I am a first-generation Haitian American woman, proudly connected to my culture while navigating opportunities made possible by being born in the United States. My upbringing has deeply shaped who I am today, especially my identity as a giver. Giving, to me, is more than an action; it is an expression of gratitude, love, and responsibility. When words are not enough, giving becomes a way to show appreciation and care, reinforcing meaningful connections and uplifting those around me. This value of giving back has guided many of my decisions and ultimately influenced my career aspirations. One of the most impactful ways I have served my community was through volunteering at Westside Regional Hospital in Plantation Park, Florida. During the summer of 2019, I volunteered every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday in the Post Anesthesia Care Unit. My responsibilities included transporting patients, sanitizing equipment, and documenting patient information. I also assisted nurses with daily tasks, which allowed me to observe patient care firsthand. This experience introduced me to the structure, discipline, and compassion required in healthcare and confirmed my desire to pursue a career in medicine. Volunteering in the hospital environment opened my eyes to the human side of healthcare. I witnessed patients at vulnerable moments in their lives and learned how empathy and patience can significantly impact their recovery. Helping others during such critical times reinforced my belief that medicine is not only about treating illness, but also about restoring hope. This understanding strengthened my commitment to using my career to create positive change in the lives of others. Beyond hospital volunteering, I also give back by assisting teachers during their breaks whenever they need help. Whether organizing materials or supporting classroom tasks, I value contributing to environments that support learning and growth. These experiences taught me that impact does not always require grand gestures; consistency and willingness to serve can make a meaningful difference. My long-term goal is to become a physician, and my academic journey reflects that commitment. I chose biology because science fuels curiosity and deepens our understanding of how and why the body functions the way it does. Attending Blanche Ely High School and enrolling in anatomy, physiology, and other science-focused courses sparked my passion for the medical field. These classes challenged me intellectually and confirmed that medicine aligns with both my interests and values. Further solidifying my career path, I became a certified Patient Care Technician in the state of Florida. This achievement allowed me to gain hands-on experience in patient care and reinforced my dedication to healthcare service. My interest in neurology developed after completing a seven-page research paper on a neurological disorder for my Anatomy and Physiology class. Studying the brain, one of the most complex and vital organs, fascinated me. The idea of diagnosing neurological conditions and helping patients who may feel hopeless deeply resonates with me. Through my career in medicine, I plan to make a positive impact by serving underserved communities, advocating for compassionate care, and addressing health disparities. As a Haitian American woman in medicine, I hope to inspire others who may not see themselves represented in healthcare. My journey is rooted in service, resilience, and purpose. By combining my passion for science with my commitment to giving back, I aim to build a career that not only heals bodies, but also empowers lives and communities across the world.

Growing up in a low-income household taught me resilience long before I understood the word. With bothdddcx parent balancing multiple responsibilities, I learned early that perseverance was not optional but necessary. Financial limitations meant sacrifices were routine, yet those challenges shaped my work ethic, independence, and determination. Watching my parent push forward despite obstacles inspired me to do the same, even when circumstances felt overwhelming. There were moments when resources were scarce and opportunities felt distant, but those experiences motivated me rather than discouraged me. I learned to value education as a pathway to stability and change. I developed problem-solving skills, adaptability, and patience, understanding that progress often requires persistence over time. Instead of viewing my background as a limitation, I began to see it as a source of strength that prepared me to face adversity with confidence. My life experiences have shaped my desire to make a positive impact in my community and beyond. Having witnessed how lack of access to resources affects families, I am passionate about helping others navigate similar challenges. I plan to use my experiences to advocate for education, health awareness, and community support, particularly for underserved populations. I believe representation and empathy are powerful tools for change. I am actively working toward my goals by pursuing higher education in the sciences with the intention of entering the medical field. Through volunteering, academic dedication, and hands-on healthcare experiences, I am building the skills necessary to serve others effectively. Each step I take is rooted in the determination instilled in me from my upbringing. My journey has taught me that perseverance transforms hardship into purpose, and I am committed to using my story, education, and passion to uplift my community and create opportunities for those who come after me with compassion, integrity, leadership, hope, service.

