There are a lot of things one can be passionate about, but there is one passion that has always stuck with me: science. My passion began growing during my freshman year of high school when I joined the Project Lead The Way: Biomedical Sciences program and took my first biology class. I had always felt a natural interest in science, but I never thought too deeply about it until then. Throughout the school year, I faced many challenges, especially in my biomedical sciences class, but my love for science only continued to grow. Rather than feeling discouraged when things got difficult, I found myself more motivated to push through and learn as much as I could. That was when I first realized that I wanted to take this passion and turn it into a lifelong career helping others through healthcare. My sophomore year in the biomedical program was even more challenging, but I enjoyed every part of it, and looking back now, I miss it. We completed several hands-on labs, from dissecting a cow’s eye to conducting reflex tests on each other. These experiences made science come alive for me. They taught me more than just technical skills. They showed me the importance of hard work, preparation, and staying focused. These are lessons I know will follow me throughout college and into my future as a Physician Assistant. Even though I know the courses I take in college will be difficult, I’m excited to keep growing as both a student and a future healthcare provider. My passion for becoming a Physician Assistant also comes from my interest in the human body. I have always found it fascinating how all the systems work together to perform countless functions that keep us alive. Learning about the human body is like solving a puzzle, and I love the idea of using that knowledge to help people when something isn’t working as it should. There is something incredibly meaningful about being able to make a real difference in someone’s life by helping them heal, recover, and understand what is happening inside their body. But beyond my love of science, my biggest motivation comes from a very personal place. Every day, I am driven to achieve my goals, not just for myself, but for my cousin who should be here reaching his goals too. Losing him was one of the hardest things I have ever experienced, and his absence has inspired me to pursue a career as a Physician Assistant. Maybe I can be the reason someone gets more time with the person they love. And that, to me, would be the greatest purpose of all. For me, pursuing this degree is about more than just having a career. It is about turning my passion for science into something bigger than myself. It is about honoring my cousin’s memory, fulfilling my own dreams, and helping others in the moments they need it most. Being able to provide care, comfort, and answers to people during difficult times is exactly why I am so passionate about becoming a Physician Assistant.

Words are powerful, and not many people realize the impact their words can have on others. A single message on social media can make or break someone’s day and can majorly influence teens and children. I’ve always tried to follow my mom’s wise words. She says, “It’s important to watch what you say because you never know what someone is going through. Use your words for good.” As someone who has experienced loss due to negative social media influences, it’s important to understand that not everything on social media is factual, and it’s important to be mindful of how you treat others online and in person. I’ve seen several interactions on social media lead to dangerous situations. Whether people argue on social media or fight in school, a seemingly small situation can become dangerous quickly. Like many teens, my friends often “meet” people on social media. Sometimes they even decide to meet strangers in person, despite knowing the potential dangers. For instance, one friend frequently wants to meet up with people he meets on social media. I often remind him that although he shares his location with several people, meeting up with someone you don’t know (possibly a criminal) might create a dangerous situation. Another friend often conflicts with people she meets on social media. Nowadays, conflict on social media almost always leads to fighting in person, but my friend often finds herself in dangerous situations, because she never knows what or who someone may bring to a hostile meeting. As a basketball player, I often face conflict on the court. People get in my face, trash talk, or become overly aggressive. Even on the court, I have to be careful to protect myself. Beyond my personal relationships, I do my best to be a good role model to those around me by being kind to others. I know a simple, “Hey, how’s your day going?” could make someone’s day better. Other small acts of kindness, like holding the door for others or giving small compliments, may teach someone the value of being kind. Despite my family’s financial challenges, I’m determined to do what it takes to receive a higher education and pursue my goals, whether I have to get a job during my summers or school year or apply for scholarships. My future is very important to me. I plan to become a physician assistant so I can use my passion for science to help others in a meaningful way. As a physician assistant, I envision teaching my future patients good habits regarding social media use. By encouraging acts of kindness online and continuing to educate people about the dangers of social media, I hope to make a lasting impact on people throughout my life.