**The Impact of Alzheimer's Disease on My Family and What I Have Learned** Alzheimer's disease, a progressive neurodegenerative disorder, has had a profound impact on my family, shaping our lives in ways we never anticipated. Watching a loved one slowly lose their memory, cognitive abilities, and sense of self is an emotional journey marked by frustration, grief, and sometimes even anger. My experience with Alzheimer's began when my grandmother was diagnosed, and over the years, I have learned much about the disease, resilience, and the importance of support networks. In the early stages, my grandmother showed subtle signs of forgetfulness. She would misplace keys, struggle with finding the right words, or repeat herself in conversations. At first, these signs were dismissed as part of aging, but as time passed, her condition worsened. She could no longer recall the names of close family members, forget how to cook her favorite recipes, and became disoriented even in familiar places. The loss of her identity was heartbreaking, as the woman who once radiated strength and warmth was no longer the same. The impact on our family was significant. The emotional toll of watching a loved one fade away from memory loss created tension, especially among my parents, who took on the primary caregiving responsibilities. My father struggled with balancing his work life while ensuring my grandmother had the care she needed, and my mother became the emotional anchor for both my grandmother and the rest of the family. The financial strain of caregiving, coupled with the physical and mental exhaustion, created a sense of helplessness and stress. As my grandmother's condition progressed, our family had to make difficult decisions regarding her care. We enlisted the help of professional caregivers, and eventually, she moved into a memory care facility. Though this was an emotional decision, it was necessary for her safety and well-being. This experience taught me that dementia-related illnesses often require collective effort and understanding. Alzheimer's is not just a personal challenge for the individual diagnosed; it becomes a communal one, requiring caregivers, family members, and even communities to step up and provide support. Through this experience, I have learned several key lessons. First, the importance of patience cannot be overstated. Alzheimer's disease strips away the ability to communicate and often leads to behaviors that can be confusing or frustrating. Understanding that these actions are not intentional but are a symptom of the disease has allowed me to maintain a sense of empathy. Second, I have learned the value of self-care for caregivers. Caregiving can be overwhelming, and it's crucial for those who care for loved ones to take time for themselves, emotionally and physically. Lastly, I’ve learned that while Alzheimer's may take away a person’s memories, it does not erase the love and bonds we share. Even in the final stages of the disease, we were able to connect with my grandmother through simple gestures like holding her hand or playing her favorite music. In conclusion, Alzheimer's disease has profoundly affected my family, but it has also taught me lessons about empathy, resilience, and the importance of community. While the journey is filled with challenges, the support of family and friends, along with a deep understanding of the disease, has made it a journey of love and growth.

What inspired me to continue my education is my deep desire to create a better future for my family and myself. As a mother, I want to set a strong example for my daughter, showing her that hard work, dedication, and perseverance are key to achieving success. I’ve always believed that education is the gateway to opportunities, and I want to equip myself with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in a meaningful career, particularly in the healthcare field. Nursing, specifically, stood out to me because it would allow me to combine my passion for helping others with my interest in science and healthcare, making a direct and positive impact on people’s lives. However, the journey hasn’t been easy. One of the biggest obstacles I’ve faced is the challenge of balancing the demands of motherhood with the rigor of academics. Juggling coursework, clinical hours, exams, and taking care of my daughter has been difficult at times, especially when my responsibilities at home require my immediate attention. There are moments when the pressure feels overwhelming, but these obstacles have taught me to be resilient and resourceful. They’ve also pushed me to develop strong time-management skills. I’ve learned to prioritize my tasks effectively, break down complex assignments into smaller, manageable pieces, and stay focused on the bigger picture. These challenges, while difficult, have strengthened my commitment to my goals and have made me more determined to succeed. Balancing my roles as both a student and a mother requires careful planning, flexibility, and an organized mindset. I make it a point to set clear, realistic goals each week, ensuring I am allocating enough time for studying and coursework while also being fully present for my daughter. I’ve learned to adapt when unexpected situations arise and remain calm under pressure. Time management is key in balancing both worlds, and it is something I have become much better at over time. My support system, which includes my family, friends, and even classmates, has been a huge asset in this journey. They help me with childcare, provide encouragement when things get tough, and remind me of the bigger picture when I feel overwhelmed. Ultimately, I continue my education because I am committed to bettering myself and making a difference in the world. Every challenge I face in my journey only motivates me to work harder and reminds me of why I am pursuing a career in nursing. I want to show my daughter that with dedication and hard work, anything is possible. I believe that through perseverance, I can overcome any obstacle, and ultimately achieve my goals, making a lasting impact both in my family’s life and the lives of the patients I will care for.

