At the age of 15, my life changed drastically when I was diagnosed with a rare and complex medical condition. Before this, I had a relatively normal life—school, friends, and dreams for the future—but suddenly, my world became dominated by hospital visits, procedures, and uncertainty. I had lost my sense of freedom, normalcy, and future. Survival became my daily reality. Every day was a careful balance of managing my health, completing schoolwork, and maintaining a sense of normalcy. It was not a dramatic transformation overnight; it was slow, exhausting, and often isolating, yet it shaped who I am today in profound ways. High school was particularly challenging. I missed large portions of my junior and senior years due to hospitalizations, specialists’ appointments, and the physical toll of my illness. Some teachers and administrators suggested I consider dropping out or finding a different path, assuming college might not be attainable for someone in my situation. Instead, I worked tirelessly with my parents and medical team to create a graduation plan. I attended what classes I could, completed assignments remotely when possible, and coordinated with teachers to stay on track. By the end of high school, I graduated with a 3.98 GPA—a testament not to luck, but to persistence, organization, and determination. Every assignment turned in, every class attended, and every exam completed was a small victory in a life focused on surviving and moving forward despite significant obstacles. This period of my life taught me that survival is not simply about enduring; it is about finding ways to thrive within limitations. I learned to navigate complex systems, advocate for myself, and seek support when needed. I discovered resilience in the face of uncertainty and patience when progress seemed slow. I also learned to measure success differently: not by comparison to others, but by my ability to overcome challenges, adapt, and continue pursuing my goals. These lessons extend beyond academics—they shape how I approach life, relationships, and my future career. Living with a chronic condition also taught me empathy, perspective, and the importance of community. I have seen how crucial support systems are—my parents never left my side during hospital stays, even sharing the small hospital couch with me, while my siblings stepped up at home to manage daily responsibilities. These experiences instilled in me a deep appreciation for the role of compassion and teamwork in helping individuals face difficult circumstances. My journey has informed my goal of pursuing a career in nursing. I want to use the perspective gained from surviving chronic illness to provide meaningful, empathetic care to patients facing medical challenges. I aim to help patients feel supported, understood, and empowered, particularly children and families dealing with complex conditions. Beyond direct patient care, I hope to advocate for accessible, patient-centered healthcare and to mentor families navigating the medical system, helping them find resources, hope, and guidance in challenging times. Ultimately, surviving my health challenges has defined my life, shaped my values, and strengthened my commitment to making a positive impact. While I sometimes mourn the life I lost, I have learned that resilience, advocacy, and determination are powerful tools. My experiences have prepared me to face future challenges with focus, empathy, and purpose, and to support others in ways that are both practical and deeply human.

Being a part of the disabled community has profoundly shaped the way I view the world. Living with a rare and complex medical condition has given me firsthand insight into the challenges that people with chronic illnesses face—physical, emotional, and social. I have experienced hospitalizations, medical procedures, and uncertainty that could have been isolating, yet I learned to navigate these experiences with resilience and determination. Through this journey, I have gained a deep appreciation for empathy, inclusivity, and the power of support systems in helping individuals thrive despite limitations. My perspective has been shaped not only by my own experiences but also by observing and connecting with others in the disabled community. I have seen how individuals adapt to challenges, advocate for themselves, and support one another. These interactions taught me that being part of a community means contributing to a network of care and understanding, and that every person—regardless of ability—has unique strengths and potential. I learned to value diversity in experience and ability, and I have come to understand that resilience often arises from the relationships and resources we build around us. Being part of this community has also highlighted the importance of advocacy and accessibility. I have experienced firsthand how small barriers, whether physical, social, or systemic, can significantly impact quality of life. This awareness has fueled my desire to create inclusive environments where individuals are empowered to reach their full potential. I hope to carry this understanding into my future endeavors by advocating for equitable access to care, education, and opportunities for all, particularly those with rare or complex medical conditions. In my pursuit of a career in healthcare, I intend to leverage my experiences in the disabled community to positively impact patients and families. I understand the fear and uncertainty that can accompany chronic or rare illnesses, and I want to provide compassionate care, guidance, and advocacy. I hope to ensure that patients feel supported, informed, and empowered, knowing that their voices and concerns are valued. My goal is to create an environment where patients feel understood not only medically but also emotionally and socially, reflecting the holistic care I have learned to appreciate through my own journey. Beyond clinical care, I aim to engage with organizations and nonprofits that support children and families managing complex medical conditions. I want to provide mentorship, resources, and community connections, helping families navigate healthcare challenges while maintaining hope and resilience. By combining personal experience, empathy, and advocacy, I hope to make meaningful contributions to both individual lives and the broader healthcare community. Being part of the disabled community has instilled in me resilience, empathy, and a commitment to advocacy. It has shaped how I view challenges—not as limitations, but as opportunities to grow, adapt, and help others. These lessons guide my vision for the future: to create inclusive, compassionate, and empowering spaces in healthcare, education, and community service. I am committed to using my experiences to ensure that individuals facing adversity know they are seen, supported, and capable of achieving their goals.

