In my opinion, Calculus is important in the STEM field because it provides the essential tools needed to understand how the world changes and behaves, and as a high‑school senior who has taken advanced math and science courses, I’ve seen how often real problems depend on quantities that vary, accelerate, grow, or shrink. STEM fields almost never deal with static, unchanging situations; instead, they involve motion, rates, patterns, and systems that evolve over time. Calculus helps describe and predict these changes with precision, whether it’s analyzing how fast a chemical reaction occurs in biochemistry, determining the trajectory of a moving object in physics, or modeling how diseases spread in biology. In engineering, calculus is used to design structures, circuits, and machines that must respond to forces or changing conditions. In computer science and data analysis, calculus is behind optimization, algorithms, and the mathematical principles that support artificial intelligence. Derivatives help AI models understand how to adjust themselves to minimize errors, while integrals help analyze accumulated data or continuous trends. Without calculus, many of the technologies we depend on today, like medical imaging, climate modeling, flight engineering, and machine learning, would be less accurate or might not exist at all. Beyond practical applications, calculus trains students to think critically and analytically by breaking down complex problems into smaller, understandable parts. It teaches how one variable influence another and how small changes can create large impacts, which is essential for researchers and innovators who must anticipate outcomes or troubleshoot unexpected results. As someone interested in biochemistry and dermatological research, I know that calculus will help me understand reaction rates, molecular interactions, and data trends in scientific experiments. It provides the mathematical foundation for reading scientific journals, conducting laboratory research, and interpreting data accurately. Calculus also connects different STEM disciplines, showing how physics relates to engineering, how chemistry overlaps with biology, and how data science supports all of these fields. This interconnectedness is a major reason STEM advances so quickly, and calculus is the common language that ties it all together. Ultimately, calculus matters because it allows us to describe reality more accurately, solve problems more efficiently, and innovate more responsibly. For students like me who want to pursue STEM, learning calculus isn’t just a requirement, it’s an important step toward understanding the world at a deeper level and contributing to the scientific discoveries of the future and come up with solutions focused on formulas.

Diverse representation in STEM careers is important because it directly shapes the quality, impact, and fairness of scientific progress, and as a high‑school senior who has dedicated myself to advanced coursework and leadership opportunities, I have seen firsthand how different perspectives strengthen learning and innovation. STEM fields deal with complex, real‑world problems, and no single background or worldview can fully capture the needs of a diverse society. When people from various racial, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds enter STEM, they contribute unique insights that deepen the questions we ask, the methods we use, and the solutions we create. This diversity becomes especially important in areas like healthcare, technology, and environmental science, where decisions and discoveries affect millions of people. Many communities have historically been excluded from research or underserved by scientific advancements, which often leads to treatments, data, and products that don’t fully address their needs. Representation helps correct this by ensuring that professionals who understand those communities because they come from them, are part of the decision‑making and innovation process. It also strengthens trust between scientific institutions and the public. When people see doctors, engineers, researchers, or innovators who share their identities and experiences, it becomes easier to believe that science is meant for them, not just something happening around them. For younger students, representation serves as motivation and proof that they belong in advanced classes, competitive programs, or future STEM careers. Many students, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, hesitate to pursue STEM because they rarely see role models who reflect their identity, and increasing representation helps close that gap by showing what is possible. A diverse STEM workforce strengthens the field on a broader scale, especially as the use of AI becomes increasingly encouraged and integrated into scientific work. When teams include people with different life experiences, communication styles, and problem‑solving strategies, they become more innovative, more adaptable, and more capable of tackling global challenges. Bringing together individuals from varied backgrounds enriches collaboration, broadens creativity, and ensures that the solutions we develop reflect the full range of human needs. This diversity not only enhances the quality of current research and projects but also lays the groundwork for successful STEM advancements and discoveries for the next generation. As someone who values academic excellence and hopes to contribute to scientific research in the future, I believe diverse representation is not just a social goal, it is a scientific necessity. It ensures that progress benefits everyone, that opportunities are shared more equitably, and that the next generation of scientists has the confidence and support to continue pushing the boundaries of what STEM can achieve.