Legacy, to me, is not measured by wealth, titles, or recognition, but by the values, choices, and impact a person leaves behind. It is the quiet influence that shapes future generations long after our voices are gone. Legacy means being remembered for how you treated others, how you overcame adversity, and how you chose growth over comfort. It is about transforming struggles into lessons and ensuring that what follows you is stronger, healthier, and more hopeful than what came before. My upbringing as a first-generation Haitian American has profoundly shaped my understanding of legacy. I was raised in a household where hard work, resilience, and sacrifice were nonnegotiable. My parents carried the weight of immigrant dreams, often prioritizing survival over self-care. They taught me the importance of perseverance, education, and gratitude, but they also modeled silence around emotional struggles. Mental health was rarely discussed, and vulnerability was often mistaken for weakness. This environment instilled discipline and determination in me, while also teaching me the cost of unaddressed pain. Growing up, I learned to push forward regardless of exhaustion, stress, or fear. While this mindset helped me succeed academically and remain focused on my goals, it also created pressure to be perfect and self-reliant. I often felt responsible for carrying not only my own expectations, but my family’s hopes as well. This shaped my path by making me ambitious and driven, yet it also forced me to confront the need for balance, healing, and self-awareness as I matured. As I grew older, education and exposure helped me recognize both the strengths and limitations of my upbringing. I began to understand that resilience does not require emotional suppression, and strength does not mean suffering in silence. This realization allowed me to redefine what legacy means for me personally. I want to honor my family’s sacrifices while also breaking cycles that no longer serve future generations. I plan to continue the cycle of perseverance, community support, and commitment to education that my family instilled in me. These values have laid the foundation for my academic goals and my aspiration to pursue a career in medicine. At the same time, I am committed to breaking the cycle of emotional silence, stigma surrounding mental health, and neglect of self-care. By prioritizing open communication, seeking help when needed, and encouraging others to do the same, I aim to create a healthier model of success. My vision of legacy is rooted in service and compassion. I want my future career to reflect not only professional achievement, but empathy and advocacy. I hope to be remembered as someone who uplifted others, challenged harmful norms, and created safe spaces for honesty and growth. Whether through medicine, mentorship, or everyday interactions, I want my impact to be meaningful and human-centered. Ultimately, legacy is about intention. It is the conscious decision to learn from the past without being bound by it. My upbringing gave me strength, discipline, and purpose, but my growth has taught me reflection, balance, and courage. By carrying forward the lessons that empower and releasing those that limit, I plan to build a legacy defined not by survival alone, but by healing, progress, and hope for generations to come. In doing so, I recognize that breaking cycles is not rejection of my roots, but evolution of them. It means choosing intentional growth over inherited habits, and compassion over endurance alone. I believe legacy is an active process, shaped daily by accountability and purpose. Through my actions, I aim to leave behind a blueprint that encourages future generations to dream boldly, care deeply, and live fully with confidence always.

As a first-generation Haitian American, I, Marsha Agenor, grew up in a household where resilience, faith, and perseverance were emphasized, but conversations about mental illness were often avoided. In my family, emotional struggles were frequently interpreted as personal weaknesses rather than health concerns. This cultural perspective shaped how mental illness affected both my family and me, teaching me early on how silence can deepen emotional pain while understanding can create healing. Throughout my adolescence and college years, I experienced periods of overwhelming stress, anxiety, and emotional exhaustion. Balancing academics, family expectations, and personal goals often felt suffocating. Because mental health was rarely discussed at home, I initially internalized these struggles, believing I needed to manage everything on my own. Over time, this emotional suppression took a toll, affecting my focus, sleep, and sense of self-worth. Watching family members quietly endure similar struggles reinforced how normalized emotional suffering had become in my household. My family has been deeply affected by this silence. I have seen loved ones carry emotional burdens without support, choosing endurance over expression. Their experiences taught me how untreated mental health challenges can manifest as irritability, withdrawal, or chronic stress. Although my family values strength, I have come to understand that true strength includes acknowledging when help is needed. Recognizing this shift has allowed me to approach my own mental health with more compassion and honesty. To cope with my emotions, I developed healthier strategies that helped me regain control and clarity. Journaling became one of my most effective tools. Writing allows me to process my thoughts, release internal pressure, and reflect on patterns in my emotions. I also rely on a small, trusted group of friends with whom I can speak openly. Their support reminds me that vulnerability fosters connection rather than judgment. Additionally, I utilize free therapy sessions provided by my school, which have been transformative in helping me develop emotional regulation and coping skills. Mental illness is especially prevalent among students, many of whom silently struggle while striving to meet academic and social expectations. My experiences have shown me the importance of accessible mental health resources. Schools play a critical role in addressing this issue by offering counseling services, therapy, and mental health education. Creating safe spaces where students feel validated and supported can change lives, including mine. My passion for the medical field is closely tied to my experiences with mental health. Volunteering at Westside Regional Hospital in Plantation, Florida, during the summer of 2019 exposed me to the realities of patient care. Working in the Post Anesthesia Care Unit taught me discipline, empathy, and the importance of holistic care. Later becoming a Patient Care Technician further reinforced my desire to help patients not only physically, but emotionally as well. I aspire to become a neurologist, driven by my fascination with the brain and its impact on mental and emotional well-being. Studying biology and neuroscience has helped me understand mental illness as a medical condition rather than a personal failing. This knowledge has empowered me to challenge stigma within my family and community. Mental illness has shaped my resilience, empathy, and career aspirations. While it has affected both my family and me through silence and misunderstanding, it has also motivated me to seek healing, education, and advocacy. I am committed to breaking generational stigmas and using my future career in medicine to support individuals and families navigating mental health challenges with compassion and understanding. By sharing my story, I hope to encourage open conversations, normalize seeking help, and inspire others to view mental health as an essential part of overall wellness and human dignity.

