Math is universal. Math doesn't lie. Math is trustworthy. To me, math is more than just a subject. Math is life. Like any other child, I hated math. To me, it was radioactive, something that shouldn't exist like broccoli or homework. For the most part, I could understand it, but there were other areas that I wished I could expunge from the face of the Earth because of how hard it was to grasp. Like finding the limit of a polynomial or simplifying complex and hard equations. Frustration and confusion wore on me like an old painting. I felt stupid because for me and many others, math = intelligence and if I wasn't good at math, I wasn't intelligent. It wasn't until some rainy evening when I was stuck at home and couldn't bask in the warm sunlight that I was confronted with the bane of my existence. My mother refused to let my brain rot from tv and instead directed me to something more "stimulating" A book filled with puzzles. Tiny boxes formed rows and columns most of which were blank. The ones that weren't held numbers ranging from 1 to 9. I was confused and unaware of how to play the game which was called "Sudoku". My mother told me that I had to fill in each row and column so that the line held all the numbers from 1 to 9 but the number couldn't be repeated twice in the same line. Being the competitive person that I was I sought to "win" this game by any means necessary. Only the means required the use of my brain and math, the latter of which I detested. However as the wheels in my brain began turning and I started to fill in the boxes, I began to see math in a new light. Hours had passed and I hadn't noticed that the rain had stopped. I had filled multiple charts, completing every set of Sudoku. It was then I realized that I had had fun using math to play. It was astounding. Instead of finding math boring, I found it enriching and fun. Using my mind to solve problems felt good. Although my math skills are subpar at best, it was through a math game that I began to see that math isn't a complex and boring subject, but something more. That it was possible to have fun.

A healthy lifestyle includes healthy eating habits. What we eat for breakfast sets the tone for the rest of our day. It's important to remember that healthy eating habits include consuming high-quality proteins, carbohydrates, heart-healthy fats, vitamins, minerals, and water in our foods while avoiding unhealthy foods like packaged foods, saturated fats, and excessive sugar. Eating in this manner aids in the maintenance of our bodies homeostasis, promoting optimal body weight and disease prevention. Eating healthily is simple. You can start small by only limiting yourself to one snack a day or cutting out things such as cookies and candy. You can also drink lots and lots of water which is very important for your body. Taking baby steps is a great way to maintain your health without going overboard and risk hurting yourself. You can also add more fruits and vegetables to your meals, avoid red meat, learn when your body is full, and limit overeating. All of these things, plus more, can lead to longer life spans, muscle strength, energy, etc. For as long as I could remember, I've always been eating healthily. My mom made it her mission to introduce us to tons of fruits and veggies in a nutritious and delicious way. A majority of my diet consists of curry with rice. I love curry and I love how versatile it is because it allows me to eat healthy while also being tasty! From chicken curry with green beans to beef curry with cabbage to veggie bhaji! The possibilities are endless. Just thinking about these dishes is making my stomach growl. These dishes are simple and can feed you for a few days. Eating healthier helps me lose weight and stay fit. It ensures that my muscles get stronger and I'm not destroying my body with diseases and obesity. It also makes me happier, knowing that I am doing my part to be healthy. Knowing that I have more energy and stamina gives me the confidence boost I need to do what I want. Less junk food means I'm not stressing my body out with unwanted calories. It also improves my mood, making me less sluggish and tired. I feel optimistic about my future, and by eating healthy I am ensuring that I am around longer so that I can enjoy all that life has to offer. I encourage everybody to eat healthy because eating healthy equals a healthy and better life.

As my senior year starts to end, I am getting more and more excited to go to college. Although I'm still waiting on many admissions decisions, the fact that I know that I'm about to go to college is very exhilarating. I already have experience with college life. For my senior year of high school, I am taking college classes at CUNY Hunter College (Calculus 2, Psychology, Calculus, and Chemistry). At first, I was nervous because I didn't know my way around, or what my professors were like, and didn't have my friends with me as they were taking different classes. But as time went on, I started to settle in. My professors were super nice (if a bit old-school at times if you know what I mean), I understood the class material and was having fun learning new things. Everybody was friendly and helpful and I truly felt like a college student. I especially love hanging out at the campus library. Of course while at college, I try not to stray away from exercise. I started walking more and checking the number of steps that I take because it's such an easy thing that you do all the time. I also drink tons of water every day because water is crucial to our body's survival. I also ensure that I eat plenty of fruits and veggies. Curry and rice are a huge staple at my house, and I love how versatile it is because it allows me to eat healthy while also being tasty. From chicken curry with green beans to beef curry with cabbage to veggie bhaji, I am incorporating a lot of fruits and veggies in my diet so that my body gets nutritious food. My school also has a swimming pool which I occasionally use for fun and to relieve tension. There's also a fitness center filled with weights and equipment which I utilize at least 15 minutes a day. I also take two 10-minute walks going to and back from my school to the train station. I try to make the most of my day no matter how small my actions are. School shouldn't stop me from being healthy and staying fit. While school can oftentimes be fun it can also be stressful. Mental health is very important to me and keeping a healthy brain is just as important as having a healthy body. Most people don't realize this. Whenever I get overwhelmed, I take five minutes out of my day and just relax. I take deep breaths and say these affirmations that make me forget what I'm worrying about. Things such as "think happy thoughts" and "the deeper I go the higher I rise" keep me grounded and attuned to my surroundings. I also joined my school's Better You club which advocates for mental health and creates a safe space for students. Each week we talk about our feelings or our day. It's a great way to relieve our stress and also forms connections with our peers. Forming social connections is very crucial to people our age. We also provide students with free mental health services so they can get the help they need without going into debt. Furthermore, we also put up posters talking about various mental illnesses so people can know the signs and can reach out for themselves or others.

I started walking more and checking the number of steps that I take because it's such an easy thing that you do all the time. I also drink tons of water every day because water is crucial to our body's survival. I also ensure that I eat plenty of fruits and veggies. Curry and rice are a huge staple at my house, and I love how versatile it is because it allows me to eat healthy while also being tasty. From chicken curry with green beans to beef curry with cabbage to veggie bhaji, I am incorporating a lot of fruits and veggies in my diet so that my body gets nutritious food. My school also has a swimming pool which I occasionally use for fun and to relieve tension. There's also a fitness center filled with weights and equipment which I utilize at least 15 minutes a day. I also take two 10-minute walks going to and back from my school to the train station. I try to make the most of my day no matter how small my actions are. School shouldn't stop me from being healthy and staying fit. While school can oftentimes be fun it can also be stressful. Mental health is very important to me and keeping a healthy brain is just as important as having a healthy body. Most people don't realize this. Whenever I get overwhelmed, I take five minutes out of my day and just relax. I take deep breaths and say these affirmations that make me forget what I'm worrying about. Things such as "think happy thoughts" and "the deeper I go the higher I rise" keep me grounded and attuned to my surroundings. I also joined my school's Better You club which advocates for mental health and creates a safe space for students. Each week we talk about our feelings or our day. It's a great way to relieve our stress and also forms connections with our peers. Forming social connections is very crucial to people our age. We also provide students with free mental health services so they can get the help they need without going into debt. Furthermore, we also put up posters talking about various mental illnesses so people can know the signs and can reach out for themselves or others. Mental health is just as important as physical. After all, a healthy mind = a healthy body!

Math is universal. Math doesn't lie. Math is trustworthy. To me, math is more than just a subject. Math is life. Like any other child, I hated math. To me, it was radioactive, something that shouldn't exist like broccoli or homework. For the most part, I could understand it, but there were other areas that I wished I could expunge from the face of the Earth because of how hard it was to grasp. Frustration and confusion wore on me like an old painting. I felt stupid because for me and many others, math = intelligence and if I wasn't good at math, I wasn't intelligent. It wasn't until some rainy evening when I was stuck at home and couldn't bask in the warm sunlight that I was confronted with the bane of my existence. My mother refused to let my brain rot from tv and instead directed me to something more "stimulating" A book filled with puzzles. Tiny boxes formed rows and columns most of which were blank. The ones that weren't held numbers ranging from 1 to 9. I was confused and unaware of how to play the game which was called "Sudoku". My mother told me that I had to fill in each row and column so that the line held all the numbers from 1 to 9 but the number couldn't be repeated twice in the same line. Being the competitive person that I was I sought to "win" this game by any means necessary. Only the means required the use of my brain and math, the latter of which I detested. However as the wheels in my brain began turning and I started to fill in the boxes, I began to see math in a new light. Hours had passed and I hadn't noticed that the rain had stopped. I had filled multiple charts, completing every set of Sudoku. It was then I realized that I had had fun using math to play. It was astounding. Instead of finding math boring, I found it enriching and fun. Using my mind to solve problems felt good. Although my math skills are subpar at best, it was through a math game that I began to see that math isn't a complex and boring subject, but something more. That it was possible to have fun.