My personal challenges have been central in shaping my decision to pursue a career in medicine. Living with a rare medical condition has tested my resilience, perseverance, and adaptability in ways that few other experiences could. I have faced repeated hospitalizations, complex procedures, and periods of uncertainty that could have easily derailed my academic and personal goals. There are days I barely remember, lying in a hospital bed, unsure if I would recover, and nights when the fear of the unknown felt overwhelming. Through these experiences, I learned to advocate for myself, maintain focus on my goals, and persevere despite obstacles. These lessons have inspired me to dedicate my life to helping others navigate their own health challenges. Family support has played a pivotal role in my journey. While I was hospitalized, my parents never left my side, pulling out the couch in the small hospital room each night to be close to me. My siblings stepped in at home, managing household responsibilities so my parents could focus on my care. Witnessing their selflessness taught me the profound value of empathy, teamwork, and community—qualities I intend to bring into my medical career. I learned that resilience is not just an individual trait; it is built through connection, support, and collaboration, and I aim to carry that understanding into the care I provide patients and families. Experiencing a complex medical condition firsthand has given me unique insight into what patients and families face emotionally, mentally, and physically. I understand how intimidating frequent hospital visits, specialized treatments, and uncertainty can be. I want to be a healthcare provider who not only delivers competent medical care but also offers reassurance, guidance, and advocacy. I hope to empower patients to understand and manage their conditions, ensuring they feel supported and heard throughout their medical journey. I am particularly passionate about supporting children with rare or complex conditions. Pediatric patients often rely on caregivers to help them navigate fear and uncertainty while maintaining hope and resilience. Drawing on my own experiences, I want to provide encouragement and mentorship, helping children and their families feel confident in the face of medical challenges. I also envision working with nonprofits and community organizations that support children with rare conditions, providing resources, education, and emotional support to reduce barriers to care and enhance overall well-being. These personal challenges have not only strengthened my resilience but also shaped my perspective on healthcare. I have learned the importance of empathy, advocacy, and human connection, and I am committed to integrating these values into my medical career. I aim to create a supportive environment for patients where their needs are prioritized and their voices are heard. By combining clinical skill with personal insight and compassion, I hope to improve individual patient experiences and broader healthcare outcomes. Ultimately, my experiences have given me both the motivation and the understanding to make a meaningful impact in medicine. I want patients and families to feel supported, empowered, and cared for, even in the most difficult circumstances. My journey has taught me that resilience, empathy, and advocacy are as essential as medical knowledge in healthcare, and I am committed to bringing these qualities into every aspect of my career.

