Sanjana Pawar

How did you earn the Congressional Award?

Voluntary Public Service:

I dedicate my time to tutoring elementary school students in my college town’s underserved areas. As a passionate tutor, I guide elementary-school students through math and reading, fostering not just academic growth but a love for learning. Beyond the classroom, I organize engaging recreational activities as part of an after-school program. In addition to my commitment to education, I regularly volunteer at a local hospital. In this role, I provide patients with care and compassion. By combining my academic support in the community with direct care at the hospital, I strive to make a positive impact in both educational and healthcare realms.

Personal Development:

To nurture my passion for medicine, I actively pursued opportunities to shadow physicians, eagerly immersing myself in their profession and gaining firsthand insights into the intricacies of their daily work.

Personal Fitness:

My objective was to boost my running endurance and stamina. I track my running speeds and distances on a treadmill, using interval training to enhance overall performance.

Expedition:

Constrained by travel limitations during the COVID-19 era, I was excited to engage in virtual expeditions. Navigating through iconic landmarks such as the Great Wall of China, Machu Picchu, the Acropolis, and the Great Pyramid of Giza, I transported myself across borders, savoring the richness of diverse cultures and historical wonders!

My participation in the Congressional Award has instilled in me a deep sense of dedication and a strong desire for self-growth, and I hope to continue pursuing my goals.

What are your current ambitions?

After completing my undergraduate degree next year, I aspire to attend medical school. This pivotal step marks the beginning of my pursuit to fulfill a lifelong dream of becoming a surgeon. This is exciting as I head towards a future where I can contribute meaningfully to the field of healthcare and make a positive impact on the lives of others.

Where do you find your motivation?

A lot of things motivate me! My parents, who went the extra mile (literally across the world) to back my dreams, motivate me to give my all. Beyond personal aspirations, my motivation stems from a deep-seated desire to make a positive impact on others. The profound satisfaction of seeing the effects of my actions on people’s lives drives me forward. At the core of my values is a commitment to being a good person, having a kind heart, and being a friend to everyone.