One of the biggest health threats we face today is antibiotic resistance. These life-saving medications, which we have relied on for decades, are becoming less effective as bacteria evolve to resist them. What used to be simple infections are now harder and sometimes impossible to treat. According to the World Health Organization, antibiotic resistance is one of the top global health challenges of our time. It puts millions of lives at risk and jeopardizes the safety of everyday medical procedures. As someone preparing for a career in healthcare, I feel a deep responsibility to be part of the solution. Antibiotic resistance grows mostly from overuse and misuse. In many places, people can get antibiotics without prescriptions, or they take them incorrectly. Even in the best hospitals, there are still gaps in how antibiotics are prescribed and understood. I care about this issue because it touches everything from how we treat infections to how we protect vulnerable patients, including children, the elderly, and those undergoing surgery or chemotherapy. I have chosen to pursue a graduate degree in healthcare, specifically pharmacy, because I want to help prevent problems like this before they grow worse. Pharmacists are in a powerful position to educate, guide, and intervene. We are not just handing out medications. We are advising people, identifying risks, and making sure that treatments are safe and necessary. I believe we can do a lot more to educate patients about how antibiotics work, when they should be used, and how dangerous resistance can be if left unchecked. My goal is to work on the front lines of patient care and also contribute to larger efforts like antibiotic stewardship programs. I want to be someone who bridges the gap between science and public understanding. Over the past few years, I have volunteered in several healthcare outreach events, helping to connect underserved communities with basic care and education. These experiences taught me how much misinformation is out there and how powerful good communication can be. Right now, I am preparing to begin graduate-level studies with a GPA above 3.2, and I am doing everything I can to stay focused and committed. But like many students, especially those of us without a financial safety net, the cost of higher education is a constant challenge. I am applying for this scholarship because I truly believe in what I am working toward, and I do not want finances to stand in the way of that. This scholarship would help me concentrate fully on my education so that I can become the kind of healthcare provider who makes a lasting impact. What draws me to this field is knowing that one conversation, one correct dosage, one moment of clarity can change a patient’s entire outcome. Antibiotic resistance is not just a problem for the future. It is already here. But with the right knowledge, the right care, and the right people working on it, we can turn things around. I want to be one of those people. Thank you for the opportunity to apply for this scholarship and for supporting students like me who are determined to make a difference in healthcare.

My name is Prime Makita, a pre-pharmacy undergraduate student at Houston Community College. I was raised by a single mother whose strength and sacrifice have profoundly shaped who I am today. Though she is not physically present with me here in the United States, her love and unwavering support from back home have been the foundation of my journey. She works tirelessly in our home country to provide for my education, housing, and daily needs, and her dedication continues to inspire me to strive for excellence in everything I do. Being apart from my mother has been one of the most difficult parts of my experience as an international student. I have had to face many challenges on my own—navigating a new environment, managing responsibilities, and staying focused on my academic and career goals. However, instead of letting these challenges hold me back, I use them as motivation to keep moving forward. Each step I take in my education is not only for myself, but also to honor the sacrifices my mother has made for me. Coming from a single-mother household has instilled in me a deep sense of independence and resilience. I have learned to manage my time, stay disciplined, and prioritize my long-term goals. I have also learned the value of community and the importance of being a support system for others who are going through difficult circumstances. These lessons continue to guide me as I pursue a career in pharmacy. My ambition is to become a Doctor of Pharmacy and use my knowledge and skills to improve healthcare in underserved communities. I am particularly passionate about increasing access to affordable medications and educating people on how to manage their health. As someone who comes from a country where basic healthcare resources are often limited, I understand how life-changing it can be to have access to the right information and treatment. My goal is to work not only in clinical settings, but also to return to my home country and help improve the healthcare system there by organizing community outreach programs and health education initiatives. What drives me every day is the belief that we are meant to be of service to others. I want to be part of a new generation of healthcare professionals who lead with compassion, cultural understanding, and purpose. Like Iliana Arie Velez, I believe in living with intention and using my experiences to uplift those around me. Her words, “You got this,” remind me that with faith and perseverance, anything is possible. Iliana once wrote, “Our purpose in life is to ride the waves in the ocean, our reasoning in life is spiritual development.” These words resonate deeply with me. Life comes with unpredictable tides, but I have learned to navigate them with faith, strength, and vision. I am determined to keep going, not only for my own success but to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Receiving this scholarship would help ease the financial burden of my studies and allow me to continue pursuing my dream of becoming a pharmacist who makes a global impact. Thank you for considering my story and for supporting students who, like me, are working to turn sacrifice into purpose.

