The loss of my parent had a profound impact on every part of my life—personally, academically, and financially. It was not just an emotional experience, but a major turning point that reshaped my responsibilities, priorities, and long-term goals. Personally, losing my father was one of the most difficult challenges I have ever faced. It brought intense emotions such as sadness, confusion, and at times a sense of emptiness. There were moments when I struggled to understand how life could continue to move forward while I was still processing such a significant loss. Over time, I also experienced feelings of resilience and growth. I had to learn how to navigate grief while still showing up for my family and myself. This experience changed me by making me more empathetic and more aware of how quickly life can change. It also strengthened my emotional maturity, as I learned to process difficult feelings instead of avoiding them. Academically, the loss of my parent created additional challenges. It became harder to focus at times, especially during periods of grief or emotional stress. Balancing schoolwork with personal responsibilities required more discipline and time management than before. However, I also became more motivated to succeed in school because I saw education as a pathway to stability and a better future. I pushed myself to stay committed to my goals, even when it was difficult, and I developed a stronger sense of purpose in my studies. My academic drive became tied to honoring my father’s memory and creating opportunities for myself and my family. Financially, the loss also brought significant challenges. My family had to adjust to changes in income and responsibilities, which added stress to daily life. I became more aware of the importance of financial stability and planning for the future. This experience motivated me to think seriously about my career path and the importance of pursuing higher education. I want to enter a field like anesthesiology not only because I am passionate about medicine, but also because it offers the opportunity for long-term stability and the ability to support my family. Overall, the loss of my parent has shaped me into a more responsible, motivated, and empathetic individual. While it has brought hardship, it has also given me a deeper understanding of resilience and purpose. It has influenced my academic focus, strengthened my determination to pursue higher education, and reinforced my desire to build a future where I can support both myself and my family. Most importantly, it has taught me to value each opportunity and to keep moving forward, even in the face of adversity.

Olivia Rodrigo’s music resonates with me because it captures emotions like grief, confusion, growth, and resilience in a way that feels honest and relatable. Her lyrics often reflect moments of heartbreak and self-discovery, which connect closely to my own experiences of loss and learning how to navigate life after my father passed away. One lyric that stands out to me is from drivers license: “I got my driver's license last week.” While it may seem simple, that line represents a moment of transition and growing up. For me, it connects to how my life changed suddenly after my dad passed. Even though I was still young, I felt like I had to mature quickly and take on responsibilities I wasn’t fully prepared for. That sense of being pushed into a new stage of life earlier than expected reflects my own journey of stepping up for my family while still trying to figure out who I am. Another lyric that resonates is from deja vu: “Do you get déjà vu when she’s with you?” While this lyric is about emotional comparison and memory, it connects to how grief often works for me. There are moments in everyday life when something reminds me of my dad—a phrase, a place, or a memory—and it feels like he is still present in some way. Those moments can be both comforting and painful. They remind me of what I’ve lost, but also of the love and influence that continues to shape me. Listening to Olivia Rodrigo has helped me process emotions that I sometimes struggle to express. Her songs reflect the complexity of feeling sadness, anger, confusion, and growth all at once. Through my own experience, I’ve learned that grief is not a straight path. Some days feel manageable, while others feel heavier. But like her music suggests, those emotions are part of learning who you are and how you move forward. This journey has also shown me my own resilience. I have learned how to keep going even when things feel overwhelming, and how to balance my responsibilities at home with my goals for the future. Journaling and reflection, along with music, have helped me understand my emotions instead of ignoring them. I have come to see that vulnerability is not weakness—it is part of healing and growth. Overall, Olivia Rodrigo’s lyrics remind me that I am not alone in navigating difficult emotions and life transitions. My personal journey has been shaped by loss, responsibility, and growth, but also by determination and hope. Through these experiences, I have developed a stronger sense of purpose, especially in pursuing my goal of becoming an anesthesiologist and continuing my education. Even through pain, I am learning how to move forward with strength and intention.

