
Hobbies and interests
Ballet
Exercise And Fitness
Health Sciences
Social Justice
Neuroscience
Kylie Butler
1x
Finalist1x
Winner
Kylie Butler
1x
Finalist1x
WinnerBio
The sounds of sirens swirled through my head while I lay asleep in my bed. As my eyes jolted open and my consciousness returned, I realized the sounds weren’t a figment of my imagination. My mother rushed in, saying, “I need you to get dressed.” At 5:37 am my sister had her first of three seizures, which ultimately resulted in a diagnosis of epilepsy. How could things change so drastically overnight, I wondered? What happened within her brain to cause this? I had always been interested in science, but this experience sparked my curiosity about the brain and neuroscience.
I am fascinated by the brain, how it controls everything from our most basic movements to our highest thoughts. I’ve always felt drawn to understanding its complexities, and that’s what drives me to become a neurosurgeon. There’s still so much we don’t know about the brain, and I want to be part of discovering new breakthroughs and saving those who seem unsavable.
But my dreams go beyond the operating room. I also want to address the disparities that exist in the medical field. I’ve seen first-hand in my own family, where loved ones have delayed or avoided medical visits due to a lack of trust in the system. Becoming a doctor is not only a personal goal but a chance to inspire others, break barriers, and create meaningful change in my community’s healthcare.
Being awarded a scholarship will help me pursue the education I need to create meaningful change in the healthcare system. With financial support, I can work toward a future where healthcare is equitable, compassionate, and accessible to all.
Education
Spelman College
Bachelor's degree programMajors:
- Biology, General
Minors:
- Health/Medical Preparatory Programs
Lusher Charter School
High SchoolMiscellaneous
Desired degree level:
Bachelor's degree program
Majors of interest:
- Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Other
Career
Dream career field:
Medicine
Dream career goals:
Neurosurgeon
Sports
Cheerleading
Varsity2022 – 20253 years
Research
Computational Science
Dillard University-Quantum Computing Women In STEM Program — student researcher2022 – 2022Data Science
PFx Student Researcher – AUC Data Science Initiative — student researcher2025 – Present
Arts
The Willow School Dance Conservatory
Dance2021 – 2025
Public services
Advocacy
Enrichment 2 Empowerment — teen participant2023 – 2023Volunteering
Black Boys Read NOLA — Mentor2023 – 2025