I am a passionate, determined individual who is committed to making a positive impact on the world, particularly through a career in nursing. My life has been shaped by a deep desire to help others, a strong work ethic, and the belief that compassionate care can change lives. From a young age, I have always been driven by the idea that helping others—especially in times of vulnerability—can make a lasting difference, which led me to pursue nursing as a career. The experience of becoming a mother greatly influenced my decision to enter the healthcare field. It deepened my understanding of the importance of not only physical care but also emotional support. I realized that being a nurse isn’t just about administering treatments—it’s about being there for people in their most vulnerable moments, providing not just medical care but empathy, comfort, and reassurance. I’ve seen firsthand how nurses can change the trajectory of a patient’s experience through kindness, attention, and emotional support, and I want to be that kind of presence for others. My motherly instinct to care, nurture, and guide has motivated me to work towards a profession where I can make a meaningful difference in the lives of others, particularly children and families. In my career as a nurse, I plan to make a positive impact by combining both my scientific knowledge and compassion. Nursing allows me to blend my love for healthcare with my desire to connect with people, which I believe is crucial in providing effective care. I hope to work in pediatric nursing or maternal health, where I can offer support and care during critical times in patients’ lives. In these areas, I can offer not only expertise but also comfort to families as they navigate challenging experiences. My vision is to be the kind of nurse who not only excels in providing medical care but also fosters hope and positivity in those I care for. I want patients and their families to feel heard, respected, and supported in their health journey. By combining clinical expertise with genuine empathy, I hope to create an environment where patients feel empowered and confident in their care. Advocating for them when they are unable to speak for themselves and ensuring adequate care at all times. Ultimately, I want to make a lasting difference in the lives of those I serve, positively impacting families and communities one patient at a time.

I strive to exemplify a spirit of excellence in my everyday life by consistently pushing myself to achieve my goals and hold myself to the highest standards, both personally and professionally. Whether it's through my dedication to my education, my career, or my role as a mother, I approach everything with a mindset of growth, integrity, and a commitment to doing my best. For me, excellence is not about being perfect but about continually striving to improve and always giving my best effort. I make a conscious effort to stay focused, disciplined, and proactive, knowing that each step I take brings me closer to my goals. In my educational journey, I maintain a high standard of excellence by prioritizing my studies, managing my time effectively, and continuously seeking opportunities to grow and learn. I believe that striving for excellence in my education will not only help me succeed but also prepare me to make the greatest impact in my future nursing career. Whether it's completing assignments ahead of time, seeking additional learning opportunities, or collaborating with my peers, I aim to be a model of dedication and hard work for my daughter and those around me. In addition to striving for excellence in my personal life, I make it a priority to give back to my community. I believe that giving back is an essential part of creating a positive, supportive environment where everyone can thrive. I actively volunteer in various local initiatives, including supporting local food banks, organizing community events, and helping out at shelters. I also try to help others through mentorship, offering guidance to young women in my community who are pursuing their educational or career goals. I understand the challenges that come with balancing family, education, and work, and I try to be a source of encouragement and inspiration for others who are striving for success. Furthermore, as a future nurse, I plan to continue giving back by not only providing exceptional care but also by educating and advocating for those who may not have the resources or knowledge to navigate the healthcare system effectively. I want to empower patients and their families with the information they need to make informed decisions about their health. Ultimately, I believe that excellence isn’t just about personal success; it’s about using your skills, time, and energy to help others and make a positive difference in the world. Thank you.

