Last year, while volunteering at a hospital, I had an experience that I still think about today. It was a Saturday when I first noticed a patient who needed more help than she was receiving. I saw staff checking on her throughout the day, but I noticed that she could barely move one of her hands. She could not feed herself, and there was dried juice on her blanket that looked like it had been there for a while. The next day, I decided to check on her myself. I did not want to just walk past her room. I wanted to talk to her and see if she needed anything. When I spoke with her, she asked me, “Can you help me eat?” Then she asked if I could change her blanket. I immediately helped her and changed the blanket. As I spent more time with her, I realized that she had barely eaten because she could not feed herself. That really bothered me. I kept thinking about how someone could be checking on her but still not realize that she physically could not do something as simple as feed herself. She was not asking for anything unreasonable. She just needed someone to notice. So I sat down and fed her. I did not rush through it or leave after a few minutes. I stayed with her because she wanted someone there, and honestly, I did not want to leave her either. I ended up staying for about three extra hours. During that time, she kept asking for Pepsi. She would say, “I want Pepsi,” and I wanted to make sure she got it. I asked the nurses if she was allowed to have Pepsi, and once they said it was okay, I went downstairs and bought her a bottle. I brought it back to her and made sure she had what she needed before I left. I remember leaving that day feeling emotional because I kept thinking about how easily someone could feel forgotten when they are unable to speak up for themselves or do things independently. That experience changed the way I look at healthcare. I realized that taking care of someone is not only about completing medical tasks. It is also about paying attention, listening, noticing the little things, and making someone feel like they matter. That patient did not know me before I walked into her room, and I did not know her before that weekend. But for those few hours, I became someone she could depend on. That meant something to me. That experience strengthened my desire to become a nurse. I want to be the person who notices when something is wrong, even when nobody asks me directly. I want my patients to feel comfortable, heard, and cared for. Most importantly, I want them to know that they are not just another patient in a hospital room. They are a person who deserves patience, kindness, dignity, and someone willing to stay a little longer when they need it.

My name is Adara Samuel, and I am from Harford County, Maryland. I am a first year nursing student at Morgan State University, and I am working toward my goal of becoming a Registered Nurse. I have always wanted to make a difference in other people's lives, and nursing gives me the opportunity to do that while building a career that I am truly passionate about. Being born with Spina bifida has had a major impact on the person I am today and the goals I have for my future. I have spent a lot of my life around hospitals, doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals. My experiences as a patient have allowed me to see how much a difference a caring health professional can make. There were times when I was scared,nervous, or unsure about what was going to happen, but having people around me who made me feel comfortable helped me get through those moments. Those experiences are a big reason why I want to become a nurse. I want to be able to give someone else the same comfort and support that I have received. My goal is to graduate from Morgan State University with my nursing degree, become a Registered Nurse, and continue my education, and earn my Doctor or Nursing Practice. I want to use my education and my personal experiences to advocate for patients and make sure they feel heard, respected, and cared for. I also want to encourage other young people to pursue careers in healthcare and show them their circumstances do not have to limit what they can accomplish. This scholarship would help me move closer to those goals by helping with the cost of my education and allowing me to focus more on becoming the best nursing student I can be. College comes with many expenses, including tuition, books, supplies, transportation, and other things that are necessary for success. Receiving this scholarship would take some of that financial pressure off of me and allow me to put more energy into classes, clinical experiences, and personal growth. After graduation, I want to enter the healthcare field prepared, confident, and ready to make an impact. I want to build a successful career, continue learning, and earn my DNP so I can have an even greater impact on my patients and my community. I am proud to come from Harford County, Maryland, and I want my journey to show that where you come from does not determine how far you can go. With hard work, determination, and the support of opportunities like this scholarship, I believe I can accomplish my goals and make a difference in the lives of others.

