My name is Adin Bregman, and I am a rising college freshman with a strong passion for biology and medicine. Ever since I can remember, I have been fascinated by the natural world and how living organisms function. This curiosity led me to explore the field of biology deeply during high school, where I maintained a 4.5 GPA. My interest in science, particularly biology, has driven me to pursue a major in this field as I embark on my college journey. Growing up having Hispanic heritage and as a White individual, has made me keenly aware of the disparities in healthcare access and quality that affect diverse communities. This awareness has fueled my desire to make a meaningful impact in the field of medicine. I believe that by understanding the biological sciences, I can contribute to bridging the gap in healthcare and improving the lives of people from all backgrounds. My goal is to become a dentist or a medical professional who not only provides excellent care but also advocates for equitable healthcare. I am particularly interested in the field of dentistry because I believe that improving a person's smile can enhance their self-image, giving them confidence. A healthy smile can be transformative, affecting how individuals perceive themselves and interact with the world. By focusing on dental health, I hope to empower people to feel confident and proud of their smiles. In addition to my academic interests, my personal experiences have shaped my professional goals. Growing up in a multicultural family, I have witnessed firsthand the challenges that language barriers and cultural differences can pose in healthcare settings. This has motivated me to become a healthcare provider who is culturally competent and able to communicate effectively with patients from diverse backgrounds. I want to ensure that everyone receives the care and respect they deserve, regardless of their race or ethnicity. As I prepare to attend college at one of the esteemed institutions I have been accepted to, I am eager to immerse myself in rigorous coursework and research opportunities that will deepen my understanding of biology and medicine. I am committed to working hard and seizing every opportunity to learn and grow in my field. I am confident that my dedication and passion for science will enable me to achieve my goals and make a positive impact in the world. In summary, my choice to pursue a career in biology and medicine is driven by my passion for science, my desire to address healthcare disparities, and my commitment to cultural competence. I am excited about the journey ahead and look forward to contributing to a healthier, more equitable society while helping individuals gain confidence through their smiles.

Throughout my high school years, I was fortunate to have several great teachers, but one who truly stands out is my AP biology teacher, Ms. Jeffry. Her passion for science and her dedication to her students profoundly influenced not only my academic interests but also how I approach life. Mrs. Jeffry was the kind of teacher who made biology come alive. Her classes were never just about memorizing facts; they were about understanding the world around us and seeing the beauty in how everything is interconnected. She had a way of explaining complex concepts in a simple, relatable manner, which made learning exciting and engaging. Her enthusiasm was infectious, and she always encouraged us to ask questions and explore beyond the textbook. One of the most significant lessons I learned from Mrs. Jaffry was the importance of curiosity and perseverance. I remember a particular project on ecosystems where she challenged us to observe and document the biodiversity in our local park. At first, the task seemed overwhelming, but Mrs. Jaffry guided us to break it down into smaller steps, teaching us to approach problems methodically. She emphasized that science is not just about finding the right answers but about asking the right questions and being persistent in seeking solutions. Her influence extended beyond the classroom. Mrs. Jaffry took the time to get to know her students, understanding our strengths and weaknesses. She encouraged me to pursue my interest in biology and even introduced me to opportunities like science fairs and clubs, where I could explore my passion further. Her belief in my potential gave me the confidence to aim higher and strive for excellence. Moreover, Mrs. Jaffry taught me the value of resilience. She shared her own experiences of overcoming challenges as a minority woman in the field of science, reminding us that setbacks are part of the journey and that perseverance is key to success. Her stories inspired me to embrace my own identity and to be proud of my heritage, motivating me to work hard and pursue my dreams in the STEM field. As I prepare to enter college as a freshman, majoring in biology with aspirations in science, dentistry, or medicine, I carry with me the lessons I learned from Mrs. Jaffry. Her influence has shaped my academic path and instilled in me a lifelong love of learning and a desire to make a difference in the world. In conclusion, Mrs. Jaffry did not just teach me biology; she taught me how to approach life with curiosity, resilience, and passion. Her impact on my life has been profound, and I am grateful for the guidance and inspiration she provided. I hope to carry forward her spirit of inquiry and dedication as I continue my journey in STEM, aspiring to make a positive impact in my community and beyond.

