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I read books daily
KyChelle Barnes
1,715
Bold Points1x
Finalist
KyChelle Barnes
1,715
Bold Points1x
FinalistBio
My name is KyChelle, and I am a student embarking on my journey of self-discovery. My experiences over the past year have taught me to be happy and confident in who I am, and to never let anyone tell me otherwise. I understand the importance of self-love and self-care, and I have learned that I am capable of achieving anything I set my mind to. I am also learning to appreciate the small moments in life and to make the most of every opportunity that comes my way. I am proud of the woman I am today, and I aspire to be an OB-GYN one day, working to make a difference in the lives of others.
Education
Spelman College
Bachelor's degree programMajors:
- Chemistry
- Chemical Engineering
Minors:
- Cosmetology and Related Personal Grooming Services
GPA:
4
Spelman College
Bachelor's degree programMajors:
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Other
South Puget Sound Community College
Associate's degree programMajors:
- Biology, General
Minors:
- Human Biology
GPA:
3.8
Tumwater High School
High SchoolGPA:
3.8
Miscellaneous
Desired degree level:
Doctoral degree program (PhD, MD, JD, etc.)
Graduate schools of interest:
Transfer schools of interest:
Majors of interest:
- Alternative and Complementary Medicine and Medical Systems, General
- African Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Other
- Medicine
- Biology, General
- Human Biology
- Biological/Biosystems Engineering
- Psychology, General
- Microbiological Sciences and Immunology
- Biological and Physical Sciences
Career
Dream career field:
Hospital & Health Care
Dream career goals:
Dermatologist
Sports
Tennis
Junior Varsity2023 – Present2 years
Public services
Advocacy
Social Equity — Speaker2021 – Present
Future Interests
Advocacy
Politics
Volunteering
Philanthropy
Entrepreneurship
Harriett Russell Carr Memorial Scholarship
I strive to embody a spirit of excellence by approaching every task, opportunity, and responsibility with intentionality, integrity, and a commitment to growth. As a chemistry major with a focus on cosmetic chemistry, I hold myself to rigorous academic standards, not just to achieve strong grades, but to truly understand what chemistry is and how science can be used to solve real-world problems. For me, excellence is not about perfection. It's about consistency, accountability, and aligning my work with my larger purpose. That purpose is rooted in equity, advocacy, and uplifting marginalized communities through science and service.
My interest in dermatology and pharmaceutical research is deeply tied to my desire to address racial disparities in healthcare. I've dedicated my academic journey to understanding the gaps in dermatological research for Black and Brown communities, and I carry that sense of responsibility with me every day. Whether it’s in the lab or in the classroom, I bring a critical lens to my work, constantly asking: Who is being left out of this conversation? How can I use my position to center those voices?
This mindset carries over into my community work. I actively mentor underrepresented students in STEM, offering guidance, encouragement, and resources I wish I had earlier in my journey. I’ve volunteered with BIPOC THS at my old high school to support students of color who are trying to nativigate and thrive in predominantly white institutions. There and at my college, I have participated in programs and panels that addresses the intersection of health, identity, and access. Through campus organizations, I’ve helped plan panels, workshops, and discussions that focus on everything from navigating systemic racism in healthcare to exploring inclusive scientific practices.
I believe that giving back is not a separate part of my life, it’s integrated into everything I do. I don’t see service as something that starts and stops with a program or volunteer hours. I’s about building sustainable, empowering relationships and using your skills to uplift others. For me, excellence is not just about what I achieve for myself, but how I use that knowledge, access, and opportunity to positively impact my community.
By staying grounded in my values, holding myself accountable, and being committed to learning and unlearning, I strive to be a person who leads with purpose. That, to me, is what a true spirit of excellence looks like and why I remain deeply committed to both academic, pesonal, and community excellence and impact.
Lucent Scholarship
My chosen field of study is STEM, specifically biology and chemistry. These fields bridge the gap between my interests and my desire to help people. Before my freshman year of high school, I aspired to become a criminal justice lawyer to represent Black and Brown individuals who have been unjustly underrepresented and misrepresented. I eagerly collected law books and connected with Black lawyers whenever possible. However, everything changed during my freshman year when I learned about two crucial topics: the history of medical practices in the United States and the alarming mortality rates of Black women during and after childbirth.