My goal for my medical career is to become a Registered Nurse and eventually earn my Doctor of Nursing Practice. Being born with Spina bifida has played a major role in why I want to purse nursing. Growing up, I have spent a lot of time around doctors, nurses, hospitals, and different healthcare professionals. Because of my own experiences as a patient, I have seen how important it is to have healthcare workers who are not only knowledgeable, but also caring, understanding, and able to make their patients feel safe. I want to become the type of nurse who can give patients that same feeling of comfort and protection that I have experienced. My long term goal is to become an RN, continue my education, and eventually ear my DNP. I want to keep growing in the nursing profession and use my experiences to help other people, especially patients who may feel scared or unsure about their healthcare. I know what it feels like to be a patient and have to trust other people with your health, and I want to be someone that patients can feel comfortable trusting. I also believe it is extremely important to increase racial diversity in healthcare because representation can make patients feel seen, understood, and safe. I experienced this personally when I had surgery about a year ago. When I was rolled into the operating room, I noticed that there were so many people who looked like me. My anesthesiologist was black, just like me, and he was funny and made me feel comfortable. Everyone around me made me feel like I was in a safe environment. It is hard to fully explain, but seeing people who looked like me made me feel protected. I felt like I could relax and trust the people taking care of me. That experience showed me how powerful representation can be. Before surgery, there can be so many thoughts and fears running through your mind. Seeing someone who looks like you can create a sense of comfort that you may not even realize you need until you experience it. It made me realize that having more black healthcare professionals can help other black patients feel that same sense of safety and trust. Increasing racial diversity in healthcare is not only about representation. It is also about creating a healthcare system where patients from different backgrounds feel respected, understood, and confident in the people caring for them. I want to be part of that change. As a future black nurse, I hope to use my career to make patients feel heard, cared for, and protected, while showing other young people that they can see themselves in healthcare too.

Living with Spina Bifida has shaped every part of who I am, from my mindset to my goals for the future. It has influenced how I see challenges, how I approach education, and how I connect with others. While it has come with many difficult moments, it has also given me strength, resilience, and a deep sense of purpose. I was born with Spina Bifida and have undergone more than 19 surgeries throughout my life. Because of this, hospitals have been a regular part of my life for as long as I can remember. Growing up in and out of medical settings made me more aware of how fragile health can be, but also how powerful care and support can be. There were times when I felt frustrated, tired, or different from other people my age, especially when I had to miss school or recover from surgeries. However, those experiences taught me patience and helped me learn how to keep going even when things were not easy. One of the biggest ways my disability has influenced me is by showing me the importance of empathy. I know what it feels like to be in pain, to be anxious before a procedure, and to rely on others for help. Because of that, I naturally pay attention to how others are feeling, especially people who are struggling or uncomfortable. I think this is what led me toward nursing. I do not just want to treat patients medically; I want to make them feel understood and cared for as human beings. My experiences have also shaped my goals in school. I take my education seriously because I understand that it is directly connected to my future career and independence. I know that becoming a nurse requires dedication, focus, and strong academic performance. Even on days when things are challenging, I remind myself of everything I have already overcome and the reasons I started this journey. Being a first generation college student also motivates me because I want to set an example for my family and show that obstacles do not define your future. Beyond school, my disability has influenced what I hope to accomplish in life. I want to become a nurse who makes patients feel safe, comfortable, and supported. I want to be the person who takes time to sit with someone, explain things clearly, and offer reassurance when they are scared. I also hope to advocate for patients with disabilities and help improve the way healthcare systems treat and support them. Most importantly, Spina Bifida has not stopped me from dreaming big. Instead, it has given me a stronger purpose. It has taught me that I can face challenges and still move forward. I do not see my disability as something that limits me, but as something that has helped shape my compassion, determination, and goals for the future. As I continue my education and move into my career, I want my experiences to serve as a reminder that strength can come from the very challenges we overcome.

My personal inspiration for pursuing a career in nursing comes from my own experiences as a patient. I have had nineteen surgeries throughout my life, and each one taught me something different about fear, strength, and compassion. Being in and out of hospitals for so long gave me a front-row seat to what healthcare truly looks like, not just from a medical standpoint, but from a human one. What inspired me the most were the nurses who cared for me during my hardest moments. I remember feeling scared before surgeries, unsure of what would happen, and trying to stay strong even when I felt like I couldn’t. In those moments, it was the nurses who made the biggest difference. They took time to reassure me, explain things gently, and treat me like more than just a patient. Their kindness helped ease my fear in ways medicine alone could not. Those experiences stayed with me as I grew older. I realized that I wanted to be that same source of comfort for someone else, especially for children who may be going through similar fears. I know what it feels like to be young and overwhelmed in a hospital setting, and I want to be the person who brings calm into that environment. Nursing became my goal because it combines everything I care about: helping others, showing compassion, and making a real difference in people’s lives. My experiences did not just shape my understanding of healthcare, they gave me a purpose. As I continued to reflect on my journey, I began to understand that nursing is not only about treating illness, but also about supporting the emotional side of healing. Pain, fear, and uncertainty can be just as overwhelming as the physical condition itself, especially for children who may not fully understand what is happening to them. I want to be the kind of nurse who recognizes that emotional need and responds with patience, empathy, and kindness. My experiences have also taught me the importance of gratitude. After each surgery, I became more aware of how valuable life is and how much of a difference compassionate care can make. Even small gestures from healthcare workers like a reassuring voice, a gentle explanation, or simply being present had a lasting impact on me. Those moments showed me that nursing is not just a profession, but a calling that requires both skill and heart. In the future, I want to use my degree to become a pediatric nurse who provides more than medical care. I want to be someone who children can trust during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. I want to advocate for them, comfort them, and help them feel safe when everything around them feels uncertain. Ultimately, my inspiration for nursing comes from my own story, but my purpose is to use that story to change someone else’s. Every experience I have been through has led me to this path, and I am committed to turning my journey into a source of healing for others.

