Success, to me, is more than personal achievement—it is the ability to uplift others while honoring the sacrifices that have shaped my journey. One of my favorite childhood memories was swinging from my parents' arms as they held me up from the ground. Though my parents can no longer support my weight, they continue to lift me and support me by working demanding jobs to provide me with better opportunities. As I have watched the hands that lifted me up collect scars over years of labor-intensive work, I dream of giving back to my parents and helping them recover their sacrificed health. I remember one night in particular when my mother was doubled over in pain. She had been quietly enduring stomach discomfort for weeks, but when her symptoms worsened, she had no choice but to go to the emergency room. Despite trying to translate for my immigrant mother, her limited English and pain made it difficult for her to describe her feelings. After a brief consultation, she was sent home with medication, no explanation about her condition, and no follow-up plan. Moments like this made me realize how easily patients from marginalized communities can fall through the cracks — not because they are unwilling to seek care, but because the system often feels inaccessible to them. This experience sparked my desire to pursue medicine and become a physician who extends support to vulnerable populations like my parents. The journey to becoming a physician has been challenging. Although my grades and test scores matched those of top students, as a first-generation student in a small immigrant community lacking mentors from whom I could learn, I experienced uncertainty and closed doors. Every step of the process, from applying to college and medical school, I had to learn first-hand from experience. Now, as the first Korean-American student to enter medical school from my hometown, I hope to give back to my community by mentoring students to achieve their dreams and become leaders in their own communities. In college, my most impactful experience came while mentoring Michael, a 10-year-old student raised by a single mother. In the middle of his neighborhood was a tree with countless teddy bears nailed to it. Learning that each bear mirrored the loss of a child’s life by gang violence in his community, I knew I needed to do more than simply help Michael with his homework; I needed to empower him - to instill a sense of confidence and motivation to overcome the challenges ahead. Seeing his struggle reminded me of my own journey, and I realized that meaningful change must start with mentorship and advocacy. As a future physician, I hope to create pathways for students in underserved communities to define and achieve their dreams despite their circumstances. Success, to me, is the fulfillment of a promise—to my parents, my community, and future generations. It is about breaking barriers, giving back, and ensuring that others have the guidance and resources to define and achieve their own success. I have already begun fulfilling this promise by mentoring pre-med students from underserved backgrounds, sharing my experiences, and helping them navigate the challenges of higher education. With the support of this scholarship, I will continue striving to make that vision a reality, ensuring that my journey serves as a beacon of hope for those who come after me. I hope to inspire others to believe that their dreams are valid, their aspirations are achievable, and that success is not about reaching the top alone, but about bringing others up with you. Through my journey and experiences, I learned that when the walls that separate cultures and resources are broken down and turned flat, they become bridges that bring unity, healing, and compassion. Just as my parents lifted me up as a child, I now seek to lift up others. As a future physician, I will lift up my parents and those who face the toughest uphill climb by turning the walls that cause disparities into bridges that connect individuals to medicine and the resources they need to find hope for tomorrow.

