Leya Edwards-Headen

Biology with Biochemistry Concentration

Since a young age, I have been passionate about Duke University for its excellent curriculum, vibrant sports culture, and renowned medical school. My admiration for Duke deepened when I attended the National Student Leadership Conference, where I experienced the campus's beauty and felt the strong sense of community. This experience reinforced my aspiration to engage fully in college life while pursuing my academic and extracurricular interests. 
   
My goal is to become an OB/GYN specializing in the care of women and babies, driven by the experiences of my mother and aunt, who did not receive proper care during their pregnancies. I aim to conduct research on health inequities affecting women of color, with a specific focus on preeclampsia and stem cell research, to help improve care and outcomes. 
   
My experiences at Duke University have solidified my commitment to this path. During my freshman year, I was part of a dedicated team that developed an innovative automated device for the FARACAS machine, enhancing research capabilities in the Cassar lab. This project allowed me to hone my technical skills in programming and critical thinking, culminating in a presentation at the Duke University Pratt Design Fair. 
   
In addition to my research endeavors, I actively seek out opportunities to expand my knowledge and skills. As a paid intern with Road to Hire, I gained hands-on experience in media production and public speaking. My role included analyzing and presenting content for our magazine while participating in career readiness projects. I also interned with the Mayor’s Youth Employment Program, where we developed a mobile app to address air pollution concerns in Charlotte. 
   
Currently, I am a student intern at Atrium Health, where I support various research activities, manage electronic medical records, and observe surgical procedures, gaining invaluable insights into the orthopedic surgery field. 
   
Outside the classroom, I enjoy engaging in modeling and acting, which allows me to explore my creative side and build confidence. All these experiences have deepened my understanding of hard work and dedication, reinforcing my future ambitions in healthcare and research at institutions like Duke University.