Success is a deeply personal concept, shaped by one’s experiences, values, and aspirations. For me, success is not merely an end goal but a continuous journey characterized by growth, impact, and fulfillment. It is a blend of academic achievement, personal development, and making a meaningful difference in the lives of others. This holistic view of success has guided my path and will continue to do so as I strive to contribute to the field of neurodegenerative diseases and advocate for environmental and social justice. My academic journey has been driven by a passion for understanding and addressing complex challenges in neuroscience and public health. Currently, I am pursuing an MD/PhD with a focus on neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Alzheimer’s disease. Success, in this context, means achieving a deep understanding of these conditions and contributing to innovative research that can lead to effective treatments. My work in the Saikawa Lab at Emory University, where I am involved in projects addressing the health impacts of environmental and social vulnerabilities, represents a significant step toward this goal. The research aims to build resilience in communities affected by climate change, aligning with my broader vision of integrating scientific inquiry with community advocacy. Success for me also entails making a tangible impact through my research. My ambition is to develop novel methods for detecting and understanding cerebral microbleeds and cortical superficial siderosis in mouse models, which are crucial for advancing our knowledge of cerebral amyloid angiopathy and Alzheimer’s disease. Achieving this involves not only technical proficiency and rigorous research but also a commitment to translating findings into practical solutions. By pushing the boundaries of current scientific knowledge and contributing to groundbreaking research, I hope to make a meaningful difference in the field of neuroscience. Success is also about personal growth and the ability to adapt and overcome challenges. My experiences, from participating in a summer program at Jackson Laboratory to working on high-impact literature reviews, have been pivotal in shaping my approach to success. These opportunities have taught me resilience, adaptability, and the importance of continuous learning. Each experience has contributed to my growth, not just as a researcher but as an individual committed to making a positive impact in the world. Moreover, I believe that success is deeply intertwined with community engagement and advocacy. My involvement in the "Building Resilience in Atlanta" project highlights my dedication to addressing environmental and social challenges. This project focuses on mapping health impacts of cumulative environmental exposures and social vulnerability, which is essential for fostering resilience in vulnerable communities. By working on such initiatives, I aim to bridge the gap between scientific research and community needs, ensuring that my work benefits those who are most affected by these issues. Receiving this scholarship would be instrumental in helping me achieve my vision of success. It would provide crucial support for my educational and research endeavors, allowing me to focus more on my studies and projects without the added burden of financial constraints. This opportunity would enable me to access advanced resources, participate in cutting-edge research, and collaborate with leading experts in the field, all of which are essential for my growth and success as a researcher and advocate. Additionally, this scholarship would affirm the value of my commitment to interdisciplinary approaches and community-focused research. It would not only validate my efforts but also inspire me to continue pursuing excellence in both academic and practical domains. The financial support would allow me to invest in resources and tools necessary for my research, attend conferences and workshops, and engage in professional development activities that are crucial for my career advancement. As a previous scholarship winner, I have made significant strides in my academic and professional journey. My role in the Saikawa Lab and my involvement in various research projects reflect my progress and commitment to my goals. This opportunity has already played a crucial role in my development, and continued support would further enhance my ability to contribute to the field of neurodegenerative diseases and community health. Looking ahead, I am determined to leverage my education and experiences to drive impactful research and advocate for vulnerable communities. Success for me means not only achieving personal and professional milestones but also using my knowledge and skills to address pressing global challenges. By advancing our understanding of neurodegenerative diseases and promoting resilience in communities, I hope to leave a lasting legacy of positive change. Success for me is a multifaceted journey that encompasses academic excellence, personal growth, and community impact. This scholarship represents a vital opportunity to further my aspirations and continue making meaningful contributions in my field. I am grateful for the chance to apply and am committed to achieving success in ways that honor the values of perseverance, impact, and continuous learning.