My name is Prime Makita, and I am a proud first-generation African immigrant from Congo-Brazzaville. I spent most of my childhood in Congo, where I was raised to value community, perseverance, and the power of education. Growing up in an environment where opportunities were limited made me appreciate every chance to learn and grow. Moving to the United States as a teenager opened new doors for me, especially in science and healthcare, and helped me discover my passion for serving others. My cultural background has shaped my worldview and my goals. In Congolese culture, we are taught to care deeply for one another, to respect our elders, and to give back to our communities. These values have stayed with me and continue to guide me, especially as I pursue my education in biological sciences. I want to use what I’ve learned to help others—particularly those in underserved communities who may not have easy access to quality healthcare. One way I’ve been able to give back is through volunteering with the UTHealth School of Nursing Ombudsman Program. In this role, I advocate for the rights of residents in healthcare and long-term care facilities. I help resolve concerns about care, support communication between families and healthcare staff, and educate residents about their rights and resources. I’ve also learned how important emotional support can be—sometimes just being there to listen makes a difference. This experience has been incredibly meaningful to me. It’s shown me how much of an impact compassionate care can have, and it’s made me even more determined to pursue a career in pharmacy. As a student at Houston Community College, I’m working hard to complete my prerequisites for pharmacy school. My goal is to become a pharmacist who not only understands medicine, but also advocates for better healthcare access and equity. I want to bring care to places like the one I grew up in—where people often have to overcome so much just to get the help they need. However, pursuing a STEM degree while supporting myself comes with financial challenges. Receiving the Dr. Soronnadi Nnaji Legacy Scholarship would ease the burden of tuition and academic expenses, allowing me to stay focused on my studies and community service. More importantly, it would be a sign that my story—and the stories of students like me—matter. It would give me the support I need to continue moving forward with confidence and purpose. This scholarship would be an investment not only in my future, but in the communities I plan to serve. I hope to use my education to become a leader in healthcare, someone who can represent and inspire others from immigrant and underserved backgrounds. With hard work, faith, and support, I know I can make that vision a reality.

My name is Prime Makita, and I am a Biological Sciences major with a pre-pharmacy focus at Houston Community College. I currently work at my college’s library, assisting students and staff while strengthening my communication, organization, and time management skills. My interest in healthcare began at a very young age, when I underwent knee surgery at just eight years old. The experience of being a patient, going through surgery, and then enduring a long rehabilitation process sparked a desire to one day be part of the medical field. I knew early on that I wanted to help others in the same way I was helped—but it took time to understand what my exact role would be. As I continued my education, I gravitated toward pharmacy. I loved science, especially biology and chemistry, and I was fascinated by how medications work in the body. Pharmacy seemed to offer the perfect balance between the scientific and human aspects of healthcare. However, I still found myself wavering between pursuing medical school or pharmacy school—until a pivotal experience brought me clarity. In the summer of 2024, I returned to Congo-Brazzaville for vacation. While there, I was offered an opportunity to intern at Pharmacie Daffé. I accepted the role to stay productive during my visit, not knowing that it would end up being a turning point in my life. One day, someone close to me became gravely ill. Being present in the pharmacy allowed me to access life-saving medication quickly. That moment showed me the vital role pharmacists play in real-time health crises. I realized that while doctors diagnose, it is often the medications that make recovery possible. That experience