As a pre-medicine major with minors in Chemistry and French, my hope for the near future is to become a plastic surgeon. Ever since I was younger, I have been fascinated with cosmetics science. I wanted to do something with my life that allowed my creativity to flourish side by side with my growing knowledge of biology and chemistry. The beauty industry itself, whether strictly medical or trendy, is constantly improving and modifying its scientific and medical techniques. As a high schooler, I began creating homemade, chemical-free hair, skin, nail, and facial products. I did this by using my Assyrian family's natural remedies. Oils, herbs, everything used in the village back home in Tur-Abdin. This hobby turned into a side business, and I fell in love with seeing my client's results. I loved it even more because I was able to implement my roots and educate my peers on the history of middle eastern beauty and remedies. My clients fell back in love with themselves after going through hard times that caused hair loss, acne, and even skin rashes that were cured using my homemade products. I want to give back to the community and thank the medical field and my Assyrian community here in America, for allowing me to fall in love with science, cosmetics, and my heritage. Becoming a plastic surgeon would mean that I will be able to help those looking to achieve their beauty needs and bring their confidence back safely. And I would still be able to represent my Assyrian people and make my ancestors proud of me, for not forgetting who I am.

The Ramina Tara Badal Memorial Scholarship has helped ease the burden of paying for an MCAT course this summer. It helped immensely with exam prep and I have just started the medical school application process. I hope to have more to share on my journey in the future.