During 6th grade, I received a life-changing diagnosis—ulcerative colitis. Despite trying various medications, none were effective in achieving remission. Left with no other options, I had to get a colectomy, where I lost my entire colon. Although it wasn’t the ideal situation, I found peace in knowing that I was healthy. Years flew by, and before I knew it, I was in high school undergoing another surgery to create an internal j pouch that could function as a colon, followed by a final surgery to reverse the ileostomy to use the j pouch. Witnessing my doctors make such an immense impact on my life sparked my interest in pursuing a career in the medical field. While navigating countless appointments, medication tweaks, and hit-or-miss treatment plans, I was fascinated by the chemistry behind it. I wanted to understand the science behind each medication option. My own experiences as a patient have impressed upon me the value of pharmacists. I want to provide that same compassionate, kind care to others. I intend to pursue a career in pharmaceutical sciences where, hopefully, I can develop life-saving therapies for patients like me. My future career goals include attending UC Davis, where I will study Biology, and then later apply to Pharmacy School, where I will continue my education at a graduate level. Ultimatley, my goal is to start a career whe4re I can give back to others. Community service has impacted my life in many positive ways. Since I was eight years old I have been volunteering at my Gurdwara (Sikh Temple) to participate in "sewa" (acts of service). As a volunteer, I helped in preparing meals that are served throughout the day. My time spent volunteering also allowed me to strongly connect with my faith. As a Sikh, I found strength and solace in participating in sewa. Sewa emphasizes the importance of compassion, resilience, and community. These values have not only helped me cope with the physical and emotional challenges of my illness but also motivated me to uplift and inspire others. Through my school's Punjabi Club, I was able to volunteer and help clean up after the Nagar Kirtan (Sikh Parade) to keep the town clean. This school year, I've volunteered my time as a soccer coach and worked with 10-year-old kids to improve their skills and sportsmanship. My team was very successful and improved each day. For the past 3 years, I participated in putting together a trunk or treat at my high school for the kids of my community. As a member of FFA, I have had the privilege of volunteering my time towards elementary students with our Farm Day. We provide interactive stations for kids to get hands-on experience with agriculture from an early age. I’ve also volunteered with SayLove this past year and plan to do more events with them. Community servce has made me feel good inside and genuinly taught me humility and compassion. I hope to continue doing acts like these in college.

Envision a thunderstorm rolling in without warning. Like lightning jarring, tics can strike at any moment and disrupt one’s daily life. The buildup of tension culminates in compulsions that leave you exhausted. Tourette's is precisely like a thunderstorm, an unpredictable burst of energy that can lead to chaos if not adequately controlled. That’s what living with Tourettes is like—the sensation of unwanted impulses arising at lightning speed. Diagnosed at just five years old, I dealt with uncontrollable vocal and motor tics – head jerks, blinks, twitches, and various sounds that arose without warning. Any sense of serenity I felt was fleeting as a compulsion disrupted it, causing me to feel trapped in a never-ending cycle. The constant lack of control over my own body took a massive toll on my mental health. Not only that, but the amount of shame I felt from having this condition was unbearable. As a child, I used to pray for God to “fix” me and make me “normal,” which is something no kid should ever face. The tension I felt from suppressing my tics left me with severe anxiety. I dreaded going to school since I felt unable to fit in. The secrecy and shame around my Tourette’s, with the judgment I faced from peers and strangers, often made me feel isolated and ashamed. My self-esteem suffered from the constant fear of being judged by others, leaving me feeling trapped inside a defective body. As I got older, I slowly became a perfectionist as a way to cope with my disorder. I tried to control the uncontrollable aspects of my disorder. I put a tremendous amount of pressure on myself to get perfect grades and be a star athlete in an attempt to compensate for my differences. But this only created more anxiety within me. My inability to control my tics despite desperately controlling all other parts of my life left an intangible dehumanizing feeling. For years, I suffered from imposter syndrome. My achievements never seemed like enough. I was wrecked by the fear that I would be “outed” as an imposter if I lost control of my tics publicly, and I was terrified of the fact that people would see me differently. During my sophomore year, I discovered CBIT, Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics. Here, I learned how to recognize my urges and use reversal techniques to minimize the frequency of the compulsions, giving me a sense of control I never previously had. My newfound capability to resist the urges granted me a feeling of empowerment. Although this did not “cure” me of my disorder, it taught me that with a positive mindset, things will get better. I am 18 now, and I have grown immensely from these experiences. My former self would’ve considered tourettes my most substantial flaw. Through self-reflection, I discern that’s not the case. The attributes I’ve gained from it are strengths that set me apart, allowing me to be more open about my struggles and break the stigma regarding tics and mental health. As draining as my condition was, it gave me a priceless realization: a bad attitude is a recipe for continued misery. This experience has made me want to be an advocate for people with both physical and hidden disabilities in my future career, where I intend to become a pharmacist and hope to make a difference with the power of medicine.

I have become increasingly drawn to the world of pharmaceutical sciences. The ability to create new therapies to save lives all around the world has always fascinated me. I believe the profound impact that advancements in medicine and pharmacology can have on improving the lives of those struggling with illnesses has the potential to change the world, and I want to be a part of that. As a person of color living with Tourettes, it is my goal to get into a position where I can use my experiences to push for more treatments for disabled communities. My ultimate goal is to leverage my skills in this industry to become a leading voice for people with disabilities. Navigating the rigor of studies while managing my neurological condition and also three sports has required immense resilience and determination. There were times when my tics and the demands of my coursework overwhelmed me. However, I refused to let my limitations define me, and instead, I viewed each obstacle as an opportunity to learn and grow. I was able to give back to the community that's given me so much by volunteering my time to coach a youth soccer team. During this time, I worked hands-on with 10-year-olds. We worked on basic skills and also sportsmanship throughout the season. Witnessing my players' progression every game made me realize that leadership isn't about getting people to follow you; it's about inspiring and lifting up others to be their best selves. I plan to continue seeking opportunities where I can give back to my community. Living with Tourette's Syndrome, I deeply understand what it's like to navigate a world that isn't always understanding of differences. Often, I get judgmental stares from others when I tic. But from my experiences, I've gained the skills of resilience, empathy, and determination that I believe make me suited to connect with people of all backgrounds and drive impact in important conversations. I believe this is a great skill to have in the pharmacy field. With my skills, I can connect with patients and provide them with the best care possible. Looking ahead, I envision playing a big role in shaping the future of the pharmaceutical field. As a future leader, I aspire to conduct impactful research, develop transformative therapies, and advocate for patient accessibility. I am committed to using my voice and influence to challenge stereotypes, promote disability representation within the industry, and empower individuals of unrepresented communities to pursue their own dreams of becoming innovators and leaders. With the help of this scholarship, I would be one step closer to becoming a changemaker in the pharmaceutical field and an influence for those who have been historically underrepresented in the STEM community.

