Jiya Patil of California has been selected by the American Meditation Institute (AMI) as the recipient of the fifth Annual National Conscience Month Essay Contest. For her insightful reflection on relying on conscience in decision-making, Patil will receive a $2,000 scholarship towards higher education.
National Conscience Month, celebrated in January yearly, aims to encourage individuals from all backgrounds to depend on their conscience in decision-making. Patil, a senior at Foothill High School in Pleasanton, shared her journey of overcoming emotional challenges and embracing her conscience’s guidance in her winning essay.
In her essay, Patil highlighted the importance of conscientious decision-making, reflecting on societal issues and personal experiences. She emphasized the need to prioritize ethical choices over personal gain, citing examples from cheating in academics to environmental degradation.
Beyond her academic achievements, Patil is the founder of the Gold Bear Foundation, a non-profit supporting economically disadvantaged individuals. Under her leadership, the organization has grown to over 170 members, with 12 regional and international chapters, providing aid to thousands through essential donations.
Leonard Perlmutter, the originator of Conscience Month, emphasized the power of conscience in addressing contemporary challenges, underscoring its role in fostering creative solutions and transforming society.