Pursuing a career in STEM is deeply connected to who I am, the communities I represent, and the impact I hope to make in the world. As a young woman, I grew up aware of the challenges and underrepresentation that women of color often face in scientific fields. In many of my advanced science classes, I rarely saw people who looked like me, women leading experiments, contributing to groundbreaking research, or shaping the future of scientific innovation. Instead of discouraging me, that lack of representation motivated me. It made me want to step into those spaces with confidence, create visibility where it has been missing, and inspire younger students who might otherwise feel unseen. This is why I am pursuing a career in biochemistry: not only to innovate in the field of skin‑care science but also to be a visible example of what is possible. My interest in STEM grew through challenging courses like Honors Chemistry, AP Environmental Science, and AP Biology, where I earned a 97 during the first quarter. These classes revealed how scientific understanding can directly improve health, confidence, and overall quality of life. The deeper I went into my studies, the more I recognized a pressing need for inclusive scientific research, especially in skin‑care science. Communities of color are often underrepresented in medical studies and product development, yet they face higher rates of certain skin conditions and respond differently to specific ingredients. I want to help change that by contributing research that considers all skin types and backgrounds, ensuring that scientific advancements are accessible, effective, and equitable. My academic journey has also been shaped by resilience. During my junior year, I suffered a serious volleyball injury that unexpectedly removed me from a sport that had always been a source of identity and joy. Losing volleyball so suddenly was emotionally challenging, but instead of giving in to discouragement, I redirected my focus. I committed myself even more strongly to my academics, maintained a 4.67 GPA, and continued supporting my teammates from the sidelines. That experience taught me how to adapt under pressure, a skill essential to scientific research, where setbacks, revisions, and perseverance are a natural part of every discovery. Being accepted to Baylor University was a milestone that felt like the culmination of years of dedication and determination. Baylor’s strong biochemistry program, its meaningful research opportunities, and its faith‑centered environment align with the values that guide both my academic journey and my personal growth. Receiving a merit scholarship was an incredible honor, and I am deeply grateful for it. However, the cost of attendance still places a significant financial strain on my family. My mother has worked tirelessly to support our household, but she cannot cover the remaining expenses alone. Additional financial support would allow me to pursue my degree without creating further hardship and would give me the freedom to fully engage in Baylor’s research, service, and leadership opportunities. With my STEM education, I hope to uplift communities in three meaningful ways: 1. Conducting research that improves skin‑care solutions for people of all backgrounds, especially those historically underserved. 2. Serving as a mentor and advocate for minority students in STEM, creating pathways and visibility for the next generation. 3. Using my experiences to challenge stereotypes and expand representation in scientific fields where women of color remain underrepresented. My education at Baylor will give me the foundation I need not only to excel academically but also to uplift the communities that shaped me. I am committed to becoming a scientist who leads with purpose, representation, and heart, one discovery at a time.

Pursuing a career in STEM is deeply connected to who I am, the communities I represent, and the impact I hope to make in the world. As a young African American woman, I grew up aware of the challenges and underrepresentation that women of color often face in scientific fields. In many of my advanced science classes, I rarely saw people who looked like me, women leading experiments, contributing to groundbreaking research, or shaping the future of scientific innovation. Instead of discouraging me, that lack of representation motivated me. It made me want to step into those spaces with confidence, create visibility where it has been missing, and inspire younger students who might otherwise feel unseen. This is why I am pursuing a career in biochemistry: not only to innovate in the field of skin‑care science but also to be a visible example of what is possible. My interest in STEM grew through challenging courses like Honors Chemistry, AP Environmental Science, and AP Biology, where I earned a 97 during the first quarter. These classes revealed how scientific understanding can directly improve health, confidence, and overall quality of life. The deeper I went into my studies, the more I recognized a pressing need for inclusive scientific research, especially in skin‑care science. Communities of color are often underrepresented in medical studies and product development, yet they face higher rates of certain skin conditions and respond differently to specific ingredients. I want to help change that by contributing research that considers all skin types and backgrounds, ensuring that scientific advancements are accessible, effective, and equitable. My academic journey has also been shaped by resilience. During my junior year, I suffered a serious volleyball injury that unexpectedly removed me from a sport that had always been a source of identity and joy. Losing volleyball so suddenly was emotionally challenging, but instead of giving in to discouragement, I redirected my focus. I committed myself even more strongly to my academics, maintained a 4.67 GPA, and continued supporting my teammates from the sidelines. That experience taught me how to adapt under pressure, a skill essential to scientific research, where setbacks, revisions, and perseverance are a natural part of every discovery. Being accepted to Baylor University was a milestone that felt like a combination of years of dedication and determination. Baylor’s strong biochemistry program, its meaningful research opportunities, and its faith‑centered environment align with the values that guide both my academic journey and my personal growth. Receiving a merit scholarship was an incredible honor, and I am deeply grateful for it. However, the cost of attendance still places a significant financial strain on my family. My mother has worked tirelessly to support our household, but she cannot cover the remaining expenses alone. Additional financial support would allow me to pursue my degree without creating further hardship and would give me the freedom to fully engage in Baylor’s research, service, and leadership opportunities. With my STEM education, I hope to uplift communities in three meaningful ways: 1. Conducting research that improves skin‑care solutions for people of all backgrounds, especially those historically underserved. 2. Serving as a mentor and advocate for minority students in STEM, creating pathways and visibility for the next generation. 3. Using my experiences to challenge stereotypes and expand representation in scientific fields where women of color remain underrepresented. My education at Baylor will give me the foundation I need not only to excel academically but also to uplift the communities that shaped me. I am committed to becoming a scientist who leads with purpose, representation, and heart, one discovery at a time.