If you had told me six years ago that I had performed in a play, I would have laughed in your face. Since I have Tourettes, the thought of me performing in front of an audience and potentially having my tics disrupt the show was daunting to think about. However, when my school put on a play for Beauty and the Beast, something compelled me to audition despite the odds stacked against me. I'll admit I was extremely hesitant at first. I didn't want to risk embarrassing myself in front of my friends and teachers. Luckily, the director saw potential in me and encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone. I decided to partake in the play and at first, rehearsals were really challenging. There were moments of frustration when my tics would happen and disrupt the scene, but my castmates and the crew were incredibly supportive and acted like it didn't happen. The supportive and understanding attitude from my crew and castmates was genuinly heartwarming. As someone living with an invisible disability, its hard at times. Being faced with judgemental stares by strangers and peers was the type of thing I lived with and had gotten used to, so the support shown from my castmates was humbling. The encouragement and acceptance from them gave me the confidence to push through the frustrations of my tics, and to embrace the experience wholeheartedly. Performing in that play was a lifechanging experience that allowed me to redefine my relationship with my Tourette's. My former self would’ve considered tourettes my most substantial flaw. Through self-reflection, I discern that’s not the case. The attributes I’ve gained from it are strengths that set me apart. As draining as my condition was, it gave me a priceless realization: a bad attitude is a recipe for continued misery. By fostering a positive mindset, I learned that the power of weathering the storm was embedded in me. Although my journey hasn't been easy, it has made me more empathetic to others who are also facing struggles. I’ve learned to care for my needs, openly communicate, and educate those unfamiliar with my condition. Instead of seeing it as a limitation, I learned to accept it as an unique part of my identity. Not only has my journey with Tourettes tested my resilience, but it's also provided me with the skills needed to drive success in all areas of life, which will carry over with me as I pursue higher education. If navigating life with Tourettes taught me anything, it’s that no matter how hard things get, keep pushing forward; after all, there's always a rainbow after a storm.

I have become increasingly drawn to the world of pharmaceutical sciences. The ability to create new therapies to save lives all around the world has always fascinated me. I believe the profound impact that advancements in medicine and pharmacology can have on improving the lives of those struggling with illnesses has the potential to change the world, and I want to be a part of that. As a person of color living with Tourettes, it is my goal to get into a position where I can use my experiences to push for more treatments for disabled communities. My ultimate goal is to leverage my skills in this industry to become a leading voice for people with disabilities. Navigating the rigor of studies while managing my neurological condition and three sports has required immense resilience and determination. Although it was debilitating at times, I maintained a good attitude and moved on. There were times when my tics and the demands of my coursework overwhelmed me. However, I refused to let my limitations define me, and instead, I viewed each obstacle as an opportunity to learn and grow. Living with Tourette's Syndrome, I deeply understand what it's like to navigate a world that isn't always understanding of differences. Often, I get judgmental stares from others when I tic. But from my experiences, I've gained the skills of resilience, empathy, and determination that I believe make me suited to connect with people of all backgrounds and drive impact in important conversations. I believe this is a great skill to have in the pharmacy field. With my skills, I can connect with patients and provide them with the best care possible. Looking ahead, I envision playing a big role in shaping the future of the pharmaceutical field. As a future leader, I aspire to conduct impactful research, develop transformative therapies, and advocate for patient accessibility. I am excited for my future as this is a topic I truly am passionate about. I want to be able to make an impact not only within the disabled community but also in the world of medicine. I am committed to using my voice and influence to challenge stereotypes, promote disability representation within the industry, and empower individuals of unrepresented communities to pursue their own dreams of becoming innovators and leaders.

I have become increasingly drawn to the world of pharmaceutical sciences. The ability to create new therapies to save lives all around the world has always fascinated me. I believe the profound impact that advancements in medicine and pharmacology can have on improving the lives of those struggling with illnesses has the potential to change the world, and I want to be a part of that. As a person of color living with Tourettes, it is my goal to get into a position where I can use my experiences to push for more treatments for disabled communities. My ultimate goal is to leverage my skills in this industry to become a leading voice for people with disabilities. Navigating the rigor of studies while managing my neurological condition and three sports has required immense resilience and determination. Although it was debilitating at times, I maintained a good attitude and moved on. There were times when my tics and the demands of my coursework overwhelmed me. However, I refused to let my limitations define me, and instead, I viewed each obstacle as an opportunity to learn and grow. Living with Tourette's Syndrome, I deeply understand what it's like to navigate a world that isn't always understanding of differences. Often, I get judgmental stares from others when I tic. But from my experiences, I've gained the skills of resilience, empathy, and determination that I believe make me suited to connect with people of all backgrounds and drive impact in important conversations. I believe this is a great skill to have in the pharmacy field. With my skills, I can connect with patients and provide them with the best care possible. Looking ahead, I envision playing a big role in shaping the future of the pharmaceutical field. As a future leader, I aspire to conduct impactful research, develop transformative therapies, and advocate for patient accessibility. I am excited for my future as this is a topic I truly am passionate about. I want to be able to make an impact not only within the disabled community but also in the world of medicine. I am committed to using my voice and influence to challenge stereotypes, promote disability representation within the industry, and empower individuals of unrepresented communities to pursue their own dreams of becoming innovators and leaders. With the help of this scholarship, I would be one step closer to becoming a changemaker in the pharmaceutical field and an influence for those who have been historically underrepresented in the STEM community.