My name is Adara, and I am a high school senior currently pursuing college coursework in Computer Information Systems while preparing to transition into the healthcare field to become a pediatric nurse. As I move closer to graduation, I continue to reflect on how my personal journey has shaped not only my education, but also my purpose in life. I was born with Spina Bifida, a condition that has impacted my mobility and required multiple surgeries and ongoing medical care throughout my life. Because of this, my school experience has not always been easy or traditional. I have missed days of school due to appointments, recovery time, and medical needs. There have also been moments where I had to push through pain, fatigue, or physical limitations just to keep up with coursework and responsibilities. Despite these challenges, I have always remained committed to my education because I know that my future is bigger than my circumstances. Living with a disability has taught me how to advocate for myself in environments that are not always built with accessibility in mind. Whether it was communicating with teachers about missed work, planning ahead for medical absences, or learning how to manage my time around health needs, I have developed resilience, discipline, and independence. These experiences have shaped me into someone who does not give up easily and who understands the importance of persistence. More importantly, my disability has deeply influenced my career path. Being in hospitals from a young age and experiencing healthcare as a patient has shown me both the challenges and the beauty of the medical field. I have had nurses who made me feel seen, safe, and cared for during some of my hardest moments. Those experiences inspired my desire to become a pediatric nurse. I want to be that same source of comfort and reassurance for children who are scared, hurting, or unsure. I understand what it feels like to be on the other side of care, and that perspective motivates me every day. Additional financial support would have a meaningful impact on my ability to continue my education and pursue my goals. It would help cover tuition costs, textbooks, medical expenses, and transportation related to my condition. Managing the financial burden of college while also handling ongoing healthcare needs can be overwhelming at times, and this support would allow me to focus more on my academics and clinical preparation rather than stress over expenses. It would also give me access to resources that support my learning and overall well-being as I continue advancing in my studies. As I look toward the future, I am determined to earn my degree, become a pediatric nurse, and use my experiences to make a difference in the lives of others. My journey has not been easy, but it has given me strength, empathy, and purpose. I want to prove that having a disability does not limit your potential it simply shapes the kind of strength you carry into everything you do.

One of the most influential experiences in my life comes from caring for my great grandfather, who suffered a stroke that left him unable to walk and dependent on full-time care for the rest of his life. He was bedridden for as long as I can remember, all the way until he passed away. Even though I was young, being around him shaped me in ways I did not fully understand at the time, but I understand now. Every time I went to my great grandmother’s house, I naturally stepped into the role of helping care for him. It was never something I was forced to do. I just wanted to help. I would help prepare his meals and get his milk ready so it could be placed into his feeding tube. I learned how careful you have to be with every step because even small things mattered in his care. I also helped with cleaning him when needed, making sure he was as comfortable as possible. One of the more difficult parts was learning how to assist with his medical needs, like helping manage the drainage when he had buildup in his mouth. It was not easy to see or do, but over time I learned to handle it without fear because I understood it was part of keeping him comfortable and cared for. I also helped move him from his bed to his chair when needed, making sure he was supported and safe during transfers. We also made sure he was always comfortable in other small ways, like helping charge his equipment and adjusting things around him so he could rest peacefully. But out of everything I did, the most important thing was simply sitting with him and talking to him. Even though he could not walk or do many things on his own, he was still very much present. I would talk to him about my day, sit beside him, and make sure he did not feel alone. Those moments taught me something I did not realize back then. I learned that care is not only physical, it is emotional. It is about presence, patience, and making someone feel seen even when they are at their weakest. My great grandfather could not respond the way he used to, but I still believe he felt the comfort of having someone there who cared. Experiencing that at a young age shaped me into a more compassionate and patient person. It also played a major role in my decision to pursue nursing. I saw firsthand what long-term care looks like, not just medically, but emotionally for both the patient and the family. I understand the importance of dignity, comfort, and kindness in healthcare. Because of him, I know I want to be a nurse who does more than just provide treatment. I want to be someone who shows up fully for my patients, who understands their needs beyond the surface, and who treats every person with the same care and respect I gave my great grandfather. His life and my time caring for him taught me that even in silence, presence matters. And that lesson is something I will carry with me into my future career as a nurse.