Growing up, sports have been a big part of my life, and they have shaped me in ways I never expected. Being involved in athletics taught me discipline, teamwork, and how to handle both success and failure. As I prepare to enter college as a biology major with aspirations in medicine or dentistry, I can see how my athletic journey has prepared me for the challenges ahead and how it can help me make a positive impact on others. Throughout high school, I was part of the varsity lacrosse team and had the honor of being the team captain. This role taught me invaluable leadership skills. As captain, I learned how to motivate my teammates, communicate effectively, and lead by example. These skills are crucial in any field, but especially in STEM, where leadership can drive innovation and collaboration. I hope to bring these qualities to my studies and future career, inspiring others to work together towards common goals. Being part of a team also taught me the importance of collaboration. On the lacrosse field, every player's role is crucial, and success depends on how well we work together. This lesson is directly applicable to the scientific community, where collaboration and sharing ideas are key to innovation and problem-solving. I hope to bring this team spirit to my studies and future career in medicine or dentistry, where working with others can lead to better patient outcomes and advancements in the field. Additionally, coaching and training kids in lacrosse fundamentals taught me that a "one size fits all" approach is not a tenable strategy. Each kid is unique and requires personalized instruction. Understanding what resonates with different kids sets you up for success. This experience will be invaluable in my future career, where personalized care and understanding each patient's needs are critical. I want to use this understanding to make a difference in others' lives, whether through direct patient care or community outreach programs that promote health and wellness through physical activity. Sports have also taught me how to handle setbacks. There were times when we lost important games, and it was tough to stay positive. However, these experiences taught me resilience. I learned to analyze what went wrong, make adjustments, and come back stronger. In STEM, setbacks are inevitable, whether it is a failed experiment or a challenging concept. My athletic background has prepared me to face these challenges head-on and not give up when things get tough. Ultimately, my athletic journey has been about more than just playing a game. It has been about developing skills and qualities that will help me succeed in college and my future career. By sharing these lessons with others, I hope to inspire them to pursue their goals with the same passion and determination that I have learned through sports.

Growing up, sports have been a big part of my life, and they have shaped me in ways I never expected. Being involved in athletics taught me discipline, teamwork, and how to handle both success and failure. As I prepare to enter college as a biology major with aspirations in medicine or dentistry, I can see how my athletic journey has prepared me for the challenges ahead and how it can help me make a positive impact on others. Throughout high school, I was part of the varsity lacrosse team and had the honor of being the team captain. This role taught me invaluable leadership skills. As captain, I learned how to motivate my teammates, communicate effectively, and lead by example. These skills are crucial in any field, but especially in STEM, where leadership can drive innovation and collaboration. I hope to bring these qualities to my studies and future career, inspiring others to work together towards common goals. Being part of a team also taught me the importance of collaboration. On the lacrosse field, every player's role is crucial, and success depends on how well we work together. This lesson is directly applicable to the scientific community, where collaboration and sharing ideas are key to innovation and problem-solving. I hope to bring this team spirit to my studies and future career in medicine or dentistry, where working with others can lead to better patient outcomes and advancements in the field. Additionally, coaching and training kids in lacrosse fundamentals taught me that a "one size fits all" approach is not a tenable strategy. Each kid is unique and requires personalized instruction. Understanding what resonates with different kids sets you up for success. This experience will be invaluable in my future career, where personalized care and understanding each patient's needs are critical. I want to use this understanding to make a difference in others' lives, whether through direct patient care or community outreach programs that promote health and wellness through physical activity. Sports have also taught me how to handle setbacks. There were times when we lost important games, and it was tough to stay positive. However, these experiences taught me resilience. I learned to analyze what went wrong, make adjustments, and come back stronger. In STEM, setbacks are inevitable, whether it is a failed experiment or a challenging concept. My athletic background has prepared me to face these challenges head-on and not give up when things get tough. Ultimately, my athletic journey has been about more than just playing a game. It has been about developing skills and qualities that will help me succeed in college and my future career. By sharing these lessons with others, I hope to inspire them to pursue their goals with the same passion and determination that I have learned through sports.

