While on a spring break trip in high school, my family planned an excursion to the mountain town of Helen, Georgia, renowned for its Bavarian-style architecture. Helen’s charm evoked memories of my parents’ war-torn homeland, Bosnia, from which they sought refuge. Their excitement to explore a town reminiscent of home was palpable. At breakfast that morning, our plans were abruptly derailed. My dad suffered a heart attack. In those moments, my intuition suddenly took over me. I jumped out of my chair and began to push hard and fast in the middle of his chest, doubtful of any efficacy my actions had since I wasn’t trained in any sort of life-saving measures. The sensation of fracturing a rib for the first time while performing CPR is one that a person never forgets. This moment becomes all the more memorable when the compressions being done are on your very own father. At 17 years old, I encountered the stark contrast between the thrill of saving a life and the agony of witnessing a loved one’s struggle for survival. My mind blanked out, time seemed to blur until we were in the emergency room. Amidst the organized chaos, my family was surrounded by a team of incredible physicians and nurses who saved my dad’s life. Luckily, my father made a full recovery fairly quickly. What stood out to me most was when my dad’s doctor pulled me aside. He emphasized that my father probably wouldn’t be alive if I didn’t step up to the plate in that turmoil. It was only then that the gravity of the situation fully dawned on me. I still hear him telling me, “Life is unpredictable, but take charge of the scenarios you’re in. The tides don’t command the ship, the sailor does.” The physician’s impact on me is indelible; “taking charge” has become an integral part of my life. His reassuring presence during a tumultuous period for my family sparked my fascination with medicine. I aspire to emulate his compassion and support as a physician, inspired by his care despite not directly treating me as a patient. Upon returning to school within the weeks following that incident, I recognized the privilege of being able to obtain an education, a luxury not one person in my family before I had. Having access to school, especially college, is a gift. I look at every class as a stepping stone for me that I have to cross between now and the start of my career, and I am grateful for that. Like Nelson Mandela once famously said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” As the first in my family to go to college, I navigated career and course planning independently. I embraced more rigorous science courses, which ignited a passion for learning and understanding human nature. I knew from an early age that I wanted to be involved in the healthcare field, but I’ve since narrowed my goal down to becoming a physician. I want to be the professional who is there in times of need for all people who need it, but especially for patients like my parents, who may not have the best healthcare literacy or speak the most English. I want to impact the healthcare world by using my first-generation background to help underserved communities. These families go through similar struggles that my family has gone through during my childhood, and I know what it’s like to be on the other side of that situation. I’d also like to eventually mentor students, similarly to how I have first-generation doctors who have mentored me and helped me get to the point where I am at today. To make sure I reach my goals, I focus heavily on my academics. I am currently on track to graduate in 2026 from the University of Missouri with a bachelors of science in mathematics, and a bachelors of science in biological sciences with an emphasis in medical science and human biology. Upon graduating, it is my hope to go back home to St. Louis and attend one of the medical schools there, either at Washington University in Saint Louis or Saint Louis University. As of right now, though, I am one of ten students who currently hold a seat in the University of Missouri-Columbia School of Medicine’s entering fall class of 2026. This is thanks to the PAWS program, an initiative that gives first-generation students access to medical education. If I don’t get to go home to St. Louis for my medical school years, I will be close by in Columbia, and this is guaranteed. This scholarship would help cover the remaining balance on my account for the fall 2024 semester. I am grateful to have received some assistance for school through some grants and federal initiatives, but with tuition increases, I still have a couple thousand dollars that I owe to my school. Not to mention, by taking care of my tuition costs right now, I am going to better prepare myself for the inevitable hundreds of thousands of dollars of debt that I am going to be in due to medical school. Being the winner of the Alberta Bean Memorial Scholarship would mean less hours I’d need to clock in at work, and more time I could use to study the human body and ensure I am on track to becoming the best physician I can be. In time and with dedication, it will be my honor to use my background as a child of immigrants to provide compassionate care to everyone, including refugees who face similar disadvantages today. This scholarship would help me make my dreams become reality, and I am delighted to be considered for an outstanding opportunity, carrying on the legacy of the incredible Ms. Alberta Bean.

