Driven by Purpose: A Journey Towards Pediatric Medicine by Alexia

Driven by Purpose: A Journey Towards Pediatric Medicine by Alexia - April 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is Alexia Tremellen, currently a rising junior at Florida State University (FSU), where my major focus lies in Biology. As a white-Asian woman, I credit my eclectic cultural background for fostering resilience, hard work, and a strong moral compass in my upbringing. This unique blend has crafted a sense of purpose and motivation in my academic life. Although my future is not completely penned, it already envisages a rewarding role—that of a Pediatrician; a role that sprouts from the joy of investing in the health and wellness of children.

In my ambitious academic journey, two profound sources of motivation continually fuel my drive. Firstly, the invaluable support from my family, who incessantly urge me to catapult past all challenges. They never shy away from reminding me of my potential, bolstering my spirit with their unwavering belief in my abilities. Secondly, the prospect of materializing my aspiration of being a Pediatrician invigorates me. The idea of practicing a profession that I am passionate about, and contributing positively to society, translates into a potent motivation in my academic endeavors.

As a Biology major, I appreciate that the journey to becoming a Pediatrician is not a short or easy path. Throughout my academic career, I have grappled with the complexities of scientific concepts, melding theories with practical applications—each one inching me closer to medicinal proficiency.

Currently boasting a GPA of 3.94, my academic record evidently mirrors my dedication and commitment to achieving this dream. Although this accomplishment is noteworthy, the path to it was interspersed with various hurdles and challenges that I had to navigate, and more so as a woman in STEM.

The pressures of academia can be daunting at times, often derailing focus from long-term objectives. To help mitigate this, I employ goal-setting and time-management strategies geared towards fostering focus and balance in my studies. I've found that breaking down my pedagogic milestones into manageable, actionable goals sustained momentum and facilitated comprehensive assimilation of complex educational material, while ensuring my goals remain in sight.

My identity as a white-Asian woman also plays a pivotal role in maintaining my scholastic focus. Amidst the clarion call for more women in STEM fields, I find the opportunity to establish a meaningful, beneficial influence on society especially motivating. I see becoming a Pediatrician not only as a personal victory but also an impetus for more women and people of different cultural backgrounds to pursue their dreams, especially within the STEM field.

Ultimately, my motivation is underpinned by the desire to convert theoretical knowledge into palpable gains that will benefit future patients. I envision a future where I can use my education and knowledge to elicit smiles on young faces, and relief on worried parental ones.

In being granted the Varsity Tutors College Scholarship, I can propound my journey with more eagerness and less financial precariousness. I promise to continually strive with perseverance, integrity, and a heart full of passion towards fulfilling my duties in the healthcare sector and society at large. With the scholarship’s support, my path to becoming a Pediatrician can pave the way for more diverse voices to contribute meaningfully in STEM fields.