I chose to study microbiology because I have always been passionate about healthcare and helping others. My interest in medicine began at a young age after losing my grandmother to cancer when I was seven years old. Watching the doctors and nurses care for her with compassion and dedication inspired me to pursue a career where I could make a difference in people’s lives. Initially, I planned to become a doctor, but as I grew and learned more about myself and the healthcare field, I realized that becoming a physician assistant aligned more closely with my personal and professional goals. I value the ability to build strong relationships with patients while also maintaining a healthy work-life balance while still making a meaningful impact on others. As a microbiology student with a minor in Spanish at University of Tennessee, Knoxville, I hope to combine science, medicine, and communication to better serve diverse communities. My short-term goals include maintaining strong academic performance, gaining hands-on clinical experience, and preparing for physician assistant school. I also hope to continue improving my Spanish so I can communicate effectively with Spanish-speaking patients and reduce language barriers in healthcare settings. My long-term goal is to become a physician assistant who works with underserved communities both in the United States and internationally. I want to use my education and experiences to provide compassionate healthcare to people who may not otherwise have access to quality medical care. Being a Hispanic female in healthcare strongly influences my career goals. Hispanic women are still underrepresented in many areas of medicine and science, and I want to help change that. Growing up, I did not often see Latina women represented in healthcare professions, which motivates me to become someone younger girls can look up to. I want to show other young Hispanic women that they are capable of succeeding in science and healthcare careers regardless of the obstacles they may face. I also believe my cultural background and Spanish minor will allow me to better connect with and advocate for patients from diverse backgrounds. This scholarship would greatly help relieve the financial burden of college expenses for my family. My dad is currently the main person helping pay for my education, and I know the cost of tuition, textbooks, housing, and other expenses can be overwhelming. Receiving this scholarship would ease some of that pressure and allow me to focus more on my education, clinical experience, and future goals. Most importantly, it would help me continue pursuing a career dedicated to helping others and making a positive impact in underserved communities.

One lyric from Olivia Rodrigo that resonates deeply with my personal experience is from her song traitor “You betrayed me and I know that you’ll never feel sorry.” These lyrics connect to an important period of growth and change in my life during my first year of college. Starting college was already a major transition for me because I was adjusting to a completely new environment, balancing academics, and trying to discover who I was becoming as a young adult. During this time, I met someone who quickly became a very significant part of my life. I am naturally someone who does not open up easily, so building a close relationship and allowing myself to trust another person was a major step outside of my comfort zone. For six months, this relationship became a central part of my college experience and played a large role in shaping my first year. When the relationship ended, it was difficult because it forced me to reevaluate myself and learn how to move forward independently. At the time, I felt like I had lost someone who had been a major part of my daily life and emotional support system. What I connect to most in Olivia Rodrigo’s music is the honesty in her lyrics. She expresses emotions like heartbreak, disappointment, and confusion in a way that feels genuine and relatable. Listening to her music helped me realize that experiences like heartbreak are also opportunities for growth and self-discovery. While the relationship ending was painful, it ultimately became a turning point that taught me resilience and self-worth. Over time, I began focusing more on myself, my education, and the future I want to build. Instead of letting that experience define me negatively, I used it as motivation to grow stronger and become more independent. I started learning how to find confidence within myself rather than relying on another person for validation or happiness. As a microbiology student pursuing a future career in healthcare, I have learned that challenges can shape us into more compassionate and understanding individuals. This experience reminded me that growth often comes from difficult moments, and it helped me become more self-aware, motivated, and hopeful about the future ahead of me. I think a lot of her songs help with heartbreak but also finding yourself again. I know that her lyrics and music helped me through a lot of these times especially in my first year of college.

My name is Lauren Goward and I am a microbiology student with a minor in Spanish at University of Tennessee, Knoxville. I am originally from Seattle but moved to Tennessee around 7 years ago. I graduated a year early from high school to start my college studies. Working in healthcare has always been a dream of mine. My grandma passed away from cancer when I was 7 and ever since then I wanted to be a doctor to help people. Recently I changed my career path from doctor to physician assistant because I realized I wanted more of a work life balance. I was originally majoring in premed with a minor in Spanish, but changed it to microbiology now that I will be pursuing a career as a PA. I have always wanted to help people due to seeing my grandma sick and how the doctors and nurses really took initiative to make sure she was comfortable. This was a big part in my life that made me want to be in healthcare because I want to help people the way she was helped. Another reason is because I want to use my minor in Spanish to be able to go to Spanish speaking countries and help communities that do not have access to adequate healthcare. I am half Hispanic and there are not a lot of Hispanic females in the healthcare field and I want that to change. I want to show other Latinas that you can pursue your dreams of going into healthcare. I hope to do this when I am able to go to other countries and provide healthcare to underserved communities. Helping and serving my community is something I have always strived to do. I want to be able to use my education to help others. I hope to make a difference not only in the United States but also beyond. I want to help people but also inspire young girls that you can be anything you want to be. In addition to my academic goals, I also enjoy being involved in my community and gaining experiences that help me grow as a future healthcare provider. I believe that compassion, communication, and understanding are just as important as medical knowledge when caring for patients. As I continue my education and work toward becoming a physician assistant, I hope to make a lasting impact on the lives of others through both healthcare and community service.

