In reflecting upon a person who has profoundly influenced my life, I am drawn to the remarkable journey and unwavering determination of my father. His steadfast dedication and resilience have not only inspired me but also shaped the trajectory of my aspirations for the future. My father's life story serves as a testament to the power of resilience in the face of adversity. Escaping the turmoil of war-torn Lebanon, he embarked on a perilous journey to America in search of a brighter future and education. The challenges he encountered were profound, marked by financial hardships that often left him without even the basic necessities. Yet, his unyielding spirit prevailed, and he juggled multiple jobs to both survive and fund his education. The indomitable spirit my father exhibited during his journey has left an indelible mark on me. His relentless pursuit of a better life against all odds is a poignant lesson in perseverance. I witnessed his willingness to make sacrifices for the sake of his family's well-being, often at the expense of his own health. He taught me that success is born not only from talent but also from unwavering determination and an unshakable work ethic. What resonates most with me is my father's dedication to his family and his work. His daily routine involves waking up before dawn, enduring a three-hour commute, and embracing long work hours. His selflessness in providing for our family's needs is a testament to his unwavering commitment. His journey has shown me that true success is not merely defined by individual accomplishments but by the positive impact one can make on the lives of those around them. As I embark on the next phase of my life, I am driven by the example my father set. His legacy fuels my ambition to become a successful doctor, with a deep-seated desire to repay his sacrifices. Like him, I am prepared to surmount any challenges that lie ahead, armed with the conviction that adversity can be transformed into opportunity through perseverance and hard work. This scholarship opportunity holds immense significance for me, and I am profoundly grateful for the support it represents. If honored with this scholarship, I commit to utilizing the funds to advance my education and pursue my dreams with unwavering determination, just as my father did when he embarked on his journey to America. In conclusion, my father's life journey and the lessons he imparted have been the cornerstone of my values and aspirations. His unwavering dedication, resilience in the face of adversity, and commitment to family and work have profoundly influenced my perspective on success. With his example as my guide, I am resolute in my pursuit of becoming a doctor and in making a positive impact on the lives of others, just as he has on mine.

As a Muslim immigrant with a deep commitment to positively impacting underserved communities, my journey is shaped by a fusion of personal experiences, cultural values, and a burning desire to uplift those in need. I am steadfast in my pursuit of medical education, seeing it as a powerful tool to address healthcare disparities in underserved areas across California. Hailing from a background where resilience, empathy, and community support are paramount, I am driven by my cultural roots to serve as a beacon of hope for those facing adversity. My immigrant background has provided me with a unique perspective on the challenges faced by marginalized populations. Through firsthand experiences, I have witnessed the gaps in healthcare accessibility and quality that disproportionately affect underserved communities. These encounters have fueled my determination to become a doctor and bring about positive change where it is most needed. My academic journey has been underpinned by a relentless pursuit of knowledge and excellence. I am dedicated to harnessing the power of education to equip myself with the skills and knowledge necessary to address complex medical issues in underserved areas. Pursuing medical studies not only aligns with my aspirations but also with the Islamic principles of compassion, social justice, and service to humanity. These principles are deeply intertwined with my desire to create a lasting impact in underserved regions, where access to quality healthcare is often limited. With its diverse population and glaring healthcare disparities, California offers a fertile ground for my ambitions. Underserved neighborhoods in the state are plagued by inadequate medical facilities, limited resources, and reduced access to preventive care. I aim to bridge these gaps, channeling my medical education towards initiatives that improve healthcare access, raise awareness about preventive measures, and cultivate a healthier future for the community. My plans involve a multi-faceted approach to healthcare transformation. Beyond providing clinical care, I aspire to engage in community outreach programs that educate individuals about healthy lifestyles, disease prevention, and the importance of regular check-ups. These initiatives would be culturally sensitive and linguistically tailored, considering the diverse backgrounds of the communities I seek to serve. The collaboration will be the cornerstone of my efforts. Partnering with local organizations, community leaders, and religious institutions, I intend to establish a network of support that can address not only medical needs but also the socio-economic factors that impact health outcomes. By building trust and establishing solid relationships, I believe we can create sustainable improvements in healthcare access and overall well-being. In conclusion, my journey as a Muslim immigrant, aspiring doctor, and advocate for underserved communities is one fueled by a profound sense of purpose. By leveraging my medical education and cultural background, I am committed to making a transformative impact on healthcare disparities in California. Through culturally sensitive initiatives, community engagement, and collaboration, I hope to contribute to a brighter and healthier future for all, embodying the principles of compassion and service that lie at the heart of my beliefs.