confirmed that pharmacy wasn’t just a good fit—it was my true calling. As a future pharmacist, my short-term goals include mastering the foundational knowledge of pharmacology and patient-centered care. I want to ensure that patients receive the right medications and fully understand how to use them safely. I’m especially drawn to the role pharmacists play in bridging the gap between physicians and patients, translating complex medical information into clear, actionable advice. My long-term goals include advocating for better access to medications in underserved communities, especially in countries like Congo-Brazzaville. I hope to work in research and health policy to make drug therapies more affordable and accessible worldwide. I also aspire to contribute to innovations in personalized medicine and biotechnology. As an international student and a woman of color, I am part of an underrepresented group in the field of pharmacy. That reality fuels my determination to succeed. I believe that diverse voices are essential to improving healthcare for all. My background gives me a unique lens through which I view medicine, patient care, and advocacy. This scholarship would greatly reduce the financial pressure of my academic journey. As an international student, I have limited access to federal financial aid, which means I must rely heavily on part-time work and personal resources. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to devote more time to my studies and community involvement, and less to financial concerns. I am committed to becoming a compassionate, informed, and impactful pharmacist. With your support, I will continue pursuing this path and, in turn, give back to communities both locally and abroad.

My name is Prime Makita, and I am from Congo-Brazzaville, Central Africa. I moved to the United States three years ago to pursue a better education and a brighter future. I am working toward an associate degree in biological sciences, with plans to continue my education by earning a Doctor of Pharmacy starting in Fall 2025. My experiences growing up and my passion for helping others have fueled my desire to impact the world and my community positively. Coming from a country where healthcare resources are limited, I understand the challenges many people face when accessing the care they need. Witnessing these struggles taught me the importance of healthcare professionals who treat illnesses and educate and advocate for their communities. My ultimate goal is to become a pharmacist who goes beyond simply dispensing medication—I want to be a resource, a guide, and a support system for those who need it most. I plan to positively impact the world by improving access to healthcare, especially in underserved communities. EveryoneEveryone deserves access to quality healthcare, regardless of their background or economic status. As a future pharmacist, I plan to volunteer in community health programs, offer free health education workshops, and support preventive care and wellness initiatives. Education is a powerful tool, and by teaching people how to care for themselves and manage chronic conditions, I can help create stronger, healthier communities. In addition, I want to give back to immigrant communities like the one I come from. Moving to a new country has many challenges, especially when navigating a complicated healthcare system. I hope to be a voice and a bridge for immigrants, offering them guidance and making healthcare more accessible and understandable for those who might feel overwhelmed. Beyond direct patient care, I aspire to be involved in global health initiatives that bring medical supplies, medications, and healthcare education to needy countries. Growing up in Congo-Brazzaville, I saw how lacking resources could devastate entire families and communities. Contributing to international efforts would allow me to give back on a larger scale and honor the journey that brought me here. My dream is not just about achieving personal success; it’s about using my education, skills, and experiences to lift others. I want to embody the same spirit of resilience and compassion that my mother showed me throughout my life. Her example inspires me daily to be a person who doesn’t just dream of change but actively works to make it happen. Thank you for considering my application and supporting students like me who are eager to make a real difference in the world.