At just 13 years old, I made a life-changing decision to dedicate my life to helping Black women in labor and delivery. I enrolled in a physiology and anatomy college course, where I became captivated by the complexities of the human body, particularly reproductive health. The statistics regarding the mortality rates of Black women during childbirth haunted me, igniting a passion to take action and advocate for those who had been silenced.
I began to research the average health experiences of Black women and the disparities within healthcare. This project, which continues to grow, gathered the interest of my family, a family that constantly talks. Before I knew it, everyone in my family decided that I was an OBGYN, and that every woman in my family began sharing their experiences and health concerns with me. Listening to their stories reinforced the fact that disparities in care stem from the racist and misogynistic origins of healthcare in the United States, which leads to biased education and treatment. These narratives, including those from my mother, aunties, grandmother, and cousins, reinforced my commitment to pursuing a career in healthcare. I wanted to advocate not only for improved healthcare, but also for the dignity, respect, and necessary information that every woman deserves in her interactions with healthcare professionals.
I sought opportunities in gynecology and obstetrics medicine and focused on health education in underserved communities. I organized workshops addressing critical topics, such as the history of vaccines in the Black community and strategies for self-advocacy in healthcare settings.
By my senior year, my commitment to healthcare justice crystallized into a clear goal: to become an OBGYN. Since then, I have personally faced mistreatment in healthcare, particularly in gynecology and dermatology. Now, as an undergrad, my focus remains on becoming an OBGYN, with the addition of becoming a dermatologist. My experiences have reinforced my belief that education is a powerful tool for change. I will be using my medical knowledge, advocacy skills, and personal experiences to transform the narrative not only around Black maternal health, but also around the general Black women's experience in healthcare.
Bright Lights Scholarship
From the moment I began dreaming of a career in medicine, I knew I wanted to make a difference in the lives of underrepresented communities. As a first-generation college student and a Black queer woman, I have seen how disparities in healthcare can leave many feeling unseen and underserved. My dream is to become a dermatologist, specializing in treating skin conditions for individuals whose unique needs are often overlooked. This scholarship would provide me with the support I need to achieve this goal and bring healing to those who need it most.
Skin is more than just the body’s outermost layer; it is a reflection of health, confidence, and identity. Yet, for many in minority and underrepresented communities, access to dermatological care is limited and expensive, and systemic biases and discrimination result in misdiagnoses and inadequate treatments. I experienced this disparity firsthand when I was misdiagnosed and mistreated by my dermatologist last year, a distressing experience that left me feeling overlooked and unheard. The experience not only underscored the inequities in dermatological care, but also ignited a deeper understanding of how critical empathy and cultural competency are in medicine. Growing up, I witnessed friends, family, and myself struggle with skin conditions that went untreated or misunderstood due to the lack of access to quality care for our skin. These experiences solidified my commitment to becoming a dermatologist who addresses these inequities, builds trust, and provides care that honors the unique experiences of every patient.
My passion for this field is deeply rooted in my desire to provide culturally competent care and increase awareness about skin conditions that disproportionately affect people of color. Whether treating conditions like eczema, acne, or more complex issues like keloid scarring and pigment disorders, I want to ensure that every patient feels heard and valued.
Embarking on this academic journey is the first step toward realizing my dream of becoming a dermatologist. As a chemistry major with a concentration in cosmetic chemistry, I am gaining a strong foundation in the science behind skin care and treatment. This specialized knowledge deepens my understanding of how to address complex skin conditions and equips me with innovative tools to develop effective solutions tailored to diverse needs. As low-income student, I face significant financial challenges that sometimes make the path ahead feel daunting. However, I am determined to persevere because I know my success will open doors not just for me, but for others in my community who look to me as an example of what’s possible.