I have become increasingly drawn to the world of pharmaceutical sciences. The ability to create new therapies to save lives all around the world has always fascinated me. I believe the profound impact that advancements in medicine and pharmacology can have on improving the lives of those struggling with illnesses has the potential to change the world, and I want to be a part of that. As a person of color living with Tourettes, it is my goal to get into a position where I can use my experiences to push for more treatments for disabled communities. My ultimate goal is to leverage my skills in this industry to become a leading voice for people with disabilities. Navigating the rigor of studies while managing my neurological condition and also three sports has required immense resilience and determination. There were times when my tics and the demands of my coursework overwhelmed me. However, I refused to let my limitations define me, and instead, I viewed each obstacle as an opportunity to learn and grow. Living with Tourette's Syndrome, I deeply understand what it's like to navigate a world that isn't always understanding of differences. Often, I get judgmental stares from others when I tic. But from my experiences, I've gained the skills of resilience, empathy, and determination that I believe make me suited to connect with people of all backgrounds and drive impact in important conversations. I believe this is a great skill to have in the pharmacy field. With my skills, I can connect with patients and provide them with the best care possible. Looking ahead, I envision playing a big role in shaping the future of the pharmaceutical field. As a future leader, I aspire to conduct impactful research, develop transformative therapies, and advocate for patient accessibility. I am committed to using my voice and influence to challenge stereotypes, promote disability representation within the industry, and empower individuals of unrepresented communities to pursue their own dreams of becoming innovators and leaders. This scholarship would be a priceless investment in my aspirations. This will provide financial support to pursue my academic and professional goals in pharmaceutical sciences. This support would not only alleviate the burden on my family but would also be empowering to receive. This scholarship will give me the ability to dedicate myself fully to my studies and research endeavors. With this scholarship, I would be one step closer to becoming a changemaker in the pharmaceutical field and an influence for those who have been historically underrepresented in the STEM community.

I have become increasingly drawn to the world of pharmaceutical sciences. The ability to create new therapies to save lives all around the world has always fascinated me. I believe the profound impact that advancements in medicine and pharmacology can have on improving the lives of those struggling with illnesses has the potential to change the world, and I want to be a part of that. As a person of color living with Tourettes, it is my goal to get into a position where I can use my experiences to push for more treatments for the disabled communities. My ultimate goal is to leverage my skills in this industry to become a leading voice for people with disabilities. Navigating the rigor of studies while managing my neurological condition, and also 3 sports has required immense resilience and determination. There were times when my tics and the demands of my coursework overwhelmed me. However, I refused to let my limitations define me and instead, I viewed each obstacle as an opportunity to learn and grow. Living with Tourette's Syndrome, I deeply understand what it's like to navigate a world that isn't always understanding of differences. Often, I get judgmental stares from others when I tic. But from my experiences, I've gained the skills of resilience, empathy, and determination that I believe make me suited to connect with people of all backgrounds and drive impact in important conversations. I believe this is a great skill to have in the pharmacy field. With my skills, I can connect with patients and provide them the best care possible. Looking ahead, I envision playing a big role in shaping the future of the pharmaceutical field. As a future leader, I aspire to conduct impactful research, develop transformative therapies, and advocate for patient accessibility. I am committed to using my voice and influence to challenge stereotypes, promote disability representation within the industry, and empower individuals of unrepresented communities to pursue their own dreams of becoming innovators and leaders. This scholarship would be a priceless investment in my aspirations. This will provide financial support to pursue my academic and professional goals in pharmaceutical sciences. This support would not only alleviate the burden on my family but would also be empowering to receive. This scholarship will give me the ability to fully dedicate myself to my studies and research endeavors. With this scholarship, I would be one step closer to becoming a changemaker in the pharmaceutical field and an influence for those who have been historically underrepresented in the STEM community.

Leadership is incredibly important to me. As an individual living with Tourette's syndrome, I understand firsthand how adversity shapes character and leadership skills. My journey with tics has nurtured my growth as a confident leader since living with an often misunderstood condition has taught me to advocate for myself and others. Being a leader means empowering and bringing out the best in others. I demonstrated this throughout my pursuits as a soccer coach, where I built up shy youth into talented players. As a leader, I want to be an example for others going through similar situations so they don't feel alone and can be confident in their own skin. My leadership experience ranges from serving as an FFA officer to coaching youth soccer players. With each endeavor, I aim to promote inclusiveness and respect and bring out the talents and confidence in those around me. My condition has provided me with a unique perspective when it comes to obstacles. Instead of dwelling on limitations, I turn each obstacle into an opportunity to learn and grow. Each challenge builds character and compassion and makes me into a better person. I will carry these leadership lessons with me as I move forward with my life and continue to create welcoming environments for everyone to excel. I aim to use my leadership skills to advocate for the vulnerable and be a role model for others. For me, leadership is a lifelong endeavor of growth and learning that allows me to impact the world around me positively. With the skills I gained from all my experiences, I can lead change in the future. By embracing my differences, I found my strength, and I hope to use it to inspire others on their journeys to self-acceptance. From my experiences, I've gained the skills of resilience, empathy, and determination that I believe make me suited to connect with people of all backgrounds and drive impact in important conversations. I believe this is a great skill to have in the pharmacy field. With my skills, I can connect with patients and provide them with the best care possible. Looking ahead, I envision playing a big role in shaping the future of the pharmaceutical field. As a future leader, I aspire to conduct impactful research, develop transformative therapies, and advocate for patient accessibility. I am committed to using my voice and influence to challenge stereotypes, promote disability representation within the industry, and empower individuals of unrepresented communities to pursue their own dreams of becoming innovators and leaders.