I am currently a freshman at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, majoring in pre-med with a double minor in artificial intelligence and Spanish. Along with my academics, I am actively involved in campus life as a member of a sorority and a Spanish-speaking club. These organizations have helped me grow both socially and professionally while allowing me to strengthen my leadership skills and stay connected to my culture. During my time in college, I hope to study abroad, become the president of my sorority, and join a medical fraternity. I believe these opportunities will help me develop confidence, responsibility, and teamwork skills that are essential in the medical field. In addition, I plan to volunteer at the hospital connected to my school in order to gain hands-on clinical experience and exposure to patient care. I am also interested in possibly working in a pharmacy, as I feel it would give me valuable insight into medications, patient interactions, and the healthcare system as a whole. All of these activities are passions of mine, and I believe they will strongly prepare me for PA school while helping me grow as both a student and future healthcare provider. I have always dreamed of working in the medical field and originally thought that I wanted to become a doctor or surgeon. However, since beginning college, my perspective has evolved as I learned more about different healthcare roles. I am now striving to become an emergency room physician assistant because this path aligns more closely with my future goals. Becoming a PA offers the opportunity to provide high-quality patient care while also allowing for flexibility, travel, and a healthier work-life balance, which is important to me as I hope to have a family in the future. After completing PA school, I hope to travel to Spanish-speaking countries to help impoverished communities that lack access to adequate healthcare. As a Hispanic woman, I am deeply passionate about serving my community and addressing healthcare disparities. I want to use my language skills and medical training to provide compassionate, culturally competent care to underserved populations. Beyond providing healthcare, I hope to inspire and encourage other Hispanic girls to pursue careers in medicine. There is currently a lack of Hispanic females represented in the medical field, and one of my goals is to help change that. I want to be a role model, showing them that success in healthcare is possible and offering guidance and support to those who share similar dreams.

I want to be honest about my relationship with math, because it has played a significant role in my academic growth. For a long time, I disliked math and even considered not applying for this scholarship because of it. As a child, I struggled tremendously with math, to the point where it would bring me to tears. I often felt frustrated and alone, believing that no one could truly help me understand it. During high school, I had a math teacher who completely transformed the way I viewed the subject. I was initially afraid to ask her for help, but when I finally did, it became a turning point in my academic life. She taught math by applying it to real-world situations and explaining concepts in a way that made sense to me. For the first time, math felt approachable and meaningful rather than intimidating. That experience not only changed my relationship with math but also influenced how I approach learning and teaching. I began to understand that struggling does not mean failure, it means that concepts simply need to be explained differently. I carried those strategies with me, and in my final year of high school, I became a peer tutor. I had the opportunity to tutor younger students in multiple subjects, including math, and I made it a priority to be patient, encouraging, and adaptable. I wanted to be the kind of tutor I once needed, someone who listens, explains concepts in relatable ways, and creates a safe space for questions. Now that I am in college, I continue to use the strategies my high school teacher taught me. Math is no longer something I fear; instead, it is a tool I use in my everyday life and academic work. Math has honestly taught me perseverance and confidence.

One of my goals in pursuing a career in healthcare is to improve the lives of others by providing compassionate, accessible, and culturally competent medical care. I am very motivated to serve underserved communities, both within the United States and internationally, where access to healthcare and medical education is often limited. I would particularly like to work in Spanish-speaking countries, as I am fluent in Spanish and can communicate effectively with patients. Being able to speak the native language builds trust and builds a stronger relationship. As a Hispanic female, I am aware of the lack of representation of Hispanic physicians and physician assistants in the medical field. This underrepresentation can lead to disparities in care, especially in minority communities. I want to serve as both a healthcare provider and a role model, showing young girls, especially Latina girls, that they belong in medicine and are capable of pursuing careers in science and healthcare. By sharing my experiences and passion for medicine, I hope to inspire future generations not to be afraid of challenging paths. In the future, I am interested in helping patients with lung disease and rare medical conditions. These patients often face delayed diagnoses, limited treatment options, and feelings of isolation due to a lack of specialized care. Lung diseases such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and pulmonary infections can be especially difficult to manage in underserved communities where environmental factors and limited resources. Rare medical conditions present an additional challenge, as patients frequently struggle to find providers who are knowledgeable about their disease. I hope to advocate for these patients by staying informed on emerging research and collaborating with specialists so I am educated on this care. Beyond clinical treatment, I strongly believe in the importance of patient education and community outreach. Many health conditions, particularly lung diseases, can be better managed when patients understand their triggers, medications, and long-term care plans. I want to take time to educate patients and families in a way that is understandable and empowering, especially in communities with limited health literacy. Additionally, I hope to participate in outreach programs, medical mission trips, and school-based initiatives that promote preventive care and health awareness. Ultimately, my goal is not only to heal through medicine but also to make healthcare engaging, inclusive, and inspiring. By combining medical expertise with cultural understanding, education, and mentorship, I plan to improve the lives of individuals facing serious medical challenges while helping to create a more equitable and compassionate healthcare system.