My goal is to use my education to make the world a healthier, more confident, and more compassionate place. I plan to pursue a career in biochemistry, focusing on innovations in skin‑care science and personalized health solutions. Skin conditions can deeply affect self‑esteem, emotional well‑being, and quality of life. By developing treatments that are more effective, more accessible, and scientifically advanced, I hope to help people feel comfortable in their own skin, something that may seem small but can transform the way someone walks through the world. Science is my way of contributing to meaningful, everyday improvements in people’s lives. My desire to make a positive impact is rooted not only in a love for science but in the adversity my family has endured. My mother, a military veteran, has shown me resilience through every chapter of her life. She grew up with limited resources and faced cultural and economic challenges long before I was born. Yet she built a stable life through sheer perseverance and an unwavering commitment to giving her children opportunities she never had. Watching her work long hours as government contractor while still making time for our family taught me the importance of discipline, sacrifice, and hope. Her strength inspired my own. During my junior year, I experienced a severe volleyball injury that threatened my routine, confidence, and academic momentum. Volleyball had always been more than a sport to me; it was part of my identity. Suddenly losing that part of myself could have shattered my motivation. Instead, I leaned on the lessons my mother had instilled in me: keep going, adapt, and never let setbacks define you. I shifted my focus to my academics, ultimately maintaining a 4.67 GPA during one of the most challenging times in my life. I continued showing up for my team, proving that leadership isn’t limited to active participation; sometimes it’s found in quiet persistence and support from the sidelines. These experiences taught me that adversity can be a powerful teacher. It builds empathy. It builds purpose. And it builds the determination to make life better for others. My education in biochemistry will give me the tools to turn scientific curiosity into tangible improvements in health and wellness. But my family’s strength, sacrifice, and resilience are what give my goals meaning. With the education I pursue, I hope to honor my mother, uplift my community, and contribute to a future where science becomes a tool for confidence, healing, and empowerment, one person at a time.