Losing my father was one of the most defining and difficult experiences of my life. His passing came at a young age, and it immediately shifted the way I viewed the world and my responsibilities within my family. In the aftermath, I had to step into a more mature role sooner than I expected, helping support my family emotionally while also trying to stay focused on school and my personal goals. That balance was not easy, and it forced me to grow in ways I never anticipated. Emotionally, I experienced a wide range of feelings that often came in waves. There was deep sadness and grief, especially in moments when I was reminded of his absence in everyday life. At times, I also felt frustration and confusion about why this had happened and how I was supposed to move forward. Alongside that, there were moments of pressure and responsibility as I tried to be strong for my family while also managing my own emotions. Over time, I learned that strength does not mean ignoring pain, but rather acknowledging it and continuing to move forward despite it. I also learned that it is okay to not have everything figured out and that healing is not a linear process. Through this experience, I began to understand myself on a deeper level. I realized that I am more resilient than I originally thought, and that I have the ability to adapt and persevere even during emotionally difficult times. I also discovered that I am someone who naturally takes on responsibility and tries to support others, even when I am struggling myself. While this has been challenging at times, it has also shaped my sense of purpose and direction. During this time, I found that journaling was especially helpful. Writing down my thoughts allowed me to process emotions that I could not always express out loud. It gave me a private space to reflect, release stress, and better understand what I was feeling. Journaling helped me organize my thoughts and made the weight of grief feel a little more manageable. While I have not consistently practiced meditation, I have become more mindful in my daily life—taking quiet moments to breathe, reflect, and regain focus when things feel overwhelming. This experience has strengthened my desire to continue my education and go to college. I see education as a pathway not only to a career but to stability, growth, and the ability to create a better future for myself and my family. It motivates me to pursue my goal of becoming an anesthesiologist, a career where I can help others during vulnerable moments and provide compassionate care. The biggest influences in my life include my mother, who has remained strong and supportive through everything, as well as my father’s memory, which continues to motivate me to work hard and make him proud. I am also influenced by teachers like Mrs. Sheena Kelly, who pushed me to reach my potential and believe in myself academically. Together, these influences have shaped my values, resilience, and determination to keep moving forward with purpose.

My experience with mental health has deeply shaped who I am, influencing my goals, my relationships, and the way I understand the world around me. One of the most significant moments in my life was the passing of my dad. Losing him at a young age was something I was not fully prepared to handle, and it forced me to grow up much faster than I expected. Along with the grief, I also felt a strong sense of responsibility to step up for my family, emotionally and practically. That experience changed how I view strength, support, and what it truly means to be there for others. Grief affected my mental health in ways that were difficult to put into words at the time. There were moments of sadness, stress, and feeling overwhelmed, especially as I tried to balance school, personal responsibilities, and being present for my family. However, going through that experience taught me resilience. I learned how to process difficult emotions, how to keep moving forward even when things felt heavy, and how to find strength in moments of vulnerability. It also showed me the importance of acknowledging mental health rather than ignoring it. Taking care of my emotional well-being became just as important as staying strong for others. This experience has had a lasting impact on my relationships. It made me more empathetic and aware of what others might be going through, even when they don’t express it openly. I have become someone who listens more closely, checks in on people, and tries to offer support when it’s needed. I understand that everyone carries their own challenges, and sometimes the smallest act of kindness or understanding can make a big difference. My relationships are now built on deeper trust, compassion, and genuine care. Losing my dad also influenced my goals, especially my desire to pursue a career in medicine. It gave me a new perspective on life and how fragile it can be. I became more motivated to help others, particularly during their most vulnerable moments. As I work toward becoming an anesthesiologist, I carry with me the understanding that patients are not just cases—they are people with families, emotions, and stories. I want to provide care that is not only skilled but also compassionate and respectful. Overall, my experience with mental health has shaped my understanding of the world as a place where challenges are inevitable, but growth and purpose can come from them. It has taught me resilience, empathy, and the importance of supporting others. While losing my dad was one of the hardest experiences of my life, it has helped shape me into someone who is stronger, more aware, and deeply committed to making a positive impact in the lives of others.