Since early on in life, I have patronized the critical positions played by healthcare professionals-the compassionate and technically astute- in an individual and family life. Either being with or caring for a loved one through an illness or watching the community clinics care for underserved populations, I felt driven to be part of an area where science, service, and human ties come together. This call met with my heart and manifested as a sincere passion for healthcare, especially pediatric neurology, wherein I see my empathy, grit, and lived experiences creating permanent change for families in the middle of complicated medical journeys. The notion of choosing a career in healthcare was never just about love for human anatomy or the notion of white coat glamorization; rather, it was about the opportunity to be with someone in their most vulnerable moment. It instills a unique opportunity in healthcare to serve not just the body but also the mind and spirit. Being Haitian-American, I have personally witnessed cultural disparities, lack of resources, and systemic inequalities destined to throw some behind. Instead of discouraging me, they fueled the desire to be part of the solution. At school, I had an intense combination of studying biology and service opportunities. The volunteer time in hospitals and shadowing physicians opened the door to the beauty as well as the harshness of clinical work. What remained more than anything else in my memory were not so much the diagnoses or procedures, but rather the small acts of human kindness: a nurse keeping a patient's grip in a scary moment, giving the patient assurance, a doctor explaining an in-depth diagnosis in layman's terms, and a team coming together to rescue a life. These were the moments that fueled my resolve: I want to be the person who shows up, informs, empowers, and heals. I am aware that as a woman entering the healthcare field, I am entering a space where inequities between genders persist-viz., leadership opportunities, pay, and representation in certain specialties. But I also see this as an opportunity. I intend to use my voice and presence to speak for the advancement of women, particularly young women of color who may not always see themselves reflected in the world of medicine. Representation matters. When patients see someone who looks like them and understands their culture, a sense of trust is built, which leads to better patient outcomes. I hope I can be such a presence for these patients- especially in communities like that of my own background. More specifically, my long-term vision would include practicing at institutions like the Mayo Clinic where I can sharpen my expertise, parallel to that of providing cutting-edge care, and then ultimately setting up my clinic. This clinic must be a safe and welcoming space where families feel heard, respected, and cared for holistically. I would love to become a travel physician, making the rounds in distant or underserved facilities with poor or almost nonexistent access to healthcare. The objectives, after all, are underpinned by the idea that healthcare should never be a privilege but a basic right. As a woman in health care, I bear not only my dreams but the hopes of my community-which I intend to convert from hopes to healing.

As a first-generation Haitian American and a pre-med biology major, I’ve faced many obstacles. Still, one of the most defining challenges in my life has been learning to balance my identity, responsibilities, and dreams in a world where people like me are often underrepresented and underestimated. Navigating college without a blueprint has been difficult, but that adversity shaped me into someone resilient, resourceful, and determined to pave a path for others like me. Growing up in Broward County, Florida, I was raised in a household that valued hard work, faith, and family. My parents came to the United States from Haiti in search of better opportunities for themselves and their children. That sacrifice shaped my understanding of what it means to persevere. While they supported my dreams, they couldn’t offer guidance on how to succeed academically or prepare for a career in medicine. There were no family members I could turn to who had been through college, let alone medical school. In college, I quickly realized I had to learn everything on my own how to build a strong academic record, apply for internships, seek out mentors, and navigate the demanding pre-med curriculum. On top of that, I often felt pressure to succeed not just for myself, but for my family and community. That pressure sometimes became overwhelming. I struggled with time management and procrastination, often prioritizing big assignments while letting smaller tasks pile up. I also battled imposter syndrome, feeling like I didn’t belong in a space where so few looked like me or came from similar backgrounds. The turning point came when I stopped trying to do everything alone. I began asking for help from professors, advisors, and peers. I created a structured study plan and started using academic and mental health resources offered by my university. I also joined support groups for underrepresented students in STEM, which helped me feel less alone. Little by little, I rebuilt my confidence, found better balance, and began to thrive both academically and personally. That adversity taught me the importance of resilience, community, and self-compassion. It also deepened my passion for medicine especially pediatric neurology and strengthened my desire to one day serve as a mentor and advocate for students from underserved communities. My long-term goal is to work at the Mayo Clinic and eventually open my clinic, where I can provide not only healthcare but also education and support for families navigating complex medical and social systems. I even hope to become a travel doctor and provide care in communities around the world that lack adequate access. To anyone facing similar challenges, my advice is this: You don’t have to be perfect to be successful. Progress is more important than perfection. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, and don’t let fear or self-doubt silence your potential. Your background is not a barrier it’s a source of strength. You may not have a traditional path, but that path is uniquely yours, and it is just as valuable. Keep going. You belong and you will accomplish everything you’ve dreamed about.