I am a passionate, determined individual who is committed to making a positive impact on the world, particularly through a career in nursing. My life has been shaped by a deep desire to help others, a strong work ethic, and the belief that compassionate care can change lives. From a young age, I have always been driven by the idea that helping others—especially in times of vulnerability—can make a lasting difference, which led me to pursue nursing as a career. The experience of becoming a mother greatly influenced my decision to enter the healthcare field. It deepened my understanding of the importance of not only physical care but also emotional support. I realized that being a nurse isn’t just about administering treatments—it’s about being there for people in their most vulnerable moments, providing not just medical care but empathy, comfort, and reassurance. I’ve seen firsthand how nurses can change the trajectory of a patient’s experience through kindness, attention, and emotional support, and I want to be that kind of presence for others. My motherly instinct to care, nurture, and guide has motivated me to work towards a profession where I can make a meaningful difference in the lives of others, particularly children and families. In my career as a nurse, I plan to make a positive impact by combining both my scientific knowledge and compassion. Nursing allows me to blend my love for healthcare with my desire to connect with people, which I believe is crucial in providing effective care. I hope to work in pediatric nursing or maternal health, where I can offer support and care during critical times in patients’ lives. In these areas, I can offer not only expertise but also comfort to families as they navigate challenging experiences. My vision is to be the kind of nurse who not only excels in providing medical care but also fosters hope and positivity in those I care for. I want patients and their families to feel heard, respected, and supported in their health journey. By combining clinical expertise with genuine empathy, I hope to create an environment where patients feel empowered and confident in their care. Advocating for them on my end and ensuring their needs are always met when they are under my car. Ultimately, I want to make a lasting difference in the lives of those I serve, positively impacting families and communities one patient at a time.

Although my primary focus is on pursuing a nursing career, I recognize that math and science are integral to the field of healthcare. From understanding the human body’s complex systems to accurately administering medications and treatments, the application of both science and math is essential in nursing practice. My interest in science has shaped my educational journey, and it continues to fuel my desire to improve the health and well-being of others. I plan to contribute to the field of science and healthcare by using my scientific knowledge to provide high-quality patient care and to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those I serve. Growing up, I was always curious about how things worked. I was drawn to science and math because they provided a logical and structured way to understand the world around me. In high school, I took advanced courses in biology, chemistry, and physics, which deepened my interest in the human body and the intricacies of healthcare. I realized that a strong foundation in science was not only essential for understanding health conditions and treatments but also for critical thinking and decision-making in healthcare settings. These subjects provided me with the tools needed to analyze problems and find solutions—skills I’ll continue to use as a nurse. As a future nurse, I see science as the backbone of everything I do. I will apply scientific principles to assess patient conditions, interpret lab results, and use medical technology effectively. The ability to understand and apply evidence-based practices is crucial for providing safe and effective care. Additionally, my knowledge of science will allow me to educate patients and their families about their health, making complex medical information more accessible and understandable. This skill is particularly important in nursing, where clear communication is essential in helping patients make informed decisions about their care. Furthermore, I plan to contribute to the broader field of science by staying up to date with the latest research and advancements in healthcare. By continually learning and integrating new scientific findings, I can advocate for improved practices, better patient outcomes, and more efficient treatments. I am excited to be part of a healthcare community where science, compassion, and teamwork intersect to enhance patient care. Ultimately, while nursing is my passion, I believe that science will always be at the core of my practice. I hope to contribute to healthcare by applying scientific knowledge to provide compassionate, evidence-based care, and by fostering a deeper understanding of the human body and health in those I serve.

I believe I am uniquely deserving of this award because of the perseverance, resilience, and determination I have demonstrated in overcoming personal challenges to pursue my dreams. As a mother, I have had to balance family responsibilities with my education, and this has only fueled my commitment to succeed. Every day, I am motivated not only by my desire to build a better future for myself but, more importantly, to set an example for my daughter. I want her to see that hard work, dedication, and passion for one’s goals can lead to meaningful change, no matter the obstacles in life. My “why” for pursuing a higher education is rooted in a deep desire to make a positive impact on others and to create a life of purpose. As someone who has always felt drawn to helping others, I realized that a career in healthcare, particularly nursing, would allow me to combine my passion for caring for people with the opportunity to make a tangible difference. Becoming a nurse means being in a position to not only provide medical care but also offer emotional support and guidance during some of the most difficult moments in a person’s life. This is the kind of work that motivates me to continue my education, even when things get challenging. Throughout my journey, I have learned that the pursuit of higher education is not just about acquiring knowledge; it is about personal growth, developing resilience, and embracing the opportunity to positively influence the lives of others. For me, higher education represents the foundation for achieving my goals—both for my family and for my future as a healthcare provider. I am committed to continuing to work hard, maintain focus, and push through any obstacles in order to achieve my dreams. I am passionate about using my education and experiences to help others. I believe my journey reflects the qualities of dedication, strength, and empathy that will make me an excellent nurse. I am deeply committed to both my own personal growth and the opportunity to help others heal, and that is why I believe I am deserving of this award.