Attending higher education will play a vital role in helping me achieve my future goals and turn my aspirations into meaningful action. My long-term goal is to become an anesthesiologist, and college is the first major step in that journey. Through higher education, I will gain the strong academic foundation necessary in subjects like biology, chemistry, and other sciences that are essential for medical school. Beyond academics, college will provide opportunities for hands-on experiences such as research, internships, and clinical exposure, all of which will help me better understand the medical field and prepare me for the responsibilities of a healthcare career. Higher education will also shape me personally. It will challenge me to become more independent, disciplined, and resilient. I will learn how to manage my time effectively, adapt to new environments, and overcome obstacles—skills that are critical not only in medicine but in life. Additionally, being in a diverse academic setting will allow me to interact with people from different backgrounds and perspectives, helping me grow in empathy and understanding. These experiences will prepare me to work with a wide range of patients and provide care that is respectful and inclusive. I plan to use my education to create a positive impact by addressing inequalities in healthcare and promoting fairness in patient treatment. As a future anesthesiologist, I will be responsible for ensuring patients are safe and comfortable during some of their most vulnerable moments. I believe that everyone deserves equal care, regardless of their race, background, or socioeconomic status. Unfortunately, disparities still exist in healthcare, and I want to be part of the solution by providing unbiased, compassionate care and advocating for change within the system. In addition to my professional goals, I plan to stay actively involved in community service. I want to continue giving back by volunteering, supporting local initiatives, and mentoring younger students who are interested in pursuing higher education or careers in healthcare. I also care deeply about the environment and plan to stay engaged in efforts that promote sustainability and protect our communities. I believe that creating a positive impact is not limited to one career—it comes from consistently choosing to help others and contribute to the greater good. Ultimately, higher education is more than just a pathway to a career for me. It is an opportunity to grow, to serve, and to make a difference. It will equip me with the knowledge, skills, and perspective needed to improve lives, challenge inequality, and contribute to a more compassionate and just society.

One of the most influential people in my high school experience was my teacher, Mrs. Sheena Kelly. She taught a range of science subjects, including chemistry, biology, and plant science, but her impact went far beyond the content of her classes. What made her stand out was her unwavering belief in her students and her constant drive to push us toward excellence, even when we didn’t always see our own potential. Mrs. Kelly had a way of holding her students to high standards while still being supportive and encouraging. She never allowed me to settle for “good enough.” If she knew I could do better, she made sure I knew it too. At times, that push felt challenging, but over time I realized it was exactly what I needed. She saw potential in me that I hadn’t fully recognized in myself, and she challenged me to rise to it. Whether it was preparing for exams, completing lab work, or simply staying focused, she emphasized discipline, effort, and consistency. What truly set her apart was how much she cared about her students’ growth—not just academically, but personally. She took the time to explain concepts in different ways until they made sense and encouraged curiosity rather than just memorization. Her passion for science made learning engaging, and it inspired me to take my own interest in the subject more seriously. Because of her, I began to see science not just as a class, but as a path I could pursue in the future. Mrs. Kelly also influenced how I approach challenges in my life. She taught me that success doesn’t come from avoiding difficulty, but from pushing through it with determination. When I face obstacles now, I think about the expectations she set and the confidence she had in me. It motivates me to work harder and to believe that I am capable of more. Her influence has played a significant role in shaping my academic goals and my desire to pursue a career in medicine. The discipline, work ethic, and confidence she instilled in me continue to guide me as I work toward becoming an anesthesiologist. More importantly, she changed the way I see myself—as someone capable of achieving excellence with effort and persistence. Mrs. Sheena Kelly didn’t just teach science; she changed how I approach my life. Her belief in me helped me believe in myself, and that is something I will carry with me long after high school.

A college degree will significantly change the path of my life and create opportunities that extend beyond me to future generations of my family. By pursuing higher education and working toward a career as an anesthesiologist, I will be opening doors to stability, professional growth, and the ability to make a meaningful impact in people’s lives. For my family, my journey can serve as a powerful example of what is possible through hard work and determination. I want to set a foundation that encourages younger generations to pursue their own educational goals with confidence, knowing that success is within reach. A college degree is not just a personal milestone—it is something that can shift the expectations and possibilities for my entire family. Personally, earning a college degree means achieving something that requires dedication, sacrifice, and resilience. It represents years of effort and the ability to stay focused on a long-term goal despite challenges. More than that, it symbolizes independence and growth. It shows that I have pushed myself academically and personally to become someone capable of making a difference. A degree is also a tool—it will give me the knowledge, skills, and opportunities to pursue a meaningful career and contribute to society in a positive way. I am passionate about medicine, specifically anesthesiology, because it allows me to combine science with compassion and responsibility. Anesthesiologists play a critical role in patient care, ensuring safety and comfort during some of the most vulnerable moments in a person’s life. I am especially motivated by the opportunity to provide equitable care and help address disparities in healthcare, including bias that can affect patient outcomes. Everyone deserves to be treated with respect and fairness, and I want to be part of a profession that upholds those values. To pursue my passion, I have committed myself to academic excellence, particularly in science courses that will prepare me for a medical career. I am also actively involved in honor society, where I’ve had the opportunity to develop leadership skills and participate in community service. Volunteering has allowed me to connect with others, understand different perspectives, and strengthen my desire to help people in meaningful ways. These experiences have confirmed that my passion for medicine is not just about a career, but about making a difference. Through earning a college degree, I hope to transform my future while also inspiring and uplifting those around me. It is a step toward creating lasting change—for myself, my family, and the communities I hope to serve.