1. I am a Punjabi-American woman living with Tourettes syndrome and ulcerative colitis. Despite my physical and social obstacles, I have never allowed my limitations to define me. Instead, I have embraced them as a unique part of my identity. I use my experiences to advocate for other unrepresented individuals like me. 2. As I have been diasgnosed with ulcertive colitis, I was constantly in and out of hte hospital. Witnessing my doctors make such an immense impact on my life sparked my interest in pursuing a career in the medical field. While navigating countless appointments, medication tweaks, and hit-or-miss treatment plans, I was fascinated by the chemistry behind it. I wanted to understand the science behind each medication option. My own experiences as a patient have impressed upon me the value of pharmacists. I want to provide that same compassionate, kind care to others. I intend to pursue a career in pharmaceutical sciences where, hopefully, I can develop life-saving therapies for patients like me. My future career goals include attending UCLA, where I will study Biology, and then later applying to Pharmacy School, where I will continue my education at a graduate level. 3. My experiences have given me a unique outlook on life and have shown me that I can achieve anything I set my mind to. If selected as a recipient of this scholarship, it would be beneficial in assisting me in achieving my career aspirations by alleviating the burden on my family. Not only did I face medical hardships from a young age, but recently, my brother has also just been diagnosed with ulcerative colitis as well, so my family is going through the process of trying different medications to gain remission again, which is very pricey. This fund will help cover expenses such as books, housing, and transportation–- all costs that would force me to take out additional loans or limit the options for the colleges I would like to attend. Most importantly, this scholarship would be empowering to receive as it would recognize not only my academic achievement but also my grit, determination, and potential to positively impact my community. My journey has been impacted by significant medical hardships and their associated financial burdens. Despite having health insurance, the countless doctors appointments, hospitalizations, and medication co-pays, the expenses add up. I promise to make the most of this investment by maintaining my grades and ultimately starting a career where I can give back to others. 4. I am planning to pay for my education with the help of my family. They will help me with as much as they can but I will also take out some loans in order to fund my education. 5. As someone who struggled with their identoty and expressing themselves, heavy metal music was an outlet for me to unapogetically be myself. While facing much of societal stigmas and the physical limitations imposed by my limitations, heavy metal was a way for me to escape all that. The way that it celebrates individuality and being unique made me fall in love with it. I also love the heavy metal community; one of embracing authenticity and challenging societal norms. This music has deeply influenced my worldview and fueled my determination to face every obstacle with ease.

“Why do bad things happen to good people?” A question that rang through my head for years on end after being diagnosed with severe ulcerative colitis. At just 11 years old, my focus had abruptly shifted from academics and sports to dealing with the daily struggles of my illness. Despite trying various medications, none were effective in inducing remission. Crushed and left with no other viable options, I had to get a colectomy. I was terrified at first, but my gastrologist took the time to explain the detailed process of the procedure, ensuring I felt informed throughout it all. Getting accustomed to life with an ostomy bag was a struggle at first, however with the guidance and support of my doctor, I eventually found the tenacity within myself to power through the daily challenges it presented. By making a conscious effort to look beyond the constraints of the bag, I found myself finding peace. Not only was my mood uplifted by not having to deal with the side effects of medication, but I finally felt like a person again. Something that I hadn’t felt in a long time. With my disease in remission, I was able to proceed with my life comfortably and put my focus on my studies, allowing me to graduate top of my 8th-grade class. Years flew by, and before I knew it, I was in high school, where I underwent another surgery to create an internal J pouch that could function as a colon, followed by a final surgery to reverse the ileostomy to use the J pouch. I was extremely blessed to have such a wonderful team of medical professionals beside me throughout the entire process. Their commitment to providing the best care possible while addressing all of my concerns made me feel calm and comfortable throughout the daunting process of remission. While navigating countless appointments, medication tweaks, and hit-or-miss treatment plans, I was fascinated by the chemistry behind it. I wanted to understand the science behind each medication option. My own experiences as a patient have impressed upon me the value of pharmacists. I want to provide that same compassionate, kind care to others. I intend to pursue a career in pharmaceutical sciences where, hopefully, I can develop life-saving therapies for patients like me. My future career goals include attending UCLA, where I will study Biology, and then later applying to Pharmacy School, where I will continue my education at a graduate level. Now, the question of why bad things happen to good people was one I clung to for the majority of my childhood. Because of my diagnosis, I firmly believed that the universe cursed me. Time and healing taught me that although ulcerative colitis was a significant setback, it wasn’t a curse. It was a growing experience where I gained the skills of grit, courage, and gratitude. I learned that bad things don’t happen to good people. They just happen. Every individual has their own battle to face; it’s part of the shared human experience. Instead of indulging in self-pity and thinking, “Why me?” I now ask myself, “What can I learn from this?” to move forward optimistically.

