Netflix may have lost its charm for a little while post-pandemic. First with Cuties, then Dave Chappelle's The Closer. Then with the crackdown on password sharing, and finally with the stock market plummet. The most popular streaming platform hasn't been successful in keeping its 221 million subscribers as happy as they were in its prime days. It's almost as though the glory this company revelled in during the pandemic was undone by these risky new ventures. However, every now and then Netflix redeems itself through a few gems like Black Mirror, Queen's Gambit, and now, Love Death + Robots. In a similar pattern, the third volume of this animation anthology series compensates for its rather disappointing predecessor: Volume 2. Consisting of a 9-episode potpourri of sci-fi, tech, and gore, Love Death + Robots takes sly advantage of decreasing attention spans of our generation. It has half the number of episodes than its debut season but that is by no means tantamount to a decrease in quality. For a lot of people, the episode "Jibaro" is easily the cream of the crop. With the stunning use of hyper-realistic animation and a tantalising colour palette of earthy greens and metallics, this 16-minute long short tells a captivating folk tale of betrayal, desire, blood, and revenge. The award-winning Spanish director Alberto Mielgo uses panic-inducing camera movements, artful dance motions and carefully crafted sound design to tell the story of a bejewelled river siren who causes an army of conquistadors to go mad and drown at her screams, and a deaf knight who manages to survive and take advantage of the sequined enchantress. All this is done without any of the characters having to utter a single piece of dialogue. No frame is ever completely still, and the audio carefully cuts off at times, to present clues of the knight being deaf. Viewers will find themselves at the edge of their seats throughout the entire piece, and may even struggle to figure out who they should root for. The more scrupulous of us may even pick up on some social commentary regarding climate change hidden in the plot, which I won't spoil anymore for now. David Fincher fans will also find beauty and excitement in the short "Bad Travelling", which is basically Among Us meets Pirates Of The Caribbean. The story revolves around a crew on voyage with a sea-monster amongst them, and the efforts of the cold and calculating captain to save his life from the creature beneath the deck, as well from the untrustworthy crew on board. The animation consists of a gritty colour scheme, lots of light and shadow play, as well as detailed viscera, so this episode may not be for those who have just had a hearty meal. If you can stomach it though, the risk and the psychological twists this episode offers is worth it by itself. The next noteworthy episode of this series is without a doubt "The Very Pulse of the Machine". Rendered in vivid colours and a retro style of 2D animation, this short is not very different from the cliche trope of astronaut stranded-on-a-dangerous-planet. However, it is still awfully relaxing to watch after the grittiness of the rest of the series. Bright hues of hallucinatory imagery and serene voiceover of William Wordsworth's poetry allow the viewers to be immersed into its transcendental storyline. Commitment and long hours of screen time isn't a demand that needs to be met to enjoy Love Death + Robots, so if this series isn't on your bucket list already, it probably should be.

Growing up in Bangladesh, I witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of limited access to healthcare. I saw hundreds of people in my community suffer and even lose their lives because they couldn't afford proper medical treatment or essential medications. These experiences deeply impacted me and ignited a passion within me to pursue a career in biomedical engineering, with the goal of creating affordable solutions that could improve healthcare access for underserved populations. My journey to becoming a biomedical engineer has been shaped by a desire to make a difference in the lives of those who are most vulnerable. From a young age, I was drawn to the field of engineering by a fascination with science and a drive to solve complex problems. But it was the stark realities of healthcare disparities in my home country that fueled my determination to use my skills for good. As I delved into my studies, I became increasingly aware of the critical need for innovative solutions to address the challenges facing healthcare systems around the world. From developing affordable diagnostic tools to creating new methods for drug delivery, I saw endless opportunities to make a meaningful impact on global health outcomes. One of my most vivid memories is of a close family friend who passed away due to a lack of access to life-saving medication. It was a tragic reminder of the stark inequities that exist in healthcare, and it strengthened my resolve to find solutions that could prevent similar tragedies from happening in the future. With this scholarship, I am one step closer to realizing my dream of becoming a biomedical engineer and developing groundbreaking technologies that have the potential to save lives. By providing financial support for my education, this scholarship will enable me to focus on my studies and research, honing my skills and knowledge in preparation for the challenges ahead. My ultimate goal is to invent a revolutionary medical device or treatment that can provide cheap, easy, and affordable access to medicine and diagnostic tools for those who need it most. Whether it's a low-cost diagnostic device that can be used in resource-limited settings or a novel drug delivery system that reduces the cost of medication, I am committed to finding innovative solutions that address the root causes of healthcare disparities. In conclusion, my journey as a future biomedical engineer is driven by a passion to make a tangible difference in the lives of underserved communities. With the support of this scholarship, I am confident that I can turn my vision into reality and help bridge the gap in healthcare access for those who need it most. Together, we can engineer hope and create a brighter future for all.