Living with social anxiety has been one of the most challenging aspects of my life, impacting my daily experiences and shaping my academic and personal goals in profound ways. Diagnosed with moderate anxiety during my senior year of high school, I found that the overwhelming feelings of unease and self-doubt extended beyond simple nervousness. My social anxiety, particularly its effects on my interactions and performance, has influenced every facet of my educational journey and personal growth. Before my diagnosis, my struggles with anxiety were masked by my drive and commitment to excel. I was meticulous, driven by a need to achieve perfection, which often led to an overwhelming sense of pressure and self-criticism. This constant striving for excellence was not only exhausting but also made it difficult for me to engage meaningfully with others. The fear of being judged or making mistakes in social situations often left me feeling isolated, despite my best efforts to succeed academically and professionally. The revelation that my experiences were part of a diagnosable condition was both a relief and a challenge. Understanding that my feelings of anxiety were not just personal failings but part of a recognized condition allowed me to begin addressing them more effectively. However, this diagnosis also highlighted the extent to which my anxiety had shaped my experiences and hindered my ability to fully engage in both academic and social settings. One of the most profound impacts of my social anxiety has been on my interactions with others. The fear of judgment and embarrassment often made it difficult for me to participate in group activities or voice my thoughts in discussions. This was particularly challenging during my time at Jackson Laboratory, where I had the opportunity to engage with a diverse group of students and professionals. Despite the incredible learning experience, I found myself grappling with feelings of inadequacy and fear of not measuring up. This struggle was compounded by the complexity of working in high-pressure environments, where the stakes felt particularly high. Despite these challenges, pursuing a college degree has been of immense importance to me. Education represents not just an opportunity for personal and professional growth, but also a pathway to overcoming the limitations imposed by my anxiety. My academic pursuits are driven by a deep passion for understanding and addressing complex issues, such as cerebral microbleeds and cerebral amyloid angiopathy, which align with my long-term goals of contributing to advancements in neurodegenerative disease research. The value of a college education extends beyond the acquisition of knowledge; it represents a chance to build resilience and develop coping strategies in a structured environment. For me, pursuing a degree is not only about achieving academic and professional success but also about facing and managing my anxiety in a supportive setting. The rigorous academic challenges and opportunities for collaboration are instrumental in pushing me out of my comfort zone, fostering personal growth, and building confidence. Moreover, my pursuit of higher education is deeply intertwined with my commitment to addressing and improving mental health awareness. My own experiences with anxiety have made me acutely aware of the importance of mental health support and advocacy. By succeeding in my academic endeavors, I hope to contribute to a more inclusive and supportive environment for others facing similar challenges. My goal is to use my education to drive research and awareness in the field of neurodegenerative diseases, while also advocating for mental health support and understanding.

In A Vindication of the Rights of Woman, Mary Wollstonecraft confronts the deeply entrenched cultural narrative that reduces women to beings of mere aesthetic value, perpetually infantilized and denied the autonomy to stand as equals among men. The paragraph chosen from her work reflects Wollstonecraft's fervent desire to awaken women to their inherent potential, which has long been stifled by societal expectations that glorify frailty and dependence. By treating women "like rational creatures" rather than as children in need of constant protection and adoration, Wollstonecraft challenges the very foundations of the gender hierarchy that prevailed in her time. Mary Wollstonecraft's paragraph from A Vindication of the Rights of Woman articulates a revolutionary challenge to the societal norms that infantilize women by encouraging them to embrace rationality, strength, and dignity, rather than conforming to the fragile, ornamental roles prescribed by patriarchal standards. Wollstonecraft seeks to redefine the essence of womanhood, urging women to reject the superficial virtues imposed upon them and instead cultivate their intellectual and physical capabilities to achieve true happiness and respect. Wollstonecraft's use of phrases like "fascinating graces" and "perpetual childhood" underscores her critique of the superficial qualities that society praised in women. These traits, she argues, are not signs of true dignity but rather indicators of a systemic effort to keep women in a state of subjugation. The language of "susceptibility of heart," "delicacy of sentiment," and "refinement of taste" that Wollstonecraft refers to, are not virtues to be aspired to but chains that bind women to roles that render them weak and passive. Wollstonecraft contends that these so-called virtues are synonymous with weakness, painting a bleak picture of a world where women, by embracing these qualities, become objects of pity and eventually contempt. The underlying meaning of Wollstonecraft's argument is a call to arms for women to reclaim their agency. She envisions a world where women are not merely the objects of pity or the recipients of a condescending form of love that is akin to pity. Instead, she urges women to seek strength—both mental and physical—because it is through strength that true dignity and happiness can be achieved. Wollstonecraft’s insistence on rationality over sentimentality reflects her belief that women must break free from the emotional cages that society has constructed for them. Wollstonecraft’s revolutionary ideas were not just about advocating for women's education or legal rights; they were about fundamentally altering the perception of women in society. She recognized that as long as women were seen as delicate creatures to be protected and pitied, they would never be able to stand on equal footing with men. This paragraph, therefore, is not merely a critique of the status quo but a blueprint for the transformation of women’s roles in society. The message Wollstonecraft conveys remains relevant today, as it continues to challenge the lingering stereotypes that suggest women are inherently more emotional, delicate, or in need of protection than men. Her call for women to aim at "strength of mind and body" is a powerful reminder that equality cannot be achieved through superficial changes in law or policy alone, but must be rooted in a fundamental shift in how society views and treats women. In conclusion, Wollstonecraft's paragraph from A Vindication of the Rights of Woman is a powerful assertion of the need for women to reject the limitations imposed upon them by a society that values weakness over strength, sentimentality over rationality. Her plea for women to embrace their full potential and to seek dignity and happiness through the cultivation of their intellect and physical capabilities is a timeless message that continues to resonate in the ongoing struggle for gender equality. Wollstonecraft’s words serve as both a critique of the past and a call to action for the present, urging us to reconsider what true dignity and human happiness consist of.

