Stepping Into My Calling by Angelica

Stepping Into My Calling by Angelica - August 2025 Scholarship Essay

As I begin my first year of college, I aspire to grow both academically and personally. I hope to build strong relationships with my peers and professors, develop healthy habits for independence, and explore opportunities that will shape my path toward a career in the medical field. I am excited to challenge myself in new ways to discover more about who I am and who I want to become. Academically, I am committed to challenging myself in every course and embracing the rigorous preparation required for a future in healthcare. This semester, I’m especially excited to take psychology — a subject that fascinates me. I’m eager to learn about the brain, behavior, and the ethical and legal aspects of psychology, which I believe will not only support my career goals but also help me better understand myself and those around me.

My motivation stems from the experiences I’ve had volunteering and interning at my local hospital. Shadowing physicians, nurses, and therapists opened my eyes to the emotional strength and scientific knowledge required in healthcare. I attended medical lectures, observed patient care across different departments, and witnessed the impact compassionate healthcare professionals have on their patients — especially children. These moments left a lasting impression on me and deepened my desire to give back to my community through medicine. Other than my experiences, my motivation comes from a genuine passion for learning, a commitment to service, and the belief that I can help create a healthier, more compassionate world. This year marks the beginning of that journey, and I’m excited to give it my full effort.

What truly motivates me are the people I’ve met during my internship and volunteer work at the local hospital. Through shadowing doctors, nurses, and therapists, I gained valuable clinical experience and insight into patient care. I also attended medical lectures that introduced me to real-life cases, public health challenges, and ethical dilemmas in healthcare. Witnessing the resilience of patients — especially children — and the compassion of healthcare professionals has inspired me to pursue medicine with even more determination. Beyond clinical exposure, my volunteer work has helped me develop strong interpersonal skills. Whether assisting patients in wheelchairs, delivering supplies, or offering a reassuring smile, I’ve learned the importance of empathy, communication, and presence. These are qualities I hope to continue developing throughout the school year, both inside and outside the classroom.

One of the most meaningful experiences I’ve had so far was organizing and leading two American Red Cross Blood Drives at my high school. The first drive collected 66 units of blood, potentially saving up to 198 lives. The second collected 76 units, benefiting over 100 patients. I was involved in every step from recruiting donors, managing logistics, checking people in, ensuring donor safety, and even handmaking thank-you notes. These events not only strengthened my leadership and organizational skills but also reaffirmed my calling to help others through healthcare.

In this first year, I also aspire to find new ways to serve my community, whether through volunteer programs, student organizations, or campus health initiatives. I want to build connections with mentors, explore research opportunities, and gain exposure to different aspects of medicine. Most importantly, I aim to step out of my comfort zone and grow into a confident, capable, and compassionate individual. This year, I am ready to take another step toward that dream by dedicating myself to my studies, building strong connections, and continuing to grow as a leader and learner.