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Mia Grishin

1,985

Bold Points

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Finalist

Bio

I am passionate about medicine, particularly neuro-oncology, and I am inspired by my younger brother's battle with Neurofibromatosis Type 1. I am motivated to contribute to medical research and improve treatments for brain cancer patients. Growing up in a single-parent household, my mom's resilience and support shaped my determination. I am committed to helping others through my medical career and aspire to inspire women to enter STEM fields and increase representation in oncology research.

Education

Epic Charter School

High School
2018 - 2025

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

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

  • Majors of interest:

    • Medicine
    • Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Other
  • Planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Medicine

    • Dream career goals:

      To become a Neuro-Oncologist

    • Cleaner

      Private
      2020 – 20244 years

    Sports

    Equestrian

    Club
    2020 – 20222 years

    Dancing

    Club
    2010 – 20177 years

    Soccer

    Club
    2018 – 20202 years

    Arts

    • Myriah Thompson School of Dance

      Dance
      I participated in competitions and yearly recitals.
      2010 – 2017

    Public services

    • Volunteering

      Food Bank of Easter Oklahoma — My role was to pack non-perishable food items, like cornflakes, into bags to help prepare food packages for families in need at the food bank.
      2025 – Present
    • Volunteering

      Full-Service Filling Station — As a volunteer, I assisted with community outreach events, service projects, and efforts to engage and serve local families, sharing God's love through action.
      2020 – Present
    • Volunteering

      Mannford Giving Tree — As a Giving Tree Assistant, I collected, organized, and labeled donated gifts, ensuring they were sorted and wrapped for delivery to families in need.
      2019 – Present
    • Volunteering

      Mannford Toy Run — As a Volunteer, I helped collect and organize toy donations, ensuring they were delivered to local children in need during the holiday season. I assisted with event coordination and distribution to families.
      2020 – Present