Each musical instrument represents a unique dialect, and as a polyglot musician, I've found a way to articulate sentiments that I failed to capture through words. The analyst in me sought solace from the technical world of science and math. Researching articles, debate cases, and presentations was mentally exciting, but my brain also needed rest, which came in the form of music. I have been in harmony with music since age 6, when I learned to play the harmonium. Since then, I have desired to be more in touch with my musical side, leading me to learn the violin, guitar, ukulele, keyboard, and drums. Music was not a language I had to master; instead, it became second nature to me. Each instrument represents a unique dialect, and as a polyglot musician, I've found a way to articulate sentiments that words often fail to capture. I played a Bengali folk song on my violin in my 2nd grade cultural program, transcending barriers between South Asian genres and European instruments. My diverse musical identity was expressed not only through different instruments, but through the way I combined styles from around the world to produce new music. Drawing the bow across the strings taught me the discipline of precision, and the hauntingly beautiful notes put my mind at ease. The acoustic nature of the guitar allowed me to combine both rhythm and melody, creating sounds that are universal to every genre. It was the most versatile instrument I played. My untamed energy was synchronized with structured rhythm through the drums, and playing it for my school’s marching band let me feel a sense of oneness with my classmates, all synchronized to the same cadence. Strumming chords and fingerpicking melodies allow a tactile connection to the instrument. Just like any other creative expression, my instruments helped me paint a vibrant landscape of my emotions through melodies. I uploaded covers of my favorite songs, wrote originals, and even collaborated with my musician friends to combine our diverse talents and create musical tracks. Music has always been my refuge, a constant companion through life's ups and downs. However, when I had to sell my instruments upon moving from Bangladesh to Dhaka, my musical journey hit a major setback.The decision to part with my instruments was heart-wrenching. Each one held memories and emotions, and their absence left a void in my life. But I refused to let this be the end of my musical story. Determined to reclaim my passion, I began saving every penny I could spare. Despite financial constraints, I remained steadfast in my pursuit. Now, with the support of this scholarship, I am one step closer to reigniting my musical aspirations. This scholarship represents more than just financial aid; it's validation of my dreams and resilience. With it, I am ready to continue my musical journey, armed with determination and gratitude. Music has become my sanctuary, a space where creativity knows no bounds, and my journey of learning multiple instruments has been an enriching expedition into the realms of self-discovery and artistic expression.

Ah, calculus, the unsung hero of the mathematical realm, beloved by some and feared by many. But for those of us who revel in its intricacies, calculus is not just a subject—it's a passion, a journey, and a gateway to understanding the world around us in ways that other mathematical disciplines simply cannot match. Imagine, if you will, a world without calculus. You'd be robbed of the thrill of unraveling the mysteries of change, motion, and growth. It's like trying to navigate a labyrinth without a map or attempting to solve a Rubik's Cube blindfolded—it's possible, but far less elegant and infinitely more frustrating. For starters, calculus is the language of change. Whether it's tracking the trajectory of a rocket hurtling through space or predicting the spread of a contagious disease, calculus gives us the tools to model and analyze dynamic systems with unparalleled precision. Without calculus, we'd be stuck in a static world, unable to grasp the fluidity and complexity of the universe. But calculus is not just about crunching numbers and solving equations—it's about unlocking the secrets of nature itself. From unraveling the mysteries of quantum mechanics to understanding the dynamics of ecosystems, calculus allows us to peer beneath the surface of reality and glimpse the underlying patterns and relationships that govern the natural world. Moreover, calculus is the backbone of modern technology and innovation. From designing sleek skyscrapers that defy gravity to crafting algorithms that power self-driving cars, calculus is the driving force behind some of humanity's most remarkable achievements. Without calculus, we'd be living in a world devoid of smartphones, skyscrapers, and space exploration—a world that's far less wondrous and awe-inspiring. But perhaps most importantly, calculus is a mindset—a way of thinking that encourages curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking. It's about asking the big questions, challenging the status quo, and pushing the boundaries of what's possible. In a world that's constantly evolving and changing, calculus equips us with the tools we need to adapt, innovate, and thrive. So, why is calculus important? Because it's more than just a subject—it's a journey of discovery, a testament to human ingenuity, and a source of endless fascination. Its versatility and applicability make it an essential tool for researchers, engineers, and scientists across diverse disciplines within STEM, driving innovation and progress in the modern world. Whether you're charting the course of a comet or calculating the trajectory of a basketball, calculus is the key that unlocks the mysteries of the universe and empowers us to shape the world in ways we never thought possible.