“Kindness in Action” One meaningful act of kindness I offered was helping a classmate who was struggling both academically and personally during a difficult time in their life. I noticed they had become withdrawn and were falling behind in class, so I reached out and offered to study with them after school. At first, it was just about helping them understand the material, but over time it became more about being someone they could rely on. I made sure to listen without judgment, encourage them when they felt overwhelmed, and remind them that they weren’t alone. This moment was important to me because it showed me that kindness goes beyond simple gestures—it requires patience, empathy, and consistency. It wasn’t always easy to balance my own responsibilities with helping someone else, but I realized that being there for another person can have a lasting impact. Over time, I saw their confidence grow, not just in class but in themselves. That experience reinforced my belief that small, intentional acts of support can truly change someone’s outlook. It also shaped how I view my role in the world. Kindness is not just about reacting when someone asks for help; it’s about noticing when someone might need support even if they don’t say it out loud. This perspective continues to influence how I approach relationships, service, and my future career, where compassion and attentiveness will be essential in making a difference in people’s lives. “Creating Connection” I have always believed that strong communities are built on inclusion, respect, and shared purpose. One way I helped bring people together was through my involvement in honor society service projects. During one project, I noticed that not everyone felt comfortable participating or sharing ideas, especially newer members. I took the initiative to create a more welcoming environment by encouraging open communication and making sure everyone’s voice was heard. I started by organizing smaller group discussions where people could feel more at ease expressing themselves. I also made an effort to personally reach out to members who seemed hesitant, inviting them to share their thoughts and ideas. By doing this, I helped create a space where people felt valued and included, rather than overlooked. Over time, I saw more members become engaged, contribute ideas, and take on leadership roles. This experience showed me that creating connection often starts with simple actions—listening, inviting participation, and showing genuine interest in others. It reinforced the idea that inclusion doesn’t happen automatically; it requires intentional effort. By fostering a sense of belonging, I was able to help strengthen not only the group dynamic but also the impact of our service work. Moving forward, I plan to continue building inclusive spaces wherever I go, whether in school, my community, or my future career in medicine. Creating connection is about more than bringing people together—it’s about making sure everyone feels seen, respected, and valued.

I am someone who strives to live with purpose, guided by the values of love, faith, and service. As an active member of the honor society, I have dedicated myself not only to academic achievement but also to leadership and community involvement. Being part of this organization has taught me the importance of integrity, discipline, and using my abilities to benefit others. I take pride in challenging myself in the classroom while also finding meaningful ways to give back beyond it. Service has become a central part of who I am. I enjoy volunteering in my community because it allows me to connect with others and make a tangible difference, even in small ways. Whether it’s helping at local events, supporting those in need, or participating in service projects, I have learned that giving back strengthens both the individual and the community. I am also deeply passionate about protecting the environment. I believe that caring for our planet is a responsibility we all share, and I try to contribute through sustainable practices, environmental awareness efforts, and community clean-up activities. These experiences have shown me that positive change often starts with consistent, everyday actions. My commitment to making a positive impact is rooted in my belief in love and faith. Love, to me, means treating every person with kindness, empathy, and respect, regardless of their background or circumstances. It is about listening, understanding, and showing compassion in ways that uplift others. Faith gives me strength and direction, helping me stay focused on my goals and grounded in my values. It reminds me to persevere through challenges and to trust that my efforts can contribute to something greater than myself. Looking ahead, I plan to carry these principles into my future career in medicine as an anesthesiologist. I am drawn to this field because it requires both technical skill and deep compassion, as patients rely on anesthesiologists during some of their most vulnerable moments. My goal is to provide care that is not only safe and effective but also equitable and free from bias. I want every patient, regardless of race, background, or socioeconomic status, to feel valued and respected. By promoting fairness and addressing disparities in healthcare, I hope to contribute to a more just medical system. Beyond my career, I will continue to serve my community and advocate for environmental sustainability. I believe that true impact comes from a lifelong commitment to helping others and protecting the world we share. Through love, faith, and community service, I hope to inspire those around me and play a role in creating a more compassionate, equitable, and sustainable future.