Envision a thunderstorm rolling in without warning. Like lightning jarring, tics can strike at any moment and disrupt one’s daily life. The buildup of tension culminates in compulsions that leave you exhausted. Tourette's is precisely like a thunderstorm, an unpredictable burst of energy that can lead to chaos if not adequately controlled. That’s what living with Tourettes is like—the sensation of unwanted impulses arising at lightning speed. Diagnosed at just five years old, I dealt with uncontrollable vocal and motor tics – head jerks, blinks, twitches, and various sounds that arose without warning. Any sense of serenity I felt was fleeting as a compulsion disrupted it, causing me to feel trapped in a never-ending cycle. The constant lack of control over my own body took a massive toll on my mental health. Not only that, but the amount of shame I felt from having this condition was unbearable. As a child, I used to pray for God to “fix” me and make me “normal”, which is something no kid should ever face. The tension I felt from suppressing my tics left me with severe anxiety. I was extremely self-conscious and dreaded going to school, where I felt unable to fit in. The secrecy, shame, and judgment I faced regarding my tics often made me feel ashamed, leaving me feeling trapped inside a defective body. As I got older, I slowly became a perfectionist as a way to cope with my disorder. I tried to control the uncontrollable aspects of my disorder in my own way. I put a tremendous amount of pressure on myself to get perfect grades and be a star athlete in an attempt to compensate for my differences. But, this only created more anxiety within me, making things worse. My inability to control my tics despite desperately controlling all other parts of my life left an intangible dehumanizing feeling. For years, I suffered from imposter syndrome. My achievements never seemed like enough. I was wrecked by the fear that I would be “outed” as an imposter if I lost control of my tics publicly, and I was terrified of the fact that people would see me differently. During my sophomore year, I discovered CBIT, Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics. Here, I learned how to recognize my urges and use reversal techniques to minimize the frequency of the compulsions, giving me a sense of control I never previously had. My newfound capability to resist the urges granted me a feeling of empowerment. Although this did not “cure” me of my disorder, it taught me that with a positive mindset, things will get better. I am 18 now, and I have grown immensely from these experiences. My former self would’ve considered tourettes my most substantial flaw. Through self-reflection, I discern that’s not the case. The attributes I’ve gained from it are strengths that set me apart, allowing me to be more open about my struggles and break the stigma regarding tics and mental health. As draining as my condition was, it gave me a priceless realization: a bad attitude is a recipe for continued misery. By fostering a positive mindset, I was able to give myself grace and embrace my differences. I now surround myself with people who will unconditionally support me regardless of my disorder. Not only has my journey with mental health tested my resilience, but it's also provided me with the skills needed to drive success in all areas of life. My mental health journey continues, but I am blessed that I have made progress in learning to accept myself for who I am.

I have become increasingly drawn to the world of pharmaceutical sciences. The ability to create new therapies to save lives all around the world has always fascinated me. I believe the profound impact that advancements in medicine and pharmacology can have on improving the lives of those struggling with illnesses has the potential to change the world, and I want to be a part of that. As a person of color living with Tourettes, it is my goal to get into a position where I can use my experiences to push for more treatments for the disabled communities. My ultimate goal is to leverage my skills in this industry to become a leading voice for people with disabilities. Navigating the rigor of studies while managing my neurological condition, and also 3 sports has required immense resilience and determination. There were times when my tics and the demands of my coursework overwhelmed me. However, I refused to let my limitations define me and instead, I viewed each obstacle as an opportunity to learn and grow. Living with Tourette's Syndrome, I deeply understand what it's like to navigate a world that isn't always understanding of differences. Often, I get judgmental stares from others when I tic. But from my experiences, I've gained the skills of resilience, empathy, and determination that I believe make me suited to connect with people of all backgrounds and drive impact in important conversations. I believe this is a great skill to have in the pharmacy field. With my skills, I can connect with patients and provide them the best care possible. Looking ahead, I envision playing a big role in shaping the future of the pharmaceutical field. As a future leader, I aspire to conduct impactful research, develop transformative therapies, and advocate for patient accessibility. I am committed to using my voice and influence to challenge stereotypes, promote disability representation within the industry, and empower individuals of unrepresented communities to pursue their own dreams of becoming innovators and leaders. The Morgan STEM Diversity Scholarship would be a priceless investment in my aspirations. This will provide financial support to pursue my academic and professional goals in pharmaceutical sciences. This support would not only alleviate the burden on my family but would also be empowering to receive. This scholarship will give me the ability to fully dedicate myself to my studies and research endeavors. With this scholarship, I would be one step closer to becoming a changemaker in the pharmaceutical field and an influence for those who have been historically underrepresented in the STEM community.

With the blow of a whistle, chaos erupts—stampedes of spriting children, parents screaming from the sidelines, feet ricocheting off a single soccer ball. I watch in awe as my players aimlessly kick the ball in hopes of scoring it into the goal. As the official coach of the U10 Blue Warriors, I had much to learn, having never coached before. As a student-athlete, sports mean a lot to me. I wanted to give back to my community and provide the same care for the youth in my community that my coaches provided to me. I have been on my high school's varsity volleyball team since I was a sophomore and received the MVP award for the 2023 season. I also played on the varsity basketball team and started as the point guard. I have done track since my junior year and am 1st in our league for 300M hurdles and triple jump. This school year, I've volunteered my time as a soccer coach for my local City League and worked with 10-year-old kids to improve their skills and sportsmanship. I spent hours before practices studying the game and devising drills for my players, but I quickly realized that despite my efforts, ten-year-olds are easily distractible. So instead, rather than harping on techniques and drills, I put my focus on building an uplifting team. Defense drills turned to zombie tag while dribbling drills became dribbling obstacle courses. The tweaking of the drills allowed the kids to be more engaged in the skill set we were working on. Slowly but surely, the unattentive kids transitioned into motivated, talented players. As time progressed, the player’s confidence grew, and we started winning more and more games. Although the relentless hours of studying soccer were helpful, it wasn’t what made me a successful coach. Building a foundation of trust and a relationship with the kids was the key to my success. By constructing a lively team culture, the players developed skills beyond just soccer. They learned the power of teamwork, confidence, and communication. Each and every kid demonstrated leadership in their own way on the field. Growing alongside these kids was an experience that provided me with insight into what a true leader really is. While coaching this season, I discovered that authentic leadership isn’t just about knowing everything but encouraging and empowering others to be their best self. Even if we lost, we took it as a lesson to improve on the field so we could come back stronger like true warriors. Although I came in as a novice, I put in the work teaching myself and learning alongside my players, which reflected in our success on the field. This experience has taught me a lot about communication and leadership skills, and I want to take these skills and use them for my future career path, where I intend to open up my own pharmacy. I will use the skills of problem solving, critical thinking, teamwork, and time management, for my future endeavors.