Navigating the complexities of identity, especially when it comes to being part of the LGBTQIA+ community, has been both a challenge and a source of strength for me. Identifying as bisexual has profoundly shaped my understanding of myself, my relationships, and my aspirations. My journey has been one of embracing who I am while also recognizing the societal and familial expectations that sometimes clash with my identity. Growing up in a household with mixed views on my sexuality has been challenging. My mom has always been a source of unwavering support. She’s encouraged me to be true to myself, to explore who I am without fear of judgment, and to understand that love and identity are not confined to narrow definitions. On the other hand, my dad has struggled to accept my bisexuality, which has created tension and moments of deep introspection. This dichotomy has forced me to navigate a path that balances my need for acceptance with the courage to be authentic, even when it isn’t easy. My biggest passion in life is understanding the human brain—how it functions, how it can falter, and, most importantly, how it can heal. My interest in neuroscience began as a purely academic pursuit, driven by curiosity about the mechanisms underlying neurodegenerative diseases. However, as I’ve delved deeper into this field, I’ve come to realize that my passion is not just about the science itself but about the people behind the conditions. The intersection of my identity and my academic interests has given me a unique perspective on the importance of mental health, particularly within marginalized communities like the LGBTQIA+ community. Living as a bisexual woman has made me acutely aware of the mental health challenges that many in my community face. The fear of rejection, the burden of hiding one’s true self, and the anxiety of not being accepted can take a significant toll on mental well-being. These experiences have driven me to want to make a difference—not just through scientific research but through advocacy and outreach. I want to contribute to creating spaces where LGBTQIA+ individuals feel safe, supported, and understood, especially when dealing with mental health issues. Coco Chanel, as described in the scholarship, was a beacon for safe spaces and artistic freedom. Her legacy resonates with me because it aligns with my own aspirations. I want to continue her work by using this scholarship to further my education in neuroscience, with a focus on mental health within the LGBTQIA+ community. The financial support would allow me to take on research projects that examine the unique mental health challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals, particularly those who, like myself, have experienced familial rejection or societal pressures. Moreover, I intend to use my education to advocate for better mental health resources and support systems within the LGBTQIA+ community. I believe that through research, outreach, and education, I can contribute to a world where people like Coco and myself don’t just survive but thrive in environments that celebrate who we are. This scholarship would enable me to pursue these goals with the depth and dedication they deserve, ensuring that Coco’s legacy of empowerment and community-building lives on. In conclusion, my identity as a bisexual woman has profoundly impacted my life’s goals. It has instilled in me a passion for understanding the complexities of the human brain and a commitment to improving mental health resources for marginalized communities. With the support of this scholarship, I hope to honor Coco Chanel’s legacy by continuing her work in creating safe, inclusive spaces where every individual, regardless of their identity, can flourish.

