What is something you love about your school? I love to learn, learning has opened new ways of thinking opportunities for me. I have learned how to deal with difficult situations, developed critical thinking skills, learned how to interact with my classmates and most importantly I have created a vision for myself and my community.
How did you choose your major? I have taken a variety of science classes and I have always had a passion and interest for learning about the nerves, brain, and spinal cord, which led to my decision to study neuroscience.
What is your relationship with your ZF coach like/In what ways have they helped you? I have enjoyed having thoughtful conversations with my ZF coach. Dave has helped advise me on how to navigate college, encouraged me to apply for scholarships, pushed me to continue working hard in school. He saw potential in me, which motivated me to keep on pursuing my life goals.
What hobbies/extracurriculars/other interests do you have? I love to read, crochet, go on walks, and spend time at home. Reading helps me practice analyzing different perspectives, learn from characters the ways I can approach different situations. Overall, reading has been a source of inspiration in life. I wanted to learn how to crochet because it seemed like a cool skill. Crocheting was difficult at first, but as I practiced more frequently I started to enjoy it. Now I use crocheting as a coping mechanism and way to unwind.
Why did you apply to ZF/what drew you to this organization? I applied to ZF because this organization shares the same values that I hold in my heart. I aspire to be a leader in my community and to do that I need to have integrity, honesty, and responsibility. This organization will not only help with my education but also contribute to the development of my character, which is beneficial for my future.
What impact has ZF had on your academic and professional career thus far? The Zenie Foundation has already had a major impact on my life by guiding me through my academics and with advice on the steps I need to take to pursue my dream career. In the future, I hope to use the skills that I have learned from the Zenie Foundation to become a role model for the youth and create positive changes in my community.
Tell us something you are excited about! I am excited to go to college because I am thrilled to be surrounded by a lot of opportunities. I am excited to meet new people and to do many activities, clubs, and internships that put me out of my comfort zone to become the person I want to be.
Tell us about a time you made yourself proud. A time I made myself proud was when I received recognition in seventh grade for being a quiet leader. It made me feel more confident in my abilities to become a leader and a neurosurgeon in the future. I used to be a shy person, and although I did a lot of great things, I would keep these actions to myself because I was afraid of getting attention. When I eventually received acknowledgment of my leadership skills, it encouraged me to become more outgoing and to welcome future recognitions.
Tell us about some of your career aspirations. It’s totally ok if you aren’t sure yet! This can be as specific or as general as you want. My career aspirations are to make a positive impact on society and to learn plenty of skills to become an effective adult in my career, family, and community. Someday I will become a representative of my community, by working hard to become a neurosurgeon who improves the quality of healthcare and hospital conditions. I hope to create cures for the deadly diseases that occur in the brain, spinal cord, and nerves and ultimately make a meaningful impact in the world of medicine.
Who is a role model for you/someone that you look up to and why? A role model for me is my mother because she always reminds me to stay positive and work hard despite the challenges that may come my way. She has taught me the importance of having morals and learning how to be comfortable in my own skin. She has helped me establish my identity and always reminds me to stay loving and spread love throughout my everyday life.