Since I was young, I have seen what it means to live with illness. My mom suffers from frequent seizures and has been diagnosed with brain tumors throughout the years. Supporting her has been a difficult journey, but it has shaped me in countless ways. Every time I was at a hospital with her, and I saw how doctors or nurses helped her, I told myself that I would do the same for others in the future. This is why I am so passionate about medicine, and I am committed to making a positive impact through healthcare, especially in underserved communities. My university offers a program for students on the pre-medical track to intern at a hospital in Costa Rica. The moment I learned about this program, I was astonished. Costa Rica reminds me of my own home, Puerto Rico, and of the lack of medical advancements or personnel. I know what it is like to live in a place where resources are not available, and I want to support those who are going through such difficult hardships. That is why the trip is so important to me, because I want to serve with heart, learn, and grow in a place that feels familiar yet entirely new. This will be my first time doing service abroad, and I am beyond excited. I want to learn about global healthcare systems and understand how different communities adapt and survive with limited resources. I want to take full advantage of this opportunity through shadowing medical professionals, interacting with patients, and carrying every experience with me. Being in Costa Rica will push me out of my comfort zone and force me to think from another perspective. It will challenge the way I see medicine, reinforcing that empathy and human connection are key to medicine. Through this trip, I hope to grow not just as a student but as a future physician. Exposure to different healthcare settings will teach me humility and compassion. I will see the resilience in the faces of patients who are constantly fighting for their health, and I will carry those stories with me forever. These experiences will shape how I care for my future patients. I want to be a doctor who listens, one who understands that healing starts with empathy. I also hope that this trip inspires far more than solely personal growth. I plan to share what I learn with others, whether by launching community health projects or eventually contributing to research on neurological care in underserved areas. With my mom’s condition constantly on my mind, I would love to one day explore how neurological care can be made more effective and accessible in low-income regions. Beyond the impact on my future career, this trip would teach me lessons that will help me give back to my campus, community, and eventually, my patients. I want to uplift others with the wisdom and perspective I gain, always keeping in mind that healthcare should be a right, not a privilege. However, I can’t take part in this life-changing experience without help. The trip costs $2,450, an amount that is out of reach for my family. As a low-income student, financial limitations have always stood between me and student opportunities, but I will never let that stop me from dreaming big. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to attend the trip and continue building the future I have always envisioned, one where I serve others as a physician with everything I have, no matter where they come from.

It was midnight when I committed my suicide attempt. The darkness felt personal, like a ghost lurking inside my mind. Depression had become a silent shadow, making me feel like I was existing but not alive. I had always been the “perfect student,” the one who aced all her exams and served as a role model. But beneath that mask of perfection, I was struggling to breathe, overwhelmed by the pain that nobody could see. My journey with mental health started long before that night. It all began when my family and I moved from Puerto Rico to Texas after Hurricane Maria. I lost my home and the community that had given me strength and comfort, and suddenly, I was thrown into an unfamiliar world. I struggled with English and with understanding the system here in the States. Even when I started school, everything felt foreign and unwelcoming. We were only four of us, my two parents and my little sister. My dad stayed back in Puerto Rico because of his painting company, to help people who had their homes destroyed by the hurricane. At the same time, my mother suffered an accident, one that changed my life forever. Suddenly, I had the responsibility of taking care of both my little sister and injured mom, putting a lot of responsibility on me, given the fact that I was just 12 years old. These circumstances showed me the true meaning of perseverance and hardship. A couple of years later, once my family and I started to adapt, the pandemic hit, and everything intensified. Remote learning made it harder for me to support my sister academically, since she is dyslexic and a special education student. The lack of resources felt like another step back in the journey of adapting to the United States. I fought anxiety, depression, and physical health issues in silence, because I had to be strong as the pillar of my family. That same year, I lost my best friend and a close family member—devastating losses that pushed me closer to the edge. I felt trapped, with no space to breathe or process. After my depression got worse, I started developing dangerous self-harming habits. As soon as I noticed these patterns, I had to be strong and do what was best for my family, which was seeking help. I was admitted to a mental hospital for support. But what I experienced there was nothing but further trauma. During my stay there, I was sexually assaulted by one of the workers. This event completely shattered me. I felt vulnerable to the point that I couldn’t speak out. I was scared and lonely. These experiences led to years of battling panic attacks and silence. Once the COVID-19 pandemic was over, I had to return to school. But I came back as another, unrecognizable girl. I was often called the “sick girl” because my panic attacks kept leading to multiple visits to the school nurse, making it noticeable to everyone