The Bright Light Scholarship would be transformative in my journey. It would alleviate the financial burden of tuition, allowing me to focus fully on my studies and take advantage of opportunities like internships and research that will prepare me for medical school. This support would also enable me to dedicate time to initiatives that promote awareness about dermatological health in underserved populations, laying the groundwork for my future career.
Becoming a dermatologist is more than a career choice; it's a calling to serve and uplift others. I envision a future where dermatological care is accessible and inclusive, where patients of all backgrounds can trust that their health is in capable hands. Through this scholarship, I will not only pursue my education, but work toward building a legacy of equitable care and representation in medicine.
With the support of the Bright Light Scholarship, I will take the next step toward making this vision a reality. By combining my passion, drive, and commitment to impact, I aim to be a light for others, healing beyond the surface and inspiring hope in every patient I serve.
Willie Louis Pegues Science Scholarship
My journey toward becoming a scientist is deeply intertwined with my identity as a Black and Queer woman and has been shaped by both personal and educational experiences. From a young age, my mother, who aspired to be a teacher, instilled in me a love for learning. She taught me about my history as an African American and Queer woman, a history that is marked by both struggle and resilience. Understanding the sacrifices made by those who came before me has been a powerful motivator in my life, driving me to pursue knowledge and make a difference in the world.
Books were essential in my early education, providing me with a safe space to explore my identity and imagination. My mother introduced me to stories that fueled my curiosity and helped me see the world differently. As I grew older, I sought out books that represented my experiences, though they were often difficult to find in the city where I lived. This scarcity of representation fueled my desire to learn as much as possible and to seek out knowledge in any form available to me. My passion for learning led me to explore various subjects, but it was science that ultimately captured my heart.
My interest in science took root unexpectedly during an undergraduate research project with NASA, where I had the opportunity to synthesize and analyze microbial DNA. This experience was transformative, igniting a passion for biochemistry and showing me the real-world impact that scientific research can have. It also made me realize that science was not just about facts and figures—it was about discovery, problem-solving, and contributing to a better future. This passion led me to pursue an associate degree in biology, and I have since been dedicated to furthering my education and research in biochemistry.
My career goals are driven by my desire to address the mistreatment of marginalized communities, particularly Black and Queer women, in the medical field. Over the past several years, I have read extensively about the high maternal mortality rate among Black women and the systemic inequalities they face in healthcare. These stories have deeply affected me and have solidified my commitment to making a difference. I aspire to become an OB-GYN, a role in which I can provide compassionate and equitable care to all patients, regardless of their background. I want to be a healthcare provider who listens, who advocates for her patients, and who works to eliminate the disparities that have unjusticely harmed and killed so many.
Receiving this scholarship would be a significant step toward achieving my goals. It would provide the financial support I need to focus on my studies and research without the burden of financial stress. This scholarship would also allow me to access opportunities that might otherwise be out of reach, such as internships, conferences, and advanced laboratory resources. These experiences would enhance my education, prepare me for a successful career in medicine, and empower me to make meaningful contributions to my community.
My journey into the sciences is deeply connected to my identity and my desire to make a positive impact in the world. I am passionate about using biochemistry and medicine to address health disparities and improve the lives of individuals in marginalized communities. This scholarship would be instrumental in helping me achieve my goals, and I am eager to continue my educational journey toward becoming a scientist and healthcare provider who makes a difference.
Henry Bynum, Jr. Memorial Scholarship
Throughout my life, I have faced countless challenges, particularly as a Black woman navigating spaces that have not always been welcoming. Racism has been an educational and personal challenge, shaping my academic journey and personal growth. These experiences have strengthened my resolve to overcome challenges and pave the way for others who may face similar struggles.
From a young age, I encountered prejudice and discrimination that was often subtle yet pervasive. Teachers sometimes assumed I was not as capable as my white peers, offering less mentorship and support. As I grew older, these experiences became more pronounced, with exclusion from activities and opportunities solely because of my race. One of the most difficult challenges I have faced is the sense of alienation. Often, I have found myself as the only Black student in my classes, which has been an incredibly isolating experience. The lack of representation and understanding from peers and professors made it challenging to connect with others who understood the struggles unique to being a Black student in predominantly white institutions.