Growing up in an immigrant household shaped nearly every aspect of my life — from the language we spoke at home to the way we navigated healthcare. As a child of Korean immigrants, I watched my parents struggle to access medical care. Doctor visits were rare in our home, not because my parents weren’t in need, but because they believed healthcare was simply out of reach. I remember one night in particular when my mother was doubled over in pain. She had been quietly enduring stomach discomfort for weeks, but when her symptoms worsened, she had no choice but to go to the emergency room. We waited for hours, my mother barely able to speak through the pain. I watched her struggle to communicate with the staff; her limited English made it difficult to describe her feelings. After a brief consultation, she was sent home with medication, no explanation about her condition, and no follow-up plan. Moments like this made me realize how easily patients from marginalized communities can fall through the cracks — not because they are unwilling to seek care, but because the system often feels inaccessible to them. This experience solidified my desire to pursue medicine at Rush Medical College. My goal is to become a physician who provides empathetic, high-quality care to underserved communities. I want to create a safe space where patients like my parents feel heard and understood, and where language and financial barriers no longer prevent families from getting the help they need. To support myself financially throughout medical school, I work as a student researcher studying how health coaching and preventive care can improve outcomes for food-insecure populations. My research involves interviewing patients about their lifestyle habits and challenges, developing tailored wellness strategies, and evaluating how these interventions improve their long-term health. I’ve seen firsthand how simple changes — like better nutrition education or improved access to affordable medications — can significantly reduce the risk of chronic disease. Balancing this demanding role with my studies has been challenging. I’ve spent late nights analyzing data and early mornings preparing for research presentations, all while managing my coursework and clinical responsibilities. At times, the stress has been overwhelming, but this experience has strengthened my resilience and deepened my understanding of what patients experience when juggling multiple responsibilities. Working while pursuing my medical degree has taught me that perseverance and compassion go hand in hand — a lesson I will carry with me as a physician. This scholarship would allow me to reduce my work hours and dedicate more time to my clinical training and volunteer efforts in immigrant communities. I want to expand my involvement in outreach programs that provide free health screenings and educational workshops for non-English-speaking families. By combining my medical education with my research experience, I hope to develop strategies that empower underserved communities to take control of their health. Ultimately, I aim to become a physician who offers more than just medical care — I want to provide comfort, understanding, and hope to those who feel excluded from the healthcare system. By pursuing this path, I hope to honor my parents’ sacrifices and ensure that no one is denied the care they deserve simply because of language, background, or financial hardship.

Adversity has shaped every step of my journey to becoming a physician. As the child of immigrant parents who entered the United States legally yet struggled to obtain citizenship, I faced obstacles that felt insurmountable. Financial instability, uncertain status, and limited educational opportunities seemed to define my path. Yet I learned that while "You can’t always control what happens, you can control how you react to it." That mindset became my anchor through the most challenging moments. Growing up, my family’s immigration status cast a long shadow over my life. Despite my parents’ tireless efforts, bureaucratic roadblocks made legal residency an impossible dream. Without citizenship, I couldn’t qualify for federal financial aid, and scholarships for students like me were rare. Although my grades and test scores matched those of top students, I was repeatedly rejected from colleges that categorized me as an international applicant. Watching my peers secure their futures while I faced closed doors was devastating. In those moments of despair, I reminded myself that my circumstances did not have to define me and I could control my response. Determined to pursue my education, I began working in high school to save for tuition. Long shifts were followed by late nights studying, and exhaustion became routine. Yet my persistence paid off — I was accepted to the University of Virginia on a full-ride scholarship. Even then, I continued working to support myself, knowing my education was a rare and precious opportunity. Each challenge reinforced my belief that success is not defined by circumstances but by resilience and response. Medical school brought similar struggles. Despite my qualifications, my status disqualified me from consideration at many institutions. Again, I chose resilience over defeat. I refused to let frustration overpower my resolve and was ultimately accepted into Rush Medical College. As a first-generation college and medical student, I often felt overwhelmed and uncertain. Imposter syndrome whispered that I didn’t belong. But I reminded myself that my hard work had earned me a place, and each step forward reinforced my belief that perseverance defines success more than circumstances ever could. These experiences shaped me into a person who understands what it feels like to be unseen and unheard. As a future physician, I will carry this empathy into my practice, advocating for patients who face barriers to care. Just as my parents’ determination lifted me, I am committed to uplifting my patients and mentoring students who face similar challenges. One of my most meaningful experiences was mentoring Michael, a 10-year-old African-American boy living in an underserved community. His neighborhood had a tree covered in teddy bears — each one representing a child lost to gang violence. Michael’s goal, like mine, was to become a physician and care for his mother. I realized that my role as his mentor went far beyond tutoring; I needed to show him that his circumstances didn’t have to define his future. I shared with Michael the same advice I’d followed throughout my own journey: “You can’t always control what happens, but you can control how you react to it.” I told Michael — and would tell others facing adversity — to embrace resilience. Challenges will come, but you have the power to respond with determination and courage. When circumstances feel overwhelming, remind yourself that persistence and self-belief can carry you through. My journey has taught me that no matter how difficult the path may seem, there is always a way forward — and you have the strength to find it.

