I have chosen to pursue a degree in healthcare because of a deep-rooted passion for helping others and the personal experiences that have shaped my understanding of the importance of compassionate care. As a first-generation Cuban-American, I have seen the struggles and challenges that families face, particularly when it comes to accessing medical care. My own family’s journey, navigating a complex healthcare system while trying to bridge language and cultural gaps, has motivated me to pursue a career where I can make healthcare more accessible, inclusive, and supportive for those who need it most. Growing up, I often took on the role of caregiver for my younger cousins, assisting with schoolwork, providing emotional support, and helping to care for family members. These experiences taught me how essential it is to offer not only physical care but also emotional support and clear communication. I became deeply aware of how healthcare goes beyond medical treatment—it involves understanding people’s fears, addressing their concerns, and offering comfort during challenging times. This understanding has driven my decision to pursue a career in healthcare, specifically in pediatrics or mental health, where I can have a direct and meaningful impact on the lives of others, especially children and families facing difficult situations. As a woman entering the healthcare field, I am committed to making a positive impact by not only providing medical expertise but also by advocating for greater diversity and inclusivity. The healthcare industry, like many others, faces challenges related to gender disparity and access to quality care for marginalized communities. I hope to be a voice for those who may not always have the resources or representation they need. By working to bridge the gaps in healthcare access and ensuring that all patients, regardless of their background or circumstances, receive the care and respect they deserve, I aim to contribute to creating a more equitable healthcare system. I also believe that women bring a unique and invaluable perspective to healthcare—one that is often grounded in empathy, communication, and nurturing care. By being a role model and leader in my field, I hope to inspire other young women, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, to pursue careers in healthcare. I want to show them that they can succeed in any field, regardless of societal expectations, and make a lasting difference in their communities. As a woman in healthcare, my goal is not only to treat patients but to inspire change, advocate for those who are voiceless, and ensure that every patient feels valued, heard, and understood.

Having foreign-born parents has profoundly shaped my academic experience and future goals in ways that have motivated me to work harder and embrace opportunities with a sense of purpose. As a first-generation Cuban-American, I have witnessed firsthand the sacrifices my parents made to provide my siblings and me with the chance to achieve a better life in the United States. Their experiences have inspired a deep respect for education, as my parents never had the same opportunities growing up, and they have emphasized the value of hard work, perseverance, and resilience. Growing up in a bilingual household, I was often tasked with helping translate or navigate conversations with teachers, doctors, or other professionals. This responsibility fostered a strong sense of independence, problem-solving skills, and an appreciation for diverse perspectives. I developed a strong work ethic, driven by a desire to make my parents proud and to fulfill the dreams they had for me. However, this also meant facing certain challenges, such as not having the same level of familial guidance on academic matters as some of my peers. Still, these challenges motivated me to seek out resources, build relationships with teachers, and take advantage of the educational opportunities offered at school. My parents' foreign background also instilled in me a sense of cultural pride and a strong desire to help others in similar situations. I have been especially motivated to pursue a career in healthcare, with a particular focus on pediatrics or mental health, because of the support and care my family and I have received in the medical field. Their experiences have shown me the importance of accessible and compassionate care, particularly for immigrant families who may face language barriers or lack resources. I want to make a difference by providing quality healthcare to those who might otherwise feel overlooked. In addition, my experiences have shaped my goal of becoming a role model for my younger siblings and cousins. I want to show them that with education, determination, and support, they can overcome challenges and succeed. As the first in my family to attend college, I understand the importance of setting a strong example and helping my family navigate the complex world of higher education. This sense of responsibility fuels my commitment to succeed, not only for myself but for my family and community as well. Ultimately, having foreign-born parents has influenced my academic journey by instilling in me values of perseverance, empathy, and service. These values will continue to guide my pursuit of a career in healthcare, where I aim to serve others with compassion, particularly those from immigrant backgrounds, just as my parents taught me to do.