I have chosen to pursue a degree in healthcare because serving others has always been my passion. Ever since I was little I knew I wanted to help others. I went back and forth a lot between lawyer, physicians assistant, and FBI agent. All of those jobs serve the community and make large impacts in people lives. Being a physicians assistant interested me the most because I have always loved science and how it relates to the world around us. My junior year of high School I took AP bio and it ended up being my favorite class. After taking AP bio I wanted to shadow other healthcare workers and this included nurses and doctors. I had the opportunity to do two shadowing programs at a local hospital and I was able to see the different specialities within the hospital. Shadowing many different doctors opened my eyes to a lot. I was able to see what the day to day is like and it helped me make my decision to be in the healthcare field. I love how the doctors related to people even when they were low on time or stressed. I truly admired what they did and saw myself doing something similar. One of my goals is to serve underserved communities as a PA. I am half hispanic and would love to go to a Spanish speaking country and teach young girls about STEM as well as how to help their community. Being in the healthcare field will give me the right tools to do this. As a woman that is planning to go into the healthcare field, I hope that I can inspire and teach other young women to not be afraid to go into the medical field and have a voice. I want to teach others hispanic women that they can do it as there are very few hispanic doctors or PA's. I hope that when I become a PA other young girls feel comfortable asking me about the medical field, and I hope I can guide them through it. Overall, being in the healthcare field is all about serving others and being there to support women. The medical field is hard and competitive so my hope is that I am able to make it a little less stressful for others and be there to empower and uplift other women that are coming into it who feel afraid.

My name is Lauren Goward, and I am supposed to be a Junior in high school, but I am graduating a year early. I chose to graduate a year early because I plan on going into the medical field and would like to get a head start on college and my medical degree. I have always had a passion for helping others. My grandmother had cancer when I was little, and that is what ignited the flame inside of me to become a physician. I saw that I truly enjoyed helping people and I always loved science so I started volunteering at a hospital near me and fell in love with the high-speed pace. I shadowed some doctors and nurses and fell in love with the medical field. It is genuinely so diverse and fulfilling. As I shadowed doctors and learned about all the different fields I liked emergency room surgery. I plan to go into the medical field to become an emergency room surgeon. One of the main reasons I want to be a surgeon is because there are very few Latinas in the medical field, and much less as surgeons. As a Latina Female, I strive to change the statistics. I want there to be more Latina women in the STEM field. I hope to one day travel to a Spanish-speaking country and teach young girls about the importance of STEM. I want to show them the opportunities that the medical field has. I also want to show young girls that Latinas can also be a part of the medical field. I have faced a lot of adversity as someone who is trying to be a surgeon, but I have not let that stop me and I don't want that to deter other young females from pursuing their dreams. One of my inspirations to go into the medical field is my mom. My mother is not in the medical field but she is a very influential person in my life. She left a toxic relationship when I was young and never looked back. She has always made a path for herself and never let anyone tell her otherwise. My mom has always motivated me and showed me true courage and strength. My mom is one of my heroes who I will forever be grateful for. When I become an ER surgeon I hope to make an impact on others and their lives. I aspire to encourage young Latinas like myself, and educate them on the endless opportunities the medical field has to offer.

Ever since I was five years old, I knew I wanted to help others. Growing up, I watched my grandmother battle cancer, a fight that eventually took her life. Witnessing her struggle deeply impacted me, but it also fueled my desire to care for others. My mom often tells me I have a natural gift for compassion for others. These qualities became even more evident during the most challenging periods of my life. At 15, I developed an eating disorder that I have worked effortlessly to overcome with my family and doctors by my side. This journey taught me resilience, self-awareness, and the importance of mental health, as I feel it solidified my passion for supporting others through struggles. My experiences have shaped my ultimate dream of becoming an emergency room surgeon. The fast-paced, high-stakes environment of the ER aligns with my determination and drive to make a difference in people's lives during critical moments. Beyond this, I hope to empower other young girls who face challenges like my own, showing them that healing and growth are possible. Additionally, as a proud Hispanic female aspiring to join the healthcare field, I want to inspire and uplift Latinas across the United States and beyond. Representation for Hispanic females in medicine is limited, and I am determined to break barriers while encouraging others to do the same. I plan to travel to a Spanish Speaking country in the future where I can use my Spanish language to teach young Latinas about the opportunities in the STEM field. According to 19thNews only 2 percent of Latinas are doctors. I eventually want to change this statistic and increase the amount of Latinas in the STEM field. I have faced a lot of adversity in my life by being a Latina female who dreams of going into the STEM field. Many people including my own peers have told me it is not possible due to not being the right "Ethnicity" to pursue this degree, but I have not let that deter me. My main goal when I become a doctor is to make sure young females don't let those kind of comments and opinions chase them away from their dreams. Overall, I hope to make an impact in the lives of others by being an advocate as well as a mentor for many in the future. I feel that I can fulfill my dream of helping and empowering others by being a doctor.