Mathematics is more than a subject to me; it is a way of thinking that shapes my understanding of the world. My fascination with math began at an early age when I realized how numbers could provide clear answers in a world full of uncertainty. I remember sitting at the kitchen table with my mother, piecing together puzzles and working through math problems. Each solved equation felt like unlocking a new level of understanding — a feeling that sparked my lifelong curiosity. One moment that truly solidified my love for math came during a high school physics class. I was tasked with calculating the optimal angle for kicking a soccer ball to achieve maximum distance. As I scribbled equations across my notebook, I felt an undeniable thrill when my calculations matched the real-world results. It was exhilarating to see abstract formulas translate into something tangible — a perfect arc across the sky. That experience revealed that math isn't just about memorizing formulas; it's a language that describes how the world works. This fascination has carried over into my interest in medicine, where the physics of the body reveals itself in remarkable ways. Understanding fluid dynamics helps explain how blood circulates through arteries and veins, while concepts of pressure gradients and resistance are crucial for grasping how the heart efficiently pumps oxygen-rich blood to tissues. The delicate exchange of gases in the lungs follows predictable diffusion laws, and the kidneys rely on precise osmotic balances to filter waste and regulate hydration. These complex systems rely on mathematical principles that shape diagnosis and treatment strategies. Math continues to guide me as I pursue a career in medicine. Whether it's understanding cardiac output equations, calculating filtration rates in the kidneys, or analyzing ventilator settings for a critically ill patient, mathematical concepts form the foundation of medical decision-making. Embracing this connection has deepened my understanding of the body and reinforced my passion for both math and medicine. For me, mathematics represents precision, problem-solving, and purpose. By mastering these concepts, I aim to improve healthcare outcomes and contribute to meaningful change in communities that need it most.

When I think of Team USA, one athlete immediately comes to mind—LeBron James. As a three-time Olympian and two-time gold medalist, LeBron has proudly represented the United States on the global stage, leading with skill, intelligence, and an unselfish approach to the game. While he is widely recognized as one of the greatest basketball players in history, his impact goes beyond the sport. His leadership, both on and off the court, embodies the values of perseverance, excellence, and national pride that define Team USA. LeBron’s ability to elevate his team was on full display during the 2012 Olympics, where he played a pivotal role in securing gold for Team USA. In the gold medal game against Spain, with the competition tightening in the fourth quarter, LeBron delivered when it mattered most. He sealed the victory with a powerful dunk and a clutch three-pointer, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure. His all-around dominance—averaging 13.3 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game—proved that he wasn’t just a scorer, but a leader who made everyone around him better. Watching him orchestrate plays with precision and guide his teammates with confidence was a defining moment that deepened my admiration for him. Beyond his achievements on the court, what makes LeBron truly inspiring is his commitment to using his platform for positive change. His I PROMISE School in Akron, Ohio, provides free education, meals, and college scholarships for at-risk children, demonstrating his belief in the power of opportunity. During the 2020 election, he co-founded More Than a Vote, helping increase voter participation in underrepresented communities. These actions reinforce that being a great athlete isn’t just about winning medals—it’s about leaving a lasting impact. While some may argue that other Team USA athletes, such as Michael Phelps or Simone Biles, have more Olympic accolades, LeBron’s legacy extends beyond numbers. His ability to lead on the world’s biggest stage, bring home victories, and inspire future generations sets him apart. Watching him compete for Team USA has motivated me to embrace leadership in my own life—whether in academics, sports, or community service. His example reminds me that true greatness is measured not just by personal success, but by how one uplifts others. For these reasons, LeBron James is my favorite athlete to cheer for on Team USA. He represents the best of American sportsmanship—excellence, resilience, and a dedication to making a difference. His contributions to Team USA and beyond have inspired me, and I am proud to support an athlete who embodies what it truly means to wear the red, white, and blue.

