As a young black student, the absence of representation weighed heavily on me. Rarely did I encounter teachers or classmates who looked like me or shared my cultural background. In the absence of role models who mirrored my own experiences, I often felt overlooked and marginalized. However, rather than succumbing to despair, I drew strength from the knowledge that representation matters. I realized that by embracing my identity and voice, I could serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for future generations. One of my greatest aspirations is to become a black obstetrician, a field in which representation is sorely lacking. According to recent statistics, black women make up only a small fraction of obstetricians in the United States, comprising just 2% of the workforce. This stark underrepresentation not only highlights the urgent need for greater diversity in medicine but also underscores the importance of role models who can inspire future generations of aspiring healthcare professionals.My journey of resilience and determination has not only shaped my own aspirations but has also inspired those closest to me, including my younger sister Maya. At just 11 years old, Maya had already internalized the notion that her options within the medical field were limited by the lack of representation she observed around her. Like me, she felt constrained by the pervasive image of predominantly white doctors, struggling to envision herself breaking into a field where she felt she didn't belong.However, when I shared with Maya my own aspirations of becoming a black doctor, something shifted within her. Suddenly, the barriers that once seemed insurmountable began to crumble, replaced by a newfound sense of possibility and empowerment. Seeing someone she admired and looked up to pursue their dreams with unwavering determination sparked a flame of inspiration within Maya. For the first time, she dared to imagine herself following in my footsteps and pursuing a career in medicine.My resilience became a guiding light for Maya, showing her that representation matters and that her dreams are not bound by the limitations imposed by societal norms. Through my example, Maya learned that she too could defy expectations and carve out her own path, regardless of the color of her skin or the barriers she may face along the way.As Maya embarks on her own journey towards a future in medicine, I am filled with pride and hope for the impact she will undoubtedly have on the world. By breaking down barriers and challenging stereotypes, Maya has the power to inspire future generations of aspiring healthcare professionals, paving the way for a more diverse and inclusive future in medicine.Together, we stand as living testament to the transformative power of resilience, determination, and the unwavering belief in the boundless potential that resides within each of us. As Maya sets forth on her own path, I am confident that she will continue to inspire and uplift those around her, leaving an indelible mark on the world and shaping the future of medicine for generations to come. In the fall I will start up my journey at the great Hampton University majoring in biomedical sciences and start the journey for my sister and I too show her anything is possible.

As a young black student, the absence of representation weighed heavily on me. Rarely did I encounter teachers or classmates who looked like me or shared my cultural background. In the absence of role models who mirrored my own experiences, I often felt overlooked and marginalized. However, rather than succumbing to despair, I drew strength from the knowledge that representation matters. I realized that by embracing my identity and voice, I could serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for future generations. One of my greatest aspirations is to become a black obstetrician, a field in which representation is sorely lacking. According to recent statistics, black women make up only a small fraction of obstetricians in the United States, comprising just 2% of the workforce. This stark underrepresentation not only highlights the urgent need for greater diversity in medicine but also underscores the importance of role models who can inspire future generations of aspiring healthcare professionals.My journey of resilience and determination has not only shaped my own aspirations but has also inspired those closest to me, including my younger sister Maya. At just 11 years old, Maya had already internalized the notion that her options within the medical field were limited by the lack of representation she observed around her. Like me, she felt constrained by the pervasive image of predominantly white doctors, struggling to envision herself breaking into a field where she felt she didn't belong.However, when I shared with Maya my own aspirations of becoming a black doctor, something shifted within her. Suddenly, the barriers that once seemed insurmountable began to crumble, replaced by a newfound sense of possibility and empowerment. Seeing someone she admired and looked up to pursue their dreams with unwavering determination sparked a flame of inspiration within Maya. For the first time, she dared to imagine herself following in my footsteps and pursuing a career in medicine.My resilience became a guiding light for Maya, showing her that representation matters and that her dreams are not bound by the limitations imposed by societal norms. Through my example, Maya learned that she too could defy expectations and carve out her own path, regardless of the color of her skin or the barriers she may face along the way.As Maya embarks on her own journey towards a future in medicine, I am filled with pride and hope for the impact she will undoubtedly have on the world. By breaking down barriers