Alexis N.

When I was younger, I rarely saw women leading in science or engineering. I wondered why there were so few female role models in STEM and whether I could one day become one of them. Although I did not yet know what biomedical engineering was, I knew that I wanted a career where I could make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. Since then, every opportunity I have pursued has strengthened my determination to become not only an engineer but also a woman others can look up to for inspiration.

My passion for STEM began in 2018 when I attended a summer program at the Elementary Institute of Science. I was only seven years old, and so before then, science was simply another school subject. During the program, I met mentors who introduced me to careers I had never imagined and showed me that women could thrive in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. For the first time, I felt that I belonged in a field where curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving could come together to improve lives. That experience sparked a dream that has continued to grow. A few years later, I discovered Greater Than Tech, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering underrepresented students and young women through STEM education and mentorship. The organization’s founders became role models who encouraged me to challenge myself academically while using my knowledge to serve others. Their motto, “Greater Every Day,” reminded me that growth comes from consistently striving to become a better student, leader, and person. Through engineering activities, mentorship, and community engagement, I learned that innovation is not simply about creating new technology; it is about using every opportunity to improve both our communities and ourselves. Greater Than Tech taught me to embrace challenges, overcome adversity, and pursue success with purpose, and I will always be grateful for the supportive community that helped shape the person I am today.

When I enrolled at Gompers Preparatory Academy, I continued developing both inside and outside the classroom. Through activities such as varsity volleyball, basketball, soccer, band, and essay competitions, I discovered the value of leadership, communication, and perseverance. Whether competing on the court or collaborating with classmates, I learned that success is rarely achieved alone. Every experience strengthened my confidence and taught me to embrace challenges rather than fear them.

My greatest source of inspiration, however, has always been my uncle. After suffering a stroke in his late thirties, he lost the use of his left arm and much of his mobility. Since the unfortunate event, he had lived with my family before I was able to attend elementary school. As time continued to fly by, every morning before school, I helped him with his daily routine: making his coffee, putting on his shoes, and watching him begin his walk to the neighborhood park. Simple tasks became daily obstacles, yet he never allowed them to define him. Instead, he met every challenge with determination and humor, often teasing my sister and I by saying, “I can walk faster than both of you. At this point, I think I can even run faster all around the world.” His resilience taught me that true strength is measured not by what we can do easily, but by our willingness to keep moving forward despite adversity.

Watching my uncle navigate life after his stroke made me ask a question that has shaped my future: How could I make life easier for people who have faced or are currently facing similar challenges like him? That question introduced me to biomedical engineering. I realized that prosthetics, assistive devices, and medical technologies have the power to restore not only mobility but also independence and dignity.Although my uncle passed away in April 2023, his perseverance continues to inspire every goal I pursue. I hope to honor his memory by designing technologies that help others regain the freedom to do the things they love.

As I continue through high school, I have challenged myself with accelerated coursework, advanced mathematics, and a commitment to academic excellence, maintaining a 4.0 GPA while preparing for the demands of engineering. I look forward to pursuing biomedical engineering at a university where I can continue developing the skills needed to create meaningful innovations. More importantly I hope to become the role model I searched for when I was younger: a woman who demonstrates that leadership, compassion, and determination can inspire the next generation of girls to pursue careers in STEM. Every obstacle I overcome strengthens my belief that growth comes from perseverance, and I am excited to continue that journey by creating solutions that improve lives for others. If you are currently reading my personal statement, with utmost gratitude, thank you for your time.