For a young Caribbean African American woman, success is more than personal achievements, financial stability, or career recognition. True success means making a lasting difference in the lives of others, honoring the sacrifices of my family, and living out my faith through services like medical missionary work. My ultimate goal is to become a cardiothoracic surgical physician assistant, providing high quality healthcare to minorities and women who often face disparities in medical treatment. I want to be a healthcare provider who not only treats patients physically but also uplifts them emotionally and spiritually. Success is using my knowledge and skills to bring healing and encouragement to those in need. Coming from a hardworking Caribbean background, I have witnessed what true sacrifice looks like. My mother who is a single mom has worked tirelessly to provide for me despite financial challenges. My grandmother left her home in Bermuda to seek better opportunities, laying the foundation for our family’s future. I know the sacrifices my family has made and everything I do is to make them proud. I want them to see that their hard work was not in vain. I want to break generational barriers and give back to my family and community in meaningful ways. Faith plays a crucial role in my vision of success. My favorite scripture proverbs 3:5-6 states, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” This verse reminds me that my journey is not just about my efforts but about trusting God’s plan for my life. There have been times when I doubted myself, moments when bullying made me feel unworthy, or when financial struggles made my future seem uncertain. There have also been times in school when I felt I wasn't smart enough to go into healthcare. However, through prayer and unwavering faith, I have continued to push forward, knowing that God has a purpose for me and there is a reason I have a passion for pursuing healthcare. One of the biggest obstacles I have faced is bullying, both in-person and online. It was a painful experience that tested my confidence and self worth. At times, I felt isolated, but instead of allowing it to define me, I turned to my faith. I sought out positive environments, surrounded myself with supportive people, and focused on my academics. Overcoming bullying taught me the importance of self love and being strong in yourself. Now, I use my experiences to uplift and encourage others who may feel unheard or defeated. This scholarship is more than just financial assistance. It is an opportunity to pursue my dreams without being weighed down by financial burdens. It will allow me to focus on my studies, gain clinical experience, and prepare for PA school so that I can fulfill my purpose. With this support, I will continue to excel academically, strengthen my skills, and work toward becoming a healthcare provider who serves with excellence and faith. Success is not just about what I accomplish for myself, but how I use my blessings to impact others. With this scholarship I will be one step closer to my goals, honoring my family’s sacrifices, living out my faith, and making a meaningful difference in healthcare and my community.

Growing up in a single-parent household has been one of the biggest influences on my life. My mom has always been my role model—watching her work tirelessly to provide for me, sacrificing her own needs so I could have opportunities, has shaped how I view hard work, resilience, and success. I’ve seen firsthand what it means to struggle, but I’ve also seen what it means to push through, to never give up, and to keep going even when the odds are stacked against you. Because of her, I don’t take anything for granted and refuse to let challenges stop me from achieving my goals. Being raised by a single mom has also made me incredibly independent and resourceful. I’ve learned how to juggle responsibilities—school, volunteering, work, clubs, and managing my track and boys' basketball team—because I know my future depends on it. I don’t have a financial safety net, so I push myself to take every opportunity seriously. My mom and grandma have always told me that education is very important. My grandma had to leave my mom behind in Berumda ( where we are from ) to get an education in America, so I have seen first hand how my family has made sacrifices. I work hard in school, not just for myself but for my family and, most importantly, my mom—for everything she’s sacrificed to get me here. Although I have a clear idea of the career path I want to pursue, even if that were to change, my ultimate goal will always stay the same: I want to help people. My passion for giving back comes from my own experiences of struggle and perseverance. I know what it feels like to not have all the resources or support in the world, so I want to be that person for someone else. Whether it’s through healthcare, mentorship, or community service, I want to uplift others and make a real impact. One day, I see myself in a position where I can provide care and support to those who need it most. Whether I’m working in a hospital or a clinic or leading initiatives in underserved communities, I know that my purpose will be to serve others. I want to be a role model for young girls who come from situations like mine, showing them that success is possible no matter where you start. No matter what career I enter, my heart will always be in helping, healing, and making a difference in people’s lives. That is what truly drives me, and that is the future I am working so hard to create.

Ever since I was little, I’ve been fascinated by the healthcare field— I have always admired how healthcare professionals help heal us and keep us alive without us even thinking about it. But what pushed me toward my decision of being a surgeon was a moment I’ll never forget. A couple of years ago, my mom had to go to the hospital to get tumors removed. I was in awe of the surgeons and nurses who took care of her. They knew exactly what to do, and because of them, my mom was okay. That was the first time I thought, I want to do that. I want to help people like they do. At first, I just knew I wanted to be in the medical field, but I wasn’t sure exactly where I fit in and what exactly I wanted to do. Then, I started my EKG (Electrocardiogram) class, and everything just clicked. Learning about how the heart works, how electrical signals keep it beating, how even the smallest problem can throw everything off—it was fascinating. I realized that the heart isn’t just another organ; it’s the organ that keeps everything going. And just like that, I knew surgery—specifically cardiothoracic surgery—was where I belonged. Now, every step I take—whether it’s my CNA/EKG class, volunteering at hospitals and nursing homes, or even managing my school’s sports teams—feels like a step closer to that goal. One day, I’ll be the one in the OR making sure someone else’s mom gets to go home safely.

