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Portrait of Sophia Zambrano Castillo

Honor Society® member

Sophia Zambrano Castillo

  • pre-med
  • Class of 2026
  • Bradenton, Florida

Member since July 2026

About

I've always been passionate about helping others and making a difference in people's lives through healthcare. As a high-achieving student with a 4.0 GPA and a 4.41 weighted GPA, ranked 27th out of 431 students, I have challenged myself through Honors, AP, and dual-enrollment coursework while exploring my interests in science, medicine, and leadership. I hope to pursue a career as a doctor or specialized nurse, with particular interests in cardiology, neurology, emergency medicine, and family medicine. Through both my academic achievements and leadership experiences, I have developed a strong commitment to learning, service, and personal growth. I am excited to continue exploring different healthcare fields and opportunities that will allow me to make a meaningful impact in my community and the lives of others.

Education

  • State College of Florida

    dual enrollment student

    2026 – Present

  • University of South Florida

    dual enrollment student

    2025 – 2026

  • Braden River High School

    high school student

    2023 – Present

Honors and awards

  • 3rd place in HOSA Regional Leadership Convention

    Placed 3rd in HOSA's World Health and Disparities competitive event at the Regional Leadership Conference.

  • Superior Junior Cadet Decoration Award

    Awarded the Superior Junior Cadet Decoration for being selected as the outstanding cadet in my class during the 2025–2026 academic year.

  • national honor society

    Selected for membership in the National Honor Society based on excellence in scholarship, leadership, service, and character.

  • American Red Cross Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED Certification.

    Completed American Red Cross certification in Adult and Pediatric First Aid, CPR, and AED use, developing emergency response and life-saving skills.

  • Heart of Gold Award

    Recognized for exceptional kindness, team spirit, and willingness to help others both on and off the rifle team.

  • AP Scholar

    Awarded AP Scholar recognition by the College Board for earning scores of 3 or higher on three or more Advanced Placement exams.

  • College Board National Recognition Program – School Recognition Award

    Recognized by the College Board National Recognition Program for outstanding academic achievement and excellence in rigorous coursework.

  • Florida Health Certificate of Recognition – Our Smiles Count Adolescent Project

    Recognized by Florida Health for participation in the Our Smiles Count Adolescent Project, a statewide community service initiative supporting oral health assessment and public health research.

  • Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Certificate of Appreciation

    Received a Certificate of Appreciation from the Veterans of Foreign Wars for participation in a scholarship program supporting veterans, active-duty service members, and military families.

  • The Captain’s Award

    Academic Award for having a GPA of 3.5-4.0+

  • National FFA Organization – Greenhand Degree

    Earned the Greenhand Degree for demonstrating agricultural knowledge, leadership potential, and active participation in FFA activities.

  • AHEC – Gulfcoast South Health Careers Summer Camp

    Completed the Gulfcoast South AHEC Health Careers Summer Camp, exploring healthcare professions and developing career readiness in the health sciences.

  • AEST Certification – Agriculture Associate

    Earned Agriculture Associate Certification, demonstrating foundational knowledge and skills in agricultural science and industry practices.

Goals and interests

Career goal

I plan to pursue a career in healthcare as either a doctor or a specialized nurse. My current interests include cardiology, neurology, emergency medicine, and family medicine because they combine science, problem-solving, and patient care. I am committed to attending college and continuing my education through medical school or an advanced nursing program, and I look forward to exploring different specialties as I gain more experience.

Graduate school interests

• Medical School (M.D. or D.O.)
• Nursing School (MSN, DNP, or Nurse Practitioner programs)
• Cardiology
• Neurology
• Emergency Medicine
• Family Medicine
• Pediatrics
• Public Health
• Healthcare Administration
• Biomedical Sciences

Outside the classroom

I enjoy painting, drawing, reading, and cooking in my free time. I also enjoy learning about healthcare and medical topics, volunteering, listening to music, spending time outdoors, and exploring creative projects. These hobbies allow me to express my creativity while continuing to grow academically and personally.

Experience

  • team member

    Kilwins

    Jun 2024 – Jul 2026

  • team lead

    Mariah’s Juices

    Jul 2023 – Nov 2024

Volunteering

  • Sarasota Memorial Hospital Volunteer: Assisted hospital staff, welcomed patients and visitors, and contributed to a positive healthcare environment through service and support activities.

    Sarasota Memorial Hospital

    Jul 2026 – Present

  • Suncoast Challenge Volunteer: event volunteer that assisted with event operations and participant support for a charitable cycling event raising funds and awareness for people affected by multiple sclerosis.

    National Multiple Sclerosis Society – Bike MS: Suncoast Challenge

    Mar 2026

  • American Red Cross Volunteer: supported community service initiatives and disaster preparedness efforts while promoting health, safety, and volunteer engagement.

    American Red Cross

    Aug 2025 – Mar 2026

  • HOSA Volunteer Member: participated in health-related community service projects, promoted health awareness, and supported events focused on healthcare education and service.

    HOSA–Future Health Professionals

    Aug 2024 – Present

  • Cadet Volunteer: assisted with school and community service events, supported veterans' programs, participated in leadership activities, and contributed to projects benefiting the local community.

    JROTC

    Aug 2023 – Present

Languages

  • English (US) Advanced
  • Spanish Advanced

Additional information