and challenging stereotypes, Maya has the power to inspire future generations of aspiring healthcare professionals, paving the way for a more diverse and inclusive future in medicine.Together, we stand as living testament to the transformative power of resilience, determination, and the unwavering belief in the boundless potential that resides within each of us. And as Maya sets forth on her own path, I am confident that she will continue to inspire and uplift those around her, leaving an indelible mark on the world and shaping the future of medicine for generations to come. In the fall I will start up my journey at the great Hampton University majoring in biomedical sciences and start the journey for my sister and I too show her anything is possible. The greatest challenge I faced was not the physical and emotional toll of caring for my family, but rather the internal struggle to reconcile my own needs with those of others. As a child thrust into the role of caregiver, I learned the importance of selflessness and sacrifice, discovering a reservoir of strength and resilience I never knew existed. At the tender age of 15, I found myself facing a challenge that would test my resilience and strength in ways I never imagined. It was a day like any other when I received the news that would forever alter the course of my adolescence – my father had been rushed to the hospital due to complications with his heart. In an instant, the stability and security I had taken for granted were replaced by uncertainty and fear. As my mother grappled with the overwhelming responsibilities of work and caring for my father at the hospital, the burden of managing our household fell squarely on my shoulders. Suddenly, I was thrust into the role of caregiver, tasked with ensuring the well-being of my younger sisters while grappling with my own emotions and anxieties. At just 15 years old, I was forced to confront the harsh realities of adulthood long before I was ready. Today, as I reflect on those tumultuous days and my dad who is in great health 3 long surgeries later, I am filled with gratitude for the lessons they imparted. Though the journey was fraught with hardship and uncertainty, it ultimately strengthened the bonds that unite us as a family and shaped me into the resilient, compassionate individual I am today. And though the scars of that challenging time may linger, they serve as a testament to the indomitable spirit that resides within each of us, capable of overcoming even the greatest of obstacles.

As a young black student, the absence of representation weighed heavily on me. Rarely did I encounter teachers or classmates who looked like me or shared my cultural background. In the absence of role models who mirrored my own experiences, I often felt overlooked and marginalized. However, rather than succumbing to despair, I drew strength from the knowledge that representation matters. I realized that by embracing my identity and voice, I could serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for future generations. One of my greatest aspirations is to become a black obstetrician, a field in which representation is sorely lacking. According to recent statistics, black women make up only a small fraction of obstetricians in the United States, comprising just 2% of the workforce. This stark underrepresentation not only highlights the urgent need for greater diversity in medicine but also underscores the importance of role models who can inspire future generations of aspiring healthcare professionals.My journey of resilience and determination has not only shaped my own aspirations but has also inspired those closest to me, including my younger sister Maya. At just 11 years old, Maya had already internalized the notion that her options within the medical field were limited by the lack of representation she observed around her. Like me, she felt constrained by the pervasive image of predominantly white doctors, struggling to envision herself breaking into a field where she felt she didn't belong.However, when I shared with Maya my own aspirations of becoming a black doctor, something shifted within her. Suddenly, the barriers that once seemed insurmountable began to crumble, replaced by a newfound sense of possibility and empowerment. Seeing someone she admired and looked up to pursue their dreams with unwavering determination sparked a flame of inspiration within Maya. For the first time, she dared to imagine herself following in my footsteps and pursuing a career in medicine.My resilience became a guiding light for Maya, showing her that representation matters and that her dreams are not bound by the limitations imposed by societal norms. Through my example, Maya learned that she too could defy expectations and carve out her own path, regardless of the color of her skin or the barriers she may face along the way.As Maya embarks on her own journey towards a future in medicine, I am filled with pride and hope for the impact she will undoubtedly have on the world. By breaking down barriers and challenging stereotypes, Maya has the power to inspire future generations of aspiring healthcare professionals, paving the way for a more diverse and inclusive future in medicine.Together, we stand as living testament to the transformative power of resilience, determination, and the unwavering belief in the boundless potential that resides within each of us. And as Maya sets forth on her own path, I am confident that she will continue to inspire and uplift those around her, leaving an indelible mark on the world and shaping the future of medicine for generations to come. In the fall I will start up my journey at the great Hampton University majoring in biomedical sciences and start the journey for my sister and I too show her anything is possible.

