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MacKenzie Cunningham

665

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Finalist

Bio

I am hardworking, dedicated, and driven by a relentless pursuit of excellence in all that I do. With a natural inclination towards leadership, I thrive in guiding and inspiring others to reach their fullest potential. Whether faced with adversity or opportunity, I approach each challenge with unwavering determination and a steadfast resolve to overcome any obstacle in my path. Ready to tackle whatever challenges come my way, I embrace each new endeavor with enthusiasm, resilience, and a commitment to success.

Education

Jackson College

Associate's degree program
2023 - 2026
  • Majors:
    • Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Bachelor's degree program

  • Graduate schools of interest:

  • Transfer schools of interest:

  • Majors of interest:

    • Medicine
  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Hospital & Health Care

    • Dream career goals:

    • Tech Assistant

      University of Michigan Health - Sparrow
      2019 – Present5 years

    Sports

    Golf

    Varsity
    2016 – 20182 years

    Soccer

    Varsity
    2014 – 20162 years

    Volleyball

    Varsity
    2014 – 20184 years

    Basketball

    Varsity
    2014 – 20184 years

    Arts

    • Sonyas Dance Company

      Dance
      2004 – 2014

    Public services

    • Volunteering

      Habitat For Humanities — Volunteer coordinator
      2018 – 2018

    Future Interests

    Volunteering

    Philanthropy

    Eleanor Anderson-Miles Foundation Scholarship
    One of the most trying periods of my life occurred during my final year of high school when I encountered a series of personal and academic obstacles that tested my resilience and resolve. Amidst the demands of coursework, extracurricular activities, and the looming specter of college applications, I found myself grappling with overwhelming stress and anxiety. Additionally, I faced family issues that compounded my challenges, leaving me feeling adrift and uncertain about the future. In the midst of these adversities, I realized that I couldn't navigate through them alone and reached out for support from trusted friends, family members, and school counselors. Sharing my struggles was a daunting yet liberating experience, as I discovered the strength that comes from vulnerability and the power of seeking help when needed. With the guidance of supportive mentors and the encouragement of loved ones, I embarked on a journey of self-discovery and resilience-building. Through therapy, mindfulness practices, and self-reflection, I learned to cultivate resilience in the face of adversity, embracing setbacks as opportunities for growth and personal development. Despite the challenges I encountered, I refused to let adversity define me or derail my aspirations. With unwavering determination and a renewed sense of purpose, I channeled my energy into my studies, extracurricular pursuits, and personal growth. Though the road ahead was uncertain, I clung to the belief that every obstacle was a stepping stone on the path to success. As I emerged from this period of adversity, I found myself transformed—more resilient, empathetic, and self-aware than ever before. The challenges I faced had tested my limits and pushed me to grow in ways I never imagined possible. Armed with newfound strength and clarity, I approached life with renewed optimism and a deep appreciation for the importance of resilience in overcoming obstacles. Looking back, I am grateful for the lessons I learned during that difficult time, as they have shaped me into the person I am today. Through perseverance, courage, and the unwavering support of others, I discovered that even in the darkest of moments, there is always hope and the potential for a brighter tomorrow. My journey through adversity in high school taught me that resilience is not merely about bouncing back from setbacks but about embracing challenges as opportunities for growth and embracing the journey with courage and determination. Overall, this experience has instilled in me a profound sense of resilience and determination, shaping the way I approach challenges and setbacks in all aspects of my life. It has taught me the importance of seeking support when needed, cultivating self-awareness, and maintaining a positive outlook even in the face of adversity. As I move forward, I carry these lessons with me, knowing that they have equipped me with the strength and resilience to overcome whatever obstacles may come my way.
    Public Service Scholarship
    Ambition, drive, and passion are the guiding forces that have propelled me towards a career in public service, igniting within me a fervent desire to make a meaningful impact on the world around me. From an early age, I have been driven by a deep-seated belief in the power of collective action and the potential for positive change through service to others. Inspired by the stories of trailblazers and changemakers who have dedicated their lives to the pursuit of social justice and equality, I am fueled by a relentless drive to follow in their footsteps and leave a lasting legacy of progress and empowerment. My journey towards public service has been shaped by a myriad of experiences and influences, each contributing to the evolution of my passion and purpose. Whether volunteering in my local community, advocating for causes close to my heart, or pursuing opportunities for civic engagement, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative impact that individuals can have when they commit themselves wholeheartedly to the betterment of society. It is this sense of purpose and possibility that has inspired me to channel my ambition and drive towards a career path dedicated to serving the greater good. Through my education, I aspire to equip myself with the knowledge, skills, and resources necessary to effect meaningful change in my community and beyond. Armed with a deep understanding of social issues, policy frameworks, and effective governance practices, I aim to leverage my education as a catalyst for positive transformation, tackling pressing challenges with empathy, innovation, and resolve. Whether working to address disparities in healthcare access, advocating for environmental sustainability, or championing initiatives to promote educational equity, I see my education as