As a first-generation Muslim immigrant, my family's journey has been a powerful force in shaping both my worldview and my career aspirations. Their resilience, values, and the unwavering spirit to give back to the community have kindled my desire to become a doctor and make a meaningful impact. My family's story is one of courage and perseverance. Leaving behind their familiar homeland, they embarked on a journey to a new country, seeking better opportunities and the promise of a brighter future. Their struggles and triumphs in adapting to a new culture while holding onto their deeply rooted values have inspired me to embrace diversity and view challenges as stepping stones to growth. Witnessing their resilience has instilled in me the belief that with determination and the right support, one can overcome any obstacle. Central to our family's identity is our Islamic faith. The teachings of Islam have molded our values of compassion, empathy, and service to others. As a first-generation immigrant, I've learned to find strength in my faith, turning to it during times of uncertainty. This faith has given me a unique perspective on the world—one that values unity and seeks to bridge differences. It has also fueled my desire to give back to the community that embraced us, just as my family was embraced when they arrived in this foreign land. Becoming a doctor has been my dream since I was young, and my family's journey has fortified that dream. The challenges they faced accessing quality healthcare in their early days as immigrants illuminated the disparities that exist in our society. These experiences have ignited my passion to become a doctor and contribute to improving healthcare accessibility, particularly in underserved communities. I am driven by the belief that healthcare is a fundamental human right, regardless of one's background or circumstances. My family's emphasis on education has been a cornerstone of our values. Through their sacrifices, they have imparted upon me the importance of continuous learning and personal growth. My journey towards becoming a doctor involves not only pursuing medical expertise but also developing a deep understanding of cultural sensitivity and inclusivity. I aim to provide care that is holistic, respectful, and tailored to the diverse backgrounds and beliefs of my patients. In this way, I hope to bridge the gap between different communities and promote harmony through healthcare. Furthermore, the spirit of giving back that my family exemplifies has led me to envision a career that extends beyond the confines of a clinic. I aspire to engage in medical outreach programs, both domestically and internationally, to provide medical care to those who lack access. I want to collaborate with local communities to create sustainable healthcare solutions that empower individuals to take charge of their well-being. In conclusion, my family's narrative as first-generation Muslim immigrants has profoundly influenced my beliefs and career aspirations. Their resilience, values rooted in faith, and dedication to service have ignited my passion to become a doctor and make a lasting impact on society. Their journey serves as a reminder that while our paths may be different, our shared humanity unites us in a collective quest for a better world. With my family's unwavering support and the lessons they've imparted, I am steadfastly committed to pursuing a career that not only fulfills my dream but also honors the legacy of those who came before me.

Throughout my life, I have encountered numerous challenges that have shaped me into the individual I am today. As a determined Biology major, with aspirations of becoming a doctor, my journey has been marked by both academic pursuits and personal growth. As a Muslim immigrant, I have faced unique adversities that have tested my resilience and ultimately led me to embrace selflessness and unwavering determination in my pursuit of serving others. As a young immigrant arriving in a foreign land, I was met with the initial struggles of acclimatizing to a new culture, language, and educational system. Navigating these unfamiliar waters presented hurdles that seemed insurmountable at times. However, I quickly realized that perseverance and an unyielding spirit were key to overcoming these challenges. My journey to assimilate into the community was both humbling and enlightening, as it fostered a deep appreciation for diversity and acceptance. Being a Muslim in a foreign country has also posed unique challenges, particularly in the face of misconceptions and prejudices that occasionally surfaced. Nonetheless, these adversities served as opportunities for growth. By actively engaging in open dialogue, I was able to foster understanding and bridge cultural gaps. Through these experiences, I developed empathy and a genuine commitment to promoting unity and compassion among individuals of diverse backgrounds. As I progressed through my academic journey in pursuit of my Biology major, I encountered the pressures of excelling academically while simultaneously dealing with cultural expectations and customary responsibilities. Yet, rather than allowing these challenges to hinder my progress, I embraced them as opportunities for personal growth. I honed my time management skills, striking a balance between my studies and my commitment to my community and family. Despite facing adversities, I discovered that my passion for serving others was unwavering. Volunteering at local community centers and participating in medical outreach programs became a source of joy and fulfillment. Witnessing