As a young black student, the absence of representation weighed heavily on me. Rarely did I encounter teachers or classmates who looked like me or shared my cultural background. In the absence of role models who mirrored my own experiences, I often felt overlooked and marginalized. However, rather than succumbing to despair, I drew strength from the knowledge that representation matters. I realized that by embracing my identity and voice, I could serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for future generations. One of my greatest aspirations is to become a black obstetrician, a field in which representation is sorely lacking. According to recent statistics, black women make up only a small fraction of obstetricians in the United States, comprising just 2% of the workforce. This stark underrepresentation not only highlights the urgent need for greater diversity in medicine but also underscores the importance of role models who can inspire future generations of aspiring healthcare professionals.My journey of resilience and determination has not only shaped my own aspirations but has also inspired those closest to me, including my younger sister Maya. At just 11 years old, Maya had already internalized the notion that her options within the medical field were limited by the lack of representation she observed around her. Like me, she felt constrained by the pervasive image of predominantly white doctors, struggling to envision herself breaking into a field where she felt she didn't belong.However, when I shared with Maya my own aspirations of becoming a black doctor, something shifted within her. Suddenly, the barriers that once seemed insurmountable began to crumble, replaced by a newfound sense of possibility and empowerment. Seeing someone she admired and looked up to pursue their dreams with unwavering determination sparked a flame of inspiration within Maya. For the first time, she dared to imagine herself following in my footsteps and pursuing a career in medicine.My resilience became a guiding light for Maya, showing her that representation matters and that her dreams are not bound by the limitations imposed by societal norms. Through my example, Maya learned that she too could defy expectations and carve out her own path, regardless of the color of her skin or the barriers she may face along the way.As Maya embarks on her own journey towards a future in medicine, I am filled with pride and hope for the impact she will undoubtedly have on the world. By breaking down barriers and challenging stereotypes, Maya has the power to inspire future generations of aspiring healthcare professionals, paving the way for a more diverse and inclusive future in medicine.Together, we stand as living testament to the transformative power of resilience, determination, and the unwavering belief in the boundless potential that resides within each of us. And as Maya sets forth on her own path, I am confident that she will continue to inspire and uplift those around her, leaving an indelible mark on the world and shaping the future of medicine for generations to come. In the fall I will start up my journey at the great Hampton University majoring in biomedical sciences and start the journey for my sister and I too show her anything is possible.

As a young black student, the absence of representation weighed heavily on me. Rarely did I encounter teachers or classmates who looked like me or shared my cultural background. In the absence of role models who mirrored my own experiences, I often felt overlooked and marginalized. However, rather than succumbing to despair, I drew strength from the knowledge that representation matters. I realized that by embracing my identity and voice, I could serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for future generations. One of my greatest aspirations is to become a black obstetrician, a field in which representation is sorely lacking. According to recent statistics, black women make up only a small fraction of obstetricians in the United States, comprising just 2% of the workforce. This stark underrepresentation not only highlights the urgent need for greater diversity in medicine but also underscores the importance of role models who can inspire future generations of aspiring healthcare professionals.My journey of resilience and determination has not only shaped my own aspirations but has also inspired those closest to me, including my younger sister Maya. At just 11 years old, Maya had already internalized the notion that her options within the medical field were limited by the lack of representation she observed around her. Like me, she felt constrained by the pervasive image of predominantly white doctors, struggling to envision herself breaking into a field where she felt she didn't belong.However, when I shared with Maya my own aspirations of becoming a black doctor, something shifted within her. Suddenly, the barriers that once seemed insurmountable began to crumble, replaced by a newfound sense of possibility and empowerment. Seeing someone she admired and looked up to pursue their dreams with unwavering determination sparked a flame of inspiration within Maya. For the first time, she dared to imagine herself following in my footsteps and pursuing a career in medicine.My resilience became a guiding light for Maya, showing her that representation matters and that her dreams are not bound by the limitations imposed by societal norms. Through my example, Maya learned that she too could defy expectations and carve out her own path, regardless of the color of her skin or the barriers she may face along the way.As Maya embarks on her own journey towards a future in medicine, I am filled with pride and hope for the impact she will undoubtedly have on the world. By breaking down barriers and challenging stereotypes, Maya has the power to inspire future generations of aspiring healthcare professionals, paving the way for a more diverse and inclusive future in medicine.Together, we stand as living testament to the transformative power of resilience, determination, and the unwavering belief in the boundless potential that resides within each of us. And as Maya sets forth on her own path, I am confident that she will continue to inspire and uplift those around her, leaving an indelible mark on the world and shaping the future of medicine for generations to come.

