The first time I realized how dangerous limited healthcare literacy could be, I was sitting on the cool marble floor of my grandparents’ house in rural India. Our neighbor, a wiry man in his fifties, came in coughing so hard he had to grip the doorframe for support. My grandmother rushed to the kitchen, returning with a glass of turmeric milk. He drank it gratefully, thanking her as if it were medicine. Later, I learned that he had been coughing for weeks but hadn’t seen a doctor because he “didn’t want to make a fuss.” In his mind, home remedies were enough—because he didn’t know the warning signs of something more serious. Scenes like this repeated themselves throughout my visits. Children with fevers were wrapped in blankets instead of taken to clinics. Elderly neighbors rubbed herbal balms on aching joints, never knowing there were treatments that could help. It wasn’t simply a lack of doctors; it was a lack of knowledge and trust. People didn’t always understand when professional care was necessary—or felt too intimidated to seek it out. These experiences stayed with me, planting the seed of a passion I didn’t have a name for yet: healthcare literacy. In high school, I found a way to act on that passion through HOSA. I led public service announcement (PSA) projects aimed at educating my community about health topics that often go unspoken. One year, my team created a PSA on fentanyl misuse, highlighting how a single pill could be deadly and showing teens how to recognize and respond to overdose risks. Another year, we focused on Alzheimer’s awareness, teaching people the early signs and how to support loved ones with the disease. We shared these PSAs on social media, where they reached hundreds of viewers outside our school. When I saw comments like, “I didn’t know this—thank you for sharing,” I felt the same urgency I felt in my grandparents’ village, but this time paired with hope. I had taken a step—small, but real—toward bridging the gap between knowledge and care. These experiences shaped the vision I have for my future. As a physician, I want to do more than diagnose and treat—I want to be a trusted source of information, the kind of doctor patients feel safe approaching with their fears and questions. I want my patients, whether in a small rural village or a busy American city, to never feel ashamed for not knowing, and to never hesitate to seek help. By combining my medical education with outreach and advocacy, I hope to fight the silent barrier of healthcare illiteracy. I want to give people the tools to recognize danger signs, make informed choices, and trust that they have someone who will listen. This scholarship will help me take the next step toward that future—one where fewer people rely only on household remedies, and more people have the knowledge and confidence to protect their health.

When I was eight years old, I woke up in the middle of the night to the sound of knocking on our front door in India. A man stood outside, desperate—his father was gravely ill and could not move. My grandfather, a doctor, did not hesitate. He grabbed his worn medical bag, slipped on his sandals, and left with the man into the dark streets. I remember watching from the doorway, awed by his calm urgency, and realizing for the first time the profound responsibility a doctor carries. By morning, the patient was stable, and the family’s gratitude was immeasurable. Moments like these shaped my dream of becoming a medical doctor. I want to have that same ability to bring comfort, healing, and trust to people in their most vulnerable moments. My grandfather’s dedication to his patients extended beyond medicine—he gave away medications for free, traveled long distances to visit bedridden patients, and answered every knock on our clinic door, day or night. His example taught me that being a doctor is not just a profession but a service to humanity. After moving to the United States, my passion for medicine only grew. I began volunteering in hospitals and shadowing physicians, where I observed the same essential need for trust and education in healthcare. Many families hesitated to seek care, sometimes out of fear, language barriers, or financial uncertainty. It reminded me of the challenges in rural India and reaffirmed my goal: to become the kind of doctor who bridges these gaps, offering care that is both accessible and compassionate. My career goal is to become a pediatrician, because I want to work closely with children and families, helping them build healthy foundations for life. Beyond clinical practice, I hope to make a lasting impact on my community by increasing medical literacy. I envision hosting workshops, collaborating with local schools, and providing outreach programs that teach families about preventive care, nutrition, and managing chronic conditions. I believe empowering people with knowledge can be just as transformative as treating an illness. The journey toward medicine has not been without challenges. As a student on a visa, I face restrictions that prevent me from working in paid internships or traditional jobs, making it difficult to gain experience and save for medical school. While this can feel isolating, it has also taught me resilience and resourcefulness. I have sought out volunteer opportunities, engaged deeply in community service, and found meaning in contributing wherever I can. These experiences have strengthened my empathy for those who feel limited by circumstances beyond their control, and I plan to carry that understanding into my future medical practice. Ultimately, I hope to combine scientific knowledge with compassion to become the kind of doctor my grandfather was—a source of trust, support, and hope. By bringing accessible care, education, and mentorship to my community, I aim to create ripples of positive change, one patient and one family at a time.

