Free expression is an important ideal in medicine because it invites many different outcomes and many different perspectives because of the many different identities explored. If free expression is known to be important it can help benefit many different cures and research being done because of people being able to freely express health issues and new risks and benefits of different medications and diseases being spreaded around. This is especially important in todays society because I feel as if we are being introduced to so many new diseases and viruses. Science is continuously growing as well as the human mind so free expression is very important and necessary. Individuals in the medical field can help protect and bolster free expression by advocating for a workplace culture that values open dialogue and encourages questions and feedback. They can also make sure to let patients know that they are able to freely express their medical opinions and needs and concerns because it’s important. By having this sort of respect and comfortability with their patients they can help protect their medical ideas as well.

Alzheimer’s disease is a disease that runs throughout my family. My grandfather has recently been a victim to this disease and it made a huge impact on all of my family’s lives. My dad explained it to me when he had found out his father had started experiencing this disease. You start to forget things, people, and you don’t realize it. My grandmother called and told my father that my grandfather was waiting for him to come home from soccer practice. My dad hasn’t been to soccer practice in over 20 years. We had heard he wasn’t getting better, he was starting to experience some hallucinations, muttering in his sleep and he was very sluggish. They had called and told us he experienced a pretty bad fall down the stairs and suffered a stroke due to it. He was resting in the hospital and that was when he had lived his final breaths. I am now 17 and I deal with the burden of never seeing him again. I don’t recall if he ever remembered me or not. I remember getting the call that he had passed when I was in the car with my dad. My grandmother had called, she told us to pull over. At that moment I knew what she was going to say. I don’t think my dad knew, and that is what broke me. When she had said the words, I witnessed my father cry for the first time in my life. Seeing him cry, made me cry. My dad had a whole life with his father and he hasn’t seen him in six years. Now he’ll never see him again. It was hard to hear about his death because I had only met him twice, when I was a baby and when I was 11. He was always so sweet to me and my family. What hurt the most was knowing that we couldn’t attend the funeral. It was held in Jamaica, we couldn’t afford a flight there. Instead, we watched the funeral from home. It was special, homey and I saw all of my relatives on the stream. In Jamaica, you are to grieve with alcohol and celebration. To celebrate the person moving on from life to death. My father had explained this to me and I watched him grieve silently. I know Alzheimer’s disease runs in my family, but it’s so hard to imagine a world where I won’t remember my parents or my sister. To have a whole chunk of your life taken out of your memory frame has got to be one of the most cruel things to ever experience. I fear that my father won’t remember me when he’s older and I’ll have to go through what he has. I fear I won’t remember my life and all the good that has come from it. I’ve learned from Alzheimer’s disease, to appreciate what you have in your life now. To try and remember everything that is important before it is gone.

My name is Tamarah Hall and I am a senior in high school. My goal in life is to become a pediatrician so I can help make health care a vital priority in children’s lives. Children need attention when it comes to their health, as their bodies are small and fragile. I want to help make sure any child, no matter what race or gender can receive equal health care and attention. That’s a big thing in today’s society. People are being neglected healthcare due to their race and it is extremely unfair. I want to work on changing that because if we can do that to adults, in need of healthcare, imagine what we could do to children who need healthcare more than ever. To complete these goals I must attend a school that can help me learn more about my field and give me the proper education I need. I have gotten accepted to many schools, but Penn State was one school that stood out to me the most. Their tuition is extremely expensive and they aren’t necessarily generous when it comes to scholarships and financial aid. They have an amazing medical program for me to help me accomplish my goals. Not only is Penn State such a prestigious school, but it could help me have a head start in my Pre-Med track. This is an amazing opportunity that I don’t want to let go to waste, but their tuition is so far out of my budget. I worked so hard in high school to get accepted to this university. I've taken out a few loans but as you probably already know, medical and graduate school are not cheap. I would be in extreme debt 8-10 years from now which is what I hope to avoid. When I see myself in the future, I see a woman that has helped impact the world in generous ways that anyone could imagine. I’ve always been so passionate about being a pediatrician and I want to be one of the best. I’ve grown up around children almost all my life and had to take care of children, whether it’s my sister or my cousins, and I have grown to love this profession. I believe I deserve this scholarship because I have worked so hard to get to the next step in my goal, I want to change the world, and I hope you can help me do that.

My name is Tamarah Hall and I am a senior in high school. My goal in life is to become a pediatrician so I can help make health care a vital priority in children’s lives. To complete my goal I have majored in Biology/Pre-Med. I’ve always enjoyed science as it is such an interesting subject to learn. You can make several hypotheses to get to the bottom of any situation. You can make several experiments to conduct a conclusion. I majored in biology to do all of this and more. I want to learn more about the human body, specifically children’s bodies. Children need attention when it comes to their health, as their bodies are small and fragile. I want to help make sure any child, no matter what race or gender can receive equal health care and attention. That’s a big thing in today’s society. People are being neglected healthcare due to their race and it is extremely unfair. I want to work on changing that because if we can do that to adults, in need of healthcare, imagine what we could do to children who need healthcare more than ever. To complete these goals I must attend a school that can help me learn more about my field and give me the proper education I need. I have gotten accepted to many schools, but Penn State was one school that stood out to me the most. Their tuition is extremely expensive and they aren’t necessarily generous when it comes to scholarships and financial aid. They have an amazing medical program for me to help me accomplish my goals. Not only is Penn State such a prestigious school, but it could help me have a head start in my Pre-Med track. This is an amazing opportunity that I don’t want to let go to waste, but their tuition is so far out of my budget. I worked so hard in high school to get accepted to this school so I can accomplish my goals. As you might already know, Medical school and graduate school are not cheap, I don’t want to be in debt in undergraduate school when I have more years of school ahead of me. When I see myself in the future, I see a woman that has helped impact the world in generous ways that anyone could imagine. I’ve always been so passionate about being a pediatrician and I want to be one of the best. I believe I deserve this scholarship because I have worked so hard to get to the next step in my goal and I do have a passion for what I want to do. I want to change the world, I hope you can help me do that.

The dream version of my future self is happy, healthy and living in a world filled with peace, health, and equality.

My name is Tamarah Hall. Ever since I was younger, I’ve always loved caring for others and making them happy. When I was 8 years old I started to babysit my little sister so my parents could work to provide for us as a family. We lived in a homeless shelter at the time and needed the money. I provided proper meals, and proper hygiene for her all while trying to do well in school. This was what sparked my ambition to become a doctor, specifically a pediatrician. As I gradually grew older, I began babysitting other children and watching over them as well. It became a hobby for me because I genuinely liked it. I ended up learning more about the health field, and I realized, this is what I can see myself doing. I was always usually healthy. I played basketball in school because I genuinely liked it. It kept me fit and happy. My parents made us only drink water because they could not afford juice and other flavored beverages. I always loved eating vegetables as a kid as long as they were seasoned properly. Growing up with a Jamaican father, seasoned food was never a problem. COVID played a huge role in my life because it changed me a lot. Having to quarantine, limited me to a few options. Healthier food became even more expensive, and junk food became cheaper. I usually just watched plenty of shows and movies while eating chips, popcorn, candy, etc; At the time, I used those as comfort foods to get through this immense impact. I had little interaction with people and I transferred to a new school so I knew nobody. Two years later, I went to school and met all these new people that I never really got to meet in remote learning. I remember the day in gym class when we measured our weight. I didn't think anything of it and when I walked onto the weight scale and watched how the numbers drastically increased, I felt a knot in my stomach form. The numbers fell out of his mouth, and when I got home I cried myself to sleep. I had gained weight, too much weight. I tried to stop eating for a while. It didn't help much. I couldn't join the basketball team because of COVID, so all I could do was make small changes. I realized crying about it wouldn't change anything. I looked up workout videos on YouTube and worked out at home. My parents were always stuck at work and didn't want me to go to the gym by myself. I did curl-ups, planks, high knees, etc; and repeated it every single day. I made small changes in my lifestyle, I took the stairs instead of the elevator and started walking home from school, walked to pick my sister up from school, and ate small portions of food instead of nothing at all. I realized you could truly eat anything you want as long as you eat it in a small healthier portion. This lesson changed my life in so many ways. I remember going back to school after the summer and many people telling me I looked much healthier or that I’d lost a lot of weight and I look happier. I was happier and healthier and it was all thanks to my changes.

My name is Tamarah Hall and I am a senior in high school. My goal in life is to become a pediatrician so I can help make health care a vital priority in children’s lives. Children need attention when it comes to their health, as their bodies are small and fragile. I want to help make sure any child, no matter what race or gender can receive equal health care and attention. That’s a big thing in today’s society. People are being neglected healthcare due to their race and it is extremely unfair. I want to work on changing that because if we can do that to adults, in need of healthcare, imagine what we could do to children who need healthcare more than ever. To complete these goals I must attend a school that can help me learn more about my field and give me the proper education I need. I have gotten accepted to many schools, but Penn State was one school that stood out to me the most. Their tuition is extremely expensive and they aren’t necessarily generous when it comes to scholarships and financial aid. They have an amazing medical program for me to help me accomplish my goals. Not only is Penn State such a prestigious school, but it could help me have a head start in my Pre-Med track. This is an amazing opportunity that I don’t want to let go to waste, but their tuition is so far out of my budget. I worked so hard in high school to get accepted to this school, and I might be stuck going to a school where I am unhappy and not ahead. When I see myself in the future, I see a woman that has helped impact the world in generous ways that anyone could imagine. I’ve always been so passionate about being a pediatrician and I want to be one of the best. I’ve grown up around children almost all my life and had to take care of children, whether it’s my sister or my cousins, and I have grown to love this profession. I’ve donated plenty of clothes to homeless shelters in my community and the salvation army. I’ve worked with catholic charities and local food pantries to help provide those in need with food and necessities. I believe I deserve this scholarship because I have worked so hard to get to the next step in my goal but I won’t be able to go to my dream school without this scholarship or more. I want to change the world, I hope you can help me do that.

