Growing up, my education was a big part of my life. I have always loved school and have had an insatiable curiosity for learning. This passion has led me to pursue a variety of interests, from biology and psychology to foreign languages and medicine, leading me to major in neuroscience and linguistics. As a rising high school senior, my aspiration is to conduct neurobiology research with the ultimate aim of developing a drug to aid individuals suffering from neurodegenerative disorders. It is a subject I have been drawn to from a young age, stemming from when I would follow my mom as she helped people suffering these diseases. Seeing the effects of these tragic illnesses firsthand began my empathetic passion for this issue. This goal took root when I discovered my interest for microbiology and toxicology, and it is a path I am already treading by conducting independent research on various neuroscience topics, such as the effects of stress on the body. I have been fortunate to immerse myself in various academic and extracurricular activities that align with my interests. These experiences have not only enriched my understanding of the field but have also honed my research skills, preparing me for the rigorous academic journey that lies ahead. For instance, I have been involved in the Brain Bee Competition, which deepened my fascination with the brain and its complexities. My volunteer work with UNICEF and Inima Din Inima at Ukrainian refugee camps in Moldova has shown me the importance of healthcare in crisis situations. These experiences have reinforced my desire to make a difference in the health field. My education will allow me to bridge the gap between scientific research and practical healthcare applications. My studies will give me a crucial basis of knowledge for future endeavors. By working closely with experienced professors, researchers, and healthcare professionals, I aim to develop new treatments that can be implemented in clinical settings. This could improve the quality of life for patients and provide hope for families affected by these devastating diseases. However, none of this would be possible without an education. Additionally, my background in foreign languages, including Romanian, Spanish, and Greek, will enable me to communicate effectively with diverse populations. This skill will undeniably prove invaluable in a healthcare setting, where understanding and empathy are crucial. My experience tutoring high school students in Kyiv, Ukraine in English and biology has also taught me the importance of education and mentorship in empowering others. My education will not only shape my future career but also have a broader impact on the health field. Through pursuing my passions and staying determined in my studies, I hope to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by neurodegenerative disorders. This work could significantly impact not only my life but also the lives of countless others who suffer from these conditions. The Deborah Thomas Scholarship Award would be instrumental in helping me achieve these goals and fulfill my potential as a future healthcare professional. It would alleviate some of the financial burden of my education, allowing me to focus on my studies and research. I am determined to make the most of this opportunity and contribute meaningfully to the field of neurobiology.

Growing up, my education was a big part of my life. I have always loved school and have had an insatiable curiosity for learning. This passion has led me to pursue a variety of interests, from biology and psychology to foreign languages and medicine. As a rising high school senior, my aspiration is to conduct neurobiology research with the ultimate aim of developing a drug to aid individuals suffering from neurodegenerative disorders. It is a subject I have been drawn to from a young age, stemming from when I would follow my mom as she helped people suffering these diseases. Seeing the effects of these tragic illnesses first hand began my empathetic passion for this issue. This goal took root when I discovered my interest for microbiology and toxicology, and it is a path I am already treading by conducting independent research on various neuroscience topics, such as the effects of stress on the body. I have been fortunate to immerse myself in various academic and extracurricular activities that align with my interests. These experiences have not only enriched my understanding of the field but have also honed my research skills, preparing me for the rigorous academic journey that lies ahead. For instance, I have been involved in the Brain Bee Competition, which deepened my fascination with the brain and its complexities. My volunteer work with UNICEF and Inima Din Inima at Ukrainian refugee camps in Moldova has shown me the importance of healthcare in crisis situations. These experiences have reinforced my desire to make a difference in the health field. My education will allow me to bridge the gap between scientific research and practical healthcare applications. My studies will give me a crucial basis of knowledge for future endeavors. By working closely with experienced professors, researchers, and healthcare professionals, I aim to develop new treatments that can be implemented in clinical settings. This could improve the quality of life for patients and provide hope for families affected by these devastating diseases. However, none of this would be possible without an education. Additionally, my background in foreign languages, including Romanian, Spanish, and Greek, will enable me to communicate effectively with diverse populations. This skill will undeniably prove invaluable in a healthcare setting, where understanding and empathy are crucial. My experience tutoring high school students in Kyiv, Ukraine in English and biology has also taught me the importance of education and mentorship in empowering others. My education will not only shape my future career but also have a broader impact on the health field. Through pursuing my passions and staying determined in my studies, I hope to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by neurodegenerative disorders. This work could significantly impact not only my life but also the lives of countless others who suffer from these conditions. This scholarship = would be instrumental in helping me achieve these goals and fulfill my potential as a future healthcare professional. It would alleviate some of the financial burden of my education, allowing me to focus on my studies and research. I am determined to make the most of this opportunity and contribute meaningfully to the field of neurobiology.

