In my family, resilience was never something spoken about in grand speeches; it was measured in early morning alarms, extra shifts, and a quiet refusal to give up. I am a proud second generation college student of Caribbean descent, shaped by the rich heritages of my mother, who immigrated from Bermuda, and my late father, who was of Bahamian descent. Growing up in a working class household, I watched my mother pour every ounce of her energy into ensuring I had access to educational opportunities that had once been out of reach for our family. She managed our home without a financial safety net, teaching me through her daily actions that strength is built through perseverance and shown through sacrifice. Like Megan Mills, who carried the hopes of her family from Jamaica to Florida, my deepest motivation is to honor my parents' sacrifices and build a future where I can give back to those who gave up so much for me. That resilience became my anchor when COVID-19 took my father. Watching the virus tear through his lungs and heart—and seeing how fast a life can be lost—left our home completely quiet and our future uncertain. In the difficult months that followed, my mother carried the weight of our household alone, while I was left grappling with how quickly a body can fail when warning signs go unnoticed. That tragedy ended my childhood curiosity about science and turned it into an urgent, lifelong calling: I decided to enter medicine to give other families the early warning mine never received. Living as a young Black woman with high-functioning autism demanded another layer of inner strength. Navigating communication barriers, sensory overload, and social isolation in my early school years made me question whether I belonged in rigorous spaces. But through faith and discipline, I learned to see my neurodivergence as my greatest clinical strength. It gives me sharp focus, deep attention to detail, and instinctive empathy for patients who feel overlooked, rushed, or unheard in healthcare settings. I refused to let loss, disability, or financial hardship stall my ambitions. In high school, I earned both my Certified Nursing Assistant and EKG Technician certifications, becoming one of only four students in my graduating class to complete both credentials. Today, I am majoring in Cardiopulmonary Science at Florida A&M University on the Pre-PA track, preparing to become a surgical Physician Assistant specializing in cardiopulmonary care. Through my career, I plan to bridge surgical medicine with frontline community prevention. As a Student Health Services intern at FAMU, I provide clinical triage and vitals monitoring in our campus medical tent, while also volunteering with Who We Play For to screen youth for hidden cardiac conditions. Long-term, my vision is to launch a mobile cardiopulmonary clinic that delivers free EKGs, blood pressure monitoring, and health education directly into underserved immigrant and minority neighborhoods where healthcare access is limited. Megan Mills’ legacy of grit, deep love for her family, and devotion to the Physician Assistant profession reflects the exact values that guide my life. Carrying my Bermudian and Bahamian heritage forward, I am determined to step into healthcare as the advocate my family needed, stand up for vulnerable patients, and prove that resilience can transform deep grief into a lifetime of healing.

I spent much of my early school years just trying to survive, enduring bullying, being misunderstood, and hiding who I really was just to fit in. For years, I believed I wasn’t smart enough. Everything changed in high school when I was diagnosed with autism. That moment helped me see myself not as broken, but as different and capable. Learning to self-advocate and embracing my differences transformed my perspective on my future. Now, I want to use that same empathy and resilience to serve others through healthcare. My journey has shaped my goal of becoming a surgical Physician Assistant who provides compassionate care to patients who often feel unseen or misunderstood. Being autistic hasn’t been easy. I’ve had to navigate classrooms, hospitals, and social spaces where I didn’t always feel accepted. Yet those challenges taught me resilience and gave me a deep understanding of what it feels like to be invisible. My faith became a constant source of strength, teaching me to see purpose in pain and to serve with compassion. Through these experiences, I discovered that understanding others begins with accepting yourself, and that lesson guides everything I do. My passion for helping others grew through service. Earning my CNA and EKG certifications gave me hands-on experience in hospitals and nursing homes, where I learned that healing begins with listening. Whether helping a nervous patient walk at their own pace or explaining a procedure in calm, detailed terms, I saw how empathy and communication can ease fear. I also took initiative in my community by organizing blood drives that filled every donor slot and distributing hygiene kits and clothing through my church. These moments showed me that leadership isn’t about titles or attention; it’s about taking action and inspiring others to care. I’m pursuing a Health Sciences degree at Florida A&M University, where I’m building the foundation for my future as a surgical Physician Assistant. My coursework is strengthening my understanding of anatomy, patient care, and health disparities, while volunteer work deepens my commitment to serving others. I plan to expand my impact through establishing mobile clinics that bring healthcare directly to people who need it most, such as neurodivergent individuals, disabled and elderly patients, and those with limited access to care. These clinics will combine medical skill with advocacy, ensuring that every patient feels respected, informed, and supported. A scholarship would relieve the financial pressure on my single-parent household and allow me to focus fully on my studies, service, and future projects like the mobile clinics. But more importantly, it would invest in someone determined to give back. What makes me different isn’t just my academic ability, but it’s my experience as an autistic Black woman who turned challenges into strengths. With this education, I will become a healthcare professional who ensures every patient feels seen, heard, and valued. My journey began with learning to accept myself. It continues with a commitment to help others find that same confidence and care. One day, when I walk into a patient’s room, I hope they feel what I once felt when someone finally believed in me—understood, supported, and capable.