I am a senior at Tampa Bay Technical High School, where I have worked hard to excel academically and contribute to my community. As a first-generation Cuban-American, I take great pride in my education and am committed to using it to make a positive impact. I am passionate about pursuing a career in healthcare, particularly in pediatrics or mental health, so I can help others navigate their challenges and improve their well-being. In school, I have embraced leadership and service opportunities. As Historian for HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America), I help organize events that raise awareness about health careers and leadership development. I’ve also volunteered over 100 hours at local healthcare facilities and participated in environmental cleanups. These experiences have allowed me to connect with people from all walks of life, deepening my understanding of their needs and inspiring me to make a positive difference. Through my work in HOSA and other service projects, I have developed leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills, which I plan to continue building as I pursue my career in healthcare. At home, I strive to be a role model for my younger cousins. As the first in my family to attend college, I understand the challenges of navigating the educational system without much prior guidance. I aim to show them that perseverance, hard work, and education are powerful tools for achieving their dreams. I often help my cousins with their schoolwork, encouraging them to stay focused on their studies and reminding them that they are capable of overcoming any obstacles they may face. I hope to inspire them to believe in themselves and pursue their own educational and career aspirations. In my community, I am passionate about promoting mental health awareness. Having experienced anxiety and depression myself, I understand how important it is to have a supportive environment where people can openly talk about their struggles. Through my involvement in school clubs and community service, I actively advocate for mental health support, aiming to break the stigma and create spaces where people feel heard and valued. In addition to my academic and community involvement, I am also passionate about giving back through volunteer work. One of the most meaningful experiences for me was helping out at an assisted living facility during events like Oktoberfest, where I served food and interacted with elderly residents. This experience gave me a deeper appreciation for the elderly and reinforced my desire to pursue a career in healthcare. It also highlighted the importance of small acts of kindness and how much they can positively impact someone's day. By volunteering, I have learned the value of empathy and how vital it is to create strong, compassionate connections within my community. These experiences have strengthened my resolve to not only achieve personal success but to also contribute to the well-being of others around me. Ultimately, I hope to use my education and experiences to create a lasting positive impact in both my community and my family. I want to be a source of support, inspiration, and hope for those around me, helping them realize their potential and pursue brighter futures.

I am a dedicated senior at Tampa Bay Technical High School, where I have consistently worked hard to balance academics, extracurricular activities, and community involvement. As a first-generation Cuban-American, education has always been a priority for me. I am ranked in the top 16% of my class with a 5.8 weighted GPA, and I have developed a strong passion for pursuing a career in healthcare. I am particularly interested in pediatrics, sports medicine, and mental health, as I have personally experienced the challenges of managing mental health and want to support others in similar situations. Outside of academics, I have been actively involved in various community and school organizations. I currently serve as the Historian for HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America), where I help foster awareness about health careers and leadership opportunities for my peers. Additionally, I am involved in Key Club, where I hold leadership positions, and I have volunteered over 100 hours at local events and service projects, such as helping at an assisted living facility and environmental clean-up efforts. These activities have allowed me to develop leadership skills, foster a sense of empathy, and contribute to making a positive impact in my community. In terms of financial need, I am seeking assistance to help cover the cost of higher education, as my family’s financial resources are limited. As a first-generation college student, I will be the first in my family to attend university, and my parents are unable to provide significant financial support. I am actively applying for scholarships and financial aid to help me achieve my educational goals. This scholarship would relieve some of the financial burden, allowing me to focus on my studies and pursue opportunities for internships and research in healthcare. I am also committed to keeping children and youth safe in my community, both in-person and online. As someone who has personally witnessed the effects of bullying, I understand the importance of creating safe spaces for young people. I work to create awareness about the impact of bullying through my involvement in school clubs like Key Club and HOSA, where we organize events and discussions on the importance of kindness and inclusivity. I also use my social media platforms to promote anti-bullying messages, sharing resources on how to recognize and prevent bullying, both in-person and online. Online, I am proactive about encouraging positive digital citizenship and educating my peers about the dangers of cyberbullying. I have participated in school initiatives that teach students how to protect themselves online, report harmful behavior, and support friends who may be experiencing cyberbullying. I believe that promoting open conversations about bullying, both in-person and online, is crucial in building a community where young people feel supported and valued. In conclusion, my personal experiences, academic pursuits, and community involvement have shaped my commitment to helping others, especially in areas like mental health and bullying prevention. This scholarship will help me further my education and continue my work to create positive change in my community. Through my passion for healthcare and my dedication to promoting kindness and safety, I hope to make a lasting impact on the lives of others.

