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Melissa Medinilla

1,955

Bold Points

1x

Finalist

Bio

My name is Melissa Medinilla, I was born in Cuba and came to the United States when I was just 10 years old, I currently live in Miami Florida, and attend Nova Southeastern University. I am a Biology Major, with a future goal of pursuing Dentistry. As a Hispanic student, I understand the importance of education in shaping my future and achieving my goals. My parents worked hard to provide me with a better future by leaving their corrupted country, and I want to make the most of the opportunities they have given me. I want to help the hispanic community face barriers to accessing quality dental care, such as lack of insurance, language barriers, and cultural differences. As a dentist, one can bridge these gaps by providing culturally sensitive care and communication, making dental services more accessible to the Hispanic community. I also want to serve as a role model for the Hispanic community, inspiring and encouraging young Hispanics to pursue careers in dentistry and other healthcare fields. Winning a scholarship is an essential achievement for me. It would provide me with financial support, recognition, and motivation to continue my academic journey. It would also honor my parents' sacrifices and demonstrate the value of education in shaping a better future for myself and my family.

Education

Nova Southeastern University

Associate's degree program
2022 - 2026
  • Majors:
    • Dentistry
  • Minors:
    • Biology, General
  • GPA:
    3

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Doctoral degree program (PhD, MD, JD, etc.)

  • Graduate schools of interest:

  • Transfer schools of interest:

  • Majors of interest:

    • Biology, General
    • Health and Medical Administrative Services
    • Medicine
  • Planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Dentistry

    • Dream career goals:

    • I am an intern at a dental office in order to learn more about what is like being a dentist and working on this field. I help out with everything I can to gain experience.

      Dental Office
      2022 – Present2 years

    Sports

    Volleyball

    Club
    2019 – 20201 year

    Dancing

    Club
    2018 – 20213 years

    Research

    • Health and Medical Administrative Services

      Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine (NSU-KPCOM) — My role was to learn more about different types of KPCOM technology and how they can improve our medical field in many different ways. Technologies such as High Fidelity Robotic-Manikins and 3D Organon VR.
      2022 – 2023

    Arts

    • Photography
      2020 – Present

    Public services

    • Volunteering

      Spanish Honor Society — As an active member I have greatly impacted students to join our community, we have created social groups in order to help Latin American countries.
      2019 – 2023
    • Volunteering