    Future Interests

    Advocacy

    Volunteering

    Gabriel Martin Memorial Annual Scholarship
    Living with Hashimoto’s disease and syncope seizures has significantly influenced my life, shaping my perspective and my resilience. Hashimoto’s disease, an autoimmune condition that affects the thyroid, has led to fluctuating energy levels, mood swings, and overall fatigue. On many days, the exhaustion feels overwhelming, and managing this condition requires a combination of medication, regular check-ups, and lifestyle adjustments to ensure I can keep functioning at my best. Despite the challenges, this condition has taught me valuable lessons in self-care, discipline, and patience. I have learned how to listen to my body, recognize when I need rest, and prioritize my health, even if it means adjusting my plans. Syncope seizures have presented a different set of challenges. These seizures, though not frequent, have introduced unpredictability into my life. They can happen at any time, often without warning, and managing them requires me to be extra cautious. I’ve learned to adapt by avoiding certain triggers, staying aware of my physical limits, and ensuring I’m in environments that minimize risks during an episode. Having seizures has also taught me about the importance of staying connected to the people who care about me, as they can provide support when I need it the most. Although living with these conditions hasn’t been easy, it has also fueled my passion for medicine. Experiencing firsthand the difficulties of navigating chronic health issues has deepened my empathy for others who face similar challenges. It has made me realize how crucial it is to have a supportive and knowledgeable healthcare team that understands not only the medical aspects of a condition but also the emotional and psychological toll it can take on a person. The compassion and dedication of the doctors and specialists I’ve worked with have inspired me to pursue a healthcare career, particularly in neuro-oncology. I want to be the kind of doctor who doesn’t just treat the disease but also offers emotional support and understanding to patients and their families. Looking toward the future, my goal is to become a neuro-oncologist, where I can contribute to finding better treatments for brain cancers and neurological disorders. Through my struggles, I’ve developed a deep understanding of the emotional and physical challenges that come with chronic illness. I want to use my experiences to advocate for patients, helping them feel heard, understood, and supported through their medical journeys. My health challenges have given me a unique perspective on the importance of quality care, and I’m driven to ensure that patients facing similar obstacles receive the care they deserve. My conditions have not only strengthened my resilience but have also given me a deep sense of purpose in pursuing a career dedicated to helping others.
    Overcoming Adversity - Jack Terry Memorial Scholarship
    Dr. Jack Terry’s story is an extraordinary testament to the resilience of the human spirit. The hardships he faced such as losing his entire family in the Holocaust, surviving three Nazi concentration camps, and coming to the United States as an orphan with no education or language skills could have easily broken him. Yet, despite the immense trauma, he fought to build a successful and meaningful life, becoming not only an accomplished professional but also a loving father, grandfather, and mentor. His unwavering determination to overcome such insurmountable adversity and dedicate his life to helping others is truly inspiring. Like Dr. Terry's, my life has been shaped by personal hardship and the desire to overcome it. Growing up in a single-parent household with a younger brother who is battling brain cancer, I’ve faced emotional and financial challenges that have tested my resilience. Watching my brother endure treatment for his illness has been a heart-wrenching experience, but it has also instilled in me a deep determination to make a difference. My family’s struggle with the healthcare system, financial stress, and uncertainty has motivated me to pursue a career in medicine, specifically in neuro-oncology, where I hope to help others who are facing similar battles. The adversity I’ve faced has taught me invaluable lessons about perseverance, empathy, and the importance of never giving up, no matter how difficult life may seem. I’ve learned to find strength in moments of vulnerability and to see challenges as opportunities for growth. My experiences have also made me deeply empathetic, understanding the pain and struggles that families like mine endure. I am committed to using my future career as a doctor to alleviate suffering, provide hope, and give back to the community that has supported me through these tough times. Just as Dr. Terry dedicated much of his life to sharing his story and educating others, I am determined to use my studies to help those in need, particularly in the field of neuro-oncology. My goal is to provide not just medical care but also emotional support and education to patients and families, helping them navigate the complexities of brain cancer. I also hope to contribute to medical research, using my education to push the boundaries of treatment and find more effective therapies. Ultimately, I want to honor the lessons I’ve learned from adversity by giving back to society, much like Dr. Terry did throughout his life
    Scorenavigator Financial Literacy Scholarship