Growing up as a multiethnic Colombian-American woman, I’ve always navigated the intricate layers of culture, identity, and opportunity with a keen sense of awareness. My background has profoundly shaped my outlook on life, fueling my passion for advocating for those who are underrepresented and often overlooked, particularly in the fields of STEM. My journey to where I am now has been marked by significant challenges—financial, personal, and societal. Yet, these challenges have only strengthened my resolve, deepened my understanding of the world, and ignited my determination to make a lasting impact in the field of neuroscience. From as early as I can remember, my household was a blend of diverse traditions and rich cultural heritage. My mother, a strong and vibrant Colombian woman, filled our home with the warmth of her native land, from the aromas of arepas and empanadas to the lively rhythms of cumbia and vallenato. My father, an Italian-American with a penchant for order and discipline, balanced this with his own set of expectations—success was non-negotiable, and anything less than perfection was met with disappointment. Growing up in this environment, I was always aware of the tightrope I walked, balancing the desire to embrace my cultural roots with the pressure to meet the high standards set by my father. Financial challenges were a constant presence in our lives. My parents worked tirelessly to provide for my siblings and me, but the reality was that we lived on the edge of financial stability. There were many times when we had to make difficult choices, whether it was skipping a bill payment to afford school supplies or delaying a medical visit because the cost was too high. My mother often sacrificed her own needs to ensure that we had what we needed, and her resilience in the face of these challenges became a source of strength for me. She would often remind us that, despite our struggles, we had each other, and that was more valuable than anything money could buy. One of the most formative experiences of my life occurred during my senior year of high school when I was diagnosed with moderate anxiety. Up until that point, I had always been the “perfect” child—the one who excelled academically, participated in numerous extracurricular activities, and never gave my parents a reason to worry. But inside, I was battling a storm of self-doubt, fear, and overwhelming pressure to succeed. My anxiety reached its peak during the pandemic when the world around me seemed to be unraveling, and I found myself isolated from the support systems I had always relied on. Knitting became my escape during this time. I would lose myself in the rhythmic clicking of the needles, creating intricate patterns that required my full attention. It was in this meditative state that I first began to confront my anxiety. I remember one particularly frustrating project—a deep blue freesia flower scarf that I was determined to perfect. After weeks of work, I found myself standing over my bed, surrounded by a mess of yarn and shattered expectations. But as I sat there, tears of frustration in my eyes, something shifted. I realized the beauty of the scarf lay not in its perfection, but in the the mistakes and the determination to keep going despite them. This realization became a turning point for me. I began to see my anxiety not as a weakness, but as a part of my journey. It made me more empathetic, more aware of the struggles that others might be facing, and more determined to pursue a career where I could make a difference. My work as an Undergraduate Research Assistant in the Saikawa Lab at Emory University has further solidified my commitment to this path. The “Building Resilience in Atlanta” project, which focuses on the health impacts of environmental exposures and social vulnerability, has opened my eyes to the ways in which systemic inequalities impact entire communities. Growing up in a family where financial instability was a constant concern, I know firsthand how these factors can affect one’s mental and physical health. This work has deepened my understanding of the interconnectedness of science and society, and it has reinforced my belief that addressing health disparities requires a multidisciplinary approach that combines scientific research with community engagement. The experiences I’ve had with my family have also shaped my relationships with my siblings. As the middle child, I often felt the weight of responsibility to set an example, but this pressure sometimes led to competition rather than collaboration. The pandemic brought us closer together, as we were forced to confront our family dynamics head-on. When my parents temporarily separated during the early months of COVID, my sisters and I found ourselves in the difficult position of choosing sides. It was a painful time, but it also brought us closer together. We realized that we had to support each other, that we were stronger together than apart. This experience taught me the importance of solidarity, of standing up for what you believe in, even when it’s difficult. It also made me more compassionate and understanding of the struggles that others face. Looking forward, I am passionate about making a significant impact in the field of neuroscience, particularly in understanding and addressing neurodegenerative diseases. My goal is to contribute to research that not only advances our understanding of the brain but also addresses the disparities that exist in healthcare, especially for marginalized communities. I want to be a part of the solution, to use my skills and knowledge to make a difference in the lives of others, particularly those who, like my family, have faced significant challenges. I am deeply honored to apply for the Eric W. Larson Memorial Scholarship, and I am confident that with this support, I will be able to continue my journey and make a lasting impact in the field of neuroscience and beyond.