      Spanish Honor Society
      2019 – Present

    Future Interests

    Volunteering

    Phoenix Opportunity Award
    From discovering fascinating cultures to idolizing social trends, moving could be said by many, a blessing. As an immigrant child myself, the pressure of having to work hard to succeed in a way my parents never had the opportunity to have never been a second-hand thought in my mind. I am so fortunate by far to learn from such captivating diversity, learning how people act in distinct parts of the world and how significantly different we may seem, yet how similar we can be without even knowing. Battling cultural shock, Language Barriers, Misconceptions of Homeland, and culture, and even the level of acceptance or rejection of the immigrant, are all the challenges we face when arriving in a new country. Since early childhood, my parents strongly urged me to prioritize school more than anything else, not wanting me to struggle as they did. They have made me realize the importance of pursuing a higher education, which was something they did not have the opportunity to do. It is essential to them that I not only pursue an education or get a degree but have a career that I genuinely love. Being the first generation to graduate and able to obtain a degree in my family is what gives me the motivation to strive for success. Coming from a country that suppresses opportunities has greatly influenced my work ethic, this shapes me as a student that aspires for more, always wanting to challenge myself for the better. Graduating college as a biology major and pursuing dentistry in the future is my number one priority at the moment. After I obtain my degree in dentistry, I want to be able to help the Hispanic community. Many Hispanic individuals face barriers to accessing quality dental care, such as lack of insurance, language barriers, and cultural differences. As a dentist, one can bridge these gaps by providing culturally sensitive care and communication, making dental services more accessible to the Hispanic community. A dentist can use their position to advocate for policies that improve access to dental care for the Hispanic community, such as supporting programs that provide free or low-cost dental services, advocating for bilingual dental education and training, and promoting community outreach programs. Lastly, a dentist can serve as a role model for the Hispanic community, inspiring and encouraging young Hispanics to pursue careers in dentistry and other healthcare fields.
    Michael Rudometkin Memorial Scholarship
    Selflessness is a virtue that transcends boundaries and fosters a deep sense of community and compassion. Throughout my four years of active participation in the Spanish Honor Society, I have learned invaluable lessons about embodying selflessness. As a Hispanic student, this society has provided me with a platform to share my culture and beliefs while engaging in acts of service that positively impact the lives of others. By creating social groups and organizing donations for Latin American countries, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of selflessness. Moreover, I believe that obtaining an education that nurtures personal growth and allows me to utilize my abilities has further fueled my passion for serving others. Selflessness goes beyond mere acts of kindness; it is a mindset and a way of life. It involves placing the needs and well-being of others before our own, striving to make a positive difference in their lives. By embracing selflessness, we develop empathy, compassion, and a sense of responsibility toward others. It encourages us to look beyond our immediate surroundings and extend our support to those who are less fortunate, irrespective of cultural or geographical boundaries. The Spanish Honor Society holds great significance for Hispanics as it provides a space to celebrate our heritage and values while fostering a sense of belonging. Within this community, I have witnessed the power of unity and collective action. By engaging in various cultural activities, sharing traditions, and organizing events, we create an environment that promotes understanding and appreciation of diverse backgrounds. Through these activities, we have inspired many students to join our society, thereby expanding the reach and impact of our community. In my role as an active member of the Spanish Honor Society, we have taken collective action to support Latin American countries in need. By forming social groups, we have been able to mobilize resources and raise funds to make a meaningful impact. Through donations, we have not only provided necessary aid but also facilitated access to resources that may be unavailable to these communities. As an immigrant student myself I understand the hardships students in these countries face on a daily. Education lacks in many of these countries and being able to provide materials to help them is the greatest gift. This selfless act of giving has enabled us to contribute to their well-being and bring about positive change in their lives. Embodying selflessness requires a genuine commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of others. My experience with the Spanish Honor Society has taught me the profound value of community involvement, cultural celebration, and acts of service. By creating social groups and organizing donations for Latin American countries, we have witnessed the transformative power of selflessness firsthand. Furthermore, education has played a crucial role in nurturing my passion for service, empowering me to use my abilities for the betterment of others. As we continue our journey, let us strive to embody selflessness, inspiring others to join us in creating a more caring and compassionate world. Lastly, winning a scholarship would benefit my family as well. It would demonstrate to them the value of education and the potential for success through hard work and dedication. It would also give them pride and inspiration in knowing that their sacrifices have contributed to my success.