My name is Tamarah Hall and I am a senior in high school. My goal in life is to become a pediatrician so I can help make health care a vital priority in children’s lives. Children need attention when it comes to their health, as their bodies are small and fragile. I want to help make sure any child, no matter what race or gender can receive equal health care and attention. That’s a big thing in today’s society. People are being neglected healthcare due to their race and it is extremely unfair. I want to work on changing that because if we can do that to adults, in need of healthcare, imagine what we could do to children who need healthcare more than ever. To complete these goals I must attend a school that can help me learn more about my field and give me the proper education I need. I have gotten accepted to many schools, but Penn State was one school that stood out to me the most. Their tuition is extremely expensive and they aren’t necessarily generous when it comes to scholarships and financial aid. They have an amazing medical program for me to help me accomplish my goals. Not only is Penn State such a prestigious school, but it could help me have a head start in my Pre-Med track. This is an amazing opportunity that I don’t want to let go to waste, but their tuition is so far out of my budget. I worked so hard in high school to get accepted to this school, and I might be stuck going to a school where I am unhappy and not ahead. When I see myself in the future, I see a woman that has helped impact the world in generous ways that anyone could imagine. I’ve always been so passionate about being a pediatrician and I want to be one of the best. I’ve grown up around children almost all my life and had to take care of children, whether it’s my sister or my cousins, and I have grown to love this profession. I believe I deserve this scholarship because I have worked so hard to get to the next step in my goal but I won’t be able to go to my dream school without this scholarship or more. I want to change the world, I hope you can help me do that.

I’ve grown up listening to all different types of music. I remember going to bed one night and turning on my radio that someone had donated to me, and listening to the newer songs of that year. I remember hearing “blank space” and I was immediately hooked on to the song. The way Taylor Swift had that nice demeanor throughout almost the whole song, even with the words she was saying was incredible to me. She was literally talking about how “boys only want torture” and I did not even know what love felt like at the time but I sort of felt her pain. Maybe it was also the fact that I felt like lots of women could relate to that song. She got a lot of hate for just being open to dating, and never making the relationships last, but she was able to make songs out of it to cope with how the media portrays her. I admire her for being able to do that because at the time, I wouldn’t have been able to do that. Being a Swiftie in that era was extremely hard, as crazy as it sounds. I used to get made fun of for listening to her music, but I didn’t care. Her music was/is so creative and she is really great at incorporating amazing lyrics with a great beat. I still know nothing about love but when I listen to her music, I feel like I know everything about love. I feel like i’m in her shoes. I remember pretending I was at her concerts at night, screaming the lyrics whenever my parents weren’t home. Taylor Swift is incredibly talented and she gets hate for it but she knows how to ignore the hate and move on. That brings me to my second favorite song, “Shake it Off.” “Shake it Off” is just her once again flaunting the media with their own words, and telling them she doesn’t care. She’s motivated me to do the same. Of course, I’m not famous and I haven’t gone to half of the things she has, but growing up and being bullied, listening to Taylor Swift was my way out. It made me feel powerful whenever any of her songs came on. I felt like I could do anything if I put my mind to it. Every time one of her songs come on now, I just reminisce of the great and bad memories I’ve made during the time that they were released. Seeing her now, happy and getting the recognition she deserves makes me happy. I can’t wait to tell my children about one of the greatest artists of all time, Taylor Swift.

My name is Tamarah Hall and I am a senior in high school. My goal in life is to become a pediatrician so I can help make health care a vital priority in children’s lives. Children need attention when it comes to their health, as their bodies are small and fragile. I want to help make sure any child, no matter what race or gender can receive equal health care and attention. That’s a big thing in today’s society. People are being neglected healthcare due to their race and it is extremely unfair. I want to work on changing that because if we can do that to adults, in need of healthcare, imagine what we could do to children who need healthcare more than ever. To complete these goals I must attend a school that can help me learn more about my field and give me the proper education I need. I have gotten accepted to many schools, but Penn State was one school that stood out to me the most. Their tuition is extremely expensive and they aren’t necessarily generous when it comes to scholarships and financial aid. They have an amazing medical program for me to help me accomplish my goals. Not only is Penn State such a prestigious school, but it could help me have a head start in my Pre-Med track. This is an amazing opportunity that I don’t want to let go to waste, but their tuition is so far out of my budget. I worked so hard in high school to get accepted to this school, and I might be stuck going to a school where I am unhappy and not ahead. When I see myself in the future, I see a woman that has helped impact the world in generous ways that anyone could imagine. I’ve always been so passionate about being a pediatrician and I want to be one of the best. I’ve grown up around children almost all my life and had to take care of children, whether it’s my sister or my cousins, and I have grown to love this profession. When I close my eyes I dream of a world where there is equality and peace. A world where everyone can be healthy and accepted for who they are. I believe I deserve this scholarship because I have worked so hard to get to the next step in my goal but I won’t be able to go to my dream school without this scholarship or more. I want to change the world, I hope you can help me do that.

My name is Tamarah Hall and I am a senior in high school. My goal in life is to become a pediatrician so I can help make health care a vital priority in children’s lives. Children need attention when it comes to their health, as their bodies are small and fragile. I want to help make sure any child, no matter what race or gender can receive equal health care and attention. That’s a big thing in today’s society. People are being neglected healthcare due to their race and it is extremely unfair. I want to work on changing that because if we can do that to adults, in need of healthcare, imagine what we could do to children who need healthcare more than ever. To complete these goals I must attend a school that can help me learn more about my field and give me the proper education I need. I have gotten accepted to many schools, but Penn State was one school that stood out to me the most. Their tuition is extremely expensive and they aren’t necessarily generous when it comes to scholarships and financial aid. They have an amazing medical program for me to help me accomplish my goals. Not only is Penn State such a prestigious school, but it could help me have a head start in my Pre-Med track. This is an amazing opportunity that I don’t want to let go to waste, but their tuition is so far out of my budget. I worked so hard in high school to get accepted to this school, and I might be stuck going to a school where I am unhappy and not ahead. I’ve participated and volunteered with numerous charities and shelters. I’ve helped can goods for people who are in hunger, I’ve donated countless amounts of clothes to those who can’t afford clothes, because I know what it was like to be in their shoes. I’ve grown up moving from shelter to shelter with nothing. So when I look around my community and see someone in need, I help. I think we need more of that community love in our lives nowadays. When I see myself in the future, I see a woman that has helped impact the world in generous ways that anyone could imagine. I’ve always been so passionate about being a pediatrician and I want to be one of the best. I’ve grown up around children almost all my life and had to take care of children, whether it’s my sister or my cousins, and I have grown to love this profession. I believe I deserve this scholarship because I have worked so hard to get to the next step in my goal but I won’t be able to go to my dream school without this scholarship or more. I want to change the world, I hope you can help me do that.

My name is Tamarah Hall and I am a senior in high school. My goal in life is to become a pediatrician so I can help make health care a vital priority in children’s lives. Children need attention when it comes to their health, as their bodies are small and fragile. I want to help make sure any child, no matter what race or gender can receive equal health care and attention. That’s a big thing in today’s society. People are being neglected healthcare due to their race and it is extremely unfair. I want to work on changing that because if we can do that to adults, in need of healthcare, imagine what we could do to children who need healthcare more than ever. To complete these goals I must attend a school that can help me learn more about my field and give me the proper education I need. I have gotten accepted to many schools, but Penn State was one school that stood out to me the most. Their tuition is extremely expensive and they aren’t necessarily generous when it comes to scholarships and financial aid. They have an amazing medical program for me to help me accomplish my goals. Not only is Penn State such a prestigious school, but it could help me have a head start in my Pre-Med track. This is an amazing opportunity that I don’t want to let go to waste, but their tuition is so far out of my budget. I worked so hard in high school to get accepted to this school, and I might be stuck going to a school where I am unhappy and not ahead. When I see myself in the future, I see a woman that has helped impact the world in generous ways that anyone could imagine. I’ve always been so passionate about being a pediatrician and I want to be one of the best. I’ve grown up around children almost all my life and had to take care of children, whether it’s my sister or my cousins, and I have grown to love this profession. I believe I deserve this scholarship because I have worked so hard to get to the next step in my goal but I won’t be able to go to my dream school without this scholarship or more. I want to change the world, I hope you can help me do that.

