Why Chemistry? by Annalise

Why Chemistry? by Annalise - April 2025 Scholarship Essay

With careful measurement, precise mixing, and a steady flow of heat, a dull room could soon be full of delight. My little cousin runs up to me, “Mmm, Lili this is delicious!” With frosting all over his nose, he looks up at me with the most joyous smile. In 2020, a time full of despair, all I wanted to do was see smiles on my family’s faces. Being able to bake for my family gave me a new appreciation for chemistry. I’ve never paid attention to how much chemistry makes my life so enjoyable until I saw its direct effect on the people I love.
My love for chemistry has drawn me into skincare. With this new interest, I’ve learned that people of darker skin complexions have been neglected in the skincare industry. Companies disregard melanin rich skin tones when making foundation and market sunscreen that leaves a white or purple cast on darker hues. They feed into the false ideology that dark skin is less sensitive to UV and other harmful elements. I’ve noticed that individuals who look like me stop buying and wearing products like sunscreen because from our eyes, it looks like this industry was not meant for us. Thus, making us more susceptible for disease that could be prevented.
After attending Spelman’s A Day In Your Life event and witnessing exceptional teaching methods firsthand by sitting in on a chemistry and calculus class, I am now certain that a Spelman education would help me achieve my community-driven aspirations. At Spelman College I will not only receive a stellar education but I will also be around like-minded individuals who also care for their community in this manner. I want to spend my life providing selfcare products so everyone can take care of their skin. My creations will be free of cancer-causing agents, cater to the needs of all skin types, and be accessible and affordable. Being able to take care of yourself is a right not a privilege. From baking to cosmetics, my love for chemistry implores me to help my community and leave an impact on the world. This is why I’ve made the choice to major in chemistry with a cosmetic science concentration.