The journey to becoming a physician has been challenging. As the child of immigrant parents who entered the United States legally yet struggled to obtain citizenship due to the unfortunate events following 9/11, I faced seemingly insurmountable obstacles in my pursuit of higher education. The weight of financial instability, the uncertainty of my status, and the absence of clear pathways left me feeling lost. Yet, through every trial, I relied on my faith, trusting in God’s plan and repeating the words: "You are the lamp to my feet and Your will be done." Growing up, my family’s immigration status cast a long shadow over my life. Despite my parents’ tireless work ethic and contributions to this country, the bureaucratic roadblocks made legal residency an impossible dream. Without citizenship, applying for college was daunting. I could not qualify for federal financial aid, and the scholarships available to students like me were scarce. Despite having the stats of an IVY league student, I was rejected from local schools because I was processed as an international student. Watching my peers secure their futures while I faced endless rejection was heartbreaking. I questioned why my dreams had to be burdened by circumstances beyond my control. In those moments of despair, I turned to my faith. I prayed for guidance, for strength, and most of all, for the courage to persist despite the odds. God answered in ways I did not always expect. Instead of opening doors immediately, He taught me resilience. Starting in high school, I began working to save and afford tuition, often studying late into the night after long shifts. Miraculously, I was accepted into the University of Virginia on a full-ride scholarship. I was one step closer to my dream of becoming a physician. However, even while attending school on a scholarship, I continued to work to pay for my living expenses. I learned to navigate a world where the odds were stacked against me, relying on faith as my anchor. I prayed not for an easy way out, but for the strength to endure. Whenever I felt like giving up, I reminded myself that God was leading me, even if I could not yet see the destination. Getting into medical school was similar to my experience applying to college. Despite my qualifications, many schools did not accept me due to my status; however, I was miraculously accepted to Rush Medical College. As a first-generation college and medical student, I had no roadmap, no mentors in my family to guide me through the complex world. Imposter syndrome crept in, whispering that I did not belong. But my faith reminded me that I was exactly where I was meant to be. The same God who had brought me this far would carry me through. Now, as I stand on the precipice of becoming a physician, I see how God used my struggles to shape me. My journey has instilled in me a deep sense of empathy for those who feel unseen, unheard, and trapped by circumstances beyond their control. I will carry that compassion into my medical career, advocating for patients who, like my family once did, face barriers to care and opportunity. My goal in medicine is similar to what Jesus has done for me. To break down walls that separate and turn them into bridges that bring healing. Faith has been my lamp in the darkest of times, guiding me step by step, even when the path was unclear. I know that whatever challenges lie ahead, God’s will shall be done—and I am ready to follow.

LeBron James is more than just a basketball player—he is a mastermind of the game, a leader, and an advocate for those in need. His ability to analyze and control the game through his extraordinary basketball IQ sets him apart from his peers. Beyond the court, his willingness to use his platform to uplift underserved communities and speak out on critical social issues solidifies his legacy as not just one of the greatest athletes of all time, but one of the most influential figures in sports history. LeBron's basketball IQ is nothing short of remarkable. He possesses an innate understanding of the game that allows him to anticipate plays before they unfold, making him one of the best decision-makers in the history of the NBA. Unlike many superstars who excel in scoring alone, LeBron does it all—facilitating, defending, rebounding, and leading. His ability to memorize entire playbooks, recognize defensive schemes in real-time, and adjust strategies on the fly is something rarely seen in sports. His court vision rivals that of elite point guards, and he has the unique ability to elevate his teammates by creating opportunities that others wouldn't even see. Whether he's orchestrating an offense, making a game-winning pass, or taking over in crunch time, LeBron's mind operates on a different level, allowing him to dominate for over two decades. However, LeBron's greatness extends beyond basketball. He has continuously used his influence to advocate for the underserved and underrepresented. His I PROMISE School in Akron, Ohio, provides education, mentorship, and resources for at-risk children, demonstrating his commitment to long-term change. Unlike many athletes who avoid speaking out, LeBron has taken strong stances on issues such as racial injustice, education reform, and voting rights. He has encouraged civic engagement, fought against systemic inequalities, and used his platform to empower those whose voices are often ignored. The debate over whether LeBron James is the greatest basketball player of all time will continue, as legends like Michael Jordan and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar have also left their marks on the sport. However, LeBron's unparalleled basketball IQ, versatility, and leadership make a compelling case for his status as the GOAT. More importantly, his legacy is defined not only by his championships and records but by the lives he has changed. He is the embodiment of excellence both as an athlete and as a human being, and that is why I am a devoted fan.