Growing up, sports have been a big part of my life, and they have shaped me in ways I never expected. Being involved in athletics taught me discipline, teamwork, and how to handle both success and failure. As I prepare to enter college as a biology major with aspirations in medicine or dentistry, I can see how my athletic journey has prepared me for the challenges ahead and how it can help me make a positive impact on others. Throughout high school, I was part of the varsity lacrosse team and had the honor of being the team captain. This role taught me invaluable leadership skills. As captain, I learned how to motivate my teammates, communicate effectively, and lead by example. These skills are crucial in any field, but especially in STEM, where leadership can drive innovation and collaboration. I hope to bring these qualities to my studies and future career, inspiring others to work together towards common goals. Being part of a team also taught me the importance of collaboration. On the lacrosse field, every player's role is crucial, and success depends on how well we work together. This lesson is directly applicable to the scientific community, where collaboration and sharing ideas are key to innovation and problem-solving. I hope to bring this team spirit to my studies and future career in medicine or dentistry, where working with others can lead to better patient outcomes and advancements in the field. Additionally, coaching and training kids in lacrosse fundamentals taught me that a "one size fits all" approach is not a tenable strategy. Each kid is unique and requires personalized instruction. Understanding what resonates with different kids sets you up for success. This experience will be invaluable in my future career, where personalized care and understanding each patient's needs are critical. I want to use this understanding to make a difference in others' lives, whether through direct patient care or community outreach programs that promote health and wellness through physical activity. Sports have also taught me how to handle setbacks. There were times when we lost important games, and it was tough to stay positive. However, these experiences taught me resilience. I learned to analyze what went wrong, make adjustments, and come back stronger. In STEM, setbacks are inevitable, whether it is a failed experiment or a challenging concept. My athletic background has prepared me to face these challenges head-on and not give up when things get tough. Ultimately, my athletic journey has been about more than just playing a game. It has been about developing skills and qualities that will help me succeed in college and my future career. By sharing these lessons with others, I hope to inspire them to pursue their goals with the same passion and determination that I have learned through sports.

Justice, to me, means fairness and equality for everyone, regardless of their background, race, or beliefs. It is about ensuring that everyone has the same opportunities and is treated with respect and dignity. Growing up as a Hispanic and White individual, I have seen firsthand the disparities that exist in society. These experiences have shaped my understanding of justice and fueled my passion for contributing to a more just society. As a rising college freshman, I plan to major in Biology and pursue a career in Dentistry or Medicine. I believe that access to healthcare is a fundamental aspect of justice. Everyone deserves the right to receive proper medical care, regardless of their socioeconomic status. Unfortunately, not everyone has this access, and this is where I see myself making a difference. In my future career, I hope to work in underserved communities where healthcare is not easily accessible. By providing dental or medical care to those who need it most, I aim to reduce the health disparities that exist today. I want to ensure that people from all walks of life can receive the care they deserve. This is my way of contributing to a more just society. Additionally, being inducted into the National Honor Society has highlighted the importance of education in achieving justice. Education is a powerful tool for empowerment and change. By educating myself and others about the importance of health and wellness, I hope to empower individuals to take control of their health. This includes spreading awareness about preventive care and healthy lifestyle choices. Being captain of the varsity lacrosse team taught me valuable leadership skills and the importance of fairness and equity. Leading a team requires understanding and respecting each player's unique strengths and perspectives. This experience has shown me how to create an environment where everyone feels valued and heard, which is essential for fostering justice. Coaching youth in lacrosse has also shown me the impact of mentorship. It is rewarding to see how guidance and support can change the lives of those who look up to you. Mentorship is a way to inspire and empower the next generation, teaching them the values of fairness and equality. Throughout my high school years, I have maintained a 4.5 GPA, which reflects my dedication to learning and growing. I have always believed that knowledge is power, and I am committed to using my education to make a positive impact in the world. By continuing my education at North Carolina State University, I will gain the skills and knowledge necessary to contribute to a more just society. In conclusion, justice means creating a world where everyone is treated with fairness and equality. Through my future career in healthcare, my commitment to education, and my experiences in leadership and mentorship, I hope to contribute to a more just society. By working towards this goal, I believe we can create a better, more equitable world for all.