Pursuing a career in a STEM field, specifically biochemistry which will allow me to contribute to society by addressing real‑world health challenges, expanding scientific knowledge, and improving the quality of life for diverse communities. STEM fields are built on innovation, discovery, and problem‑solving, and I am passionate about using these tools to make meaningful change. Through biochemistry, I hope to bridge the gap between scientific research and everyday wellness, especially in the area of skin‑care science and personalized health solutions. My interest in STEM began with a simple curiosity about how the world works, but it grew into a purpose through my experiences in advanced science courses such as Honors Chemistry, AP Environmental Science, and AP Biology. These classes taught me that science is more than memorizing formulas or completing labs, it is about understanding the systems that impact human health, the environment, and the future of our communities. When I earned a 97 in AP Biology during the first quarter, it affirmed that I not only loved the subject but also had the discipline and motivation to pursue science at a deeper level. A career in biochemistry will allow me to make a positive impact by contributing to advancements in skin‑care science, an area that is often underestimated but deeply important. Skin conditions like eczema, acne, and hyperpigmentation affect millions of people, shaping confidence, mental health, and overall quality of life. By researching molecular interactions and developing more effective treatments, I can help people feel healthier and more confident. STEM careers create solutions that extend far beyond the lab, and I want my work to be part of that ripple effect. My personal experiences have also shaped how I plan to serve society through science. During my junior year, I experienced a serious volleyball injury that challenged me physically and emotionally. Instead of stepping back, I used the setback to refocus on academics, maintain a 4.67 GPA, and support my team from the sidelines. This experience taught me resilience, empathy, and the importance of adapting to unexpected obstacles. More importantly, it showed me the impact of perseverance, as one of my younger teammates later told me I helped her believe she could overcome her own challenges. STEM careers rely on the ability to inspire, collaborate, and lead, and resilience has taught me how to do that. My family has also played a large role in shaping my desire to contribute to society. My mother, a U.S. military veteran who now works for a government contractor, has shown me the meaning of service and sacrifice. Watching her navigate challenges while providing for our family taught me the value of hard work and the importance of using your abilities to help others. That is the kind of impact I hope to have through STEM, creating solutions that serve, uplift, and empower people. Additionally, STEM careers have the potential to make communities healthier and more equitable. Through volunteer work with Habitat for Humanity, the San Antonio Food Bank, and the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, I have witnessed firsthand how health disparities affect underserved populations. These experiences reinforce my commitment to ensuring that the advancements I contribute to in biochemistry are accessible and beneficial to all communities, not just those with financial means. Ultimately, pursuing a career in STEM will allow me to combine my passion for science, my resilience through adversity, and my desire to help others into meaningful work that improves lives. By advancing skin‑care health, conducting research, and promoting inclusive scientific innovation, I hope to positively impact society, one discovery at a time.

I have always been driven by curiosity, especially about the ways science can improve lives and solve problems that affect people every day. Over time, this curiosity has grown into a deep passion for biochemistry, particularly in the field of skin‑care science. Skin plays a major role in confidence, comfort, and overall health, and the possibility of helping people feel better in their own skin inspires me. Through rigorous coursework like Honors Chemistry, AP Environmental Science, and AP Biology, where I earned a 97 during the first quarter, I discovered not only how much I enjoy scientific analysis, but also how much potential the field has to create meaningful, real‑world impact. My academic journey, however, is only one part of who I am. The values that drive me; resilience, compassion, independence, and purpose come from the experiences my family and I have faced. My mother is a U.S. military veteran who now works for a government contractor. Her service taught me discipline and strength, but it also meant witnessing the challenges she endured transitioning into civilian life. Despite her dedication and long hours, the financial demands of college remain difficult for her to meet. Growing up in a household where hard work was constant but financial flexibility was limited taught me to be resourceful, grateful, and driven to create opportunities for myself. One of my biggest personal challenges came during my junior year, when I suffered a serious volleyball injury. Volleyball had always been a foundation of my confidence and identity, and suddenly losing the ability to play was emotionally overwhelming. It would have been easy to withdraw or lose momentum academically, but I made a conscious choice to focus on what I could control. Even while sidelined, I showed up for my team, supported my teammates, and continued demonstrating leadership in a new way. At the same time, I dedicated myself fully to my academics, ultimately finishing the year with a 4.67 GPA. This experience revealed to me that true resilience isn’t just about being strong, it’s about finding purpose in difficult moments and continuing to move forward. What surprised me most was that my perseverance inspired others. One of the younger players told me that watching me remain focused and optimistic despite my injury helped her push through her own challenges. That moment was meaningful to me because it showed that resilience can be a quiet form of leadership, one that encourages others without you even realizing it. Experiences like these have strengthened my commitment to a future career in biochemistry. I hope to become a research scientist specializing in skin‑care science and personalized health solutions. I want to develop treatments and products that not only improve skin health but also improve self‑esteem and overall, well‑being. My goal is to make science accessible, innovative, and impactful, especially for communities with limited access to effective health resources. Being accepted to Baylor University and receiving a merit scholarship was an incredible honor. Additional financial support would make it possible for me to pursue my education without placing a heavy burden on my family. I want to honor my mother’s sacrifices by working hard, giving back, and building a career dedicated to improving lives. Through science, service, and resilience, I hope to make a positive difference in the world, one discovery, one breakthrough, and one person at a time.