“Wow, Fantastic Baby.” This is a line from Bigbang’s hit song “Fantastic Baby,” which remains one of the most iconic and watched K-pop music videos of all time. K-pop has garnered tremendous popularity because of its high-quality music, captivating choreography, and trendy fashion choices. So much of what characterizes K-pop and makes it so captivating has been greatly influenced by Bigbang. Despite the song being released in 2012, “Fantastic Baby” contains the essence of what makes K-pop so popular today. Bigbang is often referred to as the “Kings of K-pop” or “The Idol’s Idol” because of its influence on the current world-famous K-pop groups today, such as BTS and Blackpink. Bigbang is an older group that debuted in 2006. At the time, it was common for K-pop groups to be considered “factory products” as they were required to go through rigorous training periods and perform as directed. Despite having gone through a rigorous and strict training period, Bigbang didn’t let previous rules, culture, and perspectives limit their creative thoughts. Instead, they let the skills they acquired through rigorous training be the avenue to express their creativity and push the boundaries of K-pop. To become pioneers in new genres of music, performance, and fashion, Bigbang had to be bold. Bold in their music, bold in their fashion, and bold in their presentations. As one of the first K-pop groups to write, compose, and produce their own music, Bigbang set the foundation for K-pop groups to be bold, explore new ideas, and set new trends. Listening to Bigbang’s music from its debut to “Still Life,” their latest release, you can experience a wide range of music genres, from slow ballads to hip-hop. Bigbang is my favorite group because as Bigbang’s music has matured and evolved over time, I have also grown and matured through various life stages. Bigbang’s songs are anthems symbolizing multiple stages of my life. I remember singing along to Bigbang’s hit songs “Lies” and “Haru Haru” while I was in elementary school, riding in the back seat of my parents’ car. Bigbang’s “Alive” album was released in 2012 while I was in middle school. This album was filled with mixed music genres, such as R&B and EDM, which marked the transition of Bigbang’s evolution in music production. Their MADE album was another masterpiece released in 2015 while I was in high school. In 2022, they released perhaps their last single, “Still Life,” while I was preparing to apply for medical school after graduating from college. Bigbang is my favorite group because they were my companion and compatriot, supporting me through each stage of my life. Bigbang has made an enormous impact not only on my life but on their fans globally. Their music, fashion, and decisions have impacted generations of people, including world-famous idols like BTS. There is a reason they are known and recognized as the “Kings of K-pop.” What makes K-pop so appealing today is greatly influenced by Bigbang's boldness in their music, dance choreography, and fashion.