My name is Adin Bregman, and I am a rising college freshman with plans to major in Biology, focusing on Dentistry or Medicine. I am honored to apply for the Kalia D. Davis Memorial Scholarship, as it represents an opportunity to pursue my dream of becoming a healthcare professional. I have always been fascinated by the sciences and am eager to begin my studies at one of the universities I have been accepted to, such as the University of North Carolina, North Carolina State, Virginia Tech, or Clemson University. Growing up in a multicultural household as a Hispanic and White individual, I have learned the value of diversity and the importance of understanding different perspectives. My family has always emphasized the importance of education, and I have worked hard to maintain a 4.5 GPA throughout high school. This dedication has prepared me academically for the challenges of college and instilled in me a strong work ethic and a commitment to achieving my goals. Beyond academics, I have a passion for playing lacrosse. Being selected as the captain of my varsity high school team was an honor, and it taught me the importance of leadership and teamwork. I also enjoy coaching kids in lacrosse, which has allowed me to share my love for the sport and help young players develop their skills. This experience has reinforced my passion for helping people, whether on the field or in their everyday lives. The field of healthcare, particularly Dentistry and Medicine, has always been close to my heart because of its potential to make a real difference in people's lives. I believe that helping people achieve a healthy smile can significantly improve their self-image and overall well-being. Everyone deserves access to quality healthcare, and I am determined to contribute to this field by providing compassionate and effective care to those in need. Receiving the Kalia D. Davis Memorial Scholarship would be a tremendous help in my journey. It would ease the financial burden of college tuition, allowing me to focus more on my studies and less on the stress of managing expenses. This scholarship would also enable me to take advantage of extracurricular opportunities, such as research projects and volunteer work, which are vital for gaining practical experience and enhancing my education. In addition to my academic pursuits, I am committed to giving back to my community. Throughout high school, I have volunteered at a local dentist office and helped prepare meals at The Ronald McDonald House in Charlotte to help comfort families that had a child staying at Atrium Health Levine Children's Hospital. The community service projects deepened my understanding of the challenges faced by underserved populations. These experiences have reinforced my desire to pursue a career in healthcare and motivated me to continue serving others in the future. In conclusion, the Kalia D. Davis Memorial Scholarship would support my educational goals and empower me to make a meaningful impact in healthcare. I am grateful for the opportunity to apply for this scholarship, and I am excited about the possibility of contributing to a healthier and more equitable world. Thank you for considering my application.

Refereeing lacrosse has been a significant part of my life, and one memory stands out as my favorite. It was a hot summer day in North Carolina, and I was officiating a youth lacrosse game. The game was intense, with both teams tied in the final minutes. As the referee, I was responsible for maintaining the flow and fairness of the game. When I made a crucial call that led to the winning goal, I saw the joy and excitement on the players' faces. This moment reminded me why I love the sport and the role I play in it. Being a referee has strengthened my character in many ways. It has taught me the importance of fairness and integrity. Making split-second decisions under pressure has improved my confidence and decision-making skills. As a referee, I have to be impartial and ensure that the rules are followed, which has helped me develop a strong sense of justice and responsibility. These qualities have not only made me a better referee but also a better person. Participating in sports as a referee has also taught me the value of communication and teamwork. I have learned how to communicate effectively with players, coaches, and other referees to ensure that the game runs smoothly. This experience has improved my ability to work with others, a skill that is crucial in any field, especially in medicine, which I plan to pursue in college. My passion for lacrosse extends beyond playing and refereeing. I started playing when I was eight years old and quickly fell in love with the sport. This passion led me to excel on the field and eventually become the team captain of my varsity lacrosse team in high school. I also founded a business to train kids on the fundamentals needed to excel on and off the field. Understanding the rules of the game is crucial, and refereeing has allowed me to deepen my knowledge and share it with others. As I look to the future, I plan to continue participating in refereeing. I believe that my experiences as a referee will complement my studies in biology and medicine. The skills I have developed—such as decision-making, communication, and integrity—are essential in the medical field. I am excited to bring the lessons I have learned from refereeing into my future career. In conclusion, refereeing has been a vital part of my life, shaping my character and preparing me for the future. It has taught me valuable lessons that I will carry with me as I pursue my studies in medicine. I am grateful for the opportunities that refereeing has given me and look forward to continuing this journey.

My name is Adin Bregman, and I am in my senior year of high school with a passion for pursuing a degree in STEM. I have chosen to major in Biology with the goal of becoming a dentist. My interest in dentistry stems from a desire to help people and make a positive impact on their lives. As a person of Hispanic and White descent, I believe that my background and experiences will allow me to bring a unique perspective to the field of dentistry. Growing up, I always enjoyed my science classes. I found the human body fascinating, and I was especially interested in how different parts of the body work together. This curiosity led me to explore various STEM fields, and I eventually discovered my passion for dentistry. Dentistry combines my love for science with my desire to help people improve their health and well-being. I have always been driven by the idea of making a difference in people's lives. As a dentist, I will have the opportunity to do just that. Oral health is a crucial aspect of overall health, and I want to help people maintain healthy smiles. I am particularly interested in working with underserved communities, where access to dental care is often limited. As a person of color, I understand the importance of representation in healthcare. I want to be a role model for other young people of color who are interested in pursuing careers in STEM. In addition to my passion for dentistry, I am also committed to promoting diversity and inclusion in the STEM field. I believe that diverse perspectives lead to better solutions and innovations. Having Hispanic and Jewish heritage, I have experienced the benefits of diversity firsthand. I want to use my experiences to advocate for greater representation of people of color in STEM. Throughout my academic journey, I have maintained a high level of academic excellence, as evidenced by my 4.5 high school GPA. I am confident that my strong work ethic and determination will help me succeed in college and beyond. I am excited to attend one of the prestigious universities I have been applied to, such as the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Virginia Tech, Auburn University, North Carolina State University, the University of Georgia, or Clemson University. In conclusion, I have chosen to pursue a degree in STEM because of my passion for science and my desire to help people. As a future dentist, I hope to make a positive impact on the lives of my patients, especially those in underserved communities. As a person with Hispanic heritage, I am committed to promoting diversity and inclusion in the STEM field. I believe that my background and experiences will allow me to bring a unique perspective to the field of dentistry, and I am excited to contribute to the advancement of oral health and overall well-being. Thank you for considering my application for the Innovators of Color in STEM Scholarship.