My name is Prime Makita, and I am originally from Congo-Brazzaville, Central Africa. For the past three years, I have been living in the United States, pursuing an associate degree in Biological Sciences. I am passionate about healthcare and am determined to become a pharmacist, a profession that will allow me to help people lead healthier, more fulfilling lives. Growing up in Congo-Brazzaville, I witnessed firsthand the challenges that many in my community faced when it came to accessing quality healthcare. This experience motivated me to pursue a career where I could contribute meaningfully to improving the well-being of others. I realized that, by becoming a pharmacist, I could make a direct impact on my community by ensuring that people receive the right medications and guidance to manage their health. A pharmacist not only dispenses medicine but also serves as a trusted healthcare resource, providing advice and counseling to patients. My goal is to earn a Doctor of Pharmacy degree starting in Fall 2025 and become a compassionate, knowledgeable pharmacist. I want to specialize in providing medication therapy management and collaborate with healthcare teams to improve patient outcomes. Through this role, I hope to offer care beyond the prescription counter, focusing on educating patients and supporting them in managing their health conditions. In addition to pursuing my career in pharmacy, I am committed to making a positive impact on my community. I plan to use my knowledge and skills to address the healthcare disparities that many underserved populations face. Whether through organizing health education workshops, volunteering at local clinics, or helping individuals navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, I want to ensure that everyone has access to the resources they need to live healthier lives. I am particularly interested in advocating for improved healthcare access in underrepresented communities, including immigrants and low-income individuals who often encounter barriers to receiving quality care. I believe that, as a pharmacist, I can play an essential role in bridging these gaps and ensuring that people receive the medication and support they deserve. In the future, I also hope to create programs that provide health education and awareness, focusing on preventive care and chronic disease management. Education is key to empowering individuals to take charge of their health, and by offering accessible information, I can help prevent health complications that disproportionately affect certain communities. I am excited about the opportunity to pursue my dream of becoming a pharmacist and making a lasting difference in the lives of those around me. I know that with hard work, dedication, and the support of programs like this, I can contribute to a healthier, more informed, and more equitable community. Thank you for considering my application.

When I first arrived in the United States three years ago, I was scared. I had left behind everything I knew in Congo-Brazzaville, Central Africa, to chase a better future. The strength to take that step came from one person: my mother. Her sacrifices and love have shaped me into the person I am today. Through all the challenges we faced as a family, she was the constant source of support, pushing me to reach for a better life. My name is Prime Makita, and I am currently pursuing an associate degree in Biological Sciences as part of my journey toward a career in healthcare. My story begins with my mother, a woman who has been my rock and biggest inspiration. As a single mother raising three daughters on her own, she became both the father and mother figure in our lives. I am the youngest, and I grew up watching her face each day’s struggles with strength and grace. Being a single mother was no easy feat. My mom worked tirelessly, sacrificing her own comfort, well-being, and dreams to make sure we had the chance to achieve ours. I saw her wake up early, stay up late, and endure hardships to ensure we had food, shelter, and an education. Despite the difficult circumstances, she made sure we never felt lacking. She always found a way to make life better for us. I am constantly amazed by her resilience and selflessness. Thanks to my mother, my two older sisters and I have been able to pursue our dreams. One sister is now happily married and starting a family, while the other is a successful engineer. Their successes are a reflection of my mother’s sacrifices, and their achievements motivate me to continue striving for more. It is because of my mom's determination and belief in us that we have all built fulfilling lives. My mother’s influence shaped me into the person I am today. She taught me that no matter how hard life gets, you never give up. She didn’t just talk about dreams; she lived them through her actions. Success is not just about personal accomplishment, but about creating better opportunities for others—especially those you love. Her dream was simple: for us to go further than she ever could, and that dream drives me daily. Starting in Fall 2025, I will pursue a four-year Doctor of Pharmacy degree. My goal is to become a compassionate pharmacist who not only provides medications but also offers care and understanding to those in need. I want to make a difference in people's lives, just as my mother made a difference in mine. She has always believed in the power of education, and I want to honor her sacrifices by achieving my dreams and giving back to my community. Receiving this scholarship would ease the financial burdens that come with higher education. It would allow me to focus on excelling in my studies and moving closer to my goal of becoming a pharmacist. I know that every step toward my career is one step closer to fulfilling the dream my mother had for me—a brighter future than she ever had. Everything I have achieved so far is because of my mother’s love, her hard work, and the values she instilled in me. With this scholarship, I will continue to carry forward her legacy and work tirelessly to make her dream—and my own—come true. Thank you for considering my application. Sincerely, Prime Makita