One of the best hugs I have ever received was from a little Ukrainian boy in a rural village in Moldova. Last summer, I dedicated my three months off from my studies to supporting people devastated by the conflict in Ukraine. I traveled to refugee camps across Moldova, delivering food and resources. Aside from the occasional plombir (classic Eastern European ice cream) bought for the kids, we strove to provide whole, nutrient-dense foods to the refugees. On one occasion, we even picked strawberries from a local farm to bring to a group of Ukrainian siblings separated from their parents. Aiding people in underprivileged situations and areas is a lifetime commitment and goal of mine. It is these people who do not have access to resources to learn about medical discoveries, particularly those concerning the importance of nutrition. I have always been passionate about biology and health, and I am planning to major in these fields in college. Through my studies, I aim to deepen my understanding of how nutritional choices can prevent, slow down, and sometimes reverse major medical conditions like cancer, heart disease, and autoimmune disorders. This knowledge will be crucial in educating others about the importance of nutrition. My experience volunteering at refugee camps has shown me the impact that access to nutritious food can have on people's health and well-being. Many of the refugees I met were unaware of the benefits of healthy and nutritious foods. By providing them with healthy food options and educating them about the importance of nutrition, we were able to make a positive impact on their lives. In addition to my volunteer work, I have also been involved in research concerning the medical benefits of various plants and fungi. This experience has given me a deeper understanding of the science behind how nutrition can affect our health. Furthermore, I have tutored high school students in Kyiv, Ukraine, in English and Biology through the ENGin program. This has allowed me to share my knowledge and passion for health and nutrition with others. If awarded this scholarship, I would continue to educate and assist patients and their families on ways to improve their health through better nutritional choices. I would use my education and experiences to create resources that make it easier for people to access and understand the importance of nutrition. Ultimately, my goal is to make a positive impact on the health and well-being of others, particularly those in underprivileged situations. By educating people about the importance of nutrition, I believe we can improve their quality of life and help prevent and manage major medical conditions. Thank you for considering my application for the Philippe Forton Scholarship.

Various leadership experiences that have shaped me into the person I am today. As the co-captain of the freshman basketball team, I learned how to communicate effectively with both my teammates and coaches. This role taught me the importance of teamwork and how to motivate others, even during challenging times. One of my most meaningful leadership experiences was organizing a fundraiser for the conflict in Ukraine through my high school's Key Club. I coordinated efforts to raise awareness and funds, which helped provide essential supplies to those affected. This experience was deeply personal for me, as I later volunteered at Ukrainian refugee camps in Moldova with the Inima din Inima Organization. Volunteering there, I saw firsthand the impact of our efforts and the importance of community support. Additionally, I tutor high school students in Kyiv, Ukraine, in English and Biology through ENGin. This has allowed me to connect with students from different backgrounds and help them achieve their academic goals. These experiences have not only improved my leadership skills but also fueled my passion for helping others. I am committed to continuing this work in college, where I plan to major in biology and neuroscience. I believe that my leadership experiences have prepared me well for the challenges ahead, and I aspire to conduct neurobiology research and earn a MD/PhD dual degree with the ultimate aim of developing a drug to aid individuals suffering from neurodegenerative disorders. By engaging in research, I hope to uncover new insights that could lead to potential cures for diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. Leadership skills are crucial in this field and will aid me in enhancing the impact and efficiency of projects. This work could significantly impact not only my life but also the lives of countless others who suffer from these conditions. It is a subject I have been drawn to from a young age, stemming from when I would follow my mom as she helped people suffering these diseases. Seeing the effects of these tragic illnesses first hand began my empathetic passion for this issue. This goal took root when I discovered my interest for microbiology and toxicology, and it is a path I am already treading by conducting independent and group research on various neuroscience topics, such as the effects of stress on the body. I am determined to make the most of this opportunity and contribute meaningfully as a leader in the field of neurobiology.

