Connecting Families Through DNA by Faith

Connecting Families Through DNA by Faith - February 2024 Scholarship Essay

All my life I have known who my family was, and I knew where I came from. I know my siblings, parents, grandparents, and more. As I got older, I realized not everyone knows their family like me. I have seen shows like Relative Race(BYUtv) and Finding Your Roots (PBS) where people discover their lost family after being separated or simply learn more about their relatives. In these shows I have seen people become so overwhelmed in happiness when they finally get to meet their parents, grandparents, and siblings. I have lost some family members that meant so much to me when I was young. I could not imagine my life without the memories that I built with them. Every time I see families getting reunited, I get filled with joy because it was not too late for them to start building memories with their family.
Today we use DNA and other origins to connect families. The science classes that I have been focusing on have taught me the importance of DNA and how it makes us who we are. Everyone is so different; it is fascinating to see the differences that makes us who we are.
From seeing how DNA can reunite families and help connect ancestors, I have chosen to major in Cellular/Molecular Biology. I want to become a Geneticist. I want to learn all about DNA and how it can be used to help reunite families all around the world. I want to help others connect with their families and ancestors, to bring them the joy my family brings me. I know the importance of family; nothing would make me happier than to give people the happiness my family brings me.