My experience with mental health has deeply shaped my goals, relationships, and understanding of the world, and my Catholic faith has played a central role in helping me navigate these challenges. Over the years, I’ve struggled with anxiety and periods of depression, and these experiences have taught me the importance of resilience, self-compassion, and seeking support. Through prayer and scripture, my faith has provided me with the strength and peace I needed to face these difficult times. As a Catholic, I’ve learned that mental health struggles do not define me. One scripture that has deeply resonated with me during these challenges is Philippians 4:6-7: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” This passage has reminded me that, while anxiety and depression can feel overwhelming, I am never alone—God is with me, offering peace and comfort beyond my understanding. My faith has taught me to surrender my worries to God and trust in His plan, which has helped me overcome feelings of isolation and fear. These experiences have also shaped my relationships. Struggling with mental health has made me more empathetic and understanding of others' pain. I’ve learned that everyone has their own battles, and this realization has deepened my connections with family, friends, and peers. My Catholic faith emphasizes compassion and care for others, and it has inspired me to be there for those who are struggling, just as I have relied on the support of others. I’ve found strength in being open about my struggles, and in turn, others have felt encouraged to share their own challenges, creating a community of mutual support and understanding. In terms of my goals, my experiences have inspired me to pursue a career in healthcare, specifically in mental health or pediatrics. I am deeply moved by the need for better mental health resources and support, especially in underserved communities where such issues are often overlooked. As I seek to build a career that integrates my passion for helping others with my personal experiences, I am motivated by the desire to serve others in a meaningful way, rooted in the values of kindness, empathy, and healing that I’ve learned from my faith. Through my struggles, I have also gained a deeper understanding of the world. I have come to believe that mental health is as important as physical health and that everyone deserves access to the resources and care they need. My Catholic faith teaches me that every individual is made in God’s image and deserves dignity and support, regardless of their struggles. This belief drives my desire to work towards reducing the stigma around mental illness and advocating for mental health awareness in all communities. In summary, my experience with mental health, coupled with my Catholic faith, has shaped my goals, relationships, and worldview. It has deepened my empathy, strengthened my resilience, and instilled a commitment to helping others. I am driven to pursue a career where I can offer care, support, and advocacy for those facing mental health challenges, just as I have learned to lean on God’s strength and love in my own journey.

I am a first-generation Cuban-American student, deeply committed to my education and community. Throughout my life, I have faced a personal challenge that has shaped who I am today: my struggle with anxiety and periods of depression. These mental health challenges have been a part of my journey for several years, and while I’ve learned to cope with them, they have had a significant impact on both my personal life and academic career. Anxiety often feels like an overwhelming cloud that I carry with me, making daily tasks, schoolwork, and even social interactions feel like monumental challenges. I’ve spent many nights lying awake, my mind racing with worries about grades, the future, and my ability to succeed. There have been times when I’ve felt paralyzed by my fears, unable to push past the weight of my own thoughts. In addition to anxiety, I’ve also faced periods of depression, where even the simplest tasks seemed impossible, and I struggled to find the energy or motivation to keep going. During these times, the pressure of balancing school, extracurricular activities, and personal responsibilities often felt overwhelming. I found it difficult to stay focused on my studies and maintain the level of dedication that I usually strive for. It took time for me to realize that struggling with my mental health didn’t make me weak or incapable; it simply meant I was human. I’ve learned that mental health, just like physical health, requires attention and care. What I’ve come to understand through my experiences is the importance of seeking support when needed and prioritizing self-care. At first, I hesitated to talk about my struggles, feeling ashamed of the vulnerability that came with admitting I was not okay. But over time, I realized that mental health is nothing to be ashamed of, and speaking openly about it was not only a way to heal, but also a way to help others who may be silently struggling as well. I reached out to teachers, school counselors, and friends for support, and I found that sharing my experience not only helped me feel less alone, but also allowed others to open up about their own challenges. Learning to manage my anxiety and depression has not been easy, but it has taught me resilience, empathy, and the importance of mental well-being. I have developed strategies for coping, such as practicing mindfulness, organizing my tasks to reduce stress, and carving out time for activities that bring me joy. I’ve also become more aware of the value of self-compassion, recognizing that setbacks don’t define my worth or abilities. My struggle with anxiety and depression has also shaped my desire to pursue a career in healthcare, where I hope to contribute to improving mental health resources and breaking the stigma surrounding mental illness. I’ve seen firsthand how mental health affects every aspect of a person’s life, and I am passionate about advocating for those who may be going through similar struggles. I hope to use my experiences to make a difference, whether that’s through direct patient care, mental health education, or supporting initiatives that provide access to mental health services for underserved communities. Ultimately, my battle with anxiety and depression has been a defining part of my life. It has shaped my character, instilled in me a deep sense of empathy, and reinforced my commitment to helping others who face similar challenges. Though my journey is ongoing, I have learned that mental health struggles do not make me any less capable of achieving my goals—they have only made me stronger and more determined to make a positive impact in the world.

