One of my most memorable outdoor experiences has been working with the Green Team in my school’s Environmental Science Club, where I had the opportunity to create terrariums and gather plants from local environments. This hands-on project not only introduced me to the beauty of nature but also helped me develop a deeper appreciation for the environment and the importance of sustainability. The project began with a group of us going out into local parks and nature reserves, searching for plants that could thrive in the controlled environment of a terrarium. We carefully collected specimens, paying attention to the needs of each plant—its light, moisture, and soil preferences. We learned how to balance the terrariums so that the plants would flourish, and I was amazed by how much care and attention it took to create a mini ecosystem. This experience helped me understand the delicate balance in nature and how even small actions can make a big impact on the environment. Working on the terrariums also taught me the importance of patience and observation. Unlike other school projects, this one required us to monitor the plants over time, noticing how they adapted to their environment and how slight changes in temperature, humidity, or light could affect their growth. It was a reminder that change is gradual and that meaningful progress often requires steady, consistent effort. This lesson has stuck with me in all aspects of my life, from academic projects to personal goals. In terms of applying this experience to my own life’s journey, it has shaped the way I approach challenges. The process of creating a thriving terrarium wasn’t just about placing plants into a container—it was about nurturing an environment where each element could thrive in its own way. I’ve carried this mindset with me, whether it’s been in how I manage my academic work, approach group projects, or even how I balance my time. I’ve learned that success is often about creating the right conditions for growth, not forcing things to happen too quickly or too rigidly. Additionally, working with the Green Team has instilled in me a greater sense of responsibility toward the environment. It’s made me more conscious of how we impact the natural world around us, and how small, mindful actions can contribute to preserving it. This experience sparked my interest in environmental conservation, and I’ve since become more involved in sustainable practices both in my personal life and through my school’s initiatives. Overall, this outdoor experience has had a lasting impact on my life. It taught me about patience, balance, and the importance of sustainability—values I carry with me today and hope to integrate into my future career and personal life. The hands-on learning and connection with nature have shaped how I approach challenges, and I’ll continue to use these lessons as I move forward.

I’m a passionate and driven high school senior with a deep interest in both mental health and music. Throughout my life, I’ve been fascinated by how the mind works and how emotions shape our experiences. My love for music has always been a big part of who I am, whether I’m playing instruments, singing, or exploring new musical styles. Over time, I’ve realized that my future lies at the intersection of these two passions—specifically in the field of pediatric psychiatry with a focus on music therapy. I believe that by integrating music into mental health care, I can make a meaningful impact on young patients and help them navigate their emotional challenges in creative ways. I’ve spent time volunteering with children who face emotional difficulties, and I’ve seen firsthand how therapeutic activities like music can help them express themselves when words fall short. This experience has inspired me to pursue a career in pediatric psychiatry, where I can incorporate music therapy to support children’s mental health. I’m determined to study both psychiatry and music therapy at the university level, and I’m excited to learn how I can combine these fields to develop innovative treatment methods that could improve the lives of young people struggling with mental health issues. This scholarship will play a crucial role in helping me pursue my academic and career goals. It will ease the financial burden of tuition, allowing me to focus on my studies without the added stress of financial concerns. With this support, I can take full advantage of the educational opportunities available to me, including pursuing research projects, gaining clinical experience, and participating in extracurricular activities related to my field of interest. Ultimately, I plan to use the scholarship to further my knowledge in both psychiatry and music therapy, and I hope to use that knowledge to make a positive impact on children’s mental health care. I’m incredibly grateful for this opportunity and excited about the future. With the help of this scholarship, I will be able to follow my passion, expand my understanding of how music can be used to heal. I will also be able to conduct research projects and find new kinds of music therapies and expand my horizons. This will help me take one step closer to my goal of becoming a pediatric psychiatrist who incorporates music therapy into treatment, thus helping all the kids struggling in the world.