From a young age, I knew I wanted to dedicate my life to helping others, but it wasn’t until high school that I truly discovered where that passion would take me. My decision to pursue a career in healthcare stems from a combination of personal experiences, family influence, and my desire to make a positive impact in the lives of others. Volunteering at hospitals like HCA and St. Vincent’s gave me a first-hand view of the difference healthcare providers make. Whether I was assisting patients or observing medical staff, I saw the comfort, hope, and healing that compassionate care could bring. These moments showed me that healthcare is not just about treating an illness, it’s about caring for the whole person. That understanding sparked my desire to join the medical field and confirmed that this was where I was meant to be. My family’s story also played a major role. My grandmother, who immigrated from Bermuda and built a life through sacrifice and resilience, taught me the importance of perseverance and service. Her journey inspired me to pursue a path that combines education with purpose. My mother, a single parent who worked hard to provide, showed me the value of determination and empathy. Both of their examples motivated me to pursue a career where I could use my skills to uplift others while honoring the sacrifices they made for me. To prepare myself, I’ve worked hard in school while also pursuing hands-on training. I completed certifications in CNA and EKG, which not only gave me technical skills but also allowed me to build confidence in patient care. I learned how to interact with patients respectfully, ease their anxieties, and provide support in vulnerable moments. These experiences confirmed that I thrive in healthcare environments and enjoy being part of a team that works to save lives. Looking ahead, my career goal is to become a cardiothoracic surgical physician assistant. The heart fascinates me because it is the center of life, and cardiothoracic surgery represents a field where precision, teamwork, and critical care come together to transform outcomes. As a physician assistant, I want to be on the front lines of surgery, assisting in procedures that restore and extend life, while also being a bridge of communication between patients, families, and physicians. But my vision goes beyond the operating room. I want to focus on serving underrepresented communities, particularly minorities and women, who often experience disparities in healthcare access and treatment. Too many people feel unseen or unheard in medical settings, and I want to be an advocate who listens and ensures they receive the best possible care. My future is not just about advancing in medicine but also about inspiring others to believe that they, too, deserve quality healthcare and compassion. Ultimately, I chose healthcare because it gives me the chance to combine science, service, and purpose. It challenges me to keep learning while constantly giving back. My grandmother’s sacrifices, my mother’s resilience, and my own experiences in patient care have all guided me to this path. In the future, I see myself not only assisting in life-saving surgeries but also using my voice and my skills to make healthcare more equitable and compassionate for all.