    Doña Lupita Immigrant Scholarship
    Leaving one's home country can be a daunting decision, but for a single mother seeking a better life for herself and her daughter, it can be a necessary and courageous step. The decision to uproot one's life, leave behind family and friends, and venture into the unknown takes strength and resilience. However, with the hope of a brighter future, the journey can be a transformative one. From discovering fascinating cultures to idolizing social trends, moving could be said by many, a blessing. As an immigrant child myself, the pressure of having to work hard to succeed in a way my mother never had the opportunity to has never been a second-hand thought in my mind. I learned English when I came to this country at 10 years old. I am so fortunate by far to learn from such captivating diversity, learning how people act in distinct parts of the world and how significantly different we may seem, yet how similar we can be without even knowing. Starting anew in a foreign land can bring about challenges such as language barriers, cultural differences, and financial struggles. But with determination and a supportive community, the experience can also be enriching and empowering. Seeing my life drastically change from one average flight, the popular principle of rapid adaptation is concealed in my consciousness. One may find this abnormal, but the reality is that all immigrant children face this certainty. Battling cultural shock, Language Barriers, Misconceptions of Homeland, and culture, and even the level of acceptance or rejection of the immigrant, are all the challenges we face when arriving in a new country. Since early childhood, my mother always strongly urged me to prioritize school more than anything else, not wanting me to struggle as she did. She has made me realize the importance of pursuing a higher education, which was something she did not have the opportunity to do. It is essential to them that I not only pursue an education or get a degree but have a career that I genuinely love. Being the first generation to graduate and able to obtain a degree in my family is what gives me the motivation to strive for success. Coming from a country that suppresses opportunities has greatly influenced my work ethic, this shapes me as a student that aspires for more, always wanting to challenge myself for the better. Graduating college as a biology major and pursuing dentistry in the future is my number one priority at the moment, although my ambitious character reveals in this conceptual focus, the penetrating strives to understand and learn inspires my learning and encourages progression. After I obtain my degree in dentistry, I want to be able to help the Hispanic community. Many Hispanic individuals face barriers to accessing quality dental care, such as lack of insurance, language barriers, and cultural differences. As a dentist, one can bridge these gaps by providing culturally sensitive care and communication, making dental services more accessible to the Hispanic community. Moreover, a dentist can use their position to advocate for policies that improve access to dental care for the Hispanic community, such as supporting programs that provide free or low-cost dental services, advocating for bilingual dental education and training, and promoting community outreach programs. Lastly, a dentist can serve as a role model for the Hispanic community, inspiring and encouraging young Hispanics to pursue careers in dentistry and other healthcare fields.
    Connie Konatsotis Scholarship
    From discovering fascinating cultures to idolizing social trends, moving could be said by many, a blessing. As an immigrant child myself, the pressure of having to work hard to succeed in a way my parents never had the opportunity to have never been a second-hand thought in my mind. I learned English when I came to this country at 10 years old. I am so fortunate by far to learn from such captivating diversity, learning how people act in distinct parts of the world and how significantly different we may seem, yet how similar we can be without even knowing. Seeing my life drastically change from one average flight, the popular principle of rapid adaptation is concealed in my consciousness. One may find this abnormal, but the reality is that all immigrant children face this certainty. Battling cultural shock, Language Barriers, Misconceptions of Homeland, and culture, and even the level of acceptance or rejection of the immigrant, are all the challenges we face when arriving in a new country. Since early childhood, my parents strongly urged me to prioritize school more than anything else, not wanting me to struggle as they did. They have made me realize the importance of pursuing a higher education, which was something they did not have the opportunity to do. It is essential to them that I not only pursue an education or get a degree but have a career that I genuinely love. Being the first generation to graduate and able to obtain a degree in my family is what gives me the motivation to strive for success. Coming from a country that suppresses opportunities has greatly influenced my work ethic, this shapes me as a student that aspires for more, always wanting to challenge myself for the better. The interdisciplinary nature of STEAM encourages critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills, which are essential for success in any field. STEAM provides an exciting and diverse learning experience that can help you discover your passions and prepare you for a fulfilling career. Therefore, graduating college as a biology major and pursuing dentistry in the future is my number one