Hearing the whoosh of my racket as it hits the feathered birdie into the air. Humming to a Bollywood song that I don't know the words or the meaning of, but randomly popped into my head. Feeling the cool New York breeze envelop me in a hug as I watch the sun set in Manhattan. Opening a book and reading for hours snuggled up in bed. Burst out laughing with my friends, wishing this moment would last forever. These are the things that make me, me. This is who I am, and a lot more. I've wanted to be a doctor since I was a child. I wanted to help people by healing them and making them feel better, and the medical field seemed like the best place to do so. As I grew older, I became more interested in medicine. I applied to and was accepted into New York University's STEP program, which teaches about the medical field. At my school, I joined a medical club where we learned about various diseases and medical professions. I researched colleges with amazing healthcare programs or schools. I knew I wanted to be a doctor; it was just a matter of which one. After careful consideration, I ultimately chose dentistry. A career in dentistry would allow me to not only reap the benefit of medicine but also to make a huge impact on the lives of my patients. I hope to open my clinic in my neighborhood, providing people with easy and reliable access to healthcare. Many diseases start in the mouth, and I want to be the first person to warn someone about a potentially fatal disease. I want to be on the front lines, ensuring that people practice good oral hygiene. Good oral hygiene is necessary for the foundation of a good and long healthy life. The appearance of one's teeth can also have a significant impact on one's mental health and self-esteem, which I hope to change through my work. Mental health is very important to me, and I don't want people to feel bad about themselves or the way that they look. I want people to look good inside and out. I want people to be happy. As a dentist, I can make a significant difference through small actions. This career allows me to do and change so much, and I can't wait for that day to come.

My major is biochemistry. With this major, I hope that it will bring me one step closer to becoming a dentist, my dream profession. I love helping people and making them feel better. Furthermore, I love learning about the natural world from cells to living organisms. Science encourages me to ask and explore, to nurture my curiosity. Majoring in biochemistry will fulfill that love of science. My aunt inspired me to pursue dentistry. She is so supportive and works in the medical field which is where my love of medicine came from. I wanted to be just like her, caring and looking after people. She gave me the idea to pursue dentistry because it would fulfill my wish of working in the medical field and also make sure that I don't become too stressed or burnout by the demands of a fast-paced, challenging job. I can still maintain an easy work-life balance. Higher education is important if I want to become a dentist. It can provide me with the tools that I need to become a dentist. College can teach me things that I must know and practice in the field. With a degree, I can open my clinic or work under someone. I can give back to my neighborhood by providing them with good dental care and oral hygiene. Giving them a good bill of health is something very important to me because I want them to live long and happy lives. I want people to have good self-esteem when they look in the mirror and smile, showing off their shiny bright white teeth. During high school, I volunteered at Project Cicero, a book drive to help underdeveloped NYC teachers and classrooms. When I read about their mission, I knew that this was something that I wanted to do. I wanted to give back to my community and what better way to do that, than by sharing my love of reading with young kids. I helped to organize and distribute books of various genres and ages to teachers looking to enrich and better the lives of their students. Being a Muslim is everything to me. I make it a point to practice my faith every day. In the news and media, people are constantly vilifying Islam as a religion of terrorism when it is the complete opposite. I want to show people that not all Muslims are bad and that you shouldn't judge someone based on the actions of a few. Every day, I do my best to help people no matter how small. I try to be friendly and nice to everyone. I also educate others on what it truly means to be a Muslim. Through this and more I hope to show that being Muslim isn't scary. We believe in love and acceptance.

My peers perceive me to be invisible. They'll say hi from time to time, but other than that they're off hanging out with their own friend groups. I'm just a passing glance, a short conversation, a quick acknowledgment of hello. And I'm ok with it. For the most part, I don't mind being alone because it prevents me from getting distracted and I can get my work done quickly. However, sometimes I do wish that instead of being cooped up in a library doing calculus homework, I'm out with friends laughing, drinking Starbucks, shopping, doing things my peers are interested in. Yet, I don't or rather I can't. Interacting with people my age is a battle. I'm filled with anxiety and fear about how people will perceive me. I have difficulty conversing or sharing my interests. While others are talking about their favorite K-pop bands, romantic crushes, and their plans for the weekend, I'm on the sidelines, listening in and nodding. At no point do I make a comment or add on to the conversation. I'm just there. And I hate it because it makes me feel like an outsider. Like my friends are only hanging out with me just because and not because we actually share interests. I'm tired of being invisible. I want to be noticed. Every day, I muster the courage to speak up and be heard. When I'm with my friends, I try to ignore negative thoughts and self-doubt that clog my head making me fear that my friends don't think of me as a friend. I also try to improve my public speaking skills. Instead of remaining silent, I try to take the initiative in conversations and work on overcoming my social anxiety. I try to focus on things that are positive rather than things that try to lower my self-esteem. I try to be open to new experiences, and I make time for my friends so that I can get to know them better as people who share my interests. And it hasn't been all that bad. I'm breaking out of my shell little by little, opening myself up to things I've never thought I'd do. From karaoke to doing a school sport, I'm starting to branch out my interests. Instead of just shoving my head into a book, I'm out there in the world having fun and making new memories. I've also gotten closer with my friends. Now, it no longer feels as if I'm a tag-along. I participate in conversations, make plans, it truly feels like I'm a part of the group. I've started socializing more and it caused me to be more open with people. Instead of one worded answer, I'll tell them about my day. They seem really interested. It truly feels as if people are getting to know me. The real me.

My peers perceive me to be invisible. They'll say hi from time to time, but other than that they're off hanging out with their own friend groups. I'm just a passing glance, a short conversation, a quick acknowledgment of hello. And I'm ok with it. For the most part, I don't mind being alone because it prevents me from getting distracted and I can get my work done quickly. However, sometimes I do wish that instead of being cooped up in a library doing calculus homework, I'm out with friends laughing, drinking Starbucks, shopping, doing things my peers are interested in. Yet, I don't or rather I can't. Interacting with people my age is a battle. I'm filled with anxiety and fear about how people will perceive me. I have difficulty conversing or sharing my interests. While others are talking about their favorite K-pop bands, romantic crushes, and their plans for the weekend, I'm on the sidelines, listening in and nodding. At no point do I make a comment or add on to the conversation. I'm just there. And I hate it because it makes me feel like an outsider. Like my friends are only hanging out with me just because and not because we actually share interests. I'm tired of being invisible. I want to be noticed. Every day, I muster the courage to speak up and be heard. When I'm with my friends, I try to ignore negative thoughts and self-doubt that clog my head making me fear that my friends don't think of me as a friend. I also try to improve my public speaking skills. Instead of remaining silent, I try to take the initiative in conversations and work on overcoming my social anxiety. I try to focus on things that are positive rather than things that try to lower my self-esteem. I try to be open to new experiences, and I make time for my friends so that I can get to know them better as people who share my interests. And it hasn't been all that bad. I'm breaking out of my shell little by little, opening myself up to things I've never thought I'd do. From karaoke to doing a school sport, I'm starting to branch out my interests. Instead of just shoving my head into a book, I'm out there in the world having fun and making new memories. It's a challenge trying to change who I am after so long, but no matter what happens I'm content with the person that I'll end up being.

"Kenna the Cat" Kenna the cat was a very fat cat Who sat atop a castle made of cardboard She sat there all day Her fat bottom glued to the carboard Her eyes looking over her domain Only leaving, when her food bowl was filled And then she finally gets up Hopped down Waddled straight for the bowl And promptly smushed her face into it Her fat bottom in the air Gorging all she can eat.

Cyndi Lauper's "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun," released in 1983, was a true reflection of the 1980s, with a message (and catchy tunes) that still resonates today: a young carefree rebellious teenage girl who just wants to have fun despite her parents' insistence that she let go of her childish ways and become a more mature adult. Lauper's song was an anthem not only for individuality and defiance of conformity, but also for young women and girls. The 1980s were known not only for blockbuster films, consumerism, and neon leg warmers, but also for women expressing their autonomy and individualism through fashion, sexual expression, feminist movements, and other mediums that expressed their desires for true gender equality and freedom. This song taught women that it's okay to have fun and not conform to societal expectations of marrying a man and having children. Specifically expressing that working girls, in particular, shouldn't be restricted from enjoying their lives. In other words, women "wanna have fun." However, they are met with criticizing parents and in the third verse prevented from moving freely by their controlling boyfriends. The song openly advocates for female liberation and women focusing on themselves rather than their families. In fact, it was released at a time when women were becoming more career-oriented, rejecting the notion that women should be stay-at-home mothers/wives. This song reminds me that I shouldn't be afraid to live life the way I want to and to pursue my dreams rather than those of others. That instead of conforming to outdated gender norms, I should enjoy life my way. I shouldn't be treated differently because I'm a girl. It makes no difference if society has certain expectations of me. At the end of the day, it's my choice, and I just want to have fun.

