Empowering Communities: A Journey of Service, Impact, and Commitment by Ghazal

Empowering Communities: A Journey of Service, Impact, and Commitment by Ghazal - January 2024 Scholarship Essay

From the innocent decision to join Rotary Club in the 3rd grade, I embarked on a journey that would reshape my perspective on life and foster a deep commitment to community service. My earliest engagement involved packaging school backpacks for foster children, an experience that revealed the profound impact of kindness and fueled my passion for making a difference. This initial spark led me to participate in various community initiatives such as food banks with Eunoia, contributing to Creative for a Cause by creating children's books, and supporting veterans through Veteran's Volunteering.

The turning point came during a visit to Afghanistan in 2021, where I collaborated with Rotary Club once again, serving foster children and witnessing the transformative power of compassion. These moments solidified my resolve to extend my impact beyond local boundaries, prompting my involvement with the International Rescue Committee (IRC) in 2022. This global engagement allowed me to conduct educational presentations on drug abuse prevention, reaching over 300 community members, and to lead a team in achieving organizational goals, fostering teamwork and collaboration.

Looking forward, my commitment to service expands as I aspire to continue working with organizations like the Red Cross and Hospice, aiming to provide support to the less privileged. My dedication to creating a better world for all propels me forward, urging me to instill the importance of unity in others.

My journey also reflects in my academic pursuits at the University of California San Diego, where I am pursuing a B.A. in Biology with a focus on Health Care Social Issues and a Cognitive Science Minor. This interdisciplinary approach aligns with my holistic view of community well-being and the interconnectedness of health and societal issues.

In my professional experiences, I have served as an Intern and Youth Leader at the International Rescue Committee in Sacramento, conducting educational presentations on drug abuse prevention and organizing social events to enhance community engagement. Additionally, my role at Interim HealthCare Hospice involved office work and the organization of care bags for patients, showcasing my commitment to making a difference even in administrative capacities.

As a Teacher Intern at the SMUD Museum of Science and Curiosity, I collaborated with a team to support a class of 25 students daily, demonstrating quick thinking, conflict resolution skills, and meticulous lesson planning. My role as an Intern at Sierra Sacramento Valley Medical Society allowed me to shadow various healthcare careers, gaining hands-on experience and exposure to different facets of the medical field.

In the managerial role at Seoul Express, I took on responsibilities such as handling customer orders, training new employees, and maintaining a clean environment. Through effective management, I contributed to a 15% increase in sales and customer satisfaction and a 10% boost in customer reviews.

My skills, ranging from CPR certification to proficiency in Microsoft and Drive, showcase my adaptability, collaboration, leadership, and problem-solving abilities. These skills have been honed not only in professional settings but also in leadership roles, such as my position as a Member and Instructor Coordinator at Red Cross, where I register instructors, coordinate training programs, and manage class logistics.

Furthermore, my role as Mira Loma Representative in the San Juan Unified School District involved advocating for institutional improvements, including changes in dress codes and launching a $4 million aviation career pathway. These experiences, coupled with my academic achievements, such as earning an International Baccalaureate Diploma and being recognized as Salutatorian, reinforce my commitment to impactful change.

In conclusion, my journey from a Rotary Club member in 3rd grade to a multifaceted contributor to my community and beyond has been guided by a passion for service, a commitment to making a difference, and a dedication to continuous learning. As I look ahead, I am driven to further amplify my impact, working with organizations that align with my vision of creating a better world for all.