    The moment I saw my little brother in pain, battling brain cancer, I knew I had to dedicate my life to helping others like him. Growing up in a single-parent household with a mother who worked tirelessly to support me and my siblings, I witnessed firsthand the financial struggles that often accompany serious illness. The overwhelming medical costs, combined with everyday expenses, taught me the importance of managing finances wisely. Through these experiences, I’ve learned how critical financial education is in securing a future, not just for myself but for those I care about. From a young age, I’ve been deeply aware of the impact financial stress can have on a family. Watching my mom sacrifice so much to provide for us while managing the constant worry of healthcare costs shaped my understanding of the role finances play in our lives. My brother’s battle with brain cancer further emphasized this, as my family often faced tough decisions between medical bills and other basic needs. It was a painful experience that highlighted the importance of financial stability, not only for emergencies but also for long-term goals like education and career advancement. As I pursue a career in medicine, specifically neuro-oncology, I am keenly aware of the financial obstacles ahead. Medical school, research costs, and establishing a practice are all expensive endeavors, and without a solid financial plan, these dreams could remain out of reach. The lessons I learned from my mom’s hard work and perseverance, combined with my experiences watching the impact of financial strain, have motivated me to prioritize financial literacy. I plan to apply the knowledge I gain to manage the financial challenges of my education and future career. Whether it’s budgeting for medical school expenses, seeking financial aid opportunities, or saving for research initiatives, I will be strategic in using my financial resources to support my goals. In addition to personal financial management, I also aim to use the financial education I gain to support others in my community. I’ve seen how financial insecurity can limit opportunities, and I want to help others navigate these challenges. My goal is to mentor students and families, offering advice on budgeting, saving, and accessing financial resources for education and healthcare. This will not only help those around me achieve their goals but also create a ripple effect of financial empowerment in my community. Ultimately, financial literacy is not just about managing money; it’s about creating opportunities, removing barriers, and ensuring a stable future. By gaining a strong understanding of finances, I plan to secure my future while giving back to my community. I am committed to using what I learn to help others navigate their financial challenges, ensuring that financial strain does not stand in the way of pursuing their dreams.
    CH2M HILL Alumni Association Legacy Gift Fund Scholarship
    I decided to pursue a STEM-related field of study because of my deep passion for science and its transformative potential in improving people's lives. From a young age, I was fascinated by how the human body works and the complex processes that enable it to function. However, it was my younger brother’s battle with Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1) and brain cancer that truly ignited my desire to pursue a career in medicine and medical research, particularly in the field of neuro-oncology. Watching my brother go through his treatments and the challenges of living with a life-threatening illness made me realize the profound impact that advancements in science and medicine can have on patients and their families. As I observed the incredible care provided by medical professionals, I became driven to contribute to the field by helping others who face similar struggles. I want to specialize in neuro-oncology, focusing on improving treatments and outcomes for patients with brain cancer. By combining my passion for scientific discovery with my dedication to patient care, I aim to contribute to developing new therapies that can increase survival rates and improve the quality of life for individuals battling these devastating diseases. My career goals extend beyond clinical practice. I am committed to advancing medical research, particularly in the field of biotechnology, to explore new avenues for treating and curing brain cancer. Innovations in biotechnology hold great promise for revolutionizing the way we treat neurological diseases, and I want to be part of that change. Through my studies and future research, I hope to develop less invasive, more effective treatments that can target cancer at the molecular level, providing patients with better outcomes and fewer side effects. In addition to my academic and career goals, I am passionate about giving back to my community. Growing up in a single-parent household, I understand the importance of support and resilience in the face of adversity. As I work toward becoming a doctor, I am committed to serving my community by offering mentorship and support to those who may not have the resources or guidance to pursue their own educational goals. I also aim to volunteer in local healthcare clinics and hospitals, where I can work directly with patients and their families, helping them navigate the complexities of healthcare while providing emotional and practical support. Ultimately, my ambition is to make a lasting impact in the medical field by combining my passion for STEM with my desire to help others. I want to be part of a future where medical advancements provide hope and healing, and I am committed to serving both my community and the broader healthcare field by contributing to the fight against brain cancer and other neurological diseases.
    Women in STEM Scholarship
    I’ve chosen to pursue STEM because of my deep passion for science and medicine, combined with a desire to make a meaningful impact on people’s lives. From a young age, I was fascinated by the way science and technology could solve complex problems, especially in healthcare. My personal experience with my younger brother’s battle against Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1) and brain cancer has been a significant influence on my decision to pursue a career in medicine, particularly in neuro-oncology. Watching him go through his treatment journey and witnessing the incredible care and breakthroughs in medicine that gave him hope further ignited my drive to dedicate myself to a career where I can help others facing similar struggles. The challenges my family faced, especially my mother’s unwavering support through my brother’s illness, have made me realize how vital it is to contribute to the field of medicine. I want to be part of a team that discovers better treatments, finds cures, and improves the lives of those suffering from serious health conditions like brain cancer. STEM fields, especially medical research and biotechnology, hold immense potential for transforming healthcare and providing hope for countless individuals and families. This is why I am committed to pursuing a career in medicine, driven by both the scientific excitement of discovery and the human connection of