If given the opportunity, I would improve my community by creating a youth-centered health and mentorship program that bridges education, wellness, and access to care especially for underrepresented and underserved populations. Growing up as a first-generation Haitian American in Broward County, Florida, I witnessed the impact of limited access to culturally competent healthcare and mentorship opportunities. I would focus on filling these gaps because I believe that early intervention both medically and socially can change the entire trajectory of a young person’s life. My vision includes partnering with local schools, clinics, and community centers to launch a program that connects students with medical professionals, college mentors, and wellness resources. The program would provide workshops on health literacy, college readiness, mental health, and nutrition. It would also offer shadowing opportunities and summer internships for students interested in science or medicine. As someone pursuing a career in pediatric neurology, I understand that the foundation of lifelong health begins in childhood and so does the development of confidence, curiosity, and a sense of purpose. This initiative is important to me because I’ve lived the challenges it seeks to address. In my community, I saw many students especially Black and immigrant youth fall behind not because they lacked intelligence, but because they lacked support, guidance, and access. I want to be the mentor I wish I had early on: someone who can say, “You belong here,” whether that’s in a biology lab, a hospital, or a university classroom. Healthcare disparities are also personal to me. I’ve seen how cultural misunderstandings and systemic inequalities lead to missed diagnoses, delayed treatment, and a lack of trust in the medical system. As a future physician, I want to build trust with patients and families by creating programs that respect their culture, educate them on their health, and empower them to take control of their futures. In the long term, I hope to expand this community program into a nonprofit organization that operates in other cities with similar underserved populations. I would love to incorporate mobile clinics, telehealth options, and bilingual resources so that no family is left behind simply because of where they live or what language they speak. Improving my community matters deeply to me because I believe we rise by lifting others. When a child understand their health, see a future in science, or find a mentor who believes in them, it creates a ripple effect. That child grows into an adult who gives back, who uplifts others, and who carries their community forward. My goal is not just to become a doctor, but to be a change-maker a person who doesn’t just treat symptoms, but addresses root causes and heals communities. With the right resources and support, I believe we can create a stronger, healthier, and more empowered generation. That’s the kind of legacy I want to leave not just as a healthcare professional, but as a proud representative of my community and culture.

I chose to pursue biology on the pre-medical track because of my deep passion for healthcare, children, and neuroscience. As a first-generation Haitian American, I’ve always understood the importance of service, community, and resilience. Growing up in Broward County, Florida, I saw firsthand how cultural and economic barriers can affect access to quality medical care, especially for children. This inspired me to not only pursue medicine but to specialize in pediatric neurology. In this field, I can directly impact the lives of young patients and their families through both clinical care and compassionate communication. My short-term goals include completing my undergraduate degree in biology by Fall 2026, securing an internship in the next year, and taking the MCAT. After graduation, I plan to attend Florida International University’s one-year post-baccalaureate program to further prepare for medical school. My top choice is Texas Southern University, where I hope to begin medical school in 2028. I am committed to gaining hands-on experience, strengthening my academic foundation, and building a network of mentors who will help guide me through this journey. My long-term goal is to work at the Mayo Clinic for three to five years, gaining high-level experience in pediatric neurology. From there, I plan to open my clinic to serve underserved communities and eventually become a travel doctor, bringing care to children globally. I want to be the kind of doctor who not only heals but also advocates, especially for those who come from backgrounds like mine where representation and access are limited. Being within an underrepresented minority in medicine drives me to push harder and dream bigger. There are very few Haitian American women in neurology and even a few Black Women doctors, and I want to be part of changing that. Representation matters not just for me, but for the children I will care for. I want them to see someone who looks like them, speaks their language, and understands their cultural background. My identity shapes my approach to medicine; it teaches me empathy, dedication, and the power of education. This scholarship would be a critical financial support in my journey. As a first-generation college student, I carry the weight of educational expenses largely on my own. Balancing school, work, social, and family responsibilities is challenging, and this scholarship would ease the financial burden, allowing me to focus more fully on my academics, clinical experiences, and community service. Every dollar invested in my education helps me take one step closer to becoming a doctor who makes a difference not just in science, but in the lives of real people.