Adversity has been a constant companion in my life, both physical and emotional, and it has shaped how I approach challenges in pursuit of my career aspirations. Living with a chronic medical condition, I have faced frequent hospitalizations, procedures, and periods of uncertainty that could have derailed my academic and professional goals. However, I have learned that perseverance is a choice, and maintaining focus on my long-term vision is essential to achieving success. When confronted with physical or mental obstacles, the first step I take is to assess the situation realistically. I prioritize my responsibilities, distinguishing what must be addressed immediately and what can be approached gradually. For example, while managing college coursework, part-time employment in healthcare, and ongoing medical care, I developed detailed schedules, breaking tasks into manageable steps. This approach allowed me to meet deadlines, maintain high academic performance, and continue gaining experience in patient care despite ongoing health challenges. I also actively seek support and guidance from mentors, peers, and my family. When facing setbacks, I discuss strategies for managing both academic and personal demands, ensuring I have resources and encouragement to move forward. I have found that asking for help is not a sign of weakness but a crucial step in resilience and problem-solving. My support system has provided emotional stability and practical solutions, helping me continue my path toward becoming a nurse. Another key step is self-reflection and maintaining perspective. I remind myself of why I chose this career and the impact I hope to have on others. Recalling my experiences as a patient, I recognize the importance of empathy, advocacy, and compassionate care. These reflections motivate me to persevere, reinforcing that my work has meaning and that overcoming challenges prepares me to better serve patients in the future. Finally, I actively cultivate resilience through balance and self-care. I prioritize rest, mental health, and activities that recharge me, such as spending time outdoors or connecting with family. These practices sustain my energy and focus, enabling me to approach challenges with clarity and determination. Through these steps—prioritization, seeking support, reflection, and self-care—I have continued to pursue my career aspirations despite significant adversity. Each obstacle has strengthened my perseverance, empathy, and adaptability, shaping me into a future nurse prepared to face challenges alongside patients and advocate for their well-being. My experiences have taught me that resilience is not about avoiding hardship but about finding strategies to navigate it while remaining committed to one’s goals.

My experience with sepsis was life-changing and deeply formative. There are days I don’t remember—hours spent lying in a hospital bed, fighting an infection that had taken over my body, uncertain if I would survive. During those moments of vulnerability, the unwavering presence of my parents became my anchor. They never left my side, even sharing the small hospital room with me, pulling out the couch each night to rest just feet away. Their constant support reminded me that even in the darkest moments, love and care can provide strength and hope. While my parents stayed with me, my siblings stepped up at home, taking on responsibilities to ensure the household continued running smoothly. They cooked meals, managed daily routines, and cared for each other, allowing my parents to focus on being present with me. Their quiet and selfless efforts highlighted the power of family, teamwork, and sacrifice. I realized that resilience is not just an individual quality—it is also built through the support of those who care for us, even when circumstances feel overwhelming. When I finally recovered and returned home, the reality of what I had endured hit me fully. I remember lying in bed that first night, tears streaming down my face as I tried to fall asleep, overwhelmed with gratitude and fear. I had come so close to losing my life, and the experience left me with a profound sense of purpose and perspective. I understood the fragility of life and the importance of human connection, and I felt an intense drive to turn my experience into something meaningful—helping others navigate the fear, uncertainty, and pain that comes with serious illness. This experience has profoundly shaped my path toward nursing. I understand, from a patient’s perspective, the fear, vulnerability, and anxiety that accompany serious medical conditions. I am motivated to be a nurse who not only provides excellent medical care but also offers empathy, reassurance, and advocacy to patients and their families during their most difficult moments. I want to help patients feel seen and supported, just as my family and care team helped me through mine. Living through sepsis also strengthened my resilience, adaptability, and determination—qualities that carry over into my academic and professional life. Balancing the demands of college coursework while managing ongoing health challenges has required organization, effective time management, and prioritization. There have been days when attending class, completing assignments, and working part-time in healthcare roles felt nearly impossible, yet I learned to persevere, drawing on the same inner strength that carried me through hospitalization. Professionally, I have sought opportunities to apply these lessons in healthcare. As a hospital phlebotomist and dialysis technician, I have witnessed how critical compassion, patience, and advocacy are to patient care. Each interaction reinforced my desire to make a meaningful impact as a nurse, using my experience and empathy to advocate for and empower patients. Beyond direct patient care, I plan to work with nonprofits supporting children and families facing complex medical conditions, providing mentorship, resources, and emotional support. By combining clinical expertise with advocacy, I hope to improve both individual patient experiences and broader community health outcomes. Ultimately, surviving sepsis taught me resilience, empathy, and the importance of a strong support system. It solidified my desire to become a nurse who provides both clinical expertise and emotional support. I am committed to using my experiences to empower patients, advocate for underserved populations, and create environments where families feel supported and valued.

