I am Manav Patel, a second-generation Indian American born here to immigrant parents. As part of a vibrant Indian community, I grew up with strong cultural roots and a Hindu faith. Dance, food, traditions - my family and temple community passed these on. Now on my own, I still value those cultural connections along with nurturing my independence.

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Academically and career-wise, I strive for accountability, balance, and time management. Juggling science classes with the dance team and debate club has meant organization is vital. I take pride in pulling my weight in group projects and learning from friends and mentors with different backgrounds. Curiosity and inclusiveness motivate me inside and outside the classroom.

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In the long term, I hope to fuse my interests in tech and healthcare to develop innovations benefiting communities lacking access. I want to leverage the privileges and connections I’ve been fortunate to have to open doors for others down the road. Understanding people’s diverse needs with compassion and partnering well are key values for me.

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Visiting the Ackland Museum with my public health class deeply impacted me. Seeing artistic interpretations of past health movements brought home how long marginalized groups have had to fight for equity and access. I was especially inspired learning about advocates who embedded themselves within struggling communities to uplift health from within.

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This ethos resonates with my cultural upbringing - the values of seva through compassionate service and standing in solidarity with those suffering. My passion comes from a desire to alleviate the injustices still embedded in our systems today that disproportionately harm vulnerable populations.

As I have engaged with more course material, my fire for health justice has only intensified. Researching policy has shown me how intentionally many barriers have been constructed to privilege some groups over others. I feel galvanized to continue my education, informed by lived experiences, to dismantle inequities through action.

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My community comprises people who, despite facing marginalization, choose resilience and joy. I aim to honor their stories and insights in my practice. My goal is that our shared humanity can refuel our fight toward health equity as a collective human right. I must reflect daily on my own privilege to ensure I approach this work with cultural humility. Public health pioneers like those depicted in the Ackland Museum will remain my inspiration to carry the torch with courage.