One of the major obstacles in my life was going through a divorce after having 2 kids and being married for 10 years. To go from a stay-at-home mother to solely providing for my 2 kids and self, uprooting and relocating to Chicago. To now entering the graduate program in nursing, this entire journey has been a quest for progression and an attempt to not continue to struggle to provide for my kids. To give them an example of perseverance to overcome obstacles and still succeed and reach your goals. I am currently pursuing the MSN-GE program at UIC. My plan after completing this program is to apply and complete the Midwifery program at UIC. After establishing myself firmly in the nursing field, I plan to work as a midwife and open a birthing center for women who plan to experience a safe and holistic birthing experience. I believe that the process of growing a kid is miraculous in and of itself and women can experience many difficulties during this time. So, having a place that they can unwind and receive excellent care would be a relief for pregnant women. I feel that in this day and time, the rate of maternal morbidity and fetal death rates for African American and Latina women are astronomical with the many advances and technics that are readily available. And opening a birthing center would be my way of doing my part to combat those rates. I also would like to be a nursing instructor at UIC to usher in the new student nurses. Things that energize me in the field is the fact that for many African and Latina women experience disparities in healthcare and I want to do my part to remedy or buffer that experience. Receiving this award would help financially with completing my degree. I had to take out a lot of loans for my undergraduate degree, and my funds are limited within the federal financial aid system. Receiving the scholarship would allow me to concentrate on my studies and alleviate some of the financial burden of attending nursing school. Having to work and go to school, juggle my 2 high school kids and bills is a lot and can be very distracting. Having financial support allows me to have more time to study and prepare myself for my new career. I would be so grateful to receive such additional support.

One of the major obstacles in my life was going through a divorce after having 2 kids and being married for 10 years. To go from a stay-at-home mother to solely providing for my 2 kids and self, uprooting and relocating to Chicago. To now entering the graduate program in nursing, this entire journey has been a quest for progression and an attempt to not continue to struggle to provide for my kids. To give them an example of perseverance to overcome obstacles and still succeed and reach your goals. I am currently pursuing the MSN-GE program at UIC. My plan after completing this program is to apply and complete the Midwifery program at UIC. After establishing myself firmly in the nursing field, I plan to work as a midwife and open a birthing center for women who plan to experience a safe and holistic birthing experience. I believe that the process of growing a kid is miraculous in and of itself and women can experience many difficulties during this time. So, having a place that they can unwind and receive excellent care would be a relief for pregnant women. I feel that in this day and time, the rate of maternal morbidity and fetal death rates for African American and Latina women are astronomical with the many advances and technics that are readily available. And opening a birthing center would be my way of doing my part to combat those rates. I also would like to be a nursing instructor at UIC to usher in the new student nurses. Things that energize me in the field is the fact that for many African and Latina women experience disparities in healthcare and I want to do my part to remedy or buffer that experience. Receiving this award would help financially with completing my degree. I had to take out a lot of loans for my undergraduate degree, and my funds are limited within the federal financial aid system. Receiving the scholarship would allow me to concentrate on my studies and alleviate some of the financial burden of attending nursing school. Having to work and go to school, juggle my 2 high school kids and bills is a lot and can be very distracting. Having financial support allows me to have more time to study and prepare myself for my new career. I would be so grateful to receive such additional support.

Growing up I've had the experience of seeing mental health struggles first hand through my aunt. I happen to be named after her and she is my mother's only sister. Myself and my siblings would go to live with her during the summers and some of the visits got cut short due to her being hospitalized for her Schizophrenia and Bi-Polar disorders. She would lash out and have episodes of paranoia, being found walking in the streets, swinging poles at cars and genuinely think that people were out to get her. Seeing how being hospitalized would change her and affect her afterwards shaped me so much that during college I majored in Psychology Pre-Med. I wanted to figure out and study disorders and how they were treated medically. This was initially my introduction in to the medical field. Well after some time and being in the hospital environment, I discovered my love for maternal and fetal health. The journey of pregnancy plays such a monumental role on families but particularly mothers. It not only changes them physically but mentally, socially and has effects on their personal dreams and careers. I have decided to focus my talents in the area of maternal health. I am currently pursuing the MSN-GE program at UIC. My plan after completing this program is to apply and complete the Midwifery program at UIC. After establishing myself firmly in the nursing field, I plan to work as a midwife and open a birthing center for women who plan to experience a safe and holistic birthing experience. I believe that the process of growing and birthing a child is miraculous in and of itself and women can experience many difficulties during this time. So, having a place that they can unwind and receive excellent care would be a relief for pregnant women. I feel that in this day and time, the rate of maternal morbidity and fetal death rates for African American and Latina women are astronomical with the many advances and technics that are readily available. And opening a birthing center would be my way of doing my part to combat those rates. The need for practitioners that have advanced skills and can somewhat deviate from the uniformity of standard practice to treat pregnancy before, during and after birth, I believe can make a drastic difference. This can also help to lower the maternal and fetal mortality rates. A rate that most professionals feel is avoidable and unfortunate. I strive to be one of those practitioners. And with the goal of opening a practice where I can focus on keeping mothers safe, peaceful and as stress-free as possible during and after their pregnancies s a start in the right direction. I also would like to be a nursing instructor to usher in the new student nurses. Things that energize me in the field is the fact that for many African and Latina women experience disparities in healthcare and I want to do my part to remedy or buffer that experience. Receiving this award would help financially with completing my degree. I had to take out a lot of loans for my undergraduate degree, and my funds are limited within the federal financial aid system. Receiving the scholarship would allow me to concentrate on my studies and alleviate some of the financial burden of attending nursing school. Having to work and go to school, juggle my 2 high school kids and bills is a lot and can be very distracting. Having financial support allows me to have more time to study and prepare myself for my new career. I would be so grateful to receive such additional support.