From a young age, I’ve been fascinated by the connection between the mind and emotions, especially in how they shape behavior and well-being. This curiosity about the brain and how it influences our lives is what initially drew me to medicine. Over time, I realized that my true passion lies in psychiatry, particularly pediatric psychiatry, with a focus on integrating music therapy into treatment. This combination speaks to both my deep interest in mental health and my lifelong love for music, which has always been a source of comfort and expression for me. Music has been a constant in my life, whether I was playing instruments, singing in choirs, or participating in school musicals. It became an outlet for emotional expression, helping me navigate stress and difficult moments. As I learned more about the positive effects of music on mental health, I became inspired by the idea of using music as a therapeutic tool. I found that music therapy could be a powerful way to help people, especially children, cope with emotional struggles when words alone might not be enough. This realization led me to combine my interests in psychiatry and music therapy, aiming to make a lasting impact on the lives of young patients. My desire to pursue pediatric psychiatry stems from my belief in the importance of early intervention. Childhood is a crucial time for emotional and psychological development, and addressing mental health challenges early can have a significant, long-term impact. During my volunteer work with children facing emotional difficulties, I saw how music could help them express themselves and process their feelings in a way that traditional therapy sometimes couldn’t. This experience convinced me that music therapy is an invaluable tool in treating young patients with mental health issues like anxiety, depression, trauma, and autism spectrum disorders. I believe music therapy can offer children a unique way to communicate and cope with their emotions, providing them with a sense of control and achievement. My goal is to integrate music therapy into pediatric psychiatric care, helping children express themselves and work through their struggles in a creative, non-threatening way. I want to further my education in both psychiatry and music therapy, so I can contribute to developing new treatment methods that combine the therapeutic power of music with traditional psychiatric care. Ultimately, I hope to advocate for the use of music therapy in mental health care, working to expand its availability to young patients and supporting research into its effectiveness. By combining these fields, I aim to create a space where children can heal, express themselves, and grow emotionally, helping them develop the resilience they need to thrive.

One situation where I exemplified the ethical pillar occurred during a community service project I participated in last year through my high school. Our school partnered with a local charity to organize a fundraising event aimed at providing school supplies, clothes, and food to underprivileged families in our area. As part of the event’s planning committee, I was tasked with coordinating volunteers and helping manage logistics on the day of the event. During the setup, one of the other volunteers suggested that we should take some of the donations meant for the families—specifically, a portion of the food and supplies—and use them for our own lunch and personal expenses since the event wouldn’t start for several hours. At first, the idea was met with some agreement by a few volunteers who felt it would be a harmless way to make sure we were well-fed and prepared for the long day ahead. However, I immediately recognized the ethical dilemma this suggestion posed. The money and items we were handling were intended for the people in need, not for us. While it may have seemed like a small, inconsequential decision, I knew it was important to maintain the integrity of the event and ensure that we acted in the best interest of those the event was meant to serve. I decided to speak up and explain my concerns to the group. I calmly expressed that taking donations for ourselves would not only be unfair to the families we were trying to help, but it could also damage the credibility of the event. I emphasized that as volunteers, we had a responsibility to honor the intent of the donations and to demonstrate integrity throughout the process. I also suggested an alternative—using leftover supplies from the event (like extra snacks and water) to ensure we stayed nourished, or simply purchasing our own food. I made sure to explain that we could always find other ways to take care of ourselves without compromising the cause we were there to support. At first, some of the volunteers were hesitant and unsure whether it would be worth the effort to change the plan. However, after further discussion, they agreed that we should stay true to the event’s purpose and respect the generosity of the donors. Together, we decided to stick to the original plan and ensure that the donations went entirely toward the families. The fundraising event itself was a success, and we were able to provide much-needed supplies to over 50 families. More importantly, I believe my actions helped set a standard for ethical behavior within the group. While standing up for what’s right wasn’t always the easiest path, it was the one that reflected our shared commitment to the cause. My willingness to address the issue and guide the group toward doing the right thing not only helped maintain the integrity of the event but also reinforced the importance of acting ethically in all aspects of life. This experience taught me the value of ethical decision-making, even in situations where the consequences may not seem immediately obvious. It reinforced the idea that our actions have a ripple effect on others, and maintaining ethical standards is crucial, both in personal and professional contexts. By sticking to what was right, we ensured that the event was not only a success in terms of fundraising but also in terms of the values it represented.