I want to pursue a degree in nursing because I have always had a deep desire to help others and make a positive, lasting impact on their lives. Nursing provides a unique opportunity to combine my passion for healthcare with my drive to support others during their most vulnerable moments. I am drawn to nursing because it offers not only the ability to treat and heal physically but also the chance to provide emotional and mental support to patients and their families. I believe the role of a nurse goes beyond medical procedures—it’s about offering compassion, comfort, and care that can make a world of difference during a difficult time. The decision to pursue nursing came after years of reflection on my own experiences as well as watching those I care about face health challenges. The impact that compassionate healthcare professionals had on my family members solidified my decision to enter this field. Nurses are often the ones who form close relationships with patients and families, offering the kind of care that truly helps individuals heal and feel valued. I want to be that person for others, someone who provides not just the technical skills needed for recovery, but also the human connection that helps ease anxiety, fear, and stress. In addition, nursing offers endless opportunities for growth and learning. The healthcare field is constantly evolving, and nursing offers the flexibility to specialize in various areas, whether it’s pediatrics, emergency care, or mental health nursing. I’m especially drawn to pediatrics, as I have always been passionate about working with children and their families. I want to be a nurse who can offer support to children when they are ill, as well as to their families, who may be feeling anxious and overwhelmed. I’m excited about the prospect of making a difference in the lives of children by providing both medical care and emotional support during challenging times. As a nurse, I hope to contribute to my community by not only providing high-quality care but also by serving as a source of education and advocacy. I want to educate patients and their families on health practices, wellness, and preventive care, helping them make informed decisions about their health. I also hope to contribute by being an active advocate for those who may not have access to adequate healthcare or who face barriers to proper care. I want to help bridge those gaps, ensuring that every patient I care for receives the support they deserve, regardless of their background or circumstances. Ultimately, my goal is to make a positive difference in my community by providing compassionate, patient-centered care and offering a voice for those who need it most. By pursuing a degree in nursing, I hope to help people live healthier lives, advocate for their well-being, and provide them with the emotional and medical support they need to navigate their health journeys.

I am currently pursuing a nursing degree, and my educational journey has been shaped by determination, personal growth, and a deep commitment to improving the lives of others. I didn’t always know that nursing was my calling, but the path I’ve taken to get here has been rewarding and filled with valuable lessons. Initially, I started my higher education journey with a different career goal in mind. After high school, I enrolled in a program in the beauty and cosmetology field, and I quickly became a licensed cosmetologist. For a few years, I worked in the beauty industry, which I enjoyed. While I was able to help people feel good about themselves through hair and beauty services, I realized that I wanted to make a more significant, direct impact on people’s lives—particularly when they were facing challenges and adversity. The transition to nursing came after I became a mother. Experiencing my own health care journey during pregnancy and the early years of motherhood gave me a new perspective on the importance of healthcare professionals, especially nurses. The nurses who took care of me during my pregnancies, as well as those who supported me through other health challenges, had a profound impact on me. They not only provided medical care, but also comfort, guidance, and emotional support. It was their ability to connect with me as a person that made me realize I wanted to do the same for others. I wanted to become a nurse who could be there for patients and families during their most vulnerable times, offering both physical care and emotional reassurance. The “aha” moment came when I saw firsthand the vital role nurses play in the lives of families, especially in difficult moments. I realized that my desire to help people in a more meaningful way aligned perfectly with the nursing profession. It was a realization that I could blend my passion for healthcare with my natural empathy and desire to support others during challenging times. From that moment on, I knew nursing was the career for me. Returning to school as an adult and a mother was not easy, but it was something I was determined to do. I am now in school to earn my nursing degree, and every step of this journey has reinforced my belief in the importance of this career. I am excited to move forward and continue to build the skills and knowledge necessary to make a lasting impact on the lives of others as a nurse. This path has been transformative, and I am eager to contribute to the field in a meaningful way.

