My name is Leila Drew. I’m a 17 year old rising senior at the Early College at Guilford currently trying to raise funds so I can do the NYLF Medical and Health Care program at Yale this summer (the program info website in linked).

My goal for college is to major in Biology, either Biomedical Engineering or Biotechnology, with a focus on genetics. I want to pursue this path because I hope to research issues that matter deeply to me. Many people in my family have genetic and autoimmune diseases that cause lifelong complications and pain. There are still countless conditions, including certain cancers and genetic mutations, that remain understudied, without clear causes or sustainable treatments. I want to be part of the effort to better understand these diseases so I can contribute to improved research, knowledge, and patient care.

This program would help me build the experience in the medical field that could catapult my career by training with the best of the best and networking with current and future top minds of the field. Some of the highlights include hands-on medical simulations such as suturing and triaging, clinical skills labs, and exposure to areas like diagnostics, emergency medicine, and the other wide rage of healthcare roles. The program also covers medical ethics, patient communication and offers expert-led workshops, clinic site visits, and active medical professionals as guest. Also I would receive an educational certificate with college credits and experience that would boost my resume and prove my credentials and dedication.

I’m especially excited about the hands-on experience and the opportunity to speak directly with medical professionals who can answer my questions and help guide my future career path. I’m also looking forward to spending time on Yale’s campus alongside other students who share similar interests and goals. I hope to build meaningful connections and friendships during the program.

I was born and raised in High Point, North Carolina with two hardworking parents. The program is so important to me because I know people like me, a young Afro-Latina, are underrepresented in fields like medicine and STEM in general. I want to get a head-start in my career and hopefully pave a way for others like me to as well.

Currently I have a job, but the job can only cover so much after other expenses. My parents are helping with what they can, but we are in the process of moving and have two other children who’re also working to help out with expenses. I’m very hardworking and of course will be looking for other ways to raise or earn money for this $5,000 program in July, but I’m leaving this here because I know it takes a village, patience, and faith. My goal is to have all the funds raised by July 10th, 2026. Any amount donated is helpful and greatly appreciated!