To me, success isn’t just about getting good grades or making a lot of money. It’s more about finding something I’m passionate about, growing as a person, and making a positive impact in the world around me. I think success is about being true to yourself and always trying to improve, whether it's in school, relationships, or personal growth. What sets me apart from some people is that I focus less on just checking off accomplishments and more on how I can learn from every experience. Some people might define success by how others see them—like getting into the "best" college or having the most followers—but for me, it’s about being proud of my progress, no matter how small, and not being afraid to mess up along the way. I see failure as a lesson, not something to be ashamed of. I believe this mindset will help me succeed in life because I’m not looking for quick wins. Instead, I’m focused on building a strong foundation for the future—whether that’s developing skills, learning new things, or building real relationships. I think staying patient, being open to learning, and staying true to my values will help me stay grounded and keep moving forward, no matter what challenges come my way.

As a high school senior, I had the opportunity to demonstrate kindness in a way that profoundly impacted both my peers and myself. One instance that stands out is my involvement in organizing a tutoring program for underclassmen struggling with their studies. This initiative not only helped those in need but also fostered a sense of community and collaboration within our school. The idea for the tutoring program began during my junior year when I noticed that several of my friends and classmates were struggling with their grades. As someone who had always found academics relatively manageable, I felt a growing sense of responsibility to help those who were finding it difficult. The problem was evident: while our school had resources available, many students were either unaware of them or hesitant to seek help due to embarrassment or lack of confidence. After discussing this with a few close friends, we decided to take action. We approached our school administration with a proposal to create a peer tutoring program. Initially, there were concerns about the feasibility and sustainability of the program. However, after presenting a detailed plan outlining the benefits, logistics, and potential impact, we gained approval and support from the school. The next step was to recruit volunteers. We reached out to students who had demonstrated academic excellence and a willingness to help others. The response was overwhelmingly positive. Many of our peers were eager to contribute and make a difference, and soon we had a group of dedicated tutors ready to assist. To ensure the program's effectiveness, we organized training sessions for the tutors. These sessions covered effective teaching strategies, communication skills, and how to create a supportive and encouraging environment for the students they would be helping. We also set up a scheduling system to match tutors with students based on their specific needs and subjects. One of the most rewarding aspects of the program was witnessing the direct impact it had on both the tutors and the students. For example, Sarah, a sophomore who had been struggling with math, was paired with Jake, a senior with a strong background in mathematics. Sarah's initial frustration and anxiety gradually transformed into confidence and enthusiasm as she began to understand the material better. Jake's patient and encouraging approach made her feel valued and capable, which was crucial for her self-esteem. Similarly, the tutors themselves found the experience enriching. Many reported a sense of fulfillment from being able to help others and make a positive difference in their peers' lives. They developed not only teaching skills but also a greater sense of empathy and understanding. The program created a supportive community where students could share their challenges and successes, breaking down barriers and fostering a culture of mutual respect and collaboration. As the program continued to grow, we expanded its scope to include group study sessions and workshops on study skills, time management, and stress reduction. These additions provided students with a more comprehensive support system, addressing various aspects of their academic lives. The impact of the program extended beyond improved grades. Students who participated reported increased self-confidence and a greater sense of belonging within the school community. Teachers also noticed a positive change in the classroom environment, with more students actively engaging and supporting each other. The program's success was evident in the increased academic performance and overall morale among students. Reflecting on this experience, I realized that the act of kindness extended far beyond the individual interactions between tutors and students. It was about creating a supportive environment where everyone felt valued and empowered to reach their full potential. The program demonstrated that small acts of kindness, when multiplied and organized effectively, can lead to significant positive changes within a community. The personal growth I experienced through this initiative was also profound. I learned valuable lessons in leadership, organization, and empathy. I gained a deeper appreciation for the diverse challenges my peers faced and developed a stronger sense of responsibility towards my community. The experience reaffirmed my belief in the power of collective effort and the impact of kindness in creating a more supportive and inclusive environment. In the end, the tutoring program became a testament to the idea that kindness, when applied thoughtfully and with genuine concern for others, can lead to meaningful and lasting change. It was a reminder that each of us has the capacity to make a difference, and sometimes, the most impactful actions are those that come from a place of empathy and a desire to help others succeed. The success of the program was not just in the improved grades or increased confidence of the students but in the way it brought people together and fostered a sense of community. It showed that kindness, combined with a clear vision and dedication, can create positive ripples that extend far beyond our initial intentions.

