I’m Mihika Bharadwaj, a sophomore at Oklahoma State University studying Pre-Veterinary Medicine. Growing up in a busy household where my parents worked long hours to build a better life for us, I learned early on about dedication and sacrifice. But what really shaped me was the stray dog that showed up on our porch one rainy night when I was twelve. I named her Luna. She was scared, skinny, and barely trusting of people. Nursing Luna back to health was not easy. I spent countless hours sitting by her side, coaxing her with treats, and slowly gaining her trust. That experience showed me the quiet power of care and patience and it planted the first seed of my desire to become a veterinarian. Volunteering at Pooch Savers Rescue throughout high school expanded that passion. I still remember the first time I helped socialize a shy dog who had been abused. Watching her slowly wag her tail and finally relax around people was one of the most rewarding moments of my life. Those dogs taught me that healing is not just physical, it is emotional too. During my senior year, I earned my Certified Veterinary Assistant certification through an internship at a local clinic. I worked as a kennel technician, often staying late to comfort scared pets or clean up after difficult procedures. One night, after a long day, a small dachshund named Max would not stop trembling in his kennel. I sat with him until he calmed down, whispering soft words and letting him rest his head on my arm. Those moments cemented for me that being a veterinarian means being more than a doctor. It means being a guardian and a friend. I want to focus my career on serving communities where access to quality veterinary care is limited. I have seen how high costs and a lack of services can put families in impossible situations, forcing them to choose between their own needs and the health of their pets. I believe every animal deserves a chance, no matter where they come from or who their family is. This scholarship would help me keep moving forward in this challenging path without the crushing weight of debt. It would allow me to focus on my studies and continue gaining experience so I can make a real difference. Becoming a veterinarian for me is not just a career choice, it is a calling born from small, meaningful moments. A scared dog on my porch, a wagging tail after months of healing, and quiet nights spent comforting pets in pain. I am driven by the belief that kindness and care can change lives, and I want to be part of that change. Thank you for considering my application.

My name is Mihika Bharadwaj, and I am a sophomore at Oklahoma State University studying Pre-Veterinary Medicine. As a first-generation American born to parents who immigrated from India, I have always been motivated to make the most of the opportunities available to me. This drive has shaped my passion for animal care, community service, and making a positive difference in the world. In high school, I was involved in choir and FFA, which taught me teamwork and leadership. I also volunteered at Pooch Savers Rescue, helping care for abandoned and mistreated dogs. This experience inspired me to pursue veterinary medicine and showed me the power of compassion and advocacy. During my senior year, I completed an internship at a veterinary clinic where I earned my Certified Veterinary Assistant certification. Working as a kennel technician, I gained hands-on experience and learned about the challenges and rewards of veterinary work. This confirmed my commitment to becoming a veterinarian who provides compassionate care. One of my biggest goals is to offer affordable veterinary services for small animals, especially for families who struggle with high costs. I believe every pet deserves quality care regardless of their owner’s financial situation. This scholarship would ease my financial burden and allow me to focus more on my studies and community work without worrying about debt. Outside academics, I have worked as a swim teaching assistant, front desk coordinator at a doggy daycare, and tutor. I am also active in the Pre-Vet Club, Botany Club, Choir, and Student Union Activities Board at college. These experiences helped me build communication skills, empathy, and connections with others who share my passions. Being a first-generation student has been challenging, but it has taught me resilience and resourcefulness. I hope to inspire others from similar backgrounds to pursue their dreams. In the future, I want to combine my veterinary work with community outreach to educate pet owners about animal health and preventive care. I also plan to volunteer at shelters and rescue groups to give back. Through this work, I hope to improve the lives of animals and people in my community and beyond. This scholarship will support my education and encourage me to keep moving forward. With your help, I can continue gaining valuable experience and make a meaningful impact through my career. I am committed to making the world a better place for animals and their families, and this scholarship brings me closer to that goal. Thank you for considering my application.

When I think about community, I don’t just think about volunteering or school clubs. I think about the people who have shaped me. The ones who stayed by my side, encouraged me when I wanted to give up, and reminded me why I keep going. My family, my friends, my teachers, and even people I’ve only known for a short time have all helped me become who I am. My parents came to this country from India to build something better for our family. I was born here, and I’m the first to go through college in the United States. Even though they didn’t grow up in the same system, they’ve supported me every step of the way. Their strength and belief in me have always been my foundation, even in quiet ways. At school, I found community in the small moments. The friends I studied with, the people I laughed with in choir, and the classmates who helped me get through tough weeks. Being surrounded by people who cared reminded me that I didn’t have to do everything alone. They made me feel like I belonged. One moment I’ll never forget was during a choir trip my senior year. One of my classmates had a panic attack before a performance. I sat next to her, held her hand, and stayed until she calmed down. It wasn’t anything huge, but it reminded me that community is about showing up when it matters. That small act of being there for someone showed me how powerful kindness can be. Community is what keeps me grounded. It’s where I find my strength and my sense of purpose. It gives me hope for the future, because I know that even when the world feels heavy, there will always be people who care, and there will always be a place for kindness.

Hi, my name is Mihika Bharadwaj, and I’m a sophomore at Oklahoma State University studying Pre-Veterinary Medicine. I’ve always loved animals, but it wasn’t until I started volunteering at a dog rescue in high school that I realized I wanted to turn that love into a lifelong career. Becoming a veterinarian is more than just a goal for me. It’s how I want to serve. I want to give animals the care they need and help families keep their pets healthy and happy, especially those who can’t always afford the rising costs of vet care. I believe that caring for animals is one of the ways I can make a real difference in the world. I’m also a first-generation American and college student. My parents went to university in India, but I’m the first in my family to go through the American college system. It hasn’t always been easy. I work during the summer as a kennel technician and take on as much experience as I can while also staying on top of my studies. Financial support like this scholarship would give me a little more room to breathe, so I can keep pushing forward and stay focused on what matters most. I’m so grateful for the chance to apply. Thank you for supporting women like me who are trying their best to walk the path they feel called to.