My journey with mental health has been a defining aspect of my life, shaping not only my goals and aspirations but also my relationships and understanding of the world. Being diagnosed with moderate anxiety during my senior year of high school was both a revelation and a turning point. Before that moment, I had lived in a world meticulously curated by my own perfectionism, where any deviation from the plan was met with an overwhelming sense of failure. Anxiety was the unseen force driving me forward, yet it also held me back, keeping me trapped in a cycle of self-criticism and fear. Before my diagnosis, I was like a tightly wound spring, always on edge, constantly striving to meet the lofty expectations I had set for myself. Whether it was academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, or even hobbies like knitting, I approached everything with a rigidity that left no room for error. My life was a checklist, and each item ticked off brought a fleeting sense of accomplishment, quickly overshadowed by the looming pressure of the next task. I was driven by the need to prove myself, to meet an unrelenting standard that I thought was necessary to gain acceptance and validation. The pandemic, with its enforced isolation and disruption of normal routines, was a catalyst for change. It slowed me down just enough to reflect on the way I had been living, and I began to realize that my relentless pursuit of perfection was unsustainable. Yet, even as I recognized this, I found it difficult to break free from the habits that had defined me for so long. My anxiety became more pronounced, manifesting in sleepless nights, constant worry, and an inability to enjoy the present moment. The diagnosis of moderate anxiety was both a relief and a challenge. On one hand, it provided a name for the feelings I had been grappling with, giving me a framework to understand my experiences. On the other hand, it forced me to confront the reality that I needed to change the way I approached life. I couldn’t continue to live in a constant state of tension, always fearing that I wasn’t good enough. This realization has profoundly influenced my goals and aspirations. Before, I viewed my passion for neuroscience and the study of neurodegenerative diseases as purely academic pursuits. I was fascinated by the complexity of the human brain, but my interest was largely clinical, focused on achieving success in a highly competitive field. However, my experience with anxiety has given me a new perspective. I now see mental health as an integral part of the broader landscape of brain health. My goal is no longer just to contribute to the science of neurodegenerative diseases, but also to advocate for a more holistic understanding of mental health within this field. I’ve become increasingly interested in how mental health intersects with chronic diseases, particularly in vulnerable populations. My work in the Saikawa Lab at Emory University, where I contribute to the "Building Resilience in Atlanta" project, has deepened my understanding of how environmental factors and social vulnerabilities impact mental health. I want to explore how these factors exacerbate conditions like anxiety and depression, particularly in communities that are already facing significant challenges. My goal is to integrate mental health into the broader conversation about public health and to advocate for interventions that address both mental and physical well-being. My relationships have also been deeply affected by my journey with anxiety. Growing up, I was part of a family dynamic where success was celebrated, and failure was often met with disappointment. This created an environment where vulnerability was not easily expressed, and emotions were often suppressed. The pandemic intensified these dynamics, leading to conflicts and strained relationships, particularly with my siblings. We were all struggling with our own issues, yet we lacked the tools to support each other effectively. However, my experience with anxiety has taught me the importance of empathy and open communication. I’ve learned that it’s okay to ask for help and that expressing vulnerability can strengthen relationships rather than weaken them. My sisters and I have started to build a more supportive and understanding relationship, one where we can share our struggles without fear of judgment. This shift has been gradual, but it has brought us closer and allowed us to confront some of the unhealthy patterns that had developed over the years. Understanding the world through the lens of my mental health journey has also changed my perspective on societal issues. I’ve become more aware of the stigma surrounding mental health, particularly in marginalized communities. Growing up in a multiethnic household, I’ve seen firsthand how cultural perceptions can shape attitudes towards mental health. In many communities, mental health issues are still seen as a sign of weakness or something to be hidden. This stigma can prevent people from seeking the help they need and can lead to a cycle of suffering that is passed down through generations. As someone who has experienced the challenges of anxiety, I feel a responsibility to advocate for greater awareness and understanding of mental health issues. I want to use my platform, both as a student and as a future researcher, to destigmatize mental health and to promote policies and practices that support mental well-being. This includes advocating for mental health resources in schools, supporting community-based mental health initiatives, and conducting research that highlights the connections between mental and physical health. My experience with mental health has shaped every aspect of my life. It has deepened my relationships, teaching me the value of empathy and open communication. And it has broadened my understanding of the world, making me more aware of the societal issues surrounding mental health and more committed to advocating for change. While my journey with anxiety has been challenging, it has also been a source of growth and transformation, shaping me into the person I am today and guiding the path I want to take in the future.