I'm a shy and quiet person by nature. I tend to be in the background, stray away from any social events that require me to socialize, and I prefer to be alone at home doing my own thing rather than hanging out with friends. My peers perceive me to be invisible. They'll say hi from time to time, but other than that they're off hanging out with their own friend groups. I'm just a passing glance, a short conversation, a quick acknowledgment of hello. And I'm ok with it. For the most part, I don't mind being alone because it prevents me from getting distracted and I can get my work done quickly. However, sometimes I do wish that instead of being cooped up in a library doing calculus homework, I'm out with friends laughing, drinking Starbucks, shopping, doing things my peers are interested in. Yet, I don't or rather I can't. Interacting with people my age is a battle. I'm filled with anxiety and fear about how people will perceive me. I have difficulty conversing or sharing my interests. While others are talking about their favorite K-pop bands, romantic crushes, and their plans for the weekend, I'm on the sidelines, listening in and nodding. At no point do I make a comment or add on to the conversation. I'm just there. And I hate it because it makes me feel like an outsider. Like my friends are only hanging out with me just because and not because we actually share interests. I'm tired of being invisible. I want to be noticed. Every day, I muster the courage to speak up and be heard. When I'm with my friends, I try to ignore negative thoughts and self-doubt that clog my head making me fear that my friends don't think of me as a friend. I also try to improve my public speaking skills. Instead of remaining silent, I try to take the initiative in conversations and work on overcoming my social anxiety. I try to focus on things that are positive rather than things that try to lower my self-esteem. I try to be open to new experiences, and I make time for my friends so that I can get to know them better as people who share my interests. It's a challenge, but one I'm content on breaking through. Pursuing a college education is hard and at the end of the day it doesn't matter what you want to major in or which college you want to go to if you can't afford it. Every year tuition is more expensive, and I am forced to search the heavens and beyond for grants, scholarships, anything that can help pay for it. I write as many essays as I can and hope that it's enough to win scholarship money. Other than cost there's also the fact that college will mean that I will have to be more independent. It's a struggle having to figure out how to depend on myself and forge a new path as an adult. I have to figure out how to get a job, manage finances, all while balancing school. It's tough, but I know that with determination and grit I can persevere and make college a little bit easier.

People frequently disregard or stigmatize mental health because they lack information or believe that mental illnesses are not "real" illnesses. Except that they are. A healthy mind equals a healthy body, and poor mental health can be harmful to your body or even fatal. Mental health is everything to me. It influences how we deal with problems, adapt to our surroundings, and even how we feel. Good mental health is essential for our overall well-being and the formation of personal and intimate relationships. I am a very compassionate person who cares about the people around me. I want others to be happy, to enjoy life as much as I do, and to know that they can rely on others. It's one of the reasons I wanted to be a dentist. While good oral hygiene is essential for a healthy and long life, it is also important in how we perceive ourselves. When people see you, the first thing they notice is your smile. A smile with big shiny teeth can make people think you're a nice person to be around, but if you have missing teeth or your teeth are stained yellow, people may be wary of you. They may think you're filthy or unkempt. The appearance of one's teeth can also have an effect on one's self-esteem. I don't want people to feel bad about themselves. I want people to look good on the inside and out. As a dentist, I have the power to make a big difference with small actions. As a mental health advocate, it's crucial that I maintain my own.  When I'm feeling overwhelmed, I take a step back and breathe. For 5 minutes, I put everything else aside and focus solely on relaxing and calming myself. I find that focusing on my mantra, "Think positive thoughts," helps me relax. I also exercise whenever possible because it serves as a good distraction from whatever is bothering me. After school, I walk 10 blocks from one train station to another. I prefer the stairs to the escalators and drink plenty of water. I also make time for myself to recharge as well as socialize with my friends. I also became a member of my school's Better You Club, which focuses on mental health and provides a safe space for students. We talk about our feelings, what's bothering us, and how our days have gone each week. It feels good to just talk about my problems and get them off my chest. We also offer free mental health services to students so that they can get the help they need without incurring debt, and we put up posters about various mental illnesses and ways to help/get help. Everyone is affected by mental illness. It is not something that doesn'tt exist or disappears. Everyone should take care of their mental health because, as I previously stated, a healthy mind equals a healthy body.

I volunteered at Project Cicero, a book drive dedicated to providing books to under-funded NYC teachers, in 11th grade. I initially wanted to participate in Cicero to fulfill my volunteer hours. But after reading about their mission, I knew this was something I wanted to do. Their crusade spoke to me because I loved reading and being captivated by the stories told. I knew then that I wanted another child to fall in love with book the wonders of the literary world. So, I applied, distributing books to teachers seeking to enrich their students. Cicero helped me make a difference by helping children find solace in reading. With just one act, I was able to transport them to the magical world of books, where they could have fun adventures and get to know the same characters and stories that I did as a child. Cicero also revealed how underfunded our public schools were. By providing teachers with the books, they required for their classrooms, I ensured that children received the education they needed and deserved. That they still had a chance to move up the socioeconomic ladder, giving them access to previously inaccessible opportunities. I would never have realized how vulnerable my community was if it hadn't been for reading. Reading and the value of education opened my eyes to the possibility of making a difference. Every day, I am reminded of how critical education is to my development if I am to do well in life. And, while I may lose sight of that privilege sometimes, Project Cicero showed me that many people are not as fortunate, and thus it is crucial that we provide others with that same opportunity. "Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world." Mandela was right because it is education that allows us to not only improve on ourselves, but also society. Education/reading helped Fredrick Douglas escape slavery and advocate for its abolishment because it showed him that he wasn't a "savage animal" only fit for labor, but rather a human being. Malala Yousafzai's pursuit of education is what inspired her to stand up to the Taliban and fight for women's education. Many of the things made possible today would not be possible without education. I want people to recognize the value of books. Books enable us to grow and learn as individuals, allowing us to better ourselves. They impart knowledge while encouraging our curiosity. They provide us with the motivation and determination needed to change lives and transform society. Education is what will enable today's children to change the world tomorrow. And I want people to see that one book at a time.

A sliver of light shines through my blinds, illuminating my bedroom in a glow. I’m sitting on my bed, back arched and face contorted in concentration, typing away fervently on my laptop, opened up to Google Docs. I’m writing a story. An actual story! I’ve never been happier. Here I was, an author, pouring my thoughts/imagination into the world. This was a dream that I’ve had since I first fell in love with the literary world. I've always had my head in the clouds. Every day, I would make up stories in my head, characters, new worlds and old, finding solace in the one thing that I had control over. This vivid power was heightened by the books I read and the stories I heard. I discovered a deep love for reading and a ravenous desire to find something that satisfied my imagination. I enjoyed reading about different stories, developing a special relationship with the characters, learning about their hopes and dreams, and the experiences they had. It was as if I was seeing another world through their eyes. The more I read and the more complex and unique my imagination became, the more I decided I was going to write my own story. I aspired to be a writer like Toni Morrison, Gabriel Márquez, Ray Bradbury, and more. I wanted to put words on a page in a way that anyone who read it would be mesmerized by the stories told, just as I had been by the words of many of the authors I admired. I dreamed of being immortalized, my words living on forever in the hearts and minds of people. So, one day, I grabbed my laptop, opened Google Docs, and began typing away, crafting a new story. This story I was writing had been building in my head for a while, and finally having the chance to let it all out felt amazing. It felt like I was finally getting the chance to live out my dreams. It didn't matter what I was writing; the fact that I was writing was sufficient. It was a revelation. Writing is such an important part of my identity for me. It opened up many doors and allowed me to enjoy the things I created. Writing and reading provided an outlet to let my creativity bloom. I’m a reserved person, and I keep a lot of the things that I wish I could say in my head. I know what I want to say but can't because I lack the courage to do so. I fear being judged by my peers which is matched by my fears of being forgotten. I feel invisible and voiceless, like a bird caged and unable to sing its song. However, when I write, I don't feel as if I'm unable to speak. I can “hear” what I'm saying even though I'm typing on a screen. Others can also “hear” what I wish to say. They can hear all of my dreams, hopes and fears. They know who I am. I'm not invisible. Writing allows me to be seen, gives me confidence. I can accomplish so much if I give myself the chance. My insecurities and fears shouldn't bind me. Instead, I should let them go and put myself out there in the world. I accept who I am, and that I can be more.