In the vast realm of academia, my journey into the fields of mathematics and biology has been fueled by a fervent passion to uncover the intricate connections that underpin the very fabric of life. As a double major on the pre-medical track, my decision to pursue STEM is not merely a confluence of chance but a deliberate choice driven by a profound desire to explore, innovate, and ultimately make a lasting impact in the scientific community. The elegant dance between equations and biological phenomena captivated my imagination, prompting me to delve deeper into the realms of both subjects. The beauty of mathematics, with its abstract elegance, and the complexity of biology, with its living intricacies, became the twin pillars upon which I decided to construct my academic journey. It turns out that differential equations actually are used in real life (contrary to popular belief)! The precision of mathematical structures provides a framework for understanding the underlying order of the universe. I am drawn to the idea that mathematical concepts serve as a universal language, a means of decoding the complexities of the biological systems that surround us. From modeling population dynamics to elucidating the patterns of genetic inheritance, mathematics serves as a powerful tool to navigate the intricate tapestry of life. Simultaneously, biology beckons with the promise of discovery and the potential to unravel the secrets of existence. My fascination with the biological sciences lies in the pursuit of understanding life at its most fundamental level. Through courses in molecular biology, genetics, and physiology, I am equipped with the knowledge to explore the intricate mechanisms that govern living organisms. The prospect of contributing to the field of medicine by deciphering the complexities of diseases and developing innovative solutions is a driving force that propels my academic endeavors. As a woman in STEM, I am acutely aware of the gender disparities that persist within these fields. Unfortunately, I personally saw these differences while being involved in a research lab on campus. While I was excited to be in a lab that was exploring cancer biology, the rest of the girls and I were stuck refilling pipette tips for the gel electrophoresis that the boys in the lab got to run. I did not put up with this treatment and left that lab, even though it was an interesting study. Yet, rather than viewing my gender as a barrier, I see it as an opportunity to be a catalyst for change. Since leaving the other research lab, I have joined a new one where my differences have been appreciated. I am actively challenging stereotypes and breaking down the barriers that have historically hindered women from fully participating in STEM disciplines. My work is not done yet, though. Through the seamless integration of mathematics and biology, I hope to contribute to the scientific community and make a difference as a woman in STEM by becoming a physician-scientist. I hope to do meaningful research and treat diseases in ways that haven’t been thought of before, while hopefully causing a jump up from the current low 37% of the physician-scientist woman population.

As a first-generation Bosnian-Muslim student double majoring in math and biology, I've come to understand the profound importance of mental health in my academic journey. For me, mental health isn't just a buzzword or a fleeting concern; it's the very foundation upon which I build my aspirations, dreams, and future. In the demanding world of academia, the concept of balance is often elusive. Juggling complex coursework, research, and the expectations of a first-generation student can be an overwhelming experience. However, I've discovered that maintaining my mental wellness is key to excelling in my studies. Growing up, my parents, who had immigrated to the United States from war-torn Bosnia, instilled in me the value of education as a means of transcending adversity. This legacy, laden with hopes and dreams, now rests on my shoulders as I navigate the rigorous terrain of college. The weight of their expectations, combined with my ambitions, makes the preservation of my mental wellness a non-negotiable priority. At the heart of my belief in the importance of mental health lies the understanding that it forms the bedrock of all my endeavors. It's not a luxury but a necessity, akin to a vital organ in my body. Just as my heart pumps blood to keep me alive, my mental health fuels my capacity to learn, to adapt, and to persevere in the face of academic challenges. One of the primary ways I sustain my mental health is through mindfulness practices. Meditation and exercise provide me with the essential tools to stay grounded in the present moment, allowing me to manage stress and anxiety effectively. These practices not only help me stay focused during exams and assignments but also contribute to my overall well-being. Another critical aspect of maintaining mental wellness is seeking support and connection. Being a Muslim student in a predominantly non-Muslim environment can sometimes feel isolating. Therefore, I actively engage with student organizations and communities that share my cultural and religious background. These connections provide me with a sense of belonging, enabling me to