In addition to the educational challenges, I have also had to confront the negative stereotypes associated with being a Black woman. I have had to work tirelessly to prove my worth and ensure that my voice is heard, all while being aware that I would likely face additional challenges simply because of my identity. Despite these obstacles, I have chosen to confront racism head-on, rather than allowing it to limit me.
One of the most significant ways I have overcome adversity is through education. Recognizing the power of knowledge, I immersed myself in my studies, earning an associate degree in biology and gaining hands-on experience through research. My involvement in a NASA research project, where I synthesized and analyzed microbial DNA, reinforced my belief in my abilities and set me on a path toward a career in biochemistry—a field that was under-represented that I had never imagined pursuing. My academic achievements are a testament to my resilience and determination to rise above the limitations others have tried to impose on me.
I have also taken on leadership roles that allow me to address discrimination and racism directly. I have joined organizations focused on creating a more equitable and inclusive campus, and I have spoken out against racism, both in person and online. My role as a leader in my high school's Social Equity Club has been particularly impactful, enabling me to create spaces where all students feel heard and respected. I have organized workshops and led discussions that address the unique challenges faced by marginalized communities. Through these efforts, I have found strength in my peers and used my experiences to help others.
Looking to the future, I am committed to using my experiences and education to help my community. My goal is to pursue a career in biochemistry, where I hope to contribute to research that addresses health disparities affecting marginalized communities. I want to use my knowledge to develop solutions that improve the lives of those who the scientific community has historically underserved. Additionally, I aim to continue my advocacy work by creating environments where people from all backgrounds feel valued and supported. Whether through mentoring, community outreach, or policy advocacy, I am determined to make a positive impact on my community.
The adversity I have faced has shaped me into a resilient, determined individual who is committed to using my experiences to help others. By pursuing a career in biochemistry and continuing my advocacy work, I hope to create a future where everyone, regardless of their background or identity, has the opportunity to thrive.
Billie Eilish Fan Scholarship
Billie Elilish are one of the many artists that have changed my life with her music. My top three Billie Eilish songs are "When the Party's Over", "Everything I Wanted", and "My Future".
"When the Party's Over" is a powerful song that encapsulates the emotional struggle of heartbreak and the difficult process of letting go. Billie's haunting vocals and minimalist production create a raw, intimate atmosphere that contributes to the emotions behind the lyrics. This resonates deeply with me as it speaks to the universal experience of wanting to hold on to someone, despite knowing it’s healthier to walk away.
"Everything I Wanted" dives into themes of fame, mental health, and the pressures of meeting others' expectations. Billie’s reflection on her dreams, intertwined with fears and doubts, is incredibly powerful. It resonates with me because it underscores the importance of staying grounded and valuing genuine support systems, especially in the face of overwhelming circumstances—a sentiment that aligns with my own experiences navigating academic and social pressures.
"My Future" is a song that celebrates self-growth and embracing what lies ahead. It’s an anthem of hope and empowerment, which I find particularly inspiring. The transition from a melancholic tone to a more upbeat, optimistic vibe mirrors the journey of finding confidence and purpose. This resonates with my journey of self-discovery and determination to forge a future that reflects my aspirations and values.
These songs not only resonate with my experiences, but also inspire me to continue pushing forward, embracing growth, and staying true to myself, making them particularly meaningful as I pursue my academic and personal goals.
Strong Leaders of Tomorrow Scholarship
To me, leadership isn’t about titles or authority—it’s about making a real difference by standing up for others, building community, and empowering those around me to reach their full potential. As a proud Black and Queer woman, my experiences with racism and discrimination have shaped my understanding of leadership in profound ways. These challenges have taught me that true leadership requires resilience, advocacy, and a commitment to creating spaces where everyone feels valued.
Throughout my life, I have encountered racism and microaggressions that could have discouraged me. Instead, they fueled my determination to excel and, more importantly, to advocate for others facing similar challenges. My leadership journey began with proving my worth in environments where I was often underestimated, but it evolved into a mission to support others who might feel voiceless.