For a long time, I believed success was synonymous with a high-paying job or intellectual superiority. However, this year has taught me that success is not defined by finances or titles but by genuine happiness. Success means pursuing something I am passionate about, irrespective of the salary or being the smartest person in the room. It is about putting my utmost effort into everything and being content with where I am. Although I occasionally find myself measuring success through numbers or positions, my experiences have shown me that this conventional view is not what true success looks like and is one-sided. In the future, my main ambition is to attend medical school and become a trauma surgeon. After I become a surgeon, I would love to travel to Spanish-speaking countries to speak Spanish, and empower young Latinas like myself to be interested and empowered in the field of STEM. Recently, I had the opportunity to speak with many doctors, nurses, scrubs, and techs. Each of these individuals play a crucial role in their jobs and they all exuded a profound sense of satisfaction and fulfillment in their roles, and it showed me that their success came from the happiness they felt at their jobs. The more passionate and content they were with their jobs, the more successful they appeared. One nurse whom I spoke with in particular stood out to me. She has been a nurse for forty-five years and said she loved it. She said that helping people truly is the highlight of her job. This scholarship is a crucial step in my journey toward achieving my goals. It will provide me with the financial support needed to pursue a higher education without the burden of debt. It will allow me to focus on my studies and my future career as a doctor. I am passionate about learning and committed to making a difference in the lives of others through medicine. Thinking about becoming a doctor in the future excites me and makes me happy. I believe that my excitement will help me be successful in medical school and beyond. It will allow me to keep fighting for my goal. Education has consistently intrigued me. I have always been eager to take on new challenges and opportunities that come my way. I love learning new things and persevering through challenges. This last year I decided to take four AP classes as a sophomore, and now I am taking on another challenge of graduating a year early. This scholarship will ease a financial burden and empower me even more to focus on my goals. My understanding of success was one-sided, but today I see success in so many different ways. I believe success comes from happiness and hard work. My journey towards becoming a trauma surgeon and empowering young Latinas in STEM is driven by my new perspective on success. With the support of this scholarship, I am eager to pursue my dreams, make a meaningful impact in medicine, and contribute positively to other's lives.

I always aspired to be president of student council and when I achieved it my main goal was to make all students feel included and represented. During my speech to apply for student council the one thing I really emphasized was listening to the students. Currently I am able to support and listen to others through being a representative of my student body. As I said previously when I applied for student council I made sure the students knew that I would listen to their voices and that is what I have done. I have made sure to always take into account new ideas that other students would like to see in the school. I have been told many times that the bathrooms don't have tampons or they don't have toilet paper. I am currently working with the principal and other fellow student council presidents to implement tampons into the girls bathrooms. I plan to support others by listening to them and their needs. I plan to continue supporting and listening to others in my career as an emergency room doctor. I plan to travel to other Spanish speaking countries and encourage, listen, and support other young Latinas in the field of STEM. I want to be able to empower Latinas so that more Hispanic females feel empowered and supported going into the field of STEM. I used to live in Washington, and there I won a lottery to attend a Spanish emersion. This opportunity shaped my view on different cultures and gave me many opportunities to communicate, and build relationships with people I never would have had the chance to. I've never taken that for granted and I want to support and empowers others in all cultures. I one day strive to be a physician and be able to support people the best way I can. I truly believe having good support can change peoples lives.

I have been told no many times in my life, but that has not stop me from moving forward with my goals. When people tell me no I always find a way around. There have been many times when I have been told I shouldn't do something because I am a Latina female. There are many times in school when people tell me I can't do something. For example, I am graduating a year early and many of my peers tell me I can't or shouldn't do it. I have been told you can't take eight classes in a year. I did it. I did it to show other females that they could do anything. This is not the point of my story though. I mainly want to focus on the days when I wrestled. This is truly when I faced adversity in my life. Ever since I was young, I loved Mixed Martial arts. I started boxing when I was five and still pursue it. I started jiujitsu and Muay Thai at ten. When I learned there was a wrestling team at my school, I didn't think twice about joining. Wrestling practice started Monday, and I was ready to go. When Monday finally came, I walked into the gym to the smell of cleaning supplies and leather. I also saw a group of boys. They all stared at me. That's when the panic started to set in. I waited anxiously for one girl to show up; to my surprise, another girl never showed. During the first practice no one wanted to work with me, and it was genuinely awkward. The coaches were shocked I was even there and tried to make the boys feel comfortable. As practices continued, things started to improve. My team began to warm up to me and realized I was only there to wrestle. Then rumors began spreading. There were rumors that I was gay and that I was only doing wrestling to get with other people's girlfriends. During every meet, the coaches of the other teams would tell their competitors to go easy on me because I was a girl. Many boys would drop out of competitions because they did not want to face me. This was an issue I had to deal with repeatedly by being the only girl on the wrestling team. I overcame these challenges by never quitting, even when times got hard. I didn't stop when boys would drop out of tournaments, when rumors spread about me, or when I was told to drop out because I was a girl. One of the big reasons I kept going was to encourage other girls to try things they were afraid of. As a result, I got two girls on the wrestling team the following year. This story leads me to how I will use this in pursuing a medical career. My goal when I become a doctor is to go to a Spanish-speaking country and teach young Latina females about their opportunities in STEM and medicine. I want to empower the next generation of Latinas into the world of medicine so they are not afraid to pursue their dreams and face challenges head-on. Currently my parents cannot afford medical school and college together. This scholarship will greatly help to get my college degree so my parents and I don't have to worry about paying a lot of debt later in life and hopefully I can give my parents everything they have given me. This scholarship will help me achieve my goal of paying it back to my community and my family.