priority at the moment, although my ambitious character reveals in this conceptual focus, the penetrating strives to understand and learn inspires my learning and encourages progression. After I obtain my degree in dentistry, I want to be able to help the Hispanic community. Many Hispanic individuals face barriers to accessing quality dental care, such as lack of insurance, language barriers, and cultural differences. As a dentist, one can bridge these gaps by providing culturally sensitive care and communication, making dental services more accessible to the Hispanic community. Moreover, a dentist can use their position to advocate for policies that improve access to dental care for the Hispanic community, such as supporting programs that provide free or low-cost dental services, advocating for bilingual dental education and training, and promoting community outreach programs. STEAM encompasses a wide range of subjects that allow the Hispanic community to explore and develop their skills in different areas. Whether you are interested in coding, robotics, art, or design, there is something for everyone in STEAM. With that being said, a dentist can serve as a role model for the Hispanic community, inspiring and encouraging young Hispanics to pursue careers in dentistry and other healthcare fields.
    Christina Taylese Singh Memorial Scholarship
    From discovering fascinating cultures to idolizing social trends, moving could be said by many, a blessing. As an immigrant child myself, the pressure of having to work hard to succeed in a way my parents never had the opportunity to have never been a second-hand thought in my mind. I learned English when I came to this country at 10 years old. I am so fortunate by far to learn from such captivating diversity, learning how people act in distinct parts of the world and how significantly different we may seem, yet how similar we can be without even knowing. Seeing my life drastically change from one average flight, the popular principle of rapid adaptation is concealed in my consciousness. One may find this abnormal, but the reality is that all immigrant children face this certainty. Battling cultural shock, Language Barriers, Misconceptions of Homeland, and culture, and even the level of acceptance or rejection of the immigrant, are all the challenges we face when arriving in a new country. Since early childhood, my parents strongly urged me to prioritize school more than anything else, not wanting me to struggle as they did. They have made me realize the importance of pursuing a higher education, which was something they did not have the opportunity to do. It is essential to them that I not only pursue an education or get a degree but have a career that I genuinely love. Being the first generation to graduate and able to obtain a degree in my family is what gives me the motivation to strive for success. Coming from a country that suppresses opportunities has greatly influenced my work ethic, this shapes me as a student that aspires for more, always wanting to challenge myself for the better. Graduating college as a biology major and pursuing dentistry in the future is my number one priority at the moment, although my ambitious character reveals in this conceptual focus, the penetrating strives to understand and learn inspires my learning and encourages progression. After I obtain my degree in dentistry, I want to be able to help the Hispanic community. Many Hispanic individuals face barriers to accessing quality dental care, such as lack of insurance, language barriers, and cultural differences. As a dentist, one can bridge these gaps by providing culturally sensitive care and communication, making dental services more accessible to the Hispanic community. Moreover, a dentist can use their position to advocate for policies that improve access to dental care for the Hispanic community, such as supporting programs that provide free or low-cost dental services, advocating for bilingual dental education and training, and promoting community outreach programs. Lastly, a dentist can serve as a role model for the Hispanic community, inspiring and encouraging young Hispanics to pursue careers in dentistry and other healthcare fields.
    Rose Ifebigh Memorial Scholarship
    Leaving one's home country can be a daunting decision, but for a single mother seeking a better life for herself and her daughter, it can be a necessary and courageous step. The decision to uproot one's life, leave behind family and friends, and venture into the unknown takes strength and resilience. However, with the hope of a brighter future, the journey can be a transformative one. From discovering fascinating cultures to idolizing social trends, moving could be said by many, a blessing. As an immigrant child myself, the pressure of having to work hard to succeed in a way my mother never had the opportunity to has never been a second-hand thought in my mind. I learned English when I came to this country at 10 years old. I am so fortunate by far to learn from such captivating diversity, learning how people act in distinct parts of the world and how significantly different we may seem, yet how similar we can be without even knowing. Seeing my life drastically change from one average flight, the popular principle of rapid adaptation is concealed in my consciousness. One may find this abnormal, but the reality is that all immigrant children face this certainty. Battling cultural shock, Language Barriers, Misconceptions of Homeland, and culture, and even the level of acceptance or rejection of the immigrant, are all the challenges we face when arriving in a new country. Since early childhood, my mother strongly urged me to prioritize school more than anything else, not wanting me to struggle as she did. She has made me realize the importance of pursuing a higher education, which was