I am currently pursuing the MSN-GE program at UIC. My plan after completing this program is to apply and complete the Midwifery program at UIC. After establishing myself firmly in the nursing field, I plan to work as a midwife and open a birthing center for women who plan to experience a safe and holistic birthing experience. I believe that the process of growing and birthing a child is miraculous in and of itself and women can experience many difficulties during this time. So, having a place that they can unwind and receive excellent care would be a relief for pregnant women. I feel that in this day and time, the rate of maternal morbidity and fetal death rates for African American and Latina women are astronomical with the many advances and technics that are readily available. And opening a birthing center would be my way of doing my part to combat those rates. The need for practitioners that have advanced skills and can somewhat deviate from the uniformity of standard practice to treat pregnancy before, during and after birth, I believe can make a drastic difference. This can also help to lower the maternal and fetal mortality rates. A rate that most professionals feel is avoidable and unfortunate. I strive to be one of those practitioners. And with the goal of opening a practice where I can focus on keeping mothers safe, peaceful and as stress-free as possible during and after their pregnancies s a start in the right direction. I also would like to be a nursing instructor to help usher in the new student nurses. Things that energize me in the field is the fact that for many African and Latina women experience disparities in healthcare and I want to do my part to remedy or buffer that experience. Being able to reach back in areas where I know I've struggled, to help avoid someone else's struggle with the same material. Also, go to visit and mentor high schoolers who may be interested in the medical/nursing field and help guide their way through school. Planting the seed early with the next generation of nurses would be pivotal in adding to the shortage and demand of nurses. In my own experience, had I had someone to mentor and guide me through my journey to become a nurse midwife, maybe I wouldn't be starting in my mid-forties and with not so much school debt. Receiving this award would help financially with completing my degree. I had to take out a lot of loans for my undergraduate degree, and my funds are limited within the federal financial aid system. Receiving the scholarship would allow me to concentrate on my studies and alleviate some of the financial burden of attending nursing school. Having to work and go to school, juggle my 2 high school kids and bills is a lot and can be very distracting. Having financial support allows me to have more time to study and prepare myself for my new career. I would be so grateful to receive such additional support.

I am currently pursuing the MSN-GE program at UIC. My plan after completing this program is to apply and complete the Midwifery program at UIC. After establishing myself firmly in the nursing field, I plan to work as a midwife and open a birthing center for women who plan to experience a safe and holistic birthing experience. I believe that the process of growing and birthing a child is miraculous in and of itself and women can experience many difficulties during this time. So, having a place that they can unwind and receive excellent care would be a relief for pregnant women. I feel that in this day and time, the rate of maternal morbidity and fetal death rates for African American and Latina women are astronomical with the many advances and technics that are readily available. And opening a birthing center would be my way of doing my part to combat those rates. The need for practitioners that have advanced skills and can somewhat deviate from the uniformity of standard practice to treat pregnancy before, during and after birth, I believe can make a drastic difference. This can also help to lower the maternal and fetal mortality rates. A rate that most professionals feel is avoidable and unfortunate. I strive to be one of those practitioners. And with the goal of opening a practice where I can focus on keeping mothers safe, peaceful and as stress-free as possible during and after their pregnancies s a start in the right direction. I also would like to be a nursing instructor to help usher in the new student nurses. Things that energize me in the field is the fact that for many African and Latina women experience disparities in healthcare and I want to do my part to remedy or buffer that experience. Being able to reach back in areas where I know I've struggled, to help avoid someone else's struggle with the same material. Also, go to visit and mentor high schoolers who may be interested in the medical/nursing field and help guide their way through school. Planting the seed early with the next generation of nurses would be pivotal in adding to the shortage and demand of nurses. In my own experience, had I had someone to mentor and guide me through my journey to become a nurse midwife, maybe I wouldn't be starting in my mid-forties and with not so much school debt. Receiving this award would help financially with completing my degree. I had to take out a lot of loans for my undergraduate degree, and my funds are limited within the federal financial aid system. Receiving the scholarship would allow me to concentrate on my studies and alleviate some of the financial burden of attending nursing school. Having to work and go to school, juggle my 2 high school kids and bills is a lot and can be very distracting. Having financial support allows me to have more time to study and prepare myself for my new career. I would be so grateful to receive such additional support.

One of the major obstacles in my life was going through a divorce after having 2 kids and being married for 10 years. To go from a stay-at-home mother to solely providing for my 2 kids and self, uprooting and relocating to Chicago. To now entering the graduate program in nursing, this entire journey has been a quest for progression and an attempt to not continue to struggle to provide for my kids. To give them an example of perseverance to overcome obstacles and still succeed and reach your goals. While being pregnant with second child I had a mini stroke and since have been living with migraines that when severe look like I'm having another stroke. So I know firsthand the many obstacles and complications that happen before, during and after childbirth. I am currently pursuing the MSN-GE program at UIC. My plan after completing this program is to apply and complete the Midwifery program at UIC. After establishing myself firmly in the nursing field, I plan to work as a midwife and open a birthing center for women who plan to experience a safe and holistic birthing experience. I believe that the process of growing a kid is miraculous in and of itself and women can experience many difficulties during this time. So, having a place that they can unwind and receive excellent care would be a relief for pregnant women. I feel that in this day and time, the rate of maternal morbidity and fetal death rates for African American and Latina women are astronomical with the many advances and technics that are readily available. And opening a birthing center would be my way of doing my part to combat those rates. I also would like to be a nursing instructor at UIC to usher in the new student nurses. Things that energize me in the field is the fact that for many African and Latina women experience disparities in healthcare and I want to do my part to remedy or buffer that experience. Receiving this award would help financially with completing my degree. I had to take out a lot of loans for my undergraduate degree, and my funds are limited within the federal financial aid system. Receiving the scholarship would allow me to concentrate on my studies and alleviate some of the financial burden of attending nursing school. Having to work and go to school, juggle my 2 high school kids and bills is a lot and can be very distracting. Having financial support allows me to have more time to study and prepare myself for my new career. I would be so grateful to receive such additional support.