I learned how to read when I was 4 years old and ever since then, I have been fascinated by the power of learning to open new worlds and perspectives, constantly seeking out diverse and challenging materials to broaden my understanding. This passion has led me to pursue a variety of interests, from biology and psychology to foreign languages and medicine. As a rising high school senior, my aspiration is to conduct neurobiology research with the ultimate aim of developing a drug to aid individuals suffering from neurodegenerative disorders. It is a subject I have been drawn to from a young age, stemming from when I would follow my mom as she helped people suffering these diseases. Seeing the effects of these tragic illnesses first hand began my empathetic passion for this issue. This goal took root when I discovered my interest for microbiology and toxicology, and it is a path I am already treading by conducting independent research on various neuroscience topics, such as the effects of stress on the body. I have been fortunate to immerse myself in various academic and extracurricular activities that align with my interests. These experiences have not only enriched my understanding of the field but have also honed my research skills, preparing me for the rigorous academic journey that lies ahead. For instance, I have been involved in the Brain Bee Competition, which deepened my fascination with the brain and its complexities. My volunteer work with UNICEF and Inima Din Inima at Ukrainian refugee camps in Moldova has shown me the importance of healthcare in crisis situations. These experiences have reinforced my desire to make a difference in the health field. My education will allow me to bridge the gap between scientific research and practical healthcare applications. My studies will give me a crucial basis of knowledge for future endeavors. By working closely with experienced professors, researchers, and healthcare professionals, I aim to develop new treatments that can be implemented in clinical settings. This could improve the quality of life for patients and provide hope for families affected by these devastating diseases. However, none of this would be possible without an education. Additionally, my background in foreign languages, including Romanian, Spanish, and Greek, will enable me to communicate effectively with diverse populations. This skill will undeniably prove invaluable in a healthcare setting, where understanding and empathy are crucial. My experience tutoring high school students in Kyiv, Ukraine in English and biology has also taught me the importance of education and mentorship in empowering others. My education will not only shape my future career but also have a broader impact on the health field. Through pursuing my passions and staying determined in my studies, I hope to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by neurodegenerative disorders. This work could significantly impact not only my life but also the lives of countless others who suffer from these conditions. The Our Destiny Our Future Scholarship would be instrumental in helping me achieve these goals and fulfill my potential as a future healthcare professional. It would alleviate some of the financial burden of my education, allowing me to focus on my studies and research. I am determined to make the most of this opportunity and contribute meaningfully to the field of neurobiology.