From a young age, I have always been passionate about helping others, which is why I am dedicated to pursuing a career in the medical field. My goal is to become a cardiothoracic surgical physician assistant, focusing on providing care for minorities and women who often face disparities in healthcare. I know this journey will require years of dedication, education, and financial support, but I am determined to overcome any obstacles in my path. One of my biggest inspirations for giving back comes from my community involvement. I volunteer at HCA and St. Vincent’s Hospital, where I gain firsthand experience in a healthcare setting and interact with patients. Seeing the impact that compassionate care has on people only strengthens my commitment to the medical field. Additionally, I volunteer at Elevate Life Church’s Summer Blast, where I work with kids to create a fun, safe, and positive environment. These experiences have shaped my love for service and solidified my desire to make a difference in people’s lives. Unfortunately, funding my education will be a significant challenge. My mom is a single parent, and while she works hard, she is unable to provide much financial support for my college and medical school expenses. That’s why I am dedicated to applying for scholarships, working, and seeking any financial assistance available. I refuse to let money be the reason I can’t achieve my dreams, but I also know I can’t do it alone. Beyond my passion for medicine, I am also deeply committed to keeping children and youth safe, both in person and online. Having experienced both in-person and cyberbullying, I know firsthand how damaging it can be. I have witnessed how bullying affects self-esteem, mental health, and even academic performance. Because of this, I make it a priority to speak out against bullying and create safe spaces where kids feel valued and protected. Whether it’s mentoring younger students at church, promoting kindness, or educating others on the dangers of cyberbullying, I strive to be part of the solution. In my community, I actively promote anti-bullying initiatives by encouraging open conversations and standing up for those who may feel unheard. When working with kids at Elevate Life Church, I ensure that every child feels included and safe, reinforcing positive behavior and kindness. I believe that resilience, compassion, and determination define who I am. I have big dreams, and while the road ahead will be challenging, I am ready to face it head-on. With the right support, I know I can achieve my goal of working in the medical field, giving back to my community, and advocating for those who need a voice.

Leah O'Brien Lpstaker9@gmail.com 904-735-2557 Joe Gilroy Scholarship Essay 2-19-2025 My ultimate goal is to become a cardiothoracic surgical physician assistant (PA) and serve minorities and women in the healthcare system. This career path requires strategic planning, financial preparation, and hands-on clinical experience, all of which I am determined to pursue with dedication and resilience. I plan to major in Biology during my undergraduate studies to achieve my goal. This field will provide the necessary prerequisites for PA school, including courses such as anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and biochemistry. Meeting regularly with academic advisors, taking rigorous science courses, and seeking research opportunities will ensure I stay on track. My timeline includes earning a Bachelor’s degree within four years, preparing for the PA-CAT or GRE during my junior and senior years, and applying to accredited PA programs with strong surgical specializations upon graduation. Gaining direct patient care experience is crucial for PA school applications. During college, I plan to work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) and EKG technician to accumulate the required patient care hours while earning an income. I have taken CNA and EKG classes during high school so that I can work these jobs. This experience will help me develop essential medical skills and expose me to the realities of working in the hospital. My timeline includes working part-time as a CNA or EKG technician during college or for summer break and shadowing PAs in surgical fields by my senior year of college. Financial preparation is a critical aspect of my plan. I’m being raised by a single mom so I aim to minimize student debt by utilizing multiple funding sources. I will apply for merit-based and need-based scholarships throughout college, seek out STEM and healthcare scholarships, and utilize grants and financial aid programs. Additionally, working part-time as a CNA or EKG technician and exploring work-study programs will provide a steady income. I am also considering military options, such as the Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP), enlisting, and loan repayment programs for healthcare professionals to fund my PA education. Budget considerations are essential to my success. Undergraduate tuition costs can range from $20,000 to $50,000, which I plan to cover through scholarships, grants, and part-time work. PA school tuition can range from $80,000 to $150,000, and I plan to cover this through scholarships, military funding, and loan repayment programs. Additional expenses like application fees and living costs will be managed through savings, ROTC scholarships, and financial aid. My drive to succeed comes from my hardworking family. My grandmother made a tremendous sacrifice by leaving my mother behind in Bermuda to come to America in search of education and opportunities to provide for her family. Her determination inspires me to work hard, stay focused, and give back to my community. I want to honor her sacrifices by excelling in my studies and becoming a PA who advocates for underrepresented communities. In conclusion, my path to becoming a cardiothoracic surgical PA requires dedication, financial planning, and strategic decision-making. Through hard work, clinical experience, and financial responsibility, I am confident in my ability to achieve my goals. With my family’s sacrifices in mind, I am determined to create a future where I serve my community and help those in need.