When I was younger, I remember eagerly switching on Disney Channel to watch my favorite TV show K.C. Undercover. I loved this series because Zendaya played a young female spy who effortlessly balanced her responsibilities between work and school. Even today, Zendaya continues to inspire me profoundly with her contributions to society and her work ethic. Zendaya has undeniably reshaped the landscape for young women, especially those of color. She is empowering and inspirational. Her ability to connect with her audience on a personal level is always effortless. She truly always cares about her community and her empowering influence. She is relatable and stands up for what she believes in. Zendaya always plays her roles flawlessly, which really emphasizes her great work ethic. Zendaya's influence extends beyond her acting career. She gives back to her community by serving underprivileged communities and advocating for younger generations. She serves as a role model for young people by demonstrating integrity, resilience and positive change. Her dedication to her work and community is admirable. In essence, Zendaya's truly has a gift and she uses it to for the best. She is able to entertain audiences with comedy, romance, satire, and so much more. Not only that, she also inspires many around the world and continues to give back to others. She inspires me as a young Latina female and reminds me that anything is possible.

Winston Churchill once said, " Don't take no for an answer, never submit to failure..." This saying has kept me going through all the many no's I have heard and all the failures I have faced. When people tell me no or tell me I can't, I always find a way around it. There have been many times when I have been told I should not do something because I am a Latina female. There are many times in school when people tell me I can't do something. For example, I am graduating a year early and many of my peers tell me I can't or shouldn't do it. I have been told you can't take eight classes in a year. I did it. I did it to show other females that they could do anything. This is not the point of my story though. I mainly want to focus on the days when I wrestled. Ever since I was young, I have loved Mixed Martial arts. I started boxing when I was five and still pursue it. I started jiujitsu and Muay Thai at ten. When I learned there was a wrestling team at my school, I didn't think twice about joining. Wrestling practice started Monday, and I was ready to go. When Monday finally came, I walked into the gym to the smell of cleaning supplies and leather. I also saw a group of boys. They all stared at me. That's when the panic started to set in. I waited anxiously for one girl to show up; to my surprise, another girl never showed. The first practice was scary, to say the least. No one wanted to work with me, and it was genuinely awkward. The coaches were shocked and tried to make the boys feel comfortable. As practices continued, things started to improve. They began to warm up to me and realized I was only there to wrestle. Then rumors began spreading. There were rumors that I was gay and that I was only doing wrestling to get with other people's girlfriends. During every meeting, the coaches of the other teams would tell their competitors to go easy on me because I was a girl. Many boys would drop out of competitions because they did not want to face me. This was an issue I had to deal with repeatedly, being the only girl on the wrestling team. I overcame these challenges by never quitting, even when times got hard. I didn't stop when boys would drop out of tournaments, when rumors spread about me, or when I was told to drop out because I was a girl. One of the big reasons I kept going was to encourage other girls to try things they were afraid of. As a result, I got two girls on the wrestling team the following year. This story leads me to how I will use this in pursuing a medical career. My goal when I become a doctor is to go to a Spanish-speaking country and teach young Latina females about their opportunities in STEM and medicine. I want to empower the next generation of Latinas into the world of medicine so they are not afraid to pursue their dreams and face challenges head-on.

As Conrad Hawkins wisely said, " If it were easy, everyone would be a doctor." I have chosen to go into the field of Medicine—specifically Emergency Room care. From age five, I would tell my dad about my dream of becoming a doctor. I knew I wanted to help people. This passion has only grown with time and experience, particularly through opportunities to work with those in need. While my primary goal is to help people, I am also deeply committed to empowering young Hispanic females by educating them about the field of medicine. I would love to go to other countries, communicate with communities in Spanish, and inspire young women to embrace the power of science and medicine. In today's society, there are few Latina doctors; I aim to change that by encouraging and educating the younger generation. I want to empower these young women to pursue careers in STEM and find their voices. To achieve this goal, I plan to major in biology or biochemistry and, attend medical school. My ultimate goal is to become either an ER doctor or an ER surgeon. I believe that through a career in medicine and science, I can inspire and empower others creating a future where more young women, especially Latinas are represented in STEM fields.