the impact of healthcare disparities within immigrant communities inspired me to become a doctor and address these disparities head-on, thereby giving back to the community that had embraced me. Each hurdle I encountered allowed me to develop resilience and an unwavering commitment to my goals. Over time, I grew into a selfless individual, dedicated to utilizing my knowledge and skills for the betterment of others. My experiences have taught me the importance of perseverance, empathy, and cultural sensitivity, qualities I am determined to carry forward into my future career as a doctor. By embracing my identity as a Muslim immigrant, I have grown to appreciate the strength that arises from diversity. My unique background has equipped me with the ability to connect with individuals from various walks of life, fostering a deeper level of trust and understanding. As I prepare to embark on my journey to medical school, I am confident that my diverse experiences will not only enhance my academic endeavors but also allow me to provide more comprehensive and culturally sensitive care to patients. In conclusion, my major in Biology is a testament to my dedication to becoming a doctor and serving my community. As a Muslim immigrant, my journey has been shaped by a series of adversities that have ultimately transformed me into a selfless, hardworking, and compassionate individual. I am eager to embrace the challenges that lie ahead, confident that my experiences will continue to fuel my passion for medicine and my commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of others. With the support of this scholarship, I am one step closer to achieving my dreams and fulfilling my mission of giving back to the community that has embraced and nurtured me.

As a student-athlete with a passionate commitment to helping others through my future career as a doctor, I firmly believe that mental health is a cornerstone of overall well-being. Nurturing and prioritizing my mental wellness has not only strengthened my resolve to succeed as a student-athlete but has also equipped me with the empathy and resilience needed to make a lasting impact on the lives of others. I understand that mental health is crucial because it directly influences every aspect of our lives. As a student-athlete, I encounter unique challenges, including academic responsibilities, training demands, and competition pressure. The interplay of these factors can lead to stress, anxiety, and burnout if mental health is not given due attention. I recognize that my mental wellness directly affects my performance in academics and sports, as well as my ability to empathize with and care for others in my future medical profession. Maintaining my mental wellness is of utmost importance as a student-athlete with a strong commitment to becoming a doctor and helping others. To achieve a balanced and fulfilling life, I have embraced various practices that foster my overall well-being. Effective time management is essential in balancing my rigorous academic and athletic commitments. By creating a structured schedule that includes time for academics, training, personal interests, and relaxation, I reduce stress and prevent feelings of being overwhelmed. Self-care is a priority in my daily routine as a student-athlete. I recognize the significance of physical and mental well-being for optimal performance in both academics and sports. Regular exercise, proper nutrition, and sufficient rest are integral components of my self-care routine, ensuring I can thrive in all aspects of my life. I understand the value of seeking support when needed. As a student-athlete committed to helping others, I recognize the importance of confiding in friends, family, or mentors when facing challenges. Sharing my feelings and concerns provides emotional relief and strengthens the connections that are vital to maintaining mental wellness. Goal setting is a driving force in my journey as a student-athlete. I set realistic short-term and long-term goals in academics, athletics, and personal life. Celebrating small victories along the way reinforces my belief in my capabilities and motivates me to persevere in the face of challenges. Engaging in community service and volunteering activities brings immense fulfillment to my life. Contributing to the well-being of others reinforces the values of compassion and empathy that I aim to embody in my future career as a doctor. Community engagement enriches my perspective and fuels my passion for helping others. In conclusion, I believe that maintaining my mental health is paramount as a student-athlete with aspirations of becoming a doctor to help others. Prioritizing mental wellness has strengthened my determination to excel in academics and athletics while equipping me with the empathy and resilience needed to care for others effectively. By practicing self-care, mindfulness, and seeking support, I maintain a healthy balance between my commitments, ensuring I am emotionally equipped to fulfill my future career aspirations. Receiving this scholarship would be an incredible opportunity to support my academic and athletic pursuits, allowing me to focus more on nurturing my mental wellness while pursuing my dream of becoming a doctor. As a future healthcare professional, I am committed to promoting mental health awareness and prioritizing the emotional well-being of my patients. With the financial support of this scholarship, I will continue my journey of personal growth, resilience, and empathy, laying the foundation for a successful and impactful career in medicine.