My vision for myself as a nurse in the future is to provide compassionate, patient-centered care while advocating for and empowering individuals facing complex health challenges. Nursing, to me, is not only about applying medical knowledge and clinical skills—it is about connecting with patients, understanding their unique needs, and creating an environment where they feel supported, informed, and valued. I want to be a nurse who leaves a lasting impact not only through treatments and procedures but also through guidance, empathy, and encouragement, helping patients regain confidence and hope during some of the most difficult moments in their lives. My personal experiences as a patient living with a chronic medical condition have profoundly shaped this vision. Navigating frequent hospital visits, procedures, and treatments taught me resilience, patience, and the importance of compassionate care. I have witnessed firsthand how a dedicated nurse can transform a patient’s experience—not just by addressing medical needs but by offering support, education, and advocacy. One nurse, in particular, inspired me to pursue this career by demonstrating the impact of empathy, guidance, and advocacy on a patient’s well-being. I want to carry that same commitment into my practice, ensuring that every patient I care for feels understood, respected, and empowered to participate in their own care. Professionally, I envision myself serving in both clinical and community settings. In hospitals or clinics, I aim to be a nurse who listens actively, advocates for patients, and educates families to help them navigate complex healthcare systems. I also aspire to work with nonprofits that support children and families dealing with rare or chronic medical conditions, providing resources, mentorship, and emotional support. By combining hands-on patient care with advocacy and outreach, I hope to make a meaningful difference in both individual lives and the broader community. I also envision myself as a mentor and role model for future nurses, sharing the lessons I have learned about resilience, empathy, and patient advocacy. I believe that nursing is strengthened when caregivers support each other, collaborate, and continue learning from one another. My goal is to foster environments where colleagues and patients alike feel encouraged, valued, and empowered to achieve their best. Ultimately, my vision as a nurse is to be a compassionate, driven, and impactful caregiver who not only provides excellent medical care but also transforms the experience of being a patient into one of dignity, trust, and hope. I want to use my own experiences, skills, and empathy to empower patients and families, advocate for underserved populations, and contribute to a healthcare system that values both healing and humanity. Nursing is not just a career to me—it is a lifelong mission to create meaningful, positive change in the lives of others.

Resilience, to me, means facing challenges with determination, adaptability, and the willingness to keep moving forward even when the path feels uncertain. Living with a chronic medical condition has tested my resilience in profound ways. Throughout high school and college, I have faced frequent medical appointments, procedures, and hospitalizations that could have derailed my education and goals. There were moments when the demands of my health felt overwhelming, and some doubted I could graduate or succeed in college. Yet, I have learned that resilience is not about avoiding obstacles—it is about how I respond to them, maintain focus, and continue striving toward my goals despite setbacks. As a college student, I live resilience every day by balancing the rigorous demands of academics with the unpredictable challenges of managing a chronic condition. I have had to develop strong organizational skills, effective time management, and the ability to prioritize tasks without compromising my health. For example, while completing a full course load, I worked 25–48 hours a week in healthcare roles, including as a hospital phlebotomist and dialysis technician. These positions demanded attention, precision, and compassion, even on days when my energy was low or my health required extra care. Despite these challenges, I have excelled academically, maintained high performance, and continued gaining valuable experience in patient care. Resilience also means using my experiences to make a positive impact on others. Living with a chronic condition has given me a unique perspective as both a student and a future healthcare provider. I am committed to advocating for patients, educating them, and providing compassionate care, drawing from my own understanding of what it feels like to navigate medical challenges. Beyond my professional work, I have volunteered in my community, serving on the Richmond Youth City Council to organize events and bring people together, demonstrating that resilience can extend into service and leadership as well. My ambition drives me to not only overcome personal challenges but also to excel in ways that inspire and support others. I plan to use my nursing education and experience to advocate for patients, especially children and families facing complex medical conditions, and to partner with nonprofits that provide mentorship, resources, and emotional support. Resilience, for me, is about maintaining the courage to pursue my goals, the drive to overcome obstacles, and the commitment to make a meaningful impact on the lives of others. In essence, resilience is both a mindset and a practice. It is what allows me to navigate the demands of college, healthcare, and personal growth while maintaining my ambition and drive. It is the foundation of my commitment to lead, serve, and make a difference in my community and the world. Living with a chronic condition has shown me the power of perseverance, and I am determined to use that strength to achieve my goals and empower others along the way.