I want to pursue a degree in nursing because I have always had a deep desire to help others and make a positive, lasting impact on their lives. Nursing provides a unique opportunity to combine my passion for healthcare with my drive to support others during their most vulnerable moments. I am drawn to nursing because it offers not only the ability to treat and heal physically but also the chance to provide emotional and mental support to patients and their families. I believe the role of a nurse goes beyond medical procedures—it’s about offering compassion, comfort, and care that can make a world of difference during a difficult time. The decision to pursue nursing came after years of reflection on my own experiences as well as watching those I care about face health challenges. The impact that compassionate healthcare professionals had on my family members solidified my decision to enter this field. Nurses are often the ones who form close relationships with patients and families, offering the kind of care that truly helps individuals heal and feel valued. I want to be that person for others, someone who provides not just the technical skills needed for recovery, but also the human connection that helps ease anxiety, fear, and stress. In addition, nursing offers endless opportunities for growth and learning. The healthcare field is constantly evolving, and nursing offers the flexibility to specialize in various areas, whether it’s pediatrics, emergency care, or mental health nursing. I’m especially drawn to pediatrics, as I have always been passionate about working with children and their families. I want to be a nurse who can offer support to children when they are ill, as well as to their families, who may be feeling anxious and overwhelmed. I’m excited about the prospect of making a difference in the lives of children by providing both medical care and emotional support during challenging times. As a nurse, I hope to contribute to my community by not only providing high-quality care but also by serving as a source of education and advocacy. I want to educate patients and their families on health practices, wellness, and preventive care, helping them make informed decisions about their health. I also hope to contribute by being an active advocate for those who may not have access to adequate healthcare or who face barriers to proper care. I want to help bridge those gaps, ensuring that every patient I care for receives the support they deserve, regardless of their background or circumstances. Ultimately, my goal is to make a positive difference in my community by providing compassionate, patient-centered care and offering a voice for those who need it most. By pursuing a degree in nursing, I hope to help people live healthier lives, advocate for their well-being, and provide them with the emotional and medical support they need to navigate their health journeys.

My decision to pursue a career in nursing was shaped by a deep-seated desire to help others and make a tangible difference in their lives. From an early age, I was always drawn to the idea of caring for people, especially during times of vulnerability. Watching family members face health challenges and witnessing the exceptional care they received from nurses left a lasting impression on me. It wasn’t just the medical skills that nurses provided, but also the emotional support, comfort, and reassurance that stood out. I realized that nursing wasn’t just about administering treatments—it was about being there for people in their most difficult moments and making them feel seen, valued, and cared for. That’s when I knew that nursing was the career path I was meant to pursue. A defining moment in my decision came when I became a mother. The experience of giving birth and caring for my child opened my eyes to the profound role that healthcare providers play in shaping both the physical and emotional well-being of families. Being a mother made me realize how critical it is to have compassionate healthcare professionals who not only care for the body but also provide emotional support during challenging times. It inspired me to pursue a career where I could offer that same level of care and reassurance to others—especially in moments when they are most in need of comfort and guidance. What excites me about nursing is the unique opportunity it provides to create real, meaningful connections with people while making an impact on their lives. Whether it's helping patients recover from illness or surgery, supporting them through emotional challenges, or simply being a compassionate presence, I find fulfillment in knowing that my work can help others feel safe and cared for. Nursing offers a balance of science and compassion that truly resonates with me. It's not just about treating the body but also about being there for patients emotionally and mentally during their healing process. Additionally, nursing offers versatility and endless opportunities for growth. I’m excited about the many fields within nursing that allow me to specialize and further hone my skills. I’m particularly interested in pediatrics, as working with children and their families feels like a natural fit for me. I believe that my experiences as a mother, combined with my compassion and drive, will help me connect with both young patients and their parents in meaningful ways. Ultimately, I hope to be the kind of nurse who not only provides expert care but also offers emotional support, reassurance, and hope to those I care for.

