Hello my name is Weston McMillan and I wanted to start this essay by giving my deepest condolences to your son. I also want to thank you for your generous heart to pour into us young men aspiring to go to college and helping us make a mark on this world. For the past sixteen years, I’ve been learning Mandarin—not because it’s part of my heritage, but because I believe language is a powerful bridge to understanding, empathy, and equity. As someone who is Afro-Caribbean, my commitment to Mandarin began with curiosity and grew into a lifelong passion for cross-cultural connection. That curiosity has always defined me—whether picking up bugs or trying to help my dad with taxes. It first drew me to Mandarin when I was enrolled in a daycare where the staff primarily spoke the language. I picked up greetings from teachers and cartoons, and that spark grew. Encouraged by my teachers, I later attended a Mandarin immersion school from kindergarten through eighth grade, where half the school day was taught in Mandarin. There, I gained deep exposure to Chinese history, symbolism, cuisine, and art. But learning the language wasn’t always easy. I didn’t share my classmates’ heritage or speak Mandarin at home. I was once singled out in fifth grade because of my darker skin, and I often felt like I didn’t belong. Yet I refused to let those experiences discourage me. Instead, I worked harder—staying late, attending office hours, and eventually earning the lead role in a Chinese play. My efforts were also recognized with an Academic Excellence Award from my high School’s Chinese Department. In high school, I launched Weston’s Mandarin Fluent Futures, a tutoring business where I teach children to read, write, and speak Mandarin through personalized lessons. I’ve seen how language expands their worldviews and boosts their confidence. Teaching has shown me how communication fosters empathy—something that’s vital in every field, especially medicine. This understanding led me to explore healthcare through a cultural lens. I began shadowing and learning from a Chinese medicine physician. Though it’s not part of my background, I wanted to understand how different cultures approach health, balance, and healing. I learned how deeply rooted beliefs impact patient care, and I saw how trust grows when doctors honor those beliefs rather than dismiss them. This inspired me to pursue a career in medicine focused on culturally competent care. At Stanford Tri-Valley, I interned in a hospital environment that values both innovation and inclusion. I gained hands-on experience with CPR and suturing, and observed specialties ranging from internal medicine to radiology. I even learned to use advanced tools like the Da Vinci Surgical System. These experiences deepened my interest in medicine—but also highlighted how unequal access to healthcare technology and education can be. I became passionate about research that uses data to address healthcare disparities, identify systemic gaps, and create patient-centered solutions rooted in empathy and cultural awareness. To further serve my community and strengthen my clinical skills, I’m working toward becoming a certified EMT. I want to gain experience on the frontlines—offering urgent care, learning from real-world patient interactions, and building the skills to become a compassionate and effective physician. These encounters will help me understand the unique needs of vulnerable populations and shape how I practice medicine in the future. Mandarin was my first window into the power of language to bridge worlds. It has guided my journey into education, medicine, and advocacy. Now, I’m preparing to major in Mandarin and biology at New York University—continuing my commitment to cultural understanding. I believe medicine is not just about science—it’s about listening, respecting, and connecting with people from every background. Receiving the Treye Knorr Memorial scholarship would allow me to continue this work, combining language, research, and service to build a more inclusive healthcare system. My journey may be nontraditional, but it’s rooted in curiosity, resilience, and a vision for a future where everyone feels seen, heard, and cared for.