providing care and healing. As a woman in STEM, I feel motivated to break barriers and make a lasting difference in a field where women are still underrepresented, particularly in medical research and oncology. Throughout history, women have made significant contributions to science, but there’s still progress to be made in ensuring women’s voices and perspectives are heard and valued in these fields. I understand that the road to success in STEM can be challenging, especially as a woman, but I believe my passion for science, my drive to succeed, and my personal experiences will empower me to overcome any obstacles I may face. My goal is not only to excel academically but also to serve as an inspiration for other young women who may not see themselves represented in STEM fields. I hope to show them that with dedication, hard work, and a love for discovery, they can also pursue their dreams and make a difference in the world. I am especially passionate about making a difference in the medical field, where women still make up a smaller percentage of doctors and medical researchers. I plan to contribute to advancing medical knowledge, particularly in the area of brain cancer research, and hope to be part of a new generation of scientists and medical professionals who not only discover cutting-edge treatments but also provide compassionate, patient-centered care. In the future, I want to be the kind of doctor who combines scientific expertise with empathy, making sure my patients receive the best treatment available while also addressing their emotional and psychological needs. Medicine, particularly oncology, requires both intellectual rigor and deep compassion, and I aspire to offer both. By pursuing this career, I also hope to inspire other girls and women to enter the field of STEM. Representation matters, and by becoming a doctor, I want to help create a world where more young women feel empowered to pursue their interests in science and technology. I believe the diversity of perspectives brought by women in STEM will contribute to better innovation, more inclusive solutions, and ultimately, better outcomes for the people we serve. My goal is to break down barriers, challenge expectations, and use my talents to improve healthcare for everyone, particularly those facing life-threatening illnesses.
    Raise Me Up to DO GOOD Scholarship
    Being raised in a single-parent household has profoundly shaped who I am today and influenced my goals for the future. My mother, a single parent, has been my rock, managing the responsibility of raising me and my siblings while also navigating her challenges. Despite the hardships we faced, including my younger brother’s ongoing battle with brain cancer, she never wavered in her dedication to providing for us. Her strength, resilience, and unwavering support have not only helped me overcome difficult times but have also motivated me to strive for excellence in everything I do. Growing up in this environment taught me the importance of family, self-reliance, and determination. My mother’s sacrifices made me deeply appreciate the opportunities I have, and I want to honor her by pursuing a career in medicine to become a doctor. Her support has been instrumental in helping me push through challenges, and she’s always emphasized the value of education as a pathway to a better future. I am driven by the desire to give back to her and others by choosing a career that allows me to make a meaningful impact. I’ve always wanted to be a doctor, and my brother’s illness has only solidified that goal. Watching the medical professionals who cared for my brother inspired me to pursue a path where I could help people who are facing similar challenges. I want to be the kind of doctor who not only provides excellent medical care but also offers emotional support and compassion to patients and their families. My career in medicine is my way of giving back to others, particularly those struggling with cancer, and helping them through some of the most difficult times of their lives. In the future, I see myself as a doctor who is not only skilled in providing the best care but also someone who continues to learn and grow in the field. I am particularly interested in oncology and plan to specialize in treating brain cancer, as it has personally impacted my family. Through medicine, I hope to contribute to finding better treatments, reducing suffering, and improving the quality of life for patients. My goal is to use my talents and education to help those who are facing life-threatening illnesses and to offer them hope, care, and healing. Ultimately, being raised in a single-parent household has taught me the value of resilience, empathy, and hard work. These lessons will guide me on my path toward becoming a doctor. I am committed to using my skills, knowledge, and compassion to make a difference in the lives of others, particularly those in need of medical care. I know that pursuing medicine will allow me to fulfill my goal of making a meaningful impact on the world and improving the lives of those who are going through tough times, just as my family has.
    Maxwell Tuan Nguyen Memorial Scholarship
    What inspired me to pursue a career in the medical field was the personal experience of watching my younger brother battle Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1) and brain cancer. Seeing him go through the intense treatments, the emotional toll on our family, and the incredible care provided by medical professionals sparked a deep desire within me to become a part of this life-changing field. Throughout my brother’s journey, I realized the profound impact that doctors, researchers, and medical staff can have on a person’s life. It was their compassion, expertise, and unwavering dedication that inspired me to follow in their footsteps and dedicate my life to helping others, particularly patients who face the challenges of neurological diseases and cancer. This personal experience has given me a clear vision of what I want to accomplish in my career. I am particularly drawn to neuro-oncology because of my brother’s diagnosis. I want to specialize in treating brain cancer, utilizing advancements in medical research to provide more effective, less invasive treatments that can improve the quality of life for patients. My goal is not only to help diagnose and treat brain cancer