Living with a chronic medical condition during my formative years profoundly shaped my life, my ambitions, and the person I am today. The frequent hospital visits, procedures, and medical appointments that became part of my routine created challenges that affected both my education and my social life. There were moments of uncertainty, isolation, and physical and emotional fatigue that could have easily discouraged me from pursuing my goals. Yet, I was determined not to let these obstacles define me. Each setback became an opportunity to develop resilience, adaptability, and a deeper understanding of perseverance. Despite these limitations, I was inspired to excel academically, professionally, and personally. The support and guidance I received from dedicated healthcare professionals and my family demonstrated the power of compassion, advocacy, and encouragement. Their influence motivated me to take ownership of my education, complete my studies with distinction, and pursue opportunities to give back to others. I realized that while I could not always control the challenges of my condition, I could control my response to them and the ways I chose to impact my environment. This mindset shaped my decision to pursue a career in nursing. Through my professional experience as a hospital phlebotomist and dialysis technician, I have witnessed firsthand the ways that compassion, empathy, and advocacy can transform a patient’s experience. I have learned that nursing is not only about medical knowledge and technical skill but also about empowering patients, listening to their concerns, and helping them navigate challenges with dignity and confidence. These experiences have reinforced my commitment to using my journey and insights to make a tangible difference in the lives of others. Beyond direct patient care, I am inspired to positively impact my community and empower others facing challenges. I plan to work with nonprofits that support children with complex medical conditions, helping provide resources, mentorship, and emotional support for families navigating healthcare systems. I am passionate about education, advocacy, and fostering environments where patients and families feel heard, valued, and supported. By sharing knowledge, connecting resources, and offering guidance, I hope to help others find strength and resilience in the face of their own obstacles. Ultimately, living with a chronic medical condition has taught me perseverance, empathy, and the importance of serving others. I am committed to using these qualities to excel as a nurse, advocate for patients, and create meaningful change within my community. My experiences have given me the perspective, drive, and determination to empower others, ensuring that the care I provide and the work I pursue uplifts, inspires, and supports those who face challenges in their own lives.

My inspiration to pursue a career in nursing stems from my personal journey as a patient living with Behçet’s disease, a rare and complex autoimmune disorder diagnosed when I was 15. This disease significantly disrupted my high school years, requiring frequent hospital visits, procedures, and consultations with numerous specialists. At times, I felt overwhelmed, isolated, and uncertain about my future. Many people, including teachers and administrators, doubted I could graduate or pursue higher education because of my frequent absences and health setbacks. Yet, I was determined to persevere, fueled by the unwavering support of my family and the extraordinary care provided by my medical team. Their guidance, encouragement, and compassion inspired me to pursue nursing—not just as a career but as a calling to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others facing medical challenges. One person who profoundly shaped my journey is my pediatric rheumatology nurse, Niki. She guided me through complex treatments, taught me to manage my care, and advocated for me when I felt uncertain or afraid. Her dedication and empathy made a lasting impression on me, demonstrating the power of nursing to impact patients’ lives not only medically but also emotionally and mentally. Witnessing her compassion inspired me to become a nurse who combines clinical skill with advocacy, education, and emotional support, helping patients navigate challenges while empowering them to take an active role in their care. Beyond my personal health experiences, I have pursued opportunities to give back and develop as a caregiver. Professionally, I have worked as a hospital phlebotomist and dialysis technician, roles that allowed me to build meaningful relationships with patients, advocate for their needs, and ensure they received timely, compassionate care. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I volunteered for extra shifts to support an overstretched team while continuing my studies remotely. These experiences reinforced my sense of responsibility, resilience, and determination, qualities that I carry into every patient interaction. I have also sought ways to positively impact my community outside of direct patient care. For four years, I served on the Richmond Youth City Council, helping plan community events such as the city’s Easter egg hunt, Veterans Day dinner, holiday festivities, and summer movie nights in the park. This work taught me the importance of collaboration, leadership, and service and showed me how even small acts of planning and dedication can foster connection, inclusion, and joy within a community. While nursing and healthcare are central to my identity, I also prioritize balance and personal fulfillment through time spent in the outdoors and with family. Hiking, camping, and exploring nature are activities that recharge me physically and mentally, providing perspective and grounding amidst the demands of nursing school and professional responsibilities. Being in nature reminds me of the importance of patience, observation, and presence—qualities I bring to my work as a caregiver. Equally, time spent with my family is a source of joy, comfort, and motivation. Sharing meals, celebrating milestones, or simply enjoying quiet moments together strengthens my sense of purpose and reminds me of the relationships that matter most in life. My journey has been defined by resilience, determination, and the unwavering belief that challenges can be met with perseverance, creativity, and support. Living with a rare disease has given me a unique perspective as both a patient and a caregiver, instilling empathy, compassion, and a desire to advocate for others. These experiences shape the nurse I am becoming—one who will combine clinical expertise with a human-centered approach, ensuring that patients feel seen, heard, and valued. Ultimately, nursing is not just a career for me; it is a mission to make a lasting impact in the lives of patients and their families. At the same time, my love for the outdoors, connection with nature, and time with family provide balance, joy, and purpose outside of my professional life. Together, these experiences and values form the foundation of who I am—as a student, a caregiver, and a person striving to create meaningful, compassionate, and lasting change in both my community and the world.

My inspiration to pursue a career in nursing stems from my personal experiences as a patient living with Behçet’s disease, a rare and complex autoimmune disorder diagnosed when I was 15. This diagnosis disrupted my high school years, requiring frequent hospital visits, procedures, and consultations with numerous specialists. At times, I felt isolated, anxious, and uncertain about my future, and many people doubted I could graduate or pursue higher education. Despite these challenges, I was determined to persevere, supported by an extraordinary medical team and my family. Their guidance and encouragement fueled my ambition to achieve my goals, and their compassion inspired me to pursue nursing—a career where I could make a tangible and lasting impact on the lives of others. One nurse, in particular, Niki, profoundly shaped my vision of nursing. She guided me through treatments, taught me how to manage my care, and advocated for me when I felt overwhelmed. Witnessing her dedication and selflessness showed me the power of a nurse to provide not only medical care but also emotional support, guidance, and hope. Her example inspired me to become a nurse who combines clinical expertise with empathy, advocacy, and education to improve patients’ experiences and outcomes. My drive to succeed is reflected in both my academic and professional achievements. Despite frequent medical setbacks, I graduated high school on time with a 3.98 GPA, and I have balanced working while pursuing my nursing degree. Professionally, I have worked as a hospital phlebotomist and dialysis technician, building relationships with patients, advocating for their needs, and ensuring they received timely, compassionate care. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I volunteered for extra shifts to support my overworked team, demonstrating my commitment to helping others even under challenging circumstances. These experiences have strengthened my determination, resilience, and sense of responsibility, all of which will guide me throughout my nursing career. I am motivated not only to care for individual patients but also to make a broader impact in my community. I plan to work with nonprofits supporting children with rare and complex diseases, providing resources, mentorship, and advocacy to families navigating challenging diagnoses. Nursing allows me to channel my ambition and drive into action, combining my personal experiences, professional skills, and passion for service to empower patients, educate communities, and improve lives. Ultimately, nursing is more than a career—it is my calling. I am driven to make a difference, and I am committed to using my ambition, perseverance, and compassion to become a nurse who leaves a meaningful and lasting impact on both patients and the broader community.