On my first day of kindergarten at a Mandarin immersion school, I stood out—an Afro-Caribbean kid among mostly Chinese-American classmates. I struggled to fit in, both because of my heritage and limited Mandarin. In fifth grade, my classmates compared their skin to mine and asked why I looked so different. That moment made me question my identity—but not my passion. Despite the challenges, I remained committed to Mandarin. I was captivated by its powerful symbolism and beautiful tradition and learning it. I started to feel that it was a kind of second home. I was enthralled by Chinese stories, including those about the Monkey King (顺悟空), which highlight values like loyalty with humor. Without Mandarin-fluent parents, I worked harder—staying late, asking questions, and eventually earning the lead part in a Chinese play in sixth grade. My dedication paid off: in high school, I received an Academic Excellence Award from the Chinese Department. Additionally in high school, I was inspired to teach Mandarin, so I started a Mandarin tutoring business called Weston’s Fluent Futures. I seek to make Mandarin fun and engaging through animations with cars or nature. I treasure the relationships I have developed with my students through my love of Mandarin. To me, teaching Mandarin feels like inspiring a new generation of learners. Currently, I plan to attend New York University where I will be studying Mandarin and Biology. I envision myself utilizing my education in Mandarin as a gateway into culturally competent medicine—connecting with patients from diverse backgrounds, especially those in underserved Chinese-speaking communities. Whether translating medical information or making someone feel understood, I believe language can be a tool for healing. My ultimate goal is to become a physician who bridges the gap between science and culture, ensuring no one is left behind due to cultural barriers.

Wrestling has been one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of my life. The sport demands relentless physical and mental endurance, pushing me to my limits every time I step onto the mat. Through grueling practices, tough losses, and moments of self-doubt, I’ve learned that success isn’t defined by talent alone—it’s built through discipline, resilience, and unwavering commitment. This journey reached a peak when I won my regional wrestling championship, an achievement that represents not just a title, but years of perseverance, sacrifice, and growth. Winning regionals was not a moment of luck—it was the result of countless hours spent training when I was exhausted, studying my opponents’ techniques, and holding myself accountable both on and off the mat. Leading up to the championship, I faced physically demanding workouts and intense pressure to perform. I also battled injuries and the mental toll that comes with high-stakes competition. But I refused to let setbacks define me. Every time I lost a match or fell short in practice, I treated it as an opportunity to improve. I reviewed recordings, adjusted my technique, and came back stronger—mentally and physically. What makes wrestling unique is how deeply personal each victory or defeat feels. There are no teammates to pass the ball to or share the weight—it’s just you and your opponent. This individual accountability has shaped my character more than anything else. It’s taught me how to handle pressure, how to stay composed when things don’t go as planned, and how to keep moving forward even when the odds seem stacked against me. These lessons have profoundly influenced my academic journey and my long-term goal of becoming a Cardiothoracic surgeon. Just like wrestling, medicine demands precision under pressure, endurance through long hours, and the emotional strength to care for others during their most vulnerable moments. The same determination that helped me win my regional title fuels my drive to study medicine. Whether I’m preparing for a biology exam or exploring new developments in biomedical research, I bring the same focused mindset I’ve developed through years of competition. Wrestling has also taught me how to learn from failure—an essential skill in both athletics and medicine. I’ve learned that a mistake doesn’t define you, but how you respond to it does. I apply this to academics by seeking out feedback, reviewing where I went wrong, and making strategic adjustments. I’m not afraid of falling short, because I know how to rise after a setback. That mindset will be vital as I navigate the rigorous path to medical school and residency. Beyond physical and mental toughness, wrestling has instilled in me a deep appreciation for discipline and time management. Balancing late practices with schoolwork, weight management, and competition has made me efficient, focused, and driven. These habits will drive me to achieve my goals in medical school.  Ultimately, winning the regional championship was more than a medal—it was a validation of years of struggle and growth. Wrestling has shaped me into someone who embraces challenges, learns from adversity, and never stops striving for excellence. I know that the mindset and skills I’ve developed on the mat will carry me through medical school and into the operating room, where I’ll continue pushing myself to be the best version of who I can be—for my patients, my community, and myself.