When I was eight years old, I woke up in the middle of the night to the sound of knocking on our front door in India. A man stood outside, desperate—his father was gravely ill and could not move. My grandfather, a doctor, did not hesitate. He grabbed his worn medical bag, slipped on his sandals, and left with the man into the dark streets. I remember watching from the doorway, awed by his calm urgency, and realizing for the first time the profound responsibility a doctor carries. By morning, the patient was stable, and the family’s gratitude was immeasurable. Moments like these shaped my dream of becoming a medical doctor. I want to have that same ability to bring comfort, healing, and trust to people in their most vulnerable moments. My grandfather’s dedication to his patients extended beyond medicine—he gave away medications for free, traveled long distances to visit bedridden patients, and answered every knock on our clinic door, day or night. His example taught me that being a doctor is not just a profession but a service to humanity. After moving to the United States, my passion for medicine only grew. I began volunteering in hospitals and shadowing physicians, where I observed the same essential need for trust and education in healthcare. Many families hesitated to seek care, sometimes out of fear, language barriers, or financial uncertainty. It reminded me of the challenges in rural India and reaffirmed my goal: to become the kind of doctor who bridges these gaps, offering care that is both accessible and compassionate. My career goal is to become a pediatrician, because I want to work closely with children and families, helping them build healthy foundations for life. Beyond clinical practice, I hope to make a lasting impact on my community by increasing medical literacy. I envision hosting workshops, collaborating with local schools, and providing outreach programs that teach families about preventive care, nutrition, and managing chronic conditions. I believe empowering people with knowledge can be just as transformative as treating an illness. The journey toward medicine has not been without challenges. As a student on a visa, I face restrictions that prevent me from working in paid internships or traditional jobs, making it difficult to gain experience and save for medical school. While this can feel isolating, it has also taught me resilience and resourcefulness. I have sought out volunteer opportunities, engaged deeply in community service, and found meaning in contributing wherever I can. These experiences have strengthened my empathy for those who feel limited by circumstances beyond their control, and I plan to carry that understanding into my future medical practice. Ultimately, I hope to combine scientific knowledge with compassion to become the kind of doctor my grandfather was—a source of trust, support, and hope. By bringing accessible care, education, and mentorship to my community, I aim to create ripples of positive change, one patient and one family at a time.

I grew up in the small town of Navsari, India where medical literacy was rare and a trusted doctor could mean the difference between life and death. For my community, that doctor was my grandfather. He ran a modest home clinic, and I watched patients travel long distances—or sometimes be too sick to travel at all. My grandfather never turned anyone away. He would pack his medical bag and walk or drive to them, often refusing payment, sometimes waking up at 1 a.m. when someone knocked on our door in need. He became more than a doctor—he was a lifeline, a figure of trust and compassion. I want to become a medical doctor because I saw how impactful that trust can be. My grandfather’s work inspired me to imagine a future where I could serve as that reliable figure for communities that feel overlooked—both in rural areas like where I grew up and here in the United States. His example showed me that medicine is not just about science or skill, but about service. My journey toward this goal, however, has come with challenges. I currently live in the U.S. on a visa, which restricts me from working in most paid internships or jobs that could help me save for medical school and gain experience. While my peers pursue clinical work or paid research, I have to rely on unpaid volunteer opportunities, finding creative ways to stay involved in the field I love. Financially, this is difficult, and emotionally, it can feel isolating to face barriers beyond my control. But these challenges have also shaped me into a more resilient, resourceful person. I believe my experiences will make me a better doctor. Living with limitations has given me deep empathy for those who feel powerless in the face of circumstances—patients who cannot afford treatment, immigrants navigating unfamiliar systems, or families unsure of where to turn for help. I understand what it feels like to need someone to believe in you, and I hope to provide that support to my patients, just as my grandfather did for his. Ultimately, I hope to carry his legacy forward: to be the kind of doctor who is not only knowledgeable, but also kind, generous, and unrelenting in the pursuit of care. I want to serve communities where medical access is scarce, building relationships rooted in trust and understanding. My obstacles have taught me perseverance and compassion, and I plan to turn both into strengths in my medical career. In becoming a doctor, I am not only fulfilling a personal dream but also continuing a legacy of service—one that started in a small clinic in India, with a grandfather who answered every knock on the door.