A pivotal moment in my leadership development came through my role in my old high school’s Social Equity Club. During my time there, a student confided in me after being subjected to homophobic slurs and treatment both on and outside of school property. After receiving permission to try to do something about this situation, I took immediate action, reporting the incident to a trusted faculty member. This led to formal reports and tangible changes within our school, reaffirming my belief that leadership is about more than responding to problems—it’s about proactively fostering an inclusive and respectful culture.
Beyond addressing specific incidents, I’ve worked to build a supportive community among Black students on campus. Together, we’ve created a space where we can share our experiences and uplift each other. This sense of solidarity has been incredibly empowering and is something I’m committed to nurturing in all areas of my life.
What makes me a leader is my ability to inspire and guide others through empathy, resilience, and a focus on collective success. I lead by example, whether I’m tackling a research project or navigating difficult situations. My approach is solution-oriented, encouraging open communication and creating an environment where everyone feels comfortable sharing their ideas and concerns. This fosters trust and camaraderie, essential for any team to thrive.
My experience with high-stakes projects, such as a NASA research initiative, has taught me the importance of adaptability and strategic thinking. I assess situations quickly, make informed decisions, and adjust plans as needed to achieve our goals. This adaptability keeps the team motivated and focused, even in the face of problems.
Ultimately, my leadership is driven by a passion for making a positive impact. I am deeply invested in the success of those I lead, striving to empower them to reach their full potential. Whether mentoring younger students, advocating for marginalized communities, or joining a research team, my goal is to uplift and inspire others to achieve great things together.
As I pursue my degree in biochemistry, I plan to use my leadership skills to continue advocating for social equity and creating inclusive environments. My career will be focused on addressing public health challenges in marginalized communities, where issues like chronic disease and environmental injustice are prevalent. By combining my passion for advocacy with my scientific knowledge, I believe I can make a meaningful impact on the lives of others.
What makes me a leader is my commitment to fostering collaboration, maintaining resilience, and inspiring others through empathy and dedication. I lead with integrity, create supportive environments, and drive collective success. My experiences have shaped me into a leader who is not only capable of achieving personal success, but is also passionate about empowering others to do the same.
Combined Worlds Scholarship
Traveling is an amazing and life-altering experience! It offers so many opportunities for personal growth and development by immersing a person into new cultures, views, and living spaces. Such exposure can lead to a number of changes: one side may challenge the prejudices and stereotypes one may have at the conscious or unconscious levels, but the other side may experience appreciation for the richness of human diversity. Experiencing new cultures and getting to learn about them offer a useful insight for the traveler, giving a person a wider perspective of the world with more empathy and seeing things as a whole. This culture immersion is not just observation, but active engagement to show desire in understanding and connecting with all people.
Everywhere in travel, challenges pop out of nowhere, and one has to adjust immediately and search for solutions. This drive toward success in new environments translates into an invaluable set of skills not just useful during travel, but in everyday life. The determination to push through challenges and maximize the outcome shows self-investment in growth with unyielding efforts toward learning. And it provides a unique opportunity for deep immersion not only in other cultures, but also in self-discovery. In a new environment, one is likely to reflect and think about their life, values, goals, and identity.
It is in this dependence on foreign settings and environments that one learns how to be independent and confident. Being able to successfully navigate new places, make local friends, and manage travels adds to the sense of accomplishment and self-reliance. With this experience comes greater self-assurance that equips them to take on new challenges and make the best opportunities with new meaning. Additionally, exposure to the natural landscapes would instill an appreciation for beauty and complexity within the planet. This exposure allows for travelers to experience and learn the history that goes on through travel—for instance, by learning to speak a new language or understanding a given historical context or local custom.
At the same time, handling many people from very different backgrounds tends to make one very open-minded. All these belief systems and lifestyles get absorbed after experiencing and learning about them, leading to reduced biases and prejudices, and increasing a more inclusive and accepting worldview. Fully immersing oneself in the cultures and environments of the world builds a foundation for personal experience to be enriched and for one to become a compassionate, globally aware citizen. Travel, in itself, is ambition, motivation, and immersion; it affords exactly these kinds of experiences that meet all the selection criteria of the scholarship. It offers the priceless opportunity to develop the ability to be resilient, adaptable, and get further insight into the world. Travelers come out of these more confident, empathetic, and open-minded to people around them and continue to give back to society in invaluable personal service.