According to the Mayo Clinic, trichotillomania is a compulsive desire to pull out one's hair. Most people are unfamiliar with this disorder, but it is one I know far too well. My mother suffers from this rare disorder in which she has the desire to pull out her hair. She was not always like this. She developed TTM over time. It all started when she started college again. She started her classes and felt they were easy at first. Nothing short of an hour or two. As time progressed, her classes got harder, and she got stressed. This is when her hair-pulling started. I noticed she would pull out her hair and then fidget with it; I didn't think anything of it because she was only doing it occasionally. Then I noticed she started buying hair products. It was a black spray for your head. I asked her about it, and she told me she was developing a bald spot. I knew it wasn't happening occasionally. My parents are divorced, so I live with my dad half of the time, and I knew that when I was away, she was consistently doing it. She started to spray her bald spot with black hair spray and brush her hair back to hide the damage she had done. I would come home and find strands of hair all over the floor. They were near her desk, the dining room table, and the bathroom. I started doing research into what the leading cause of trichotillomania is, and I found it could be anything from age, stress, or family history. I knew hers was from stress. My mom never had this disorder until she started getting stressed from school. I would ask her why she does it, and she would tell me it's because it's "soothing". I found that most people say it brings a sense of relief, and some are unaware of their actions. My mom fell into the bucket of people who didn't realize they were doing it. I didn't understand the extremity of this disorder until her hair became frail and damaged. I advised my mom to get a counselor for this disorder because it was all caused due to her stress. She found a counselor who has been helping her as she is still working through it today. She does not do it as frequently, but it is still a part of our lives. My mom is still prone to pull it out when overwhelmed or stressed, even when it is only a small task. Certain things have worked to help her, like fidget toys that take her mind off of pulling her hair. My relationship with my mom grew deeper in this process because I was able to help her get through this obstacle. I always tried to be her cheerleader and still am, as she is still working on getting healed from this disorder. TTM has shaped my understanding of the world a little differently. No one in her life knows she does this besides me. This experience has made me register with the saying, "Don't judge a book by its cover". At work, she is very calm and super happy, but she is fighting this battle with TTM when she comes home every night. I feel I have grown through this experience and can empathize with people who suffer from stress or anxiety- related disorders.

Ever since I was young, I always thought a leader had to be someone with a big title like CEO or president. My dad always told me that good leaders are confident and concise. I never truly knew what that meant until I was able to take on a leadership position in school. When I was ten, I read three books in Jocko's "Way of the Warrior kid" series. These books taught me a lot about leadership, providing insight into qualities a good leader possesses and how to effectively use them. For example, a good leader empowers others, doesn't give up, and is and active part of their community. However, I believe you need to practice what you read to fully understand what makes a good leader. I became student council president Freshman year of high school. I had no Idea what awaited for me by taking on the role and the lessons I would learn. Though this experience, I discovered what makes me a leader. I believe I am a leader through the way I communicate with others. I always want to make people feel included and represented. My goal for the school was to be the voice for the students and make sure all of their needs and concerns were met. I have had the great opportunity to meet with my principle and other student council members on how to make the school better. I firmly believe that having good communication with my peers is what makes me a good leader. I always listen to people and help them whenever needed. Additionally, I believe my ability to work well with others contributes to my leadership. I always try to find a balance between working hard and having fun. During student council, we have to built floats for a parade. Although it got stressful at times, I was always able to communicate what needed to be done without being overbearing. I was able to create a good balance between work and fun. In summary, I believe I am a good leader because of my communication skills and my balance. I am able to work well with others and ensure everyone is taken care of. I want to make sure everyone is comfortable and content. I think a good leader is able to handle anything thrown their way. I feel that I am able to ask for help when needed and grow from others to be the best leader possible.

As I walked into the gym, all I could see were glaring looks. People started to whisper, and my hands began to shake. Doubt filled my head. I began to go into fight or flight. I wanted to run more than anything. Why did I do this? I kept asking myself. I am getting ahead of myself. Ever since I was young I have loved Mixed Martial arts. I started boxing when I was five and still pursue it. I started jiujitsu and Muay Thai at 10. Although I tried Karate and Krav Maga, I didn't enjoy them as much, so I stuck with boxing and jiujitsu. When I learned there was a wrestling team at my school, I didn't think twice about joining. I knew I had to try it. The first practice was at the end of school starting in September. I was excited and packed my boxing bag the night before with my clothes for Monday. When Monday finally arrived, I was ready to go. I eagerly got through and when the clock hit 3:00 pm I was prepared to wrestle. I changed and walked right into the gym. It smelled like cleaning supplies and leather. When I walked in all I saw was a group of boys. They all stared at me. That's when the panic started to set in. I waited anxiously for one girl to show up; to my surprise, another girl never showed. The first practice was scary, to say the least. No one wanted to work with me, and it was genuinely awkward. The coaches were shocked and tried to make the boys feel more comfortable. As practices continued, things started to improve. They started to warm up to me and realized I was only there to wrestle. Then the rumors began spreading. There were rumors that I was gay and that I was only doing wrestling to get with other people's girlfriends. During every meet, the coaches of the other teams would tell their competitors to go easy on me because I was a girl. Many boys would drop out of competitions because they did not want to face me in a competition. This was something I had to deal with repeatedly, being the only girl on the wrestling team. I overcame these challenges by never quitting, even when times got hard. When boys would drop out of tournaments, when rumors were spread about me, or when I was told I should drop out because I was a girl. One of the big reasons I kept going was to encourage other girls to try things they were afraid of. As a result, I was able to get two girls on the wrestling team the following year. If I could advise someone facing similar circumstances, I would tell them to never give up and never take no for an answer. There will be many times when you want to stop and accept defeat, but don't. Perseverance is the ultimate victory.