My name is Tamarah Hall and I am a senior in high school. My goal in life is to become a pediatrician so I can help make health care a vital priority in children’s lives. Children need attention when it comes to their health, as their bodies are small and fragile. I want to help make sure any child, no matter what race or gender can receive equal health care and attention. That’s a big thing in today’s society. People are being neglected healthcare due to their race and it is extremely unfair. I want to work on changing that because if we can do that to adults, in need of healthcare, imagine what we could do to children who need healthcare more than ever. To complete these goals I must attend a school that can help me learn more about my field and give me the proper education I need. I have gotten accepted to many schools, but Penn State was one school that stood out to me the most. Their tuition is extremely expensive and they aren’t necessarily generous when it comes to scholarships and financial aid. They have an amazing medical program for me to help me accomplish my goals. Not only is Penn State such a prestigious school, but it could help me have a head start in my Pre-Med track. This is an amazing opportunity that I don’t want to let go to waste, but their tuition is so far out of my budget. I worked so hard in high school to get accepted to this school, and I might be stuck going to a school where I am unhappy and not ahead. I’ve worked with numerous charities, and shelters to try and help out my community. I once lived in many homeless shelters so I understand what it is like. I have canned multiple goods for those in need, who are hungry and I have provided them with clothes I have donated. When I see myself in the future, I see a woman that has helped impact the world in generous ways that anyone could imagine. I’ve always been so passionate about being a pediatrician and I want to be one of the best. I’ve grown up around children almost all my life and had to take care of children, whether it’s my sister or my cousins, and I have grown to love this profession. I believe I deserve this scholarship because I have worked so hard to get to the next step in my goal but I won’t be able to go to my dream school without this scholarship or more. I want to change the world, I hope you can help me do that.

My name is Tamarah Hall and I am a senior in high school. My goal in life is to become a pediatrician so I can help make health care a vital priority in children’s lives. Children need attention when it comes to their health, as their bodies are small and fragile. I want to help make sure any child, no matter what race or gender can receive equal health care and attention. That’s a big thing in today’s society. People are being neglected healthcare due to their race and it is extremely unfair. I want to work on changing that because if we can do that to adults, in need of healthcare, imagine what we could do to children who need healthcare more than ever. To complete these goals I must attend a school that can help me learn more about my field and give me the proper education I need. I have gotten accepted to many schools, but Penn State was one school that stood out to me the most. Their tuition is extremely expensive and they aren’t necessarily generous when it comes to scholarships and financial aid. They have an amazing medical program for me to help me accomplish my goals. Not only is Penn State such a prestigious school, but it could help me have a head start in my Pre-Med track. This is an amazing opportunity that I don’t want to let go to waste, but their tuition is so far out of my budget. I worked so hard in high school to get accepted to this school, and I might be stuck going to a school where I am unhappy and not ahead. When I see myself in the future, I see a woman that has helped impact the world in generous ways that anyone could imagine. I’ve always been so passionate about being a pediatrician and I want to be one of the best. I’ve grown up around children almost all my life and had to take care of children, whether it’s my sister or my cousins, and I have grown to love this profession. I believe I deserve this scholarship because I have worked so hard to get to the next step in my goal but I won’t be able to go to my dream school without this scholarship or more. I want to change the world, I hope you can help me do that.

COVID has taken a huge toll on everyone’s lives. It has been very impactful in many ways, whether it’s socially, mentally, or even physically. I’ve been impacted by COVID socially and physically. Being restricted from friends, and not being able to go outside and get the Vitamin D I need from the sun has changed my body and mind. When the COVID restrictions had lifted, I felt like a different person. During the pandemic, I binge-watched lots of TV shows and movies while eating, and I was never active. I didn’t have the luxury of working out at home and being active and all of the food I was just piling on, grew on me. I had gained lots of weight, and with the weight came sadness and a sort of depression. So when the pandemic had calmed down, and I was able to go to school again, I didn’t know how to communicate with others and I didn’t feel comfortable in my skin. My mother bought weights for me to use with my arms, and I started walking up and down the stairs at my building, and school. There were slow changes that started to happen, but nothing big. It wasn’t until I joined the basketball team this year that I started to notice more gradual changes. I still ate the things I loved, just in smaller proportions and that felt so much better than just eating bigger portions. I tried eating salads too, but not the plain ones that you hear about often. I added healthy things I enjoyed in my salads. Avocados, tuna, strawberries, cranberries, etc; and it tasted delicious. Not only did it create a mindset in my mind that I was eating healthy, but my body never felt better after eating what I enjoyed the most, in a healthier way. My friends started noticing the gradual changes in my body and they even told me that I looked much happier. I began running more, and becoming more physical because I was playing the sport I loved again. I was being active, and happy. There were times where I told myself, the problem was because I was eating. You don’t have to stop eating completely or go to the gym every single day. It starts with small changes in your lifestyle, like walking up the stairs instead of taking the elevator, or drinking water instead of drinking that juice you drink every single day. If you can make small changes like that in your life, you can start to notice big changes in a few months. You can truly be happy with yourself while making small changes. I came from being overweight and uncomfortable in my skin to becoming happy and confident that I can do anything if I put my mind to it. I feel healthier and happier than ever.

COVID has taken a huge toll on everyone’s lives. It has been very impactful in many ways, whether it’s socially, mentally, or even physically. I’ve been impacted by COVID socially and physically. Being restricted from friends, and not being able to go outside and get the Vitamin D I need from the sun has changed my body and mind. When the COVID restrictions had lifted, I felt like a different person. During the pandemic, I binge-watched lots of TV shows and movies while eating, and I was never active. I didn’t have the luxury of working out at home and being active and all of the food I was just piling on, grew on me. I had gained lots of weight, and with the weight came sadness and a sort of depression. So when the pandemic had calmed down, and I was able to go to school again, I didn’t know how to communicate with others and I didn’t feel comfortable in my skin. My mother bought weights for me to use with my arms, and I started walking up and down the stairs at my building, and school. There were slow changes that started to happen, but nothing big. It wasn’t until I joined the basketball team this year that I started to notice more gradual changes. I still ate the things I loved, just in smaller proportions and that felt so much better than just eating bigger portions. My friends started noticing and they even told me that I looked much happier. I began running more, and becoming more physical because I was playing the sport I loved again. I was being active, and happy. Some people tend to think that working out can be stressful and too much work, but it isn’t if you are doing something you love. You don’t have to stop eating completely or go to the gym every single day. It starts with small changes in your lifestyle, like walking up the stairs instead of taking the elevator, or drinking water instead of drinking that juice you drink every single day. If you can make small changes like that in your life, you can start to notice big changes in a few months. I came from being overweight and uncomfortable in my skin to become happy and confident that I can do anything if I put my mind to it. I feel healthier than ever.

My biggest role model is my mother. Growing up, my mother was taught that education is not the most important thing in life, working is. Her parents forced her to drop out of high school to work and try to help pay the bills. Her father was illiterate and so were her sisters. She had the motive to be better and taught herself how to read. Fast forward to 2005, I was born and she knew exactly what she wanted from me. She wanted me to be and do better than she has ever done. As soon as I was born, she taught me how to read, write, speak, and all of the basic learning needs for a child. By the time I was in first grade, I was ahead of everyone, and when I was in third grade, I was reading level Z while everyone was stuck on M. She always strived for me to be great, no matter the financial struggles we were placed with. Moving from shelter to shelter many times at a young age would usually take a toll on a child, but she blinded me from that reality and told me to focus on my education because education is the most important part thing in the world. I remember her telling me that without an education, you cannot get anywhere in life. As I grew older I realized she was correct. You look at the most successful people in life and what do all those people have in common? An education. Maybe a few didn’t have an education but more than 95% do and that’s what matters. She beat that into my head repeatedly, and those are the words that motivate me every day. Even now, she tells me I’m so close but I’m not there yet. I have a long way to go, and I should not lose my path. She’s made me strive for better than what I have right now. Though she’s tried her hardest to shelter me from my reality, I’ve grown up and I realize it now. I realize the struggles and I realize everything she’s done for me, even throughout everything she has been through she was able to care for me. She was able to make sure I had a great education, a great childhood, and motivation. She has not only been a great mother, but a great role model for me, and I thank her everyday for it.

My family is very broad. They come from many different areas of the world. My father is an immigrant from Jamaica. Every now and then he tells me stories about his life there and how different it is from here now. He tells me about the lack of opportunities in other countries compared to America and how lucky I am to be exposed to these opportunities he could never have. He came here at the age of 15 by himself. At the age of 15, my father wouldn’t even let me leave the house unless it was for school. He had left his family behind and all of his childhood memories in Jamaica to come to a country where he felt he could have better opportunities. I couldn’t imagine doing that, and I am amazed everyday by the stories he tells me. In Jamaica the school system is different, he graduated from high-school at a young age and started college earlier than people usually start. I could really see and understand the hunger my father had to succeed at even a young age. All he’s ever wanted was a life without struggle and he left everything behind to try and get that. Unfortunately, with him being an immigrant, it limits him to things that me, a citizen, would be able to do. He can’t live to his full potential so he tries to live through me and hopes that I can be better than he could. This has impacted me on my academic journey because seeing how my father has come a long way to get to where he is now has made me hungry for more. I want to do better, I hope you can help me do that.