One of the major obstacles in my life was going through a divorce after having 2 kids and being married for 10 years. To go from a stay-at-home mother to solely providing for my 2 kids and self, uprooting and relocating to Chicago. To now entering the graduate program in nursing, this entire journey has been a quest for progression and an attempt to not continue to struggle to provide for my kids. To give them an example of perseverance to overcome obstacles and still succeed and reach your goals. While being pregnant with second child I had a mini stroke and since have been living with migraines that when severe look like I'm having another stroke. So I know firsthand the many obstacles and complications that happen before, during and after childbirth. I am currently pursuing the MSN-GE program at UIC. My plan after completing this program is to apply and complete the Midwifery program at UIC. After establishing myself firmly in the nursing field, I plan to work as a midwife and open a birthing center for women who plan to experience a safe and holistic birthing experience. I believe that the process of growing a kid is miraculous in and of itself and women can experience many difficulties during this time. So, having a place that they can unwind and receive excellent care would be a relief for pregnant women. I feel that in this day and time, the rate of maternal morbidity and fetal death rates for African American and Latina women are astronomical with the many advances and technics that are readily available. And opening a birthing center would be my way of doing my part to combat those rates. I also would like to be a nursing instructor at UIC to usher in the new student nurses. Things that energize me in the field is the fact that for many African and Latina women experience disparities in healthcare and I want to do my part to remedy or buffer that experience. Receiving this award would help financially with completing my degree. I had to take out a lot of loans for my undergraduate degree, and my funds are limited within the federal financial aid system. Receiving the scholarship would allow me to concentrate on my studies and alleviate some of the financial burden of attending nursing school. Having to work and go to school, juggle my 2 high school kids and bills is a lot and can be very distracting. Having financial support allows me to have more time to study and prepare myself for my new career. I would be so grateful to receive such additional support.

One of the major obstacles in my life was going through a divorce after having 2 kids and being married for 10 years. To go from a stay-at-home mother to solely providing for my 2 kids and self, uprooting and relocating to Chicago. To now entering the graduate program in nursing, this entire journey has been a quest for progression and an attempt to not continue to struggle to provide for my kids. To give them an example of perseverance to overcome obstacles and still succeed and reach your goals. While being pregnant with second child I had a mini stroke and since have been living with migraines that when severe look like I'm having another stroke. So I know firsthand the many obstacles and complications that happen before, during and after childbirth. I am currently pursuing the MSN-GE program at UIC. My plan after completing this program is to apply and complete the Midwifery program at UIC. After establishing myself firmly in the nursing field, I plan to work as a midwife and open a birthing center for women who plan to experience a safe and holistic birthing experience. I believe that the process of growing a kid is miraculous in and of itself and women can experience many difficulties during this time. So, having a place that they can unwind and receive excellent care would be a relief for pregnant women. I feel that in this day and time, the rate of maternal morbidity and fetal death rates for African American and Latina women are astronomical with the many advances and technics that are readily available. And opening a birthing center would be my way of doing my part to combat those rates. I also would like to be a nursing instructor at UIC to usher in the new student nurses. Things that energize me in the field is the fact that for many African and Latina women experience disparities in healthcare and I want to do my part to remedy or buffer that experience. Receiving this award would help financially with completing my degree. I had to take out a lot of loans for my undergraduate degree, and my funds are limited within the federal financial aid system. Receiving the scholarship would allow me to concentrate on my studies and alleviate some of the financial burden of attending nursing school. Having to work and go to school, juggle my 2 high school kids and bills is a lot and can be very distracting. Having financial support allows me to have more time to study and prepare myself for my new career. I would be so grateful to receive such additional support.

One of the major obstacles in my life was going through a divorce after having 2 kids and being married for 10 years. To go from a stay-at-home mother to solely providing for my 2 kids and self, uprooting and relocating to Chicago. To now entering the graduate program in nursing, this entire journey has been a quest for progression and an attempt to not continue to struggle to provide for my kids. To give them an example of perseverance to overcome obstacles and still succeed and reach your goals. While being pregnant with second child I had a mini stroke and since have been living with migraines that when severe look like I'm having another stroke. So I know firsthand the many obstacles and complications that happen before, during and after childbirth. I am currently pursuing the MSN-GE program at UIC. My plan after completing this program is to apply and complete the Midwifery program at UIC. After establishing myself firmly in the nursing field, I plan to work as a midwife and open a birthing center for women who plan to experience a safe and holistic birthing experience. I believe that the process of growing a kid is miraculous in and of itself and women can experience many difficulties during this time. So, having a place that they can unwind and receive excellent care would be a relief for pregnant women. I feel that in this day and time, the rate of maternal morbidity and fetal death rates for African American and Latina women are astronomical with the many advances and technics that are readily available. And opening a birthing center would be my way of doing my part to combat those rates. I also would like to be a nursing instructor at UIC to usher in the new student nurses. Things that energize me in the field is the fact that for many African and Latina women experience disparities in healthcare and I want to do my part to remedy or buffer that experience. Receiving this award would help financially with completing my degree. I had to take out a lot of loans for my undergraduate degree, and my funds are limited within the federal financial aid system. Receiving the scholarship would allow me to concentrate on my studies and alleviate some of the financial burden of attending nursing school. Having to work and go to school, juggle my 2 high school kids and bills is a lot and can be very distracting. Having financial support allows me to have more time to study and prepare myself for my new career. I would be so grateful to receive such additional support.

One of the major obstacles in my life was going through a divorce after having 2 kids and being married for 10 years. To go from a stay-at-home mother to solely providing for my 2 kids and self, uprooting and relocating to Chicago. To now entering the graduate program in nursing, this entire journey has been a quest for progression and an attempt to not continue to struggle to provide for my kids. To give them an example of perseverance to overcome obstacles and still succeed and reach your goals. While being pregnant with second child I had a mini stroke and since have been living with migraines that when severe look like I'm having another stroke. So I know firsthand the many obstacles and complications that happen before, during and after childbirth. I am currently pursuing the MSN-GE program at UIC. My plan after completing this program is to apply and complete the Midwifery program at UIC. After establishing myself firmly in the nursing field, I plan to work as a midwife and open a birthing center for women who plan to experience a safe and holistic birthing experience. I believe that the process of growing a kid is miraculous in and of itself and women can experience many difficulties during this time. So, having a place that they can unwind and receive excellent care would be a relief for pregnant women. I feel that in this day and time, the rate of maternal morbidity and fetal death rates for African American and Latina women are astronomical with the many advances and technics that are readily available. And opening a birthing center would be my way of doing my part to combat those rates. I also would like to be a nursing instructor at UIC to usher in the new student nurses. Things that energize me in the field is the fact that for many African and Latina women experience disparities in healthcare and I want to do my part to remedy or buffer that experience. Receiving this award would help financially with completing my degree. I had to take out a lot of loans for my undergraduate degree, and my funds are limited within the federal financial aid system. Receiving the scholarship would allow me to concentrate on my studies and alleviate some of the financial burden of attending nursing school. Having to work and go to school, juggle my 2 high school kids and bills is a lot and can be very distracting. Having financial support allows me to have more time to study and prepare myself for my new career. I would be so grateful to receive such additional support.