As a Punjabi American, my heritage has had a profound influence on my life, shaping my identity, values, and the way I view life in so many ways. Specifically, being able to live with my grandparents and listen to their words of wisdom while growing up made me realize how meaningful my culture actually is to me. Every night my Bibi ji and I pray together before bed. It’s a tradition we started after I got diagnosed with ulcerative colitis, so we would pray for my health every night before we slept. Though I may not always fully comprehend the meaning behind the words, I genuinely am captivated by the devotion that radiates from Bibi ji during these moments of our prayer. Watching her recite prayers makes me appreciate my culture and feel blessed to be in the position I am. By praying daily I started to feel less anxious throughout the day and also more connected with my grandmother. My mother is another big reason my culture plays such a big part of my identity today. Any time she can, she reminds me of the core values of a Sikh and teaches me the right way to do things. When I was younger, she often took me to the Gurdwara to engage in sewa so I could learn the values of humility and compassion. Not only that but she introduced me to many cool parts of my culture, making me fall in love with it. Whether it was learning how to roll a roti, or learning bhangra in front of the computer in my parents bedroom, she was there encouraging me. Every morning before school, my grandparents and I gather to eat breakfast before my parents and brother wake up. Baba ji, with his withered hands and wisdom, sometimes tells me stories about his childhood and the hardships he and my Bibi ji went through to get here. He says this with the intent of encouraging me to work hard and be successful myself, always reminding me that he will be there for me. It's during conversations like these that I think about how important my heritage really is to me, as it represents the resilience and determination of my grandparents. It is because of their sacrifices that I have been given the privilege of my current circumstances. Because of them, I was blessed enough to have the opportunity to pursue my academic and personal aspirations without the same burdens that my grandparents had dealt with. I strive to follow my dreams and become successful to thank them. Knowing that with each milestone I achieve, I am not only fulfilling my own potential but also validating the huge investment my grandparents have made in my future. It's because of my culture that I have the drive and willingness to always do my best. My heritage not only allows me to connect with my grandparents but also represents my core moral values, which define who I am. I believe my faith will help me succeed in my career as it has taught me core values that I can use in the future to connect with others.

“Why do bad things happen to good people?” A question that rang through my head for years on end after being diagnosed with severe ulcerative colitis. At just 11 years old, my focus had abruptly shifted from academics and sports to dealing with the daily struggles of my illness. Despite trying various medications, none were effective in inducing remission. Crushed and left with no other viable options, I had to get a colectomy. I was terrified at first, but my gastrologist took the time to explain the detailed process of the procedure, ensuring I felt informed throughout it all. Getting accustomed to life with an ostomy bag was a struggle at first; however, with the guidance and support of my doctor, I eventually found the tenacity within myself to power through the daily challenges it presented. By making a conscious effort to look beyond the constraints of the bag, I found myself finding peace. Not only was my mood uplifted by not having to deal with the side effects of medication, but I finally felt like a person again. Something that I hadn’t felt in a long time. With my disease in remission, I was able to proceed with my life comfortably and put my focus on my studies, allowing me to graduate top of my 8th-grade class. Years flew by, and before I knew it, I was in high school, where I underwent another surgery to create an internal J pouch that could function as a colon, followed by a final surgery to reverse the ileostomy to use the J pouch. I was extremely blessed to have such a wonderful team of medical professionals beside me throughout the entire process. Their commitment to providing the best care possible while addressing all of my concerns made me feel calm and comfortable throughout the daunting process of remission. While navigating countless appointments, medication tweaks, and hit-or-miss treatment plans, I was fascinated by the chemistry behind it. I wanted to understand the science behind each medication option. My own experiences as a patient have impressed upon me the value of pharmacists. I want to provide that same compassionate, kind care to others. I intend to pursue a career in pharmaceutical sciences where, hopefully, I can develop life-saving therapies for patients like me. My team of healthcare professionals has always inspired me to do similar work as them, and they're the reasons why I am pursuing this career path. My future career goals include attending UCLA, where I will study Biology, and then later applying to Pharmacy School, where I will continue my education at a graduate level. Now, the question of why bad things happen to good people was one I clung to for the majority of my childhood. Because of my diagnosis, I firmly believed that the universe cursed me. Time and healing taught me that although ulcerative colitis was a significant setback, it wasn’t a curse. It was a growing experience where I gained the skills of grit, courage, and gratitude. I learned that bad things don’t happen to good people. They just happen. Every individual has their own battle to face; it’s part of the shared human experience. Instead of indulging in self-pity and thinking, “Why me?” I now ask myself, “What can I learn from this?” to move forward optimistically.

Envision a thunderstorm rolling in without warning. Like lightning jarring, tics can strike at any moment and disrupt one’s daily life. The buildup of tension culminates in compulsions that leave you exhausted. Tourette's is precisely like a thunderstorm, an unpredictable burst of energy that can lead to chaos if not adequately controlled. That’s what living with Tourettes is like—the sensation of unwanted impulses arising at lightning speed. Diagnosed at just five years old, I dealt with uncontrollable vocal and motor tics – head jerks, blinks, twitches, and various sounds that arose without warning. Any sense of serenity I felt was fleeting as a compulsion disrupted it, causing me to feel trapped in a never-ending cycle. The constant lack of control over my own body took a massive toll on my mental health. Not only that, but the amount of shame I felt from having this condition was unbearable. As a child, I used to pray for God to “fix” me and make me “normal,” which is something no kid should ever face. The tension I felt from suppressing my tics left me with severe anxiety. I was extremely self-conscious and dreaded going to school, where I felt unable to fit in. The secrecy and shame around my Tourette’s, alongside the judgment I faced from peers and strangers, often made me feel isolated and ashamed. My self-esteem suffered from the constant fear of being judged by others, leaving me feeling trapped inside a defective body. As I got older, I slowly became a perfectionist as a way to cope with my disorder. I tried to control the uncontrollable aspects of my disorder in my own way. I put a tremendous amount of pressure on myself to get perfect grades and be a star athlete in an attempt to compensate for my differences. But this only created more anxiety within me, making things worse. My inability to control my tics despite desperately controlling all other parts of my life left an intangible dehumanizing feeling. For years I suffered from imposter syndrome. My achievements never seemed like enough. I was wrecked by the fear that I would be “outed” as an imposter if I lost control of my tics publicly, and I was terrified of the fact that people would see me differently. During my sophomore year, I discovered CBIT, Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics. Here, I learned how to recognize my urges and use reversal techniques to minimize the frequency of the compulsions, giving me a sense of control I never previously had. My newfound capability to resist the urges granted me a feeling of empowerment. Although this did not “cure” me of my disorder, it taught me that with a positive mindset, things will get better. I am 18 now, and I have grown immensely from these experiences. My former self would’ve considered tourettes my most substantial flaw. Through self-reflection, I discern that’s not the case. The attributes I’ve gained from it are strengths that set me apart, allowing me to be more open about my struggles and break the stigma regarding tics and mental health. As draining as my condition was, it gave me a priceless realization: a bad attitude is a recipe for continued misery. By fostering a positive mindset, I was able to give myself grace and embrace my differences. If I were to give anyone advice regarding this circumstance, I would tell them to think positively and that their limitations don't define them. Instead, they're strengths and unique traits that make you who you are.