When I first read the term “designer babies”' on a video title, my naive brain immediately thought of infants wearing Gucci bibs and Prada diapers. After I clicked on the link and learnt what designer babies really were about, I found myself completely fascinated by a topic that eventually helped me win 1st prize at my high school’s science fair. What drew me to it the most, however, was the fact that this intellectual journey did not just stop at the intricate biology of genetic engineering. There was a vast area of ethical and philosophical concerns left for me to explore. As both a STEM and humanities enthusiast, the crossroads innovation and moral contemplation was the perfect intellectual sandbox for me to dig through. As I finished the last episode of the TV show “The Boys”, I realized that this formidable fictional universe of lab-grown superheroes - often revered as Gods - was not too far from reality. I learnt that CRISPR/Cas9, the biological equivalent of a precision sculptor, could carve and reshape the sculpture of life itself. My knowledge from A level biology helped me understand the process through which genetic code could be altered, and it helped me explain to science fair judges the ease with which we could now edit DNA at affordable prices. My investment in this phenomenon grew as I saw the show portray the socio-economic concerns of taking genetic engineering to the extreme. My knowledge from debate classes allowed me to tackle the ethical dilemmas posed by this revolutionary technology. The reason why I dedicated so much time exploring this topic is because it satisfied both of my areas of interest: biochemistry and socio-cultural systems. In my first ever debate competition, I got to talk about the potential breach of consent and autonomy in the widespread use of genetic engineering. It interfered with the natural process of life, something which certain groups of people value a lot. There was also the risk of the weaponization of such technology. My debate included discussions of world powers potentially creating armies of superhuman soldiers as well as germline editing, where future generations of humans could be passed on their edited traits, hence creating “designer babies”. Because of my research, I could rebut claims of CRISPR leading to unintended consequences by talking about epigenetic editing, which directly targets the root of dysregulation while leaving the primary DNA sequence intact. I crave to further the research behind genetic engineering, be it through applying my skills in the laboratory,finding restrictions on its applications, or debating the principles of bioethics to set proper boundaries. Through the opportunities I receive at my university, I want to bring innovative solutions to problems similar to the scientific and ethical quandary behind genetic engineering, and I am confident in my ability to do so considering all factors equally, be it technological, social, or economic.