I have chosen to pursue a major in biology at UCSD because I am deeply passionate about understanding the intricacies of life and how living organisms function. Biology has always fascinated me, and I believe that it provides a strong foundation for a future career in medicine. By studying biology, I can gain a comprehensive understanding of the human body and its complexities, which is crucial for becoming a competent and compassionate doctor. The university's commitment to excellence aligns perfectly with my aspirations of contributing to medical advancements and providing high-quality healthcare to people in need. My strengths lie in my ability to manage time effectively and my unwavering dedication to excelling in all aspects of my life. By efficiently organizing my schedule, I have been able to balance my academic pursuits with extracurricular activities and community engagement. Time management has not only allowed me to achieve academic success but has also granted me the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to my community. Moreover, my commitment to becoming the best at whatever I undertake has driven me to continuously seek self-improvement. Whether it's in academics, sports, or volunteer work, I strive to challenge myself and push beyond my limits. However, like any individual, I have my weaknesses. One of my weaknesses is that I tend to be overly detail-oriented, which sometimes results in spending too much time on the specifics of a project or task. While attention to detail can be advantageous in certain situations, I have learned that it is essential to strike a balance between precision and efficiency to maximize productivity and achieve broader goals. My name is Zachary Elhusseiny, and I believe I deserve this scholarship because of my unwavering commitment to my academic and career goals. As a first-generation college student and an aspiring doctor, I am driven by a genuine passion for helping people and making a positive impact on their lives. My journey as a Muslim has taught me the importance of compassion, service, and perseverance, and I aim to apply these values to my future career in medicine. Receiving this scholarship would alleviate financial constraints and allow me to focus more on my studies and community involvement. By investing in my education, the scholarship would not only empower me to pursue my dream of becoming a doctor but also enable me to give back to my community and contribute to the well-being of others. My favorite song is "Glad You Came" by The Wanted. This song resonates with me because it celebrates the joy of living in the moment and cherishing the present. As a Muslim, I consider my greatest achievement to be my dedication to embodying the principles of my faith in all aspects of my life. Islam emphasizes compassion, kindness, and serving others, which has been the driving force behind my pursuit of a career in medicine. By becoming a doctor, I hope to emulate the teachings of Islam by providing care, support, and healing to those in need, irrespective of their background or circumstances. In conclusion, my decision to pursue a major in biology at UCSD is driven by a passion for understanding life and a desire to become a doctor who can make a positive impact on people's lives. My strengths in time management and dedication, along with my weaknesses in being overly detail-oriented, have shaped me into a resilient and adaptable individual. As a first-generation college student and a person of faith, I believe I deserve this scholarship to support my academic journey and enable me to fulfill my dream of becoming a compassionate and competent healthcare professional.

As a first-generation Muslim immigrant to the USA, my life has been a tapestry of diverse experiences, filled with challenges and triumphs. Navigating a new country with different customs, languages, and cultures posed numerous obstacles, but it also presented me with the opportunity to forge a unique identity and overcome adversity. One of the most significant challenges I faced as an immigrant was the language barrier. Arriving in the USA with limited English proficiency, I struggled to communicate effectively with peers and teachers. This obstacle hindered my academic progress and left me feeling isolated. However, instead of allowing these difficulties to deter me, I embraced them as opportunities for growth. Through sheer determination and countless hours of studying, I gradually improved my language skills. I sought support from teachers and fellow students, immersing myself in the language and culture to better integrate into the community. Overcoming the language barrier instilled in me a sense of resilience and adaptability that would prove invaluable in facing future challenges. Another hurdle I encountered was the clash of cultural norms. As a Muslim, my values and beliefs sometimes conflicted with prevailing cultural practices in the USA. Maintaining my identity and religious practices in an environment that was not always accommodating required courage and determination. I faced misconceptions and stereotypes about Islam, but I chose to respond with patience and education. By engaging in open and respectful conversations, I fostered understanding and dismantled misconceptions, contributing to a more inclusive and diverse community. Financial constraints