navigate the complexities of college life with a strong support network. Furthermore, I place a high value on seeking professional help when needed. The stigma around mental health in many immigrant and minority communities can be formidable, but I am determined to break that barrier. I've sought counseling services on campus, which have proven to be invaluable in helping me cope with the pressures of double majoring. Speaking with my therapist allows me to gain insights into my thought processes and develop healthier coping mechanisms. But perhaps the most crucial aspect of preserving my mental health is the power of self-compassion. I've come to realize that it's okay to have setbacks, to struggle, and to occasionally feel overwhelmed. Being kind to myself during these moments, instead of harsh self-criticism, allows me to bounce back with renewed determination. I've learned that nurturing my mental wellness is not just a matter of personal preference; it's a duty I owe to my parents, to myself, and to the dreams that have been entrusted to me. In conclusion, my journey has illuminated the vital importance of mental health in my life. Through mindfulness practices, seeking support and connection, professional help, time management, physical health, and self-compassion, I've discovered the tools that enable me to maintain my mental wellness. In doing so, I not only honor my heritage and the sacrifices of my parents but also empower myself to navigate the challenges of academia with resilience, determination, and an unwavering belief in the significance of mental health.

As a first-generation Bosnian-Muslim student pursuing a double major in mathematics and biology with dreams of becoming a physician, I have come to understand the profound significance of helping others. My journey has been shaped by the values instilled in me by my family and the experiences that have molded my path. I am deeply committed to giving back to my community and beyond, and this scholarship would greatly assist me in continuing my mission of service. Growing up as a first-generation immigrant in the United States, I witnessed the sacrifices my parents made to provide my sister and me with better opportunities. Their unwavering support and determination have inspired me to strive for excellence and to utilize my education as a means of creating positive change in the world. My parents' journey from a war-torn country left in scraps to the "Land of Dreams" has taught me the value of resilience, determination, and the importance of helping others along the way. One of the most significant ways I have personally contributed to my community is through my involvement in our local mosque. Volunteering there has allowed me to connect with the youth by providing mentorship, guidance, and a safe space for them to grow. I've organized educational workshops, tutoring sessions, and cultural events that not only preserve our Bosnian traditions but also foster a sense of belonging and pride among the younger generation. Through this experience, I have witnessed the transformation of these young individuals into confident, empowered leaders who are ready to carry forward our cultural heritage. Another avenue through which I contribute to my community is by volunteering at vaccine clinics. This experience has been particularly impactful, as it allows me to directly assist those less fortunate. The COVID-19 pandemic has revealed the disparities in healthcare access and the urgent need to provide support to vulnerable populations. By participating in vaccine clinics, I am not only helping to combat the spread of the virus but also addressing the broader issue of healthcare inequality. This firsthand experience has strengthened my commitment to pursuing a career in medicine. My involvement in vaccine clinics has allowed me to directly impact the health and well-being of underserved populations, making a tangible difference in their lives. These experiences have not only enriched my life but have also left a lasting influence on those I've had the privilege to serve. They've reinforced my belief in the power of education, healthcare, and community engagement to bring positive change to individuals and society as a whole. Through my work, I have witnessed the profound influence that compassionate, culturally sensitive care can have on individuals from diverse backgrounds. My aspirations as a pre-medical student are rooted in my desire to make an indelible mark on people's lives. I believe that becoming a physician will provide me with the opportunity to offer not only medical expertise but also compassion, empathy, and support to those in need. The importance of helping others is a value that has been woven into the fabric of my life. It is my firm belief that we are all interconnected, and by extending a helping hand, we create a stronger, more compassionate society. This scholarship would provide me with the financial support I need to continue my education and mission of service. With the knowledge and skills I gain through my double major in mathematics and biology, coupled with my determination to become a physician, I aspire to contribute meaningfully to the well-being of others and make a positive impact. I am grateful for the chance to share my journey and aspirations.