When it came to thinking about college, I had already known what I what I wanted to major in: Biology. Biology is the study of life, how it works down to its most basic components, and how it interacts with our environment. Biology was the ideal major for me. As a biology major, I would have many opportunities in the medical field, most notably, dentistry. Many diseases start in the mouth, and I want to be the first to warn someone about a potentially fatal disease. I want to ensure that people practice good oral hygiene, a necessary foundation for a long heathy life. The appearance of one's teeth can also have a significant impact on one's self-esteem. Mental health is very important to me, and I don't want people to feel bad about themselves. I want people to look good inside and out. As a dentist, I have the ability to make significant difference through small actions. Aside from applying to colleges, I'm also trying to break out of my shell. By nature, I am a shy and quiet person. My peers perceive me to be in the background and invisible. Interacting with people my age is a constant battle. I'm filled with anxiety and fear about how people will perceive me. I have difficulty conversing or sharing my interests. I feel like an outsider. I'm tired of being invisible. I want to be noticed. Every day, I muster the courage to speak up and be heard. When I'm with my friends, I try to ignore negative thoughts and self-doubt that clog my head making me fear that my friends don't think of me as a friend. I also try to improve my public speaking skills. Instead of remaining silent, I try to take the initiative in conversations and work on overcoming my social anxiety. I try to focus on things that are positive rather than things that try to lower my self-esteem. I try to be open to new experiences, and I make time for my friends so that I can get to know them better as people who share my interests. Another goal I'm working on is finding work. I'm a part of a program that connects high school students with jobs in New York City. I'm determined to find work so that I can gain experience with "adulthood" as well as for my future career. Getting a job will teach me how to manage money, collaborate with peers, be independent, and so on. With a job, I hope to learn what it's like to work and how to interact with people outside of my family and school. These are the personal goals I'm pursuing, and I'm hoping that through courage, hard work, and determination, I'll be able to achieve them and be proud of how far I've grown as a person.

I'd like to work as a dentist. I want to open my own dental clinic and assist my patients in improving their oral hygiene. Because mental health is important to me, and I want people to feel good about themselves inside and out, I hope to improve my patients' self-esteem and confidence through my work.

Math is universal. Math doesn't lie. Math is trustworthy. To me, math is more than just a subject. Math is life. I despised math like any other child. For the most part, I could understand it, but there were so many areas that I wished I could erase from the face of the Earth. beacuse it was hard for me to grasp it  It was both frustrating and confusing. I felt stupid because I believed that math measured intelligence and that if I wasn't good at it, I wasn't smart. However, as I grew older, I began to see math in a new light. I realized I was wrong about math after practicing with problems ranging from Algebra to Calculus. Perhaps math was not a test of intelligence, but rather something enriching and enjoyable. I never thought of Sudoku as a "math game," but the more I thought about it, the more I realized it was true. To figure out which numbers go where, I had to use my brain. The more I played, the more enjoyable it became. I had a lot of fun figuring out where the numbers should go. It kept myself busy and my mind active. I felt accomplished after completing what was essentially a math problem. That was the first time I discovered math could be enjoyable.  Math was also a universal language. Something that everyone, regardless of age or race, can relate to. Learning to speak a foreign language takes time and practice. Some people simply lack the requisite "ear." However, math transcends all barriers and is accessible to all. The "+" sign has the same meaning in all languages, and the number system is universally understood. Speaking in "Math" can help you communicate with people who share your passion, even if they are on the other side of the world! Math should not be regarded as simply boring. Math has many facets. It's fascinating and enlightening. Even in its most basic form, it is understandable to anyone. That is why I enjoy math.

I started walking more and checking the number of steps that I take because it's such an easy thing that you do all the time. I also drink tons of water every day because water is crucial to our body's survival. I also ensure that I eat plenty of fruits and veggies. Curry and rice are a huge staple at my house, and I love how versatile it is because it allows me to eat healthy while also being tasty. From chicken curry with green beans to beef curry with cabbage to veggie bhaji, I am incorporating a lot of fruits and veggies in my diet so that my body gets nutritious food. My school also has a swimming pool, which I occasionally use to have fun but also relieve any tension. There's also a fitness center, which I used for 10-15 minutes a day. I bring my own food from home, packed with nutrients while also tasty. No matter how small, I make sure I'm making the most of my day. School shouldn't stop me from staying healthy, and instead of lounging around, I make it a point to use the facilities. Why should I stop being healthy mind, body and soul, just because school is in session!? Doing small actions such as these are a great way to maintain a healthy lifestyle. School can be fun, but it can also get stressful at times, especially around test day. Mental health is important to me, and when I feel like I'm getting overwhelmed, I step back and breathe. I forget whatever I'm doing for 5 minutes and just focus on relaxing and calming myself. I focus on my mantra: Think happy thoughts and find it to be a good stress reliever. I also joined my school's Better You Club, a club that focuses on mental health and is a safe space for students. Each week we talk about our feelings, what's bothering us, how our day has been. It feels good to just get those burdens off our shoulders by just talking about them. We also provide students with free mental health services, so that they can get the necessary help they need without being in debt. We also put up posters talking about various mental illnesses and ways to help/get help. Mental health affects everyone, and it's important to realize that and help people when they are struggling. It's just as good to keep a healthy mind as it is to keep a healthy body.

In the rush and hustle that is school, it's important to maintain your health physically and mentally otherwise, you're putting yourself at risk with an unhealthy lifestyle. School can be fun, a place to hang out with friends, but it can also get stressful at times, especially around test day. Mental health is important to me, and when I feel like I'm getting overwhelmed, I step back and breathe. I forget whatever I'm doing for 5 minutes and just focus on relaxing and calming myself. I focus on my mantra: Think happy thoughts and find it to be a good stress reliever. I also joined my school's Better You Club, a club that focuses on mental health and is a safe space for students. Each week we talk about our feelings, what's bothering us, how our day has been. It feels good to just get those burdens off our shoulders by just talking about them. We also provide students with free mental health services, so that they can get the necessary help they need without being in debt. We also put up posters talking about various mental illnesses and ways to help/get help. Mental health affects everyone, and it's important to realize that and help people when they are struggling. It's just as good to keep a healthy mind as it is to keep a healthy body. Speaking of healthy bodies, I make it a point to exercise whenever I can. After school, I walk 10 blocks from my school's train station to the next. I take the stairs instead of the escalators, both to conserve energy and to get my steps in. My school also has a swimming pool, which I occasionally use to have fun but also relieve any tension. There's also a fitness center, which I used for 10-15 minutes a day. I bring my own food from home, packed with nutrients while also tasty. No matter how small, I make sure I'm making the most of my day. School shouldn't stop me from staying healthy, and instead of lounging around, I make it a point to use the facilities. Why should I stop being healthy mind, body and soul, just because school is in session!?

As my senior year starts to end, I am getting more and more excited to go to college. Although I'm still waiting on many admissions decisions, the fact that I know that I'm about to go to college is very exhilarating. I already have experience of what college life is like, as I am spending my senior year of high school at CUNY Hunter College, taking actual college classes (Psychology and Calculus 1) on-campus. At first, I was scared and nervous because I didn't know what I was in for. I didn't know my way around, didn't know my professors, and didn't have my friends with me because they were taking different classes. But as time went on, I started to settle in and found that college life was for me! My professors were super nice and were nothing like the horror stories I heard from former college students! I understood the class material and studied for tests, and was able to get good grades. Exploring the school was an adventure. I found a new room every day. I spent most of my time at the library doing homework, and I loved how quiet and studious it was. I had a ton of free time and was able to get my work done quickly. I made new friends (with actual college students)! Everybody was friendly and helpful. I truly felt like a college student! The things that I experienced at Hunter College, I hope to experience at whatever college I choose to go to too. The friendly atmosphere, the cozy-warm library, independence, and so much more. I can't wait for what's in store and how I grow and shape as a person. It'll be a fun 4 years! Amidst the joy that is college, it can also get stressful at times, especially around test day. Mental health is important to me, and when I feel like I'm getting overwhelmed, I step back and breathe. I forget whatever I'm doing for 5 minutes and just focus on relaxing and calming myself. I focus on my mantra: Think happy thoughts and find it to be a good stress reliever. It's just as good to keep a healthy mind as it is to keep a healthy body. Speaking of healthy bodies, I make it a point to exercise whenever I can. After school, I walk 10 blocks from my school's train station to the next. I take the stairs instead of the escalators, both to conserve energy and to get my steps in. Hunter also has a swimming pool, which I occasionally use to have fun but also relieve any tension. There's also a fitness center, which I used for 10-15 minutes a day. I bring my own food from home, packed with nutrients while also tasty. No matter how small, I make sure I'm making the most of my day. School shouldn't stop me from staying healthy, and instead of lounging around, I make it a point to use the facilities and the campus. Why should I stop being healthy mind, body and soul, just because school is in session!?