Resilience is not something I learned from a single moment, but from a series of challenges that tested my sense of identity, purpose, and strength. One of the most defining experiences happened during my junior year, when I suffered a serious volleyball injury. Volleyball had always been a central part of my life, a place where I felt confident, motivated, and connected to my teammates. When I was suddenly forced off the court, I felt as though a part of me had been taken away. The injury left me not only physically limited, but also emotionally shaken, unsure of how I would move forward academically or personally. But I also knew that how I responded mattered. I decided that if I could not contribute to my team through playing, I would contribute through leadership and perseverance. I poured my energy into maintaining academic excellence, ultimately finishing the year with a 4.67 GPA. I made it a priority to attend every practice, game, and team meeting, not out of obligation, but because I knew my presence could still make a difference. I encouraged my teammates, helped strategize, and reminded them that setbacks do not define us; our response to them does. What I did not expect was how deeply this would impact one of the younger players on our team. She was struggling with confidence, both academically and athletically, and felt overwhelmed by her own challenges. One day after practice, she told me that watching me stay positive and committed despite my injury helped her realize she didn’t have to give up when things got hard. She said that seeing me show up, support others, and continue working toward my goals inspired her to push through her self-doubt and believe in her own potential. Her words made me realize that resilience has a ripple effect. Sometimes the strength we show in private moments, studying through pain, cheering from the sidelines, refusing to let disappointment define us, can motivate someone else to rise above their own struggles. My experience taught me that leadership isn’t only about performing well or being in the spotlight. It is also about modeling perseverance, compassion, and dedication when no one expects it. Through this challenge, I learned that resilience can be a gift we give to others simply by choosing not to quit. My injury may have taken me off the court, but it helped me step into a new role, one where I could inspire others to find their strength, just as I found mine.

My passion for research comes from a deep curiosity about how scientific principles can be used to solve real‑world problems, especially those that affect people’s daily lives. I am particularly drawn to biochemistry with a focus on skin care because it blends creativity with rigorous scientific analysis. Skin is the first thing people see, and for many, skin conditions can affect self‑esteem, confidence, and even overall well‑being. The idea that I could contribute to solutions that help others feel healthier and more confident inspires me to pursue this path. My interest truly came alive through advanced courses such as Honors Chemistry, AP Environmental Science, and AP Biology, where I earned a 97 in the first quarter, experiences that strengthened my analytical skills and deepened my fascination with the molecular world. While academics have shaped my goals, my identity has been profoundly influenced by the trials my family and I have faced over the years. My mother is a U.S. military veteran who now works for a government contractor. Her strength and sacrifice have always been a guiding force in my life. After serving her country, she carried the same discipline and resilience into her civilian career, but financial challenges remained a reality for our family. Despite her dedication and hard work, she has not been able to contribute significantly to my college tuition, and from a young age I learned the importance of independence, responsibility, and determination. Watching her navigate difficult circumstances has shaped my understanding of perseverance and has fueled my commitment to building a future that honors her sacrifices. One of the most defining challenges I faced personally was a serious volleyball injury during my junior year. Until then, volleyball had been a major part of my life, my source of confidence, community, and joy. When I was suddenly unable to play, I felt like a part of my identity had been taken away. But this moment forced me to discover a deeper resilience within myself. Instead of allowing the setback to derail my momentum, I redirected my energy into academics, maintaining a 4.67 GPA through discipline, time management, and a refusal to give up on my goals. I learned that strength isn’t just found on the court; sometimes it’s found in quiet moments of determination, in choosing to show up and keep going even when things get hard. Beyond academics, I have committed myself to serving the community through organizations such as Habitat for Humanity, The San Antonio Food Bank, and the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. These experiences have taught me the importance of compassion, humility, and leadership. Serving others, especially families facing difficulties, has helped me understand the wider impact that kindness and generosity can have. It also strengthened my desire to pursue a career where I can improve lives through scientific innovation. My ultimate goal is to become a research scientist in biochemistry, developing advancements in skin care and personalized health solutions. I want to contribute to discoveries that not only push science forward but genuinely improve people’s lives. Whether it is through developing treatments for chronic skin conditions, improving accessibility to effective skin care, or contributing to research that expands our understanding of human biology, I am committed to using my education to make a positive, meaningful impact on the world. With the support of this scholarship, I will be able to continue my education, expand my research experience, and move closer to becoming the kind of scientist who not only seeks discovery but uses it to uplift others.