Growing up, I witnessed how cultural disparities in healthcare can affect lives in deeply personal ways. Members of my community- people of color and Mandarin speakers- often face long waits, misdiagnoses, and are dismissed due to bias or a lack of resources. Witnessing these social injustices has sparked a passion in me not only to pursue a career in medicine, but continue to master the language of Mandarin spoken by a billion people. For the past sixteen years, I have been learning Mandarin—not because it is part of my heritage, but because I believe language is a powerful bridge. As someone who is not Chinese, my commitment to learning Mandarin began with curiosity but has evolved into a lifelong passion for cross-cultural understanding. This journey has led me to teach Mandarin to children, study Chinese medicine, and pursue a career in medicine with a focus on improving healthcare access and cultural competency. My goal is to become a doctor who not only treats patients but also advocates for systemic change. To prepare for this, I have served and volunteered in my community during all of my high school years. My recent service was spent volunteering in a Chinese clinic, being an intern at Stanford Tri-Valley, and obtained my CPR certification. I've gained exposure to both the clinical side of care and the social challenges patients face. I was very impacted while working at the Chinese clinic. I helped with restocking, packaging Chinese medicines for various treatments, and shadowed the doctor during acupuncture and cupping procedures. All of my service opportunities have opened my eyes to the inequalities embedded in our system. Through each of these experiences, I have come to understand that healthcare is not only a science—it is a human experience rooted in communication and trust. Teaching Mandarin to children who come from English-speaking backgrounds has shown me the power of language to expand worldviews. I’ve seen students grow more confident and culturally aware as they engage with a language and culture different from their own. While this may seem unrelated to healthcare at first glance, it revealed to me how vital cultural understanding is in all areas of life, especially medicine. When people are exposed to other perspectives early, they are more likely to be empathetic and open-minded later. I hope to carry that same philosophy into clinical settings, where patients come from diverse backgrounds and deserve to feel respected and understood. To further serve my community and strengthen my clinical experience, I am also working toward becoming a certified EMT. Working on the frontlines will allow me to provide urgent care to those in need while developing the real-world skills necessary to be an effective, compassionate physician. These encounters will give me valuable insights into the needs of vulnerable populations and help shape my approach to future medical practice. Receiving the West Family Scholarship would allow me to continue this work, using language, research, and service to build bridges between communities and care. My journey may not be traditional, but it is deeply rooted in a vision for a more inclusive, understanding, and equitable healthcare system for all.

I want to pursue education in healthcare because this past year, I lost my grandfather to cancer. I lost one of my grandmothers four years ago to cancer, and recently my other grandmother has been diagnosed with lung cancer. My future career goal is to become a cardiac thoracic surgeon. I want to help people in my community not experience the devastating effects of cancer. This is why I want to give all people equal access to CRISPR for an affordable price. CRISPR allows scientists to edit an organism's DNA with a reverse transcriptase protein and control cancerous tissue. I love learning about anatomical processes such as the respiratory system and the various diseases associated with it. This is another reason I am excited about pursuing an education in healthcare. This past summer, I was part of a medical internship where I studied tendon and neuronal reflex testing. I enjoyed learning how to suture wounds. This experience has motivated me to learn more about the brain. I loved learning about how life maintains homeostasis, so much so that it sparked a lasting interest in the subject. I love learning about anatomy and pathology; I’m particularly interested in pathologies of the respiratory system. I recently received my CPR certification and learned how to give a complete physical exam, and this experience would allow me to expand my medical knowledge while helping the community. During the summer of my junior year, I had the privilege of taking part in the Stanford Medicine Clinical Internship program. I took advantage of my summer as an intern and was inspired to continue to pursue my dream of becoming a physician. My experience helped me look forward to providing excellent care for patients in need. When one of my mentors told me about a medical internship at Stanford, I quickly filled out the application. It was the chance of a lifetime, and I was determined not to miss out. I wrote three essays, submitted my application, and was awarded a $5,000 scholarship. I entered the internship with an energetic and hungry mindset. Each of the hands-on labs and presentations piqued my interest. I learned how to splint broken limb bones, practiced suturing techniques like deep dermal stitching on suture pads, studied the process for completing a full physical exam and biopsy for a patient, and was trained in the basics of cardiopulmonary resuscitation. I enjoyed listening to an oncologist's presentation on the cancer epidemic and touring an ambulance with EMT staff. I shadowed a Stanford pathologist for a day, learning antiseptic practices and procedures and how to identify cancerous tissue from surgical biopsies. My favorite moment was when I learned how to operate the $1.5 million da Vinci robotic surgical system. The staff taught me how to use the robot's cauterization clips, right and left forceps, and suction irrigators. After I was trained, I used the machine to carefully unwrap a Reese's Peanut Butter Cup. I felt like a surgeon as I maneuvered the bionic arms in each direction. The internship showed me that working as a physician is, in many ways, like being a craftsman. What unites the many different healthcare techniques and procedures I learned is close, painstaking attention to detail. When you’re responsible for patients who are suffering and in pain, you owe it to them to get it right the first time. I hope that, one day, I can be part of providing the high-quality care that every person deserves.