If I could have everyone read just one book, it would be Counting down the days with you. This book encompasses strength, diversity, and of course romance. The main character is the daughter of Indian immigrants who are very harsh about school and dating. This story is about how the main character finds someone to date in high school who is the opposite of what her parents would ever want for her. The book shows how she follows her dreams and pursues her passions. It allows many children of immigrants to relate to how their parenting is different than most. The author also empowers young females to stand up for what they want and to always have a voice in society. The main character is pushed hard into becoming a doctor, but that is not what she wants to do. Near the end, she finds her voice and follows her dream of becoming a baker. She is able to stand up for what she wants and what she believes is right. Of course, there is a romantic aspect. Many high schoolers from immigrant parents are not able to date until much later and if they are it is only for certain people. The protagonist is able to shine a light on breaking cultural norms, and representing a new generation. Everyone should read this book because there are empowering and engaging messages that the author leaves you with. It is a book that you will be thinking about and applying to your own life endeavors.

From the moment Jeremiah utters those famous words, "I’ll grab your hand, and we’ll dance away from everybody," it's hard not to fall head over heels for him. He's caring, charismatic, and witty basically every girls dream. I mean, who wouldn't want a guy like Jeremiah in their life? Jeremiah has a heart of gold. While Conrad might be all about himself, Jeremiah's shows us what it really means to care for someone. He's willing to put Belly's needs before his own, even if it means letting her go if that's what's best for her. While Conrad needs Belly all to himself. He is not willing to let her go even though he knows he needs to. He is overall a lot more selfish than Jeremiah and shows it all throughout the show. Jeremiah not only looks out for Belly but he looks out for everyone, especially his friends and family. His mom, for example. When she's sick with cancer, he is right there by her side, making sure she's she has someone and making sure she is okay at all times. That kind of compassion and devotion is hard to come by, especially in high school boys these days. And speaking of high school drama, let's talk about Conrad versus Jeremiah. Conrad might have his brooding, mysterious thing going on but he has nothing compare to Jeremiah's emotional maturity. He's like a ray of sunshine on a cloudy day. He's always got a smile on his face and a joke up his sleeve, ready to lift your spirits when you're feeling down. While Conrad is always moping and ruining everyone's day. He always ends up being the storm for Belly, and she always has to clean up his mess. One example is the time at the dance when Conrad bailed on Belly Guess who swooped in to save the day? You guessed it – Jeremiah. He didn't hesitate for a second to step up and be there for Belly when she needed him most. He has proven time and time again that he is the kind of guy that will always be there for her. That is definitely the type of guy you want in your corner when the going gets tough. Call me biased, but Jeremiah is the better pick in this situation. He's not just the better choice for Belly – he's the better choice, period. With his caring nature, unwavering support, and infectious positivity.

"With great power comes great responsibility"- Friendly Neighborhood Spider Man. These words are said through many generations, resonating with each portrayal of the iconic hero. Among the talented actors who have played Spider Man, Tom Holland stands out as my personal favorite. While I fondly remember watching Tobey Maguire's version with my dad for the first time, and delighting in Andrew Garfield's wit and charm, it's Holland's portrayal of the actor that captivated me. My journey with Holland's Spider-Man began sitting in the theater with my large tub of popcorn accompanied by my friends. All of us were speechless by the film's excellence. Zendaya's portrayal as a strong, intelligent female character added depth to the narrative, elevating the movie experience. It was nice to see the inclusion of such empowered female roles, and Zendaya's portrayal certainly stood out. Furthermore, the exploration of villains in the newer Spider-Man movies adds layers of complexity to the storyline. I like how the latest movie brings together all of the spider men, to display unity against the nasty villains. This movie concluded and brough together all of the movies on a satisfying note. Overall, Tom Holland's Spider-Man embodies the essence of a great superhero. He captivates the audience with his humor and charm. The dynamic characters, engaging narratives, and thrilling action sequences inspire and entertain, leaving a great impact on all viewers.

As the crisp autumn air fills my lungs, I'm instantly transported to a world of comfort and nostalgia. When I open the door to Starbucks, the unmistakable aroma of pumpkin wafts through the air, teasing my senses with promises of warmth and coziness. It's that time of year again – the season of Pumpkin Spice lattes, and oh, how they fill me with joy! There's something magical about sipping on a Pumpkin Spice latte that gives me a sense of joy like I am a kid again. It's more than just a beverage; it's a cherished tradition, that holds a special place in my heart. My birthday falls in September, and like clockwork, I eagerly anticipate my complimentary birthday treat – a Grande iced Pumpkin Spice latte, the essential definition of autumn. Now, I know what you're thinking – iced? Unconventional, perhaps, but to me, it's perfection. There no way to describe when the iced cold sweetened pumpkin hits my lips. Its like I am living in candy land. One particular birthday stands out vividly in my memory – the day I got my braces. As soon as those metal contraptions were off, my first order of business was indulging in a Pumpkin Spice latte with my mom. We sat in the car, savoring every sip, reminiscing on the flavors that never fail to bring us together. Speaking of my mom, she's the one who introduced me to this glory of a drink. I've learned the art of customization – extra whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon to make the drink even better. Together, we've forged a bond over our shared love for Pumpkin Spice lattes, even if it means splurging a little too often during the fall season. During fall break, our Pumpkin Spice escapades reach new heights. It's become a daily ritual to go on an adventure to Starbucks followed by an adventure to the nearest pumpkin patch. One particular outing stands out when we went to a pumpkin patch picked out pumpkins and sat there for hours talking. It was the beginning of a family tradition with my mom. For us, the Pumpkin Spice latte isn't just a drink; it is a cherished memory. It symbolizes the warmth of family bonds and the joy of shared experiences. As I look forward to future fall breaks, I can't wait to continue this tradition, knowing that with each sip, I'm transported back to a simpler time – a time filled with love, and laughter. And let's not forget about the smooth pumpkin muffin with cream cheese frosting – but that's a story for another day.