My personal inspiration for pursuing a career in nursing comes from my own experiences as a patient. I have had nineteen surgeries throughout my life, and each one taught me something different about fear, strength, and compassion. Being in and out of hospitals for so long gave me a front-row seat to what healthcare truly looks like, not just from a medical standpoint, but from a human one. What inspired me the most were the nurses who cared for me during my hardest moments. I remember feeling scared before surgeries, unsure of what would happen, and trying to stay strong even when I felt like I couldn’t. In those moments, it was the nurses who made the biggest difference. They took time to reassure me, explain things gently, and treat me like more than just a patient. Their kindness helped ease my fear in ways medicine alone could not. Those experiences stayed with me as I grew older. I realized that I wanted to be that same source of comfort for someone else, especially for children who may be going through similar fears. I know what it feels like to be young and overwhelmed in a hospital setting, and I want to be the person who brings calm into that environment. Nursing became my goal because it combines everything I care about: helping others, showing compassion, and making a real difference in people’s lives. My experiences did not just shape my understanding of healthcare, they gave me a purpose. As I continued to reflect on my journey, I began to understand that nursing is not only about treating illness, but also about supporting the emotional side of healing. Pain, fear, and uncertainty can be just as overwhelming as the physical condition itself, especially for children who may not fully understand what is happening to them. I want to be the kind of nurse who recognizes that emotional need and responds with patience, empathy, and kindness. My experiences have also taught me the importance of gratitude. After each surgery, I became more aware of how valuable life is and how much of a difference compassionate care can make. Even small gestures from healthcare workers like a reassuring voice, a gentle explanation, or simply being present had a lasting impact on me. Those moments showed me that nursing is not just a profession, but a calling that requires both skill and heart. In the future, I want to use my degree to become a pediatric nurse who provides more than medical care. I want to be someone who children can trust during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. I want to advocate for them, comfort them, and help them feel safe when everything around them feels uncertain. Ultimately, my inspiration for nursing comes from my own story, but my purpose is to use that story to change someone else’s. Every experience I have been through has led me to this path, and I am committed to turning my journey into a source of healing for others.

My personal inspiration for pursuing a career in nursing comes from my own experiences as a patient. I have had nineteen surgeries throughout my life, and each one taught me something different about fear, strength, and compassion. Being in and out of hospitals for so long gave me a front-row seat to what healthcare truly looks like, not just from a medical standpoint, but from a human one. What inspired me the most were the nurses who cared for me during my hardest moments. I remember feeling scared before surgeries, unsure of what would happen, and trying to stay strong even when I felt like I couldn’t. In those moments, it was the nurses who made the biggest difference. They took time to reassure me, explain things gently, and treat me like more than just a patient. Their kindness helped ease my fear in ways medicine alone could not. Those experiences stayed with me as I grew older. I realized that I wanted to be that same source of comfort for someone else, especially for children who may be going through similar fears. I know what it feels like to be young and overwhelmed in a hospital setting, and I want to be the person who brings calm into that environment. Nursing became my goal because it combines everything I care about: helping others, showing compassion, and making a real difference in people’s lives. My experiences did not just shape my understanding of healthcare, they gave me a purpose. As I continued to reflect on my journey, I began to understand that nursing is not only about treating illness, but also about supporting the emotional side of healing. Pain, fear, and uncertainty can be just as overwhelming as the physical condition itself, especially for children who may not fully understand what is happening to them. I want to be the kind of nurse who recognizes that emotional need and responds with patience, empathy, and kindness. My experiences have also taught me the importance of gratitude. After each surgery, I became more aware of how valuable life is and how much of a difference compassionate care can make. Even small gestures from healthcare workers like a reassuring voice, a gentle explanation, or simply being present had a lasting impact on me. Those moments showed me that nursing is not just a profession, but a calling that requires both skill and heart. In the future, I want to use my degree to become a pediatric nurse who provides more than medical care. I want to be someone who children can trust during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. I want to advocate for them, comfort them, and help them feel safe when everything around them feels uncertain. Ultimately, my inspiration for nursing comes from my own story, but my purpose is to use that story to change someone else’s. Every experience I have been through has led me to this path, and I am committed to turning my journey into a source of healing for others.