I am a first generation Haitian American. Which means I’m a proud Haitian women just born in the U.S.. One thing about me is I’m an a giver. Giving is vital for a variety of reasons. It's a manner of expressing gratitude, saying thank you, or showing someone you care. It can be difficult to put true thoughts into words, but giving a symbol of appreciation not only expresses your feelings but also lets the receiver know how much you value them. One way I decided to give back to my community is by volunteering at Westside Regional Hospital in Plantation Park, Florida. Every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday during the Summer of 2019 I would volunteer in the Post Anesthesia Care Unit transporting patients, wiping down equipment, and documenting patient information in the medical book designated for that area. I also helped the Post Anethesic Care Unit (PACU) nurses which not only gave me experience but it gave me a first hand glimpse of what my future could potential be. It helped me gain some discipline and structure. Another way I give back is by helping my teachers during their breaks with anything they need help with. My main career goal is to become a doctor. Biology was my personal choice because the main objective of science is to spark our curiosity about why things happen the way they do. Because of this I attended Blanch Ely High School. Going through anatomy and physiology, fundamental of science, and other science and medical course ignited my passion for the medical field. Furthermore, I was able to become a Patient Care Technician (PCT) in the state of Florida. The area I want to specialize in is Neuro. After a research paper ,giving my Anatomy and Physiology teacher, on a neurological disorder assigned to us, it unlocked my true passion and curiosity. The way that brain is one of the most important organs in the body but yet it's the most complex. Having the ability to diagnose, provide treatment, and treat a person who may have lost hope is very fulfilling. Going to hospitals through volunteer work gave me a first hand experience on what life me be like and it took my love to whole different level. Unfortunately during my high school years I suffered from depression and anxiety. Due to this it took a toll on my relationships and friendships. It even got to a point of self harm. I choose to to conceal this and I slowly began to lose myself. It drove me to the lowest point in my life. Because of this I even attempted twice. But my friends knew something was wrong and with help from them and my family, I was able to enroll into therapy and better my mental health.

The best part about finding scholarships is the hope they bring. As a Black woman studying Biology at Bethune Cookman University, it is a relief knowing there is a chance to pay tuition without digging deep into my pockets. It eases the financial strain of college, letting me focus more on my studies. By the time I graduate, my goal is to have at least a 3.5 GPA. I am Marsha Agenor, a first-generation Haitian American. Being a proud Haitian woman born in the U.S., I believe in giving back. Giving is a way to show gratitude and care. One way I give back is by volunteering at Westside Regional Hospital in Plantation Park, Florida. During the summer of 2019, I volunteered in the Post Anesthesia Care Unit, transporting patients, wiping down equipment, and documenting patient information. This experience gave me a glimpse of my future and helped me gain discipline and structure. As a junior attending Bethune Cookman University, I am committed to my studies in Biology. However, my family and I often struggle to meet the financial demands of my education. This scholarship will be a lifeline, easing that burden and allowing me to focus more fully on my academic pursuits. I plan to use the funds to pay for tuition, textbooks, and other necessary resources. It will also provide me the opportunity to delve deeper into my major, without the constant worry of financial strain. I am determined to succeed, and this scholarship will be vital in helping me achieve my academic goals. As a black woman in the field of Biology, I aim to make a significant impact and this scholarship will greatly aid me in that journey. My main career goal is to become a doctor, specializing in neurology. After writing a detailed essay on a neurological disorder for my Anatomy and Physiology class, I discovered my passion for the brain's complexity. Volunteering at hospitals confirmed my love for the medical field. This scholarship would help me focus on my studies and achieve my dream of becoming a neurologist. In conclusion, my experiences as a first-generation Haitian American, my commitment to giving back, and my passion for the medical field have shaped my career goals. I am dedicated to becoming a doctor, specializing in neurology, and making a difference in people's lives. I believe that the Capital Auto Auction Annual Scholarship will help me achieve these goals by providing the financial support I need to continue my education and pursue my dreams. Thank you for considering my application.

The 8 attributes of Black Excellence establishes the ideas of honoring and celebrating the outstanding accomplishments, morals, and cultural contributions of Black individuals and communities, especially in the face of past and present hardship. It frequently represents a comprehensive strategy for achieving success on all levels including: personal, social, and professional; embracing both observable achievements and intangible attributes.Taking calculated risks is an essential skill for personal and professional growth, as it fosters innovation, resilience, and success. One attribute that I believe is my greatest area for improvement is to dare to take calculated risks. To improve in this area, it is important to adopt a multi-step plan that includes self-awareness, education, preparation, and reflection. Careful planning and investigation are necessary before taking calculated risks. I need to gather as much information as I can before deciding to take a big risk. Research the industry, job market trends, necessary abilities, and probable obstacles. It's also beneficial to learn from those who have had to make comparable choices. Looking for mentors and/or specialists in the field who can offer guidance and share their experiences and struggles is beneficial . By taking this step, I can make sure that my risks are well-informed and grounded in facts rather than conjecture or intuition. Additionally, seeking multiple perspectives will allow me to broaden my understanding and anticipate challenges I might not have considered on my own. The capacity to balance the prospective benefits against the potential drawbacks is a sign of a well-calculated risk. Prior to proceeding, assess the potential consequences of my choice. Think about the worst-case and best-case situations, as well as how I might lessen any unfavorable effects. You can determine whether the possible gain outweighs the danger you are contemplating by using this risk assessment. Starting small and then raising the stakes as I gain experience is one of the finest strategies to help me become more adept at taking measured risks. I can start by taking chances in less important aspects of my life, like trying out a new pastime, taking on a difficult job at work, or interacting with people I've never met before. Take more risks and step outside your comfort zone as I succeed. In conclusion, increasing my capacity for measured risk-taking necessitates a dedication to introspection, research, cautious evaluation, progressive exposure, and self-awareness. I can improve my decision-making abilities, raise my odds of success, and strengthen my ability to bounce back from failures by sticking to this plan.