Quote from "The Awakening" by Kate Chopin - "She could see the sun and the blue sky through the misty water. The waves were rolling in with a gentle motion, as though they were trying to coax her to stay. She felt like a new person, free from all the constraints of her past life, as though she were awakening from a long, dark sleep.” Analysis - In this passage from The Awakening, Kate Chopin uses vivid imagery to show how Edna Pontellier is beginning to understand and embrace her own freedom. The quote is important because it highlights a key moment when Edna feels a deep sense of change and renewal. First, the imagery of “the sun and the blue sky through the misty water” is significant. The sun and sky often represent clarity and new beginnings. Here, they symbolize the fresh perspective that Edna is starting to have. The “misty water” suggests that before this moment, Edna’s view of her life was unclear and obscured by confusion and societal expectations of being a wife and a mother. The transition from mist to clear sky shows how Edna is starting to see things more clearly and understand her own desires. The description of the waves “rolling in with a gentle motion” that seem to “coax her to stay” adds to this feeling of new beginnings. The gentle waves suggest that Edna’s transformation is gradual and natural, not sudden or forced. These feelings of unhappiness with her predictable life have been slowly brewing within her. The waves inviting her to stay symbolize the comfort and support she is beginning to feel as she explores her new sense of freedom. When Edna says she feels “like a new person, free from all the constraints of her past life,” it shows how her perception of herself is changing. She feels like she’s finally escaping the limitations that society and her old life placed on her. This new sense of freedom is crucial because it marks the beginning of Edna’s journey to discover her own identity and desires. It is the beginning of her journey away from the path of motherhood and being a wife society has set for her, and the journey into a more independent way of thinking. The comparison of this experience to “awakening from a long, dark sleep” is powerful. It means that Edna feels like she’s been asleep or unaware for a long time, simply going through the motions of her daily life. But now, she’s finally waking up to her true self. This metaphor highlights how significant and transformative this moment is for her. Additionally, Chopin’s choice to describe Edna’s emotions in such a serene setting enhances the depth of her transformation. The calm and inviting nature of the waves contrasts with the turbulent emotions Edna has felt before, emphasizing how her newfound freedom feels peaceful and natural. This juxtaposition between past turmoil and present tranquility displays the magnitude of her personal growth and her shift towards a more fulfilling and self-determined life. Overall, this passage captures a turning point for Edna Pontellier in The Awakening. Kate Chopin artfully shows her moving from confusion and constraint to a new understanding of herself and her freedom. The imagery of the sun, sky, and waves represents this change, and the metaphor of awakening emphasizes how profound her transformation truly is. This moment is crucial in the novel because it represents Edna’s shift towards living a more authentic and self-determined life. She is finally leaving the path society has determined for her, and has decided to live a more independent life, which is huge in that time period. It goes without saying, that Kate Chopin was a mastermind who was able to convey this message through elaborate figurative language.

