Fueling My Future: Aspirations for the Year Ahead by Christina

Fueling My Future: Aspirations for the Year Ahead by Christina - August 2025 Scholarship Essay

As I begin my first year at Clayton State University, I carry more than just books and goals—I carry the hopes of my family, the lessons of my past, and the drive to create a future I’ve always dreamed of. My aspiration for this upcoming school year is to lay a strong academic foundation for my biology (pre-med) major while continuing to grow as a focused, service-driven, and resilient young Black woman pursuing a career in medicine.

One of my top goals is to maintain a high GPA—ideally 3.8 or above. I understand how competitive the medical field is, and I want to make sure I’m fully prepared for what’s ahead, including internships, research opportunities, and eventually the MCAT. To support this, I plan to take advantage of campus tutoring centers, stay on top of readings and labs, and work closely with academic advisors to make sure I’m on the right path for medical school. Time management will be essential, especially since I plan to take summer classes to accelerate my degree and stay financially efficient.

In addition to academics, I want to begin volunteering or shadowing in healthcare settings to gain early exposure to the realities of patient care. Since I want to become an obstetrician and help reduce the alarming maternal mortality rates affecting Black women, I’m motivated to learn from professionals who are already doing the work. Whether I get to observe hospital routines or assist in community health events, I know that real-world experience will give me clarity, confidence, and purpose.

Another aspiration is to stay involved in student organizations related to health and leadership. In high school, I was a member of HOSA and gained valuable insight into healthcare careers, teamwork, and communication. I hope to find similar organizations at Clayton State and possibly take on leadership roles as I grow more confident on campus. I believe these extracurriculars help shape well-rounded doctors—not just in skill, but in compassion and community impact.

What motivates me to achieve all of this comes down to one simple truth: I don’t have a safety net. My family’s income is limited, and I’ve worked hard to get here—balancing a full-time job at Taco Bell while earning straight A’s my senior year. I’ve seen firsthand what it looks like when people don’t have access to quality healthcare or education. My motivation is rooted in love for my community and a determination to break generational cycles. I want to prove that young women like me—Black, low-income, and determined—belong in science, in medicine, and in leadership.

I also want to make my younger self proud. The little girl who used to pretend she was a doctor with toy stethoscopes deserves to see herself thrive in real scrubs one day. Every quiz I pass, every lab I complete, and every hour I study brings me one step closer to that dream.

This school year, I plan to push through every challenge, celebrate every win (no matter how small), and never lose sight of why I started this journey. I know it won’t be easy—but I’ve never needed easy. I just need opportunity, and I’m ready to make the most of it.