were also a prominent obstacle in my journey. As an immigrant family adjusting to a new country, we faced financial instability and uncertainty. This motivated me to seek opportunities for personal and academic growth. Despite the challenges, I maintained a strong commitment to my education and explored various part-time job opportunities to support myself and alleviate the financial burden on my family. These experiences taught me the value of hard work, resourcefulness, and financial responsibility. Throughout my journey, my Muslim faith served as a source of strength and guidance. Prayer and reflection provided solace during difficult times, reminding me of my purpose and motivating me to persevere. My faith emphasized the importance of patience, gratitude, and resilience, which became essential attributes in overcoming adversity and embracing my identity as a first-generation Muslim immigrant. Embracing my heritage while adapting to a new culture has been a transformative experience. My unique background has given me a broader perspective on life, fostering empathy and understanding for those who face challenges in their own journeys. I have become an advocate for inclusivity and diversity, using my experiences to bridge cultural divides and build connections with individuals from different backgrounds. In conclusion, my life as a first-generation Muslim immigrant to the USA has been marked by adversity and growth. Overcoming language barriers, cultural clashes, and financial constraints has shaped me into a resilient, compassionate, and open-minded individual. As I continue to embrace my identity while contributing to my community, I am committed to advocating for a world that embraces diversity and celebrates the richness of our differences. My journey as a first-generation Muslim immigrant has not only empowered me to thrive beyond borders but has also kindled in me a profound desire to be a catalyst for positive change in the lives of others.

As a Muslim, my identity has played a significant role in shaping my academic and career aspirations. Rooted in values of compassion, service to others, and a strong sense of community, my Muslim identity has been a guiding force in my pursuit of a career in medicine. Becoming a doctor is not merely a personal ambition; it is a way for me to live out the principles of my faith and make a meaningful impact on people's lives. My journey toward a career in medicine began with a deep desire to combine my passion for science with my Islamic values of empathy and healing. In Islam, the act of helping others, especially those in need, is highly valued. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the importance of providing care and support to the sick and vulnerable members of society. This aspect of my faith has instilled in me a profound sense of responsibility to serve others and alleviate suffering. Through my academic pursuits and future career as a doctor, I aim to embody these teachings and contribute to the well-being of individuals and communities. The path to becoming a doctor requires dedication, perseverance, and a high-quality education. As a student with limited financial resources, pursuing my dream of becoming a doctor has presented financial challenges. This is where receiving the scholarship becomes integral to my aspirations. The financial support provided by this scholarship would not only relieve the burden of educational expenses but also grant me the freedom to focus wholeheartedly on my studies and personal growth. With a medical degree, I envision myself working in underserved communities, both locally and globally. My Muslim identity instills in me a sense of duty to serve those in need, irrespective of their background or circumstances. Islamic teachings emphasize the importance of social justice and equity, and I see medicine as a powerful means to address health disparities and promote equitable healthcare access. In addition to the medical knowledge I will gain, I also intend to incorporate the values of cultural sensitivity and respect for diversity in my practice. My Muslim identity encourages me to approach patients with compassion, understanding, and humility, recognizing the unique backgrounds and experiences that shape their lives. By fostering a sense of trust and rapport with my patients, I aim to provide personalized care that respects their beliefs and values. Moreover, my faith reinforces the importance of lifelong learning and self-improvement. Receiving the scholarship will not only support my academic journey but also enable me to continue engaging in research, professional development, and community service throughout my career as a doctor. In conclusion, my Muslim identity has been a driving force behind my academic and career goals in medicine. Embracing the principles of compassion, service, and community, I am determined to become a doctor who advocates for equitable healthcare and strives to make a difference in the lives of others. The scholarship would be a significant step towards fulfilling my dream, providing the necessary financial support to pursue my education, and empowering me to embrace my Muslim identity in the service of humanity. As a future doctor, I am committed to applying the values of my faith in my practice and making a positive impact on the world, one patient at a time.