Growing up in a single parent household has shaped me into the lighthearted, funny, yet compassionate person I am today. My mom is the strongest woman I know, my real life superhero without the cape. She’s worked hard to provide for me, even when things weren’t easy. Watching her do so much with so little made me very aware of our finances. She taught me to be grateful for what I have and to never take anything for granted. I remember one time in middle school when a group of my friends planned a trip to the mall. I asked my mom if she could give me some money to go, and she gently said, “I don’t have any to spare right now but I’ll give you some when I get paid.” It wasn’t a dramatic moment but it stuck with me. I could see the stress behind her smile and the weight she carried trying to make one income stretch. I felt bad for even asking, not because she made me feel guilty, but because I knew how hard she worked. That moment inspired me to get my own job, not just for spending money, but to help take even a little pressure off her and so I could slowly set some aside for college. That mindset stuck with me, and now as I prepare for college, it’s clear that my mom won’t be able to contribute much financially toward my education. My dream of going to a university feels very uncertain without scholarships or other financial assistance, but I’m not giving up. I’ve worked hard to prepare myself academically, professionally, and personally for this next step. One of my proudest accomplishments is becoming both a Certified Nursing Assistant and an EKG Technician at just 17 years old. While I sometimes felt like I was missing out on typical "high school experiences" because I was learning how to take vitals and perform EKGs, I realized it was more than worth it. It wasn’t easy balancing dual enrollment, CNA/EKG training, managing school sports teams, working a part time job, and still earning a place on the honor roll but I did it with a smile and a whole lot of prayer. Volunteering has also played a huge part in my journey. I’ve had the opportunity to serve at HCA and St. Vincent’s Hospital, assisting staff and comforting patients. I’ve also helped at Elevate Life Church’s Summer Blast program, working with kids and spreading joy (and snacks). These experiences taught me how to connect with people from all walks of life, listen with empathy, and serve with love. It’s in these moments that I truly see the heart of healthcare. Through these experiences, I gained more than just certifications I found my purpose. I want to become a physician assistant and serve communities like my own, especially minorities and women who don’t always have access to quality care. Every patient I meet teaches me something new, and each challenge reminds me of Psalms 46:5: "God is within her, she will not fall." That verse has carried me through moments when I felt overwhelmed, unequipped, or just plain exhausted. It reminds me that I’m never alone in this journey. I’ve learned that compassion isn’t just a personality trait, it’s a calling. Whether I’m comforting a patient, volunteering with children, or making my friends laugh during tough days, I bring my full heart into everything I do. And while my story starts in a single parent home with limited means, I know it’s headed somewhere powerful because I’ve got determination and faith.

For a young Caribbean African American woman, success is more than personal achievements, financial stability, or career recognition. True success means making a lasting difference in the lives of others, honoring the sacrifices of my family, and living out my faith through services like medical missionary work. My ultimate goal is to become a cardiothoracic surgical physician assistant, providing high quality healthcare to minorities and women who often face disparities in medical treatment. I want to be a healthcare provider who not only treats patients physically but also uplifts them emotionally and spiritually. Success is using my knowledge and skills to bring healing and encouragement to those in need. Coming from a hardworking Caribbean background, I have witnessed what true sacrifice looks like. My mother who is a single mom has worked tirelessly to provide for me despite financial challenges. My grandmother left her home in Bermuda to seek better opportunities, laying the foundation for our family’s future. I know the sacrifices my family has made and everything I do is to make them proud. I want them to see that their hard work was not in vain. I want to break generational barriers and give back to my family and community in meaningful ways. Faith plays a crucial role in my vision of success. My favorite scripture proverbs 3:5-6 states, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” This verse reminds me that my journey is not just about my efforts but about trusting God’s plan for my life. There have been times when I doubted myself, moments when bullying made me feel unworthy, or when financial struggles made my future seem uncertain. There have also been times in school when I felt I wasn't smart enough to go into healthcare. However, through prayer and unwavering faith, I have continued to push forward, knowing that God has a purpose for me and there is a reason I have a passion for pursuing healthcare. One of the biggest obstacles I have faced is bullying, both in-person and online. It was a painful experience that tested my confidence and self worth. At times, I felt isolated, but instead of allowing it to define me, I turned to my faith. I sought out positive environments, surrounded myself with supportive people, and focused on my academics. Overcoming bullying taught me the importance of self love and being strong in yourself. Now, I use my experiences to uplift and encourage others who may feel unheard or defeated. This scholarship is more than just financial assistance. It is an opportunity to pursue my dreams without being weighed down by financial burdens. It will allow me to focus on my studies, gain clinical experience, and prepare for PA school so that I can fulfill my purpose. With this support, I will continue to excel academically, strengthen my skills, and work toward becoming a healthcare provider who serves with excellence and faith. Success is not just about what I accomplish for myself, but how I use my blessings to impact others. With this scholarship I will be one step closer to my goals, honoring my family’s sacrifices, living out my faith, and making a meaningful difference in healthcare and my community.

