Healthcare is one of the most essential services a community can provide, and I believe that rural areas like Flandreau and Moody County deserve dedicated professionals who understand their unique needs. Currently, there have been ongoing debates about our county’s ambulance service and which government entity is responsible for covering the costs. For the past few years, I’ve followed this issue closely, discussing it with local leaders to share my thoughts on why emergency services are so crucial to our community. Having the ability to voice my opinion in such an open and casual manner is one of the aspects of living in a small town that I find so appealing. It gives me a sense of connection and accountability to the well-being of my neighbors. Throughout my life, I’ve always felt a strong desire to contribute to the health and well-being of those around me. I envision a future where I can work closely with local families, treating not just illnesses but also promoting overall well-being and preventive care. One of the most impactful experiences in shaping my vision came from caring for my grandmother, who lived with us after my grandfather passed away. I witnessed how important preventative care could be. She struggled with uncontrolled diabetes, and her health deteriorated over time, partly due to the emotional toll of grief, the challenges of moving into our home, and sometimes simply not taking her medication. I often saw my parents work tirelessly to care for her, but it was frustrating when she wouldn't take her medicine. Through this, I realized that to be an effective healthcare provider, you must do more than treat physical symptoms. You must build trust and relationships with patients. Understanding their challenges, their lives, and their motivations is just as important as diagnosing their conditions. As I pursue my career in medicine, I hope to continue my passion for leadership and community service by mentoring students interested in healthcare careers and advocating for public health initiatives. I am particularly passionate about supporting local organizations that work to improve quality of life and promote preventive care in rural areas like Flandreau. For this reason, my goal is to attend South Dakota State University to major in Human Biology. Afterward, I plan to attend the University of South Dakota School of Medicine, where I hope to specialize in general medicine or pediatrics. Small towns often face shortages of medical professionals, and this creates barriers to accessing quality healthcare. I want to help change that by returning to Flandreau as a physician, ensuring that the people who have supported me throughout my life receive the care they deserve. By doing so, I hope to make a meaningful impact on the health of my community and create lasting change that will benefit future generations. Thank you for your consideration.