in the school. Still, somehow, I survived. I dedicated myself to seeking therapy and professional help because I only wanted what was best for me and for my family. Over the years, I was able to heal little by little. I ended up moving schools, seeking a fresh start. During this time, I once again transformed into a completely different girl. Although my experiences and stories were harsh, I decided not to let that tear me down, because I do have dreams to accomplish and a life to live. That strength found its voice in my high school’s Be Nice Mental Health Program, where I eventually became Co-President. I was able to find the courage to openly share my story, normalizing mental health struggles and advocating for change—the change I once wished someone would help me achieve. I wanted others to see that help is available and that no one should ever suffer in silence like I did. With my heart put into this desire, I was able to guide other students who shared similar stories as mine into also putting their part into healing, whether through therapy or other initiatives of self-care. Those moments reinforced the purpose I found in my pain: that I could turn my experiences into an initiative to help others. My perspective on mental health and trauma has been forever changed. I believe larger systems need to do better because mental health care should be easily accessible, even for those with a lack of resources. I recognize that no one should feel ashamed to seek help. As a matter of fact, I believe that those who can recognize what they went through and talk about it are the strongest individuals, because they show resilience. These lessons have also shaped my relationships. I have become a role model for my younger sister. I have shown her that setbacks are not the end, and that perseverance is powerful. I carry empathy for others because I know what it is like to suffer in silence and to find strength when everything feels empty or broken. I have learned that hardships are part of growth, a key to succeeding in life. These experiences have driven my future ambitions. As I transition from high school to college, I want to become a pre-medical student who will rise as a doctor who listens to both the physical and mental needs of my patients. I believe my experiences, combined with science, can help create healthcare environments that truly address trauma and mental health. This scholarship would acknowledge my journey and support my path toward turning adversity into advocacy.

I find deep fulfillment in my passion for serving the community. More than just being a humble role model, I ensure that everyone feels heard and valued, making them feel truly important. My experiences have shaped me into a more empathetic individual, driven to help and support others daily. True selflessness transcends individual acts; it's about advocating for broader change that uplifts all. A profound moment that shaped my understanding of selflessness occurred during my mother's numerous hospital visits. I vividly recall a nurse who spent an extra hour listening to my mother's worries. This compassionate act ignited a spark in me; the heart of medicine is not only in diagnosing and treating illnesses but in embracing every patient with empathy and understanding. Witnessing this care inspired me to embody selflessness in my interactions. Volunteering at a local hospital further solidified my passion for selflessness. Every time I entered those doors, I felt a sense of belonging, knowing I would help someone feel heard and supported. The bright smiles on patients' faces when I entered their rooms brought me joy. Occasionally, patients would ask why I was there, questioning whether it was for personal gain or to enhance my resume. I would simply say that I find peace in brightening someone's day. Through these moments, I learned that selflessness means being present for others during their darkest times and offering comfort without expectation. Additionally, beyond my acts of kindness, I share my personal story to inspire and motivate those facing significant challenges who might find hope through me. I desire not only to serve the community but to build meaningful relationships and help those who need it most. I aspire to inspire others to promote positivity and the welfare of others. As a Be Nice ambassador, I work on a daily basis to promote mental health wellness within my community. I am a true inspiration for other people facing significant challenges. I do this because as a suicide survivor who has encountered a newfound passion and purpose, I find the need for always being a source of positivity for every single person I encounter. I am the self-portrait of selflessness because I find myself putting others as a main priority, making the world a better place while helping countless people through my motivation and initiative. Ultimately, I've concluded that my purpose in life is not just in individual acts of service but in spreading my passion for caring for others in my community. As a Be Nice ambassador, I strive to embody selflessness by promoting mental health awareness and fostering a culture of kindness. However, my commitment to kindness extends beyond this role. One initiative that truly reflects this commitment is the "Lots of Love" project, which I created to gather thousands of letters filled with hope and encouragement for patients in hospitals. By bringing together people from all walks of life to share their support, I witnessed how we could create something greater than ourselves—a wave of compassion that reached those who needed it most. Through my project, I learned that true selflessness involves thinking beyond myself and finding ways to uplift others. Each letter served as a reminder that even small gestures can make a significant impact on someone's life. As I continue my journey, I feel inspired to seek out new opportunities for kindness and connection. I believe that when we come together to support one another, we can create lasting change in our communities. By sharing my experiences and encouraging others to embrace kindness, I can help foster an environment where everyone feels valued and supported.