On my 6th birthday, my father gave me a children’s toolbox. In that transparent case was a 4-inch screwdriver with an orange rubber grip and a magnetized bit which soon became my favorite thing to play with. Easy-bake ovens and remote-controlled cars soon turned into heaps of motors, LEDs, circuit boards, and solenoids. What truly captivated me was the desire to unravel the secrets behind the inner workings of these contraptions. In a frenzy of curiosity, I embarked on countless adventures with my trusty screwdriver, unscrewing each component to expose the intricate world of electrical and mechanical sorcery. My screwdriver would embark on a quest to navigate the circuit-mazes of my contraptions, tracing each wire to its component. How did the stove on my toy kitchen set come to life? How did my etch-a-sketch conjure black powder from nowhere? My quest wasn't limited to the mere product; it was an unquenchable thirst for answers, and that trusty screwdriver served as the conduit for that thirst. Although I don’t manically take apart children’s playthings anymore, my inquisitiveness translated to the outside world as I got more exposed to it. I found an outlet for my hunger at my high school’s debate club, and I fell in love with the mentally rigorous echoing of ideas. The world was an intellectual sandbox, and in debate classes I dug through a Sahara of information, finding buried treasures of knowledge. With my teammates I cracked the world open: every industry, every government, every society, and every social movement was observed. I had to constantly be on the prowl for current affairs; missing out on any information would put me at a disadvantage in tournaments. My Instagram feed changed from memes to updates about the Russo-Ukrainian war. While commuting between volleyball practice, chemistry lab, newsroom meetings, or classes, my headphones played live news. Just as I once explored the contents of my toys, I continued to add new insights to my mental toolkit. As I look at this petite, 4-inch screwdriver today, I reminisce about my origin and reflect on who I have become since then. Inside, I am still that curious little girl who takes apart machines and concepts until she fully digests it. Outwardly, I am a person who connects the best facets of myself, whether it be on the volleyball court, in the lab, amongst my friends, or on the podium. I will use my inquisitiveness and knowledge gained to impact the world not only in the field of science, but socially too. I aspire to engage in interdisciplinary studies that bridge the gap between social sciences and natural sciences, unraveling the interconnectedness of human societies and the environment. I am eager to participate in research projects, engage in thought-provoking discussions, and contribute to a learning environment that thrives on curiosity. Like a shiny new screwdriver waiting in the toolbox, I wonder what I would be taking apart next and how I would be connecting it back.

In the vibrant metropolis of Dhaka, Bangladesh, I had an education at a Catholic school that followed the UK's Cambridge Assessment International Education system. It was distinguished by a strong emphasis on gaining knowledge, problem-solving, completing difficult exams, and paying close attention to specific course material. My early years of studying assiduously for my O and A levels gave me an unwavering thirst for information and the capacity to balance challenging academics with extracurricular activities. However, when I moved to Orlando, USA, before my senior year, I was faced with what you can call an “educational culture shock.” Starting in the American education system during my senior year made me feel like an outsider. I noticed little similarities between British and American curricula. Experiencing "US Government/Politics" for the first time and choosing different course difficulty levels were new to me. The sight of my new peers, armed with impressive GPAs and brimming with AP courses, disheartened yet challenged me; I had no backlog of AP classes. SATs were a new concept to me, and my preparation for it included a month of ceaseless practice tests unlike the conventional flow of PSATs to the SAT starting freshman year. Despite the challenges, I took as many AP courses as I was allowed, and my proudly achieved 1540 underscored the importance of hard work. My family's immigration to the United States was an extremely sudden decision. Caught off guard, I did not have enough time to plan my senior year at an American high school as I had always thought I would be spending it in Bangladesh. Starting anew in the American education system at my senior year was challenging; I had trouble acclimating to the different courses and grading systems as they felt different from the style I was used to my entire life. This caused me to drop AP courses I initially took out of interest, such as AP Biology and Physics C, and take AP Government and Macro instead, so I could fulfill graduation requirements. I was also unable to join clubs and sports this year as they took place after school and the bus was my only ride home. My job at Little Caesars’ also had demanding hours, cutting down on more time I could spend doing school-related activities. My high school in Bangladesh did not offer a lot of awards for outstanding results or SAT scores, and as I had spent the first 3 years of high school there, I missed out on honors such as NHS and AP scholars and merits. However, I achieved one of the best results possible in my O levels whilst finding time to do extracurriculars. I embraced the disparities in my educational backgrounds, optimizing the time I had left. In my AS levels, I took STEM classes, as my Gen-Ed requirements were fulfilled. After moving to America, I lacked US History, Art, and English credits. I started those classes online, finishing English 3, a full-year course, in 6 weeks with A grades. My resourcefulness allowed me to acclimate quickly. To catch up on AP Calculus BC without prior AB experience, I self-studied the AB syllabus over the summer, using library books and Khan Academy. College is a scary concept for many, as it is a big change in environment. However, this shift showed me I am capable and ready to tackle any challenges that may be thrown at me while I am there.