Education's Role in Preparing Me for My Future Career by Rachel

Education's Role in Preparing Me for My Future Career by Rachel - March 2025 Scholarship Essay

Ten years from now, I see myself pursuing a career in public health and biomedical innovation, working to develop accessible treatments for chronic illnesses and implement policies for emerging diseases. Education will have played a crucial role in my future—not only by deepening my understanding of epidemiology, immunotherapy, and health policy but also by exposing me to a wide range of disciplines and perspectives.
One of the most valuable aspects of college is the opportunity to meet people from diverse backgrounds. Engaging with individuals who hold different perspectives is essential to developing a more nuanced view of the world. Especially for my future career, which focuses on disparities in healthcare access in undeserved communities, learning from people with varied social and economic experiences would be invaluable in educating me on challenges I have yet to consider.
Furthermore, connecting with others who share my vision and ambition will allow me to engage in meaningful research and make a tangible impact. An intellectual community is vital for continued growth, especially in the context of evolving global health challenges and rising antibiotic resistance. Coming from a small Southern town, I have rarely encountered others who share my academic interests. Collaborating with like-minded peers would be an incredibly valuable and fulfilling experience.
Beyond the people I will meet, I look forward to deepening my knowledge of science and policy. Gaining technical expertise will provide a strong foundation for further education and research. I also want to take advantage of the opportunities in college that will prepare me for real-world work. Hands-on experience through internships, research initiatives, and public health projects will allow me to apply my knowledge in practical settings. Understanding how scientific advancements transition from research to policy and ultimately to real-world implementation is essential to my career goals.
In addition to traditional science coursework, I hope to explore interdisciplinary fields such as bioethics, health economics, and global development. Approaching problems from multiple perspectives will allow me to advocate for solutions that consider both scientific advancements and their broader societal implications.
Furthermore, I want to engage with communities beyond the classroom—whether through public health outreach, volunteering, or social justice initiatives. I believe real change cannot happen in isolation; direct engagement with the communities I hope to serve is one of the most important steps I can take. Too often, public health policies are implemented without a true understanding of the populations they affect, overlooking cultural differences and accessibility barriers. Learning not just the “how” but also the “why” behind these issues will be crucial in shaping my approach to public health and biomedical innovation. I also hope to collaborate with policymakers, researchers, and community leaders to better understand the structural barriers to healthcare accessibility.
Higher education will provide me with the tools, network, and opportunities to explore the intersection of science and policy. Whether through coursework, internships, or simply engaging with people from diverse backgrounds, I plan to develop the expertise and perspective necessary to turn my vision into reality.