One of the major obstacles in my life was going through a divorce after having 2 kids and being married for 10 years. To go from a stay-at-home mother to solely providing for my 2 kids and self, uprooting and relocating to Chicago. To now entering the graduate program in nursing, this entire journey has been a quest for progression and an attempt to not continue to struggle to provide for my kids. To give them an example of perseverance to overcome obstacles and still succeed and reach your goals. While being pregnant with second child I had a mini stroke and since have been living with migraines that when severe look like I'm having another stroke. So I know firsthand the many obstacles and complications that happen before, during and after childbirth. I am currently pursuing the MSN-GE program at UIC. My plan after completing this program is to apply and complete the Midwifery program at UIC. After establishing myself firmly in the nursing field, I plan to work as a midwife and open a birthing center for women who plan to experience a safe and holistic birthing experience. I believe that the process of growing a kid is miraculous in and of itself and women can experience many difficulties during this time. So, having a place that they can unwind and receive excellent care would be a relief for pregnant women. I feel that in this day and time, the rate of maternal morbidity and fetal death rates for African American and Latina women are astronomical with the many advances and technics that are readily available. And opening a birthing center would be my way of doing my part to combat those rates. I also would like to be a nursing instructor at UIC to usher in the new student nurses. Things that energize me in the field is the fact that for many African and Latina women experience disparities in healthcare and I want to do my part to remedy or buffer that experience. Receiving this award would help financially with completing my degree. I had to take out a lot of loans for my undergraduate degree, and my funds are limited within the federal financial aid system. Receiving the scholarship would allow me to concentrate on my studies and alleviate some of the financial burden of attending nursing school. Having to work and go to school, juggle my 2 high school kids and bills is a lot and can be very distracting. Having financial support allows me to have more time to study and prepare myself for my new career. I would be so grateful to receive such additional support.

One of the major obstacles in my life was going through a divorce after having 2 kids and being married for 10 years. To go from a stay-at-home mother to solely providing for my 2 kids and self, uprooting and relocating to Chicago. To now entering the graduate program in nursing, this entire journey has been a quest for progression and an attempt to not continue to struggle to provide for my kids. To give them an example of perseverance to overcome obstacles and still succeed and reach your goals. While being pregnant with second child I had a mini stroke and since have been living with migraines that when severe look like I'm having another stroke. So I know firsthand the many obstacles and complications that happen before, during and after childbirth. I am currently pursuing the MSN-GE program at UIC. My plan after completing this program is to apply and complete the Midwifery program at UIC. After establishing myself firmly in the nursing field, I plan to work as a midwife and open a birthing center for women who plan to experience a safe and holistic birthing experience. I believe that the process of growing a kid is miraculous in and of itself and women can experience many difficulties during this time. So, having a place that they can unwind and receive excellent care would be a relief for pregnant women. I feel that in this day and time, the rate of maternal morbidity and fetal death rates for African American and Latina women are astronomical with the many advances and technics that are readily available. And opening a birthing center would be my way of doing my part to combat those rates. I also would like to be a nursing instructor at UIC to usher in the new student nurses. Things that energize me in the field is the fact that for many African and Latina women experience disparities in healthcare and I want to do my part to remedy or buffer that experience. Receiving this award would help financially with completing my degree. I had to take out a lot of loans for my undergraduate degree, and my funds are limited within the federal financial aid system. Receiving the scholarship would allow me to concentrate on my studies and alleviate some of the financial burden of attending nursing school. Having to work and go to school, juggle my 2 high school kids and bills is a lot and can be very distracting. Having financial support allows me to have more time to study and prepare myself for my new career. I would be so grateful to receive such additional support. Just having the life experience and courage to further my career and go back to school, enter a master's program after being out of school for 20 years and having to adjust to a electronic system of learning gives me enough grit to succeed in this time and space. I will fight to be here and continue to strive for better, I just need a little financial help to get there. So I pose a question for the committee, Will you be that help?

One of the major obstacles in my life was going through a divorce after having 2 kids and being married for 10 years. To go from a stay-at-home mother to solely providing for my 2 kids and self, uprooting and relocating to Chicago. To now entering the graduate program in nursing, this entire journey has been a quest for progression and an attempt to not continue to struggle to provide for my kids. To give them an example of perseverance to overcome obstacles and still succeed and reach your goals. While being pregnant with second child I had a mini stroke and since have been living with migraines that when severe look like I'm having another stroke. So I know firsthand the many obstacles and complications that happen before, during and after childbirth. I am currently pursuing the MSN-GE program at UIC. My plan after completing this program is to apply and complete the Midwifery program at UIC. After establishing myself firmly in the nursing field, I plan to work as a midwife and open a birthing center for women who plan to experience a safe and holistic birthing experience. I believe that the process of growing a kid is miraculous in and of itself and women can experience many difficulties during this time. So, having a place that they can unwind and receive excellent care would be a relief for pregnant women. I feel that in this day and time, the rate of maternal morbidity and fetal death rates for African American and Latina women are astronomical with the many advances and technics that are readily available. And opening a birthing center would be my way of doing my part to combat those rates. I also would like to be a nursing instructor at UIC to usher in the new student nurses. Things that energize me in the field is the fact that for many African and Latina women experience disparities in healthcare and I want to do my part to remedy or buffer that experience. Receiving this award would help financially with completing my degree. I had to take out a lot of loans for my undergraduate degree, and my funds are limited within the federal financial aid system. Receiving the scholarship would allow me to concentrate on my studies and alleviate some of the financial burden of attending nursing school. Having to work and go to school, juggle my 2 high school kids and bills is a lot and can be very distracting. Having financial support allows me to have more time to study and prepare myself for my new career. I would be so grateful to receive such additional support.

One of the major obstacles in my life was going through a divorce after having 2 kids and being married for 10 years. To go from a stay-at-home mother to solely providing for my 2 kids and self, uprooting and relocating to Chicago. To now entering the graduate program in nursing, this entire journey has been a quest for progression and an attempt to not continue to struggle to provide for my kids. To give them an example of perseverance to overcome obstacles and still succeed and reach your goals. I am currently pursuing the MSN-GE program at UIC. My plan after completing this program is to apply and complete the Midwifery program at UIC. After establishing myself firmly in the nursing field, I plan to work as a midwife and open a birthing center for women who plan to experience a safe and holistic birthing experience. I believe that the process of growing a kid is miraculous in and of itself and women can experience many difficulties during this time. Receiving this award would help financially with completing my degree. I had to take out a lot of loans for my undergraduate degree, and my funds are limited within the federal financial aid system. Receiving the scholarship would allow me to concentrate on my studies and alleviate some of the financial burden of attending nursing school. Having to work and go to school, juggle my 2 high school kids and bills is a lot and can be very distracting. Having financial support allows me to have more time to study and prepare myself for my new career. I would be so grateful to receive such additional support.

