Riya Soni

After running a year-long fundraiser, I was invited by the research institute's head, Dr. Rajat Jain, to intern at their clinic in New Delhi. Volunteering in late July, the peak of monsoon season, I served as a first responder to flood relief camps along the Yamuna River; I filled out prescriptions, treated patients with oral and topical treatments, and gave out over-the-counter drugs. I also spent time working in the Oncology wards of Safdarjung Hospital, making rounds with the on-site oncologist, Dr. Pragya Singh. I routinely updated Dr. Singh on the condition of approximately 45 patients, many of whom faced dental decay and cancer from chewing tobacco.

Alongside a team of two other interns, I create social media content for the Strength Initiative, an organization that introduces women to weightlifting. Additionally, I go to their gym and help instructors lead weekly exercise classes, particularly those for teenagers and young adults.

After school and on the weekends, I babysat a 4-month old, 3 year old, and 5 year old for my high school's head soccer coach. I picked the kids up from school, made sure they ate dinner, arranged playdates for them with other kids, took them to any fun events on campus, and kept track of all their belongings to ensure a smooth return to their parents.

Within the Religious Studies course 'Abrahamic Traditions,' I applied and was accepted to be a Teacher's Assistant. I often assisted a trio of students, holding at least 3 hours of tutoring a week to brainstorm essay topics, prepare for finals, and offer peer-editing help.

Company Overview: Systemic Justice Project, directed by Professor Jon Hanson

Due to my social justice work, a St Andrew's advisor connected me to Harvard Law Professor Jon Hanson, who directs the Systemic Justice Project. Working alongside one other high school intern, we partook in virtual discussion forums with college students, graduate students, and educators on problems of institutionalized racism.