As I sit here, staring at a blank page, I can't help but contemplate the transformation that I've undergone since my suicide attempt. At 17, I find myself looking back on a journey that's been both really tough and incredibly reframing. My attempt wasn't the end of my story; instead, it became a turning point in my life, pushing me towards resilience and growth. A better mental health has been the key to my success, helping me expand my horizons and be of positive impact to my community. Dealing with mental health issues has been challenging, but it's shaped me into a stronger, more understanding person. I hadn't always been soft-spoken, but after being brutally bullied, I became a very silent individual, and that led me to stop advocating for myself. I struggled with panic attacks that made even simple conversations feel impossible. Things turned even harder when my family moved to the United States, I felt like I didn't have a sense of belonging, the new surroundings and language forced my insecurities. But this isn't just about overcoming anxiety; it's about growing up and facing life's challenges head-on. One of the things that has gifted me hope is being of help to others. Ever since I was little I've grown passionate about positively impacting people's lives, it gives me a sense of fulfillment. My experiences haven't diminished my passion for helping others. If anything, they've made me more determined to make a difference. I see my future in medicine not just as a career choice, but as a way to provide the kind of care and understanding that I once needed so badly. The journey through these mental health struggles has been a teacher, feeding me a sense of empathy for others facing similar challenges. I've come to understand the importance of feeling truly seen and heard, especially within healthcare settings. This insight has become the motivation behind my ambition to become a medical professional who can offer not just treatment, but genuine connection and hope to those in need. Since dedicating myself to improving my mental health, I've witnessed a remarkable transformation in various aspects of my life. Academically, I've embraced leadership roles in school clubs and taken on the responsibility of being a student ambassador. Through the support of my therapist, best friend, and parents, I've even achieved perfect scores in my classes. This academic success has been both a result and an impulsor for my continued personal growth. My social life has also gone through a significant positive shift. I've become more discerning about the people I allow into my life, recognizing the importance of surrounding myself with supportive and uplifting people. This mindset has empowered me to take control of my life, no longer allowing others to dictate my choices or self-worth. The positive changes I've experienced extend far beyond the school and personal relationships. I've become increasingly involved in my community, taking on leadership roles at both the local hospital and my church. These experiences have provided me with invaluable opportunities to help others while simultaneously working on my own personal development. The combination of professional help and a strong support system has been crucial in my progress, both in terms of mental health and overall personal growth. As I look towards the future, I see a world brimming with possibilities. My goal is to harness the power of my experiences to create meaningful, positive change in the lives of others. I want to spread hope, showing those who are struggling that even in the darkest of times, there is light at the end of the tunnel. My journey has taught me the importance of resilience and perseverance. I've learned that setbacks, no matter how daunting they may seem, can be overcome with the right mindset and support. This realization has fed my determination to succeed and to use my story as a source of inspiration for others. The process of overcoming my mental health challenges has also opened my eyes to the broader issues surrounding mental health in our society. I've become acutely aware of the stigma that often accompanies mental illness and the barriers that many face in seeking help. This awareness has strengthened my resolve to be an advocate for mental health awareness and accessibility in my future career in medicine. As I continue to grow and evolve, I find myself increasingly drawn to the idea of combining my passion for medicine with my personal experiences in mental health. I envision a career that allows me to bridge the gap between physical and mental healthcare, providing care that addresses both mental and physical health. My journey has also taught me the value of self-care and the importance of maintaining a balanced lifestyle. I've learned to prioritize my mental and emotional well-being, incorporating practices such as journaling, better eating habits, physical activity, and creative expression into my daily routine. These habits have not only contributed to my ongoing recovery but have also enhanced my overall quality of life. I'm filled with gratitude for the support I've received and the strength I've discovered within myself. While the path hasn't been easy, each challenge has contributed to shaping the person I am today, someone who is more compassionate, resilient, and determined to make a positive impact on the world. In conclusion, my mental health journey has been of help for personal growth and has redefined my purpose in life. It has given me a deep sense of empathy, resilience, and determination. Through my experiences, I've come to view the world as a place filled with both immense challenges and incredible potential for healing and positive change. As I move forward, I carry with me the lessons learned from my past, using them as a foundation for a future dedicated to helping others and making a meaningful difference in the field of medicine and mental health care.