Wrestling has been one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of my life. The sport demands relentless physical and mental endurance, pushing me to my limits every time I step onto the mat. Throughout my wrestling journey, I have faced numerous setbacks—from grueling practices to tough losses in matches. However, each defeat and difficult moment has served as an opportunity for growth, teaching me the value of perseverance, discipline, and resilience. These lessons have not only shaped me as an athlete but have also profoundly influenced my academic journey and my aspiration to become a cardiothoracic surgeon. Losing a wrestling match is never easy. The hours of preparation, the sweat, and the sacrifices make every match meaningful, so when I fall short, it can be disheartening. However, wrestling has taught me that losses are not failures but stepping stones to improvement. Instead of dwelling on a loss, I analyze my performance, identifying the weaknesses that need to be addressed. I embrace each setback as a learning experience, focusing on refining my technique, building my strength, honing my strategy, and even asking my coach Armondo for guidance in different positions. Through this learning curve I was able to get a regional wrestling championship win at 165 pounds. This mentality and drive has translated directly into my academic life. Just as I review my matches to improve and succeed, I apply the same discipline to my studies by reviewing mistakes, seeking help when needed, and continuously challenging myself to excel. Difficult practices are another integral part of my wrestling journey. Training sessions push my body and mind beyond their comfort zones, testing my endurance and willpower. There have been times when exhaustion made me want to give up, but I have learned to push through the discomfort, knowing that every ounce of effort contributes to my growth. This resilience is crucial in my pursuit of becoming a cardiothoracic surgeon. The road to medicine is rigorous, filled with demanding coursework, long hours of study, and the need for precision and adaptability. Just as I have learned to embrace the grind in wrestling, I am prepared to tackle the challenges of medical school and residency with the same unwavering determination. Beyond the physical and mental challenges, wrestling has instilled in me a deep appreciation for discipline and commitment. Early morning workouts, strict weight management, and a relentless work ethic have become second nature to me. These qualities are essential for a successful career in surgery, where precision, stamina, and dedication are paramount. A cardiothoracic surgeon must be able to handle high-pressure situations, make split-second decisions, and persevere through long, demanding procedures. Wrestling has prepared me for this by fostering my ability to stay composed under pressure and perform at my best, even in the face of adversity. Ultimately, wrestling has shaped me into someone who embraces challenges, learns from setbacks, and continuously strives for excellence. The lessons I have learned on the mat extend far beyond the sport, influencing my academic pursuits and my dream of becoming a cardiothoracic surgeon. Just as I push myself to be a better wrestler, I will push myself to be a better student, a better future doctor, and ultimately, someone who makes a lasting impact in the field of medicine.