There was a time during my high school years when I faced a deep personal challenge: the absence of my family, who live in Cuba. As a first-generation Cuban-American, the emotional weight of being separated from them by distance and political barriers was overwhelming. I missed their support, especially during significant moments in my life—school events, holidays, and difficult personal times. The longing for their presence sometimes felt unbearable, and it left me feeling isolated and alone. During this challenging period, I turned to my Catholic faith for comfort and strength. I found solace in prayer, asking God for the peace to overcome the loneliness and for the strength to continue moving forward. One scripture that helped me through this time was Philippians 4:6-7: "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." This verse reminded me that I didn’t have to face my struggles alone—that God was always with me, listening to my prayers and offering peace beyond what I could understand. In addition to personal prayer, I found comfort in my faith community at church. Attending mass, participating in youth groups, and engaging with others who shared similar beliefs provided a sense of belonging, even when my family wasn’t physically present. Through these moments, I realized that while I couldn’t always see my family, I was never truly alone because God was always there for me. My faith taught me that I could rely on Him during my hardest moments, and that prayer was a bridge between me and my loved ones, no matter how far apart we were. The support I found in prayer, scripture, and my faith community helped me grow in resilience. I began to understand that the separation from my family, while painful, was temporary. It gave me hope, knowing that God’s plan for me was greater than my current circumstances. In those moments of loneliness, I turned to God and found peace, as He promised in Matthew 28:20: "And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." His presence gave me the strength to persevere and focus on my studies and responsibilities, despite the challenges I was facing. Over time, my reliance on faith not only helped me cope with the absence of my family but also deepened my trust in God’s timing. I learned that while I could not control the distance, I could control how I responded to it, and with God’s guidance, I could move forward. This experience reinforced the idea that faith is not just about the absence of struggle but about finding peace and strength in the midst of it. Through prayer and scripture, I discovered that the challenges I faced were not insurmountable. God’s peace helped guard my heart, as Philippians 4:7 promises, and it allowed me to keep pushing forward. I realized that while family is important, God’s love and presence were constant, providing me with the courage and faith to keep moving toward my goals.

Success, to me, is not just about achieving personal goals, but about making a meaningful, lasting impact on others and creating positive change in the world. As a first-generation Cuban-American student, my definition of success is deeply rooted in my values of education, service, and resilience. It means achieving academic and professional goals, while also giving back to my community, helping others, and continuously growing as a person. The journey to success is often challenging and requires perseverance, determination, and a strong sense of purpose. My career goal is to become an orthopedic surgeon, a path that aligns with my passion for medicine and helping others. I am particularly drawn to this field because of the opportunity it provides to restore mobility and improve the quality of life for people affected by musculoskeletal issues. Throughout my time at Tampa Bay Technical High School, I have worked diligently to maintain a 5.8 weighted GPA, ranking in the top 16% of my class. I have taken on a rigorous academic load that includes Advanced Placement (AP) courses in subjects like Biology, Chemistry, and Health Sciences, all of which have solidified my passion for pursuing a career in healthcare. Success also means excelling in extracurriculars and community service. I am deeply committed to my roles as the historian for HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America), secretary for Upward Bound’s Senior Student Government Association at the University of South Florida, and as an assistant manager for my school's varsity soccer teams. These experiences have taught me leadership, collaboration, and problem-solving, while also strengthening my ability to balance multiple responsibilities. Volunteering has also played a critical role in shaping my definition of success. I have dedicated over 100 hours to various service initiatives, including local environmental conservation efforts and assisting with healthcare-related events. These experiences have given me a broader perspective on the needs of my community, as well as reinforced my desire to pursue a career in medicine. For me, true success also involves constant self-improvement and learning. It’s not just about achieving external recognition or accolades, but about growing as a person who can adapt to challenges and continue striving toward new goals. I am constantly looking for opportunities to expand my knowledge, whether through my coursework, extracurricular activities, or volunteer work. I aim to surround myself with people who challenge me to think critically and push me to become the best version of myself. This $2,500 scholarship is a critical step toward achieving my vision of success. It will provide me with the financial support needed to continue my education and pursue my passion for medicine. As I prepare to apply to