Higher education is critical if I want to have a good start in life. While higher education can be expensive, and often times not worth it, a college degree is important to me because of the opportunities and growth it provides me. A college degree is the new high school diploma. The job market is competitive, and many jobs require at least a bachelor's in order to apply. With a degree, I can have an easier time applying for jobs, especially for ones that are higher paying, better benefits and a nice safety net in an economy that can sometimes be unpredictable. Furthermore, a college degree can provide me with the knowledge and tools I need necessary for the field/major I'm going in to. I hope to major in Biology because it is a crucial topic that I need to understand if/when I go into the medical field (specifically dentistry). Many diseases start in the mouth, and I want to be the first to warn someone about a potentially fatal disease. I want to ensure that people practice good oral hygiene, a necessary foundation for a long heathy life. The appearance of one's teeth can also have a significant impact on one's self-esteem. Mental health is very important to me, and I don't want people to feel bad about themselves. I want people to look good inside and out. As a dentist, I have the ability to make significant difference through small actions and with a college degree I will be one step closer to doing just that. A college degree in biology will help to expand my knowledge on the human body and various diseases so that when I'm on the field, I'll be able to recognize symptoms or areas that are affecting my patients. This way, I'll be able to diagnose them with the correct ailment and respond accordingly. I can do so much more with a college degree. I can get the job that I want and in turn help my community. I want to open my own practice in my neighborhood, allowing people to receive help they need to improve their health. To some, a college degree sounds worthless because it is expensive to obtain and sometimes worthless with the job that you have. But I know that with a college degree, I can achieve my dream, all it takes is a little hard work and faith.

Higher education is critical if I want to have a good start in life. While higher education can be expensive, and often times not worth it, higher education is important to me because of the opportunities and growth it provides me. A college degree is the new high school diploma. The job market is competitive, and many jobs require at least a bachelor's in order to apply. With a degree, I can have an easier time applying for jobs, especially for ones that are higher paying, better benefits and a nice safety net in an economy that can sometimes be unpredictable. Furthermore, higher education can provide me with the knowledge and tools I need necessary for the field/major I'm going in to. I hope to major in Biology because it is a crucial topic that I need to understand if/when I go into the medical field (specifically dentistry). Biology will help to expand my knowledge on the human body and various diseases so that when I'm on the field, I'll be able to recognize symptoms or areas that are affecting my patients. This way, I'll be able to diagnose them with the correct ailment and respond accordingly. Higher education is a steppingstone as we leave adolescence and enter adulthood. Higher education also provides us with the ability to grow as a person and show us how to maneuver life. I can learn from my mistakes, so that I don't make them later in life. I can form close relationships with my peers. I can learn how to navigate a healthy life-work balance. College education allows me to expand my horizons, go outside my comfort zones and experiment with myself. I can explore new ideas and meet people from different backgrounds, making me more tolerant and open-minded of my surroundings, qualities that are valued in today's society. Although higher education isn't a requirement, I believe everyone should pursue it, if they are able to. A college degree can open you to more job opportunities, develop important life skills, form social relationships crucial as you journey into adulthood, and can open your eyes to new things previously not known.

When it came to think about college, I had already known what I what I wanted to major in: Biology. Biology is the study of life, how it works down to its most basic components, and how it interacts with our environment. Biology was the ideal major for me. As a biology major, I will have many opportunities in the medical field, such as doctors, surgeons, and, most notably, dentistry. I've always wanted to be a doctor since I was a child. I wanted to help people, heal the sick, and reassure patients that everything would be ok. I wanted to make positive changes. However, as time passed, my dream of becoming a doctor was quickly eclipsed by my dream of becoming a dentist. Many diseases start in the mouth, and I want to be the first to warn someone about a potentially fatal disease. I want to ensure that people practice good oral hygiene, a necessary foundation for a long heathy life. The appearance of one's teeth can also have a significant impact on one's self-esteem. Mental health is very important to me, and I don't want people to feel bad about themselves. I want people to look good inside and out. As a dentist, I have the ability to make significant difference through small actions. A biology degree would not only help me achieve my dream, but I am also very interested in the subject. I enjoy learning about the natural world, and my curiosity takes over when it comes to topics like evolution, ecology, and so on. Learning about my body, in particular, is like learning about myself and how humans evolved over time. When it came time to choose classes in 11th grade, I chose AP Bio as my science class. I knew the classwork would be difficult, but I also knew that this was my chance to learn about the various topics that piqued my interest. When I walked into class, I had no idea what my teacher was talking about. Everything, even cells, was much more complex and detailed! And they were the most basic unit of life! Nonetheless, I didn't let it stop me. I went after school to go over the material with my teacher, I asked questions I was unclear about, and I even went to study groups held by my class on weekends to gain a better understanding. Biology may be a difficult subject, but I wasn't going to let that stop me from learning something new.

When it came to think about college, I had already known what I what I wanted to major in: Biology. Biology is the study of life, how it works down to its most basic components, and how it interacts with our environment. Biology was the ideal major for me. As a biology major, I will have many opportunities in the medical field, such as doctors, surgeons, and, most notably, dentistry. I've always wanted to be a doctor since I was a child. I wanted to help people, heal the sick, and reassure patients that everything would be ok. I wanted to make positive changes. However, as time passed, my dream of becoming a doctor was quickly eclipsed by my dream of becoming a dentist. Many diseases start in the mouth, and I want to be the first to warn someone about a potentially fatal disease. I want to ensure that people practice good oral hygiene, a necessary foundation for a long heathy life. The appearance of one's teeth can also have a significant impact on one's self-esteem. Mental health is very important to me, and I don't want people to feel bad about themselves. I want people to look good inside and out. As a dentist, I have the ability to make significant difference through small actions. A biology degree would not only help me achieve my dream, but I am also very interested in the subject. I enjoy learning about the natural world, and my curiosity takes over when it comes to topics like evolution, ecology, and so on. Learning about my body, in particular, is like learning about myself and how humans evolved over time. When it came time to choose classes in 11th grade, I chose AP Bio as my science class. I knew the classwork would be difficult, but I also knew that this was my chance to learn about the various topics that piqued my interest. When I walked into class, I had no idea what my teacher was talking about. Everything, even cells, was much more complex and detailed! And they were the most basic unit of life! Nonetheless, I didn't let it stop me. I went after school to go over the material with my teacher, I asked questions I was unclear about, and I even went to study groups held by my class on weekends to gain a better understanding. Biology may be a difficult subject, but I wasn't going to let that stop me from learning something new. Our society depends on science. It keeps track of our health, provides medicine to cure diseases, develops new technology to make our lives easier, and expands our knowledge. Science is progress; without it, we'd still be stuck in the Middle Ages. Science has many applications, and as a species, it is critical to our survival. It enables us to confront problems and develop innovative solutions to them. NASA just recently used new technology to intentionally change the motion of a meteor in space, paving the way for new ideas on how to prevent mass planetary destruction. Who knows what else science has in store! It all starts by asking a question. 

A healthy lifestyle includes healthy eating habits. What we eat for breakfast sets the tone for the rest of our day. It's important to remember that healthy eating habits include consuming high-quality proteins, carbohydrates, heart-healthy fats, vitamins, minerals, and water in our foods while avoiding unhealthy foods like packaged foods, saturated fats, and excessive sugar. Eating in this manner aids in the maintenance of our bodies' homeostasis, promoting optimal body weight and disease prevention. Eating healthily is simple. You can begin by eating more fruits and vegetables, avoiding red meat, learning when your body is full, and limiting overeating. All of these things, plus more, can lead to longer life spans, muscle strength, energy, etc. For as long as I could remember, I've always been eating healthy. My mom made it her mission to introduce us to tons of fruits and veggies in a nutritious and delicious way. A majority of my diet consists of curry with rice. I love curry and I love how versatile it is because it allows me to eat healthy while also being tasty! From chicken curry with green beans to beef curry with cabbage to veggie bhaji! The possibilities are endless. Eating healthier helps me lose weight and stay fit. It ensures that my muscles get stronger and I'm not destroying my body with diseases and obesity. It also makes me happier, knowing that I am doing my part to be healthy. Knowing that I have more energy and stamina gives me the confidence boost I need to do what I want. Less junk food means I'm not stressing my body out with unwanted calories. It also improves my mood, making me less sluggish and tired. I feel optimistic about my future, and by eating healthy I am ensuring that I am around longer so that I can enjoy all that life has to offer. I encourage everybody to eat healthy because eating healthy equals a healthy and better life.