I learned how to read when I was 4 years old and ever since then, I have been fascinated by the power of learning to open new worlds and perspectives, constantly seeking out diverse and challenging materials to broaden my understanding. This passion has led me to pursue a variety of interests, from biology and psychology to foreign languages and medicine. As a rising high school senior, my aspiration is to conduct neurobiology research with the ultimate aim of developing a drug to aid individuals suffering from neurodegenerative disorders. It is a subject I have been drawn to from a young age, stemming from when I would follow my mom as she helped people suffering these diseases. Seeing the effects of these tragic illnesses first hand began my empathetic passion for this issue. This goal took root when I discovered my interest for microbiology and toxicology, and it is a path I am already treading by conducting independent research on various neuroscience topics, such as the effects of stress on the body. I have been fortunate to immerse myself in various academic and extracurricular activities that align with my interests. These experiences have not only enriched my understanding of the field but have also honed my research skills, preparing me for the rigorous academic journey that lies ahead. For instance, I have been involved in the Brain Bee Competition, which deepened my fascination with the brain and its complexities. My volunteer work with UNICEF and Inima Din Inima at Ukrainian refugee camps in Moldova has shown me the importance of healthcare in crisis situations. These experiences have reinforced my desire to make a difference in the health field. My education will allow me to bridge the gap between scientific research and practical healthcare applications. My studies will give me a crucial basis of knowledge for future endeavors. By working closely with experienced professors, researchers, and healthcare professionals, I aim to develop new treatments that can be implemented in clinical settings. This could improve the quality of life for patients and provide hope for families affected by these devastating diseases. However, none of this would be possible without an education. Additionally, my background in foreign languages, including Romanian, Spanish, and Greek, will enable me to communicate effectively with diverse populations. This skill will undeniably prove invaluable in a healthcare setting, where understanding and empathy are crucial. My experience tutoring high school students in Kyiv, Ukraine in English and biology has also taught me the importance of education and mentorship in empowering others. My education will not only shape my future career but also have a broader impact on the health field. Through pursuing my passions and staying determined in my studies, I hope to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by neurodegenerative disorders. This work could significantly impact not only my life but also the lives of countless others who suffer from these conditions. The Our Destiny Our Future Scholarship would be instrumental in helping me achieve these goals and fulfill my potential as a future healthcare professional. It would alleviate some of the financial burden of my education, allowing me to focus on my studies and research. I am determined to make the most of this opportunity and contribute meaningfully to the field of neurobiology.

My actions inspired by my inquisitive nature and insatiable desire to help others are truly what makes me a non-traditional student. Growing up, my education was a big part of my life. I have always loved school and have had an insatiable curiosity for learning. This passion has led me to pursue a variety of interests, from biology and psychology to foreign languages and medicine. As a rising high school senior, my aspiration is to conduct neurobiology research with the ultimate aim of developing a drug to aid individuals suffering from neurodegenerative disorders. It is a subject I have been drawn to from a young age, stemming from when I would follow my mom as she helped people suffering from these diseases. Seeing the effects of these tragic illnesses firsthand began my empathetic passion for this issue. This goal took root when I discovered my interest for microbiology and toxicology, and it is a path I am already treading by conducting independent research on various neuroscience topics, such as the effects of stress on the body. I have been fortunate to immerse myself in various academic and extracurricular activities that align with my interests. These experiences have not only enriched my understanding of the field but have also honed my research skills, preparing me for the rigorous academic journey that lies ahead. For instance, I have been involved in the Brain Bee Competition, which deepened my fascination with the brain and its complexities. My volunteer work with UNICEF and Inima Din Inima at Ukrainian refugee camps in Moldova has shown me the importance of healthcare in crisis situations. These experiences have reinforced my desire to make a difference in the health field. My education will allow me to bridge the gap between scientific research and practical healthcare applications. My studies will give me a crucial basis of knowledge for future endeavors. By working closely with experienced professors, researchers, and healthcare professionals, I aim to develop new treatments that can be implemented in clinical settings. This could improve the quality of life for patients and provide hope for families affected by these devastating diseases. However, none of this would be possible without an education. Additionally, my background in foreign languages, including Romanian, Spanish, and Greek, will enable me to communicate effectively with diverse populations. This skill will undeniably prove invaluable in a healthcare setting, where understanding and empathy are crucial. My experience tutoring high school students in Kyiv, Ukraine in English and biology has also taught me the importance of education and mentorship in empowering others. My education will not only shape my future career but also have a broader impact on the health field. Through pursuing my passions and staying determined in my studies, I hope to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by neurodegenerative disorders. This work could significantly impact not only my life but also the lives of countless others who suffer from these conditions. The Carol B. Warren, You are Loved Scholarship would be instrumental in helping me achieve these goals and fulfill my potential as a future healthcare professional. It would alleviate some of the financial burden of my education, allowing me to focus on my studies and research. I am determined to make the most of this opportunity and contribute meaningfully to the field of neurobiology as a non-traditional student.