One of the major obstacles in my life was going through a divorce after having 2 kids and being married for 10 years. To go from a stay-at-home mother to solely providing for my 2 kids and self, uprooting and relocating to Chicago. To now entering the graduate program in nursing, this entire journey has been a quest for progression and an attempt to not continue to struggle to provide for my kids. To give them an example of perseverance to overcome obstacles and still succeed and reach your goals. While being pregnant with second child I had a mini stroke and since have been living with migraines that when severe look like I'm having another stroke. So I know firsthand the many obstacles and complications that happen before, during and after childbirth. I am currently pursuing the MSN-GE program at UIC. My plan after completing this program is to apply and complete the Midwifery program at UIC. After establishing myself firmly in the nursing field, I plan to work as a midwife and open a birthing center for women who plan to experience a safe and holistic birthing experience. I believe that the process of growing a kid is miraculous in and of itself and women can experience many difficulties during this time. So, having a place that they can unwind and receive excellent care would be a relief for pregnant women. I feel that in this day and time, the rate of maternal morbidity and fetal death rates for African American and Latina women are astronomical with the many advances and technics that are readily available. And opening a birthing center would be my way of doing my part to combat those rates. I also would like to be a nursing instructor at UIC to usher in the new student nurses. Things that energize me in the field is the fact that for many African and Latina women experience disparities in healthcare and I want to do my part to remedy or buffer that experience. Receiving this award would help financially with completing my degree. I had to take out a lot of loans for my undergraduate degree, and my funds are limited within the federal financial aid system. Receiving the scholarship would allow me to concentrate on my studies and alleviate some of the financial burden of attending nursing school. Having to work and go to school, juggle my 2 high school kids and bills is a lot and can be very distracting. Having financial support allows me to have more time to study and prepare myself for my new career. I would be so grateful to receive such additional support.

One of the major obstacles in my life was going through a divorce after having 2 kids and being married for 10 years. To go from a stay-at-home mother to solely providing for my 2 kids and self, uprooting and relocating to Chicago. To now entering the graduate program in nursing, this entire journey has been a quest for progression and an attempt to not continue to struggle to provide for my kids. To give them an example of perseverance to overcome obstacles and still succeed and reach your goals. While being pregnant with second child I had a mini stroke and since have been living with migraines that when severe look like I'm having another stroke. So I know firsthand the many obstacles and complications that happen before, during and after childbirth. I am currently pursuing the MSN-GE program at UIC. My plan after completing this program is to apply and complete the Midwifery program at UIC. After establishing myself firmly in the nursing field, I plan to work as a midwife and open a birthing center for women who plan to experience a safe and holistic birthing experience. I believe that the process of growing a kid is miraculous in and of itself and women can experience many difficulties during this time. So, having a place that they can unwind and receive excellent care would be a relief for pregnant women. I feel that in this day and time, the rate of maternal morbidity and fetal death rates for African American and Latina women are astronomical with the many advances and technics that are readily available. And opening a birthing center would be my way of doing my part to combat those rates. I also would like to be a nursing instructor at UIC to usher in the new student nurses. Things that energize me in the field is the fact that for many African and Latina women experience disparities in healthcare and I want to do my part to remedy or buffer that experience. Receiving this award would help financially with completing my degree. I had to take out a lot of loans for my undergraduate degree, and my funds are limited within the federal financial aid system. Receiving the scholarship would allow me to concentrate on my studies and alleviate some of the financial burden of attending nursing school. Having to work and go to school, juggle my 2 high school kids and bills is a lot and can be very distracting. Having financial support allows me to have more time to study and prepare myself for my new career. I would be so grateful to receive such additional support.

I am currently pursuing the MSN-GE program at UIC. My plan after completing this program is to apply and complete the Midwifery program at UIC. After establishing myself firmly in the nursing field, I plan to work as a midwife and open a birthing center for women who plan to experience a safe and holistic birthing experience. I believe that the process of growing and birthing a child is miraculous in and of itself and women can experience many difficulties during this time. So, having a place that they can unwind and receive excellent care would be a relief for pregnant women. I feel that in this day and time, the rate of maternal morbidity and fetal death rates for African American and Latina women are astronomical with the many advances and technics that are readily available. And opening a birthing center would be my way of doing my part to combat those rates. The need for practitioners that have advanced skills and can somewhat deviate from the uniformity of standard practice to treat pregnancy before, during and after birth, I believe can make a drastic difference. This can also help to lower the maternal and fetal mortality rates. A rate that most professionals feel is avoidable and unfortunate. I strive to be one of those practitioners. And with the goal of opening a practice where I can focus on keeping mothers safe, peaceful and as stress-free as possible during and after their pregnancies s a start in the right direction. I also would like to be a nursing instructor to help usher in the new student nurses. Things that energize me in the field is the fact that for many African and Latina women experience disparities in healthcare and I want to do my part to remedy or buffer that experience. Being able to reach back in areas where I know I've struggled, to help avoid someone else's struggle with the same material. Also, go to visit and mentor high schoolers who may be interested in the medical/nursing field and help guide their way through school. Planting the seed early with the next generation of nurses would be pivotal in adding to the shortage and demand of nurses. In my own experience, had I had someone to mentor and guide me through my journey to become a nurse midwife, maybe I wouldn't be starting in my mid-forties and with not so much school debt. Receiving this award would help financially with completing my degree. I had to take out a lot of loans for my undergraduate degree, and my funds are limited within the federal financial aid system. Receiving the scholarship would allow me to concentrate on my studies and alleviate some of the financial burden of attending nursing school. Having to work and go to school, juggle my 2 high school kids and bills is a lot and can be very distracting. Having financial support allows me to have more time to study and prepare myself for my new career. I would be so grateful to receive such additional support.