Dalai Lama, a spiritual leader, was once asked, “What surprises you most about humanity?” He responded, “Man sacrifices his health to make money, then he sacrifices money to recuperate his health.” When I read this quote, I was immediately reminded of my parents. When my parents immigrated to the United States, they did not come with wealth or to build wealth. My parents came to provide me with better education and opportunities for wealth. To support me, they chose to work multiple demanding jobs. I remember hearing my father’s alarm go off at 4:45 am as he got ready for work. During the day, he worked at a dry cleaner, and at night he worked as a janitor, coming home past 10:00 pm. After years of labor-intensive work, they have not accumulated any financial wealth; instead, they have collected scars, burns, and injuries. My parents have given everything to support me to succeed despite their economic and linguistic challenges; therefore, it is with a gratitude-driven mentality that I look to give everything back to my parents and to restore the years of scars, burns, and injuries that they suffered for me - this is my definition of generational wealth. While generational wealth is generally understood to be capable of supporting one’s children and grandchildren, which I also aspire to do, my primary goal for generational wealth is to help my parents, the generation before me, for they have sacrificed their bodies and health for my success. Expanding on my definition of generational wealth, I also want to positively impact the generations of individuals from underprivileged backgrounds. While walking around a marginalized neighborhood with a student I was mentoring, I saw a tree with countless teddy bears hanging from it. I was appalled to learn that each bear symbolized the loss of a child’s life by gun violence. For my mentee, drugs, gun violence, and gangs were regular influences in his life, and all I wanted was to empower him to succeed despite his difficult background. On our last day together, I handed him my book bag filled with school materials and encouraged him to pursue his dream. It would be an honor to have the generational wealth that affects not only my parents and my children but the generations of another family. I plan to achieve all this by studying in medical school and becoming a physician. With my knowledge of medicine, I will care for my parents, helping them restore their health. In keeping them healthy, I will send my parents on many vacations they could not have had in the past twenty years, helping them enjoy their retirement and recover. Furthermore, as a physician, I will have opportunities to work in free clinics and with individuals from all walks of life. Through these patient encounters, I want to show humility by learning about their cultures and listening to their stories, identifying racial, social, and financial factors affecting their overall health. By gaining the respect of marginalized members of society, I hope to become a mentor to children and support them to achieve their versions of generational wealth.

When a potter molds clay to their heart's desire, it becomes a masterpiece; when an individual mold their life to their desires, it is the American dream. In essence, the American dream is unique to each individual as it takes shape after the originator's heart. The clay that I mold for my life is to become a physician who empowers and welcomes the most marginalized individuals through medicine and advocacy - this is my definition of the American dream. My parents immigrated to the U.S. in 2004, and as poor non-English-speaking immigrants, their lives were filled with challenges. I would hear my father's alarm go off at 4:45 AM as he got ready for work. During the day, he worked at a dry cleaner, and at night he worked as a janitor, coming home past 10:00 PM. There was one place, however, where their worries subsided: Dr. Chung's office. Understanding immigrants' obstacles, Dr. Chung took the time to listen to his patients and build patient relationships. As a kid, watching my parents find hope and calm as they spoke with Dr. Chung, I became curious about the possibilities of medicine - the potential of medicine thrilled me. Understanding that at the core of a physician was a heart to help others and a commitment to life-long learning, I sought opportunities to volunteer in underserved communities while pursuing my education. In one neighborhood I served, there was a tree with teddy bears hanging from it. I was appalled to learn that each bear symbolized the loss of a child's life by gun violence. Reflecting on these service experiences, I realized how larger system issues of social injustice can lead to health disparities in our communities. As my parents often hesitated to see a physician because of financial and accessibility issues, many families in these neighborhoods were not well connected to the healthcare system. Therefore, I want to become a physician who addresses my patients' health concerns and takes the time to recognize and care for patients' social, economic, and racial disparities. My journey to medicine, however, has not been so easy. As an undocumented and first-generation student, navigating the complex college application process was challenging. Colleges often viewed me as an international student and required me to pay international tuition, which my family could not afford. It was only by applying for scholarships and working to save since I was 16 that I was gratefully able to attend the University of Virginia. In college, I continued to work and translate for immigrant families as I pursued the pre-med track while majoring in Kinesiology. Through my challenges, I learned that through perseverance and determination, I could pave a path to pursue my goals even if it seemed near impossible. Currently, I am a Georgetown University student obtaining my master's in physiology before attending medical school in 2024. Though the odds may not be in my favor because of my citizen status, I believe I can mold my life into my American dream with enough persistence, resilience, and dedication.