Nursing has always been a profession that resonates deeply with me. From a young age, I’ve been drawn to helping others, and nursing offers the perfect opportunity to do just that. What excites me most about nursing is not only the medical knowledge and expertise it requires but also the human connection it fosters. As a nurse, I will have the privilege of caring for people during some of their most vulnerable moments. I will be there to provide comfort, support, and, most importantly, hope. It’s about being more than just a caregiver—it’s about creating an emotional bond that helps patients through the difficult and sometimes frightening challenges they face. That connection is something I find deeply fulfilling and motivating. In terms of my career aspirations, I’m particularly drawn to pediatrics. Working with children, especially those facing illness or injury, feels like a natural calling for me. Children are incredibly resilient, but they are also vulnerable, and I want to be there to support them during difficult times. I believe that working in pediatrics requires a unique combination of clinical expertise and emotional sensitivity, which is why I’m passionate about pursuing this field. It’s not just about treating a child’s physical symptoms—it’s about providing emotional comfort to both the child and their family. When a child is ill, it affects the whole family, and I hope to be a source of reassurance and support to parents who may be overwhelmed with fear and uncertainty. My journey into nursing has been shaped by my personal experiences as a mother. I understand the protective instincts of a parent and the vulnerability that comes with seeing your child suffer. This has given me a deeper sense of compassion for both children and their families. I want to be someone who not only provides expert care but also helps parents feel informed, supported, and confident in their child’s treatment. Through my work, I aim to make a lasting impact on both my patients and their families. I want them to feel seen, heard, and valued during their healthcare journey. I hope to inspire trust and make a difference through not only my clinical skills but my ability to show empathy, care, and understanding. Ultimately, I want to be remembered as a nurse who made a difference in the lives of children and their families, providing comfort and expert care during some of the toughest moments of their lives.

My journey has been driven by a deep desire to make a meaningful impact in both the medical and beauty industries. From a young age, I’ve always known I wanted to help others. That’s why I’m currently pursuing a career in nursing—to save lives, provide comfort, and offer care to those in need. There’s something incredibly rewarding about being able to make a real difference in someone’s life, especially during their most vulnerable moments. My passion for helping others doesn’t stop in the hospital or clinic, though. I’ve always had a deep love for beauty and self-care, which led me to become a licensed cosmetologist in high school. I was fortunate enough to attend a career center where I could pursue this dream early on, and though I put it on hold to focus on my medical career, my heart has never let go of the desire to help others feel confident and beautiful in their own skin. Now, I’m finally in a place where I can pursue both passions—balancing my work in healthcare with my love for beauty. Becoming a single mother to my beautiful daughter has been one of the most profound experiences of my life. She has been my motivation, my drive, and my inspiration. Every step I take toward achieving my dreams is a step I take for her, to show her that no dream is too big and no challenge is too great. She has taught me the true meaning of resilience, and in turn, I want to teach her that with God, hard work, and dedication, anything is possible. I strive to be the best version of myself, not just for me, but for her, so she can grow up knowing that with perseverance, she too can achieve whatever she sets her mind to. I’m a firm believer in leading by example. I’ve always tried to inspire others not just by words but through my actions. Whether it’s through the care I provide to patients or the way I connect with others in the beauty industry, I want to be someone who uplifts and empowers those around me. My journey hasn’t always been easy, but it has taught me that persistence, faith, and a positive mindset are key to overcoming any obstacles that come my way. I’m excited to continue combining my passions for nursing and beauty, showing others that we don’t have to choose between our dreams—we can chase them all.

