Alberta Bean Memorial Scholarship

My name is Ashley McBride, and I am a first-generation college student pursuing my Bachelor of Health Sciences in Respiratory Therapy at the University of Missouri–Columbia. For the past twelve years, I have served as a respiratory therapist specializing in adult critical care, with additional experience in neonatal and pediatric patients. My journey has not been a traditional one, but it has been defined by resilience, faith, and an unwavering commitment to making a difference in the lives of others. At eleven years old, I faced a loss that shaped the course of my life: my mother was murdered by an ex-boyfriend who refused to accept her decision to leave the relationship. In a single moment, my siblings and I lost not only our mother, but the guidance, protection, and stability that many children take for granted. My father did not step in to fill the gap, leaving us to navigate grief and survival largely on our own. Growing up, I carried a quiet anger, insecurity, and a sense of abandonment. I often struggled with communication and self-confidence, which made me feel voiceless during crucial times of my life. But instead of allowing this tragedy to define me, I began to see my pain as a catalyst for growth. I learned resilience at an early age, and over time I found healing through service to others. Becoming a respiratory therapist gave me purpose. I discovered that being present for patients and families during their most vulnerable moments allowed me to transform my personal grief into empathy and action. Every time I walk into an ICU or NICU, I know I am living out my mother’s legacy by being a source of care, strength, and compassion for others. As a first-generation college student, the path has never been easy. I did not have parents to guide me through applications, financial aid, or choosing a career path. Every step required self-advocacy, trial and error, and determination. I initially earned a BA in Liberal Studies but realized that my calling was in healthcare. After years of hands-on experience, I returned to school for advanced respiratory therapy because I want to expand my impact and contribute more deeply to patient care, research, and education. College is not just about a degree for me—it is about breaking generational cycles, proving to myself and others that perseverance creates opportunity, and building a foundation for the next chapter of my career. My current role as a respiratory therapist has shown me the critical role our profession plays in saving lives. Yet, I also see the limitations of the role as it currently exists. That is why I am determined to continue my education and pursue opportunities such as becoming an Advanced Practice Respiratory Therapist (APRT) or transitioning into the Anesthesiologist Assistant pathway. These advanced roles will allow me to take on greater responsibility in patient care, especially in high-stakes critical care environments, while also mentoring and training future therapists. My goal is not only personal advancement, but to leave a mark on healthcare by advocating for innovation, equity, and education within respiratory care. Beyond the hospital, I am also passionate about using my story to inspire others. I am currently working on a children’s book that speaks to kids who grow up without a mother or father due to violence. I know firsthand how isolating and painful that experience can be, and I want to provide a message of hope, resilience, and healing for young people facing similar challenges. Writing has become a way for me to process my past while building a bridge for others. In addition, I am developing a sorority-based business called Golden Legacy, a brand inspired by my membership in Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. This venture blends tradition, aesthetics, and empowerment, and reflects my belief that women can create opportunities for themselves and others by building with vision and integrity. Despite my drive and ambition, financial need remains a significant barrier. As a working professional balancing full-time night shifts, part-time studies, and family responsibilities, I often feel the strain of competing priorities. I am also managing debt repayment while preparing to purchase my first home in 2026. Every dollar matters, and every scholarship helps lessen the burden so that I can focus more fully on my education and service. Receiving the Alberta Bean Memorial Scholarship would not only ease the financial strain of my studies, but also serve as a reminder that I am not on this journey alone—that others believe in my potential to make a lasting difference. Ambition, drive, and impact are at the heart of who I am. My ambition is to grow beyond my current role and lead in advanced healthcare, education, and advocacy. My drive is evidenced in my ability to juggle work, school, and personal challenges while continuing to excel and push forward. And my impact is already seen in the lives of patients and families I have served, and will one day be multiplied through research, teaching, writing, and mentorship. To me, this scholarship is not just financial support; it is a partnership in carrying forward the legacy of Alberta Bean. Like her, I want to leave the world better than I found it. With this scholarship, I will continue to honor my mother’s memory, inspire the next generation of students and patients, and fulfill my calling as a healthcare leader and advocate. Thank you for considering my application.