I’m a high school senior and the first in my family to go to college in the United States. At school, I’m part of the IB program, where my passion for research has flourished. My favorite project so far has been my Biology IA, where I conducted a simple experiment on the properties of onion cells. Though my clothes smelled faintly of onion for days, I loved every moment of navigating the scientific process. It gave me a newfound appreciation for molecular interactions and the curiosity that fuels science. Outside of academics, I’m heavily involved in several clubs, including National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, HOSA, and French Honor Society, where I serve as co-president. These organizations have allowed me to give back to my community through various service opportunities. One of my favorite experiences has been tutoring students at my high school. Whether it’s helping with SAT prep, TSI exams, STAAR tests, or everyday homework, I find immense joy in seeing a concept click for someone. Tutoring isn’t just about academics for me—it’s about building confidence and showing others that success is within their reach. After high school, I plan to pursue a double major in Biochemistry and Business. I aim to become a physician, specializing in pediatrics, while also exploring the management and financial side of medicine. I believe understanding both the clinical and operational aspects of healthcare will allow me to make a greater impact, not just on individual patients, but on the system as a whole. If I could start my own charity, it would focus on providing financial aid to immigrants with temporary visa statuses, like me. Throughout my college application process, I’ve encountered countless roadblocks: scholarships, full-ride tuition, and internships that are inaccessible because I don’t hold a green card or U.S. citizenship. It’s frustrating to realize that my hard work and achievements are often overshadowed by my immigration status. My charity would aim to level the playing field for students like me, who have the talent and drive to succeed but are held back by factors beyond their control. The mission would be to provide financial support for college tuition, application fees, test preparation, and other expenses associated with higher education. Volunteers would help with fundraising, mentorship, and spreading awareness about the unique challenges faced by temporary residents. This cause is personal to me because I’ve experienced the stress and discouragement of navigating a system that doesn’t always recognize my potential. By creating this charity, I hope to remove some of the hurdles that make the journey to higher education more difficult for immigrant students. Everyone deserves the chance to pursue their dreams, and I want to be part of making that a reality.

