Personal Profile
What drives me forward
University of Cincinnati Honors Student
Hello, my name is Samantha Jackson, and I am a fourth-year University Honors student at the University of Cincinnati majoring in Psychology on the Pre-Law track. I am passionate about food equity, health, and psychology, and I plan to bring these interests together in my career as a Medical Malpractice Attorney, advocating for marginalized groups harmed by the healthcare system.
For many communities, health challenges begin long before diagnosis. Maternal and childhood stress, limited access to nutritious food and healthcare, and fear of seeking treatment all contribute to long-term disparities. I was especially struck by the statistic that 70% of ER visits are driven by people seeking food, overcrowding hospitals and forcing many to rely on the ER as primary care.
This past summer, as an intern clerking in New Orleans, I experienced firsthand the importance of timely care. After I suddenly began losing my vision, I was rushed into emergency surgery for a retinal detachment. I was consistently being told me that if I had waited maybe even a day to come in, I would have gone blind. That experience made me reflect: what if I had delayed treatment because of cost, fear, or lack of access? I had a deep realization that the cost of poverty is immeasurable.
As a future Medical Malpractice Attorney, I hope to fight for justice within the healthcare system and help people feel safer seeking care when they need it. I also plan to continue my service work expanding access to healthy foods, ensuring more families can stay healthier for longer.
My Definition of a Global Citizen Scholar
I define a global citizen scholar as someone who has passion and grit in everything they do. I came up with this definition by analyzing the expectations of an honors student and evaluating what it will take to get there.
One of the most important lessons I have ever learned is that grit will always take you further than knowledge. Although some people may be naturally gifted to pick up on things easily and pass classes with little to no effort, hard work will always be what brings you to the top. I chose the word “grit” because it perfectly encompasses the meanings of hard work, courage, and persistence all into one.
My goals and chosen experiences will help me expand my definition of a global citizen scholar, because I will finally be putting my words into action. I will get the chance to show myself just how passionate and hardworking I can be. I hope to come out of my four years at UC, as someone that has a newfound self-confidence in areas such as organization, leadership, building connections, and being a self-starter.
I created this definition of a Global Citizen Scholar as a freshman in college while still finding my way, and I am proud to say I continue to stand by it.
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