When it comes to pursuing her passion in life, California native Olivia Bejar is following her heart—and her mind. The 1,000 Dreams Fund Scholarship recipient is attending the prestigious University of California, Berkeley, where she plans to begin her journey to becoming a cardiovascular surgeon. By healing broken hearts (literally!), she hopes to help make life happier for those who are suffering.

What is your professional dream?

My professional dream is to be a cardiovascular surgeon.

How will you use the 1,000 Dreams Scholarship?

I will use the 1,000 Dreams Scholarship to continue my education in order to make this world a better place—not only for those in my family, but also for those who genuinely deserve to spend their lives happy and free from suffering.

How is this helping you get closer to your dream? 

This scholarship brings me closer to being free of debt in college, which makes it easier for my future growth.

What advice do you have for other young women looking to go for their dreams?

Young women should pursue every opportunity they can, so that their experiences in life can measure up to the passion in their soul. They need not look for things to just put on their résumé, but instead know that each experience shapes them in a strong way.

Any setbacks? How did you get around them?

It is challenging to be at one of the top schools, and sometimes I don’t receive grades that are satisfactory to me. But, I am continually motivated by people who believe in me enough to provide me with scholarships along with my family and everyone else who has ever believed in me.

What’s next for you? What is your next goal?

My next goal is to graduate with my head held high, knowing I have graduated from one of the most prestigious universities in the world.