Hobbies and interests
Classics
Reading
Thriller
Short Stories
Adventure
I read books multiple times per week
Rahma Abbas
505
Bold Points1x
FinalistRahma Abbas
505
Bold Points1x
FinalistBio
Hello! My name is Rahma. I am a first-generation college student and first-generation immigrant from Ethiopia. I am very passionate about learning and plan to major in Biology with hopes of either becoming a biomedical researcher or pharmaceutical consultant. I am passionate about the representation of FGLI (first-gen low-income) in STEM fields so I am working towards doing my part to change that!
I am in the Science and Technology program with a concentration in Biology at Eleanor Roosevelt High School. I serve as the President of my school's Latin Honor Society. I am also involved in Classics focused quiz bowl (certamen) and serve as the captain. I love Classical studies in addition to Biology and hope to diversify the field.
During my free time, I love to bake for charity and sometimes watch movies.
Education
Eleanor Roosevelt High
High SchoolMiscellaneous
Desired degree level:
Bachelor's degree program
Majors of interest:
- Biology, General
Career
Dream career field:
Management Consulting
Dream career goals:
Server
Coldstone Creamery2023 – Present2 years
Public services
Volunteering
Books and Brownies — Baking for charity2022 – Present
Rainbow Futures Scholarship
Acknowledging my homosexuality is more than just sexual orientation; it embodies the courage to be true to oneself amidst societal pressures to conform. As an LGBTQ+ person, I've traversed a path marked by obstacles and victories, all while striving to advocate for equality and acceptance.
During my upbringing, grappling with my identity in a culture that penalizes and ostracizes differences was a formidable and extremely difficult challenge to overcome. Every single step I took towards self-discovery was met with hurdles, from facing discrimination from my family and friends to battling internalized homophobia. Nowhere was safe, not even in my own head. Nonetheless, through resilience and self-acceptance, I've learned to embrace my identity with pride.
Coming out to family and friends was perhaps one of the most daunting challenges I encountered. Fear of rejection and abandonment loomed large, yet the sense of liberation and relief that followed was unparalleled. While some relationships strained, many deepened as authenticity strengthened our bonds.
In pursuing higher education, my aspirations extend beyond personal growth. I envision utilizing my academic journey as a platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and foster inclusivity. By immersing myself in subjects like sociology and political science, I aim to unravel systemic barriers faced by the LGBTQ+ community and work towards dismantling them.
Receiving this scholarship would not only alleviate financial burdens associated with higher education but also validate my dedication to advocacy. With this support, I could focus entirely on academic pursuits and extracurricular activities aimed at promoting LGBTQ+ rights.
Furthermore, education empowers individuals to enact change. Armed with knowledge and critical thinking skills, I aim to engage in dialogue, challenge stereotypes, and advocate for policy reforms promoting LGBTQ+ equality. Whether through research, activism, or community outreach, I am committed to leveraging my education for social progress.
Moreover, the scholarship would offer opportunities to participate in LGBTQ+ advocacy initiatives, attend conferences, and connect with like-minded individuals. Collaborating with diverse communities and amplifying marginalized voices, I aim to create a more inclusive society where individuals are celebrated regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. With this scholarship's support, I am confident in my ability to effect positive change and leave a lasting impact on society.
In essence, my journey as an LGBTQ+ individual has been one of self-discovery, resilience, and advocacy. By embracing authenticity and leveraging education, I strive to contribute to a world where love and acceptance transcend prejudice and discrimination.