I'm constantly inspired by the boundless potential of STEM to reshape society and address the most pressing issues of our time. My decision to pursue a career in STEM is rooted in both my deep fascination with neuroscience and my desire to contribute to a field that holds the power to revolutionize our understanding of the human brain. This journey is both a personal and intellectual challenge, shaped by my own experiences and the persistent drive to make a difference in a male-dominated space. Growing up in a multiethnic household, I witnessed firsthand the value of resilience and perseverance, qualities that are crucial in the STEM world. My background as a Colombian-American has informed not only my identity but also the way I approach challenges. STEM, to me, represents the ultimate platform for problem-solving and innovation, and I want to be part of a generation of women that pushes the boundaries of knowledge in ways that are inclusive, empowering, and transformative. My passion for neuroscience stems from a desire to unravel the complexities of the brain, particularly neurodegenerative diseases, and to help shape therapies that will improve the quality of life for those affected by these conditions. I aim to contribute to a more inclusive, representative scientific community that values diversity of thought, background, and experience. As a sophomore at Emory University and an undergraduate research assistant in the Saikawa Lab, I have the privilege of working on a project that intersects environmental science, public health, and community resilience. This experience has opened my eyes to the ways in which science can serve the most vulnerable communities, and it has solidified my commitment to a career that bridges research and societal impact. By contributing to the 'Building Resilience in Atlanta' project, I have seen firsthand how interdisciplinary approaches in STEM can address the cumulative effects of climate change and environmental exposure on marginalized populations. This work has not only deepened my technical skills but also reinforced the importance of integrating scientific knowledge with real-world solutions to improve public health. In the future, as I pursue an MD/PhD in neurodegenerative diseases, I aim to explore how cutting-edge technologies like neuroimaging and genetic sequencing can help us better understand conditions such as Alzheimer's and cerebral amyloid angiopathy. My hope is to develop novel therapies that target the root causes of these diseases, thereby improving both diagnosis and treatment. By contributing to this field, I believe I can make a difference not only by advancing scientific knowledge but also by advocating for patient-centered care that addresses the needs of underrepresented populations in healthcare. Being a woman in STEM is about more than just contributing to research or technological advancements—it’s about paving the way for future generations of women to take their rightful place in these fields. I aspire to be a role model for young women, particularly those from multiethnic backgrounds, who may not see themselves represented in the sciences. My ultimate goal is to create a space in STEM where diversity is not only welcomed but celebrated, where the contributions of women are seen as indispensable, and where collaboration leads to greater innovation and societal impact. The Learner’s Annual Women in STEM Scholarship offers an invaluable opportunity to further my education and continue my research, while also allowing me to join a community of like-minded women who are equally passionate about making a difference. I believe that together, we can contribute to a future where gender equality in STEM is no longer an aspiration but a reality, and where the collective intelligence of diverse women drives the next wave of scientific breakthroughs.

Books have always been a source of profound inspiration for me, shaping not only my perspective on the world but also my goals and aspirations. Among the many characters and stories that have left an indelible mark on me, Elizabeth Bennet from Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice stands out. Her journey is one of self-discovery, emotional growth, and challenging societal norms—all themes that resonate deeply with me. Elizabeth's story has taught me the value of questioning the world around us, understanding the complexities of human nature, and striving for personal growth, even in the face of societal expectations. Elizabeth Bennet's character, with her wit, intelligence, and refusal to conform to societal expectations, has inspired me to approach life with a critical mind and an open heart. Her journey from quick judgments to a more nuanced understanding of those around her mirrors my own path of intellectual and emotional maturity. Like Elizabeth, I've come to realize that the world is not as simple as it might first appear. People are complex, and understanding them requires patience, empathy, and a willingness to challenge one's assumptions. This realization has shaped my goals in profound ways, particularly in my desire to disrupt traditional gender roles and question the way society views individuals. Books like Pride and Prejudice have been instrumental in fostering my passion for advocacy, particularly in areas related to gender equality and social justice. Elizabeth's struggle for agency in a world that often seeks to confine women to specific roles is a theme that resonates strongly with me. Her determination to live on her own terms, despite the pressures of her society, has inspired me to pursue a path that challenges conventional expectations and seeks to create a more equitable world. This has led me to become involved in various community initiatives aimed at empowering women and promoting gender equality. I’ve also found a strong connection between literature and activism, understanding how storytelling can be a powerful tool for social change. Beyond Elizabeth Bennet, other books have also played a significant role in shaping my goals. For instance, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie's We Should All Be Feminists has been a pivotal work in my understanding of feminism and my commitment to advocating for gender equality. Adichie's exploration of what it means to be a feminist in the 21st century has reinforced my belief that feminism is not just about women’s rights but about creating a more just and equal society for all. This book has encouraged me to think critically about the intersectionality of gender, race, and class, and to consider how these factors influence people's experiences and opportunities in life. Moreover, my love for books has also instilled in me a deep appreciation for the power of education and knowledge. Reading has shown me that education is not just about acquiring information, but about developing the ability to think critically, question assumptions, and seek out new perspectives. This belief in the transformative power of education has driven me to pursue a career that combines my passion for science and advocacy, with the ultimate goal of becoming an MD/PhD candidate specializing in neurodegenerative diseases. Through this path, I hope to contribute to the advancement of knowledge in a way that benefits society, particularly in addressing the health disparities that disproportionately affect marginalized communities.