Growing up in a single-parent household has been one of the biggest influences on my life. My mom has always been my role model—watching her work tirelessly to provide for me, sacrificing her own needs so I could have opportunities, has shaped how I view hard work, resilience, and success. I’ve seen firsthand what it means to struggle, but I’ve also seen what it means to push through, to never give up, and to keep going even when the odds are stacked against you. Because of her, I don’t take anything for granted and refuse to let challenges stop me from achieving my goals. Being raised by a single mom has also made me incredibly independent and resourceful. I’ve learned how to juggle responsibilities—school, volunteering, work, clubs, and managing my track and boys' basketball team—because I know my future depends on it. I don’t have a financial safety net, so I push myself to take every opportunity seriously. My mom and grandma have always told me that education is very important. My grandma had to leave my mom behind in Berumda ( where we are from ) to get an education in America, so I have seen first hand how my family has made sacrifices. I work hard in school, not just for myself but for my family and, most importantly, my mom—for everything she’s sacrificed to get me here. Although I have a clear idea of the career path I want to pursue, even if that were to change, my ultimate goal will always stay the same: I want to help people. My passion for giving back comes from my own experiences of struggle and perseverance. I know what it feels like to not have all the resources or support in the world, so I want to be that person for someone else. Whether it’s through healthcare, mentorship, or community service, I want to uplift others and make a real impact. One day, I see myself in a position where I can provide care and support to those who need it most. Whether I’m working in a hospital or a clinic or leading initiatives in underserved communities, I know that my purpose will be to serve others. I want to be a role model for young girls who come from situations like mine, showing them that success is possible no matter where you start. No matter what career I enter, my heart will always be in helping, healing, and making a difference in people’s lives. That is what truly drives me, and that is the future I am working so hard to create.

Ever since I was little, I’ve been fascinated by the healthcare field— I have always admired how healthcare professionals help heal us and keep us alive without us even thinking about it. But what pushed me toward my decision of being a surgeon was a moment I’ll never forget. A couple of years ago, my mom had to go to the hospital to get tumors removed. I was in awe of the surgeons and nurses who took care of her. They knew exactly what to do, and because of them, my mom was okay. That was the first time I thought, I want to do that. I want to help people like they do. At first, I just knew I wanted to be in the medical field, but I wasn’t sure exactly where I fit in and what exactly I wanted to do. Then, I started my EKG (Electrocardiogram) class, and everything just clicked. Learning about how the heart works, how electrical signals keep it beating, how even the smallest problem can throw everything off—it was fascinating. I realized that the heart isn’t just another organ; it’s the organ that keeps everything going. And just like that, I knew surgery—specifically cardiothoracic surgery—was where I belonged. Now, every step I take—whether it’s my CNA/EKG class, volunteering at hospitals and nursing homes, or even managing my school’s sports teams—feels like a step closer to that goal. One day, I’ll be the one in the OR making sure someone else’s mom gets to go home safely.