Pursuing my academic aspirations while managing Tourette's syndrome and ulcerative colitis simultaneously has challenged me in many ways, yet ultimately made me a more resilient individual. Due to my chronic illness, I had to live a good chunk of my life with a bag on my abdomen. Although it wasn't the ideal situation, it made me healthier, which was the ultimate goal. That experience led to my interest in the medical field, where I intend to pursue a career in pharmaceutical sciences. Even though I have tics, I have not let it hold me back from doing things I'm passionate about, such as athletics, leadership roles, and other activities. I was on the varsity volleyball team for 3 years and received the MVP award for this season. I am on the varsity basketball team, starting as the point guard. I intend to join the track team again this year and hopefully keep my title as 1st in the league for 300M hurdles and triple jump. Giving back to my community is also important to me, as I volunteered to be a soccer coach for the city league simultaneously during my volleyball season. Juggling two sports with my academics was difficult, but with enough grit I was able to do it. Currently, I am serving as vice president of the Punjabi club, where I assist in running meetings and organizing cultural events. I was the president of FNL, ran meetings, and planned an art showcase for mental health. Public speaking is a passion of mine that I discovered through FFA. During my sophomore year, I placed 1st in the Sacramento Valley RCD Speak Off and then 2nd at the state level. My health conditions, mixed with my involvement, could overwhelm me at times, but I don't let it stop me from excelling. Witnessing my doctors make such an immense impact on my life sparked my interest in pursuing a career in the medical field. While navigating countless appointments, medication tweaks, and hit-or-miss treatment plans, I was fascinated by the chemistry behind it. I wanted to understand the science behind each medication option. My own experiences as a patient have impressed upon me the value of pharmacists. I want to provide that same compassionate, kind care to others. I intend to pursue a career in pharmaceutical sciences where, hopefully, I can develop life-saving therapies for patients like me. I intend to carry on my studies at UCLA, where I am going to obtain a bachelor's in biology, and then later apply to pharmacy school, where I plan to obtain my Pharm. D. Though once debilitating, my diagnosis put me on a path to finding my calling, and for that, I am thankful. Driven by my experience, I am excited to move forward with the next chapter in my life and obtain my Pharm D. to help improve lives through medicine.

Envision a thunderstorm rolling in without warning. Like lightning jarring, tics can strike at any moment and disrupt one’s daily life. The buildup of tension culminates in compulsions that leave you exhausted. Tourette's is precisely like a thunderstorm, an unpredictable burst of energy that can lead to chaos if not adequately controlled. That’s what living with Tourettes is like—the sensation of unwanted impulses arising at lightning speed. Diagnosed at just five years old, I dealt with uncontrollable vocal and motor tics – head jerks, blinks, twitches, and various sounds that arose without warning. Any sense of serenity I felt was fleeting as a compulsion disrupted it, causing me to feel trapped in a never-ending cycle. The constant lack of control over my own body took a massive toll on my mental health. Not only that, but the amount of shame I felt from having this condition was unbearable. As a child, I used to pray for God to “fix” me and make me “normal”, which is something no kid should ever face. The tension I felt from suppressing my tics left me with severe anxiety. I was extremely self-conscious and dreaded going to school, where I felt unable to fit in. My self-esteem suffered. The secrecy and shame around my Tourette’s, alongside the judgment I faced from peers and strangers, often made me feel isolated and ashamed. My self-esteem suffered from the constant fear of being judged by others, leaving me feeling trapped inside a defective body. I genuinely felt like I would never be successful in life when I was being held back by my limitations. As I got older, I slowly became a perfectionist as a way to cope with my disorder. I tried to control the uncontrollable aspects of my disorder in my own way. I put a tremendous amount of pressure on myself to get perfect grades and be a star athlete in an attempt to compensate for my differences. But, this only created more anxiety within me, making things worse. My inability to control my tics despite desperately controlling all other parts of my life left an intangible dehumanizing feeling. For years I suffered from imposter syndrome. My achievements never seemed like enough. I was wrecked by the fear that I would be “outed” as an imposter if I lost control of my tics publicly, and I was terrified of the fact that people would see me differently. During my sophomore year, I discovered CBIT, Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics. Here, I learned how to recognize my urges and use reversal techniques to minimize the frequency of the compulsions, giving me a sense of control I never previously had. My newfound capability to resist the urges granted me a feeling of empowerment. Although this did not “cure” me from my disorder, it taught me that with a positive mindset, things will get better. I am 18 now and I have grown immensely from these experiences. My former self would’ve considered tourettes my most substantial flaw. Through self-reflection, I discern that’s not the case. The attributes I’ve gained from it are strengths that set me apart, allowing me to be more open about my struggles and break the stigma regarding tics and mental health. As draining as my condition was, it gave me a priceless realization: a bad attitude is a recipe for continued misery. By fostering a positive mindset, I was able to give myself grace and embrace my differences. I now surround myself with people who will unconditionally support me regardless of my disorder. This entire journey has led me to realize what success truly is. It's accepting who you are and living life to the fullest with no regrets. I believe this scholarship will help me be even MORE successful by allowing me to financial help to achieve my dreams. Not only would it be empowering to receive this scholarship, but it will relieve the financial burden on me and allow me to focus on advocating for unrepresented communities/people like me. Not only has my journey with mental health tested my resilience, but it's also provided me with the skills needed to drive success in all areas of life. I know whatever I do I will be successful, and this scholarship will bring me one step closer in achieving those goals.

