"After feeling the rush that coursed through me, I knew that the medical field was for me."- Itzel O., 2020 Scholarship Winner
Short Essay
I have decided to attend Arizona State University College of Health Solutions where I will be majoring in medical studies to eventually become a Pediatric Physician. Ever since I was little, I knew I wanted to work with children, so I know that no matter where life takes me, I will be pursuing a career where I help kids. I used to say I wanted to become a teacher. All of my teachers throughout my school years have left a positive impact on me and I wanted to do the same one day. It wasn’t until middle school when I saw how poorly some teachers would get treated that I decided to not become an educator.
"In November of 2018, I was diagnosed with a Chronic Kidney Disease. Now, I don’t mention this for your pity, but to share my experience with the health care workers."
- Itzel O.
In 8th grade one of my friends suffered a severe asthma attack, all of my friends were too scared to help her, but I was the only one who managed to help her and get her to the nurse. After feeling the rush that that coursed through me, I knew that the medical field was for me. I started being more and more interested in learning about the human body, and why we felt such pain, and how it functioned all together.
In November of 2018, I was diagnosed with a Chronic Kidney Disease. Now, I don’t mention this for your pity, but to share my experience with the health care workers. I stayed at the hospital for about four days. Throughout those days I saw numerous amount of doctors that I don’t have a clue of how many, but all I know is that they all treated me with the best care, they all gave me the certainty that everything was going to be okay no matter how scary the situation was. I got so swollen at one point that I couldn’t open my eyes, and, right before they put me down for full-body anesthesia I remember one of the doctors grabbing my hand and telling me to not worry, that she was going to help me out of this no matter what. I only remember her voice since I couldn’t see her, but sadly my case was moved on to another doctor after the biopsy since they deciphered what the issue was.
"Being active in college in areas besides the classroom can enrich my life. I intend to use what I learn in college to improve the quality of my social skills, working habits, and self."
- Andrea P.
This entire experience just convinced to become a doctor even more, till this day I continue having several appointments with doctors and I’ve created such a close bond with them, that I don't want to turn 18 because I won’t be considered a peds patient anymore which will lead to me seeing new doctors. I want to create this bond with someone but this time I’ll be the doctor helping them feel better. You asked me what I will do if I don’t stick with what I study, but I don’t have an answer for you, because in my heart I know this is my calling, and nothing in the world will change that. I want to help and serve people and be able to change their lives for better. Feel that sensation of adrenaline and peace all at once. I want to one day be a héroe to a little child, and for them to tell me that when they grow up, they want to be just like me.
- Itzel O.