From a young age, I have always been passionate about helping others, which is why I am dedicated to pursuing a career in the medical field. My goal is to become a cardiothoracic surgical physician assistant, focusing on providing care for minorities and women who often face disparities in healthcare. I know this journey will require years of dedication, education, and financial support, but I am determined to overcome any obstacles in my path. One of my biggest inspirations for giving back comes from my community involvement. I volunteer at HCA and St. Vincent’s Hospital, where I gain firsthand experience in a healthcare setting and interact with patients. Seeing the impact that compassionate care has on people only strengthens my commitment to the medical field. Additionally, I volunteer at Elevate Life Church’s Summer Blast, where I work with kids to create a fun, safe, and positive environment. These experiences have shaped my love for service and solidified my desire to make a difference in people’s lives. Unfortunately, funding my education will be a significant challenge. My mom is a single parent, and while she works hard, she is unable to provide much financial support for my college and medical school expenses. That’s why I am dedicated to applying for scholarships, working, and seeking any financial assistance available. I refuse to let money be the reason I can’t achieve my dreams, but I also know I can’t do it alone. Beyond my passion for medicine, I am also deeply committed to keeping children and youth safe, both in person and online. Having experienced both in-person and cyberbullying, I know firsthand how damaging it can be. I have witnessed how bullying affects self-esteem, mental health, and even academic performance. Because of this, I make it a priority to speak out against bullying and create safe spaces where kids feel valued and protected. Whether it’s mentoring younger students at church, promoting kindness, or educating others on the dangers of cyberbullying, I strive to be part of the solution. In my community, I actively promote anti-bullying initiatives by encouraging open conversations and standing up for those who may feel unheard. When working with kids at Elevate Life Church, I ensure that every child feels included and safe, reinforcing positive behavior and kindness. I believe that resilience, compassion, and determination define who I am. I have big dreams, and while the road ahead will be challenging, I am ready to face it head-on. With the right support, I know I can achieve my goal of working in the medical field, giving back to my community, and advocating for those who need a voice.

Leah O'Brien Lpstaker9@gmail.com 904-735-2557 Joe Gilroy Scholarship Essay 2-19-2025 My ultimate goal is to become a cardiothoracic surgical physician assistant (PA) and serve minorities and women in the healthcare system. This career path requires strategic planning, financial preparation, and hands-on clinical experience, all of which I am determined to pursue with dedication and resilience. I plan to major in Biology during my undergraduate studies to achieve my goal. This field will provide the necessary prerequisites for PA school, including courses such as anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and biochemistry. Meeting regularly with academic advisors, taking rigorous science courses, and seeking research opportunities will ensure I stay on track. My timeline includes earning a Bachelor’s degree within four years, preparing for the PA-CAT or GRE during my junior and senior years, and applying to accredited PA programs with strong surgical specializations upon graduation. Gaining direct patient care experience is crucial for PA school applications. During college, I plan to work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) and EKG technician to accumulate the required patient care hours while earning an income. I have taken CNA and EKG classes during high school so that I can work these jobs. This experience will help me develop essential medical skills and expose me to the realities of working in the hospital. My timeline includes working part-time as a CNA or EKG technician during college or for summer break and shadowing PAs in surgical fields by my senior year of college. Financial preparation is a critical aspect of my plan. I’m being raised by a single mom so I aim to minimize student debt by utilizing multiple funding sources. I will apply for merit-based and need-based scholarships throughout college, seek out STEM and healthcare scholarships, and utilize grants and financial aid programs. Additionally, working part-time as a CNA or EKG technician and exploring work-study programs will provide a steady income. I am also considering military options, such as the Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP), enlisting, and loan repayment programs for healthcare professionals to fund my PA education. Budget considerations are essential to my success. Undergraduate tuition costs can range from $20,000 to $50,000, which I plan to cover through scholarships, grants, and part-time work. PA school tuition can range from $80,000 to $150,000, and I plan to cover this through scholarships, military funding, and loan repayment programs. Additional expenses like application fees and living costs will be managed through savings, ROTC scholarships, and financial aid. My drive to succeed comes from my hardworking family. My grandmother made a tremendous sacrifice by leaving my mother behind in Bermuda to come to America in search of education and opportunities to provide for her family. Her determination inspires me to work hard, stay focused, and give back to my community. I want to honor her sacrifices by excelling in my studies and becoming a PA who advocates for underrepresented communities. In conclusion, my path to becoming a cardiothoracic surgical PA requires dedication, financial planning, and strategic decision-making. Through hard work, clinical experience, and financial responsibility, I am confident in my ability to achieve my goals. With my family’s sacrifices in mind, I am determined to create a future where I serve my community and help those in need.