Addiction is a loophole that not only pains and impacts a single individual; addiction hurts everybody around the person who is addicted. Unfortunately, I can speak from experience. To preface, my family migrated to Saint Louis in the late 1990s and early 2000s in hopes of building a successful and stable life after a war in their home country, Bosnia and Herzegovina, tore apart everything that they had. This was true for my mother's and my father's sides of the family. They were left with absolutely no remnants of the life they had overseas. My parents, aunts, uncles, grandparents, cousins, and everyone I know that is older than me, have put in work in hopes of making my life a little easier in the states. I am grateful for the success everyone has created, but it doesn't come easy. My mother suffered through multiple months of emotional abuse from her father, who began drinking after they moved to America. My poor mother got the brunt of it. After her dad got drunk, he would lock her and her sister in their room for hours, just minutes before they were planning on going out, finding entertainment in their tears. She and her sister always hid the keys once they saw him grab the bottles, in fear that if he got into any vehicle, he would not end up home, or even worse, he'd prevent someone else from getting home. There were numerous instances where she told me about how he made her feel worthless, controlled, guilty and manipulated. But every time, when he sobered up the next morning, her dad would act like nothing out of the ordinary happened. The cycle of addiction fed into the cycle of abuse. This went on and on in my mom’s family for quite a while. My grandmother, aunt, mother, and multiple other cousins tried to intervene numerous times with no success. It is truly up to an addict to give something up in order to instill positive change in their lives. One day, I guess he woke up; everything changed. After weeks on end of rehabilitation, my grandpa finally got sober. He started to work, kept a stable job, and even bought a new house. Everything was better, and he made amends with his family. My mom was finally free. She went off and worked multiple jobs to try and support herself, and eventually, she got married to my dad. After that, my parents worked together to get us to where we are today. Of course, even though things were better, the past can’t be changed. I feel like it somewhat impacted the way that I was raised, but only in a positive manner. My mother does everything in her power to ensure my sister and I keep a good conscience and maintain stable mental health. This familial connection to addiction pushes me to create solutions for others so they don’t go through anything similar. I’m currently a freshman pre-medical student at the University of Missouri. I have always loved social work, volunteering, and being there for those around me. And there are plenty of ways to do that without becoming a doctor, but I am interested in diagnosing and treating mental health disorders before they lead to substance abuse. If my grandpa had these resources available to help with his PTSD, there’s a great possibility things would have turned out differently. My mom reminds us every day that what doesn’t kill us will only make us stronger individuals, and we thank her secondhand experience with overcoming addiction for her motivational and strong mentality.

During high school, I was unsure of what undergraduate programs I would apply to. I knew that I want to go into healthcare, so any STEM major sounded like a great idea. I was always passionate about learning about living systems and how the human body worked; thus, a major in biological sciences was a no-brainer. At the same time, I was always quite stellar at math and enjoyed the process of learning how to be a problem-solver. The complex world of medicine will not always have an answer that presents itself as a “one size fits all” solution. Rather, critical thinking skills are required to tend to every patient differently. With my future career plans in mind, I settled on a double major, including mathematics. Biology will cover the facts I need to know in order to get into medical school, but mathematics will teach me how to look at situations from multiple outside-the-box perspectives. But why would I have such a strong desire to go into medicine in these times, where everyone is short-staffed, personnel are abused by the system, burnout is high, student debt is impossible to pay back, etc.? My very own grandfather was a frequent flyer in and out of the cardiology ICU during his final years. What started out as some brain fog turned into a stroke that I personally found him in. It was a regular day in 2011 when I was 7 years old, and my sister was 3. We were too young to stay at home alone, so my grandpa cared for us. My parents, being immigrants, had no choice but to go to work every day in order to keep the roof over our heads. Anyhow, I woke up to my grandfather collapsed on the ground, calling my name. To this day, I’m amazed by what adrenaline