I remember the sound of the ball bouncing on the floor. The sound had stopped and the ball slowly rolled over to me. As I bent over to pick it up, the boys ran over to ask me to pass the ball to them. “I want to play.” The four words came out of my mouth and I could hear the snickering and laughter from them. “You’re a girl. You can’t play.” Those words replayed over and over in my head, even now. When I had gotten home that day I watched countless games on my little box TV. I grew to love The Golden State Warriors and Stephen Curry. With that came my love for the sport. I admired Stephen and how he plays almost every single night to his fullest. He brings smiles and cheers to the crowd's faces as he plays the sport he loves. Growing up, I had always been tall and people always told me I should play volleyball or basketball. I decided to try basketball. I had made the team, became a starter, and accomplished playoff status. I did all of this in the sixth grade. We did it again, and again, and when I was an eighth grader we made it to the finals. Although we didn’t win, it felt great proving those boys wrong. I came back to school the next day feeling a sense of comfort, and I understood from that day on, that basketball would be a huge part of my life. Moving on to high school, I tried out for the varsity team and became a starter. It was different from the middle school games I had played in because the gym was bigger and the crowds were too. I remember walking in the hallways after games and having people yell my number out and say amazing things to me. The season had finished and we made it to the playoffs again, we lost unfortunately and that was the end. COVID hit, I transferred schools and I was separated from the sport I loved the most. I was stuck inside all day, unmotivated and unmoved. I tried watching basketball highlights to spark something but it wasn’t the same. A year later came, I found myself in a new school with new people. I couldn’t play basketball for the team due to COVID restrictions, but I was able to play in gym class. It felt weird, it felt like being used to doing something almost every day to just not doing it as much as you used to. I had watched someone miss a shot and their basketball rolled over to me, as I bent over to pick it up they had said, “Do you play?”. We played a game, a few classmates gathered around to watch and people boasted on and on about how I could change the fate of the girl's team at our school. The boys loved talking bad about them and saying they would never make it far. They had a pretty bad record that year only winning 3 games and losing the rest. I had decided to join the next year and they were right, I made a big impact. We were 8-8 and we made playoffs. We lost, unfortunately, but what matters is we made it. I like to think that I somewhat gave those girls some hope. So, as I sit down to write this while Stephen Curry is playing on my TV behind me, I realize that anyone can play a sport, we just need hope.

I’ve never really LIVED in New York. I’ve survived New York. Moving from place to place, borough to borough, shelter to shelter almost all my life because my family did not have enough money. My parents tried their hardest to blind me from our reality. I never once thought that our situation was as bad as it was. I’ve always been the new kid. Everyone already knew each other, and I was just there. No one liked me at all. In third grade, I went to a new school near the shelter, the fourth shelter, and I was only eight years old.) I focused on my studies, and I tried to make friends, but the kids would pick on me because of my living situation. I remember my father picking me up from school and walking me to the shelter we lived in, and the kids from my class followed. They mockingly said, “Hi, Tamarah” they acted like they were my friend. I was confused at the time because these were the same kids that picked on me in class. Then laughing at me the next day made me feel horrible about myself. I was young and didn’t understand why kids were making fun of where I lived. Every day my father asked how my day at school went, and I always lied and said it was fine. I didn’t want him to worry, and he didn’t until my grades started dropping. I was unmotivated to do better in school, and this carried on, for a while. Again, moving to different shelters and meeting new people I never got to see again was exhausting, and this affected me as a person. Every person I met in my mind was temporary. It was only recently that I finally could live somewhere permanently and understand what the word permanent truly meant. That dry-erase marker had finally become permanent, even if it still was not in good condition. I went from living in a shelter to living in the New York City Housing projects. Something I will always be incredibly grateful for. My grades have improved drastically, and I met people that have positively influenced me. Im motivated to pursue higher education. Multiple colleges and universities have sent me acceptance letters. Without the help of a scholarship, I will not be able to attend, making my future uncertain. To answer your question: how will this scholarship help me pursue my future career goals? This scholarship with others is my only chance of being able to attend the college of my dreams. To have the opportunity to go to a college where I can feel welcome, safe, and happy. That will not only educate me but leave a permanent imprint on me. I want to work on becoming a pediatrician to help make the world a better place. Surviving NYC was a challenge I endured. I think I’m ready for whatever is next. Hopefully, with your help.

My name is Tamarah, my friends call me T. I am of Jamaican descent. I was raised in NYC by my mother and immigrant father. I’m currently a senior in high school. I’m applying to colleges where I can major in biology, biomedical sciences, or a pre-med program. I love playing basketball, I was able to participate in my freshman year and now as a senior, but due to covid, I missed two years of my favorite sport. However, I was able to volunteer at my local food bank and with Catholic Charities. At my local food bank I was able to help bag different vegetables and fruits, carry them to shelters, where I then helped hand them out to those in need. I also donate clothes to the Salvation Army or my local homeless shelter for those in need. I used to live in a homeless shelter so I am aware of the struggle it is, I wished me and my family had more support and help when going through that rough time. Since I was able to experience the hardships of having to live in a homeless shelter where the rooms weren’t stable enough, they were infested with roaches and rats, and so much more, I am able to feel empathy for others especially since I’ve been in their shoes. As an aspiring pediatrician and surgeon, it is my dream to be able to help children. Despite my family’s financial difficulties, I’ve come from a home that has taught me the value of a helping hand. Which is what I would like to be for numerous families. Many families all around the world suffer with poverty and they struggle with finances just like mine did. People tend to look the other way and only focus on themselves but I want to be different. I want to help. I think, no matter how much money you have you should be able to get the right healthcare you need and deserve. We are all human at the end of the day and we all go through different illnesses and weaknesses in our bodies. We all need the same type of healthcare and attention we deserve. I’ve had this aspiration to be a doctor or pediatrician since I was a kid, playing doctor with my dolls as I watched Doc Mcstuffins. I’m hoping to have a career where I can not only give back but, change the world because children are our future. I am determined to make it a reality, and I know I can with your help.

My name is Tamarah, my friends call me T. I am of Jamaican descent. I was raised in NYC by my mother and immigrant father. I’m currently a senior in high school. I’m applying to colleges where I can major in biology, biomedical sciences, or a pre-med program. I love playing basketball, I was able to participate in my freshman year and now as a senior, but due to covid, I missed two years of my favorite sport. However, I was able to volunteer at my local food bank and with Catholic Charities. At my local food bank I was able to help bag different vegetables and fruits, carry them to shelters, where I then helped hand them out to those in need. I also donate clothes to the Salvation Army or my local homeless shelter for those in need. I used to live in a homeless shelter so I am aware of the struggle it is, I wished me and my family had more support and help when going through that rough time. Since I was able to experience the hardships of having to live in a homeless shelter where the rooms weren’t stable enough, they were infested with roaches and rats, and so much more, I am able to feel empathy for others especially since I’ve been in their shoes. As an aspiring pediatrician and surgeon, it is my dream to be able to help children. Despite my family’s financial difficulties, I’ve come from a home that has taught me the value of a helping hand. Which is what I would like to be for numerous families. Many families all around the world suffer with poverty and they struggle with finances just like mine did. People tend to look the other way and only focus on themselves but I want to be different. I want to help. I think, no matter how much money you have you should be able to get the right healthcare you need and deserve. We are all human at the end of the day and we all go through different illnesses and weaknesses in our bodies. We all need the same type of healthcare and attention we deserve. I’ve had this aspiration to be a doctor or pediatrician since I was a kid, playing doctor with my dolls as I watched Doc Mcstuffins. I’m hoping to have a career where I can not only give back but, change the world because children are our future. I am determined to make it a reality, and I know I can with your help.

My name is Tamarah, my friends call me T. I am of Jamaican descent. I was raised in NYC by my mother and immigrant father. I’m currently a senior in high school. I’m applying to colleges where I can major in biology, biomedical sciences, or a pre-med program. I love playing basketball, I was able to participate in my freshman year and now as a senior, but due to covid, I missed two years of my favorite sport. However, I was able to volunteer at my local food bank and with Catholic Charities. At my local food bank I was able to help bag different vegetables and fruits, carry them to shelters, where I then helped hand them out to those in need. I also donate clothes to the Salvation Army or my local homeless shelter for those in need. I used to live in a homeless shelter so I am aware of the struggle it is, I wished me and my family had more support and help when going through that rough time. Since I was able to experience the hardships of having to live in a homeless shelter where the rooms weren’t stable enough, they were infested with roaches and rats, and so much more, I am able to feel empathy for others especially since I’ve been in their shoes. As an aspiring pediatrician and surgeon, it is my dream to be able to help children. Despite my family’s financial difficulties, I’ve come from a home that has taught me the value of a helping hand. Which is what I would like to be for numerous families. Many families all around the world suffer with poverty and they struggle with finances just like mine did. People tend to look the other way and only focus on themselves but I want to be different. I want to help. I think, no matter how much money you have you should be able to get the right healthcare you need and deserve. We are all human at the end of the day and we all go through different illnesses and weaknesses in our bodies. We all need the same type of healthcare and attention we deserve. I’ve had this aspiration to be a doctor or pediatrician since I was a kid, playing doctor with my dolls as I watched Doc Mcstuffins. I’m hoping to have a career where I can not only give back but, change the world because children are our future. I am determined to make it a reality, and I know I can with your help.