My personal inspiration for pursuing a career in nursing comes from my own experiences as a patient. I have had nineteen surgeries throughout my life, and each one taught me something different about fear, strength, and compassion. Being in and out of hospitals for so long gave me a front-row seat to what healthcare truly looks like, not just from a medical standpoint, but from a human one. What inspired me the most were the nurses who cared for me during my hardest moments. I remember feeling scared before surgeries, unsure of what would happen, and trying to stay strong even when I felt like I couldn’t. In those moments, it was the nurses who made the biggest difference. They took time to reassure me, explain things gently, and treat me like more than just a patient. Their kindness helped ease my fear in ways medicine alone could not. Those experiences stayed with me as I grew older. I realized that I wanted to be that same source of comfort for someone else, especially for children who may be going through similar fears. I know what it feels like to be young and overwhelmed in a hospital setting, and I want to be the person who brings calm into that environment. Nursing became my goal because it combines everything I care about: helping others, showing compassion, and making a real difference in people’s lives. My experiences did not just shape my understanding of healthcare they gave me a purpose. To me, the phrase “human touch” means more than physical contact. It represents compassion, presence, and the ability to make someone feel seen, valued, and understood during vulnerable moments. It is the emotional connection that reminds a patient they are not just a diagnosis or a number, but a human being with fears, emotions, and a story. In healthcare, “human touch” can be just as important as medical treatment. It can show up in small but meaningful ways, like a reassuring voice, a moment of patience, or someone taking the time to truly listen. These actions may seem simple, but they can completely change a patient’s experience. From my own experience as a patient, I have felt the difference “human touch” makes. Going through nineteen surgeries meant facing fear repeatedly, especially as a child. There were moments when I felt overwhelmed and unsure of what was going to happen next. The nurses who showed kindness and patience made those moments less frightening. Even something as small as holding my hand, speaking calmly, or explaining things in a way I could understand helped me feel safe. Without that human connection, healthcare can feel cold and intimidating. But with it, it becomes comforting and healing. Patients are more likely to trust their care team, feel calmer during procedures, and cope better emotionally when they feel cared for as people, not just conditions.“Human touch” also impacts families. When a loved one is sick, families are often anxious and scared. A healthcare worker who shows empathy can bring comfort not only to the patient but to everyone who cares about them. It creates a sense of trust and reassurance during difficult times. In my future nursing career, I want to be someone who leads with that kind of care. I want patients to feel safe in my presence, to feel heard, and to feel less alone. I believe healing is not only physical but emotional, and “human touch” is what connects both. At its core, “human touch” is about reminding people of their humanity in moments when they may feel like they are losing it. And that is the kind of nurse I hope to become.

I chose to pursue the field of healthcare because it is deeply personal to me. My decision was shaped by years of being a patient myself and experiencing firsthand what it feels like to be in a hospital bed, scared, vulnerable, and unsure of what comes next. I have had nineteen surgeries, and each one taught me something different about pain, strength, and the importance of compassionate care. Over time, I began to notice that what stayed with me after each experience was not just the medical treatment, but the way people treated me. The nurses and healthcare workers who showed kindness, patience, and understanding made some of my hardest moments feel more manageable. Those small acts of compassion stayed with me long after I left the hospital. They made me realize that healthcare is not just about treating the body, but also caring for the emotional and mental well-being of a person. That realization is what led me to want to become a pediatric nurse. I know what it feels like to be a child in that environment, trying to be strong while quietly feeling afraid. I remember those moments clearly, and I never want another child to feel like they are facing that fear alone. I want to be the person who brings comfort into those rooms, who explains things gently, who reassures children when they are scared, and who reminds them that they are safe. I chose healthcare because I want my life to have purpose beyond myself. I want to take the experiences I have gone through and turn them into something meaningful for others. Instead of allowing my medical journey to define me in a negative way, I want it to shape me into someone who can help others through similar situations. In the future, I want to use my degree to become a pediatric nurse working directly with children in hospitals or specialized care settings. I want to be part of a healthcare team that not only focuses on healing but also on compassion and emotional support. Beyond bedside care, I also hope to continue growing in my field, learning as much as I can so I can provide the best care possible for my patients. My ultimate goal is to create impact in every space I enter. Whether it is through calming a scared child, supporting a worried family, or simply being a steady presence in difficult moments, I want my work to matter. Healthcare chose me in many ways before I even chose it. Now, I am choosing to take everything I have lived through and use it to become the kind of nurse I once needed.