My name is Lamiyah Martin, and I am a senior at Pattonville High School in Maryland Heights, Missouri. I am thrilled to share that I will be continuing my education at the University of Missouri-St. Louis (UMSL) this fall, where I will major in Political Science. As I stand at the cusp of this significant transition, I am filled with a sense of purpose and determination. I am eager to delve into the world of political science, not just as an academic pursuit but as a means to impact society positively. This essay aims to provide insight into my background, my aspirations, and the profound significance of this scholarship in my journey. My journey thus far has been shaped by a combination of personal experiences, family values, and community involvement. Growing up in a culturally diverse neighborhood, I was exposed to a multitude of perspectives and experiences that have significantly broadened my worldview. My mother, an ardent believer in the power of education and civic responsibility, has been my pillar of support. She has always encouraged me to pursue my passions and to never shy away from challenges. Throughout my high school years, I have been actively involved in a second school called North County Tech where I earned my cosmetology license which has allowed me to develop my leadership and communication skills. My involvement in the debate club honed my analytical and public speaking skills, teaching me the importance of constructing logical arguments and considering multiple viewpoints. Additionally, my volunteer work with local non-profits has instilled in me a deep sense of empathy and a commitment to community service. Choosing UMSL for my higher education was a decision driven by several factors. UMSL's Political Science program is renowned for its rigorous curriculum and emphasis on practical experience. The university's commitment to community engagement and social justice aligns perfectly with my own values and aspirations. I am particularly excited about the opportunities to participate in internships, research projects, and community service initiatives that UMSL offers. My decision to major in Political Science stems from my desire to understand the complexities of governance, policy-making, and international relations. I am fascinated by the ways in which political systems operate and how they can be reformed to promote social justice and equality. My academic goals include deepening my knowledge of political theory, enhancing my research skills, and gaining practical experience through internships and community engagement. I aspire to pursue a career in public service, where I can contribute to shaping policies that address systemic inequalities and improve the lives of marginalized communities. My passion for political science is driven by a desire to make a meaningful impact on the world. I believe that understanding the intricacies of political systems is crucial for advocating for effective policies that promote social justice and equality. Throughout my life, I have witnessed the profound impact that policies can have on individuals and communities. This has fueled my determination to work towards creating a more just and equitable society. One of my primary goals is to advocate for criminal justice reform. I am deeply troubled by the systemic injustices that plague our criminal justice system, particularly the disproportionate impact on marginalized communities. I plan to use my education to research and advocate for policies that address these issues, such as ending mass incarceration, promoting restorative justice practices, and ensuring equitable access to legal representation. In addition to criminal justice reform, I am passionate about issues such as affordable healthcare and educational equity. I believe that access to quality healthcare and education is a fundamental human right, and I am committed to advocating for policies that ensure these rights are accessible to all. During my time at UMSL, I plan to engage in initiatives that address these issues, whether through research, community service, or advocacy work. For me, attending college is not just an opportunity to gain knowledge; it is a chance to grow as an individual and contribute to a greater cause. Higher education represents the key to unlocking my potential and achieving my dreams. It is a pathway to acquiring the skills and expertise needed to tackle complex societal issues. College will provide me with the platform to engage with diverse perspectives, challenge my assumptions, and develop innovative solutions to pressing problems. Moreover, college is a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. It is an opportunity to explore my interests, develop my talents, and build lasting relationships with peers and mentors. I am eager to immerse myself in the academic and social environment at UMSL, where I can learn from and collaborate with individuals who share my passion for social justice and community engagement. While I am determined to pursue my educational goals, I face significant financial challenges. My family has always worked hard to provide for me, but the cost of college tuition, books, and living expenses presents a substantial burden. This scholarship would not only alleviate the financial strain on my family but also allow me to focus on my studies and extracurricular activities without the constant worry of financial instability. Receiving this scholarship would have a profound impact