a powerful tool for advancing the common good and fostering a more just and equitable society. Central to my vision for impact is a commitment to collaboration and inclusivity, recognizing that the most pressing issues facing our world today require collective action and diverse perspectives to solve. By fostering partnerships across sectors, bridging divides, and amplifying the voices of marginalized communities, I hope to cultivate a culture of cooperation and mutual respect that empowers individuals to come together in pursuit of shared goals. Through my work in public service, I aim to create spaces for dialogue, collaboration, and collective problem-solving, where every voice is heard, valued, and respected. Moreover, I believe that education has the power to serve as a catalyst for social mobility and economic empowerment, unlocking doors of opportunity for individuals and communities to thrive. As such, I am passionate about expanding access to quality education for all, dismantling barriers to entry, and ensuring that every child has the chance to fulfill their potential and pursue their dreams. By investing in education as a fundamental human right and a cornerstone of social progress, I hope to lay the foundation for a brighter, more prosperous future for generations to come. In conclusion, my ambition, drive, and passion for public service stem from a deep-seated belief in the inherent dignity and worth of every individual and a profound commitment to building a more just, equitable, and inclusive society. Through my education and career, I aspire to use my talents and resources to effect positive change, uplift those in need, and leave a lasting legacy of compassion, empathy, and service to others. By harnessing the power of collaboration, innovation, and collective action, I am confident that together, we can create a world where opportunity knows no bounds and every person has the chance to thrive.
    Scholarship for Women Golfers
    Golf is more than just a sport to me; it's a sanctuary where I find solace, challenge, and renewal. From the moment I first gripped a club, I was captivated by the rhythm of the swing, the beauty of the course, and the camaraderie shared amongst players. What began as a casual pastime quickly blossomed into a lifelong passion, shaping not only my identity as an athlete but also serving as a source of resilience and strength during some of life's most challenging moments. My journey with golf took on a newfound significance during my high school years, a time marked by both triumph and tribulation. As a dedicated soccer player, I poured my heart and soul into the game, relishing the thrill of competition and the camaraderie of teammates. However, fate had other plans in store for me when I suffered a devastating injury during a routine match—a torn ACL that shattered my dreams of continuing my soccer career. In the wake of this setback, I found myself grappling with a profound sense of loss and uncertainty. The sport that had once been my passion and my purpose was now out of reach, leaving a void in its wake. Faced with the daunting prospect of navigating through the darkness of depression, I turned to golf as a beacon of hope amidst the storm. Golf became my refuge, offering me a sense of purpose and a path towards healing in the midst of adversity. As I stepped onto the lush green fairways, I felt a sense of peace wash over me, the weight of my worries melting away with each swing of the club. In the serene tranquility of the course, I found a sanctuary where I could escape the pressures of daily life and rediscover a sense of joy and fulfillment. More than just a distraction, golf became a lifeline—a tangible reminder that even in the face of setbacks, there is always the opportunity for renewal and growth. With each round played, I embraced the challenge of mastering the intricacies of the game, channeling my energy into refining my technique and honing my skills. In the process, I discovered a resilience within myself that I never knew existed—a determination to persevere in the face of adversity and emerge stronger on the other side. But perhaps the most profound impact of golf on my life has been its role in fostering connections and building community. Through the shared pursuit of a common passion, I forged bonds with fellow golfers who became friends, mentors, and sources of inspiration. Whether navigating the challenges of a tricky course or celebrating the triumph of a well-played shot, these relationships enriched my life in ways I never imagined possible. Today, as I step onto the course each week, I am reminded of the transformative power of golf—the way it helped me find my footing when life knocked me off balance, and the way it continues to bring joy, purpose, and connection into my life. Though my soccer days may be behind me, I am grateful for the journey that led me to the fairways and greens of the golf course—a journey marked by resilience, growth, and the unwavering belief that even in the darkest of times, there is always light to be found on the horizon.
    Balancing Act Medical Student Scholarship
    Passion for healthcare courses through my veins like a steady heartbeat, a fervent calling that propels me towards making a meaningful impact in the lives of others. From a young age, I've been captivated by the intricate dance between science and compassion that defines the healthcare profession. The opportunity to alleviate suffering, restore hope, and champion the cause of wellness resonates deeply within me, fueling my unwavering commitment to this noble pursuit. In particular, women's healthcare holds a special place in my heart, representing a realm where compassion and advocacy converge to uplift and empower individuals. Recognizing the unique healthcare needs and challenges faced by women, I am deeply committed to promoting equitable access to comprehensive healthcare services that address the full spectrum of women's health concerns. From reproductive health to breast cancer screening and prevention, women's healthcare encompasses a breadth of issues that demand attention, compassion, and expertise. Within the landscape of women's healthcare, the field of radiology occupies a pivotal role, offering invaluable insights through diagnostic imaging modalities that guide clinical decision-making and facilitate timely interventions. As I embark on my journey in the field of radiology, I