Leah O’Brien Lpstaker9@gmail.com 904-735-2557 2-19-2025 Arthur and Elana Panos Scholarship Faith has been the foundation of my life, guiding me through challenges and shaping my aspirations. My belief in God has given me strength and purpose, especially during difficult times. As I pursue a career in the medical field, I know my faith will continue to guide and support me. My family has faced many hardships, but God has been our rock. My grandmother sacrificed everything, leaving her home and my mom behind in Bermuda to provide a better future. My single mom worked tirelessly to ensure I had opportunities she never had. Despite financial struggles, prayer, and faith carried us through. I've witnessed God's provision—doors opening when we least expected, kind people stepping in to help, and opportunities arising at just the right time. These experiences have taught me that even in dark moments, God is always present, working things out for our good. My faith has not only helped me through personal struggles but has also inspired my career path. I am taking CNA and EKG certification classes, gaining valuable experience as I work toward my dream of becoming a cardiothoracic surgeon. Medicine is a challenging field, but my faith will sustain me. The ability to save lives and bring hope to patients aligns with my belief in serving others. I see medicine as a calling, and I trust that God will give me the wisdom, patience, and compassion to excel. Faith teaches me perseverance. There will be times when I feel overwhelmed, exhausted, or discouraged. However, I know that God has placed this calling in my heart for a reason. He has given me the passion to help others and the determination to overcome challenges. Every obstacle I face is an opportunity for growth, and with prayer, I will continue moving forward. My faith has also led me to serve in my church community. I've worked in the church café, assisted in the children's ministry, and supported young kids in their faith. As a student leader in youth ministry, I’ve guided and mentored my peers. I also serve by giving to the less fortunate and offering prayer every first Saturday with my church. These experiences have strengthened my leadership skills, deepened my empathy, and reinforced my belief in service. The fulfillment I find in giving back mirrors the fulfillment I know I’ll experience as a healthcare professional. As I continue my journey, I know challenges will come, but my faith reminds me that I am never alone. I will rely on prayer during tough times, seek guidance from God in my decisions, and use my platform to uplift and inspire others. My dream is not only to heal people physically but also to offer them comfort and encouragement, reminding them that they are never without hope. Faith has shaped my past, strengthened my present, and will continue to guide my future. I am grateful for every obstacle that has brought me closer to God and for the purpose He has placed in my heart. No matter what comes my way, I trust that with God, all things are possible. My faith will be the foundation that sustains me in my career, helping me become a compassionate and skilled cardiothoracic surgeon.

Ever since I was young, I had a desire to be a healthcare professional because I have always had a passion for helping people. I grew up always wanting to care for my dolls and watching TV shows such as Grey's Anatomy, Chicago Med, and Private Practice, which inspired me to become a cardiothoracic surgeon. As I grew older the desire remained with me and I became very observant whenever I was around doctors. Just recently, my mother had to undergo invasive surgery and I watched firsthand the pre-op, and post-op procedures and how the doctors interacted with her. I noticed how attentive and kind they were to her and always tried to make her as comfortable as possible. Watching those interactions further propelled my desire to pursue healthcare so I could help and treat others the same way. To pursue my dream, I will have to attend at least 15 years of college, medical school, and residency. I realize that it will take a lot of hard work and dedication, but in the end it will all be worthwhile. Minorities are the number one demographic to suffer from heart disease, heart attacks, and various cancers. There are very few minorities in this field so by understanding the challenges of minorities I can best become an advocate for my patients and use my influence to educate my patients on heart disease prevention. My family is my main inspiration for wanting to pursue my education at a college level. My grandmother is an immigrant from the Caribbean and came to the USA to go to school to become a teacher. She worked hard and made many sacrifices to complete her education. While in college in the USA, she had to leave my mother behind with my great-grandmother so she could focus on completing her education as a teacher. My father, on the other hand, is also from the Caribbean but did not get an education and did not have many options for work. He must work 24/7 with barely any time off so he encourages me to get an education so that I can have more opportunities and choices for work. My mom is a single mom who works hard daily to provide for me and teaches me the importance of education. It is because of my family that I am determined to attend college and attend medical school. Aside from the medical aspect of my wanting to attend college, I am driven to pursue this level of education because I have a desire for personal and intellectual growth. I believe education is the key to unlocking many opportunities and relationships later down the lifeline. I am looking forward to moving into a new environment with people of different backgrounds, as well as just exploring college and what it has to offer like developing new skills, exploring new and diverse subjects, and learning valuable lessons and skills. I believe these things will empower me along my journey of turning my dream into reality with the help of higher education.