Last summer, I had the incredible opportunity to explore the intersection of medicine and technology, a journey that deepened my passion for both fields. One of the most exciting experiences was using the DaVinci surgical robot to practice suturing. I had always been fascinated by the precision and innovation that robotic-assisted surgery offers, and getting the chance to work with the DaVinci system firsthand was transformative. Through guided exercises, I practiced creating surgical knots and stitching with remarkable accuracy, gaining a new appreciation for how technology can enhance a surgeon's capabilities. This experience solidified my desire to pursue a career in medicine, where I could integrate cutting-edge tools to improve patient outcomes. In addition to developing my technical skills, I also explored the realm of personalized medicine with the help of artificial intelligence. I attended a summer workshop where I learned how AI algorithms are revolutionizing the way doctors diagnose diseases and tailor treatments to individual patients. One hands-on project involved analyzing genetic data sets to predict a patient’s likelihood of developing certain conditions, such as cardiovascular disease. Using machine learning models, we identified patterns in the data that could indicate early warning signs, allowing for more proactive and preventive care. This experience opened my eyes to the potential of AI to transform healthcare, making it more precise, efficient, and personalized. To further immerse myself in this dynamic field, I also began learning about the applications of AI and machine learning in medical imaging. I participated in a collaborative research project that used convolutional neural networks (CNNs) to analyze and detect abnormalities in chest X-rays. Although I was not creating my own algorithm, I was introduced to Python libraries like TensorFlow and Keras, understanding how AI can be trained to identify patterns that might be invisible to the human eye. This exposure not only strengthened my coding skills but also gave me insight into how AI is enhancing diagnostic accuracy, and potentially saving lives through early detection. As I look ahead to college, I am excited about the opportunity to build on this foundation and dive deeper into AI-driven innovations in medicine. I hope to engage in research that explores how natural language processing (NLP) can streamline electronic health records, improving communication between physicians and reducing administrative burdens. By developing tools that allow doctors to spend more time with patients and less time on paperwork, I believe I can make a meaningful impact on both healthcare efficiency and the patient experience. Ultimately, my hands-on experiences with the DaVinci robot, personalized medicine, and AI-driven diagnostics have not only fueled my curiosity but also inspired me to become a physician who embraces technological advancements. I envision a future where I can contribute to the development and implementation of AI solutions that enhance patient care, whether through improving surgical precision, advancing early disease detection, or creating innovative healthcare applications. By combining my passion for medicine with the limitless possibilities of AI, I hope to play a role in shaping a smarter, more compassionate healthcare system.

There are moments in life that shape who we are and define our purpose. For me, one of the most significant influences has been my grandfather, a man of strength, resilience, and unwavering dedication. He served in the U.S. Navy aboard the battleship USS Boston, dedicating years of his life to protecting our country. His commitment to duty and his willingness to endure hardships for the sake of others left an indelible mark on me, shaping the values I hold dear today. My grandfather was more than just a veteran; he was a guiding force in my life. He carried himself with honor, instilling in me the importance of discipline, hard work, and selflessness. However, his greatest battle was not fought at sea but against cancer, a disease that ultimately took him from us. Witnessing his struggle and the toll it took on him and our family was both heartbreaking and eye-opening. It was during this time that I realized the true power of medicine—not just as a means to heal but as a way to bring comfort, hope, and dignity to those in need. His battle with cancer ignited a passion within me to pursue a career in medicine, specifically as a cardiothoracic surgeon. I want to dedicate my life to helping others fight their own battles, just as my grandfather fought his. The same discipline and perseverance he demonstrated throughout his life are qualities I strive to embody in my journey toward becoming a doctor. To further my medical aspirations, I participated in the Stanford Medical Internship, a transformative experience that solidified my passion for surgery. During this program, I had the opportunity to learn essential medical skills, including how to suture wounds with precision, effectively communicate with patients, and gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge technology. One of the most thrilling aspects of the internship was working with the DaVinci medical surgical system, an advanced robotic platform that allows surgeons to perform minimally invasive procedures with enhanced precision. Being able to interact with such groundbreaking technology reinforced my desire to become a surgeon and exposed me to the future of medicine. Additionally, the internship provided invaluable exposure to the realities of patient care. I worked alongside medical professionals who emphasized the importance of empathy and clear communication in a healthcare setting. Engaging with patients and understanding their concerns helped me develop the interpersonal skills necessary for a successful career in medicine. The experience also deepened my appreciation for the immense responsibility that comes with being a surgeon and the profound impact that skilled, compassionate medical care can have on individuals and their families. My grandfather’s legacy continues to inspire me every day. His service to our country and his courage in the face of adversity remind me that true strength lies in dedication to others. As I move forward in my academic and professional journey, I carry his memory with me, using it as motivation to push through challenges and work toward my goal of making a difference in the lives of patients and their families. This scholarship with help me achieve my medical dreams and serve people in need.