I have always been keen to learn more about mathematics. It is the only subject that I truly enjoy, a big take-away of it is its challenging nature. Regardless of how challenging it might be, I always enjoy the process of solving a mathematics problem. For me, math isn’t just a collection of complex formulas or equations, but rather a variety of puzzles that are yet to be solved. Math challenges my mind and ignites my curiosity, helping with self-growth and faster problem-solving techniques. It often feels like a maze, with multiple paths awaiting to be explored. It is fascinating how there are multiple ways to get to a single answer, and even more paths are to be discovered. The satisfaction of putting all the pieces together is very gratifying. The process of solving mathematical problems is a journey that I consistently find both enjoyable and rewarding. The outcome of an answer comes with bigger benefits than just personal satisfaction, mathematics is one of the most important aspects when it comes to economics, which is a daily subject among people. With math, we are able to connect all of the puzzle pieces that need to be put together in order to have a steady life. The field of mathematics is constantly evolving, with new theories, algorithms, and applications being developed. This innovative aspect of math appeals to me, as it allows people to explore and contribute to human developments. These developments allow us to ease our day-to-day lives, even improve our health, and lifespawns. The book “Being Mortal” by Atul Gawande provides a compelling example of how mathematical inquiries and technological advancements have positively impacted human life. This intersection of mathematics, technology, and healthcare undergoes the impact that mathematical thinking can have on humanity’s most pressing challenges. In conclusion, my passion for mathematics stems from its ability to challenge, drive and inspire progress. It is not just a subject to be studied, but an opportunity to shape our understanding of the world and our ability to improve it in infinite ways. As I continue to expand my understanding in mathematics, I am excited to see the change that it makes on my life.

As a young woman of Caribbean descent, my journey has been one of transformation, resilience, and an unwavering passion for medicine. Born in Puerto Rico, my early years were steeped in vibrant culture and close-knit family bonds. However, my life took an unexpected turn when my family moved to Texas when I was 11, setting me on a path that would profoundly shape my beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations. The transition to Texas presented significant challenges, including a language barrier and cultural differences. However, the resilience ingrained in Caribbean culture became my greatest asset. I quickly learned English, not just for myself, but to serve as a bridge for my family. This experience honed my communication skills and instilled in me a deep appreciation for diversity and cultural exchange. When faced with adversity - my father staying behind in Puerto Rico and my mother's injury - I stepped up to care for my family. This early responsibility fostered a sense of duty and compassion that continues to drive me today. It also sparked my interest in healthcare, as I witnessed firsthand the impact that medical professionals can have on a family's well-being. My experience with mental health has been a defining aspect of my journey. The stress of adapting to a new country, coupled with the weight of family responsibilities, led to struggles with anxiety and depression. At my lowest point, I contemplated escape, even attempting suicide. However, even in my darkest moments, my passion for helping others remained a guiding light. This challenging period became a catalyst for personal growth and a deeper understanding of the importance of healthcare. Through my own healing process, I discovered the critical role that medical professionals play in not just physical health, but also in supporting overall well-being. It reinforced my commitment to pursuing a career in medicine. My passion for becoming a doctor has only grown stronger through my experiences. I volunteer at Memorial Hermann Greater Heights hospital, where I've had the opportunity to observe healthcare professionals in action and directly impact patients' lives. One of my proudest achievements is the "Lots of Love" project I initiated, where I mobilized my school to write letters to hospitalized patients, bringing them comfort and hope during difficult times. These experiences have solidified my career aspirations to become a doctor. While I haven't yet decided on a specific specialization, I'm drawn to fields that allow me to make a significant impact on patients' lives. My goal is to provide compassionate, culturally sensitive care, particularly to underserved communities. I believe that my unique perspective as someone who has navigated cultural transitions and personal health challenges will allow me to connect with and support patients from diverse backgrounds. I aim to bring empathy and understanding to my practice, considering not just the physical aspects of health, but also the cultural and emotional factors that influence well-being. As I move forward in my educational and professional journey towards becoming a doctor, I carry with me the spirit of my Caribbean roots, the resilience forged through adversity, and an unwavering commitment to providing excellent medical care. By combining my personal experiences with professional expertise, I hope to create ripples of positive change in the lives of my future patients. Through my work as a future doctor, I aspire to create a world where quality healthcare is accessible to all, and patients feel seen and heard. Like a butterfly emerging from its chrysalis, I've undergone a transformation through my experiences, and I'm now ready to soar in the medical field, bringing hope and healing to those in need.