The CMA Foundation would like to congratulate the graduating senior members of our Youth Advisory Council. Five members of the council, which teaches students about healthcare philanthropy with real opportunities to make a difference, are graduating from high school and are making plans for college. Several have shared their plans for the future and what the Council has meant to them.

Reeve R.

Where do you plan to go to college and what will you study?

I will be attending both the University of St. Andrews in Scotland as well as the College of William & Mary as part of the Joint Degree Program (2 years at each school). I will be majoring in International Relations with a minor in French. I don't know exactly what I want to do, but I would love to do some sort of humanitarian work or human rights law.

What has the Youth Advisory Council meant to you?

The YAC has helped me grow as a leader in more ways than I can express. It has given me insight into a world most kids aren't able to see, and allows me to stay connected to the broader central Ohio community, allowing me to step in and lead more effectively where a need presents itself. Having open and professional discussions with other youth allows everyone on the YAC to grow our leadership while working collaboratively, free of any hierarchy. Serving as the YAC liaison to the CMAF board has also allowed me to gain confidence as a public speaker and youth advocate.

I am eternally grateful for the opportunities afforded to me by the YAC and the CMAF overall. My membership in the YAC is one of my favorite things that I did during high school, and it has uniquely prepared me for my future.

Sreekari P

Where do you plan to go to college and what will you study?

I will be majoring in biology on a pre med track and will be attending Baylor University. My future aspirations are to follow the field of medicine and possibly go into family medicine.

What has the Youth Advisory Council meant to you?

YAC has offered me the amazing opportunity to dive deep into community issues and find solutions that enhance our community. I love seeing the growth we can bring and want to continue to grow along with the community.

Ria M

Where do you plan to go to college and what will you study?

I will be attending The Ohio State University and majoring in Public Policy and Leadership. I am looking into criminal defense law or constitutional law. Alternatively, I am possibly thinking of working for a non-profit.

What has the Youth Advisory Council meant to you?

Being a member of the Columbus Medical Association Foundation's Youth Advisory Council has given me a foothold in the world of philanthropy. Working alongside peers outside of my school district has opened me to different viewpoints, taught me how to work with new people, and made me aware of the varying struggles people face across central Ohio. I have made some great friends while being a part of YAC, and I am thankful for all that it has taught me.

We invite our physician members to share the opportunity to join the Youth Advisory Council with their own children and others in their network. Any greater Columbus area student in grades 8-12 can apply to become a member.

More information: https://www.cmafohio.org/yac

Application: https://www.cmafohio.org/joinyac

Questions: youthcouncil@cmafohio.org

Pictured above (from left to right): Pragalya A., Reeve R., Ria M., Julia W. Not pictured: Sreekari P and Selis T.