something she did not have the opportunity to do. It is essential to her that I not only pursue an education or get a degree but have a career that I genuinely love. Being the first generation to graduate and able to obtain a degree in my family is what gives me the motivation to strive for success. Coming from a country that suppresses opportunities has greatly influenced my work ethic, this shapes me as a student that aspires for more, always wanting to challenge myself for the better. Graduating college as a biology major and pursuing dentistry in the future is my number one priority at the moment, although my ambitious character reveals in this conceptual focus, the penetrating strives to understand and learn inspires my learning and encourages progression. After I obtain my degree in dentistry, I want to be able to help the Hispanic community. Many Hispanic individuals face barriers to accessing quality dental care, such as lack of insurance, language barriers, and cultural differences. As a dentist, one can bridge these gaps by providing culturally sensitive care and communication, making dental services more accessible to the Hispanic community. Moreover, a dentist can use their position to advocate for policies that improve access to dental care for the Hispanic community, such as supporting programs that provide free or low-cost dental services, advocating for bilingual dental education and training, and promoting community outreach programs. Lastly, a dentist can serve as a role model for the Hispanic community, inspiring and encouraging young Hispanics to pursue careers in dentistry and other healthcare fields.
    La Santana Scholarship
    From discovering fascinating cultures to idolizing social trends, moving could be said by many, a blessing. As an immigrant child myself, the pressure of having to work hard to succeed in a way my parents never had the opportunity to have never been a second-hand thought in my mind. I learned English when I came to this country at 10 years old. I am so fortunate by far to learn from such captivating diversity, learning how people act in distinct parts of the world and how significantly different we may seem, yet how similar we can be without even knowing. Seeing my life drastically change from one average flight, the popular principle of rapid adaptation is concealed in my consciousness. One may find this abnormal, but the reality is that all immigrant children face this certainty. Battling cultural shock, Language Barriers, Misconceptions of Homeland, and culture, and even the level of acceptance or rejection of the immigrant, are all the challenges we face when arriving in a new country. Since early childhood, my parents strongly urged me to prioritize school more than anything else, not wanting me to struggle as they did. They have made me realize the importance of pursuing a higher education, which was something they did not have the opportunity to do. It is essential to them that I not only pursue an education or get a degree but have a career that I genuinely love. Being the first generation to graduate and able to obtain a degree in my family is what gives me the motivation to strive for success. Coming from a country that suppresses opportunities has greatly influenced my work ethic, this shapes me as a student that aspires for more, always wanting to challenge myself for the better. Graduating college as a biology major and pursuing dentistry in the future is my number one priority at the moment, although my ambitious character reveals in this conceptual focus, the penetrating strives to understand and learn inspires my learning and encourages progression. After I obtain my degree in dentistry, I want to be able to help the Hispanic community. Many Hispanic individuals face barriers to accessing quality dental care, such as lack of insurance, language barriers, and cultural differences. As a dentist, one can bridge these gaps by providing culturally sensitive care and communication, making dental services more accessible to the Hispanic community. Moreover, a dentist can use their position to advocate for policies that improve access to dental care for the Hispanic community, such as supporting programs that provide free or low-cost dental services, advocating for bilingual dental education and training, and promoting community outreach programs. Lastly, a dentist can serve as a role model for the Hispanic community, inspiring and encouraging young Hispanics to pursue careers in dentistry and other healthcare fields.
    Ruebenna Greenfield Flack Scholarship
    Leaving one's home country can be a daunting decision, but for a single mother seeking a better life for herself and her daughter, it can be a necessary and courageous step. The decision to uproot one's life, leave behind family and friends, and venture into the unknown takes strength and resilience. However, with the hope of a brighter future, the journey can be a transformative one. From discovering fascinating cultures to idolizing social trends, moving could be said by many, a blessing. As an immigrant child, the pressure of having to work hard to succeed in a way my mother never had the opportunity to has never been a second-hand thought in my mind. I learned English when I came to this country at 10 years old. I am so fortunate by far to learn from such captivating diversity, learning how people act in distinct parts of the world and how significantly different we may seem, yet how similar we can be without even knowing. Seeing my life drastically change from one average flight, the popular principle of rapid adaptation is concealed in my consciousness. One may find this abnormal, but the reality is that all immigrant children face this certainty. Battling cultural shock, Language Barriers, Misconceptions of Homeland, and culture, and even the level of acceptance or rejection