My main career goal is to become a doctor. The university where I attend to enhance my education is Bethune-Cookman. The major required to become a neurologist is not specified. Biology was my personal choice because the main objective of science is to spark our curiosity about why things happen the way they do. Being black means to me, not only the color of your skin, but the heritage that it came with. It shows the many slaves and slave families who fought for their lives and survived and for those who went through segregation and discrimination, just for looking a certain way. Being black means that we may be able to carry out their legacies and family names of those who fought for their freedom. Attending an HBCU not only will give me a sense of empowerment but also help better understand my own people in more than one way. The way i believe is to help break as many medical stereotypes as possible. In addition attending amd HBCU will also allow my to build and have a sense of community that will not only build me up in times of need but also have an everlasting effect on my life.

Traveling can be a transformative experience for any individual because it allows you to experience what different cultures are like and their perspectives on joy, healthcare, food, and other opinions. This could also open one’s eyes to how different routes and directions may lead to the same outcome, if not a better one. As a first-generation Haitian American, I have always been curious about the world beyond my immediate surroundings. Growing up in a Haitian household in the U.S., I was exposed to a rich culture full of unique traditions and values. However, I knew that there was so much more to learn and experience. This curiosity has fueled my desire to travel and understand other cultures and perspectives. One way I decided to give back to my community is by volunteering at Westside Regional Hospital in Plantation Park, Florida. Every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday during the summer of 2019, I volunteered in the Post Anesthesia Care Unit. I transported patients, wiped down equipment, and documented patient information. This experience not only gave me a glimpse into my future career but also taught me discipline and structure. It showed me the importance of healthcare and how different cultures approach it. Traveling to different places and meeting people from various backgrounds can lead to personal growth and development. For example, by volunteering at the hospital, I met patients and staff from diverse backgrounds. I learned about their experiences and perspectives on healthcare. This exposure broadened my understanding of how different cultures approach medical treatment and patient care. It also reinforced my passion for becoming a doctor. My main career goal is to become a doctor, specializing in neurology. Studying biology and other science courses at Blanche Ely High School ignited my passion for the medical field. Writing a seven-page essay on a neurological disorder for my Anatomy and Physiology class unlocked my true curiosity about the brain. The brain is one of the most important yet complex organs in the body. The idea of diagnosing and treating someone who may have lost hope is very fulfilling to me. Traveling and experiencing different cultures can be transformative. It can open your eyes to new perspectives and ways of thinking. For me, it has reinforced my passion for healthcare and my desire to give back to my community. The Combined Worlds Scholarship would allow me to continue my journey of personal growth and development through travel and exposure to different cultures.

As a young adult, you think you are invincible but life comes with many obstacles, as well as many lessons to be learned. The main three obstacles that I had to overcome were grief, mental health, and finances. During Covid, I lost many people, but the loss of my 17-year-old cousin is what truly changed my way of seeing the world. Hearing the news, it felt like the world went mute and my heart skipped a beat. 2 weeks before her passing I was able to tell her that I loved her and see her smile for the last time. Since my eighth grade year in middle school to now I have struggled with mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. Though I have had therapy throughout the years going to college and being away from family and friends in the life I know scared me. Being in a new environment in which I have no prior knowledge of how things worked, as well as taking courses at a different level and intensity, gave me the fear of failing. The biggest obstacle, which I feel like many students face is financial. But don’t Cookman is the current college in which I am attending and tuition is well over $30,000. Don’t get many scholarships. There is still some money that I have in which I have to pay every semester. Knowing, this made me fall back on which school I was going to attend because of the fear of having to put that financial strain on my family. After I lost her I made it my mission to graduate high school with the highest GPA I can get and get into an excellent college and get my degree. She wasn’t able to graduate high school and go to college like she wanted to, but her legacy and memories are what push and drive me to be the best I can be. When it comes to financial and mental health issues pushed me to attend an HBCU as well as be an advocate for black women and people of color everywhere who struggle through the situation. I was blessed enough to have an amazing family who can help me pay for my semester in college as well as help me with my mental health. This will forever motivate me to continue my education and not only make them proud but make myself proud.