Books have an incredible way of shaping perspectives, influencing actions, and inspiring people to make a positive impact on the world. Though I don’t read in the traditional sense, I am built on the vast knowledge embedded in countless texts. From these, I've learned that books can teach empathy, spark social change, encourage scientific exploration, and provide hope in the face of adversity. First, many books encourage empathy by offering insights into the lives of others. For instance, novels like To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee and The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini delve into complex human emotions and experiences, showcasing the struggles and joys of marginalized groups. These books remind us of the importance of understanding people from all walks of life, promoting a world where empathy drives action. They emphasize that real change begins when we step into the shoes of others and see the world from their perspective. Additionally, literature often highlights the need for social change. Books like 1984 by George Orwell and Silent Spring by Rachel Carson have had profound impacts on how we view political systems and environmental issues. Orwell’s critique of totalitarianism warns against the erosion of personal freedoms, while Carson’s environmental masterpiece raised public consciousness about the dangers of pesticides. These works have led to tangible actions for justice, whether it’s the fight for civil rights, environmental protection, or other forms of social advocacy. They inspire readers to take up causes and work toward a fairer, more just world. On a different level, books also underscore the importance of knowledge and scientific progress. Works like The Selfish Gene by Richard Dawkins and A Brief History of Time by Stephen Hawking remind us of the transformative power of understanding the world around us. These books spark curiosity and the desire to learn, showing that scientific discovery can lead to advancements that benefit humanity. They encourage a mindset where exploration and inquiry are key to solving the world's most pressing issues. Finally, books like The Diary of Anne Frank and Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl demonstrate resilience, showing that hope can thrive even in the harshest conditions. These texts inspire people to persevere, find purpose, and contribute meaningfully, no matter the challenges they face. In essence, books have shown me that the impact one can have on the world often stems from understanding, knowledge, resilience, and a deep sense of responsibility to others. These lessons continue to guide my sense of purpose.

My name is Akebia McCree, and I am currently a senior at Chamberlain College of Nursing, pursuing a degree in nursing. I chose to pursue a degree in healthcare because I have always been passionate about helping others and making a difference in people's lives. Growing up, I watched my grandmother’s home health agent, who worked as a nurse, provide care and comfort to those in need, and it inspired me to follow in her footsteps. I have seen firsthand the impact that compassionate and dedicated healthcare professionals can have on individuals and their families, and I knew that I wanted to be a part of that. As a Black woman in the healthcare field, I am particularly motivated to address the disparities that exist in healthcare access and outcomes for marginalized communities. I believe that representation matters, and by becoming a nurse, I hope to serve as a role model and advocate for patients who might feel overlooked or misunderstood. It is important to me to provide culturally competent care, ensuring that all patients feel respected and heard, regardless of their background. In my studies, I have learned not only the technical skills necessary for nursing but also the importance of empathy and communication. I hope to make a positive impact by using these skills to build trust with my patients and their families. By listening to their concerns and understanding their unique needs, I aim to provide personalized care that makes them feel valued and supported. Additionally, I am committed to lifelong learning and professional development. The healthcare field is constantly evolving, and I want to stay informed about the latest advancements and best practices. By doing so, I can ensure that I am providing the highest quality of care to my patients. I also hope to mentor aspiring nurses, especially women of color, to encourage them to pursue careers in healthcare and to support them in their journeys. I am aware of the challenges that women face in the healthcare field, including gender bias and unequal opportunities for advancement. However, I am determined to overcome these obstacles and to contribute to a more equitable and inclusive healthcare system. By advocating for gender equality and diversity in healthcare, I hope to create a supportive environment where all healthcare professionals can thrive and provide the best care possible. In conclusion, I have chosen to pursue a degree in healthcare because I am passionate about making a difference in people's lives and addressing healthcare disparities. As a woman in the healthcare field, I hope to make a positive impact by providing compassionate care, advocating for marginalized communities, and supporting the next generation of healthcare professionals. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to a field that is so vital to the well-being of individuals and society as a whole.