of the immigrant, are all the challenges we face when arriving in a new country. Since early childhood, my mother strongly urged me to prioritize school more than anything else, not wanting me to struggle as she did. She has made me realize the importance of pursuing a higher education, which was something she did not have the opportunity to do. It is essential to her that I not only pursue an education or get a degree but have a career that I genuinely love. Being the first generation to graduate and able to obtain a degree in my family is what gives me the motivation to strive for success. Coming from a country that suppresses opportunities has greatly influenced my work ethic, this shapes me as a student that aspires for more, always wanting to challenge myself for the better. Graduating college as a biology major and pursuing dentistry in the future is my number one priority at the moment, although my ambitious character reveals in this conceptual focus, the penetrating strives to understand and learn inspires my learning and encourages progression. After I obtain my degree in dentistry, I want to be able to help the Hispanic community. Many Hispanic individuals face barriers to accessing quality dental care, such as lack of insurance, language barriers, and cultural differences. As a dentist, one can bridge these gaps by providing culturally sensitive care and communication, making dental services more accessible to the Hispanic community. Moreover, a dentist can use their position to advocate for policies that improve access to dental care for the Hispanic community, such as supporting programs that provide free or low-cost dental services, advocating for bilingual dental education and training, and promoting community outreach programs. Lastly, a dentist can serve as a role model for the Hispanic community, inspiring and encouraging young Hispanics to pursue careers in dentistry and other Medical and Healthcare fields, because we can do anything.
    William Griggs Memorial Scholarship for Science and Math
    From discovering fascinating cultures to idolizing social trends, moving could be said by many, a blessing. As an immigrant child myself, the pressure of having to work hard to succeed in a way my parents never had the opportunity to have never been a second-hand thought in my mind. I learned English when I came to this country at 10 years old. I am so fortunate by far to learn from such captivating diversity, learning how people act in distinct parts of the world and how significantly different we may seem, yet how similar we can be without even knowing. Seeing my life drastically change from one average flight, the popular principle of rapid adaptation is concealed in my consciousness. One may find this abnormal, but the reality is that all immigrant children face this certainty. Battling cultural shock, Language Barriers, Misconceptions of Homeland, and culture, and even the level of acceptance or rejection of the immigrant, are all the challenges we face when arriving in a new country. Since early childhood, my parents strongly urged me to prioritize school more than anything else, not wanting me to struggle as they did. They have made me realize the importance of pursuing a higher education, which was something they did not have the opportunity to do. It is essential to them that I not only pursue an education or get a degree but have a career that I genuinely love. Being the first generation to graduate and able to obtain a degree in my family is what gives me the motivation to strive for success. Coming from a country that suppresses opportunities has greatly influenced my work ethic, this shapes me as a student that aspires for more, always wanting to challenge myself for the better. Graduating college as a biology major and pursuing dentistry in the future is my number one priority at the moment, although my ambitious character reveals in this conceptual focus, the penetrating strives to understand and learn inspires my learning and encourages progression. My education in biology will provide a solid foundation for dental school, which is required to become a dentist. The courses I have taken in anatomy, physiology, and biochemistry are all essential subjects for dental school, and my knowledge in these areas can give me an advantage in the program. As a biology major, I can apply my knowledge and skills to a career in dentistry in various ways. My understanding of the human body's biological processes, including the skeletal and muscular systems, can be useful in diagnosing and treating dental problems. My experience in research and data analysis can contribute to the field of dentistry. Research plays a significant role in advancing dental treatments and techniques, and my knowledge of research methods can be beneficial in this aspect. After I obtain my degree in dentistry, I want to be able to help the Hispanic community. Many Hispanic individuals face barriers to accessing quality dental care, such as lack of insurance, language barriers, and cultural differences. As a dentist, one can bridge these gaps by providing culturally sensitive care and communication, making dental services more accessible to the Hispanic community. Moreover, a dentist can use their position to advocate for policies that improve access to dental care for the Hispanic community, such as supporting programs that provide free or low-cost dental services, advocating for bilingual dental education and training, and promoting community outreach programs. Lastly, a dentist can serve as a role model for the Hispanic community, inspiring and encouraging young Hispanics to pursue careers in dentistry and other healthcare fields.
    Goobie-Ramlal Education Scholarship