What inspires me to get involved in my community is the belief that meaningful change begins at the local level, where the impact is most immediate and personal. Growing up in Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey, and now studying at Emory University, I’ve come to see how systemic issues like environmental injustice and public health disparities are not just abstract problems—they are real, tangible challenges that affect the lives of the people around me. My passion for community involvement stems from a deep desire to use my skills and knowledge to address these challenges, particularly in vulnerable and marginalized communities. As a multiethnic Colombian woman, I have witnessed firsthand how systemic challenges can disproportionately impact certain groups. This has driven me to become involved in my community, not just as a participant but as an advocate for change. My journey into community service began with a simple but powerful realization: while individual actions may seem small, they can accumulate to create a significant impact when aligned with a larger purpose. This belief has guided my efforts to influence change, whether through research, advocacy, or direct community engagement. One of the most significant ways I have worked to influence change in my community is through my role as an Undergraduate Research Assistant in the Saikawa Lab at Emory University. Here, I have been actively involved in the ‘Building Resilience in Atlanta’ project, which focuses on leveraging community knowledge to map the health impacts of cumulative environmental exposures and social vulnerability in the context of climate change. This project has allowed me to apply my academic interests in a way that directly benefits the community. In this role, I have contributed to the creation of an index and map at the neighborhood level, focused on the cumulative health impacts of chemical and non-chemical exposures exacerbated by climate change. This work has been particularly meaningful to me because it addresses the intersection of environmental justice and public health—two areas where marginalized communities are often most at risk. By engaging with community members and understanding their concerns, I’ve been able to help translate complex data into accessible information that empowers these communities to advocate for themselves. Another key aspect of my community involvement has been my participation in the CHART study, which focuses on children’s health in Westside Atlanta. This project has allowed me to engage directly with residents, listening to their experiences and helping to gather data that will be used to inform policies aimed at improving health outcomes in the area. Through this work, I’ve seen how research can be a powerful tool for advocacy and how important it is to include community voices in the research process. Beyond my work in the lab, I’ve also been involved in various outreach initiatives aimed at raising awareness about environmental and public health issues. For example, I’ve helped organize and participate in community workshops that educate residents about the health impacts of climate change and what they can do to protect themselves. These workshops have not only provided valuable information but have also fostered a sense of solidarity and collective action among participants. One of the most rewarding aspects of my community involvement has been seeing the impact of our work in real time. Whether it’s hearing from a community member who feels more empowered to advocate for their neighborhood or seeing a policy change influenced by our research, these moments reaffirm why I am so passionate about this work. They remind me that change is possible, even if it happens one step at a time.