One type of technology that is fairly new and inspires me is robotic-assisted surgery Robotic-assisted surgery is a form of minimally invasive surgery where surgeons utilize extremely small surgical instruments that are inserted into a patient's body through a series of very small incisions. As a result of these devices being installed on three robotic arms, a surgeon has the greatest possible range and control of motion while carrying out the treatment. During the surgery, the surgeon is guided with a high-definition, three-dimensional camera that improves visualization by ten times magnifying the body's tissue and architecture. Robotic surgery has a lower risk of surgical trauma, leaves fewer scars, and has a quicker recovery time than open surgery if the patient is correctly chosen. In robotic surgery, your surgeon "directs" the procedure from a nearby location rather than standing over you as in regular surgery. even though every operation is unique Having a robotically assisted surgery has several advantages. Shorter recovery time and improved visualization for the surgeon result in a more precise procedure, both of which are advantages of robotic surgery for you. Added advantages The range of motion and dexterity of your surgeon is higher. When your surgeon views the operating field in a highly enlarged, high-resolution image, The area being operated on can be reached more easily by your surgeon. surgery with fewer complications, reduced hospital stay Less blood loss and transfusions, lower risk of infection fewer aches, quicker healing, and faster return to daily activities. The way that this technology can make the world a better place by minimizing the risk of mistakes during surgery. This can happen by being less likely to hit nerves, veins, or other vital organs during surgery. Alternatively, many people may say that the use of robotic-assisted surgeries may one day cause a shortage of surgeons in the future, I believe this will allow us to grow, and be able to save more lives more precisely without having to have numerous surgeries on a single person. Furthermore, this will allow the next generation of surgeons to be able to offer more solutions with a better result

My main career goal is to become a doctor. The university where I wish to enhance my education is Bethune-Cookman. The major required to become a neurologist is not specified. Biology was my personal choice because the main objective of science is to spark our curiosity about why things happen the way they do. Attending an HBCU not only will give me a sense of empowerment but also help me better understand my people in more than one way. The way I believe is to help break as many medical stereotypes as possible. Education is important because it can create a firm foundation for a person’s life. With a good and/or high education a person can have many opportunities to get a higher-paying job. Also, it’s important because with an education, a person can have a better understanding of the world and how it works. With an education, a person wouldn’t have to struggle to get what they want like a good job and they will be able to pass on their knowledge to the next generation of learners/ consumers. Growing up in a family full of nurses, doctors, and surgeons having an interest in the medical field is all I ever wanted. When Blanche Ely's medical magnet program reached out to me, I knew that this would help me with my decision. Going through anatomy and physiology, fundamentals of science and other science and medical course ignited my passion for the medical field. During my sophomore year, I decided to volunteer at Westside Regional Health Center. I was helping the Post Anethesic Care Unit (PACU) nurses which not only gave me experience but it gave me a first-hand glimpse of what my future could potentially be. It helped me gain some discipline and structure. Giving is vital for a variety of reasons. It's a manner of expressing gratitude, saying thank you, or showing someone you care. It can be difficult to put true thoughts into words, but giving a symbol of appreciation not only expresses your feelings but also lets the receiver know how much you value them. Many people we encounter in our daily lives, such as neighbors, coworkers, even mail carriers, or the local grocery store clerk, may help to make our lives easier. While giving does not necessarily have to be in the form of a present, a kind word or a kind smile can go a long way toward saying thank you for everything you do, and can also help to foster a friendly and successful relationship. Giving is an important character characteristic to instill in youngsters. For example, if a child assists in the selection of a gift for a family member's birthday and then presents the gift to them, it teaches them to be selfless, to share, and to appreciate the joy of giving to others.

As a black Haitian American woman, I know a lot about it. You have things coming at you from all sides – colorism, racism, sexism, stereotypes – and these things cause pain. Black people get sicker and die earlier than other races. For example, black women are three times more prone to death after childbirth. Yet, when black women tell their doctors they're in pain, they’re not taken seriously. We as black women are getting inferior medical care because we are seen incorrectly as more aggressive and tougher than everyone else. Sadly we can’t erase these stereotypes but we can fight the problem by having more black women working in hospitals. If black doctors are caring for black people, then patients will feel more comfortable, and the doctors won’t turn to the stereotypes that black women don’t feel pain or that they are nothing more than their sexuality. Having black people practicing medicine not only helps fight stereotypes but strengthens the black community. Growing up, I didn't see many black doctors but when I did, I remember connecting with them and answering questions about their experiences in the medical field. One common thing they would all say was when they met another black person, who was also studying medicine, the bond that they would make was incredible. I believe having diversity and representation in medical fields and STEM careers are fundamental to making STEM careers more open and comfortable for us all. Even though the number of women getting computer science degrees has increased over the last two decades, women still account for only 19% of bachelor's degrees in the field. Over the last two decades, the number of underrepresented minorities (Hispanic, Latino, Black, African American, American Indian, or Alaska Native individuals) receiving bachelor's and Ph.D. degrees in science and engineering has also increased. Even so, just 22% of bachelor's degrees in science and engineering go to students from underrepresented minority groups, and only 9% of doctorates go to students from such groups. Dissuading women and people of color from pursuing STEM careers exacerbates a larger wage disparity problem. According to PayScale, a software and data startup based in the United States that helps employers manage employee remuneration and employees understand their worth, analysis of male professionals with at least a bachelor's degree, Black people earn $0.87 for every dollar earned by white people. PayScale found that women earn $0.81 for every dollar earned by males across all industries. Teachers and school officials can't address all of the variables that contribute to a lack of diversity in STEM areas and injustices faced by historically excluded groups. Educational leaders, on the other hand, can ensure that all students are given the same support and incentive to pursue STEM education.