One of the major obstacles in my life was going through a divorce after having 2 kids and being married for 10 years. To go from a stay-at-home mother to solely providing for my 2 kids and self, uprooting and relocating to Chicago. To now entering the graduate program in nursing, this entire journey has been a quest for progression and an attempt to not continue to struggle to provide for my kids. To give them an example of perseverance to overcome obstacles and still succeed and reach your goals. While being pregnant with second child I had a mini stroke and since have been living with migraines that when severe look like I'm having another stroke. So I know firsthand the many obstacles and complications that happen before, during and after childbirth. I am currently pursuing the MSN-GE program at UIC. My plan after completing this program is to apply and complete the Midwifery program at UIC. After establishing myself firmly in the nursing field, I plan to work as a midwife and open a birthing center for women who plan to experience a safe and holistic birthing experience. I believe that the process of growing a kid is miraculous in and of itself and women can experience many difficulties during this time. So, having a place that they can unwind and receive excellent care would be a relief for pregnant women. I feel that in this day and time, the rate of maternal morbidity and fetal death rates for African American and Latina women are astronomical with the many advances and technics that are readily available. And opening a birthing center would be my way of doing my part to combat those rates. I also would like to be a nursing instructor at UIC to usher in the new student nurses. Things that energize me in the field is the fact that for many African and Latina women experience disparities in healthcare and I want to do my part to remedy or buffer that experience. Receiving this award would help financially with completing my degree. I had to take out a lot of loans for my undergraduate degree, and my funds are limited within the federal financial aid system. Receiving the scholarship would allow me to concentrate on my studies and alleviate some of the financial burden of attending nursing school. Having to work and go to school, juggle my 2 high school kids and bills is a lot and can be very distracting. Having financial support allows me to have more time to study and prepare myself for my new career. I would be so grateful to receive such additional support.

One of the major obstacles in my life was going through a divorce after having 2 kids and being married for 10 years. To go from a stay-at-home mother to solely providing for my 2 kids and self, uprooting and relocating to Chicago. To now entering the graduate program in nursing, this entire journey has been a quest for progression and an attempt to not continue to struggle to provide for my kids. To give them an example of perseverance to overcome obstacles and still succeed and reach your goals. I am currently pursuing the MSN-GE program at UIC. My plan after completing this program is to apply and complete the Midwifery program at UIC. After establishing myself firmly in the nursing field, I plan to work as a midwife and open a birthing center for women who plan to experience a safe and holistic birthing experience. I believe that the process of growing and birthing a child is miraculous in and of itself and women can experience many difficulties during this time. So, having a place that they can unwind and receive excellent care would be a relief for pregnant women. In this day and time, the rate of maternal morbidity and fetal death rates for African American and Latina women are astronomical with the many advances and technics that are readily available. And opening a birthing center would be my way of doing my part to combat those rates. The need for practitioners that have advanced skills and can somewhat deviate from the uniformity of standard practice to treat pregnancy before, during and after birth, I believe can make a drastic difference. This can also help to lower the maternal and fetal mortality rates. A rate that most professionals feel is avoidable and unfortunate. I strive to be one of those practitioners. And with the goal of opening a practice where I can focus on keeping mothers safe, peaceful and as stress-free as possible during and after their pregnancies s a start in the right direction. I also would like to be a nursing instructor to help usher in the new student nurses. Things that energize me in the field is the fact that for many African and Latina women experience disparities in healthcare and I want to do my part to remedy or buffer that experience. Being able to reach back in areas where I know I've struggled, to help avoid someone else's struggle with the same material. Also, go to visit and mentor high schoolers who may be interested in the medical/nursing field and help guide their way through school. Planting the seed early with the next generation of nurses would be pivotal in adding to the shortage and demand of nurses. In my own experience, had I had someone to mentor and guide me through my journey to become a nurse midwife, maybe I wouldn't be starting in my mid-forties and with not so much school debt. Receiving this award would help financially with completing my degree. I had to take out a lot of loans for my undergraduate degree, and my funds are limited within the federal financial aid system. Receiving the scholarship would allow me to concentrate on my studies and alleviate some of the financial burden of attending nursing school. Having to work and go to school, juggle my 2 high school kids and bills is a lot and can be very distracting. Having financial support allows me to have more time to study and prepare myself for my new career. I would be so grateful to receive such additional support.

I am currently pursuing the MSN-GE program at UIC. My plan after completing this program is to apply and complete the Midwifery program at UIC. After establishing myself firmly in the nursing field, I plan to work as a midwife and open a birthing center for women who plan to experience a safe and holistic birthing experience. I believe that the process of growing and birthing a child is miraculous in and of itself and women can experience many difficulties during this time. So, having a place that they can unwind and receive excellent care would be a relief for pregnant women. I feel that in this day and time, the rate of maternal morbidity and fetal death rates for African American and Latina women are astronomical with the many advances and technics that are readily available. And opening a birthing center would be my way of doing my part to combat those rates. The need for practitioners that have advanced skills and can somewhat deviate from the uniformity of standard practice to treat pregnancy before, during and after birth, I believe can make a drastic difference. This can also help to lower the maternal and fetal mortality rates. A rate that most professionals feel is avoidable and unfortunate. I strive to be one of those practitioners. And with the goal of opening a practice where I can focus on keeping mothers safe, peaceful and as stress-free as possible during and after their pregnancies s a start in the right direction. I also would like to be a nursing instructor to help usher in the new student nurses. Things that energize me in the field is the fact that for many African and Latina women experience disparities in healthcare and I want to do my part to remedy or buffer that experience. Being able to reach back in areas where I know I've struggled, to help avoid someone else's struggle with the same material. Also, go to visit and mentor high schoolers who may be interested in the medical/nursing field and help guide their way through school. Planting the seed early with the next generation of nurses would be pivotal in adding to the shortage and demand of nurses. In my own experience, had I had someone to mentor and guide me through my journey to become a nurse midwife, maybe I wouldn't be starting in my mid-forties and with not so much school debt. Receiving this award would help financially with completing my degree. I had to take out a lot of loans for my undergraduate degree, and my funds are limited within the federal financial aid system. Receiving the scholarship would allow me to concentrate on my studies and alleviate some of the financial burden of attending nursing school. Having to work and go to school, juggle my 2 high school kids and bills is a lot and can be very distracting. Having financial support allows me to have more time to study and prepare myself for my new career. I would be so grateful to receive such additional support.

