Age
Gender
Ethnicity
Religion
Church
Hobbies and interests
Reading
I read books multiple times per week
US CITIZENSHIP
US Citizen
LOW INCOME STUDENT
FIRST GENERATION STUDENT
Yes
Maria Rojas
2,485
Bold Points1x
FinalistMaria Rojas
2,485
Bold Points1x
FinalistBio
Education
Saint Vincent Ferrer High School
High SchoolGPA:
4
Miscellaneous
Desired degree level:
Bachelor's degree program
Majors of interest:
- Neurobiology and Neurosciences
- Medicine
- Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Other
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
- Biopsychology
Career
Dream career field:
Medicine
Dream career goals:
My vision is clear: In 2029, I will graduate from Villanova University with a degree in cognitive behavioral neuroscience, complemented by a peace and justice minor. This foundation will lay the groundwork for my long-term aspirations. By 2033, I will graduate from The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, equipped with the expertise to enter the surgical field. At 30, in 2038, I will be in the fourth year of a seven-year neurosurgery residency at Weill Cornell Medicine, specializing in neuro-oncology. I will also establish The NeuroBridge Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to expanding access to brain wellness and educational opportunities for underrepresented Latino communities. My future path has been shaped by my sensitivity to suffering and a determination to help those silenced by status. Growing up in poverty-stricken areas in Colombia, I witnessed many lacking coverage for health resources, which awakened my motivation to serve. Struggles with unaffordable healthcare within my family intensified my resolve to advocate for equitable treatment for low-income groups. My mother’s involvement with the Alzheimer’s Association further energized this conviction. It opened my eyes to the devastating effects of neurodegenerative illnesses, kindling a deep respect for the cerebrum and setting ablaze a desire to take action. Visiting elderly residents with Alzheimer’s in nursing homes, I saw the heartbreak of memory loss, reinforcing my commitment to finding pathways to alleviate anguish by reviving function and offering hope. Immersing myself in peptide inhibitor research and engaging with my biochemistry professor, a Cornell researcher, amplified my vocation for restoration. This drive evolved into an undeniable calling to cure through the precision of brain surgery, blending scientific discovery with the hands-on skill to remove the source of pain and renew vitality. My professional and community ambitions will center on achieving concrete results in neurosurgical mastery and enriching the lives of diverse populations. The residency program will guide me toward life-saving surgeries while accelerating breakthroughs in conditions like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. Though demanding, the reward of celebrating a patient's smile after overcoming a critical complication will make it worthwhile. I will sharpen the discipline of meticulousness and embrace the duty of transforming the operating room into a stage of harmony, a privilege that will be my greatest. At the intersection of curiosity and public outreach, The NeuroBridge Foundation will develop. My team and I will promote inclusion by delivering neuroscience workshops, mentoring aspiring professionals from disadvantaged origins, and providing free assessments to identify neurological disorders. We aim to empower people from all backgrounds by increasing exposure to caregiving spaces and enabling them to pursue medical careers despite challenges. I will continue pushing the boundaries of brain disease studies, ensuring well-being is a fundamental right. Each procedure will reaffirm my devotion to preserving human dignity. My mission is to unite my enthusiasm for neuro-oncology with my responsibility for civic engagement, inspiring leaders to revolutionize society with the healing power of compassionate practice. My loyalty to medicine will steer me in the direction of excellence, continually nourished by my love for others.
I assist seniors with errands, grocery shopping, prescriptions, and provide companionship. This experience has taught me the importance of emotional support and how vital it is to listen to their stories, showing them they are valued.
HHA2024 – Present1 yearIn this nursing home, I assisted elderly residents with daily tasks, including feeding, pain management, and organizing activities. This experience deepened my understanding of caregiving and taught me to find joy in life's simplest moments.
Corporación Corazones Abiertos2024 – 2024I gained hands-on experience as a Dental Assistant. I learned patient care, dental terminology, and office administration, developing both technical and communication skills while building professional relationships in healthcare.
Dental Magic in Medellín, Colombia2022 – 20242 yearsAs a Translator and Bilingual Office Assistant, I assist Latino clients in an immigration office by providing translations and administrative support. I prioritize clients' needs and offer both practical help and emotional support.
Villas Servicios Múltiples Queens2022 – Present3 yearsAs an Academic Tutor, I volunteered to support low-income students with subjects like Biology, Algebra and English. I helped them build confidence, improve academic skills, and develop study strategies, contributing to educational equity and success.
UPchieve2024 – 2024As a Regional Director and Team Leader, I lead initiatives to empower youth through wellness programs. I teach the five pillars of health and create content, fostering social justice and community well-being while developing strong leadership skills.
KARMANT Learning2024 – Present1 yearAs a tutor, I provided one-on-one literacy support, enhancing students' reading, vocabulary, and comprehension. By fostering engagement and building strong connections, I helped bridge learning gaps, reinforcing my passion for education and mentorship.
Reading Partners2022 – 20242 yearsAs a student at Outschool, I gained essential financial literacy skills, learning budgeting, saving, and investing. Through interactive projects, I built confidence in managing money and applying real-life strategies for future financial responsibilities.
Outschool2023 – 20241 yearAt Writopia Lab, I refined my writing through workshops, earning Gold and Silver Keys in the Scholastic Awards. I spoke at the NYC Gold Key Ceremony and the NAACP, sharing my voice on larger platforms. My poem Midnight Isolation was a semifinalist.
Writopia Lab2023 – 20252 yearsAs Editor-in-Chief of The Literary Kaleidoscope, I lead design, editing, and layout for our school's anthology, featured in the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards blog. This role has enhanced my leadership, creativity, and public speaking skills.
Scholastics Art and Writing Awards2023 – Present2 yearsAt the Dominico-American Society of Queens, I mentor Hispanic immigrant children, helping them improve their English, Spanish, and Math skills. I create engaging lessons that spark curiosity, empowering students to embrace learning.
Dominico-American Society of Queens2023 – Present2 years
Sports
Swimming
Junior VarsityFigure Skating
Junior VarsityCheerleading
Junior VarsityRhythmic Gymnastics
Junior VarsityVolleyball
Junior VarsityArts
St. Vincent Ferrer High school
Painting2022 – PresentSt. Vincent Ferrer High school
Graphic Art2024 – PresentSt. Vincent Ferrer High school
Photography2022 – Present
Public services
Advocacy
JASA — JASANextGen member,2021 – 2023