Throughout my everyday life, I have sought to embody the essence of leadership, drawing inspiration from my experiences as the captain of the water polo and swim team, as well as my role as an older brother dedicated to enhancing my community. As the water polo and swim team captain, I quickly realized that leadership is not about commanding but about inspiring and uniting a group of individuals toward a shared vision. Leading by example, I encouraged my teammates to push beyond their limits, fostering an environment of trust and camaraderie. During challenging times, I assumed responsibility and demonstrated resilience, instilling a sense of determination that transcended beyond the pool. By encouraging open communication and valuing each team member's contributions, I created a space where everyone felt heard and valued, promoting a collaborative and cohesive team dynamic. One of the crucial aspects of leadership is empathy, and being an older brother has allowed me to understand and embody this quality. Observing my younger siblings' struggles and aspirations, I have honed my ability to listen actively and offer guidance without judgment. Recognizing that leadership is not just about guiding peers, but also about nurturing and supporting younger community members, I actively participate in mentorship programs. By dedicating time and effort to empowering the younger generation, I have witnessed the profound impact that a caring and supportive role model can have on their development. Beyond my immediate circles, I have also sought opportunities to extend my leadership qualities to improve the wider community. Engaging in local volunteer initiatives and community service projects, I have come to understand the power of collective action and the importance of addressing social issues together. Whether it be organizing charity events, participating in neighborhood clean-ups, or advocating for environmental sustainability, my leadership approach has been centered on collaboration, inclusivity, and a genuine desire to make a positive difference. A true leader also acknowledges the importance of continuous personal growth and learning. Throughout my journey, I have sought out mentorship from experienced leaders and taken part in workshops and leadership seminars. These experiences have enabled me to refine my communication skills, enhance my problem-solving abilities, and strengthen my emotional intelligence. As I reflect on my journey as a leader, I have come to understand that the essence of leadership lies in selflessness. It is not about seeking personal glory or dominance but about empowering others to flourish. My everyday life as a leader is an ongoing commitment to embodying values that transcend beyond sports and family – it is about becoming an agent of positive change in the wider world. In conclusion, my experience as the captain of the water polo and swim team, and my role as an older brother committed to community improvement, have shaped me into a leader who leads with empathy, fosters collaboration and is dedicated to serving others. By empowering my teammates, guiding my siblings, and contributing to the community, I strive to exemplify leadership in my everyday life. I believe that leadership is not a destination but a continuous journey of growth. I am committed to evolving as a leader to make a lasting, positive impact on those around me and the world at large.

Being involved in aquatics for many years has allowed me to not only grow as an individual but contribute to my community. In my freshman year of high school, I was eager to join the aquatics program, which was still growing. The existing water polo team only had three people, which was insufficient to participate in games. I actively recruited members to join the team. I took the initiative to tackle other issues, such as a lack of resources. I created a booster club with the help of some parents to raise money so our team could afford to buy suits, balls, and other equipment. By the end of the year, the water polo team had grown substantially. Coming back to school as a junior, with an outstanding foundation, for the first time in several years, we became a threat to the other teams in our league and made it to CIF. Not only did I feel like I had established myself as an athlete, but contributed to helping my team find our place. Going into senior year, my role as a captain was increasingly valuable now that our water polo team had a new generation of players who needed guidance. To be a good player and role model, I had to work just as hard on improving myself as I did on assisting my teammates. This required me to give every practice my all and maintain my commitment no matter how difficult things might be. Beyond my team, I wanted to continue creating an impact within aquatics and my community. The summer after junior year, I started working as a water safety instructor and I was able to guide a variety of students. I recall an incident that stuck with me - one student, in particular, was facing insecurities regarding his weight and his concerned mother sought my guidance. The student believed in several misconceptions about nutrition, which impeded his growth and overall health. Acting as a role model, I was responsible for educating him about proper health practices and providing him with advice that I wish I had known when I was his age. I plan to major in Biology and eventually enter the medical field. I have always loved science subjects at school but never thought that I wanted to become a doctor until Covid-19 hit. During Covid-19, I had the opportunity to volunteer in Lebanon to help the victims of one of the most devastating explosions ever. That blast ripped through my home country, which was already facing civil unrest, economic hardship, covid-19 outbreak, and a heavy burden from the refugee crisis. That experience made me learn more about my background and the importance of community. Growing up hearing those countless stories of injustice, war, and suffering made me appreciate the person I am today; but experiencing these stories in person sparked my passion to help those in need. I will continue to demonstrate acts of selflessness and empathy. We are a middle-class family and my dad has to take special treatment that is not covered by insurance. Unfortunately, FAFSA does not take into consideration Medical Expenses, and I came to realize that middle-class families do not get financial aid from the government. Receiving this scholarship will help me spend more time studying, learning, and playing my sport, by working fewer hours.