I am currently pursuing the MSN-GE program at UIC. My plan after completing this program is to apply and complete the Midwifery program at UIC. After establishing myself firmly in the nursing field, I plan to work as a midwife and open a birthing center for women who plan to experience a safe and holistic birthing experience. I believe that the process of growing and birthing a child is miraculous in and of itself and women can experience many difficulties during this time. So, having a place that they can unwind and receive excellent care would be a relief for pregnant women. I feel that in this day and time, the rate of maternal morbidity and fetal death rates for African American and Latina women are astronomical with the many advances and technics that are readily available. And opening a birthing center would be my way of doing my part to combat those rates. The need for practitioners that have advanced skills and can somewhat deviate from the uniformity of standard practice to treat pregnancy before, during and after birth, I believe can make a drastic difference. This can also help to lower the maternal and fetal mortality rates. A rate that most professionals feel is avoidable and unfortunate. I strive to be one of those practitioners. And with the goal of opening a practice where I can focus on keeping mothers safe, peaceful and as stress-free as possible during and after their pregnancies s a start in the right direction. I also would like to be a nursing instructor to help usher in the new student nurses. Things that energize me in the field is the fact that for many African and Latina women experience disparities in healthcare and I want to do my part to remedy or buffer that experience. Being able to reach back in areas where I know I've struggled, to help avoid someone else's struggle with the same material. Also, go to visit and mentor high schoolers who may be interested in the medical/nursing field and help guide their way through school. Planting the seed early with the next generation of nurses would be pivotal in adding to the shortage and demand of nurses. In my own experience, had I had someone to mentor and guide me through my journey to become a nurse midwife, maybe I wouldn't be starting in my mid-forties and with not so much school debt. Receiving this award would help financially with completing my degree. I had to take out a lot of loans for my undergraduate degree, and my funds are limited within the federal financial aid system. Receiving the scholarship would allow me to concentrate on my studies and alleviate some of the financial burden of attending nursing school. Having to work and go to school, juggle my 2 high school kids and bills is a lot and can be very distracting. Having financial support allows me to have more time to study and prepare myself for my new career. I would be so grateful to receive such additional support.

I am currently pursuing the MSN-GE program at UIC. My plan after completing this program is to apply and complete the Midwifery program at UIC. After establishing myself firmly in the nursing field, I plan to work as a midwife and open a birthing center for women who plan to experience a safe and holistic birthing experience. I believe that the process of growing and birthing a child is miraculous in and of itself and women can experience many difficulties during this time. So, having a place that they can unwind and receive excellent care would be a relief for pregnant women. I feel that in this day and time, the rate of maternal morbidity and fetal death rates for African American and Latina women are astronomical with the many advances and technics that are readily available. And opening a birthing center would be my way of doing my part to combat those rates. The need for practitioners that have advanced skills and can somewhat deviate from the uniformity of standard practice to treat pregnancy before, during and after birth, I believe can make a drastic difference. This can also help to lower the maternal and fetal mortality rates. A rate that most professionals feel is avoidable and unfortunate. I strive to be one of those practitioners. And with the goal of opening a practice where I can focus on keeping mothers safe, peaceful and as stress-free as possible during and after their pregnancies s a start in the right direction. I also would like to be a nursing instructor to help usher in the new student nurses. Things that energize me in the field is the fact that for many African and Latina women experience disparities in healthcare and I want to do my part to remedy or buffer that experience. Being able to reach back in areas where I know I've struggled, to help avoid someone else's struggle with the same material. Also, go to visit and mentor high schoolers who may be interested in the medical/nursing field and help guide their way through school. Planting the seed early with the next generation of nurses would be pivotal in adding to the shortage and demand of nurses. In my own experience, had I had someone to mentor and guide me through my journey to become a nurse midwife, maybe I wouldn't be starting in my mid-forties and with not so much school debt. Receiving this award would help financially with completing my degree. I had to take out a lot of loans for my undergraduate degree, and my funds are limited within the federal financial aid system. Receiving the scholarship would allow me to concentrate on my studies and alleviate some of the financial burden of attending nursing school. Having to work and go to school, juggle my 2 high school kids and bills is a lot and can be very distracting. Having financial support allows me to have more time to study and prepare myself for my new career. I would be so grateful to receive such additional support.

I am currently pursuing the MSN-GE program at UIC. My plan after completing this program is to apply and complete the Midwifery program at UIC. After establishing myself firmly in the nursing field, I plan to work as a midwife and open a birthing center for women who plan to experience a safe and holistic birthing experience. I believe that the process of growing and birthing a child is miraculous in and of itself and women can experience many difficulties during this time. So, having a place that they can unwind and receive excellent care would be a relief for pregnant women. I feel that in this day and time, the rate of maternal morbidity and fetal death rates for African American and Latina women are astronomical with the many advances and technics that are readily available. And opening a birthing center would be my way of doing my part to combat those rates. The need for practitioners that have advanced skills and can somewhat deviate from the uniformity of standard practice to treat pregnancy before, during and after birth, I believe can make a drastic difference. This can also help to lower the maternal and fetal mortality rates. A rate that most professionals feel is avoidable and unfortunate. I strive to be one of those practitioners. And with the goal of opening a practice where I can focus on keeping mothers safe, peaceful and as stress-free as possible during and after their pregnancies s a start in the right direction. I also would like to be a nursing instructor to usher in the new student nurses. Things that energize me in the field is the fact that for many African and Latina women experience disparities in healthcare and I want to do my part to remedy or buffer that experience. Receiving this award would help financially with completing my degree. I had to take out a lot of loans for my undergraduate degree, and my funds are limited within the federal financial aid system. Receiving the scholarship would allow me to concentrate on my studies and alleviate some of the financial burden of attending nursing school. Having to work and go to school, juggle my 2 high school kids and bills is a lot and can be very distracting. Having financial support allows me to have more time to study and prepare myself for my new career. I would be so grateful to receive such additional support.

