Ms. Ariyam Alefe is a student at the University of Southern California, pursuing a career in health care with a strong commitment to addressing disparities in access to care. She is involved in several organizations, including the African Americans in Health group and the Everyday Responder Project, where she has honed her leadership and emergency medical skills. Throughout Ms. Alefe's academic journey, she been recognized for her dedication to service and leadership, including being selected for the National Honor Society and graduating as her high school valedictorian. She has worked with organizations like the Amani Women Center and Mustard Seed Project, providing support for refugees, domestic violence victims, and underserved communities. Her passion for health care stems from her personal experiences growing up in an immigrant, low-income community, where she witnessed the challenges many faced in accessing quality care. She aims to bridge these gaps as a physician assistant.