My name is Tamarah, my friends call me T. I am of Jamaican descent. I was raised in NYC by my mother and immigrant father. I’m currently a senior in high school. I’m applying to colleges where I can major in biology, biomedical sciences, or a pre-med program. I love playing basketball, I was able to participate in my freshman year and now as a senior, but due to covid, I missed two years of my favorite sport. However, I was able to volunteer at my local food bank and with Catholic Charities. At my local food bank I was able to help bag different vegetables and fruits, carry them to shelters, where I then helped hand them out to those in need. I also donate clothes to the Salvation Army or my local homeless shelter for those in need. I used to live in a homeless shelter so I am aware of the struggle it is, I wished me and my family had more support and help when going through that rough time. Since I was able to experience the hardships of having to live in a homeless shelter where the rooms weren’t stable enough, they were infested with roaches and rats, and so much more, I am able to feel empathy for others especially since I’ve been in their shoes. As an aspiring pediatrician and surgeon, it is my dream to be able to help children. Despite my family’s financial difficulties, I’ve come from a home that has taught me the value of a helping hand. Which is what I would like to be for numerous families. Many families all around the world suffer with poverty and they struggle with finances just like mine did. People tend to look the other way and only focus on themselves but I want to be different. I want to help. I think, no matter how much money you have you should be able to get the right healthcare you need and deserve. We are all human at the end of the day and we all go through different illnesses and weaknesses in our bodies. We all need the same type of healthcare and attention we deserve. I’ve had this aspiration to be a doctor or pediatrician since I was a kid, playing doctor with my dolls as I watched Doc Mcstuffins. I’m hoping to have a career where I can not only give back but, change the world because children are our future. I am determined to make it a reality, and I know I can with your help.

My name is Tamarah, my friends call me T. I am of Jamaican descent. I was raised in NYC by my mother and immigrant father. I’m currently a senior in high school. I’m applying to colleges where I can major in biology, biomedical sciences, or a pre-med program. I love playing basketball, I was able to participate in my freshman year and now as a senior, but due to covid, I missed two years of my favorite sport. However, I was able to volunteer at my local food bank and with Catholic Charities. At my local food bank I was able to help bag different vegetables and fruits, carry them to shelters, where I then helped hand them out to those in need. I also donate clothes to the Salvation Army or my local homeless shelter for those in need. I used to live in a homeless shelter so I am aware of the struggle it is, I wished me and my family had more support and help when going through that rough time. Since I was able to experience the hardships of having to live in a homeless shelter where the rooms weren’t stable enough, they were infested with roaches and rats, and so much more, I am able to feel empathy for others especially since I’ve been in their shoes. As an aspiring pediatrician and surgeon, it is my dream to be able to help children. Despite my family’s financial difficulties, I’ve come from a home that has taught me the value of a helping hand. Which is what I would like to be for numerous families. Many families all around the world suffer with poverty and they struggle with finances just like mine did. People tend to look the other way and only focus on themselves but I want to be different. I want to help. I think, no matter how much money you have you should be able to get the right healthcare you need and deserve. We are all human at the end of the day and we all go through different illnesses and weaknesses in our bodies. We all need the same type of healthcare and attention we deserve. I’ve had this aspiration to be a doctor or pediatrician since I was a kid, playing doctor with my dolls as I watched Doc Mcstuffins. I’m hoping to have a career where I can not only give back but, change the world because children are our future. I am determined to make it a reality, and I know I can with your help.

Being a young multiracial female has been a challenge for me so far. Finding individuals to accept me for me is not that common. I’ve always been told I look like a white girl by black people yet I’m not white enough for white people. My mom and dad told me who I was and where I came from, my mother being mixed with African American, Bahamian, Cherokee Indian, and Irish and my father being Jamaican with his grandmother from Germany, Im quite the mix. They both instilled in me to be proud of my heritage, even though the world might not be. Forgive those who would judge me because of the color of your skin and not the content of my character, and that is what I intend to do. I look forward to working with and helping people from all walks of life. Helping other young girls find pride in who they are and not who the world will try and make them out to be, teaching them to find beauty in different cultures and places. I want to make people like me be able to feel accepted and that they belong. It’s so hard to have that feeling and I would know. Even being a woman in today’s society comes with some sort of isolation. I remember being told I couldn’t play basketball with these boys because I was a girl. I joined the basketball team in retaliation to that and ended up going to the playoffs, and to the finals. Although we didn’t win, I felt like I proved myself a lot to those boys who desperately preached that basketball wasn’t a girls sport. I would take these struggles of my gender and culture with me to the healthcare setting to show how I wouldn’t discriminate against anyone who I am taking care of. It doesn’t matter where you are from, what gender you are, what you identify as, you are human, and you deserve the right amount of healthcare and attention that you need. I want everyone to feel inclusive and not feel uncomfortable because of who they are. I’ve grown to love myself in many aspects and I hope to help others realize you can love yourself as well. Everyone is different in many ways, living in New York City has made me realize that. There are so many different people from different places and it’s so fascinating to meet them and learn about them. I would take my past of being neglected to help others feel what I wanted to feel. Acceptance. In a way that will make sure they are healthy too.

I’ve never really LIVED in New York. I’ve survived New York. I’ve moved from place to place, borough to borough, shelter to shelter almost all my life because my family did not have enough money. My parents tried their hardest to blind me from our reality. Never once did I think that our situation was as bad as it was. In third grade, I went to a new school that was near the shelter, (I think this was the fourth shelter we had been moved to, and I was only 8 years old.) I focused on my studies, I tried to make friends, but the kids would pick on me because of my living situation. I remember my father picking me up from school and walking me to the shelter we stayed in and kids from my class followed. They mockingly said “Hi Tamarah” and acted as if they were my friend. I was confused at the time because these were the same kids that picked on me in class. Them laughing at me the next day made me feel horrible about myself. I was young and didn’t understand why kids were making fun of where I lived. Every single day my father asked how my day at school went, and I always lied and said it was fine. I didn’t want him to worry and he didn’t until my grades started dropping. I was unmotivated to do better in school and this carried on for a while. Again, moving to different shelters and meeting new people who I never got to see again was exhausting. This affected me as a person because every person I met was seen in my mind as temporary. Everything I was going through was seen as temporary. Recently, I had decided to do community service with my mom at this local shelter nearby. I had donated clothes there a few times but I had never really stopped by for a while. I helped can all sorts of goods at the local food pantry and helped give them out to people that needed them. Seeing the joy on their face as they received food and the relief that had made me feel really good. I had gotten flashbacks to when I was in a similar point of view as them. Fast forward to now, I don’t live in a shelter anymore but I do live in the projects. It’s an upgrade but it does come with some cons. It costs a lot to live in New York and the rent in the projects are high as well. My parents work extremely hard to try and have enough money to stay here because of the opportunities given. Now with me leaving for college, I don’t want to be in debt and relive my childhood all over again as an adult. This scholarship could help me get by my first year of college without being in debt. It could help me stay in a stable environment for at least a while without moving. I would greatly appreciate if you could consider me. Thank you for reading.

To me feminism is the empowerment of women, empowering women to vote, make decisions for their bodies, and have equal employment etc. It is important for women all over the world to feel this empowerment. For women to understand their voice is being heard, and their opinion matters. This is something women have fought for. Just to be seen as an equal person. Not a home/baby maker, but a person that can change the world giving the opportunity. My mom has always been my inspiration. She did not go with normal family traditions, waiting on my dad her husband to figure things out and or make money. In our family, she is the bread winner, and has always taught me to be a strong woman. That love is not waiting around for someone else to feed you, to be independent. To use my voice, and not be afraid to speak up. Which is what I do whenever I see any injustice done, especially against women. I recently ran for vice president at my High School 75% of my running partner’s were females. While I did not win I was happy that another female did win. I look forward to helping her make our senior year the best.

All my life, being healthy has been an important factor in my life. I’ve always been active by playing basketball and walking up stairs and hills. I enjoy salads and fruits and vegetables. Not only are they healthy, but they taste amazing and are very nutritious. Due to the pandemic I didn’t have much time to be active so I stayed home a lot and ate food. This caused me to gain a couple pounds. Towards the end I realized how I was less active than I used to be. I started working out at home and doing simple exercises like curl ups, bicycle kicks and so many more. I continued eating healthy, and cut out carbs for a little. I noticed a drastic change not only in my body image but in myself. I felt more happy and I felt accomplished and more energized. Being healthy really does cause a big change in your life.

All my life, being healthy has been an important factor in my life. I’ve always been active by playing basketball and walking up stairs and hills. I enjoy salads and fruits and vegetables. Not only are they healthy, but they taste amazing and are very nutritious. Due to the pandemic I didn’t have much time to be active so I stayed home a lot and ate food. This caused me to gain a couple pounds. Towards the end I realized how I was less active than I used to be. I started working out at home and doing simple exercises like curl ups, bicycle kicks and so many more. I continued eating healthy, and cut out carbs for a little. I noticed a drastic change not only in my body image but in myself. I felt more happy and I felt accomplished and more energized. Being healthy really does cause a big change in your life.