Growing up, my education was a big part of my life. I have always loved school and have had an insatiable curiosity for learning. This passion has led me to pursue a variety of interests, from biology and psychology to foreign languages and medicine. As a rising high school senior, my aspiration is to conduct neurobiology research with the ultimate aim of developing a drug to aid individuals suffering from neurodegenerative disorders. It is a subject I have been drawn to from a young age, stemming from when I would follow my mom as she helped people suffering these diseases. Seeing the effects of these tragic illnesses firsthand began my empathetic passion for this issue. This goal took root when I discovered my interest for microbiology and toxicology, and it is a path I am already treading by conducting independent research on various neuroscience topics, such as the effects of stress on the body. I have been fortunate to immerse myself in various academic and extracurricular activities that align with my interests. These experiences have not only enriched my understanding of the field but have also honed my research skills, preparing me for the rigorous academic journey that lies ahead. For instance, I have been involved in the Brain Bee Competition, which deepened my fascination with the brain and its complexities. My volunteer work with UNICEF and Inima Din Inima at Ukrainian refugee camps in Moldova has shown me the importance of healthcare in crisis situations. These experiences have reinforced my desire to make a difference in the health field. My education will allow me to bridge the gap between scientific research and practical healthcare applications. My studies will give me a crucial basis of knowledge for future endeavors. By working closely with experienced professors, researchers, and healthcare professionals, I aim to develop new treatments that can be implemented in clinical settings. This could improve the quality of life for patients and provide hope for families affected by these devastating diseases. However, none of this would be possible without an education. Additionally, my background in foreign languages, including Romanian, Spanish, and Greek, will enable me to communicate effectively with diverse populations. This skill will undeniably prove invaluable in a healthcare setting, where understanding and empathy are crucial. My experience tutoring high school students in Kyiv, Ukraine in English and biology has also taught me the importance of education and mentorship in empowering others. My education will not only shape my future career but also have a broader impact on the health field. Through pursuing my passions and staying determined in my studies, I hope to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by neurodegenerative disorders. This work could significantly impact not only my life but also the lives of countless others who suffer from these conditions. The Deborah Thomas Scholarship Award would be instrumental in helping me achieve these goals and fulfill my potential as a future healthcare professional. It would alleviate some of the financial burden of my education, allowing me to focus on my studies and research. I am determined to make the most of this opportunity and contribute meaningfully to the field of neurobiology.

One of the best hugs I have ever received was from a little Ukrainian boy in a rural village in Moldova. Last summer, I dedicated my three months off from my studies to supporting people devastated by the conflict in Ukraine. I traveled to refugee camps across Moldova, delivering food and resources. Aside from the occasional plombir (classic Eastern European ice cream) bought for the kids, we strove to provide whole, nutrient-dense foods to the refugees. On one occassion, we even picked strawberries from a local farm to bring to a group of Ukrainian siblings separated from their parents. Aiding people in underprivileged situations and areas is a lifetime commitment and goal of mine. It is these people who do not have access to resources to learn about medical discoveries, particularly those concerning the importance of nutrition. I have always been passionate about biology and health, and I am planning to major in these fields in college. Through my studies, I aim to deepen my understanding of how nutritional choices can prevent, slow down, and sometimes reverse major medical conditions like cancer, heart disease, and autoimmune disorders. This knowledge will be crucial in educating others about the importance of nutrition. My experience volunteering at refugee camps has shown me the impact that access to nutritious food can have on people's health and well-being. Many of the refugees I met were unaware of the benefits of healthy and nutritious foods. By providing them with healthy food options and educating them about the importance of nutrition, we were able to make a positive impact on their lives. In addition to my volunteer work, I have also been involved in research concerning the medical benefits of various plants and fungi. This experience has given me a deeper understanding of the science behind how nutrition can affect our health. Furthermore, I have tutored high school students in Kyiv, Ukraine, in English and Biology through the ENGin program. This has allowed me to share my knowledge and passion for health and nutrition with others. If awarded this scholarship, I would continue to educate and assist patients and their families on ways to improve their health through better nutritional choices. I would use my education and experiences to create resources that make it easier for people to access and understand the importance of nutrition. Ultimately, my goal is to make a positive impact on the health and well-being of others, particularly those in underprivileged situations. By educating people about the importance of nutrition, I believe we can improve their quality of life and help prevent and manage major medical conditions. Thank you for considering my application for the Amber D. Hudson Memorial Scholarship.