    From discovering fascinating cultures to idolizing social trends, moving could be said by many, a blessing. As an immigrant child myself, the pressure of having to work hard to succeed in a way my parents never had the opportunity to have never been a second-hand thought in my mind. I learned English when I came to this country at 10 years old. I am so fortunate by far to learn from such captivating diversity, learning how people act in distinct parts of the world and how significantly different we may seem, yet how similar we can be without even knowing. Seeing my life drastically change from one average flight, the popular principle of rapid adaptation is concealed in my consciousness. One may find this abnormal, but the reality is that all immigrant children face this certainty. Battling cultural shock, Language Barriers, Misconceptions of Homeland, and culture, and even the level of acceptance or rejection of the immigrant, are all the challenges we face when arriving in a new country. Since early childhood, my parents strongly urged me to prioritize school more than anything else, not wanting me to struggle as they did. They have made me realize the importance of pursuing a higher education, which was something they did not have the opportunity to do. It is essential to them that I not only pursue an education or get a degree but have a career that I genuinely love. Being the first generation to graduate and able to obtain a degree in my family is what gives me the motivation to strive for success. Coming from a country that suppresses opportunities has greatly influenced my work ethic, this shapes me as a student that aspires for more, always wanting to challenge myself for the better. Graduating college as a biology major and pursuing dentistry in the future is my number one priority at the moment, although my ambitious character reveals in this conceptual focus, the penetrating strives to understand and learn inspires my learning and encourages progression. After I obtain my degree in dentistry, I want to be able to help the Hispanic community. Many Hispanic individuals face barriers to accessing quality dental care, such as lack of insurance, language barriers, and cultural differences. As a dentist, one can bridge these gaps by providing culturally sensitive care and communication, making dental services more accessible to the Hispanic community. Moreover, a dentist can use their position to advocate for policies that improve access to dental care for the Hispanic community, such as supporting programs that provide free or low-cost dental services, advocating for bilingual dental education and training, and promoting community outreach programs. Lastly, as a dentist I can serve as a role model for the Hispanic community, inspiring and encouraging young Hispanics to pursue careers in dentistry and other healthcare fields, because, we can do anything.
    CEW IV Foundation Scholarship Program
    In today's world, inequality and social injustice continue to be pervasive issues that affect many individuals and communities. The disadvantaged, including people living in poverty, ethnic and racial minorities, women, and the LGBTQ+ community, are disproportionately impacted by these challenges. Despite the efforts of governments and non-governmental organizations to address these problems, it is evident that current approaches are not sufficient, and society needs to change its way of responding to the issues of the disadvantaged. One reason why a change in approach is necessary is that current methods have not been effective in eradicating poverty and inequality. For instance, poverty rates remain high in many countries despite billions of dollars being spent on poverty reduction programs. Additionally, the disadvantaged continue to face discrimination and marginalization in various aspects of life, such as education, healthcare, employment, and housing. Furthermore, the current approach of focusing on providing aid and support to disadvantaged individuals without addressing the root causes of their problems is unsustainable. Such an approach perpetuates a cycle of dependency and does not empower individuals to take control of their lives. Therefore, a new approach that prioritizes empowering individuals and communities to become self-sufficient is necessary. Moreover, a change in society's response to the disadvantaged is essential to promote social cohesion and stability. When individuals and communities feel that they are excluded and marginalized, they become resentful, which can lead to social unrest and conflict. Therefore, it is in society's best interest to ensure that everyone is included and that opportunities for success are available to all. To change its way of responding to the problems of the disadvantaged, society needs to adopt a holistic approach that recognizes the interconnectedness of social, economic, and political factors. This approach should prioritize investments in education, healthcare, and skills development to empower individuals and communities to become self-sufficient. Additionally, society should promote policies that address discrimination and marginalization, such as affirmative action and social protection programs. Furthermore, creating opportunities for the disadvantaged to participate in decision-making processes can ensure that their voices are heard, and their needs are addressed. Finally, collaboration between governments, non-governmental organizations, and the private sector is essential to ensure a comprehensive and sustainable response to the problems of the disadvantaged. In conclusion, society must change its way of responding to the problems of the disadvantaged. Current approaches have not been effective in addressing inequality and poverty, perpetuating dependency, and do not promote social cohesion. A new approach that empowers individuals and communities, addresses the root causes of problems and ensures inclusion for all is necessary for a fair and just society.