I’m very proud to say that I am a first-generation Latin American student. I, Alissa Gil, am a dedicated health science enthusiast, seeking to serve as a future medical professional and to make a positive impact on the lives of others. Since early on in my youth, I developed an inherent fascination with the biological systems of the human body and the mind. Having made it into Sacramento State University for Health Science was both a major relief and a dream-come-true. Having overcome various economic and societal challenges and having dealt with sexism and discouragement as a first-generation Hispanic woman, my only option was to prove to myself and everyone around me that I could pull through and make a large success for myself. I may be interested in healthcare in general, but my niche is psychology and neuroscience. My favorite experience so far where I got to expand my passion when I interpreted many MRI scans of survivors with strokes, during my neuroscience internship at UCSF; I even gave an ultrasound and monitored the human organs and watched a heartbeat inside of a man. Though I am still figuring out my career path, the purpose towards which I want my work to contribute is clear: increasing wellness in the world. My current research in neuropsychology, or a possible future career in psychology, psychiatry or another medical field, will allow me to make a concrete contribution to the worlds underserved communities. The sense of responsibility that comes with being a first-generation student, facing all these similar challenges, somehow makes it easier to precede them. I am very dedicated to breaking stereotypes and standing up for diversity and inclusivity at both work and education. One day, I dream of using my experiences to advocate for better access to healthcare and mental care resources for all. By giving my voice to those who are underprivileged and often underserved and by addressing the underlying illnesses developed at the intersections of inequality, I hope to create global changes in mental-health accessibility. In conclusion, growing up as a first-generation Latin American student has defined my dreams by making me resilient and determined to create a more inclusive world where everyone has a chance to thrive. I am prepared to accommodate to the world ahead and can continue to hope and try to do what I can to improve it with determination, hard work and empathy.