My academic interests are rooted in science, medicine, and the pursuit of equitable healthcare. I am particularly drawn to anesthesiology because it combines precision, critical thinking, and patient-centered care in high-stakes environments. The role of an anesthesiologist requires not only a deep understanding of physiology and pharmacology, but also trust, empathy, and the ability to advocate for patients when they are most vulnerable. This balance of technical expertise and human responsibility is what inspires me to pursue this path. As I continue my education, I plan to focus on building a strong foundation in biology, chemistry, and advanced medical studies. I am committed to excelling academically so I can gain admission to a competitive medical school and ultimately specialize in anesthesiology. Beyond the classroom, I aim to engage in volunteer work, clinical exposure, and research opportunities that will deepen my understanding of healthcare systems and patient experiences. These experiences will help me become not just a skilled professional, but also a compassionate and aware one. My long-term goal is to use my education to promote positive social change, particularly in addressing racial bias and inequality in healthcare. Studies and real-world experiences have shown that patients from different racial and ethnic backgrounds often receive unequal treatment, including disparities in pain management and surgical care. As an anesthesiologist, I will be in a position where my decisions directly affect a patient’s comfort, safety, and overall outcome. I take this responsibility seriously and intend to provide every patient with equal, unbiased care regardless of their race, background, or socioeconomic status. In addition to my work in the operating room, I hope to advocate for systemic change within healthcare institutions. This could include supporting policies that address implicit bias, participating in diversity training programs, and contributing to research that highlights disparities in medical treatment. I also want to mentor future students from underrepresented backgrounds who are interested in medicine, helping to create a more diverse and inclusive healthcare workforce. Education is more than a personal achievement—it is a tool for impact. By becoming an anesthesiologist, I will not only fulfill my passion for medicine but also contribute to a more just and equitable healthcare system. My goal is to ensure that every patient feels seen, respected, and cared for equally. Through dedication, awareness, and advocacy, I plan to use my education to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others and to help move society closer to true equality in healthcare.

The most significant hardship I faced in my life was when my father passed away. It was in August, right before my eighth-grade year. My whole family got COVID, and my father was the only one to not recover. It was a long month of him in the hospital fighting for his life. I will forever remember him crying on the phone, saying he was scared. That was the only time in my life that I have ever seen my dad actually terrified. He was only 43 and had so much left to give to this world. His version of COVID turned into pneumonia, and that was when I knew that these moments on the phone would be the last. When my mom, sister, and I got the call that he had passed, silence was the only sound. It took my sister and me mere minutes to break down and cry. I personally didn't know what to do or say. It's is comparable to your whole world crumbling. My dad was my whole world. He introduced me to my favorite sport, taught me how to hunt, and even how to keep up things around the house. He was my family's rock. I handled the grief so much differently than my sister and mom. I "got over it" quickly, but really I just pushed it away. I never sat down and communicated my feelings. This led to a long grieving process that is still currently happening. It never goes away, but it gets easier. I stuck to my sports that he taught me because it helped me stay connected to him. I decided that my whole life from that point on was going to be pure hard work just to prove that he would be proud of me. I decided to go into health care so I can be there for someone else if they ever are in a similar situation. I want to help people and I want them to feel safe with me. I have always considered my heart to be a warm place for people in need and I believe going into health care is where I am needed. Hearing my father say he was scared broke me. I know some of my dreams are not achievable, but I never want anyone to be that scared. I never thought I was going to get past this point in my life. Now that I am here, I realized if I can get through something so profoundly devastating, I can get through anything.