On August 4, 2020, a massive explosion in the port of Beirut ripped through Lebanon’s capital, killing and injuring thousands. That blast ripped through my home country, which was already facing civil unrest, economic hardship, covid outbreak and a heavy burden from the refugee crisis. Being a second-generation immigrant with two parents that were born and raised in Lebanon, I felt the obligation to do something to help the victims of the massive explosion. I packed my bags and traveled to Lebanon to stay a couple of weeks before school started. During my stay, I walked down the streets with thousands of people to remove the rubble. I traipsed through metal window frames, doors, glass, and broken furniture up and down the blood-soaked stairs where bodies had been pulled. I helped distribute food to displaced people and those in need. Seeing so much destruction caused me to lose hope in the situation, but after I saw the energy and determination of the community to help one another, I became even more motivated to help. Although my trip was short, I learned a lot about my background and the importance of community. Growing up hearing those countless stories of injustice, war, and suffering made me appreciate the person I am today but experiencing these stories in person sparked my passion to contribute to my community. My parents flew to Los Angeles years ago to start a family and provide a better quality of life for their future kids. They gave me a reason to never give up and always fight for what I believe in. If my parents were able to do it with nobody’s help, so can I with a little of their help. In my freshman year of high school, I was eager to join the aquatics program, which was still growing. The existing water polo team only had three people, which was insufficient to participate in games. Despite this circumstance, I actively started recruiting members to join the team. On top of establishing an entire team, I took the initiative to tackle other issues, such as a lack of resources. I created a booster club with the help of some parents to raise money so our team could afford to buy suits, balls, and other equipment. By the end of the year, the water polo team had grown substantially. We are a middle-class family and my dad has to take special treatment that is not covered by insurance. Unfortunately, FAFSA does not take into consideration Medical Expenses, and I came to realize that middle-class families do not get financial aid from the government. Receiving this scholarship will help me spend more time studying, learning, and playing my sport, by working fewer hours.

On August 4, 2020, a massive explosion in the port of Beirut ripped through Lebanon’s capital, killing and injuring thousands. That blast ripped through my home country, which was already facing civil unrest, economic hardship, covid outbreak and a heavy burden from the refugee crisis. Being a second-generation immigrant with two parents that were born and raised in Lebanon, I felt the obligation to do something to help the victims of the massive explosion. I packed my bags and traveled to Lebanon to stay a couple of weeks before school started. During my stay, I walked down the streets with thousands of people to remove the rubble. I traipsed through metal window frames, doors, glass, and broken furniture up and down the blood-soaked stairs where bodies had been pulled. Seeing so much destruction caused me to lose hope in the situation, but after I saw the energy and determination of the community helping one another, I became even more motivated to help. Although my trip was short, I learned a lot about my background and the importance of community. Growing up hearing those countless stories of injustice, war, and suffering made me appreciate the person I am today but experiencing these stories in person sparked my passion to contribute to my community. My parents flew to Los Angeles years ago to start a family and provide a better quality of life for their future kids. They gave me a reason to never give up and always fight for what I believe in. If my parents were able to do it with nobody’s help, so can I with a little of their help. My decision to seek a medical field major is driven by values instilled in me by my faith and my family. In the summer, I work as a Water safety instructor at our community pool. One time I had a parent approach me and ask me to help her son. He was facing insecurities regarding his weight and his concerned mother sought my guidance. The student believed in several misconceptions about nutrition and exercise, which impeded his growth and overall health. I educated him about proper health practices and provided him with the advice I wish I had known when I was his age. I talked with the student and his mother after class about dietary changes and exercise habits I would consider and provided them with my grocery list. I also created an exercise routine for the student based on factors like his age and the equipment he has access to. I tracked the student's progress regularly by checking up on him before and after class and being available for him to ask questions. After he remained consistent with this new routine for a couple of months, I was informed that he had been seeing results and felt physically and mentally healthier. I was honored to be allowed to improve the well-being of both the student and the mother and see the real impact I had made. The way that made me feel is one of the reasons I want to become a doctor.