I was 9 years old, sitting at the kitchen table with my mother, that I first encountered the word "grace". I had gotten into trouble at school, jeopardizing my attendance at my best friend's highly anticipated birthday party which at 9 years old was the biggest deal ever. As the weight of my actions settled upon me, I accepted the fact my inevitable consequence was missing out on the festivities. However, that Friday evening, my mother shattered my expectations with a simple yet profound act of kindness. Instead of enforcing my punishment (which I didn't know she was going to do), she ushered me into the car, and we drove to my friend's house. I was stunned, my young mind struggling to comprehend the sudden turn of events and why my mom changed her mind. My mother, a woman of unwavering resolve, had chosen to extend grace to me when I least expected it.In that moment, my mother imparted a lesson that would echo throughout my life: the importance of giving grace. She explained that grace is the act of showing kindness, forgiveness, and understanding, even when it is undeserved. It is a gesture of compassion that recognizes our shared humanity and acknowledges that we all make mistakes.As I matured the lesson of giving grace remained etched in my heart and mind. It became the guiding principle by which I navigated my interactions with others. Whether in moments of joy or conflict, I sought to extend grace to those around me, recognizing that we are all flawed and fallible beings in need of understanding and compassion. Now, at the age of 17, the impact of that transformative moment has only deepened. I have come to realize that giving grace is not only an act of kindness but also a fundamental aspect of human connection. It fosters empathy, cultivates understanding, and bridges the divides that separate us. In a world fraught with uncertainty and discord, the simple act of extending grace can serve as a beacon of hope and healing.my encounter with grace at the age of 9 has profoundly shaped the way I approach life and relationships. It has taught me the power of compassion, the beauty of forgiveness, and the importance of empathy. And as I continue on my journey, I carry with me the timeless wisdom imparted by my mother that in giving grace, we not only enrich the lives of others but also nourish our own souls.

As a young black student, the absence of representation weighed heavily on me. Rarely did I encounter teachers or classmates who looked like me or shared my cultural background. In the absence of role models who mirrored my own experiences, I often felt overlooked and marginalized. However, rather than succumbing to despair, I drew strength from the knowledge that representation matters. I realized that by embracing my identity and voice, I could serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for future generations.One of my greatest aspirations is to become a black obstetrician, a field in which representation is sorely lacking. According to recent statistics, black women make up only a small fraction of obstetricians in the United States, comprising just 2% of the workforce. This stark underrepresentation not only highlights the urgent need for greater diversity in medicine but also underscores the importance of role models who can inspire future generations of aspiring healthcare professionals.My journey of resilience and determination has not only shaped my own aspirations but has also inspired those closest to me, including my younger sister Maya. At just 11 years old, Maya had already internalized the notion that her options within the medical field were limited by the lack of representation she observed around her. Like me, she felt constrained by the pervasive image of predominantly white doctors, struggling to envision herself breaking into a field where she felt she didn't belong.However, when I shared with Maya my own aspirations of becoming a black doctor, something shifted within her. Suddenly, the barriers that once seemed insurmountable began to crumble, replaced by a newfound sense of possibility and empowerment. Seeing someone she admired and looked up to pursue their dreams with unwavering determination sparked a flame of inspiration within Maya. For the first time, she dared to imagine herself following in my footsteps and pursuing a career in medicine.My resilience became a guiding light for Maya, showing her that representation matters and that her dreams are not bound by the limitations imposed by societal norms. Through my example, Maya learned that she too could defy expectations and carve out her own path, regardless of the color of her skin or the barriers she may face along the way.Maya has the power to inspire future generations of aspiring healthcare professionals, paving the way for a more diverse and inclusive future in medicine. Together, we stand as living testament to the transformative power of resilience, determination, and the unwavering belief in the boundless potential that resides within each of us. And as Maya sets forth on her own path, I am confident that she will continue to inspire and uplift those around her, leaving an indelible mark on the world and shaping the future of medicine for generations to come.