What makes me different is not just my goals or personality, but the experiences that have shaped how I see people and the world around me. I have spent much of my life facing medical challenges, including nineteen surgeries, and those moments taught me things that cannot be learned in a classroom. They taught me fear, patience, resilience, and most importantly, empathy. Because of what I have been through, I notice things others may overlook. I can tell when someone is trying to hide their pain, when someone is nervous but pretending to be okay, or when someone just needs reassurance. I understand what it feels like to be in a vulnerable position, and that understanding allows me to connect with people in a real and meaningful way. My faith also plays a major role in who I am. I talk to God like He is right in front of me, because to me, He is. I speak to Him throughout my day, in my thoughts, in my prayers, and even in quiet moments when I don’t have the right words. That relationship keeps me grounded and reminds me that my life has purpose, even when I cannot see the full picture. I have learned that I may never know who is watching me. It could be someone I pass in the hallway, someone I sit next to in class, or even someone who only sees a small moment of my life. But I also understand that small moments can have a big impact. A kind word, a smile, or simply showing patience with someone can change the way they feel in that moment or even longer. Because of this, I try to live with intention. I do not always have to do something big to make a difference. Sometimes it is just about being present, being kind, and being genuine. I want people to feel safe around me, understood, and valued, even in brief interactions. My experiences have also taught me that strength is not always loud. Sometimes it is quiet, like continuing to move forward after difficult days or choosing kindness even when life feels heavy. I want my life to reflect that kind of strength. I hope that the way I carry myself can positively impact others, even when I am not aware of it. Whether it is someone who needs encouragement, someone who feels alone, or someone who simply needs to see kindness in action, I want my presence to make a difference. Even if I never know who is watching, I want my life to reflect compassion, faith, and purpose in a way that speaks for itself.

I recently turned 18, and I am both a high school senior and a college student, preparing to graduate with my associate degree. While many people my age are just beginning to think about their future, my path has been shaped by experiences that forced me to grow up earlier than most. Living with a medical condition that has required multiple surgeries has played a major role in who I am today. I have spent countless days in hospitals, not just as a patient, but as someone learning from every moment. Through these experiences, I have developed resilience, strength, and a deep appreciation for life. I have also learned how important compassion is, especially in healthcare settings where patients are often at their most vulnerable. My time volunteering at the hospital allowed me to see a different perspective of the environment I had grown so familiar with. Instead of being the patient, I was able to support others, offer small acts of kindness, and observe the impact that healthcare workers have on people every day. That experience confirmed what I had already begun to realize through my own journey: I want to pursue a career in healthcare, specifically as a pediatric nurse. My goal is to create a future where I can make a meaningful difference in the lives of children who are facing the same fears I once had. I know what it feels like to be scared, uncertain, and in pain, and I want to be the person who brings comfort and reassurance during those moments. I want to turn my experiences into something positive by helping others through some of the most difficult times in their lives. Furthering my education is essential in helping me reach these goals. Earning my degree will provide me with the knowledge, skills, and training necessary to succeed in the healthcare field. It will also allow me to grow both personally and professionally, preparing me to take on the responsibilities that come with caring for others. This scholarship would play a significant role in supporting my journey. It would help ease the financial burden of continuing my education, allowing me to focus more on my studies and less on the stress of how I will afford them. With this support, I will be able to stay committed to my goals and continue working toward becoming a pediatric nurse. I am determined to build a future where I can make an impact, not only through my career, but through the way I connect with and care for others. Every challenge I have faced has shaped me into the person I am today, and I am ready to use those experiences to create a future filled with purpose, compassion, and success.