Hearing the whoosh of my racket as it hits the feathered birdie into the air. Humming to a Bollywood song that I don't know the words or the meaning of, but randomly popped into my head. Feeling the cool New York breeze envelop me in a hug as I watch the sun set in Manhattan. Opening a book and reading for hours snuggled up in bed. Burst out laughing with my friends, wishing this moment would last forever. These are the things that make me, me. This is who I am, and a lot more. I've wanted to be a doctor since I was a child. I wanted to help people by healing them and making them feel better, and the medical field seemed like the best place to do so. As I grew older, I became more interested in medicine. I applied to and was accepted into New York University's STEP program, which teaches about the medical field. At my school, I joined a medical club where we learned about various diseases and medical professions. I researched colleges with amazing healthcare programs or schools. I knew I wanted to be a doctor; it was just a matter of which one. After careful consideration, I ultimately chose dentistry. A career in dentistry would allow me to not only reap the benefit of medicine, but also to make a huge impact in the lives of my patients. Many diseases start in the mouth, and I want to be the first person to warn someone about a potentially fatal disease. I want to be on the front lines, ensuring that people practice good oral hygiene. Good oral hygiene is necessary for the foundation of a good and long heathy life. The appearance of one's teeth can also have a significant impact on one's mental health and self-esteem, which I hope to change through my work. Mental health is very important to me, and I don't want people to feel bad about themselves or the way that they look. I want people to look good inside and out. I want people to be happy. As a dentist, I have the ability to make a significant difference through small actions. This career allows me to do and change so much, and I can't wait for that day to come.

As a woman of color (Southeast Asian), I am well aware that I must work four times as hard as my white male counterparts. I need to prove to everyone that I have what it takes, that I am not inferior because of my gender or race, and that, in fact, because of those, I am more than capable of pursuing a career in my desired field. Facing racism and sexism on a daily basis taught me not only that I can only rely on myself, but also that I should not give up in the face of adversity. I persevere and push past those obstacles, break those boundaries because I want to be a model to young Desi girls like me, that they too can achieve what they want no matter the pushback. That they have what it takes, to rise through the ranks. I've wanted to be a doctor since I was a child. I wanted to help people by healing them and making them feel better, and the medical field seemed like the best place to do so. As I grew older, I became more interested in medicine. I applied to and was accepted into New York University's STEP program, which teaches about the medical field. At my school, I joined a medical club where we learned about various diseases and medical professions. I researched colleges with amazing and innovative healthcare programs. I decided that I was going to major in Biology or Biochemistry. Every choice I made, I did it to become closer and closer to achieving my dreams. Ultimately, when it came to choosing a profession, I decided that I wanted to be a dentist. A career in dentistry would allow me to not only reap the benefit of medicine, but also to make a huge impact in the lives of my patients. Many diseases start in the mouth, and I want to be the first person to warn someone about a potentially fatal disease. I want to be on the front lines, ensuring that people practice good oral hygiene. Good oral hygiene is necessary for the foundation of a good and long heathy life. The appearance of one's teeth can also have a significant impact on one's mental health and self-esteem, which I hope to change through my work. Mental health is very important to me, and I don't want people to feel bad about themselves or the way that they look. I want people to look good inside and out. I want people to be happy. As a dentist, I have the ability to make a significant difference through small actions. This career allows me to do and change so much, and I can't wait for that day to come.

On January 7, 2022, David Bennet became the first human to successfully receive a transplanted pig heart at the University of Maryland Medical Center. Bennett had been on cardiac support for nearly two months and had been unable to receive a mechanical heart pump due to an irregular heartbeat. Faced with death, university researchers obtained FDA approval to implant Bennett with a pig heart. The surgery was a success, and it opened up many possibilities for organ transplants. All of this was made possible by CRISPR, a revolutionary and relatively new gene editing tool. Like a genetic cut-and-paste tool, scientists have removed DNA-based viruses that usually infect pig organs, raising the chances that these animal organs could be safely transplanted into human patients one day, a process known as xenotransplantation. If the DNA of a cell contains an "undesirable" mutation, the "defective" DNA sequence can be changed with the help of a protein complex containing a guide molecule (CRISPR), a DNA-cutting protein (CAS), and a piece of DNA without the mutation. The guide molecule "reads" the DNA in the cell until it finds the "defective" piece that matches the sequences implanted in the guide molecule. The CAS protein then cuts out this piece and replaces it with a sequence that does not have the undesirable mutation. CRISPR is considered highly significant in biotechnology and medicine as it enables editing of genomes precisely, cheaply, and easily. It can be used in the creation of new medicines, agricultural products, and genetically modified organisms. It can treat genetic diseases and could even modify immune cells to make them more effective at destroying cancer cells. Through it all, CRISPR has the ability to make significant changes in the medical field. As said earlier, CRISPR could make organ transplants easier and more common. People don't have to wait a long time to get the necessary surgery that they need, and CRISPR has the ability to prevent genetic diseases from being passed on. CRISPR can be used to make people's lives better, whether they need an organ transplant or want to improve their immune system to defeat cancer cells. If CRISPR can give a man new life through a genetically modified heart, who knows what else CRISPR is capable of, if in the right hands?

Hope is what gets me out of bed every day because I believe that today will be a good day. Hope is what keeps me studying for my Calculus 1 test instead of breaking out in hives and worrying that I'll fail a college level class because I know that if I just have the hope to try, I'll do fine. Hope motivates me to attend all of my school's badminton games because, even if we're not perfect, I have hope that we'll win one set. Hope is what keeps me from sinking into depression, feeling isolated, and fearful that society will never return to normalcy following the COVID-19 pandemic. Nonetheless, I remain optimistic that society will persevere, its effects will fade, and we will return to a time where we can all see each other smile. Hope is what keeps me going, what convinces me to never give up and to always look on the bright side of life. I have negative thoughts that hurt my self-esteem and prevent me from living my life. I worry constantly from overanalyzing everything and wondering what it all means to nervously socializing with my friends and wondering if they like having me around. These thoughts bring me down, making me feel bad about myself and my introversion because I feel as if I'm not good enough. Despite this, I remain hopeful that these feelings are baseless. I have hope that my friends accept me for who I am, and that my social anxiety will improve. I'm hoping that things aren't as stressful as I make them out to be, and that I just need to take things one step at a time. Hope gives me the strength to keep going. Despite the difficulties, all I need to do is remain optimistic that things will improve. Every day is a testament to the challenges I face and a reminder that, despite everything that tries to bring me down, I still have hope that I will persevere and come out unscathed and whole. All I have to do is just keep hoping.

Hearing the whoosh of my racket as it hits the feathered birdie into the air. Humming to a Bollywood song that I don't know the words or the meaning of, but randomly popped into my head. Feeling the cool New York breeze envelop me in a hug as I watch the sun set in Manhattan. Opening a book and reading for hours snuggled up in bed. Burst out laughing with my friends, wishing this moment would last forever. These are the things that make me, me. This is who I am, and a lot more. I've wanted to be a doctor since I was a child. I wanted to help people by healing them and making them feel better, and the medical field seemed like the best place to do so. As I grew older, I became more interested in medicine. I applied to and was accepted into New York University's STEP program, which teaches about the medical field. At my school, I joined a medical club where we learned about various diseases and medical professions. I researched colleges with amazing and innovative healthcare programs. I decided that I was going to major in Biology or Biochemistry. Every choice I made, I did it to become closer and closer to achieving my dreams. Ultimately, when it came to choosing a profession, I decided that I wanted to be a dentist. A career in dentistry would allow me to not only reap the benefit of medicine, but also to make a huge impact in the lives of my patients. Many diseases start in the mouth, and I want to be the first person to warn someone about a potentially fatal disease. I want to be on the front lines, ensuring that people practice good oral hygiene. Good oral hygiene is necessary for the foundation of a good and long heathy life. The appearance of one's teeth can also have a significant impact on one's mental health and self-esteem, which I hope to change through my work. Mental health is very important to me, and I don't want people to feel bad about themselves or the way that they look. I want people to look good inside and out. I want people to be happy. As a dentist, I have the ability to make a significant difference through small actions. This career allows me to do and change so much, and I can't wait for that day to come.

Soldier’s Requiem “Move on, soldier! Your time in Hell is over! Go on and climb the golden stairs towards your lofty closure! What more could you want, what more could you need? Now is the time for rest, you’ve fulfilled your solemn creed!” Her smile is like a child’s bliss. Her hair is wavy bound. Her eyes are like an angel’s kiss. Her heart is warm and profound. “Quit stalling, soldier! Time to move on! You're bound for Heaven, say hello to God. Is this not what you want? Is this not what you’ve fought for? To rest underneath a vine and fig tree, with none to want and languor!” A baby in her arms. She waves pleasantly. Sending warm regards. Pure ecstasy. “What are you thinking, soldier? Aren’t you tired? Of digging trenches, throwing grenades, guns fired? You’ve made your country proud. This is your reward! Defender of Uncle Sam, you’ve earned this and more!” Who are they ingrained in my mind? Who I remember faintly of another life. They seem familiar as if our fates are aligned. Could it be, my child and wife? “I remember now, my life before this. Who I really fought for, to save from danger’s grip.” “So what soldier, no use going back. You’ve made your bed. Just let it all go to black.” “Why, I’ve endured so much. Pain, suffering and foe. Why did it have to end like this? Why can’t I be with them? Why do I have to go?” "I’m sorry boy, that isn’t how it works. Poor child conscripted in an old man’s war and just ended up as another corpse. You wanted to protect. You got your wish. This is how it ends. Another tragedy whose life ended young. Who dreamed of hope and safety just like everyone. Time and time again, I’ve seen it all before. So many aspirations and yet ended dying as a martyr. Don’t worry, you got your wish in the end. Family’s safe in grief, but godsend. So come now, child. Time to rest. You’ve endured so much. Of pain, sorrow, and dread. They’re safe now, no need to worry. You’ll see them again, God worthy.”