My relationship with Jesus has shaped every part of who I am, my character, my values, my sense of purpose, and the way I move through the world. Growing up in a Christian home and attending a Christian school provided me with a foundation built on Scripture, prayer, and intentional discipleship. But it was through my personal relationship with Jesus that faith moved from something I learned about to something I lived out every day. At my Christian school, faith wasn’t just a subject taught in a classroom; it was a way of life woven into everything, academics, athletics, friendships, and service. Chapel services, Bible courses, and teachers who modeled Christlike character all helped deepen my faith. Yet it was the challenges I faced that strengthened it. When I endured a major volleyball injury, my faith became more than words on a page. I learned what it meant to rely on Jesus for strength, identity, and hope when circumstances were uncertain. Instead of seeing the injury as a setback, I saw it as an invitation to grow spiritually. I stepped into a mentorship role with younger athletes and discovered how God can use hardship to produce compassion, leadership, and resilience. Jesus taught me that faith is not passive; it transforms how we respond to difficulty, how we treat others, and how we pursue our calling. That perspective guided me throughout my academic journey. In the classroom, my faith shaped the way I interacted with peers, offering encouragement when they struggled and demonstrating integrity even when no one was watching. As a science student, it strengthened my sense of wonder, seeing God’s fingerprints in the complexity and beauty of creation. It reminded me that pursuing knowledge is another way of drawing closer to Him. As I step into the next season of my education, I plan to carry this faith with me intentionally and boldly. I want my relationship with Jesus to guide not only my actions but also the purpose behind my career. My goal is to earn a degree in Biochemistry and eventually contribute to dermatological and pharmaceutical research, particularly in developing accessible skincare solutions for underserved communities. I see this work as an act of service, reflecting Christ’s compassion, His healing, and His heart for those who are overlooked. Practically, I plan to implement my faith by staying rooted in prayer, staying connected to a local church, and seeking opportunities to serve others both academically and personally. I hope to be a light in my university community by showing kindness, offering mentorship, and leading with humility. Above all, I want others to see Christ through how I study, how I treat people, and how I pursue excellence for His glory. My relationship with Jesus has transformed my life, and as I continue forward in my education, I pray that my faith will remain the foundation of everything I do, allowing me to shine His light wherever He leads me.

I have worked to positively impact my community through service, mentorship, and academic leadership, each area allowing me to connect with people in meaningful ways. Over the past several years, I have contributed over 100 hours of community service through school outreach programs and local projects, consistently showing up where help was needed most. Through activities such as volunteering at events, supporting educational programs, and participating in service projects, I learned the value of being present and reliable. These experiences helped me develop strong communication skills and a genuine appreciation for the diverse needs within my community. They also created a pattern of visible service that encouraged younger students to get involved, demonstrating how one person’s actions can inspire broader participation. One of the most meaningful ways I created change was through mentorship following a major volleyball injury. What could have been a setback became an opportunity to lead in a new capacity. Instead of stepping away from the team, I transitioned into a role that focused on guiding younger athletes, fostering inclusion, and helping them develop perseverance. I encouraged them to view challenges as opportunities for growth, modeling resilience through my own experience. This shift helped build a more supportive team culture, one rooted in empathy, encouragement, and unity. It also showed me that leadership is not defined by position or physical ability; it is defined by the ability to influence others positively, especially during difficult times. In the academic setting, I have made an impact by assisting teachers and peers as a science aide. I supported classmates in subjects such as biology and chemistry, helping them understand complex concepts and build confidence in challenging coursework. Many students who initially doubted their abilities found encouragement through consistent support and explanation. By helping create a more inclusive and welcoming learning environment, I played a small part in making STEM feel more accessible, particularly for students who might have been hesitant to explore it further. Looking ahead, I plan to use my Biochemistry degree to drive lasting change through research in pharmaceutical and dermatological science. I am especially passionate about developing inclusive skincare solutions for conditions such as eczema, issues that disproportionately affect underrepresented communities yet often remain underserved by available products. By combining scientific research with my commitment to empathy and service, I hope to expand access to safe, affordable, and effective skincare treatments that improve quality of life. Ultimately, my goal is to continue being a “coffee bean”, a positive force that transforms its environment from within. Whether in the lab, in my community, or in future leadership roles, I intend to use my education to uplift others, foster innovation, and create solutions that promote health, confidence, and equity for all.