Imagine being in a hospital room, facing the dark reality of losing a limb and the shattered dreams of a promising athletic career. Unfortunately, this is a harsh reality for many individuals, as the loss of mobility not only affects their physical well-being but also their mental and emotional health. Amidst these challenges, a beacon of hope emerges. Something that intrigues me is the revolutionary advancement of 3D-printed prosthetics. This groundbreaking innovation has not only transformed the medical landscape but has also breathed new life into the aspirations of countless individuals. I have witnessed someone in my school who once relied on a wheelchair, now walking confidently through the halls of high school, thanks to a 3D-printed prosthetic. This ultimately is where my interest began. It greatly inspired me to see one of my peers being moved by this medical advancement. For me, this pivotal moment catalyzes my future aspirations in the medical field. The desire to alleviate suffering and empower individuals through innovation motivates me. I envision myself contributing to the realm of emergency medicine, where every second counts and the need for innovative solutions is paramount. One of the pressing challenges in the emergency room (ER) is the overwhelming influx of patients, often outnumbering the available medical staff. I am determined to address this issue by pioneering advancements that optimize patient care and streamline medical processes. My vision encompasses the development of cutting-edge technologies, such as automated diagnostic machines for non-critical cases and surgical assistance systems that augment the capabilities of healthcare professionals. I aim to bridge the gap between patient needs and medical resources. Imagine a future where doctors can devote more time and attention to critical cases, knowing that patients with less severe conditions are receiving prompt and precise care through automated systems. As a Latina woman pursuing a career in the medical and STEM fields, I am driven by a dual commitment – to advance healthcare innovation and to empower underrepresented communities. My journey is not only about personal fulfillment but also about breaking barriers and inspiring future generations of Latina women to pursue their dreams in these fields. Through diligent research, relentless dedication, and inclusivity, I aspire to make tangible contributions that resonate beyond borders and boundaries. Whether it's designing life-changing technologies or advocating for greater diversity in STEM, I am committed to fostering a more equitable and accessible future for all. My overall ambition is to create empowerment, and progress in the medical field. I believe that everyone deserves the highest standard of care, and I strive to leave a lasting impact on the world.

Buckle up, folks, because if you haven't dived into the whirlwind that is "Jane the Virgin," you're missing out on a rollercoaster ride of drama, family antics, action-packed twists, and love triangles juicier than ever. Picture this: you, a bucket of popcorn the size of a small child, and your feline companion cozied up for the binge-watch of a lifetime. This show isn't just your average Netflix binge; it's a full-blown telenovela extravaganza with a load of situational irony that'll have you laughing, and crying, all at once. At the heart of all the chaos lies our protagonist Jane, in a stroke of outrageous luck (or misfortune, depending on how you see it), finds herself artificially inseminated and pregnant faster than a cheetah. Here's the kicker: the baby daddy isn't just any guy off the street. Nope, he's none other than Jane's former crush, a blast from the past she never quite got over. And just when you thought things couldn't get any messier, Jane has a fiancé waiting for her. Talk about a love triangle with more twists than a pretzel. Although "Jane the Virgin" is full of love and laughter, it isn't just about love triangles and baby drama; oh no, it's a celebration of Latina excellence, showcasing a diverse cast of talented actresses who bring the heat to every scene. This show inspired me as a Latina because of all the strong women seen on the screen, and the way they take charge in their roles. From Gina Rodriguez's stellar performance as Jane to guest appearances by Latina legends like Gloria Estefan, Eva Longoria, and Charo, this show is a cultural fiesta that'll have you cheering "¡Viva la familia!" at the top of your lungs. And let's not forget about the friendships. From Jane's tight-knit bond with her sassy bestie to the quirky antics of her lovable abuela, this show is a love letter to the power of female camaraderie. Because let's face it, nothing brings people together quite like a shared love of telenovelas and a bottomless bowl of popcorn. So, grab your remote, snuggle up with your furry friend, and prepare yourself for a wild ride through the trials and tribulations of love, family, and the occasional case of mistaken insemination. "Jane the Virgin" isn't just a TV show; it's a hilarious, heartwarming, and downright addictive that'll leave you craving more with every episode. Good thing there are 100 episodes. Trust me, you won't want to miss this caliente comedy-drama.