Duke University | Baldwin Scholars Program
Neelima Navuluri
Born and raised in Hobbs, New Mexico, the diversity and the opportunities Duke provides, many of which are a stark contrast to those at home, has won my affection for the place (that and the basketball). In just a few short months I have made friends from all over the world, been exposed to what seems like a million different cultures and ideas, and found my niche in a place so far from the place I’ve called home for seventeen years.
I have always been one to dream big. So even though I have little idea what my major is, I know I will make my way to medical school and pursue a career with the World Health Organization, thereby combining my passion for providing help and for traveling. I have been to India four times, visiting family, touring, and experiencing the intriguing culture which adds much to my identity. I am currently a member of the Duke Red Cross and chair of the Emergency Services committee, as well as a member of Nourish International and Diya. I love to play tennis and the piano, and thoroughly enjoy sitting around and doing nothing.
Having recently lost my dad, my role model and one of the two people (my mom being the other) I could without a doubt rely on, I have realized the importance of having a close-knit support network – something the Baldwin Scholars program has already provided. Furthermore, I have learned, or at least am trying to learn, how to persevere through the roughest of times and that no matter what there is someone that is always watching over me and supporting me in all that I do. And because of this, I have the confidence to know that I will be able to make the most out the rest of my time at Duke and succeed in the years to come. I look forward to working with and learning from such a talented group of young women, and the amazing, enriching experiences to come.