate my talents in a positive direction, my mom enrolled me in Black Girls Code where I received mentorship from women in S.T.E.M. industries. Over the course of seven years, I participated in educational workshops including coding and robotics. A rewarding key aspect to my experience was networking with companies such as Google and Dreamworks Studios. My experiences reaffirmed my desire to pursue a career in technology. Thus, I sought out innovative opportunities. I attended the NASA Space Camp in Alabama. A memorable moment for me was when I was selected to be the mission leader for our robotic space assimilation and interacting with astronauts. Throughout the years, my interests expanded. At the age of 14, I invested in a jewelry business. Through this new venture, I was able to strengthen my entrepreneurial skills. My dedication, leadership talents and excitement for my business was infectious. I inspired other young girls to dream big and built a team of teen entrepreneurs. My team, collectively named Purposed Jewelz, has a mission to empower young entrepreneurs to live with purpose by building financially literate leaders. Loving the life of a teen entrepreneur, I earned the title “ Boss Girl”. As I successfully focused on school my business , the unthinkable happened. The COVID-19 pandemic drastically changed the world. The devastation and loss of lives changed how I saw my future. Dressed in a space suit, I had a new appreciation for my mother treating critically ill patients as a frontline healthcare worker. Admittedly, I worried she would die from COVID disease. It was shocking to learn that racism still impacts healthcare. The highest incidence of COVID-19 related hospitalizations and deaths were amongst African Americans. Determined to redirect my focus, I became driven to be a part of the solution for healthcare disparities. With newfound hope, I received a competitive internship at a medical practice. As a Health Equity intern, I’m committed to educating my community on critical health issues which negatively impact underserved communities. Educating marginalized patients improves health outcomes and ultimately closes the gap of iniquity. Besides working with patients in the office, I develop social media based educational videos and infographics on critical health topics such as breast cancer awareness, mental health, hypertension, vaccinations and other health initiatives. Who would have imagined that my early childhood adventures , which likely contributed to my parents premature gray hair, would spark my interest in STEM fields. My knowledge of technology will enhance my skills as a doctor. I believe pursuing a STEM career will challenge me and nurture my desire to become a pioneering healthcare professional , advocating for underserved communities.

Denied a life without my grandmother, my heart ached as I listened to the story of how she died over 30 years ago. From my mother’s recollection, my grandmother’s denial of a heart transplant was racially inhumane. How could the transplant committee, composed of majorly white male doctors, deny a 38-year-old mother who fought to care for her three young children ? Unspoken feelings of sadness and anger for not having granny to celebrate special moments in my life were tangible. Nonetheless, I excelled in academics and sports. As I diligently focused on school and extracurricular activities, the unthinkable happened. The COVID-19 pandemic drastically changed the world. The devastation and loss of lives changed how I saw my future. I had a new appreciation for the medical field as I watched my mother, a frontline healthcare worker, dress in protective suits to treat critically ill patients. It was shocking to see that racism still impacts today’s U.S. healthcare system. The highest incidence of COVID-19 related hospitalizations and deaths were amongst African Americans. Admittedly, I worried my mom would die from COVID disease. Fearful of the dangers my mom faced, I struggled to stay motivated academically and socially. Determined to redirect my focus, I became driven to become a part of the solution for healthcare inequality impacting underserved communities. I was accepted for a competitive position as a Health Equity Intern at Divinely Restored Health & Wellness medical practice. Through this internship, I work closely with the medical practice founders. Under their mentorship, I am learning about the importance of creating a community centered practice that integrates physical and psychological wellness. More specifically, I am building meaningful collaborations and leading critical programmatic efforts focused on ensuring quality health care, health education, and community advocacy for underserved communities. I’m committed to educating my community on the critical health issues which disproportionately impact underserved communities which includes Diabetes, Heart Disease and Obesity. Besides direct patient care , I develop social media based educational videos and infographics on critical health topics such as breast cancer awareness, mental health, hypertension, COVID-19 vaccinations and other health and wellness initiatives. Also, I organize community events focused on addressing health problems and disease prevention. I truly believe it is my duty to use my voice of advocacy coupled with my life experiences to make a difference. I am engaging in meaningful work that allows me to gain the necessary skills to improve healthcare delivery and end disparities in marginalized communities. My goal is to pursue a S.T.E.M. major at Spelman College. I hope to further explore and analyze significant health issues impacting my community through coursework, research, and internships. My drive to become a physician and prayer is that no black child will grow up without a grandmother due to lack of humane healthcare. Receiving this scholarship puts me one step closer to reaching my dream of becoming a leader in medicine and contributing to positive changes in underserved communities .