“Why do bad things happen to good people?” A question that rang through my head for years on end after being diagnosed with severe ulcerative colitis. At just 11 years old, my focus had abruptly shifted from academics and sports to dealing with the daily struggles of my illness. Despite trying various medications, none were effective in inducing remission. Crushed and left with no other viable options, I had to get a colectomy. I was terrified at first, but my gastrologist took the time to explain the detailed process of the procedure, ensuring I felt informed throughout it all. Getting accustomed to life with an ostomy bag was a struggle at first, however with the guidance and support of my doctor, I eventually found the tenacity within myself to power through the daily challenges it presented. By making a conscious effort to look beyond the constraints of the bag, I found myself finding peace. Not only was my mood uplifted by not having to deal with the side effects of medication, but I finally felt like a person again. Something that I hadn’t felt in a long time. With my disease in remission, I was able to proceed with my life comfortably and put my focus on my studies. Years flew by, and before I knew it, I was in high school, where I underwent another surgery to create an internal J pouch that could function as a colon, followed by a final surgery to reverse the ileostomy to use the J pouch. I was extremely blessed to have such a wonderful team of medical professionals beside me throughout the entire process. Their commitment to providing the best care possible while addressing all of my concerns made me feel calm and comfortable throughout the daunting process of remission. While navigating countless appointments, medication tweaks, and hit-or-miss treatment plans, I was fascinated by the chemistry behind it. I wanted to understand the science behind each medication option. My own experiences as a patient have impressed upon me the value of pharmacists. I want to provide that same compassionate, kind care to others. I intend to pursue a career in pharmaceutical sciences where, hopefully, I can develop life-saving therapies for patients like me. My future career goals include attending UCLA, where I will study Biology, and then later applying to Pharmacy School, where I will continue my education at a graduate level. Now, the question of why bad things happen to good people was one I clung to for the majority of my childhood. Because of my diagnosis, I firmly believed that the universe cursed me. Time and healing taught me that although ulcerative colitis was a significant setback, it wasn’t a curse. It was a growing experience where I gained the skills of grit, courage, and gratitude. I learned that bad things don’t happen to good people. They just happen. Every individual has their own battle to face; it’s part of the shared human experience. Instead of indulging in self-pity and thinking, “Why me?” I now ask myself, “What can I learn from this?” to move forward optimistically.

“Why do bad things happen to good people?” A question that rang through my head for years on end after being diagnosed with severe ulcerative colitis. At just 11 years old, my focus had abruptly shifted from academics and sports to dealing with the daily struggles of my illness. Despite trying various medications, none were effective in inducing remission. Crushed and left with no other viable options, I had to get a colectomy. I was terrified at first, but my gastrologist took the time to explain the detailed process of the procedure, ensuring I felt informed throughout it all. Getting accustomed to life with an ostomy bag was a struggle at first; however, with the guidance and support of my doctor, I eventually found the tenacity within myself to power through the daily challenges it presented. By making a conscious effort to look beyond the constraints of the bag, I found myself finding peace. Not only was my mood uplifted by not having to deal with the side effects of medication, but I finally felt like a person again. Something that I hadn’t felt in a long time. With my disease in remission, I was able to proceed with my life comfortably and put my focus on my studies, allowing me to graduate top of my 8th-grade class. Years flew by, and before I knew it, I was in high school, where I underwent another surgery to create an internal J pouch that could function as a colon, followed by a final surgery to reverse the ileostomy to use the J pouch. I was extremely blessed to have such a wonderful team of medical professionals beside me throughout the entire process. Their commitment to providing the best care possible while addressing all of my concerns made me feel calm and comfortable throughout the daunting process of remission. While navigating countless appointments, medication tweaks, and hit-or-miss treatment plans, I was fascinated by the chemistry behind it. I wanted to understand the science behind each medication option. My own experiences as a patient have impressed upon me the value of pharmacists. I want to provide that same compassionate, kind care to others. I intend to pursue a career in pharmaceutical sciences where, hopefully, I can develop life-saving therapies for patients like me. My future career goals include attending UCLA, where I will study Biology, and then later applying to Pharmacy School, where I will continue my education at a graduate level. Now, the question of why bad things happen to good people was one I clung to for the majority of my childhood. Because of my diagnosis, I firmly believed that the universe cursed me. Time and healing taught me that although ulcerative colitis was a significant setback, it wasn’t a curse. It was a growing experience where I gained the skills of grit, courage, and gratitude. I learned that bad things don’t happen to good people. They just happen. Every individual has their own battle to face; it’s part of the shared human experience. Instead of indulging in self-pity and thinking, “Why me?” I now ask myself, “What can I learn from this?” to move forward optimistically.

Pursuing my academic aspirations while managing Tourette's syndrome has challenged me in many ways, yet ultimately made me a more resilient individual. Growing up, I dealt with tics that caused me to make involuntary noises and jolt my head forward. Any sense of serenity I felt was fleeting as a compulsion disrupted it. I felt trapped in a never-ending cycle. Despite the interruptions, I maintained a 4.0 GPA while juggling three sports and being an avid public speaker. I took AP classes throughout my high school career alongside college courses. Just because I had Tourettes, I didn't want it to define me to limit me from reaching my full potential, so I strived to challenge myself. I have not let it hold me back from doing things I'm passionate about, such as athletics, leadership roles, and other activities. I was on the varsity volleyball team for three years and received the MVP award for this season. I also played on the varsity basketball team, starting as the point guard. Currently, I am on the track team this year and strive to keep my title as 1st in the league for 300M hurdles and triple jump. Giving back to my community is also important to me, as I volunteered to be a soccer coach for the city league simultaneously during my volleyball season. Juggling three sports with my academics was difficult, but with enough grit I was able to do it.