One technology that profoundly inspires me is Geographic Information Systems (GIS). While it’s not a new technology, its transformative impact on our world continues to grow, particularly in addressing the complex challenges of environmental justice, public health, and social equity—issues that are deeply personal to me as a rising sophomore engaged in research on climate change and its health impacts. GIS has the remarkable ability to make the world a better place by visualizing data in ways that inform policy, empower communities, and promote sustainable development. My work as an Undergraduate Research Assistant in the Saikawa Lab at Emory University has deepened my appreciation for GIS. We are using this technology to map health impacts of cumulative environmental exposures and social vulnerability in the context of climate change, particularly in Atlanta’s most vulnerable communities. GIS allows us to integrate various data layers—such as air quality, temperature, and socioeconomic factors—into a comprehensive visual representation of environmental injustice. This helps us to identify neighborhoods that are disproportionately affected by environmental hazards and to advocate for targeted interventions. One of the most inspiring aspects of GIS is its potential to empower communities that have historically been marginalized. As a multiethnic Colombian woman, I am acutely aware of how systemic challenges can alienate certain groups from the decision-making processes that affect their lives. GIS can bridge this gap by providing a visual language that is accessible and understandable to a wide audience. In our work with the CHART study, which focuses on children’s health in Westside Atlanta, we use GIS to engage with the community directly. By mapping out areas of concern, such as locations with high levels of pollution or limited access to healthcare, we can have informed discussions with residents about their experiences and perceptions. In my future career, whether as an MD/PhD candidate in neurodegenerative diseases or as a researcher in environmental health, I plan to leverage GIS to continue my work in addressing the cumulative health impacts of environmental exposures and social vulnerability. By doing so, I hope to contribute to a more just and sustainable world, where technology serves as a bridge between data and action, between knowledge and empowerment.

I stood over my bed, surveying the ruin of tossed pieces of yarn and remnants of the pattern I’d spent weeks mulling over. I had picked what I thought to be the quintessential deep blue shade of yarn with an ideal blend of wool and acrylic. Armed with my US size 10 pair of bright yellow knitting needles and a carefully annotated design for a freesia flower scarf, I thought I could craft perfection. But here I was, flashforward a month, my hands ripping apart wool by the bundle, steam pouring out of my ears, full of disgust, disappointment, and desperation after dropping yet another stitch. This was life before December of my junior year. I was meticulous, hyper-focused, and, what I would later realize, unkind to myself. My life was merely a checklist and I impatiently scratched off each line. Addicted to the safety net created by rigidity and predictability, I was caged by the fear of failing to meet the milelong expectations I had set for myself. There was no joy or satisfaction; I was in constant motion and couldn’t pump the brakes. Even the pandemic only slowed me down a little bit. The one and a half years of isolation gave me time to think about my life and my place within the world and, disappointed, I realized that I had been squandering the chance to live life more consciously. But old habits were hard to break. The intensity and competitiveness of eleventh grade brought me right back to demanding perfection at the expense of my personal growth. I reached a knot in the skein and untangling it seemed unachievable. Navigating life as I did knitting, I often found myself alone, focused on the task at hand and performing my skill to the best of my ability. While I felt satisfaction from my finished knitted pieces and completed tasks, I found myself yearning for more. It wouldn’t be until a friend confided that she felt vulnerable and lost that I found the comfort I sought. I wasn’t alone nor was I the only one struggling. Embracing my vulnerability for the first time, I became more comfortable with uncertainty and developed a clarity previously unknown to me. Unraveling the complexity of the human brain, which has been my greatest passion, took on a different urgency. Previously, I had taken a magnifying glass to neurodegenerative brain diseases and looked at them as I did all my academic goals – as a highly clinical subject through which I could make my mark. I lacked perspective beyond the neuroblast culture I had spent hours running tests on. That changed after sitting in on a memoirs class with a group of cognitively impaired seniors I spend my weekends volunteering with. Hearing them speak about their lives full of ups, downs, and everything-in-betweens was the first time it truly sunk in that there are people attached to the brains that I studied with such vigor. Finding ways to treat, or even prevent, brain disease now has faces and stories attached resulting in my more pressing and deeper need to contribute to the science. A few weeks later, I found myself in a similar situation as three years ago. While I was still armed with my trusty needles, a spool of Cashmerino Chunky unwinding with every stitch, I began weaving in greater expressiveness. Although I had initially planned to make a scarf, I became so enraptured with the purl configuration that I kept adding until I ran out of yarn. Ultimately, the scarf turned into a patchwork blanket – some lines are balanced while others are too tight and occasionally there’s a dropped stitch or two. And while there are different textures and colors, some of which objectively clash, when I wrap myself in its imperfect construction, I feel accomplished, and hopeful.