As a young black student, the absence of representation weighed heavily on me. Rarely did I encounter teachers or classmates who looked like me or shared my cultural background. In the absence of role models who mirrored my own experiences, I often felt overlooked and marginalized. However, rather than succumbing to despair, I drew strength from the knowledge that representation matters. I realized that by embracing my identity and voice, I could serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for future generations.My journey towards self-empowerment reached a pivotal moment when I made the decision to switch schools. Stepping into a new environment filled with diversity and inclusivity, I felt a renewed sense of belonging and purpose. Here, amidst a community that celebrated diversity and embraced individuality, I discovered the power of my own voice. Freed from the constraints of conformity and expectation, I began to speak out, advocate for myself, and pursue my passions with unwavering determination. One of my greatest aspirations is to become a black obstetrician, a field in which representation is sorely lacking. According to recent statistics, black women make up only a small fraction of obstetricians in the United States, comprising just 2% of the workforce. This stark underrepresentation not only highlights the urgent need for greater diversity in medicine but also underscores the importance of role models who can inspire future generations of aspiring healthcare professionals.Despite facing discouragement and resistance along the way, I remain steadfast in my pursuit of this dream. I refuse to dim my light or shrink into the shadows to make others feel more comfortable. Instead, I embrace my confidence and assertiveness as strengths that empower me to break barriers and defy expectations. By refusing to conform to outdated stereotypes and societal norms, I hope to pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable future in medicine.From my earliest years in pre-kindergarten to the culmination of middle school, I navigated the corridors of education as one of the few black students in my class. Amidst a sea of unfamiliar faces, I grappled with a sense of isolation and invisibility, struggling to find my place in a predominantly white environment. Yet, despite the challenges and obstacles that loomed before me, I refused to let adversity define me. Instead, I embarked on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment, ultimately finding my voice and charting a path towards a future filled with purpose and possibility.

Since 2017, tennis has been more than just a sport to me; it has become a profound passion that has shaped my character and enriched my life in countless ways. From the moment I first stepped onto the court, I was captivated by the rhythm of the game, the precision of each shot, and the exhilaration of competition. Little did I know then that tennis would not only become an integral part of my high school experience but also a catalyst for personal growth and self-discovery. My journey with tennis began in 2017, a year that marked the beginning of a transformative chapter in my life. As a freshman in high school, I eagerly joined the tennis team, drawn to the sport's unique blend of athleticism, strategy, and mental fortitude. From the outset, I dedicated myself to honing my skills, spending countless hours on the court perfecting my strokes, refining my footwork, and mastering the intricacies of the game. As I progressed through my high school years, my commitment to tennis deepened, and I was fortunate enough to earn a spot on the varsity team as singles player as freshman. One of the most profound ways in which tennis has influenced my life is by helping me find my voice. As a naturally reserved individual, I often struggled to express myself and assert my opinions in social settings. However, on the tennis court, I discovered a newfound confidence and assertiveness that I never knew I possessed. With each match and practice session, I found myself growing more vocal, communicating with my teammates, and offering encouragement and support. Moreover, my journey in tennis took a significant turn when I was entrusted with the role of team captain. As a leader, I was tasked with not only motivating and inspiring my teammates but also with resolving conflicts and making strategic decisions under pressure. Serving as captain not only honed my leadership skills but also provided me with invaluable experience in public speaking and problem-solving. Whether addressing the team before a crucial match or strategizing during a tight set, I learned to communicate effectively, think critically, and remain calm under pressure.In retrospect, tennis has been much more than just a sport to me; it has been a journey of self-discovery, personal growth, and leadership development. Through the highs and lows of competition, I have learned invaluable lessons about resilience, determination, and the power of teamwork. Tennis has not only shaped my character but has also equipped me with the skills and confidence to navigate life's challenges with grace and resilience.