When I was in elementary school, my Indian heritage was my secret weapon. While my classmates brought peanut butter sandwiches to school, I showed up with fragrant samosas and biryani that everyone fought over. I was the cool kid with delicious home cooked meals in my lunchbox and a head full of stories about vibrant festivals no one else celebrated. My classmates thought Diwali was some kind of magical second Christmas, and I wasn’t about to correct them. Back then, being Indian was my claim to fame, and my temporary immigrant status? Barely a footnote. As I got older, things got a little more complicated. My ability to speak 4 languages and cultural traditions started to feel like reminders that I wasn’t fully “American.” Despite my perfect American accent, top-of-the-class grades, and a resumé full of extracurriculars, my nationality started feeling like an invisible wall separating me from opportunities. Scholarships, full-ride tuitions, internships—some of the biggest doors were slammed shut before I even got a chance to knock, all because of my visa status. As a foreign student, I’ve come to see this as the frustrating reality of my life. At first, I was angry—how could my hard work be dismissed so easily? But now, I’ve grown numb to it, bracing myself for the eligibility criteria that don't give me a second glance. Even my dreams of becoming a pediatrician—a goal I’ve worked toward for years—have been thrown into question. When I learned that nearly 50% of U.S. medical schools won’t even consider temporary residents, I felt like someone had pulled the rug out from under me. Suddenly, I had to consider backup plans. Business? Politics? Maybe I should just open a samosa stand on the side of the highway and embrace the cultural stereotype. Despite the setbacks, this journey has taught me resilience. It’s also given me a deep appreciation for my family’s sacrifices. My parents left behind the familiarity of Gujarat to start over in the U.S., determined to give me a better future. Their dedication inspires me to push forward, even when the odds feel stacked against me. Although I've learned that the so-called land of opportunity doesn't always keep immigrants like me in mind, I’ve found allies along the way— high school teachers, volunteer mentors, and my diverse group of friends who see me for more than my visa status. They remind me that my identity isn’t something to hide or downplay, but a rich, complex story to celebrate. My journey so far has reshaped my life and career aspirations. It’s made me a fighter, an advocate, and someone who finds creative solutions to challenges. Whether I become a pediatrician, a politician, or the CEO of the world’s best samosa stand, I know I’ll carry these lessons with me. My story may not fit neatly into a box, but it’s mine, and it’s something I’m incredibly proud of—even if it comes with a side of mango pickle.

Initially, community service was just another box to tick off for college applications. I didn't understand why people willingly spend their time helping others when they could be advancing their own careers. However, the summer after my sophomore year, I joined the St. David's Medical Center volunteer program, and my mindset began to shift. At first, I dreaded giving up my weekends, feeling like my time could be better spent elsewhere. But as the weeks went on, I found myself drawn to the meaningful interactions I had with both patients and staff. One of my favorite experiences was wheeling down new moms and their babies to meet their eager families. The joy and gratitude in those moments were contagious and fulfilling. This experience not only allowed me to see firsthand the compassion of healthcare professionals but also inspired my own aspirations to become a pediatrician. Community service has taught me the value of helping others and the joy that comes with being part of a larger purpose. It transformed my volunteer experiences from something I dreaded to an event I looked forward to, and it reinforced my goal to making a lasting impact in my community through medicine.

I’m a high school senior passionate about biochemistry and medicine, with the goal of becoming a pediatrician. My journey has been shaped by experiences in leadership, service, and a curiosity for learning. These have taught me the importance of connecting with people and using my skills to address their needs. Through my involvement in organizations and community service, I’ve discovered how to turn my passions into meaningful impact. As the Secretary of my school's HOSA chapter, I have worked to motivate students to pursue health science and leadership. One of my greatest memories was organizing a competition interest meeting; I stepped out of my comfort zone and gave an impromptu speech about my passion for healthcare. This experience not only instilled greater confidence in me but also allowed me to relate to my peers and help them seek out new opportunities that might define their future. Similarly, as Co-President of the National French Honor Society, I've also worked on initiatives that integrate cultural appreciation through community service. For example, a project recently initiated tutors younger students in French, improving their language skills and increasing their cross-cultural awareness. My commitment to service extends beyond school organizations. Over the past two summers, I’ve volunteered at CPRMC and St. David’s hospitals, rotating through departments like surgery, med-surgery, and pharmacy. One of the most memorable moments was helping a French patient who knew limited English navigate post-surgical care instructions, which reminded me of the critical role of communication in healthcare. These experiences have not only solidified my interest in medicine, but also shown me the disparities in access to healthcare. In the future, I want to make a positive impact in my community by merging my interest in medicine and my love for service. Specifically, I want to conduct health education workshops that will help people take responsibility for their well-being and volunteer at clinics that help a people from a wide array of backgrounds. I also have a passion for teaching and will go further to mentor younger students in the field of STEM to inspire them in their future careers within science and health. Beyond that, I hope to utilize my cross-cultural experiences to create inclusivity and understanding within diverse communities. Through health education, mentorship, or cultural outreach, I am committed to the difference I can make in the lives of people around me. By focusing on meaningful connections and practical solutions, I can make my community healthier, more inclusive, and more empowered.