I have always wanted to be a doctor since I was a child. It might sound cliche, but it's true. I want to be a beacon of hope and a paragon of healing. I want to make a positive change in the medical field and an impactful difference towards my patients and the world. I want to help people by healing them and making them feel better, and the medical field seemed like the best place to do so. As I grew older, I became more interested in medicine. I applied to and was accepted into New York University's STEP program, which teaches about the medical field. At my school, I joined a medical club where we learned about various diseases and medical professions. I researched colleges with amazing healthcare programs or schools. I knew I wanted to be a doctor; it was just a matter of which one. From pediatrician to nurse, I wanted a job where I could do more. Pediatricians are doctors who specialize in children's health. I enjoyed working with children, putting them at ease and making them smile. I love watching my baby cousins and playing with them. As a doctor I'd be able to empathize with children and know first-hand how to care/what their needs are because I've done it before. A nurse is in charge of a diverse group of people, not just children. I want to help people and take care of them when they are sick or in pain. I want to be someone on whom they can rely, especially in terms of their emotional well-being. I want to be the person who holds their hand, tells them everything will be fine, and guide them through the end. Ultimately, I chose dentistry. Many diseases start in the mouth, and I want to be the first person to warn someone about a potentially fatal disease. I want to be on the front lines, ensuring that people practice good oral hygiene. The appearance of one's teeth can have a significant impact on one's mental health and self-esteem, which I hope to change through my work. I want people to feel better about themselves. To be more confident in their appearance. As a dentist, I have the ability to make a significant difference through small actions. This career allows me to do and change so much, and I can't wait for that day to come.

Hearing the whoosh of my racket as it hits the feathered birdie into the air. Humming to a Bollywood song that I don't know the words or the meaning of, but randomly popped into my head. Feeling the cool New York breeze envelop me in a hug as I watch the sun set in Manhattan. Opening a book and reading for hours snuggled up in bed. Burst out laughing with my friends, wishing this moment would last forever. These are the things that make me, me. This is who I am, and a lot more. I've wanted to be a doctor since I was a child. I wanted to help people by healing them and making them feel better, and the medical field seemed like the best place to do so. As I grew older, I became more interested in medicine. I applied to and was accepted into New York University's STEP program, which teaches about the medical field. At my school, I joined a medical club where we learned about various diseases and medical professions. I researched colleges with amazing healthcare programs or schools. I knew I wanted to be a doctor; it was just a matter of which one. From pediatrician to nurse, I wanted a job where I could do more. Pediatricians are doctors who specialize in children's health. I enjoyed working with children and even worked with them at a summer camp. I enjoyed watching my baby cousins and playing with them. I'd be able to empathize with them and care for their needs as a pediatrician because I've done it before. A nurse is in charge of a diverse group of people, not just children. I want to help people and take care of them when they are sick or in pain. I want to be someone on whom they can rely, especially in terms of their emotional well-being. I want to be the person who holds their hand, tells them everything will be fine, and guide them through the end. Ultimately, I chose dentistry. Many diseases start in the mouth, and I want to be the first person to warn someone about a potentially fatal disease. I want to be on the front lines, ensuring that people practice good oral hygiene. The appearance of one's teeth can have a significant impact on one's mental health and self-esteem, which I hope to change through my work. I want people to feel better about themselves. As a dentist, I have the ability to make a significant difference through small actions. This career allows me to do and change so much, and I can't wait for that day to come.

Hearing the whoosh of my racket as it hits the feathered birdie into the air. Humming to a Bollywood song that I don't know the words or the meaning of, but randomly popped into my head. Feeling the cool New York breeze envelop me in a hug as I watch the sun set in Manhattan. Opening a book and reading for hours snuggled up in bed. Burst out laughing with my friends, wishing this moment would last forever. These are the things that make me, me. This is who I am, and a lot more. I've wanted to be a doctor since I was a child. I wanted to help people by healing them and making them feel better, and the medical field seemed like the best place to do so. As I grew older, I became more interested in medicine. I applied to and was accepted into New York University's STEP program, which teaches about the medical field. At my school, I joined a medical club where we learned about various diseases and medical professions. I researched colleges with amazing healthcare programs or schools. I knew I wanted to be a doctor; it was just a matter of which one. From pediatrician to nurse, I wanted a job where I could do more. Pediatricians are doctors who specialize in children's health. I enjoyed working with children and even worked with them at a summer camp. I enjoyed watching my baby cousins and playing with them. I'd be able to empathize with them and care for their needs as a pediatrician because I've done it before. A nurse is in charge of a diverse group of people, not just children. I want to help people and take care of them when they are sick or in pain. I want to be someone on whom they can rely, especially in terms of their emotional well-being. I want to be the person who holds their hand, tells them everything will be fine, and guide them through the end. Ultimately, I chose dentistry. Many diseases start in the mouth, and I want to be the first person to warn someone about a potentially fatal disease. I want to be on the front lines, ensuring that people practice good oral hygiene. The appearance of one's teeth can have a significant impact on one's mental health and self-esteem, which I hope to change through my work. I want people to feel better about themselves. As a dentist, I have the ability to make a significant difference through small actions. This career allows me to do and change so much, and I can't wait for that day to come.

She's standing in front of a house adorned with Halloween decorations, from Jack o'lanterns to skeletons and spooky spiderwebs. Her smile is carefree, and her round, cherubic face is framed by short, layered hair. She's wearing sea green scrubs and, over them, a long white lab coat. A stethoscope is curled around her neck. The date the photo was printed is stamped on the back, forever memorializing this moment, this memory. Looking back at this photo, I can see that even as a child, I aspired to be a doctor. I wasn't sure what kind of doctor I wanted to be, but I knew I wanted to be Sometimes, I would play pretend, making up diagnoses for my stuffed animals and trying to heal them. Or I would draw pictures of myself as a doctor and hang them up all over my room. As I grew older, I became more interested in medicine. I applied for and was accepted into NYU's STEP program, which teaches about the medical field. At my school, I joined a medical club where we learned about various diseases and medical professions. Everything I did was to get closer to becoming a doctor, but not just any doctor. I now aspired to be a pediatrician, a nurse, or even a dentist. These were the kinds of jobs I aspired to have. Pediatricians are medical doctors who specialize in children. I enjoyed working with children and have even worked at a summer camp with them. I enjoyed playing with my baby cousins and keeping an eye on them. As a pediatrician, I'd be able to empathize with them and care for their needs because I've done it before. A nurse is responsible for a wide range of people, not just children. I want to assist people and care for them when they are ill or in pain. I want to be able to make certain that they are happy and well-cared for. If I am unable to become a pediatrician or nurse, I believe that becoming a dentist is an excellent backup plan. Many diseases begin in the mouth, and I want to be the first person to alert someone and prevent a deadly disease from occurring. Being a dentist is also less demanding than being a nurse or pediatrician. I can easily balance a work/life schedule, which is beneficial to my mental health. Whatever I end up doing, I know that medicine is my true calling. I want to be someone who helps others, gives back to her community, demonstrates empathy and compassion, and, most importantly, lives the life she desires.

When Disney's Frozen first came out, I assumed it would be just another cliched story that had been told a million times before. How wrong I was, because despite all the tropes and hackneyed characters, one stood out to me the most. One I never thought I'd be able to relate to or inspire me to change. Cursed or born with the power to manipulate ice/snow, Elsa was taught from an early age to hide her powers after accidently hurting her younger sister, Anna one night. Forced to wear gloves, she was taught to "conceal, don't feel", so as to not agitate her powers and risk hurting someone again. She also isolated herself off from her sister and her kingdom out of fear of what she might do to them if she lost control. This went on for years until Elsa unintentionally unleashed her powers in front of everyone one night after a fight with Anna. Elsa flees to the Northern Mountains, where she finally acknowledges her powers in a song called "Let it Go," and builds an ice palace to start a new life. Elsa reminded me of myself through her actions. She is afraid of being perceived as the "other" if she shows her true self to the world. I struggle with being myself in front of my friends, lacking the courage to speak up. I get nervous around other people. I'm having difficulty connecting with them, and I'm afraid that one wrong move will mark me as an outsider. Just as Elsa conceals her powers with gloves, I conceal who I am by remaining silent and in the background. It wasn't until Elsa performed her famous song "Let it Go" that I realized what I was doing was holding me back. Elsa is hesitant to use her powers at first, but as the song progresses, she becomes more free-spirited, showing no hesitation in using her powers because they make up who she is. I realized that I shouldn't hide who I am. I should speak up for myself and let go of my fear of being judged. Like Elsa, I should not be concerned with what others think; instead, I should embrace my fears and insecurities and simply be myself. Elsa taught me that it is better to show rather than conceal who you are.

