Myritney Saint-Cloud ’23, a cognitive science major, is passionate about research, providing personalized medical care and breaking through biases and prejudice in the medical field. She has always imagined a future of providing medical support to women, communities of color and children — and she is working towards making her dream of becoming an OB/GYN or pediatric surgeon a reality. Having access to scholarships, exceptional educational opportunities and supportive and encouraging parents has empowered her to thrive both in and out of the classroom.
“There are so many health disparities in the Black community and other communities of color,” Myritney said. “I want to help create an environment that provides equitable health access to all. As a first generation, low-income Black student, there are historically any number of barriers to the dreams I hope to achieve. Rice has introduced me to a wide array of opportunities and resources that are going to help me get there.”
Myritney is one of many Rice undergraduate students who have benefitted from the Rice Annual Fund, the university’s most powerful source of unrestricted gifts. In her time at Rice, she participated in study abroad programs, connected with peers and graduate mentors, and developed her passion for research in labs at the Bioscience Research Collaborative (BRC).
“My time learning in bioengineering labs at the BRC was among the most meaningful experiences I’ve had. I performed hands-on experiments and worked through complex situations in an applied environment. This experience solidified my interest in research and gave me the tools to see projects through from beginning to end. I was also fortunate enough to partner with a graduate mentor who helped me transform the way I work and become a better student and researcher,” Myritney explained.
“My dream is to be an OB/GYN or pediatric surgeon so I can provide personalized care to women or children and make them feel heard, understood and taken care of. Thanks to the scholarship support I’ve received at Rice, I’ve had a robust set of opportunities and experiences that have helped me learn more about my chosen field. Your support has changed the way I view the world. I feel like the impossible is now possible.”
With generous support from the Rice Annual Fund, the university offers Myritney and other Owls the best in financial aid, residential college life, student activities, research and more. Learn more how your gift to the Rice Annual Fund can make an impact in students’ lives.
