Dermatology starts with Biology by Morgan

Dermatology starts with Biology by Morgan - February 2024 Scholarship Essay

I plan to pursue a major in Biology. This major will put me on the path to becoming a dermatologist. The road to becoming a dermatologist will require long hours of studying and years of schooling but in the end, it will be worth my effort. My future career is worth the dedication because this field of study is something I have a passion for.
Pursuing a degree in dermatology became my goal when I went to my dermatologist for the first time. Needing assistance with my severe acne, I walked into my appointment shy and insecure but, I left full of hope. My dermatologist helped me find the right treatment plan and guided me to recovery. My skin journey was extensive and finding what worked for my skin took years. Although my struggle with acne is not over yet, I am very proud of my progress. Acne does not only affect a person's skin. It produces painful lesions and inflamed pimples, but it also can tear down a person's self-esteem.
My acne held me back from being confident. In return, this caused me to be shy. I missed out on countless opportunities because my acne caused me not to want to leave my house. I want everyone to feel confident in their skin. Through the help of my dermatologist I have gained back my confidence and now post-acne, I am doing things my acne held me back from. For example, recently I applied and was interviewed for a chance to become a Washington D.C. Youth Tour Delegate. I became a finalist and went to Washington D.C. with students from all over the United States. I got the opportunity to speak to my congressmen, see historic landmarks, and visit memorials. Before getting over my acne, I would have never acted upon the opportunity I was given.
I want to spread awareness of the negative effects of the sun. My own family has dealt with the adverse effects of high UV rays. My mom spent long days on the lake, hours in tanning beds, and days working cattle in the sun. These extended periods of time under UV rays caused her to become allergic to the sun. My mom now has to compensate for her past mistakes by taking precautions. She has to wear sunscreen, hats, and long garments to protect her from getting fried. Becoming a dermatologist would allow me to warn people about the side effects of unprotected sun exposure.
My grandpa unfortunately passed away from skin cancer. Being a farmer, he worked in the sun every day. When he found out he had skin cancer, it was too late. His treatments did not heal him, but the treatments gave him some extra days. If a dermatologist had been more accessible to him, he would have had a better chance of recovery. My grandpa's story inspires me to become a dermatologist.
My long journey to becoming a dermatologist starts by earning a major in biology. My acne caused me to become angry, apprehensive, overwhelmed, and depressed. Acne and skin cancer negatively affected my life, but I can change those experiences into a positive if I can help others in a similar situation.