I am currently pursuing the MSN-GE program at UIC. My plan after completing this program is to apply and complete the Midwifery program at UIC. After establishing myself firmly in the nursing field, I plan to work as a midwife and open a birthing center for women who plan to experience a safe and holistic birthing experience. I believe that the process of growing and birthing a child is miraculous in and of itself and women can experience many difficulties during this time. So, having a place that they can unwind and receive excellent care would be a relief for pregnant women. I feel that in this day and time, the rate of maternal morbidity and fetal death rates for African American and Latina women are astronomical with the many advances and technics that are readily available. And opening a birthing center would be my way of doing my part to combat those rates. The need for practitioners that have advanced skills and can somewhat deviate from the uniformity of standard practice to treat pregnancy before, during and after birth, I believe can make a drastic difference. This can also help to lower the maternal and fetal mortality rates. A rate that most professionals feel is avoidable and unfortunate. I strive to be one of those practitioners. And with the goal of opening a practice where I can focus on keeping mothers safe, peaceful and as stress-free as possible during and after their pregnancies s a start in the right direction. I also would like to be a nursing instructor to usher in the new student nurses. Things that energize me in the field is the fact that for many African and Latina women experience disparities in healthcare and I want to do my part to remedy or buffer that experience. Receiving this award would help financially with completing my degree. I had to take out a lot of loans for my undergraduate degree, and my funds are limited within the federal financial aid system. Receiving the scholarship would allow me to concentrate on my studies and alleviate some of the financial burden of attending nursing school. Having to work and go to school, juggle my 2 high school kids and bills is a lot and can be very distracting. Having financial support allows me to have more time to study and prepare myself for my new career. I would be so grateful to receive such additional support.

I am currently pursuing the MSN-GE program at UIC. My plan after completing this program is to apply and complete the Midwifery program at UIC. After establishing myself firmly in the nursing field, I plan to work as a midwife and open a birthing center for women who plan to experience a safe and holistic birthing experience. I believe that the process of growing and birthing a child is miraculous in and of itself and women can experience many difficulties during this time. So, having a place that they can unwind and receive excellent care would be a relief for pregnant women. I feel that in this day and time, the rate of maternal morbidity and fetal death rates for African American and Latina women are astronomical with the many advances and technics that are readily available. And opening a birthing center would be my way of doing my part to combat those rates. The need for practitioners that have advanced skills and can somewhat deviate from the uniformity of standard practice to treat pregnancy before, during and after birth, I believe can make a drastic difference. This can also help to lower the maternal and fetal mortality rates. A rate that most professionals feel is avoidable and unfortunate. I strive to be one of those practitioners. And with the goal of opening a practice where I can focus on keeping mothers safe, peaceful and as stress-free as possible during and after their pregnancies s a start in the right direction. I also would like to be a nursing instructor to usher in the new student nurses. Things that energize me in the field is the fact that for many African and Latina women experience disparities in healthcare and I want to do my part to remedy or buffer that experience. Receiving this award would help financially with completing my degree. I had to take out a lot of loans for my undergraduate degree, and my funds are limited within the federal financial aid system. Receiving the scholarship would allow me to concentrate on my studies and alleviate some of the financial burden of attending nursing school. Having to work and go to school, juggle my 2 high school kids and bills is a lot and can be very distracting. Having financial support allows me to have more time to study and prepare myself for my new career. I would be so grateful to receive such additional support.

I am currently pursuing the MSN-GE program at UIC. My plan after completing this program is to apply and complete the Midwifery program at UIC. After establishing myself firmly in the nursing field, I plan to work as a midwife and open a birthing center for women who plan to experience a safe and holistic birthing experience. I believe that the process of growing and birthing a child is miraculous in and of itself and women can experience many difficulties during this time. So, having a place that they can unwind and receive excellent care would be a relief for pregnant women. I feel that in this day and time, the rate of maternal morbidity and fetal death rates for African American and Latina women are astronomical with the many advances and technics that are readily available. And opening a birthing center would be my way of doing my part to combat those rates. The need for practitioners that have advanced skills and can somewhat deviate from the uniformity of standard practice to treat pregnancy before, during and after birth, I believe can make a drastic difference. This can also help to lower the maternal and fetal mortality rates. A rate that most professionals feel is avoidable and unfortunate. I strive to be one of those practitioners. And with the goal of opening a practice where I can focus on keeping mothers safe, peaceful and as stress-free as possible during and after their pregnancies s a start in the right direction. I also would like to be a nursing instructor to usher in the new student nurses. Things that energize me in the field is the fact that for many African and Latina women experience disparities in healthcare and I want to do my part to remedy or buffer that experience. Receiving this award would help financially with completing my degree. I had to take out a lot of loans for my undergraduate degree, and my funds are limited within the federal financial aid system. Receiving the scholarship would allow me to concentrate on my studies and alleviate some of the financial burden of attending nursing school. Having to work and go to school, juggle my 2 high school kids and bills is a lot and can be very distracting. Having financial support allows me to have more time to study and prepare myself for my new career. I would be so grateful to receive such additional support.

I am currently pursuing the MSN-GE program at UIC. My plan after completing this program is to apply and complete the Midwifery program at UIC. After establishing myself firmly in the nursing field, I plan to work as a midwife and open a birthing center for women who plan to experience a safe and holistic birthing experience. I believe that the process of growing and birthing a child is miraculous in and of itself and women can experience many difficulties during this time. So, having a place that they can unwind and receive excellent care would be a relief for pregnant women. I feel that in this day and time, the rate of maternal morbidity and fetal death rates for African American and Latina women are astronomical with the many advances and technics that are readily available. And opening a birthing center would be my way of doing my part to combat those rates. The need for practitioners that have advanced skills and can somewhat deviate from the uniformity of standard practice to treat pregnancy before, during and after birth, I believe can make a drastic difference. This can also help to lower the maternal and fetal mortality rates. A rate that most professionals feel is avoidable and unfortunate. I strive to be one of those practitioners. And with the goal of opening a practice where I can focus on keeping mothers safe, peaceful and as stress-free as possible during and after their pregnancies s a start in the right direction. I also would like to be a nursing instructor to usher in the new student nurses. Things that energize me in the field is the fact that for many African and Latina women experience disparities in healthcare and I want to do my part to remedy or buffer that experience. Receiving this award would help financially with completing my degree. I had to take out a lot of loans for my undergraduate degree, and my funds are limited within the federal financial aid system. Receiving the scholarship would allow me to concentrate on my studies and alleviate some of the financial burden of attending nursing school. Having to work and go to school, juggle my 2 high school kids and bills is a lot and can be very distracting. Having financial support allows me to have more time to study and prepare myself for my new career. I would be so grateful to receive such additional support.