Something about the dim lights and the calm, intellectual atmosphere always sits right with me. In a life of movement and change, challenge and growth, the constant is comforting. I can always fall back on the uniform yet unique shelves, filled with impossible possibilities. I peruse the numerous titles, trying to make the consequential decision: Should I spend this weekend exploring the magical world of wizards and muggles or discover the alluring field of epigenetics? I add both books to my pile. I make my way over to the check-out counter, proud of my towering stack of fascinating reads. After shuffling through gift cards and loose change in my pink, sticker-decorated wallet, I find my library card and whip it out proudly, as if it were an Amex Black Card. As the librarian falls into a familiar rhythm, scanning book after book from the leaning tower that my arms struggle to support, she sees that my fines are too high to check out any more books. “Pleaaase,” I begged, “you don’t understand— I need to find out what happens next!” Even though I had just moved to this town, the staff already knew me well. From opening to closing, every moment I was not at school would be spent within these walls, immersing myself in fantastical new worlds and learning about alluring topics, such as the complexity of cells. As a single Moldovan immigrant, my mother would work away until the sun was a faint memory, leaving me among the mountains of books. I took solace in the piles of parchment; the library soon became my very own daycare, rich with stories that enamored my young mind. The librarian and I made a deal: for each poem I write, my debt would be reduced by a dollar. I gave her a toothy grin and got to work. Through a pattern of rhyming lines, I described my curiosity of the world: the capability of the human brain, the constant movement of the Earth’s tectonic plates, and the evolution of language all sparked a fiery spirit of inquiry in me which could not be snuffed out. Through a haiku, I detailed the secret lives of the stars and planets (pluto always got left out), revealing my awe of stargazing. In a Shakespearean sonnet, I professed my newfound love for gothic architecture, attempting to envision the wonder a medieval peasant would have felt when surrounded by the grandeur of the flying buttresses and sunlight beaming through the stained glass windows. In a villanelle, I obsessed over the unknown of the deep ocean (only 5% of the ocean has been explored!) and my desire to make it known. With each stanza, more and more of my hefty fine was erasing, fading into an old memory. It gave me comfort and a sense of purpose in my work to know that the more I wrote, the less the fine’s burden would fall upon my mom. This experience highlights my insatiable curiosity and desire to help others as much as I possibly can. What sets me apart from other applicants is my diverse range of interests and my commitment to making a difference. I have maintained a 3.8 GPA while being involved in various extracurricular activities. As a co-captain of the Junior Varsity Girls Basketball Team, I learned the importance of teamwork and leadership. My work in creating the SHS Key Club Justice for Ukraine Fundraiser and volunteering at Ukrainian refugee camps in Moldova has shown me the impact of community service and the importance of global awareness. Additionally, my role as a tutor for high school students in Kyiv, Ukraine, through ENGin has been incredibly rewarding. It has not only improved my teaching skills but also deepened my understanding of different cultures. My proficiency in multiple languages, including Romanian, Spanish, and Greek, further highlights my commitment to connecting with others and broadening my horizons. My penchant for discovering and learning followed me to high school, only growing with the influx of new information and opportunities. I have always been passionate in my desire to learn more and connect with others. The rush of excitement when connections between my neurons are created after learning a fun fact reminds me how fun learning can be. I rely on my endlessly insatiable desire to learn and grow in my everyday endeavors. Whether it be learning a new language or figuring out my physics homework, I am fueled and motivated by my need to find out the answer to any problem that I am confronted with. For me, with the infinite learning possibilities it offers, the library symbolizes my infinite yearning to learn and explore all the facets of my curiosity.