Speech and debate played a major role in shaping who I am today, especially my experience in extemporaneous speaking. In that event, I had to think quickly, organize my thoughts under pressure, and speak clearly on topics I was given in the moment. At first, it was intimidating. I wasn’t always confident in my voice, and I worried about saying the wrong thing. But over time, I learned how to trust myself. I learned how to stay calm, speak with purpose, and express my thoughts in a way that others could understand and connect with. That experience didn’t just help me become a better speaker, it helped me grow into someone more confident in everyday life. I no longer shy away from expressing what I believe. Instead, I’ve learned how powerful my voice can be when I use it with intention and heart. One of the most important parts of my life is my relationship with God. I don’t just see my faith as something I practice on Sundays, it is something I live and talk about every day. I love talking to God as if He is right in front of me, because to me, He is. He hears me, understands me, and walks with me through everything I face. If you are around me, you will hear me say it all the time: “Thank you God for the good and the bad.” I say it because I’ve learned that even my hardest moments have shaped me into who I am meant to be. My experiences in speech and debate helped me find the confidence to express that faith openly and without fear. Extemporaneous speaking taught me how to speak clearly and meaningfully, even when I’m thinking in the moment. That skill has carried into my faith, helping me feel more comfortable sharing what I believe with others. I am not afraid to talk about God or what He has done in my life, because I’ve learned that my voice matters and my story can impact others. This experience has also taught me the importance of listening. In speech and debate, understanding different perspectives is just as important as speaking your own. That has shaped how I share my faith, with kindness, respect, and compassion for others. Because of speech and debate, I am more confident, more grounded, and more willing to use my voice in every space I step into. And because of my faith, I know my voice has purpose beyond myself. Together, they have shaped me into someone who speaks with confidence, lives with gratitude, and believes deeply that every moment, good or bad, has meaning.

Compassion is something I once understood only from the perspective of receiving it. Growing up, I spent a significant amount of time in hospitals due to multiple surgeries. During those moments, I relied on the kindness of nurses and healthcare workers who made difficult situations feel a little less overwhelming. However, it wasn’t until I had the opportunity to give compassion to someone else that I truly understood its impact. While volunteering at a hospital, I encountered a young patient who reminded me of myself. They were quiet, visibly anxious, and trying to be strong despite being scared. I recognized the look immediately because I had worn it so many times before. Instead of walking past, I decided to sit with them for a moment. At first, the conversation was simple. I asked how they were feeling and tried to distract them with small talk. But as we continued talking, I could tell they were still nervous. So I shared a little bit of my own story. I told them that I understood what it felt like to be in their position, to not know what was going to happen next, and to be afraid even if you don’t show it. Something shifted in that moment. They began to open up, asking questions and expressing feelings they had been holding in. What started as a small interaction turned into a meaningful connection. Before I left, they smiled, and I could see a sense of calm that wasn’t there before. That experience changed my understanding of compassion. I realized that compassion is not always about fixing a problem or taking away someone’s pain. Sometimes, it is simply about being present, listening, and making someone feel seen and understood. It is about meeting someone where they are and reminding them that they are not alone. This situation affected me deeply because it showed me that my experiences, even the difficult ones, have purpose. The same moments that once made me feel vulnerable became the reason I was able to connect with someone else. It made me realize that compassion is one of the most powerful tools we have, and it does not require anything extraordinary, just empathy, time, and sincerity. Since that moment, I have carried a different perspective. I am more intentional about how I treat others, more aware of what someone might be going through, and more willing to step in and offer support. That experience reinforced my desire to pursue a career in healthcare, where compassion is just as important as skill. Compassion has the ability to change someone’s entire experience, even in the smallest ways. I witnessed that firsthand, and it is something I will continue to carry with me as I move forward in both my education and my future career.

I recently turned 18, and I am both a high school senior and a college student, preparing to graduate with my associate degree. While many people my age are just beginning to think about their future, my path has been shaped by experiences that forced me to grow up earlier than most. Living with a medical condition that has required multiple surgeries has played a major role in who I am today. I have spent countless days in hospitals, not just as a patient, but as someone learning from every moment. Through these experiences, I have developed resilience, strength, and a deep appreciation for life. I have also learned how important compassion is, especially in healthcare settings where patients are often at their most vulnerable. My time volunteering at the hospital allowed me to see a different perspective of the environment I had grown so familiar with. Instead of being the patient, I was able to support others, offer small acts of kindness, and observe the impact that healthcare workers have on people every day. That experience confirmed what I had already begun to realize through my own journey: I want to pursue a career in healthcare, specifically as a pediatric nurse. My goal is to create a future where I can make a meaningful difference in the lives of children who are facing the same fears I once had. I know what it feels like to be scared, uncertain, and in pain, and I want to be the person who brings comfort and reassurance during those moments. I want to turn my experiences into something positive by helping others through some of the most difficult times in their lives. Furthering my education is essential in helping me reach these goals. Earning my degree will provide me with the knowledge, skills, and training necessary to succeed in the healthcare field. It will also allow me to grow both personally and professionally, preparing me to take on the responsibilities that come with caring for others. This scholarship would play a significant role in supporting my journey. It would help ease the financial burden of continuing my education, allowing me to focus more on my studies and less on the stress of how I will afford them. With this support, I will be able to stay committed to my goals and continue working toward becoming a pediatric nurse. I am determined to build a future where I can make an impact, not only through my career, but through the way I connect with and care for others. Every challenge I have faced has shaped me into the person I am today, and I am ready to use those experiences to create a future filled with purpose, compassion, and success.

