Terry's story reminds me of my grandfather's story when he fled Vietnam during the war and sought refuge in the States. He could not speak, read, or write any english, but he worked incredibly hard with his hands to build a boat from scratch to feed his family. It reminds me that no matter the hardships, no matter the odds, persevering will always gift me the reward of accomplishment. Achievement is always within grasps no matter the person as long as you are willing to work for it. My freshman year of high school my mom lost her job and we were almost evicted. I had to work extra hours outside of school to contribute to the household to keep my brother and my parents afloat whilst my mom was searching for a new job. I was constantly stressed and tired, all while trying to maintain my grades and keeping them consistently high. My parents had always drilled the value of education, and the opportunities it brings, it all depends on how hard I am willing to work. This regular routine of school and work back to back lasted almost 6 months until my mom could secure a job. During this long period, I learned my limits, and how to push past it. I broke past the restraints that I thought my body had, and persevered. I made sacrifices between friends, relationships, and even for myself. I had lost the luxury of free time, and what used to by my own money now became theirs. I learned the true value of sacrifice, not just what I lost, but I gained for it. In living through this, my parents hard always said the same phrase "work hard so you wont end up like us." I knew they meant it with regret for themselves, but I never saw them any less than hardworking and restless if it meant to provide for their loved ones. Medicine is one of the many ways I can give back to society. I have always held health care workers in high regard, not just in academics, but in title and respect. They sacrifice their time and wellbeing to dedicate themselves to the lives of others. They reunite families and they ease the transition from passing to peace. Once I attain my Medical degree and I can practice, I will work to make quality healthcare available to anyone. Regardless of their financial status, their history, or their "trivial" needs. This direct impact I can have on people's lives is so powerful it would be a waste to not uplift others. Fulfilling their lives with hope and purpose again.