I move the wheelchair back into its place and glance at my watch - a few minutes before my shift ends. It had been almost a month into the St. David’s Summer Volunteer Program - a program I was selected for in 2023, the summer before my junior year. While I was initially apprehensive (and perhaps a little scared!) to talk and interact with medical professionals, I soon started to love my time at the hospital, as I felt that I was an inspiration for younger children and that I was making a positive impact on the patients. However, this opportunity didn’t come easily - for months, I searched for opportunities that would allow me to explore my interests. During my search, I was disappointed to find out how many doors were closed to me and how many opportunities I was auto-excluded from, simply due to my immigrant status. Growing up, my family traveled several times from the US to my home country. I felt like I was living two lives - in India, I was constantly surrounded by multicolored buildings, aromatic scents of street food, strains of Bollywood music emanating from a distant radio, and hustling marketplaces filled with vendors hawking a vast array of goods, from opulent saris to complicated 3D puzzles (my favorite!). In comparison, my life in the US suburbs was significantly calmer. When I was younger, this dual reality felt like a superpower - not everyone was as lucky as me to lead two lives! In third grade, my family had to move back to India due to complex visa issues I didn’t quite understand at the time. My parents told me that this time, we weren’t just visiting - we would have to live there for at least a year. Understandably, I instantly broke down into tears - although I loved India, I didn’t want to move away from my friends and teachers or start at a new school. It was challenging to adapt to my new academic environment - I wasn’t accustomed to speaking Hindi, which sounded horribly garbled with my strong American accent. In addition, the competition to succeed was so ingrained within the other students at such a young age and the teachers weren’t as compassionate as my old teachers - it was difficult to keep up in such an environment. Despite these challenges, I was considerably upset (yet again) to leave my comfort zone yet again when my parents said we were moving back to the US. I haven't been able to visit India in seven years due to more visa problems. My immigrant status created instability in my life and has continued to generate challenges. During my high school career, I struggled to find extracurricular opportunities that appealed to me, as paid internships and jobs I found required US citizenship. Even as I begin my scholarship search, I’m shocked by the limited number of scholarships available to me. However, these challenges have taught me resilience and adaptability. I’ve had to navigate systems that weren’t designed with people like me in mind and quickly adapt to unfamiliar environments. I learned to persevere despite the setbacks. Each obstacle I faced reinforced my determination to succeed and gave me a sense of purpose. There were certainly moments when I felt like giving up. The unachievable eligibility criterias, the feeling of not belonging, and envy for the numerous opportunities I felt towards US citizens was exhausting. But every time I felt like quitting, I reminded myself that while my immigrant status is an aspect of me, it doesn’t define me - it can’t limit me. Asking for help was another challenge I overcame. To many members of my culture, seeking assistance was akin to admitting defeat. However, I soon realized that collaboration and support were important steps to make progress - it doesn’t mean I’m weak. My background has given me a unique perspective on the struggles faced by immigrants and has fueled my ambition to become a physician in an equitable healthcare system. I believe that no one should be denied opportunities because of circumstances beyond their control. As I move forward, I carry with me the resilience, adaptability, and compassion that have defined my journey thus far. These qualities will aid me in my future medical career and allow me to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those I will serve. Although I’ve faced many challenges, they’ve strengthened my resolve to create a more inclusive and supportive world.