“I don’t understand why they don’t like me.” Those were the words of a 17 year old girl I met. I related to those words almost all my life and I understood her pain. She was being heavily bullied and treated horribly. They had broken her iPad, stole her food, tripped her, insulted her and mocked her. She was too afraid to tell anyone, even a teacher. She did not want anyone getting in trouble. She’s African and her accent is hard to understand at times. They take advantage of that and mock her to make her feel less about herself. This made me upset. I remember seeing her have a panic attack in the locker room after gym. She was crying and shaking and I never saw this in person so I was afraid. I tried holding her to calm her down. I rubbed her back and told her to try to breathe. I kept seeing her chest pump in and out rapidly. She was breathing so fast and I had to get her to the office or something. I explained what had happened to the teachers. I don’t really know what happened afterwards, but they never bothered her again. I hang out with her now and I try to make sure she doesn’t feel left out. I never want someone to experience what I experienced or what she experienced. We are all different in many ways and that is what makes us unique, it shouldn’t be something to make fun of.

I’ve never really LIVED in New York. I’ve survived New York. I’ve moved from place to place, borough to borough, shelter to shelter almost all my life because my family did not have enough money. My parents tried their hardest to blind me from our reality. Never once did I think that our situation was as bad as it was. I’ve always been the new kid. Everyone already knew each other, and I was just there. No one liked me at all. In third grade, I went to a new school that was near the shelter, (I think this was the fourth shelter we had been moved to, and I was only 8 years old.) I focused on my studies, I tried to make friends, but the kids would pick on me because of my living situation. I remember my father picking me up from school and walking me to the shelter we stayed in and kids from my class followed. They mockingly said “Hi Tamarah” and acted as if they were my friend. I was confused at the time because these were the same kids that picked on me in class. Them laughing at me the next day made me feel horrible about myself. I was young and didn’t understand why kids were making fun of where I lived. Every single day my father asked how my day at school went, and I always lied and said it was fine. I didn’t want him to worry and he didn’t until my grades started dropping. I was unmotivated to do better in school and this carried on for a while. Again, moving to different shelters and meeting new people who I never got to see again was exhausting. This affected me as a person because every person I met was seen in my mind as temporary. Everything I was going through was seen as temporary. It was only until recently where I finally could live somewhere permanently and understand what the word permanent truly meant. That dry erase marker had finally become permanent, even if it still was not in good condition. I went from living in shelters to living in the projects, which i’m incredibly grateful for. My grades have lifted and I met people who influence me in a positive way. Going through all this and more has made me want to go to a college where I can feel welcome, safe and happy. I want to go to a college that will leave a permanent imprint on me. I want to keep working on becoming a pediatrician to help make the world a better place. Surviving NYC was a challenge I endured, I think I’m ready to endure whatever is next.

I’ve never really LIVED in New York. I’ve survived New York. I’ve moved from place to place, borough to borough, shelter to shelter almost all my life because my family did not have enough money. My parents tried their hardest to blind me from our reality. Never once did I think that our situation was as bad as it was. I’ve always been the new kid. Everyone already knew each other, and I was just there. No one liked me at all. In third grade, I went to a new school that was near the shelter, (I think this was the fourth shelter we had been moved to, and I was only 8 years old.) I focused on my studies, I tried to make friends, but the kids would pick on me because of my living situation. I remember my father picking me up from school and walking me to the shelter we stayed in and kids from my class followed. They mockingly said “Hi Tamarah” and acted as if they were my friend. I was confused at the time because these were the same kids that picked on me in class. Them laughing at me the next day made me feel horrible about myself. I was young and didn’t understand why kids were making fun of where I lived. Every single day my father asked how my day at school went, and I always lied and said it was fine. I didn’t want him to worry and he didn’t until my grades started dropping. I was unmotivated to do better in school and this carried on for a while. Again, moving to different shelters and meeting new people who I never got to see again was exhausting. This affected me as a person because every person I met was seen in my mind as temporary. Everything I was going through was seen as temporary. It was only until recently where I finally could live somewhere permanently and understand what the word permanent truly meant. That dry erase marker had finally become permanent, even if it still was not in good condition. I went from living in shelters to living in the projects, which i’m incredibly grateful for. My grades have lifted and I met people who influence me in a positive way. Going through all this and more has made me want to go to a college where I can feel welcome, safe and happy. I want to go to a college that will leave a permanent imprint on me. I want to keep working on becoming a pediatrician to help make the world a better place. Surviving NYC was a challenge I endured, I think I’m ready to endure whatever is next.

I remember waiting outside in the waiting room for my mother to come back. I remember us walking ”home” in silence in the cold because we didn’t have a car. I was so naive. So confused. They had told me I was going to have a sister. They had told me this many times before. So where was she? Where was my sister? She wasn’t in the empty stroller my dad carried around. She wasn’t in my parents arms or anywhere to be found. Why did my mother look upset? Was there something wrong? All I remember was my father holding my mother while she cried in his arms. They told me to play with my toys, so I did. I didn’t ask questions. Now that I’m older, they explain what had happened. It was a stillbirth, it happened more than once. She told me one of my sisters could’ve survived. She knew something was wrong, but the doctor didn’t listen. The doctor thought my mother was freaking out, and it was normal. This caused my sisters death. No mother, no one should have to go through that unimaginable pain. To lose an unborn child that could’ve lived. To be unheard because a doctor feels they know what’s best. This has affected my perspective in life because it shows how many things can be prevented if we all just sit and listen. To have someone listen to what you have to say is powerful. To be unheard is draining. The fact my mother has to live with that for the rest of her life, makes me feel as if it should never happen to anyone ever again. I want to make sure that never happens. I want to be a doctor and make sure to listen to the mother before listening to myself because “mother knows best”. My mom has almost died because of pregnancies many times. Her last pregnancy was a success, and my sister has survived. The doctor listened, and was able to make sure I could have someone to bother for the rest of my life. So yes, that has changed my perspective on life. Instead of putting myself first, I tend to make sure to listen to others. Though I am not pregnant, nor am I a doctor yet, everyone deserves to be heard.

I want to become a pediatrician, or a pediatric surgeon. I would love the opportunity to help save a child’s life, and be a voice for those without one.

I’ve never really LIVED in New York. I’ve survived New York. I’ve moved from place to place, borough to borough, shelter to shelter almost all my life because my family did not have enough money. My parents tried their hardest to blind me from our reality. Never once did I think that our situation was as bad as it was. I’ve always been the new kid. Everyone already knew each other, and I was just there. No one liked me at all. In third grade, I went to a new school that was near the shelter, (I think this was the fourth shelter we had been moved to, and I was only 8 years old.) I focused on my studies, I tried to make friends, but the kids would pick on me because of my living situation. I remember my father picking me up from school and walking me to the shelter we stayed in and kids from my class followed. They mockingly said “Hi Tamarah” and acted as if they were my friends. I was confused at the time because these were the same kids that picked on me in class. Them laughing at me the next day made me feel horrible about myself. I was young and didn’t understand why kids were making fun of where I lived. Every single day my father asked how my day at school went, and I always lied and said it was fine. I didn’t want him to worry and he didn’t until my grades started dropping. I was unmotivated to do better in school and this carried on for a while. Again, moving to different shelters and meeting new people who I never got to see again was exhausting. This affected me as a person because every person I met was seen in my mind as temporary. Everything I was going through was seen as temporary. It was only until recently where I finally could live somewhere permanently and understand what the word permanent truly meant. That dry erase marker had finally become permanent, even if it still was not in good condition. I went from living in shelters to living in the projects, which i’m incredibly grateful for. My grades have lifted and I met people who influence me in a positive way. Going through all this and more has made me want to go to a college where I can feel welcome, safe and happy. I want to go to a college that will leave a permanent imprint on me. I want to keep working on becoming a pediatrician to help make the world a better place. Surviving NYC was a challenge I endured, I think I’m ready to endure whatever is next.

I remember waiting outside in the waiting room for my mother to come back. I remember us walking ”home” in silence in the cold because we didn’t have a car. I was so naive. So confused. They had told me I was going to have a sister. They had told me this many times before. So where was she? Where was my sister? She wasn’t in the empty stroller my dad carried around. She wasn’t in my parents arms or anywhere to be found. Why did my mother look upset? Was there something wrong? All I remember was my father holding my mother while she cried in his arms. They told me to play with my toys, so I did. I didn’t ask questions. Now that I’m older, they explain what happened, It was a stillbirth. It happened more than once, my mom told me one of my sisters could’ve survived. She knew something was wrong, but the doctor didn’t listen. The doctor thought my mother was freaking out, and it was normal. This caused my sisters death. No mother, no one should have to go through that unimaginable pain. To lose a unborn child that could’ve lived. To be unheard because a doctor feels they know what’s best. This has affected my perspective in life, because it shows how many things can be prevented if we all just sit and listen. To have someone listen to what you have to say is powerful. To be unheard is draining. The fact my mother has to live with that for the rest of her life, makes me feel as if it should never happen to anyone ever again. I want to make sure that never happens. I want to be a doctor and make sure to listen to the mother before listening to myself because “mother knows best”. My mom has almost died because of pregnancies many times. Her last pregnancy was a success, and my sister has survived. The doctor listened, and was able to make sure I could have someone to bother for the rest of my life. So yes, that has changed my perspective on life. Instead of putting myself first, I tend to make sure to listen to others. Though I am not pregnant, nor am I a doctor, well at least not yet. This has taught me everyone deserves to be heard.