She's standing in front of a house adorned with Halloween decorations, from Jack o'lanterns to skeletons and spooky spiderwebs. Her smile is carefree, and her round, cherubic face is framed by short, layered hair. She's wearing sea green scrubs and, over them, a long white lab coat. A stethoscope is curled around her neck. The date the photo was printed is stamped on the back, forever memorializing this moment, this memory. Looking back at this photo, I can see that even as a child, I aspired to be a doctor. I wasn't sure what kind of doctor I wanted to be, but I knew I wanted to be Sometimes, I would play pretend, making up diagnoses for my stuffed animals and trying to heal them. Or I would draw pictures of myself as a doctor and hang them up all over my room. As I grew older, I became more interested in medicine. I applied for and was accepted into NYU's STEP program, which teaches about the medical field. At my school, I joined a medical club where we learned about various diseases and medical professions. Everything I did was to get closer to becoming a doctor, but not just any doctor. I now aspired to be a pediatrician, a nurse, or even a dentist. These were the kinds of jobs I aspired to have. Pediatricians are medical doctors who specialize in children. I enjoyed working with children and have even worked at a summer camp with them. I enjoyed playing with my baby cousins and keeping an eye on them. As a pediatrician, I'd be able to empathize with them and care for their needs because I've done it before. A nurse is responsible for a wide range of people, not just children. I want to assist people and care for them when they are ill or in pain. I want to be able to make certain that they are happy and well-cared for. If I am unable to become a pediatrician or nurse, I believe that becoming a dentist is an excellent backup plan. Many diseases begin in the mouth, and I want to be the first person to alert someone and prevent a deadly disease from occurring. Being a dentist is also less demanding than being a nurse or pediatrician. I can easily balance a work/life schedule, which is beneficial to my mental health. Regardless of what I end up as, I know that medicine is my passion. I also know that as a woman of color, I have to work four times as hard in order to reach the same level as my white male counterparts. Diversity in the workplace is important to me because it ensures that I am represented and that I feel seen. I know that there are people like me that I can rely on and understand what I'm going through and my struggles. Without diversity, I'd feel like I'm the only one advocating for myself, and I know that seeing a woman of color like myself in a highly competitive field can inspire young girls who look and act like me to pursue their dreams. I can show them that it's not hard to get to where you want and that there are others like them, proving those who are against them wrong. That we are capable of rising to the occasion and overcoming obstacles.

A sliver of golden light shines through my blinds, illuminating my bedroom in a heavenly glow. I’m sitting on my bed, back arched and face contorted in concentration, typing away fervently on my laptop, which is open up to Google Docs. I’m writing a story. An actual story! I’ve never been happier in my life. Here I was, an author, pouring my thoughts and imagination into the world. This was a dream, a dream that I’ve had since I first fell in love with the wonders and awe of the literacy world. For as long as I could remember, I've always had my head in the clouds. My mind was a machine, a puzzle only I could solve. All day, every day, I would make up stories in my head, characters and plot points, new worlds and old, finding solace in the one thing that I had absolute control over. This vivid power was heightened by the books I read and the stories that I heard. I discovered a deep love for reading as well as a ravenous desire to find something that satisfied my imagination. I enjoyed reading about different stories and developing a special relationship with the characters, learning about their hopes and dreams, where they live, and the experiences they had. It was as if I was seeing another world through their eyes, another life. The more books I read and the more complex and unique my imagination became, the more I decided I was going to write my own story, to carve a new world for others to enjoy. I aspired to be a writer like Toni Morrison, Gabriel Márquez, Ray Bradbury, and other great authors I had read about. I wanted to put words on a page in such a unique but also thought-provoking way that anyone who read it would be mesmerized by the stories I told, just as I had been by the words of many of the authors I admired. So, one day, I grabbed my laptop, opened Google Docs, and began typing away, word by word, sentence by sentence, crafting a new story. This story I was writing had been building in my head for a while, and finally having the chance to let it all out felt amazing and mind-altering. It felt like I was finally getting the chance to live out my dreams. It didn't matter what I was writing; the fact that I was writing was sufficient. It was like a revelation. Writing is such an important part of my identity for me. It opened up many doors for me and allowed me to simply enjoy the things I created. Writing and reading provided an outlet to let my creativity bloom. I’m a reserved person, and I keep a lot of the things that I wish I could say in my head. I know what I want to say but can't because I lack the courage to do so. I feel invisible and voiceless, like a bird caged and unable to sing. However, when I write, I don't feel as if I'm unable to speak. I can “hear” what I'm saying even though I'm typing on a screen. Others too. They can “hear” what I wish to say. They can hear all of my dreams and desires, hopes and fears. I am no longer invisible. Writing allows me to be seen. Writing gives me more self-assurance. I can accomplish so much if I give myself the chance. My insecurities and fears should not bind me. Instead, I should embrace them, accept who I am, and simply be. Live.

For as long as I could remember, I've always had my head in the clouds. My mind was a machine, an imaginative enigma only I understood and had access to. All day, every day, I would make up stories in my head, characters, and plot points, new worlds and old, finding solace in the one thing that I had absolute control over. This vivid power was enhanced by the books that I consumed and the stories it opened me up to. I found a deep love for reading, and a ravenous desire to seek something that fulfilled my imagination. I loved reading about various stories, developing a special relationship with the characters, and having the chance to learn about their hopes and dreams, where they live, and the experiences they faced. It was like I was seeing another world through their eyes, and with that, I felt complete. During my freshmen year of high school, the number of books that I was consuming per month was starting to dwindle as I've become busy with friends, homework, family, etc. I felt that I did not have enough time to partake in the hobby that I loved. Halfway through the year, I was barely able to finish even one book. Then suddenly Covid-19 happened, businesses closed down, schools were shut down, and the city was brought to a standstill. Forced to stay home, the Pandemic had given me an opportunity I didn't know I needed. A blessing in disguise. I was able to finish my schoolwork faster and without having to hang out with my friends or go outside, I was allowed to read as much as my heart content. I got back into the swing of things, reading more and every week, able to finish several books in a single month than I did in a year. Reading during the pandemic allowed me to clear my head and get away from all of the burdens that were put on me because of the pandemic. For just a single moment, reading allowed me to forget about my schoolwork, my fears of my relatives getting sick, my social anxiety, everything. My love for reading allowed me to push through and come out of the pandemic, stronger and more whole instead of broken. It's because of reading that during my junior year, when schools were finally re-opened that I volunteered at Project Cicero after my school sent out an email asking for volunteers. Project Cicero was a book drive to help under-developed NYC teachers and classrooms the ability to enhance their students' education. When I read about their mission on their website, I knew that this was something that I wanted to do. I wanted to give back to my community and what better way to do that, then by sharing my love of reading for young kids. I decided right then and there to volunteer and for the next two days that the event was happening I helped to organize and distribute books of various genres and ages to teachers looking to enrich and better the lives of their students. Project Cicero gave me the opportunity to make a difference, allowing me to not only spread my love of reading to others but also to make a difference in other peoples' lives. With just one act, I was able to give a young girl or boy the chance to partake in reading and find joy in it just like I did as a little girl. With just one act, I was able to make them forget their worries and for just one moment allow them into the magical world of books, having fun adventures and getting to know the same characters and stories that I grew up and bonded with. Project Cicero also gave me the chance to see how much help my community needed. I saw a problem with the way our public schools were funded and with that it helped me to find a solution no matter how small. By giving teachers a chance to find the books they needed for their classrooms, I was ensuring that some group of kids out there was getting the education that they deserved, allowing them to slowly climb up the social ladder and have a better life then the ones they were given. An opportunity once denied from them for a long time and only recently opened up. If it wasn't for my love of reading and the opportunities, it granted me, I never would of saw how my community was in danger of breaking down. Reading opened up my eyes and allowed me to make a difference. I want people, not just my community, but the whole world to see the value in books and how life-changing they can be. Books provide an escape from the harsh reality we face and also allow us to indulge in our whimsical fantasies. No matter what, I want people to see that, one book at a time.