When I was six-years-old, my favorite animal was the lobster.I had read that lobsters are immortal and have perceived them as magical creatures. My world changed when we had lobster for dinner. Why had the book deceived me?

Ten years later, the mystery was solved when I learned in my AP Biology class that lobsters were abundant in telomerase – an enzyme that extends lifespans.

No other class made me more excited. After each lesson, I realized that what we learned in class was only a small fraction of the endless possibilities of knowledge. I used to be intimidated by the unknown, always associating it with a negative connotation. But in biology, the dreaded “I don’t know” statement is praised because it pushes us towards discovery.

We’re all still trying to understand what exactly is happening in the world around us, but I believe that I can uncover the secrets of the universe with the help of USC’s numerous research opportunities in Dornsife. Through USC’s Study Abroad programs, I can travel to one of twenty-two countries to gain new academic and cultural perspectives of biology. If accepted, I plan to apply to the Kaiser Medical Preceptorship Program during my junior or senior year, shadowing physicians to pursue my dream of becoming a doctor. I cannot wait to indulge myself in the rigorous classes among my peers as we learn from Dr. Capone, Dr. Herrera, and other prestigious professors before relaxing in the McCarthy Quad, soaking up the California sun.