I remember waiting outside in the waiting room for my mother to come back. I remember us walking ”home” in silence in the cold because we didn’t have a car. I was so naive. So confused. They had told me I was going to have a sister. They had told me this many times before. So where was she? Where was my sister? She wasn’t in the empty stroller my dad carried around. She wasn’t in my parents arms or anywhere to be found. Why did my mother look upset? Was there something wrong? All I remember was my father holding my mother while she cried in his arms. They told me to play with my toys, so I did. I didn’t ask questions. Now that I’m older, they explain what had happened. It was a miscarriage. It had happened more than once, all because my mother wanted another child. She tells me one of them could’ve survived. She knew something was wrong but the doctor didn’t listen. The doctor thought my mother was freaking out, and it was normal. This caused my sisters death. No mother, no one should have to go through that unimaginable pain. To lose an unborn child that could’ve lived. To be unheard because a doctor feels they know what’s best. This has affected my perspective in life because it shows how many things can be prevented if we all just sit and listen. To have someone listen to what you have to say is powerful. To be unheard is draining. The fact my mother has to live with that for the rest of her life, makes me feel as if it should never happen to anyone ever again. I want to make sure that never happens. I want to be a doctor and make sure to listen to the mother before listening to myself because “mother knows best”. My mom has almost died because of pregnancies many times. Her last pregnancy was a success, and my sister has survived. The doctor listened, and was able to make sure I could have someone to bother for the rest of my life. So yes, that has changed my perspective on life. Instead of putting myself first, I tend to make sure to listen to others. Though I am not pregnant, nor am I a doctor yet, everyone deserves to be heard.

I remember waiting outside in the waiting room for my mother to come back. I remember us walking ”home” in silence in the cold because we didn’t have a car. I was so naive. So confused. They had told me I was going to have a sister. They had told me this many times before. So where was she? Where was my sister? She wasn’t in the empty stroller my dad carried around. She wasn’t in my parents arms or anywhere to be found. Why did my mother look upset? Was there something wrong? All I remember was my father holding my mother while she cried in his arms. They told me to play with my toys, so I did. I didn’t ask questions. Now that I’m older, they explain what had happened. It was a miscarriage. It had happened more than once, all because my mother wanted another child. She tells me one of them could’ve survived. She knew something was wrong but the doctor didn’t listen. The doctor thought my mother was freaking out, and it was normal. This caused my sisters death. No mother, no one should have to go through that unimaginable pain. To lose an unborn child that could’ve lived. To be unheard because a doctor feels they know what’s best. This has affected my perspective in life because it shows how many things can be prevented if we all just sit and listen. To have someone listen to what you have to say is powerful. To be unheard is draining. The fact my mother has to live with that for the rest of her life, makes me feel as if it should never happen to anyone ever again. I want to make sure that never happens. I want to be a doctor and make sure to listen to the mother before listening to myself because “mother knows best”. My mom has almost died because of pregnancies many times. Her last pregnancy was a success, and my sister has survived. The doctor listened, and was able to make sure I could have someone to bother for the rest of my life. So yes, that has changed my perspective on life. Instead of putting myself first, I tend to make sure to listen to others. Though I am not pregnant, nor am I a doctor yet, everyone deserves to be heard.

I’ve never really LIVED in New York. I’ve survived New York. I’ve moved from place to place, borough to borough, shelter to shelter almost all my life because my family did not have enough money. My parents tried their hardest to blind me from our reality. Never once did I think that our situation was as bad as it was. I’ve always been the new kid. Everyone already knew each other, and I was just there. No one liked me at all. In third grade, I went to a new school that was near the shelter, (I think this was the fourth shelter we had been moved to, and I was only 8 years old.) I remember my father picking me up from school and walking me to the shelter we stayed in and kids from my class followed. They mockingly said “Hi Tamarah” acting as if they were my friend. I was confused at the time, these were the same kids that picked on me in class. Them laughing at me the next day made me feel horrible about myself. I was young and didn’t understand why kids were making fun of where I lived. I focused on my studies, I tried to make friends, but all the kids would pick on me, because of my living situation. Every single day my father asked how my day at school went, and I always lied and said it was fine. I didn’t want him to worry and he didn’t until my grades started dropping. I was unmotivated to do better in school and this carried on for a while. Again, moving to different shelters and meeting new people who I never got to see again was exhausting. This affected me as a person because every person I met was seen in my mind as temporary. Everything I was going through was seen as temporary. It was only until recently where I finally could live somewhere permanently and understand what the word permanent truly meant. That dry erase marker had finally become permanent, even if it still was not in good condition. I went from living in shelters to living in the projects, which i’m incredibly grateful for. My grades have lifted and I met people who influence me in a positive way. Going through all this and more has made me want to go to a college where I can feel welcome, safe and happy. I want to go to a college that will leave a permanent imprint on me. I want to keep working on becoming a pediatrician to help make the world a better place. Surviving NYC was a challenge I endured, I think I’m ready to endure whatever is next.

I remember waiting outside in the waiting room for my mother to come back. I remember us walking ”home” in silence in the cold because we didn’t have a car. I was so naive. So confused. They had told me I was going to have a sister. They had told me this many times before. So where was she? Where was my sister? She wasn’t in the empty stroller my dad carried around. She wasn’t in my parents arms or anywhere to be found. Why did my mother look upset? Was there something wrong? All I remember was my father holding my mother while she cried in his arms. They told me to play with my toys, so I did. I didn’t ask questions. Now that I’m older, they explain what had happened. It was a miscarriage. It had happened more than once, all because my mother wanted another child. She tells me one of them could’ve survived. She knew something was wrong but the doctor didn’t listen. The doctor thought my mother was freaking out, and it was normal. This caused my sisters death. No mother, no one should have to go through that unimaginable pain. To lose an unborn child that could’ve lived. To be unheard because a doctor feels they know what’s best. This has affected my perspective in life because it shows how many things can be prevented if we all just sit and listen. To have someone listen to what you have to say is powerful. To be unheard is draining. The fact my mother has to live with that for the rest of her life, makes me feel as if it should never happen to anyone ever again. I want to make sure that never happens. I want to be a doctor and make sure to listen to the mother before listening to myself because “mother knows best”. My mom has almost died because of pregnancies many times. Her last pregnancy was a success, and my sister has survived. The doctor listened, and was able to make sure I could have someone to bother for the rest of my life. So yes, that has changed my perspective on life. Instead of putting myself first, I tend to make sure to listen to others. Though I am not pregnant, nor am I a doctor yet, everyone deserves to be heard.

I’ve never really LIVED in New York. I’ve survived New York. I’ve moved from place to place, borough to borough, shelter to shelter almost all my life because my family did not have enough money. My parents tried their hardest to blind me from our reality. Never once did I think that our situation was as bad as it was. I’ve always been the new kid. Everyone already knew each other, and I was just there. No one liked me at all. In third grade, I went to a new school that was near the shelter, (I think this was the fourth shelter we had been moved to, and I was only 8 years old.) I focused on my studies, I tried to make friends, but the kids would pick on me because of my living situation. I remember my father picking me up from school and walking me to the shelter we stayed in and kids from my class followed. They mockingly said “Hi Tamarah” and acted as if they were my friend. I was confused at the time because these were the same kids that picked on me in class. Them laughing at me the next day made me feel horrible about myself. I was young and didn’t understand why kids were making fun of where I lived. Every single day my father asked how my day at school went, and I always lied and said it was fine. I didn’t want him to worry and he didn’t until my grades started dropping. I was unmotivated to do better in school and this carried on for a while. Again, moving to different shelters and meeting new people who I never got to see again was exhausting. This affected me as a person because every person I met was seen in my mind as temporary. Everything I was going through was seen as temporary. It was only until recently where I finally could live somewhere permanently and understand what the word permanent truly meant. That dry erase marker had finally become permanent, even if it still was not in good condition. I went from living in shelters to living in the projects, which i’m incredibly grateful for. My grades have lifted and I met people who influence me in a positive way. Going through all this and more has made me want to go to a college where I can feel welcome, safe and happy. I want to go to a college that will leave a permanent imprint on me. I want to keep working on becoming a pediatrician to help make the world a better place. Surviving NYC was a challenge I endured, I think I’m ready to endure whatever is next.

