Essay On Epidemiology

Firsthand, I know the feeling of helplessness during hardship; from living paycheck to paycheck in a single parent home, witnessing my grandfather become ill, and being physically assaulted by my father as a child. In each experience, I had neither control over the circumstances affecting my life, nor a confidant, which created the feeling of isolation. Although I have always been self-motivated and remained positive to endure hard times, it was not until I enrolled at Spelman College that I realized the value of community and a sense of control over one's life. A career in epidemiology, for me, means the avenue by which I can offer a sense of control to those experiencing adversity, and improve lives.
While in elementary school, my grandfather …show more content…
As a first year student, I received the opportunity to develop, educationally, through the Florida State University Research Experiences for Undergraduates summer program as an intern for a bioengineer. This experience is distinctive to me not only because it represents my first paid job within research (allowing me to support my family through my education), but it also pushed me far out of my comfort zone. The focus of my summer project was traumatic brain injury-- a topic wholly new to me, so I had to seek help. Stepping outside of my comfort zone allowed me to see that there is no embarrassment in admitting ignorance and seeking help. I found that I was not alone in this, but that, when we could function as a group, we were able to accomplish much more. This is a lesson that could have prevented the C+ I received in two of my courses freshman year, but it was still useful during the spring of my junior year. Struggling to stay afloat, I reached out to professors and friends who were a constant supply of encouragement when my life had become chaotic. This community allowed me to learn most effectively and to capitalize on my inner drive to