I want to go into the medical field, specifically psychiatry. This is because mental health is a very important topic for me and I want to give back to the world that has supported me unconditionally. Growing up as an Asian, I saw how mental health is often a topic people avoid bringing up. My own experience with anxiety was tough. I faced lots of challenges and struggles to cope with it. But I was lucky to have a strong and unconditional support system from family and friends. Unfortunately, not everyone in the Asian community is as fortunate. In many Asian cultures, mental health is still a taboo topic, and people often struggle alone without getting the help they need. In many Asian cultures, there’s a belief that mental health problems are a sign of weakness, so people might feel ashamed or afraid to talk about their struggles. This stigma can make it challenging for people to seek help, which only makes their problems worse. I have firsthand knowledge of how much having a supportive network has helped me manage my anxiety, and I can imagine how different and difficult it might be for someone who doesn’t have that kind of support. As a future psychiatrist, I want to change this issue by spreading awareness and educating people about the importance of mental health. I want to help break down the barriers and stigmas that prevent people from seeking help and show them that talking to a mental health professional is a positive step. By making mental health a topic that people can openly discuss, I hope to reduce the stigma and encourage more people to get the support that they need. In addition to raising awareness, I also plan to open my own private practice one day. My goal is to provide low-cost or even free mental health care for people who can’t afford it but need help. I know that financial barriers can often keep people from getting the care they need, so I want to ensure that anyone who needs support can access it without worrying about the cost. In my practice, I will focus on creating a welcoming and understanding environment. I want to make sure that people from all backgrounds feel comfortable coming to see me, especially those who might be dealing with mental health issues but haven’t had the opportunity to talk about them before. I believe that everyone deserves to feel heard and supported, and I want to be part of making that happen. Becoming a psychiatrist is more than just a career choice for me; it’s a way to give back to my community and help others who might be struggling with similar issues. By educating people about mental health and offering affordable care, I hope to make a real difference in the lives of those who need it most. Everyone deserves to have support and access to help, and I am determined to play a part in making that a reality.

Ever since I first discovered my interest in the medical field, I have spoken to a plethora of healthcare workers. More specifically, I have interacted with several doctors and nurses. And most of them say similar things in terms of problems with the healthcare system. Most notably, one of the most significant challenges impacting the quality of patient care is the overwhelming burden of documentation and administrative tasks that doctors and nurses face. This administrative workload, essential for ensuring accurate medical records and complying with regulations, has inadvertently led to a decline in the quality of patient interactions. Physicians and nurses are increasingly finding themselves entering data into hospital files and records, rather than engaging directly with their patients. This shift has profound implications for both healthcare professionals and those they serve. The pressure to maintain comprehensive and accurate records has become a substantial part of medical practice. Doctors and nurses spend a considerable portion of their day filing data into the hospital records, a process that often feels cumbersome and time-consuming. The intention behind this extensive documentation is to improve continuity of care, make information sharing easier, and comply with regulation. However, the reality is that these requirements can hinder the time available for patient care. Many healthcare professionals that I have spoken with express frustration over the administrative demands that limit their potentially meaningful interactions with patients. They report feeling that their role has shifted from being caregivers to data entry clerks, which can be disheartening and diminish job satisfaction. On the other hand, patients are unhappy with the shorter consultation times and the sense of being undervalued. Patients frequently feel that their healthcare providers are more focused on their computer screens than on them, leading to a feeling of detachment and lack of personalized attention. The hurried nature of these interactions can result in incomplete communication of symptoms, concerns, or personal health histories. This drastically impacts the quality of care received. When doctors and nurses are preoccupied with documentation, patients may not receive the thorough evaluation and empathetic listening that are crucial for effective diagnosis and treatment. This disconnect between patient needs and provider availability highlights a critical area for improve in the healthcare system. To address this issue, it is essential to explore solutions that can reduce the administrative burden on healthcare professionals. One potential approach is to streamline these filing systems to make data entry more efficient and less time-consuming. For instance, potentially implementing voice recognition software or improved templates can expedite this process while allowing for more direct patient interactions. Additionally, investing in support staff or scribes that can handle the information filing may alleviate some of the pressure on doctors and nurses. In conclusion, addressing the imbalance between administrative duties and patient care is crucial to improving the quality of healthcare. By alleviating the burden of documentation, healthcare providers can utilize valuable time to engage more deeply with their patients, ultimately enhancing the overall patient experience and satisfaction. A healthcare system that values both efficient record-keeping and meaningful patient interactions is likely to foster better health outcomes and greater professional fulfillment among its practitioners.