One moment that truly shaped my motivation to pursue higher education wasn’t just a single day, but a realization that came after one of my surgeries. I remember waking up, still in pain, but aware enough to take in everything around me. The steady beeping of machines, the quiet movement of nurses, and the feeling of being completely vulnerable stayed with me. But what stood out the most was the nurse who took care of me. She didn’t just do her job. She noticed when I was scared, even when I tried to hide it. She spoke to me gently, reassured me, and made me feel safe in a moment where I had every reason not to be. In that moment, I realized how much of a difference one person can make in someone’s life, especially during their most difficult times. Having gone through nineteen surgeries, I have experienced fear, uncertainty, and pain more times than most people my age. There were moments when I felt overwhelmed, moments where I questioned why I had to go through so much. But through all of it, I also experienced care, compassion, and strength from medical professionals who chose this field not just as a career, but as a purpose. That realization is what pushed me to take my education seriously, because I understood that my future career would require not only passion, but knowledge, discipline, and dedication. This experience influences the future I hope to create because I don’t just want success for myself. I want to become a pediatric nurse who creates safe spaces for children who feel the same fear I once felt. I want to be the person who eases their pain, who sits beside them when they are scared, and who reminds them that they are not alone. I want to turn some of the hardest moments of my life into something meaningful by helping others through theirs. Higher education is more than just a step toward a career for me. It is the pathway that will allow me to turn my experiences into purpose. It will give me the skills and knowledge I need to not only care for patients, but to truly understand them and advocate for them. My goal is to build a future where I can make a lasting impact, one patient at a time. Every surgery I’ve gone through has given me another chance, and pursuing higher education is how I plan to use those chances to help others keep theirs.

Adara Samuel 19 Chances The night before surgery always feels heavier than any other night. The air is still, the clock ticks louder, and I find myself memorizing everything, the color of my walls, the sound of my parents’ voices, the feeling of being home. Because when I have surgery, I never know if I’ll come back to it. Every time I leave, it feels like goodbye. I’ve had nineteen surgeries in my life, and each one carried the same fear that I might not wake up. Before every procedure, I lie on the table with bright lights above me, my heart racing as I try to hide how scared I am. As the anesthesia mask lowers, I whisper the same words I’ve said since I was little: “Now I lay me down to sleep, I pray the Lord my soul to keep. If I should die before I wake, I pray the Lord my soul to take.” And then everything goes dark. Waking up is never easy. There is pain, discomfort, and exhaustion, but also relief. Because pain means I’m still here. It means I survived. After my twelfth surgery, the hardest one, I remember opening my eyes and smiling despite everything. In that moment, I realized how fragile life is and how powerful it is to simply be alive. Over time, I stopped seeing surgery as an ending and started seeing it as a pause, like a semicolon in my story. Each scar I carry is proof of another chance, another beginning. These experiences taught me to appreciate the smallest things, laughter, sunlight, and even quiet moments. I’ve learned that every second matters because life can change so quickly. These moments are also why I want to become a pediatric nurse. I know what it feels like to be a child in a hospital bed, scared and unsure of what will happen next. I remember trying to be strong, even when I was terrified. No child should have to face that fear alone. I want to be the person who brings comfort into those moments. I want to ease their pain, calm their fears, and remind them that they are not alone. My experiences have given me empathy, strength, and a deep understanding of what patients truly need. Nineteen times I’ve been pulled under. Nineteen times I’ve opened my eyes again. And every single time, I am reminded that I have been given another chance. Now, I want to use those chances to help others keep theirs.