Dancing Doctor by Allison

Dancing Doctor by Allison - January 2017 Scholarship Essay

When I first got to Bloomington, I had already made the decision that I wanted to get myself involved in some sort of extracurricular offered. With IU having such a heavy impact on Riley Hospital and raising money for the children, I thought that would be something perfect for me, since I have been considering becoming a pediatrician for quite some time. Something that I initially wanted for an extracurricular turned into my top priority. I raised over $1,300 and was selected as a 36-hour dancer at our dance marathon we raised over 4-million dollars for. Through this long process of fundraising, I found myself loving the cause more and more and growing more eager to find more ways to help. During the marathon I got to spend time with multiple Riley patients and it was a life-touching experience. I have decided next year to run for a position on a committee, so I can have a chance to create an even bigger impact towards this miracle-making cause.

With IUDM (Indiana University Dance Marathon) season winding down, I felt the feeling of helping still unsatisfied. I needed to get involved and in an even bigger way. A more hands on way, if possible. I started going to meetings for people interested in the same career path as me, called Global Brigade. A group of fellow students are chosen to go to certain countries in poverty and care for patients and shadow doctors over a week. I've always aspired to do something like this when I graduated and started my career. Going to a less fortunate part of the world and providing health care to needy children has always been my dream and I am not going to let this opportunity to do it now through the school get passed up.

In my first semester in college, I was a little overwhelmed. Bigger workload, longer days, and yet somehow seemed like I never had time to get everything done in a successful manner. These two, very special extracurricular activities, have been a ray of hope in me doubting what I really wanted to do with my life. When everything is going against you, it's a natural thought to think change or quit, but with these pushing me towards my passion, I know I don't want to do anything else besides help people.