My main career goal is to become a doctor. The university where I wish to enhance my education is Bethune-Cookman. The major required to become a neurologist is not specified. Biology was my personal choice because the main objective of science is to spark our curiosity about why things happen the way they do. Attending an HBCU not only will give me a sense of empowerment but also help better understand my own people in more than one way. The way i believe is to help break as many medical stereotypes as possible. In addition attending amd HBCU will also allow my to build and have a sense of community that will not only build me up in times of need but also have an everlasting effect on my life.

STEM professions deal with difficult issues that benefit from a variety of viewpoints. Failure to encourage and support all students interested in science and technology studies deprives those sectors of great talent. Examining the causes and consequences of underrepresentation in STEM shows how important educators can be in fostering diversity in the field. Despite the fact that the number of women getting computer science degrees has increased over the last two decades, women still account for only 19% of bachelor's degrees in the field. Over the last two decades, the number of underrepresented minorities (Hispanic, Latino, Black, African American, American Indian, or Alaska Native individuals) receiving bachelor's and Ph.D. degrees in science and engineering has also increased. Even so, just 22% of bachelor's degrees in science and engineering go to students from underrepresented minority groups, and only 9% of doctorates go to students from such groups. Dissuading women and people of color from pursuing STEM careers exacerbates a larger wage disparity problem. According to PayScale, a software and data startup based in the United States that helps employers manage employee remuneration and employees understand their worth, analysis of male professionals with at least a bachelor's degree, Black people earn $0.87 for every dollar earned by white people. PayScale found that women earn $0.81 for every dollar earned by males across all industries. Teachers and school officials can't address all of the variables that contribute to a lack of diversity in STEM areas and injustices faced by historically excluded groups. Educational leaders, on the other hand, can ensure that all students are given the same support and incenti8ve to pursue STEM education. Furthermore, the lack of diversity has caused many false ideologies (many about black women). Many doctors believe that black women when they say that they’re in pain and/or suffering. Many celebrities like Serena Williams has unfortunately been dismissed or ignored by medical professional in regards to pain during labor and childbirth. Many believe because people when through slavery and were whipped and raped on a daily basis, our pain tolerance is much high than that of a Caucasian person. Having black people and other people of color in STEM-related fields can and will put these ideologies to rest. According to a 2000 Emory University research, 74 percent of white patients with bone fractures received opioids at an Atlanta hospital emergency department, compared to 50 percent of black patients. Similarly, a study published last year indicated that black children with appendicitis were less likely than white children to receive pain treatment. In a 2007 study, doctors were found to be more prone than other patients to underestimate the suffering of black patients.

Giving is vital for a variety of reasons. It's a manner of expressing gratitude, saying thank you, or showing someone you care. It can be difficult to put true thoughts into words, but giving a symbol of appreciation not only expresses your feelings but also lets the receiver know how much you value them. Many people we encounter in our daily lives, such as neighbors, coworkers, even mail carriers, or the local grocery store clerk, may help to make our lives easier. While giving does not necessarily have to be in the form of a present, a kind word or a kind smile can go a long way toward saying thank you for everything you do, and can also help to foster a friendly and successful relationship. Giving is an important character characteristic to instill in youngsters. For example, if a child assists in the selection of a gift for a family member's birthday and then presents the gift to them, it teaches them to be selfless, to share, and to appreciate the joy of giving to others. One way I decided to give back to my community is by volunteering at Westside Reginal Hospital in Plantation Park, Florida. Every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday during the Summer of 2019 I would volunteer in the Post Anesthesia Care Unit transporting patients, wiping down equipment, and documenting patient information in the medical book designated for that area. Another way I give back is by helping my teachers during their breaks with anything they need help with.

As teenager you think you invincible but the fact of the matter is your not and losing someone close to me in the matter of days just shows that you have to always appreciate those around you. During Covid I lost many people, but the lost of my 17 year old cousin is what truly changed my way of seeing the world. Hearing the news, it felt like the world went mute and my heart skipping beats. 2 weeks before her passing I was able to tell her that I loved her and see her smile for last time. After I losing her I made it my mission to graduate high school with the highest GPA I can get and get into an excellent college and get my degree. She wasn’t able to graduate high school and go to college like she wanted to, but her legacy and memories are what push and drive me to be the best I can. Every time I think of her it reminds me of my ultimate goal, to be the first and only black female neurologist to find the cure for Alzheimer’s or Schizophrenia (with a team of course). I know she watching down on me and I hope I’m making her proud.