There are few things more important than inspiring talented, passionate young people to pursue a career in health care. Manimone Sengvoravong, a fourth-year student at Baldwin Wallace University, is getting valuable exposure to the medical field through your support of the Rising Stars program.

"I was always interested in working in health care," she says. "This program solidified my aspiration to pursue it."

The Rising Star Medical Internship Program at Mercy Health – Lorain Hospital is a paid internship program that exposes students to the field of medicine. It started over 20 years ago to help increase diversity in the health care field. The program also helps enhance skills in teamwork, leadership and professionalism. Thanks to your gift, Manimone shadowed doctors and nurses during her time as a Rising Star. It left a lasting impression.

I was struck by their tenacity and resilience. I want to serve my community the way they do. The ability to hear, understand and heal a patient inspired me to seek a medical career.

Manimone is excited about her future. She credits Rising Stars' impact on her decision to apply to medical school.

"I am truly grateful for your generosity to the Rising Stars program," she says. "This program has given me opportunities to grow as a leader and an advocate for my community. It shaped me into a well-rounded student who understands the impact of a strong infrastructure within a system and how that can positively impact a community's health."