Choosing a favorite K-Pop group is not an easy task given the diverse talent and creativity in the industry. However, as a proud ARMY, BTS stands out as my favorite - the group has not only revolutionized the global music scene but has also profoundly impacted my personal life and countless others around the world. BTS has been a source of immense inspiration and motivation ever since I discovered their music when I was in middle school. Their music, often laced with themes of self-love, mental health, and the journey towards one's dreams, resonates deeply with me. During times of self-doubt and anxiety, listening to songs like "Epiphany" and "Magic Shop" have provided comfort and solace. The lyrics, coupled with their genuine personalities, have taught me the importance of loving myself and striving for my goals despite obstacles. BTS's journey from an unknown group in a small company to global superstars is a testament to the power of perseverance and hard work. Their story encourages me to push through challenges and remain steadfast in my pursuits. The way they openly discuss their struggles and triumphs has made me more resilient and determined to overcome my own hurdles in my academic career, such as balancing excellent grades with several extracurricular activities. Moreover, the member’s active engagement with their fanbase, ARMY, has promoted a sense of community and belonging. Being a part of this global fandom has connected me with people from diverse backgrounds and provided a starting point for many close friendships. This has broadened my horizons, enhanced my cultural understanding, and enriched my social interactions. One of the most important aspects I admire of BTS’s impact is their use of their platform for social advocacy. Their partnership with UNICEF on the "Love Myself" campaign to end violence against children and teens is a prime example of their commitment to bringing about positive, global change. Their speeches at the United Nations, addressing self-empowerment and the importance of speaking oneself, have inspired millions and embodied the power of using one's voice for good. Their emphasis on mental health has sparked important conversations worldwide. By openly discussing their struggles with anxiety and depression, they have destigmatized mental health issues and encouraged fans and other individuals to seek help and support. This advocacy has had a ripple effect, leading to increased awareness and resources dedicated to mental health globally. BTS is my favorite K-Pop group not just for their extraordinary musical talent but for their profound impact on my life and the world at large. They have inspired me to love myself, persevere through my personal academic challenges, and appreciate the beauty of cultural diversity. Their global influence as cultural ambassadors and advocates for important social issues exemplifies the power of music to transcend boundaries and create meaningful change. BTS has not only redefined the global music industry but has also made the world a better, more connected place.

Growing up in a South Asian community, fall has always marked a time of celebration and community. Among the many traditions and experiences that mark this season, the custom of afternoon tea holds a special place in my heart. It's a time when family and friends come together to connect, share stories, and unwind from the day's activities. Central to these gatherings is traditional aromatic chai, known for its robust and spicy flavors. When I finally became old enough to “graduate” from the kids’ table and join the adults, my mother handed me my very first cup of chai - after taking my first sip, I immediately spit it out because of its overwhelming intensity. From that day on, I sat at the gatherings holding a cold glass of overly sweet chocolate milk and stared at everyone else’s comforting cups of liquified warmth, feeling somewhat left out. To regain my sense of connection, I sought an alternative that still allowed me to feel a part of our cherished tea traditions. Enter the Starbucks Chai Latte — a delightful fusion of smooth, creamy textures and subtle spices that beautifully capture the essence of Indian chai while offering a milder flavor profile that appeals to my palate. Tasting this drink for the first time felt like discovering a bridge between my cultural heritage and personal preferences. For me, the Chai Latte is more than just an autumn beverage; it became a symbol of connection, allowing me to participate fully in our late-afternoon tea rituals with my family members. This drink has seamlessly woven itself into my fall routine, embodying values of inclusivity and cultural appreciation. It represents the blending of traditions and the celebration of diversity within my household and community. Whether enjoying a chai latte while studying with friends or sharing one with family and loved ones during our gatherings, this drink serves as a reminder of the importance of cultural identity and the power of shared experiences. As a student dedicated to academic excellence and community engagement, receiving this scholarship would not only provide financial support for my educational pursuits but also validate the importance I place on cultural traditions, which shape our identities and promote unity. Through my membership of several South Asian organizations, such as South Asian Student Association and my local Hindu temple, I’ve organized events that celebrate various cultural heritages and promote understanding among students. This scholarship would enable me to expand these initiatives, advocating for inclusivity and cultural understanding in both my community and on my campus. The Chai Latte, a blend of cultural essence and personal preference, embodies the power of shared experiences and cultural appreciation, encouraging individuals to connect with their heritage and inviting others to explore new cultures.