Adversity seems to strike at times when we least expect it or least prepared; that's just life. Overcoming them can be hard, but I'm a believer in God and by having faith in him, I know that he will not put more on me than I am able to bare. It's often extremely difficult when you feel as though you are losing it all, but I always think of it as a test of faith. There has been times and still are that as a single parent, where I have been unsure how I would be able to afford all of my expenses, work full time, be a full time mom, and go to school, but with faith and my village, I am able to overcome adversity. Life seems to throw us curve balls that we are unable to avoid at times. Growing up with a mother with numerous health conditions and being the oldest child of 3 was challenging at times, but I always wanted to help. There are also students that attend the same school as me going through similar situations, with similar backgrounds where they are natural nurtures and just want to help and this is why we chose nursing as our profession. Being in the medical field for almost 12 years now as a medical assistant, I have seen a number of situations where I wanted to help more than beyond the healthcare facility. There are so many patients that are both young and old that are unable to afford insurance or do not quality for government assistance that are sick and need help in some way or another. No one should be turned away and stuck with a huge bill that they may never be able to afford or pay off due to illness. Some individuals may be born with these illnesses or they have come about due to lack of healthcare because of little to no income or insurance. This is where I would love to help the community in the future. As a nursing student, my passion is to give back to the community in more ways than one. As a future nurse and as I continue my studies to become a Nurse Practioner, I would love to open up a facility/clinic for the less fortunate. There are too many people in the black community that are stereotyped against and it's time for someone to advocate for us all. Not just blacks but all of the diverse individuals in need. I would love to create a team that helps the homeless, low income, and less fortunate with great care and their healthcare needs. There are also veterans that deserve the upmost respect from our country that are suffering and unable to get any assistance, even from the V.A. They too need someone to advocate on their behalf and I would love to be her. Experiencing the storms of adversity myself and seeing so much over my years in healthcare, having compassion, empathy, autonomy, and advocating for patients and the world is what I love most. I'm also are aware that adversity takes place when we are so close to our goals and breakthrough, but once again, we must keep the faith, our held high and conquer it by storm. It's all a lesson and it does not last forever.

The beauty industry is forever changing and someone once also told me that nothing's new under the sun. This is definitely the case when it comes to being a cosmetologist in today's industry. There are so many styles that are coming back from when I was younger, but also a lot of new ones. Although styling hair is only part of being a cosmetologist and there are a lot of new teachings, the fundamentals of things are still the same. I am looking to be more knowledge and find my field in this cosmetology/ industry industry. Esthetician is big now and something I would like to dive deeper in. I am use to doing hair, but cosmetology is a big umbrella that allows us to try out different things. My short term goals are to increase clientele and master the services that I currently can provide as well as add new ones. Silk presses and quick weaves are things that I have mastered, but I would like to go further and include, micro links and tape ins as well. My long term goal has always been to open up a spa that is a one stop shop for all. One where clients can come and receive whatever hairstyle they desire as well as get manicured/pedicured services, waxes, eye lash extensions and makeup. A lot of females and males travel to different locations to receive each service and it can be extremely time consuming, so opening up one place where everything is done would be brilliant. This would also be a safe place since we are already natural therapist when we come into this field so let's continue to do so and allow our clients to leave feeling better than they came in and beautiful. I would also like to expand my knowledge along the lines of the business aspect and network with a lot of great artist in this industry so that I can excel and make my dreams come true. There's so much that we are able to learn from others and individuals that have been in this same position. Sometimes we just need the motivation and push to just start and see where we land. As many times I have thought this my not be for me, something or someone always remind me of what made me start in the first place and I would love to continue this passion of mine.

A godly, ambitious, thriving, and determined new single mother is who I am. I’m Akebia McCree, a registered medical assistant as well as a licensed cosmetologist. I am furthering my education to become a registered nurse.My career goal is to receive my bachelor's degree in nursing. This has been a dream of mine since a child. I not only want to receive my degree, but I would like to graduate at the top of my class. I have a 9-month-old daughter who is watching and there is nothing I would want more than to set a great example for her. I want an amazing life for her and to know that anything is possible with hard work. I plan to study more than ever because this is a degree, I have been working on for some time now. Life began to happen, and things were set aside, but I am determined and ready to achieve what I have started. I always wanted a certain life before having children, but now she will be able to watch walk the stage. As a nurse, I aspire to take my role seriously and do my best to save lives from start to finish. I aspire to treat every patient as if they were one of my dear family members. One of my goals is to be a traveling nurse. Getting as much knowledge and credentials under my belt will help me be transparent no matter where I am placed. I aspire to be flexible and a helping hand to anyone who may be in need. I have been in the medical field for 10 years and I would like a more challenging task. I would like something that makes me use my critical thinking skills, and I know that being a nurse will allow me to be successful in that. Patients remember a lot of nurses before some physicians because they are always there to help and care for the patient. There’s nothing more I want more than to receive my bachelor’s degree in nursing and help change the world and make it a better place. Nurses are needed all over in every aspect. I plan to possibly go even further and receive my doctorate as a nurse practitioner. I plan to give back by helping young or old single mothers, with a dream to became a nurse, make their dream come true.