I’ve never really LIVED in New York. I’ve survived New York. I’ve moved from place to place, borough to borough, shelter to shelter almost all my life because my family did not have enough money. My parents tried their hardest to blind me from our reality. Never once did I think that our situation was as bad as it was. I’ve always been the new kid. Everyone already knew each other, and I was just there. No one liked me at all. In third grade, I went to a new school that was near the shelter, (I think this was the fourth shelter we had been moved to, and I was only 8 years old.) I focused on my studies, I tried to make friends, but the kids would pick on me because of my living situation. I remember my father picking me up from school and walking me to the shelter we stayed in and kids from my class followed. They mockingly said “Hi Tamarah” and acted as if they were my friend. I was confused at the time because these were the same kids that picked on me in class. Them laughing at me the next day made me feel horrible about myself. I was young and didn’t understand why kids were making fun of where I lived. Every single day my father asked how my day at school went, and I always lied and said it was fine. I didn’t want him to worry and he didn’t until my grades started dropping. I was unmotivated to do better in school and this carried on for a while. Again, moving to different shelters and meeting new people who I never got to see again was exhausting. This affected me as a person because every person I met was seen in my mind as temporary. Everything I was going through was seen as temporary. It was only until recently where I finally could live somewhere permanently and understand what the word permanent truly meant. That dry erase marker had finally become permanent, even if it still was not in good condition. I went from living in shelters to living in the projects, which i’m incredibly grateful for. My grades have lifted and I met people who influence me in a positive way. Going through all this and more has made me want to go to a college. A college where I can feel welcome, safe, and happy. I want to go to a college that will leave a permanent imprint on me. I want to keep working on becoming a pediatrician to help make the world a better place. I know I am going to be dependent on scholarships to make this dream a reality. However, surviving NYC was a challenge I endured, I think I’m ready to endure whatever is next.

I remember waiting outside in the waiting room for my mother to come back. I remember us walking ”home” in silence in the cold because we didn’t have a car. I was so naive. So confused. They had told me I was going to have a sister. They had told me this many times before. So where was she? Where was my sister? She wasn’t in the empty stroller my dad carried around. She wasn’t in my parents arms or anywhere to be found. Why did my mother look upset? Was there something wrong? All I remember was my father holding my mother while she cried in his arms. They told me to play with my toys, so I did. I didn’t ask questions. Now that I’m older, they explain what had happened. It was a miscarriage. It had happened more than once, all because my mother wanted another child. She tells me one of them could’ve survived. She knew something was wrong but the doctor didn’t listen. The doctor thought my mother was freaking out, and it was normal. This caused my sisters death. No mother, no one should have to go through that unimaginable pain. To lose an unborn child that could’ve lived. To be unheard because a doctor feels they know what’s best. This has affected my perspective in life because it shows how many things can be prevented if we all just sit and listen. To have someone listen to what you have to say is powerful. To be unheard is draining. The fact my mother has to live with that for the rest of her life, makes me feel as if it should never happen to anyone ever again. I want to make sure that never happens. I want to be a doctor and make sure to listen to the mother before listening to myself because “mother knows best”. My mom has almost died because of pregnancies many times. Her last pregnancy was a success, and my sister has survived. The doctor listened, and was able to make sure I could have someone to bother for the rest of my life. So yes, that has changed my perspective on life. Instead of putting myself first, I tend to make sure to listen to others. Though I am not pregnant, nor am I a doctor yet, everyone deserves to be heard.

I remember sitting in the hospital waiting room. Waiting for my mother to come back. I remember us walking ”home” in silence, in the cold, because we didn’t have a car. I was so naive. So confused. They told me, I was going to have a sister. They told me this many times before. Where was she? Where was my sister? She wasn’t in the empty stroller my dad carried around. She wasn’t in my parents arms, or anywhere to be found. Why did my mother look upset? Was there something wrong? All I remember was my father holding my mother while she cried in his arms. They told me to play with my toys, so I did. I didn’t ask questions. Now that I’m older, they explain what happened. It was a stillbirth. It happened more than once. My mom told me one of my sisters could’ve survived. She knew something was wrong, the baby wasn’t active, but the doctor didn’t listen. The doctor told her to go home, and drink some juice, give the baby a bit a sugar. The doctor thought my mother was over exaggerating, and everything was normal. This caused my sisters death. No mother, no one should have to go through that unimaginable pain. To lose an unborn child that could’ve lived. To be unheard because a doctor feels they know what’s best. This has affected my perspective in life. It has taught me how many things can be prevented if we all just sit and listen. To have your medical provider listen to what you have to say is powerful. To be unheard is draining. The fact my mother has to live with that for the rest of her life, makes me feel as if it should never happen to anyone ever again. I want to make sure that never happens. I want to be a doctor and make sure to listen to the mother before listening to myself because “mother knows best”. My mom has almost died because of pregnancies many times. Her last pregnancy was a success, and my sister has survived. The doctor listened, and was able to make sure I could have someone to bother for the rest of my life. So yes, that has changed my perspective on life. Instead of putting myself first, I tend to make sure to listen to others. Though I am not pregnant, nor am I a doctor, at least not yet, everyone deserves to be heard.

I remember waiting outside in the waiting room for my mother to come back. I remember us walking ”home” in silence in the cold because we didn’t have a car. I was so naive. So confused. They had told me I was going to have a sister. They had told me this many times before. So where was she? Where was my sister? She wasn’t in the empty stroller my dad carried around. She wasn’t in my parents arms or anywhere to be found. Why did my mother look upset? Was there something wrong? All I remember was my father holding my mother while she cried in his arms. They told me to play with my toys, so I did. I didn’t ask questions. Now that I’m older, they explain what had happened. It was a miscarriage. It had happened more than once, all because my mother wanted another child. She tells me one of them could’ve survived. She knew something was wrong but the doctor didn’t listen. The doctor thought my mother was freaking out, and it was normal. This caused my sisters death. No mother, no one should have to go through that unimaginable pain. To lose an unborn child that could’ve lived. To be unheard because a doctor feels they know what’s best. This has affected my perspective in life because it shows how many things can be prevented if we all just sit and listen. To have someone listen to what you have to say is powerful. To be unheard is draining. The fact my mother has to live with that for the rest of her life, makes me feel as if it should never happen to anyone ever again. I want to make sure that never happens. I want to be a doctor and make sure to listen to the mother before listening to myself because “mother knows best”. My mom has almost died because of pregnancies many times. Her last pregnancy was a success, and my sister has survived. The doctor listened, and was able to make sure I could have someone to bother for the rest of my life. So yes, that has changed my perspective on life. Instead of putting myself first, I tend to make sure to listen to others. Though I am not pregnant, nor am I a doctor yet, everyone deserves to be heard.

I remember waiting outside in the waiting room for my mother to come back. I remember us walking ”home” in silence in the cold, because we didn’t have a car. I was so naive. So confused. They had told me I was going to have a sister. They had told me this many times before. So where was she? Where was my sister? She wasn’t in the empty stroller my dad carried around. She wasn’t in my parents arms, or anywhere to be found. Why did my mother look upset? Was there something wrong? All I remember was my father holding my mother while she cried in his arms. They told me to play with my toys, so I did. I didn’t ask questions. Now that I’m older, they explained what happened, It was a stillbirth. It happened more than once, she told me one of them could’ve survived. She knew something was wrong, but the doctor didn’t listen. The doctor thought my mother was freaking out, and it was normal. This caused my sisters death. No mother, no one should have to go through that unimaginable pain. To lose an unborn child that could’ve lived. To be unheard, because a doctor feels they know what’s best. This has affected my perspective in life, because it shows how many things can be prevented if we all just sit and listen. To have someone listen to what you have to say is powerful. To be unheard is draining. The fact my mother has to live with that for the rest of her life, makes me feel as if it should never happen to anyone ever again. I want to make sure that never happens. I want to be a doctor, and make sure to listen to the mother before listening to myself because “mother knows best”. My mom has almost died because of pregnancies many times. Her last pregnancy was a success, and my sister has survived. The doctor listened, and was able to make sure I could have someone to bother for the rest of my life. So yes, that has changed my perspective on life. Instead of putting myself first, I tend to make sure to listen to others. Though I am not pregnant, nor am I a doctor yet, everyone deserves to be heard.

I’ve never really LIVED in New York. I’ve survived New York. I’ve moved from place to place, borough to borough, shelter to shelter almost all my life. My parents tried their hardest to blind me from our reality. Never once did I think that our situation was as bad as it was. Going to school I was always the new kid. Everyone already knew each other, and I was just there. No one liked me at all. In third grade, I went to a new school that was near the shelter, (I think this was the fourth shelter we had been moved to, and I was only 8 years old.) I remember my father picking me up from school, him walking me to the shelter we stayed in, and kids from my class followed. They mockingly said “Hi Tamarah” acting as if they were my friends. I was confused at the time because these were the same kids that picked on me in class. Them laughing at me the next day made me feel horrible about myself. I focused on my studies, I tried to make friends, but the kids would pick on me because of my living situation. I was young, and didn’t understand why kids were making fun of where I lived. Every single day my father asked how my day at school went, and I always lied, and said it was fine. I didn’t want him to worry and he didn’t until my grades started dropping. I was unmotivated to do better in school and this carried on for a while. Again, moving to different shelters and meeting new people who I never got to see again, was exhausting. This affected me as a person because every person I met was seen in my mind as temporary. Everything I was going through was seen as temporary. It was only until recently where I finally could live somewhere permanently, and understand what the word permanent truly meant. That dry erase marker had finally become permanent, even if it still was not in good condition. I went from living in shelters to living in the projects, which i’m incredibly grateful for. My grades have lifted, and I met people who influence me in a positive way. Going through all this and more has made me want to go to a college where I can feel welcome, safe and happy. I want to go to a college that will leave a permanent imprint on me. I want to keep working on becoming a pediatrician to help make the world a better place. Surviving NYC was a challenge I endured, I think I’m ready to endure whatever is next.