but also to contribute to the growing field of biotechnology that holds the potential for groundbreaking therapies. Through innovation in this field, I hope to be part of a team that develops cures, reduces suffering, and ultimately saves lives. In addition to direct patient care, I am passionate about contributing to medical research and advancements in treatments. Biotechnology excites me because of its potential to revolutionize the way we approach cancer treatment. By integrating science, technology, and medicine, I believe we can make significant strides in curing or better managing diseases like brain cancer. I plan to combine my passion for scientific discovery with my desire to help others, using both clinical practice and research to make a lasting difference in the lives of patients. Ultimately, I aim to make a positive impact by not only providing high-quality care but also by being an advocate for patients, helping them navigate the emotional and psychological challenges that come with a diagnosis like brain cancer. My experiences with my brother’s illness have given me a unique understanding of the importance of empathy, and I want to bring that compassion into my medical career. By giving back to my community and being a source of support for patients and their families, I plan on making a difference both through the treatments I provide and the relationships I build with those I serve.
    Robert F. Lawson Fund for Careers that Care
    I am a passionate and determined individual who has always been driven by the desire to make a positive impact on the world, particularly in the field of medicine. Growing up, my life was deeply influenced by my younger brother’s battle with Neurofibromatosis Type 1 and brain cancer. Watching him endure the struggles and pain of this illness was heartbreaking, yet it also ignited a fire within me to help people facing similar challenges. The incredible care and dedication of the medical professionals who treated him showed me firsthand the immense difference doctors can make in a person’s life. It was through this experience that I knew I wanted to pursue a career in medicine, specifically as a neuro-oncologist, to help patients like my brother. From a young age, I have always prioritized my education. I strive to gather as much knowledge as possible and do my best academically to prepare myself for my future career. The more I learn about science, medicine, and biotechnology, the more excited I become about the possibilities for medical advancements. I have witnessed how science and technology can improve people’s lives, and it has motivated me to work toward being a part of that change. Whether it’s discovering new treatments or helping families cope with the challenges of life-threatening diseases, I am committed to being a source of hope and support for those in need. My family, especially my mother, has been my greatest support system throughout this journey. Despite the overwhelming challenges she has faced as a single mother raising me and my siblings, including caring for my brother’s illness, she has always emphasized the importance of education. Her strength and resilience in the face of adversity have shaped my drive to succeed. I aim to honor her sacrifices by doing my best in all that I do and using my education to make a difference in the world. I want to give back to her and others by becoming a compassionate and dedicated doctor who can help those in need. Throughout my career, I plan to make a lasting impact by focusing on oncology, particularly brain cancer. I am deeply passionate about biotechnology, which I believe holds the key to developing more effective and targeted treatments for cancer. I hope to be part of the medical community that works to find cures and improve the quality of life for patients. By combining scientific advancements with compassionate care, I believe we can create solutions that not only extend life but also provide hope and comfort for patients and their families. Ultimately, my goal is to make a meaningful difference in the world by helping to fight cancer and support those who need it most. Whether it’s through direct patient care or groundbreaking medical research, I am committed to using my skills and passion to create a brighter, healthier future for people battling brain cancer and other illnesses.
    Achieve Potential Scholarship
    Receiving this scholarship is important to me because it represents a crucial step toward achieving my dream of becoming a doctor, specifically a neuro-oncologist, and contributing to the fight against brain cancer. My passion for medicine, particularly in oncology, stems from my personal experiences, most notably my younger brother’s battle with brain cancer. Watching him go through his treatments and the challenges of living with Neurofibromatosis Type 1 has fueled my desire to pursue a career where I can make a tangible difference in the lives of cancer patients. This scholarship would provide me with the financial support needed to focus on my studies and pursue my career goals without the overwhelming worry of how to fund my education. Coming from a single-parent household, where my mother has had to support me and my siblings while caring for my brother’s illness, I am acutely aware of the financial challenges that many families face. My mom has always worked tirelessly to ensure we have what we need, often putting our needs before her own. The burden of raising three children while managing the stress of a divorce and my brother’s ongoing medical treatments has never been easy. Despite all this, she has always placed a strong emphasis on the importance of education. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to reduce the financial strain on her and allow me to fully immerse myself in my academic and career goals. This scholarship would not only provide the financial assistance I need, but it would also offer me the chance to pursue my passion for biotechnology and medical research. I have always strived to be a dedicated student, consistently pushing myself to achieve the best grades and gather as much knowledge as possible to pursue a career in medicine. Biotechnology, with its potential to create breakthroughs in medical treatments, especially for conditions like brain cancer, excites me deeply. I am driven to be part of the solution, using my education and research to find better treatments and, hopefully, a cure for diseases that affect families like mine. Additionally, the scholarship would allow me to focus on gaining hands-on experience in the medical field, especially in pediatric oncology. I’ve volunteered at hospitals and clinics, but this scholarship would allow me to take on more meaningful roles, working directly with medical professionals and contributing to the well-being of young patients battling cancer. By helping others, I am further motivated to pursue my dreams and make a real difference in the world of medicine. In conclusion, this scholarship would relieve the financial burden on my family, allowing me to focus more on my studies, gain critical experience, and achieve my dream of becoming a neuro-oncologist. It would provide the resources I need to honor my family’s sacrifices and use my education to help others, especially those impacted by brain cancer like my brother. I am deeply committed to making a positive impact, and this scholarship would be instrumental in helping me succeed.
    Dr. Michal Lomask Memorial Scholarship
    I am passionate about an education in STEM because I believe it holds the key to solving some of the most pressing medical challenges we face today. Specifically, through biotechnology, I see the opportunity to contribute to the creation of cures or medications that can help brain cancer patients, like my little brother, who has been battling Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1) and brain cancer. Watching my brother endure his treatments and seeing the emotional toll it has taken on our family has been heartbreaking, but it has also driven me to make a difference in the field of medicine. His diagnosis sparked a deep desire to understand the science behind his illness and find ways to help people who are facing similar struggles. Biotechnology excites me because it combines cutting-edge scientific research with practical applications that have the potential to transform lives. The rapid advancements in biotechnology offer the possibility of developing new treatments, therapies, and, eventually, cures for conditions that currently have no effective solutions. My brother’s illness has been the catalyst for my interest in the power of science to create change. I am especially motivated by the idea that biotechnology can be used to target neurological cancers at the genetic or molecular level, potentially changing the way we treat or even cure brain cancer. In recent years, there have been significant breakthroughs in biotechnology, from the development of personalized medicine to innovative gene therapies. These advancements give me hope that with the right tools, we can make great strides in treating diseases like brain cancer. I am particularly drawn to the idea of using biotechnology to develop therapies that could either slow or stop the progression of brain tumors, allowing patients more time with their families and a better quality of life. I envision a future where, through biotechnological innovations, we are not only treating symptoms but also addressing the root causes of these diseases at the cellular level. My brother’s struggle with brain cancer has motivated me to explore how biotechnology can be harnessed to target these illnesses in more effective ways. The current treatments available for brain cancer, like surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy, often come with significant side effects and limited success rates. I am driven by the hope that biotechnology will lead to treatments that are more effective, less invasive, and kinder to the body. By pursuing a STEM education, I want to equip myself with the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute to this exciting field and ultimately help those who are suffering from cancer. Through biotechnology, I hope to be part of a generation of scientists and medical professionals who push the boundaries of what is possible in medicine. My passion is not only to develop the next generation of treatments but also to give hope to families who are watching their loved ones fight for their lives. I believe that biotechnology holds the key to making life-saving breakthroughs in brain cancer treatment, and I am determined to use my education to contribute to this field. I want to help change the landscape of cancer treatment and make a meaningful impact on the lives of people who are suffering, just like my brother. Ultimately, my goal is to combine the power of biotechnology with my desire to help others, using science to find solutions that improve and save lives. Through an education in STEM, I hope to be part of the movement that makes a lasting difference in the fight against brain cancer.
    Curtis Holloway Memorial Scholarship
    The person who has supported me most throughout my educational journey is my single mother. She has been my biggest source of encouragement, and her unwavering support has shaped who I am today. Despite the challenges of raising me, my older brother, and my younger brother, who has brain cancer, while also managing the aftermath of a divorce, she has always prioritized my education and my future. Her determination and resilience in the face of adversity have shown me what it means to work hard and never give up, no matter how difficult life gets. My mother’s support has had a profound impact on my growth. From a young age, she instilled in me the belief that I could achieve anything I set my mind to, even when circumstances seemed daunting. I watched her work tirelessly to care for me, my siblings, and herself, all while maintaining unwavering strength. Through it all, she taught me the value of perseverance and the importance of doing my best, no matter how tough things get. She’s always been there to encourage me, whether I was facing struggles in school, dealing with personal challenges, or feeling uncertain about my future. Her belief in me has given me the confidence to tackle any obstacle with determination. One of the most significant lessons my mother taught me is that success isn’t about seeking validation from others but about doing my best for myself and the people I love. This lesson has helped me overcome the need for academic validation and has given me a deeper sense of self-worth. It’s easy to get caught up in the pressure to meet external expectations, but