With you, I can

Your support ensures students like Haley can build a bright future.

I will fight and cure cancer! When I was ten, my grandmother passed away from breast cancer. Since then, my goal has been to find a career path that allows me to actively engage in cancer research and contribute to the ongoing fight against this disease.

I am genuinely inspired by the idea of combining surgical precision with the relentless pursuit of cancer research. My dedication to becoming a surgical oncologist stems from a profound desire to be at the forefront of the fight against cancer and serve as an advocate for underrepresented communities, working towards equitable healthcare access and outcomes.

Because of CRJ, I found an incredibly rewarding experience at the Medical College of Wisconsin during a six-week intensive pre-med program this summer. I had the opportunity to engage with passionate educators and other students who share my dedication to the field of medicine. My favorite aspect of the program was the opportunity to shadow Dr. Thompson in the cancer clinic. Witnessing his dedication and the impact he made on patients’ lives not only inspired me but also reinforced my commitment to pursuing a career in medicine.

This year, my work-study placement at Madison Medical has been immensely beneficial, offering me invaluable real-world experience in the healthcare field. The doctors are always willing to answer my questions, and I have access to their software programs to give me a better understanding of the administrative side of healthcare. In addition, my supervisor at Madison Medical is a recent medical college graduate who is preparing me for what the next few years of schooling will be like.

My CRJ teachers are a big part of why I have found success, and they have helped me realize my potential. One instance is Mrs. V. taking time after school to help connect what I’m learning in her anatomy class to things I’ve learned at Madison Medical as well as things I learned at MCW this summer. Her dedication to helping me succeed has helped me put all the pieces of my CRJ education together as I pursue my career in medicine.

My family has been an unwavering pillar of support throughout my high school journey and participation in pre-college programs. Their encouragement and belief in my potential motivates me to excel academically and pursue my passions in healthcare. It feels good to make them proud. As the oldest sibling, I want to inspire my younger brother and sisters to pursue their dreams and to show them you just need passion and devotion.

After graduation, I will be attending UW-Madison, where I hope to major in biology in a pre-med track. The support and opportunities CRJ has provided have helped me commit to blazing my trail as a doctor.

Haley Alvarez Garcia, Class of 2024

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