am acutely aware of the profound impact that imaging technologies have on the detection, diagnosis, and management of women's health conditions, particularly breast cancer. Radiology serves as a cornerstone of women's healthcare, providing a lens through which clinicians can visualize and interpret the complexities of the human body with precision and clarity. By harnessing the power of radiological imaging, we can empower women with the knowledge, resources, and support they need to navigate their healthcare journeys with confidence and resilience. Moreover, radiology extends beyond diagnosis to encompass therapeutic interventions, offering minimally invasive procedures that provide targeted treatment options for women facing a diverse array of health challenges. From image-guided biopsies to interventional radiological procedures, this specialized field empowers clinicians to deliver personalized care that optimizes outcomes while minimizing risks and discomfort for patients. By embracing the multidisciplinary nature of radiology and collaborating closely with other healthcare professionals, I am dedicated to advancing the frontiers of women's healthcare, forging new pathways to wellness and fostering a culture of innovation and excellence in patient care. In essence, my passion for healthcare, particularly within the realm of women's health and radiology, is driven by a profound sense of purpose and a deep-rooted commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of others. Through compassion, advocacy, and expertise, I aspire to contribute to a future where every individual, regardless of gender or circumstance, has access to high-quality, compassionate healthcare that honors their dignity, respects their autonomy, and empowers them to live their lives to the fullest.
    Annie Pringle Memorial Scholarship
    Breast health education holds profound significance for me, woven from a tapestry of personal experiences, professional aspirations, and a deep-rooted commitment to making a difference in the lives of others. At its core, breast health education embodies empowerment, serving as a beacon of knowledge that illuminates the path to proactive health management. This empowerment is not merely about disseminating information but about instilling a sense of agency within individuals, empowering them to become active participants in safeguarding their own well-being. Growing up, I witnessed firsthand the transformative power of knowledge through my grandmother's journey with breast cancer. Despite the challenges she faced, her unwavering commitment to educating herself about her condition empowered her to navigate her diagnosis with resilience and determination. Her experience ignited within me a profound belief in the transformative potential of education, igniting a passion for promoting breast health awareness and prevention. Central to breast health education is the concept of prevention, a cornerstone in the fight against breast cancer and other related conditions. By equipping individuals with a comprehensive understanding of risk factors, lifestyle choices, and environmental influences, breast health education serves as a powerful tool in the arsenal against this formidable disease. Through targeted interventions and proactive measures, individuals can mitigate their risk of developing breast cancer, thereby altering the trajectory of their health outcomes. For me, the pursuit of prevention is deeply personal, rooted in a desire to honor my grandmother's legacy by championing initiatives that empower individuals to take charge of their health and well-being. Equally essential to the fabric of breast health education is the imperative of early detection, a critical determinant in the prognosis and treatment of breast cancer. By raising awareness about the signs and symptoms of breast cancer and promoting regular screenings, such as mammograms, breast health education facilitates the timely detection of abnormalities, offering individuals the best chance at successful treatment outcomes. The significance of early detection cannot be overstated, as it not only increases the likelihood of favorable prognoses but also empowers individuals with the knowledge and resources to confront their diagnosis with courage and resilience. My grandmother's journey underscored the pivotal role that early detection plays in the fight against breast cancer, further fueling my determination to contribute to this vital aspect of breast health education. Beyond its clinical implications, breast health education serves as a catalyst for social change, challenging stigmas and fostering a culture of empathy and support for those affected by breast cancer. By cultivating open dialogue and promoting inclusivity, breast health education creates a safe and nurturing environment where individuals feel empowered to share their experiences, seek support, and advocate for their needs. As someone who has witnessed the profound impact of community support firsthand, I am deeply committed to fostering spaces where individuals affected by breast cancer feel seen, heard, and valued. On a personal level, my grandmother's battle with breast cancer ignited within me a fervent desire to pursue a career in mammography, driven by a passion for making a tangible difference in the lives of others. As a mammographer, I aspire to play a pivotal role in the early detection of breast cancer, leveraging cutting-edge technology and compassionate care to provide individuals with the highest standard of diagnostic imaging services. My grandmother's journey serves as a constant reminder of the transformative power of early detection, reinforcing my commitment to ensuring that every individual has access to timely and accurate screenings. In conclusion, breast health education is not merely a field of study or a professional pursuit; it is a calling, rooted in a profound sense of purpose and a deep-seated commitment to promoting the well-being of others. Through empowerment, prevention, early detection, and advocacy, breast health education offers a beacon of hope to individuals affected by breast cancer, illuminating a path towards resilience, healing, and renewed vitality. My grandmother's journey continues to inspire and guide me on this path, fueling my passion for making a meaningful difference in the lives of others and driving my unwavering dedication to the field of breast health education.