The day my grandfather passed away from cancer was one of the most difficult moments of my life. He was not only a loving grandfather but also a source of wisdom, strength, and unwavering support. Watching him battle cancer was heartbreaking, as the disease slowly took away his energy, his laughter, and eventually his life. The pain of losing him left me feeling lost, confused, and filled with questions. I couldn’t understand why someone so kind and full of life had to suffer. However, through this difficult time, I found solace in my faith, and it was during this period of grief that I decided to get baptized. This experience not only deepened my relationship with God but also solidified my passion for medicine and my desire to help others. In the weeks leading up to my grandfather’s passing, I spent countless hours calling him on the phone to check in on him to offer comfort as much as I could. During this time however he started to close off from me and my family. One day when me and my family decided to surprise him to visit him, my grandfather immediately lashed out at us. He began yelling and telling us to get out of his house. Watching him act like this broke my heart and deeply saddened me. After my grandfather’s death, I struggled with feelings of sadness and anger. I questioned why such a painful event had to happen and felt an overwhelming sense of helplessness. However, in my search for answers, I turned to my faith. I began reading the Bible more, praying more frequently, and surrounding myself with a supportive church community. It was through this journey that I came to understand that while I could not control life or death, I could control how I responded to adversity. I found peace in the belief that my grandfather was no longer in pain and that he was in a better place. My faith became a source of strength rather than a source of questions, and I made the life-changing decision to get baptized. Getting baptized was a defining moment in my life. It was a symbol of my commitment to trusting God’s plan, even in the face of hardship. Through this spiritual renewal, I learned to let go of my anger and channel my grief into something meaningful. Instead of feeling powerless, I felt motivated to make a difference. I wanted to dedicate my life to helping others, just as the doctors and nurses had done for my grandfather. His battle with cancer inspired me to pursue a career in medicine, not only to treat patients but to provide them and their families with the same compassion and care that had touched my heart. Losing my grandfather was one of the most painful experiences of my life, but it also shaped me into the person I am today. It strengthened my faith, deepened my resilience, and gave me a sense of purpose. As I move forward in my journey toward becoming a physician, I carry his memory with me, using it as a source of motivation to serve others and make a lasting impact in the world of medicine.

I was raised in the environment of going to church. Growing up christianity was emphasized as an important aspect of my life. At a young age, I was taught the importance of service. As I transitioned into high school, my family and I decided to take on the responsibilities of conducting church services. Every Sunday I wake up with a smile on my face to come to church. To me, the church is a meaningful place to serve and bring the stress from school or other struggles that I have weekly. I volunteer to contribute to the creation of lesson plans, bringing toys for children to play with, and making fun and engaging icebreakers to play at the beginning of our services like playing card games and charades. The time and effort that I put into the church makes me happy because I know I am bringing God’s people closer together and putting a smile on their faces. Jesus emphasizes the teaching of being a servant of others. The bible motivates me to serve out of the goodness of my heart. This important value in my life inspires me to work as a servant in the medical field. Becoming a physician is not only about gaining knowledge and expertise but also pledging myself to give the highest level of care to a patient. Being able to discover and learn about the complexities of human anatomy and watch families be reunited is what drives my ambition to become a physician. My passion for cardiothoracic surgery stems from my fascination with the heart and its critical role in sustaining life. The heart is a symbol of strength and resilience, and being able to perform life-saving procedures on this vital organ is something that inspires me. I want to be in the operating room, working alongside a team of skilled professionals, making precise incisions, and restoring hope to patients and their families. The thought of being able to extend and improve the quality of someone's life through surgical intervention is what solidifies my determination to pursue this field. Beyond the technical and scientific aspects of surgery, I am drawn to the human connection that comes with being a physician. Just as I find joy in serving my church community, I want to bring comfort and reassurance to my patients in their most vulnerable moments. Whether it is holding a patient’s hand before surgery, explaining a diagnosis to a concerned family, or witnessing the joy of a successful recovery, I want to be a source of strength and compassion for those in need. Ultimately, my faith, my passion for service, and my love for science all intertwine in my pursuit of becoming a cardiothoracic surgeon. I view this career as more than just a profession—it is a calling that allows me to serve others, heal the sick, and make a meaningful impact on the lives of those around me. With unwavering dedication, I am committed to the lifelong journey of learning, growing, and making a difference in the field of medicine.