Leah O’Brien Lpstaker9@gmail.com 904-735-2557 2-19-2025 Arthur and Elana Panos Scholarship Faith has been the foundation of my life, guiding me through challenges and shaping my aspirations. My belief in God has given me strength and purpose, especially during difficult times. As I pursue a career in the medical field, I know my faith will continue to guide and support me. My family has faced many hardships, but God has been our rock. My grandmother sacrificed everything, leaving her home and my mom behind in Bermuda to provide a better future. My single mom worked tirelessly to ensure I had opportunities she never had. Despite financial struggles, prayer, and faith carried us through. I've witnessed God's provision—doors opening when we least expected, kind people stepping in to help, and opportunities arising at just the right time. These experiences have taught me that even in dark moments, God is always present, working things out for our good. My faith has not only helped me through personal struggles but has also inspired my career path. I am taking CNA and EKG certification classes, gaining valuable experience as I work toward my dream of becoming a cardiothoracic surgeon. Medicine is a challenging field, but my faith will sustain me. The ability to save lives and bring hope to patients aligns with my belief in serving others. I see medicine as a calling, and I trust that God will give me the wisdom, patience, and compassion to excel. Faith teaches me perseverance. There will be times when I feel overwhelmed, exhausted, or discouraged. However, I know that God has placed this calling in my heart for a reason. He has given me the passion to help others and the determination to overcome challenges. Every obstacle I face is an opportunity for growth, and with prayer, I will continue moving forward. My faith has also led me to serve in my church community. I've worked in the church café, assisted in the children's ministry, and supported young kids in their faith. As a student leader in youth ministry, I’ve guided and mentored my peers. I also serve by giving to the less fortunate and offering prayer every first Saturday with my church. These experiences have strengthened my leadership skills, deepened my empathy, and reinforced my belief in service. The fulfillment I find in giving back mirrors the fulfillment I know I’ll experience as a healthcare professional. As I continue my journey, I know challenges will come, but my faith reminds me that I am never alone. I will rely on prayer during tough times, seek guidance from God in my decisions, and use my platform to uplift and inspire others. My dream is not only to heal people physically but also to offer them comfort and encouragement, reminding them that they are never without hope. Faith has shaped my past, strengthened my present, and will continue to guide my future. I am grateful for every obstacle that has brought me closer to God and for the purpose He has placed in my heart. No matter what comes my way, I trust that with God, all things are possible. My faith will be the foundation that sustains me in my career, helping me become a compassionate and skilled cardiothoracic surgeon.

Ever since I was young, I had a desire to be a healthcare professional because I have always had a passion for helping people. I grew up always wanting to care for my dolls and watching TV shows such as Grey's Anatomy, Chicago Med, and Private Practice, which inspired me to become a cardiothoracic surgeon. As I grew older the desire remained with me and I became very observant whenever I was around doctors. Just recently, my mother had to undergo invasive surgery and I watched firsthand the pre-op, and post-op procedures and how the doctors interacted with her. I noticed how attentive and kind they were to her and always tried to make her as comfortable as possible. Watching those interactions further propelled my desire to pursue healthcare so I could help and treat others the same way. To pursue my dream, I will have to attend at least 15 years of college, medical school, and residency. I realize that it will take a lot of hard work and dedication, but in the end it will all be worthwhile. Minorities are the number one demographic to suffer from heart disease, heart attacks, and various cancers. There are very few minorities in this field so by understanding the challenges of minorities I can best become an advocate for my patients and use my influence to educate my patients on heart disease prevention. My family is my main inspiration for wanting to pursue my education at a college level. My grandmother is an immigrant from the Caribbean and came to the USA to go to school to become a teacher. She worked hard and made many sacrifices to complete her education. While in college in the USA, she had to leave my mother behind with my great-grandmother so she could focus on completing her education as a teacher. My father, on the other hand, is also from the Caribbean but did not get an education and did not have many options for work. He must work 24/7 with barely any time off so he encourages me to get an education so that I can have more opportunities and choices for work. My mom is a single mom who works hard daily to provide for me and teaches me the importance of education. It is because of my family that I am determined to attend college and attend medical school. Aside from the medical aspect of my wanting to attend college, I am driven to pursue this level of education because I have a desire for personal and intellectual growth. I believe education is the key to unlocking many opportunities and relationships later down the lifeline. I am looking forward to moving into a new environment with people of different backgrounds, as well as just exploring college and what it has to offer like developing new skills, exploring new and diverse subjects, and learning valuable lessons and skills. I believe these things will empower me along my journey of turning my dream into reality with the help of higher education.