universities, this scholarship will ease the burden of tuition costs, allowing me to focus more on my studies and less on financial stress. It will also help me take the next step in gaining hands-on experience in the medical field through internships and research opportunities, which are essential for my professional growth. The scholarship will also enable me to participate in extracurricular activities, research programs, and healthcare internships that will further hone my skills and expand my understanding of the healthcare industry. These experiences are crucial for building a well-rounded resume that will set me apart in the competitive medical field. The ability to gain real-world experience while pursuing my degree is vital for my long-term success, and this scholarship will provide the necessary resources to make that possible. Beyond academics, success for me involves making a meaningful impact on my community. I have always believed in using my talents and resources to help others, whether that means organizing a community event, helping underserved populations access healthcare, or volunteering my time to causes that matter. This scholarship will help me continue to build my network and make connections with other students and professionals who share my commitment to service and making a positive impact. By investing in my education, this scholarship is helping me lay the foundation for a career that not only improves the lives of individuals through medical care but also contributes to systemic change in the healthcare industry. Ultimately, success is a journey, not a destination. It’s about the progress I make every day, whether that’s through my academic achievements, leadership roles, or service work. This scholarship will help me achieve the next milestone in my journey by supporting my education and professional development. It will enable me to continue striving toward my goal of becoming an orthopedic surgeon and using my skills to make a lasting impact on the healthcare industry and the lives of those I serve. With this scholarship, I am one step closer to realizing my vision of success: a life dedicated to learning, helping others, and contributing to a better world.

I am a first-generation Cuban-American student with a deep passion for both education and community service. Throughout my academic journey at Tampa Bay Technical High School, I have developed a strong interest in pursuing a career in medicine, particularly as an orthopedic surgeon. However, beyond my goal of becoming a healthcare professional, I am also passionate about entrepreneurship, particularly in the healthcare space. I believe that entrepreneurship can be a powerful tool to make a positive impact by creating innovative solutions that improve access to care, enhance patient outcomes, and address the challenges that exist within our healthcare system. For me, entrepreneurship is not just about starting a business—it is about using creativity and problem-solving skills to make a meaningful difference in the world. My goal is to combine my passion for healthcare with my entrepreneurial ambitions to create products or services that can directly benefit communities. One area I am particularly interested in is developing affordable healthcare solutions, such as medical devices or health apps, that can make a significant difference in patient care. I am especially motivated to focus on solutions for underserved populations, who often face barriers to accessing quality healthcare services. One of the key experiences that shaped my entrepreneurial aspirations is my involvement in organizations like HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America) and Key Club. As historian for HOSA, I have been exposed to the importance of leadership, teamwork, and communication in driving meaningful change. I’ve witnessed firsthand how small initiatives, when executed thoughtfully, can address critical healthcare needs. For example, HOSA has allowed me to work on projects that promote health awareness and provide resources for students interested in healthcare careers, which helped me understand how innovation can be used to solve real-world problems. Additionally, my experiences volunteering and participating in community service have reinforced my desire to pursue entrepreneurship in healthcare. I have volunteered in local environmental conservation projects and assisted in healthcare-related events. These opportunities gave me a firsthand look at the issues that many communities face, such as limited access to healthcare, and the importance of developing solutions that cater to these needs. Volunteering has also taught me how important it is to be responsive to the needs of others and to create solutions that are both practical and scalable. Looking ahead, I plan to continue developing my skills in both medicine and entrepreneurship. I want to be a part of a new wave of healthcare professionals who not only care for patients but also work to improve the systems around them. I aspire to create solutions that make healthcare more accessible, affordable, and effective for everyone, particularly for those who have historically been underserved. Whether through creating medical technologies, launching health-focused startups, or developing platforms that connect healthcare professionals with communities in need, I am committed to using entrepreneurship to drive positive change. Ultimately, my goal is to use my education and entrepreneurial spirit to make a tangible impact in the healthcare field. I believe that by combining my passion for medicine with my entrepreneurial vision, I can contribute to creating solutions that improve lives and make healthcare more accessible for everyone.