Christina Taylese Singh Memorial Scholarship
From a young age, I have been deeply influenced by my identity as a Black queer woman and the unique challenges that come with it. These experiences have shaped not only my personal outlook, but also my academic and career aspirations. I am determined to enter the field of obstetrics and gynecology, driven by a commitment to address the significant healthcare disparities that affect Black women and other marginalized communities.
Growing up, my educational journey was punctuated by instances of racism and microaggressions in predominantly white institutions. These challenges often made academic environments feel isolating and unwelcoming. However, instead of succumbing to these barriers, I used them as fuel to drive my passion for learning and advocacy. This goa; was strengthened by my mother, a prospective teacher and historian, who instilled in me the value of education and a deep appreciation for our heritage. She introduced me to a world of books and learning that became my sanctuary and shaped my understanding of the world and my place within it.
As I advanced in my education, I became uncomfortably aware of the disparities in healthcare, particularly the alarming maternal mortality rates among Black women. These disparities are not just statistics; they are a harsh reality that reflects ongoing racial and socioeconomic inequalities. Motivated by these injustices, I decided to pursue a career where I could make a tangible difference. Obstetrics and gynecology is a field where I believe I can advocate effectively for better healthcare practices, ensuring that all women, especially those from marginalized communities, receive the care and respect they deserve.
In pursuit of this goal, I have dedicated myself to studying public health, medicine, and biology, focusing on how societal factors influence healthcare outcomes. My academic pursuits are complemented by active involvement in initiatives aimed at creating more inclusive and equitable environments. I lead and participate in advocacy groups on campus that focus on racial equity and healthcare equality. These activities not only prepare me for the challenges I will face in the medical field but also allow me to begin making a difference even before I complete my medical training.
My vision for the future is one where healthcare disparities no longer dictate the quality of care a person receives. I am determined to be part of the solution, using my education and training to contribute to a world where equity in healthcare is not an ideal, but a reality.
Mental Health Scholarship for Women
Navigating the academic world as a Black queer woman has profoundly shaped both my educational journey and my personal well-being. Within the predominantly white spaces of my schools, I have frequently encountered racism and microaggressions that have not only challenged my academic performance, but also impacted my mental health significantly. These experiences have lead to feelings of isolation and alienation, which takes a significant mental toll, leading to periods of self-doubt, stress, and severe anxiety. This environment has sometimes overshadowed my academic achievements and dampened my enthusiasm and love for learning, affecting my ability to perform to the best of my abilities. However, these adversities have also instilled in me a strong sense of resilience and highlighted the necessity of proactive mental health care.
To manage these challenges, I have engaged in regular counseling sessions with other students of color, which have provided a crucial safe space to process my experiences and feelings. These sessions help me unpack the impact of racial microaggressions and discrimination, reinforcing that I am not alone in facing these challenges. They also equip me with strategies to manage stress and anxiety, thus enabling me to approach my academic responsibilities with a clearer and more focused mind.
With these sessions, I have connected and built a supportive network of individuals who share similar backgrounds and experiences. This community has been essential, offering encouragement and understanding, and empowering me to face academic challenges with a renewed sense of self and less isolation. Within this network, I actively participate in advocacy and mentorship, showing and discussing the need of equity and inclusiveness on campus. These efforts not only help improve the campus environment for others, but also affirm my own sense of worth and belonging in these academic spaces.
Additionally, I find great comfort and escape in reading, which has become a cornerstone of my self-care strategy. Books offer a sanctuary where I can immerse myself in diverse perspectives and narratives that challenge and soothe my mind. This practice provides a much needed retreat from the stresses of academic life and personal challenges, helping me to recharge and gain a renewed sense of clarity and readiness to tackle everyday challenges. Books not only entertains, but also educates, broadening my understanding of different human experience, how those character, and thus I, can solve problems, and keeping my mind sharp and engaged.
