Apr 11, 2025
Mahak Tiwari once struggled with her academics, but she was able to turn herself around at Palomar College to become an active member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society and the recipient of a $1,500 scholarship.
Tiwari was selected to receive the Oberndorf Lifeline to Completion Scholarship, given to Phi Theta Kappa members to help them overcome financial barriers preventing the completion of their education. The scholarship is named for Rosemary and Lou Oberndorf. Lou Oberndorf co-founded METI, a world leader in medical education technology.
Tiwari, who is majoring in biochemistry, was appreciative of the scholarship. She plans to graduate from Palomar College in spring 2026 and transfer to Washington State University.
“This allows me to continue my associate degree,” she said. “When I transfer, it helps with lessening of costs such as rent and tuition.”
Tiwari was diagnosed at birth with cerebral palsy, which required her to undergo multiple surgeries. She had to relearn to walk several times while enduring painful physical therapy, and she now uses crutches to help her walk.
“I faced many challenges, but these experiences instilled in me resilience, courage, and adaptability,” she said. “Over time, I learned to embrace my strength, push through difficulties, and redefine what I was capable of achieving.”
Tiwari initially attended Mt. San Jacinto College in 2017 after she graduated from high school. She said she suffered from personal and mental health challenges that led to her being expelled from the college.
She enrolled in Palomar College in Spring 2024, where she has excelled academically. She has a 4.0 grade point average, making her eligible for Phi Theta Kappa. In the honor society, she has served as vice president of fellowship and membership. Tiwari praised Palomar College Professors and Chapter Advisors Dana O’Callaghan and Jennifer Backman for their work with Phi Theta Kappa.
O’Callaghan said Tiwari has come up with innovative ideas for the organization, such as organizing a virtual movie night for members.
“She has been enthusiastic, passionate and forward-thinking about Phi Theta Kappa,” O’Callaghan said. “She’s been a great asset to the chapter.”
Tiwari said she plans to pursue a career in brain and spinal cord cancer as a physician-scientist, based on her own health challenges and her parents’ battles with cancer, now in remission.
“These experiences have fueled my commitment to advancing cancer treatment and making a meaningful impact in the field,” she said.
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