Growing up, I witnessed the devastating effects of mental illness. Denied a life without my grandmother, my heart ached as I listened to the story of how she died 30 years ago. From my mother’s recollection, my grandmother’s denial of a heart transplant was inhumane. How could the transplant committee deny a 38 year-old mother who fought to care for her children ? According to the committee, my grandmother’s home life was unstable due to a history of mental health challenges from years of domestic violence? A year after my grandmother’s death, my uncle was diagnosed with Schizophrenia at the age of 15. For the last 30 years, my family has fought to ensure adequate care for my uncle. I’ve seen the injustice our society has placed on this vulnerable population. Negative stigma, fear, budget cuts, inadequate mental health facilities, lack of support for families, misunderstandings of their diagnosis and more has forced many mentally ill patients to live on the streets. In an effort to raise awareness of the mental health crisis, I participated in two community events sponsored by my mom. The goal of P.U.S.H, a series of mental wellness symposiums, was to create a community who will Push Unhealthy Stress & Heal! Ultimately, the mission was to empower youth and adults to enhance their emotional intelligence, create opportunities out of obstacles, and transform their tribulations into triumphs. The first event targeted educating adults on recognizing how emotional health affects physical health. There’s a connection between a person’s social environment and their health. Studies have shown that chronic stress ultimately increases a person’s risk for poor health such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease . The second event targeted teens in Los Angeles. A city known for its fast, flashy, and glamorous scene; young people are constantly falling victim to mental instability due to external factors. Mental instability is a significant barrier to pursuing a college education that students must navigate. High school students face tremendous pressure to succeed in order to receive acceptance into top colleges. We are told to focus on high GPA scores, leadership roles, community service, awards, sports, jobs and additional extracurricular activities. Exhausted, students like myself are facing the challenge of competing and jeopardizing our mental well-being in order to win the prize of college acceptance. The goal of the symposium was to facilitate a powerful sense of unity, offer resources to improve their mental health, and provide strategies to transform obstacles into opportunities. Although I was well aware and educated on the importance of mental wellbeing, I was not prepared for the challenges in high school. Without warning, life dramatically changed when schools closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Cut off from the world, the pandemic affected the world's mental health in a massive and life-altering way. For high school students, we had the unique challenge of building a resume for college applications in a virtual world. However, nothing compared to the loss of lives from Covid infection. Admittedly, I worried my mom, who is a frontline healthcare worker, would die from COVID disease. For the first time I experienced intense anxiety. Cut off from socializing as a coping mechanism in school and extracurricular activities, I struggled emotionally. My parents recognized the importance of mental wellness and sent me to counseling. Although therapy was somewhat helpful, I found other effective ways of reducing my anxiety. To maintain mental strength, I explored new strategies including coloring books , creating vision boards, dancing on tik tok videos and gardening. Surprisingly, aromatherapy has become an essential component of my daily self care routine. The scents of candles help calm and relax my negative thoughts, and help me to sleep. I love trying new scents. Although the pandemic isolated me from friends, it forced me to spend quality time with family. I strengthened my bond with my grandmother who has dementia. I enjoy listening to her stories of the good ole days. Also, I developed new relationships with family who virtually taught me how to cook through Zoom meetings. If I could offer any advice to teens experiencing mental health difficulties, the first thing I would advise is to listen to yourself. Don’t ignore sad or anxious feelings. No problem is too small to ask for help. Also, find what works best for you. Although the traditional way of speaking to a counselor can be effective, don't be afraid to explore alternative methods. Lastly, don’t forget to connect with other people even if it’s virtually. In college, I plan to continue the legacy my family started of breaking the stigma surrounding psychological care. My goal is to join campus organizations that align with my mission to organize P.U.S.H symposiums to include students in surrounding high schools and colleges. My career goal is to build a community centered medical practice that integrates physical and psychological wellness that eradicates the negative stigma associated with mental health services.

“Kelsey is wise beyond her years!” Growing up, I’ve heard this remark repeatedly. Early on, my family recognized the multitude of talents I possess. As a critical thinker, I have an ability to problem solve. One gloomy night, my parents walked into my room. I knew trouble was ahead of me. In anger and astonishment, they could not believe that a 7 year- old managed to convert a toy into a phone capable of sending text messages. To cultivate my talents in a positive direction, my mom enrolled me in Black Girls Code where I received mentorship from women in S.T.E.M. industries. Over the course of seven years, I participated in educational workshops including coding and robotics. A rewarding key aspect to my experience was networking with companies such as Google and Dreamworks Studios. My experiences reaffirmed my desire to pursue a career in technology. Thus, I sought out innovative opportunities. I attended the NASA Space Camp in Alabama. A memorable moment for me was when I was selected to be the mission leader for our robotic space assimilation and meeting astronauts. As I excelled academically, the unthinkable happened. The COVID-19 pandemic drastically changed the world. The devastation and loss of lives that my mother, a frontline healthcare worker, witnessed changed how I saw my future and ultimately changed the trajectory of my focus from technology to medicine. I had a new appreciation for the medical field as I watched her dress in what appeared to be a space suit to treat critically ill patients. Admittedly, I worried she would become infected with COVID and meet the same fate as my grandmother. Denied a life without my grandmother, my heart ached as I listened to the story of how she died 30 years ago. From my mother’s recollection, my grandmother’s denial of a heart transplant was inhumane. How could the transplant committee, composed of majority white male doctors, deny a mother who fought to care for her three young children? Sadly, inequality still impacts today’s U.S. healthcare system. As I watched the news, it was shocking to see that the highest incidence of COVID-19 related hospitalizations and deaths were amongst African Americans. Determined to redirect my focus, I became driven to be a part of the solution for healthcare disparities. Although African Americans comprise 14% of the U.S. population, they only represent 2% of physicians. Due to historical distrust of the healthcare system stemming from injustices such as the Tuskegee Experiment and limited access to quality healthcare, African Americans may not seek medical care. In addition, research studies continue to demonstrate that Black patient outcomes improve when they are treated by Black doctors. With newfound hope, I received a competitive internship at a medical practice. As a Health Equity intern, I’m committed to educating my community on critical health issues which negatively impact underserved communities. Educating African American patients improves health outcomes and ultimately closes the gap of iniquity. Besides working with patients in the office, I develop social media based educational videos and infographics on critical health topics such as breast cancer awareness, mental health, hypertension, vaccinations and other health initiatives. Thus far, my education inside and outside of the classroom has prepared me to succeed in college. I hope to further explore health issues impacting marginalized communities through coursework, research and internships. My drive and prayer is that no black child will grow up without a grandmother due to lack of humane healthcare. Receiving this scholarship puts me one step closer to reaching my dream of becoming a medical doctor.