My ISHTaR experience was truly transformative, offering me a unique opportunity to shadow physicians and gain a personal insight into the world of emergency services, including visits to the dispatch center and EMS ride-alongs. This experience not only deepened my understanding of healthcare but also taught me the value of collaboration in a high-pressure environment. However, as I progressed through my college years at UNC Chapel Hill, my career aspirations underwent a significant shift. I decided to pivot away from a path as a medical doctor and instead, I’m passionately pursuing a career in scientific research. Currently, I’m a research technician at the Lemon Lab within the UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, where I focus on studying Rhinoviruses responsible for the common cold. My long-term goal is to pursue a PhD in molecular biology, further delving into the exciting world of scientific research. In my spare time, I’m actively honing my coding skills and even considering the possibility of pursuing a master’s degree in computer science. The journey has been full of twists and turns, but I’m excited about the future and the diverse avenues it may hold.