my mom has always reminded me to stay focused on my personal growth and to value the journey of learning, not just the end result. This perspective has helped me persevere through moments of self-doubt and has fueled my passion to strive for excellence, not because of what others expect of me, but because I want to make her proud and honor the sacrifices she’s made for me. As I continue my academic journey, I am deeply motivated to honor my mother by doing my best in everything I do. My goal is to pursue a career in medicine, specifically as a doctor, and I want to give back to her for all that she’s done for me. When we both get older, I hope to take care of her, just as she has taken care of me throughout my life. I will continue to push myself in my studies and work toward my career goals, knowing that my success will be a reflection of her hard work and sacrifices. I owe so much of who I am to her, and I want to make sure that I repay her for everything she has done for me. My mom’s support has been especially instrumental because of everything she has gone through in her life. Raising two children while caring for a son with brain cancer and dealing with the emotional and financial challenges of divorce has required immense strength and dedication. She has faced each challenge with grace, and I have learned from her that no matter what life throws at us, we have the power to overcome it. As I work toward my goals, I'll carry her lessons with me and continue to build on the foundation she has given me. I will strive to make her proud, honor her sacrifices, and ensure that one day, I am in a position to take care of her as she has cared for me.
    Young Women in STEM Scholarship
    I am deeply motivated by personal experiences, particularly the impact of my younger brother’s battle with Neurofibromatosis Type 1, which is a type of brain cancer. Watching him endure such a challenging and life-changing experience has been both heart-wrenching and eye-opening for our entire family. Through his ongoing treatment, I witnessed firsthand the incredible work of medical professionals who focused not only on his physical recovery but also on his emotional needs. Their compassion, expertise, and unwavering dedication had a big impact on me, and it solidified my desire to pursue a career in medicine. The experience of seeing my brother fight Neurofibromatosis Type 1 and brain cancer, and the exceptional care he received, showed me the profound difference that a doctor can make in someone’s life. It inspired me to become part of a field where I could help people facing similar challenges. I am driven by the idea that, as a doctor, I could offer comfort, healing, and hope to families in the most difficult times of their lives. If I could do anything with my life, I imagine myself becoming a doctor to heal people so they can live their lives free from sickness. My ultimate goal is to specialize in Neuro-Oncology, using my skills to improve the quality of life for others, just as the doctors who helped my brother worked tirelessly to improve his life and well-being. I want to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives, just as the medical professionals did for my family. 2. What excites me most about STEM is the endless possibilities it offers, especially in the field of healthcare. The ability to use science and technology to solve some of the world’s most pressing problems, particularly in medicine, it what makes me so interested in it. The potential to discover cures for diseases, improve treatments, and ultimately save lives is both inspiring and humbling. With the rapid pace of technological advancements and ongoing research, we are constantly on the brink of groundbreaking discoveries that can change the world for the better. The dynamic nature of STEM, focused on problem-solving, creativity, and collaboration, fuels my passion to be a part of it. In the field of information technology, I see incredible potential to make a meaningful impact, especially in healthcare. IT can streamline healthcare systems, improve patient care, and accelerate medical research. By developing software to manage patient data, creating tools to improve communication between doctors and patients, or utilizing data analytics to predict and prevent diseases, I believe I can contribute to making healthcare more efficient and accessible. Additionally, innovations like telemedicine, AI, and health apps are already transforming how patients receive care, and I would love to be a part of those advancements. I want to work in a field that directly improves lives, helps find cures, and makes a tangible difference in the world through technology. Ultimately, I hope to contribute to improving healthcare accessibility and ensuring that everyone has the opportunity for better treatment and well-being. 3. The greatest challenge I’ve had to overcome is not feeling like I’m smart enough to pursue a career as a doctor. Throughout my academic journey, I’ve faced moments of self-doubt, questioning if I had the intelligence or capability to succeed in such a demanding field. The idea of becoming a doctor often seemed overwhelming due to the rigorous coursework, high expectations, and the complexity of the medical profession. I worried that I wouldn’t be able to handle the pressure or live up to the standards required to succeed. To overcome this, I started focusing on my passion for helping others and my deep desire to make a difference in people’s lives. I realized that being successful as a doctor is not just about being smart, it’s about hard work, resilience, and a willingness to learn from both successes and failures. I began setting small, achievable goals and breaking down larger tasks into manageable steps. This approach allowed me to focus on mastering one concept at a time without feeling overwhelmed. Additionally, I sought support from teachers, mentors, and peers, which helped me gain perspective and build confidence in my abilities. Through this process, I’ve learned that self-doubt is a normal part of growth. Instead of letting it hold me back, I’ve used it as motivation to push forward. Now, I am more determined than ever to pursue my dream of becoming a doctor, knowing that dedication, perseverance, and a passion for helping others will guide me through any challenge.
    Mia Grishin Student Profile | Bold.org