My name is Adin Bregman, and I am a senior in high school with a 4.5 GPA. I plan on studying Biology in college to go on to a career in dentistry or orthodontics. I have always been fascinated by the human body and how it works, and I believe that a career in dentistry will allow me to make a tangible difference in people's lives. I am particularly interested in orthodontics because it combines science and artistry to create beautiful, healthy smiles. In addition to my academic interests, I have already started my own business training young kids in lacrosse. This experience has taught me valuable lessons in leadership, responsibility, and entrepreneurship. I have always been passionate about lacrosse, and I enjoy sharing that passion with the next generation of players. Running my own business has also given me a sense of independence and confidence that I believe will serve me well in my future career. I have planned an entrepreneurial career because I value the freedom and creativity that comes with being your own boss. I enjoy the challenge of building something from the ground up and seeing it grow and succeed. I believe that my background in science and my experience as a business owner will provide a strong foundation for a successful career in dentistry or orthodontics. I believe I will be successful in my business endeavors because I am dedicated, hardworking, and passionate about what I do. I am not afraid of failure, and I am always willing to learn from my mistakes. I am also a strong communicator and team player, which I believe are essential qualities for any successful entrepreneur. I am committed to providing high-quality care to my future patients and to continuously improving my skills and knowledge. To me, a successful life is one where I am able to make a positive impact on the world around me. I want to be able to look back on my life and know that I made a difference in the lives of others. Whether it is through my work as a dentist or orthodontist, or through my business training young lacrosse players, I want to leave a lasting legacy of kindness, compassion, and excellence. In conclusion, I am excited to pursue a career in dentistry or orthodontics because it combines my love of science with my desire to help others. I believe that my entrepreneurial spirit and my experience running my own business will provide a strong foundation for my future success. I am committed to working hard, learning from my experiences, and making a positive impact on the world around me. Thank you for considering my application for the Jessie Koci Future Entrepreneurs Scholarship.

Dentistry is my chosen field of interest because I am drawn to improving people's self-image while helping them maintain good health. I also have an affinity for the field of science, and I know that in order to enter the field of dentistry, you need to excel in the sciences. My passion for dentistry started when I realized how much a healthy smile can boost someone's confidence and overall well-being. I want to be the person who helps others feel good about themselves through their smiles. As a Hispanic and White man, I have seen the importance of representation in healthcare. Many people in many communities do not have access to quality dental care. I want to be a dentist who can bridge this gap and provide much-needed services to underserved populations. I believe that everyone deserves to have a healthy smile, and I want to make that a reality for as many people as possible. When I enter college, I plan to major in Biology to build a strong foundation in the sciences. My high school GPA of 4.5 reflects my dedication to my studies, and I am excited to bring that same level of commitment to my college education. I have always been fascinated by how the human body works, and studying Biology will give me the knowledge I need to succeed in dental school. My goal is to open a dental clinic that focuses on providing affordable and high-quality care to low-income families. I want to create a welcoming environment where patients feel comfortable and valued. I believe that by offering free dental check-ups and educational workshops, I can make a significant impact on my community's oral health. In addition to my academic pursuits, I am also motivated by personal experiences. Growing up, I saw family members struggle with dental issues due to a lack of access to care. This inspired me to pursue a career where I can make a difference in people's lives. I am determined to achieve my professional passion by working hard, staying focused, and never losing sight of why I chose this path. In conclusion, my love for science and my desire to improve people's lives through dentistry drive me to pursue this field. I am committed to making a positive impact on my community and helping others achieve healthy, confident smiles. With the support of the John Young 'Pursue Your Passion' Scholarship, I am confident that I can achieve my goals and make a lasting difference in the world of dentistry.