can do. Allah SWT gave me the strength and knowledge at 7 years old, to lift my heavy grandpa onto my back, get him onto his bed, and call for emergency services then my parents. If I hadn’t, the effects of the stroke would have turned out worse. My family was incredibly grateful for my actions. Unfortunately my grandfather would only get better temporarily. His stroke turned into pulmonary edema, which then caused his heart to become weaker. After a long and hard battle for life, his soul returned to its Creator in 2014. Although this came with trauma and grief, I want to be on the other side, doing everything I possibly can in order to give a family more time with their loved ones. The doctors and nurses my grandfather had were phenomenal; they truly inspired me to want to be them. Today, I have already begun volunteering at clinics and hospitals whenever I get the chance. Typically these are trivial tasks, but if it means making someone’s life easier, I’ll complete them. Of course, it requires years of training to become a physician, which takes copious amounts of strength. My parents have aided me on my journey thus far. I am blessed to have them working hard to provide everything that they didn’t have. Throughout my life, they placed a large emphasis on how important it is to be educated, especially being a first-generation student. So has the Quran (96:1-5). Recently, practicing Islam more closely has caused me to make greater efforts to be kind, charitable, and thankful. Being Muslim means selflessness is a vital moral, for the love of others. Remembering this gives my spirit a sense of peace, and the mental capacity to keep pursuing my dreams InshAllah.

Addiction is a loophole that not only pains and impacts a single individual; addiction hurts everybody around the person who is addicted. Unfortunately, I can speak from experience. To preface, my family migrated to Saint Louis in the late 1990s and early 2000s in hopes of building a successful and stable life after a war in their home country, Bosnia and Herzegovina, tore apart everything that they had. This was true for my mother's and my father's sides of my family. They were left with absolutely no remnants of the life they had overseas. My parents, aunts, uncles, grandparents, cousins, and everyone I know that is older than me, have put in work in hopes of making my life a little easier in the states. I am grateful for the success everyone has created, but it doesn't come easy. My mother suffered through multiple months of emotional abuse from her father, who began drinking after they moved to America. My poor mother got the brunt of it. After her dad got drunk, he would lock her and her sister in their room for hours, just minutes before they were planning on going out, finding entertainment in their tears. Her and her sister always hid the keys once they saw him grab the bottles, in fear that if he got into any vehicle, he would not end up home, or even worse, he'd prevent someone else from getting home. There were numerous instances where she told me about how he made her feel worthless, controlled, guilty, and manipulated. But every time, when he sobered up the next morning, her dad would act like nothing out of the ordinary happened. The cycle of addiction fed into the cycle of abuse. This went on and on in my mom’s family for quite a while. My grandmother, aunt, mother, and multiple other cousins tried to intervene numerous times with no success. It is truly up to an addict to give something up in order to instill positive change in their lives. One day, I guess he woke up; everything changed. After weeks on end of rehabilitation, my grandpa finally got sober. He started to work, kept a stable job, and even bought a new house. Everything was better, and he made amends with his family. My mom was finally free. She went off and worked multiple jobs to try and support herself, and eventually she got married to my dad. After that, they worked together to get us to where we are today. Of course, even though things were better, the past can’t be changed. I feel like it somewhat impacted the way that I was raised, but only in a positive manner. My mom does everything in her power to ensure my sister and I keep a good conscious and maintain stable mental health. This familial connection to addiction pushes me to create solutions for others so they don’t have to go through anything similar. I’m currently a freshman pre-medical student at the University of Missouri. I have always loved social work, volunteering, and being there for those around me. And there are plenty of ways to do that without becoming a doctor, but I am interested in diagnosing and treating mental health disorders before they lead to substance abuse. If my grandpa had these resources available to help with his PTSD, there’s a great possibility things would have turned out differently. My mom reminds us everyday that what doesn’t kill us will only make us stronger individuals, and we thank her secondhand experience with overcoming addiction for her motivational and strong mentality.