Through counseling, community support, advocacy, and reading, I maintain my mental health and academic motivation. These strategies and activities ensure that I do not just survive, but thrive in my environment, prepared to overcome challenges and contribute positively to society.
Walking In Authority International Ministry Scholarship
The potential to make a great impact and be the representation that children in my community needs inspires me to get involved in my community. I am passionate about creating change, and I know that if I put in the work, I can help make significant progress in my community. I have worked to influence change in my community through advocating online and in-person in my community's Social Equity club. I have also been a person who is not afraid to stand up for change or report acts of discrimination in my community. I have helped the teachers, faculty members, adults, and teenagers, in my school create a safe space for high schoolers, whether they need a quiet space or a trusted space in which they can speak up. I have also helped put together Equity summits in which the goal is for people to leave the summit more open-minded and accepting of lifestyles and cultures that they were originally taught to hate. I also inspire myself to get involved in my community by recognizing the need for change and understanding that I can be the one to make that change. I am passionate about creating a safe and inclusive environment for all people, especially those in marginalized communities. I feel motivated to do my part to fight discrimination and bias, and I want to be a part of creating a community where everyone feels appreciated and valued. I have been involved in many events and activities to help raise awareness and spark conversations about the issues that are impacting my community. I have helped organize forums, workshops, and other events that have allowed members of my community to come together and discuss the root causes of these problems and how we can work together to create lasting solutions. I have also been involved in various projects that have aimed to bring together members of different backgrounds and create a more unified and connected community. In addition to these efforts, I have also been involved in volunteer programs that have provided assistance to those in need. From providing food and clothing to working with my peers, I have been able to give back to my community in a meaningful way. It has been incredibly inspiring to see how my efforts have made a difference in the lives of those around me, and it has motivated me to continue working for positive change in my community.
@GrowingWithGabby National Scholarship Month TikTok Scholarship
Growing with Gabby Scholarship
Over the past year, I have grown in my ability to be happy and confident no matter what I do. I have faced many challenges and self-doubts, especially on the subject of where I want to go for college and what I want to be. For this past year, I had planned on applying to a university or college with a high reputation, like Howard, Princeton, Harvard, Yale, etc. I have also doubted whether or not I follow my dream career as an OB-GYN due to its costly and rigorous academic course. After a deep conversation with my teacher regarding those topics, I came out of that conversation with a newfound sense of self-worth and confidence. I realized that no matter where I choose to attend college, I have the potential to succeed and shine. I also gained a better understanding of how to make the most out of any college experience, and how to use the lessons learned to become a successful professional in my chosen career. Since then, I have changed how I see myself. I understand that I will continue to be that wonderful woman and scholar that I am, that my self-worth isn't equal to how I'm perceived by other people, whether that's how I dress, talk, act, what grades I accumulate, or what college I do. But my overall personality stayed the same. My goals of earning my range of diplomas, degrees, and one day my doctorates, never changed, instead solidifying the fact that all my dreams will become reality. I have also had to learn to be more patient with myself and to accept that sometimes I may not be able to do something right away but that I will eventually get there if I keep working and pushing. I have also learned to be more open to opportunities and experiences that may be outside of my comfort zone. I have realized that life is not always easy and that it is important to always be learning and growing.
Through my journey of self-discovery, I have learned the importance of self-love and self-care. I have learned that it is okay to take time for myself and to practice self-care. I have also learned the power that comes from being confident in who I am and what I can do. I have learned that I am capable of achieving anything I set my mind to and that I should never let anyone tell me otherwise. I have also learned to appreciate the small moments in life and to make the most of every opportunity that comes my way. Lastly, I have learned that I am in control of my own destiny and that I should never be afraid to take risks or to pursue my dreams.
Overall, I have learned that life is about growth, learning, and finding yourself. I've come to the realization that I am proud of the woman I am today, and the woman, and doctor, I will be in the future.
Femi Chebaís Scholarship
My goal in life is to make a positive impact in others' lives. I want to be a woman who others look up to as well as be the representation that Black girls and Black women need to do what they aspire to do.