As a 28-year-old woman, my life has been a testament to the power of perseverance, resilience, and an unwavering work ethic. Born with eczema, a chronic skin condition that often leaves its mark not only on the skin but on one's overall well-being, my journey has been filled with challenges that have shaped me into the person I am today. Growing up with eczema was far from easy. Not only did it bring physical discomfort, but it also posed financial burdens on my family. Countless doctor visits, medications, and specialized skincare products strained our resources. Despite the hurdles, my family and I never allowed ourselves to succumb to the difficulties. We faced each flare-up with determination and a spirit that refused to be defeated. My journey took a significant turn as I embarked on a path that demanded even more from me – a full-time position as an operations manager for a level I trauma center and tertiary hospital. The high-stress nature of the job, coupled with the responsibilities of being a research assistant for the Department of Public Health at my school, a Master's of Public Health student, and a prospective law student, heightened the challenges I faced. The seasonal and hormonal flare-ups seemed to intensify in the face of the unusual amounts of stress. However, I made a conscious decision early on: I would not allow my circumstances to dictate my success or happiness. Instead of making excuses for myself, I embraced the difficulties and transformed them into opportunities for growth. There were days when I questioned my ability to manage it all, but I refused to throw pity parties for myself. I learned to channel my energy into finding solutions and pushing forward, no matter the odds stacked against me. One key factor that fueled my journey was the realization of the importance of being a hard worker with a strong work ethic. The demanding nature of my roles required a level of dedication that went beyond the ordinary. I discovered that when you care deeply about the work you do, it becomes a driving force on the particularly hard days. My commitment to making a difference in the healthcare and public health sectors became my anchor, keeping me focused and motivated in the face of adversity. This journey has not only shaped my professional life but has instilled in me a deep sense of compassion and understanding for others. The struggles I faced allowed me to develop a unique perspective on leadership. As a leader, I've learned the importance of patience and empathy, understanding that everyone is fighting battles of their own. My experiences have made me a more approachable and supportive leader, fostering an environment where my team feels valued and understood. In conclusion, my journey as a 28-year-old woman born with eczema has been marked by challenges, triumphs, and an unyielding spirit. I have learned that overcoming obstacles requires more than just determination – it demands a commitment to hard work, a strong work ethic, and a genuine passion for what you do. My experiences have not only shaped my professional success but have also molded me into a compassionate and understanding leader. Through it all, I've embraced the mantra of never making excuses, never throwing pity parties, and always working hard, for it is in these principles that true resilience is found.

In a world grappling with myriad public health challenges, the story of a 28-year-old Master of Public Health (MPH) student stands out as an inspiring narrative of dedication, resilience, and a commitment to making a lasting impact. This individual not only embodies the spirit of academic excellence but also serves as a beacon of hope for those who have experienced the harrowing effects of domestic and sexual abuse. This remarkable individual, concurrently a research assistant and operations manager for a Level I trauma center and tertiary hospital, brings a unique blend of academic acumen and practical experience to the table. Armed with a Bachelor's degree in Interdisciplinary Studies, the journey towards an MPH is a testament to the commitment to address the multifaceted challenges that communities face. The role of a research assistant requires a keen analytical mind and a passion for unraveling the complexities of public health issues. In this capacity, the 28-year-old student delves into the heart of epidemiological studies, contributing valuable insights to the scientific community. This commitment to research not only furthers academic knowledge but also has a ripple effect on healthcare policies and interventions, ultimately benefiting the wider society. Simultaneously, as the operations manager for a Level I trauma center and tertiary hospital, this individual plays a pivotal role in ensuring the seamless functioning of a critical healthcare institution. The ability to manage operations in such a high-stakes environment speaks volumes about leadership, organizational skills, and a deep sense of responsibility towards the well-being of the community. However, the journey does not stop here. The vision extends beyond the MPH program, with aspirations to attend a JD program thereafter. The fusion of public health and legal expertise positions this individual as a formidable force in advocating for the rights and well-being of those who have fallen victim to domestic and sexual abuse. The interdisciplinary approach underscores a commitment to addressing these issues holistically, bridging gaps between legal frameworks and public health strategies. The true essence of this journey lies in the unwavering dedication to support young women who have experienced the trauma of domestic and sexual abuse. The 28-year-old student, armed with a robust education and a holistic perspective gained from both the MPH and JD programs, aspires to be a catalyst for change in the lives of survivors. Through legal advocacy, public health initiatives, and community engagement, the goal is not just to heal wounds but to empower individuals to reclaim control over their lives. The impact this individual aims to make on the world is profound and far-reaching. By leveraging the knowledge and skills acquired through academic pursuits, coupled with real-world experience in trauma center operations, a transformative influence is anticipated. From shaping policies that address the root causes of abuse to fostering a culture of support and empathy, the positive contribution to society is immeasurable. In conclusion, the 28-year-old MPH student, research assistant, operations manager, and future JD candidate is a force to be reckoned with in the quest for societal betterment. Through a tireless dedication to academic and practical pursuits, this individual seeks to create a world where survivors of domestic and sexual abuse not only find healing but also regain agency and control over their lives. In this journey towards advocacy and empowerment, the positive impact on the world is not just a goal but a destiny waiting to unfold.

Success looks like leading a team of happy individuals that have other opportunities to work for other corporations, but choose to stay because they know that they are treated well and considered in all major business decisions. Success looks like my family being happy and healthy and feeling like they have enough of my time and energy and attention, while feeling secure enough to branch off into their own endeavors and hobbies. Success looks like having the room to delve into sub-specialties of academia and providing ground-breaking research with a dedicated team, while still fostering and nurturing meaningful relationships with students and the future workforce of the industry. Success looks like having balance, even when that can be challenging and it feels like one area gets more attention and energy than another. Success looks like the freedom of choice and where to contribute one's abilities and skills. Success looks like going above and beyond, even when it's not asked or required because the passion for the work shines through as much as possible. As a first-generation college graduate, getting my Bachelor's degree in Interdisciplinary Studies was a big deal for my family. My mother was born in another country and immigrated to America when she was only eight years old. My mother and my father completed some college education but did not graduate. The decision to continue my education past Bachelor's affected not only me, but also the rest of my family because I am the first one to achieve this accomplishment. The opportunity to gain more knowledge and education means more to me than I can say because I am only afforded this opportunity because of the sacrifices my family made for me decades ago. As a student in a Master's of Public Health program, this opportunity will help me to achieve success by relieving some of the financial responsibility that comes along with it. While working full-time as a operations manager for a level I trauma center and tertiary hospital, as well as being a research assistant for my department, I look for opportunities to provide as much support to my departments as I can. I am passionate about advocacy and helping people to find their voice and use it, especially since there was a time when I could not find my own voice. My plan is to enroll in a law program once I finish my MPH so that I can become well-versed and more comfortable with the law and help others to be able to navigate it in order to protect their rights and civil liberties. The legal sector needs more representation of Black women in order to accurately represent the communities they serve. Opportunities like this provide a bridging of that gap so that students can worry less about making their tuition payments and more about keeping their grades up, getting as involved as possible during their academic career, and making meaningful professional connections that will carry them through the rest of their lives and futures.