I plan to continue to give back to my community through both professional and volunteer work that focuses on service, advocacy, and direct support for others. Professionally, I have worked as a hospital phlebotomist and dialysis technician, roles that have allowed me to build meaningful relationships with patients, advocate for their needs, and ensure they receive timely and compassionate care. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I volunteered for extra shifts to support an overstretched healthcare team, prioritizing patient care and helping colleagues manage the increased demand. Through these experiences, I have learned the value of resilience, teamwork, and empathy in making a positive difference in the lives of others. In addition to my professional work, I have served my community through leadership and volunteer roles. For four years, I was an active member of the Richmond Youth City Council, where I organized community events such as the city’s Easter egg hunt, Veterans Day dinner, holiday festivities, and summer movie nights in the park. These experiences taught me how collaboration, planning, and dedication can bring people together, foster community, and create lasting, positive change. Looking toward the future, I plan to make an even greater impact as a nurse and advocate for patients, particularly children facing rare and complex diseases. My own experience living with Behçet’s disease has given me unique insight into the challenges that patients and their families face, from navigating complex healthcare systems to managing emotional and physical hardships. I am committed to using this perspective to empower patients, provide education, and advocate for their needs in both clinical and community settings. Beyond direct patient care, I plan to partner with nonprofits that support children with rare and complex diseases. By contributing my time, knowledge, and professional expertise, I hope to develop programs that provide resources, mentorship, and emotional support to children and families who are often overlooked. I also aim to raise awareness about these diseases and support efforts to improve access to care and research opportunities. Ultimately, my goal is to combine my professional skills as a nurse with my passion for advocacy and service to create meaningful, long-lasting change. I want to ensure that patients, especially children with rare conditions, receive not only medical care but also the compassion, guidance, and community support that I have been fortunate to experience. Through nursing, volunteering, and nonprofit work, I hope to positively impact the lives of individuals, families, and communities, inspiring hope and improving wellness for those who need it most.

I want to pursue a degree in nursing because of my personal experiences as a patient living with Behçet’s disease, a rare and complex autoimmune disorder diagnosed when I was 15. This disease disrupted my high school years, requiring frequent hospital visits, procedures, and consultations with numerous specialists. During this time, I often felt isolated and uncertain about my future. Many teachers and administrators doubted I could graduate or pursue college due to the amount of school I missed. The nurses and medical professionals who treated me with compassion and patience made a profound difference in my life. One nurse, in particular, Niki, guided me through treatments, taught me how to manage my care, and advocated for me when I felt unsure or overwhelmed. Her dedication and selflessness inspired me to pursue nursing—to provide not only medical care but also emotional support, education, and advocacy for patients and their families. Beyond my personal health journey, I have actively served my community and gained hands-on healthcare experience. I served four years on the Richmond Youth City Council, organizing events such as the city’s Easter egg hunt, holiday festivities, Veterans Day dinner, and summer movie nights in the park. These experiences taught me the importance of collaboration, leadership, and service, and showed me how small acts of planning and dedication can create lasting positive impacts in a community. Professionally, as a hospital phlebotomist during the COVID-19 pandemic, I volunteered for extra shifts to support an overstretched team while continuing my studies remotely. Later, as a dialysis technician, I developed strong relationships with patients, helping them navigate medical challenges, access essential resources, and understand their treatments. These experiences reinforced my understanding that nursing requires both clinical skill and compassion. As a nurse, I hope to contribute to my community by providing patient-centered care that addresses not only physical health but also emotional, social, and mental well-being. I aim to be an advocate for my patients, ensuring they feel supported, empowered, and understood. I also plan to promote preventive health education, helping individuals make informed decisions to improve their overall wellness. My personal experiences as a patient have given me a unique perspective on the challenges patients face, and I am committed to using this insight to guide, support, and inspire others. Nursing is more than a career to me—it is a calling. It allows me to combine my passion for science, service, and human connection while making a tangible difference in people’s lives. By becoming a nurse, I hope to provide compassionate care, advocate for my patients, and strengthen my community’s health and well-being, just as the caregivers in my life once did for me. I am determined to carry forward the lessons of resilience, empathy, and dedication I learned as a patient and volunteer to make a meaningful impact on the lives of others.

1. My personal inspiration for pursuing a career in nursing stems from my experiences as a patient living with Behçet’s disease, a rare and complex autoimmune disorder diagnosed at age 15. This disease disrupted my high school years and made pursuing education feel overwhelming. I faced countless hospital visits, procedures, and setbacks, often feeling isolated and uncertain about my future. During this time, my pediatric rheumatology nurse, Niki, became a guiding light. She taught me how to manage my treatments, answered every question, and advocated for me when challenges arose. Her compassion, patience, and dedication transformed my experience as a patient and showed me the profound impact a nurse can have—not just medically, but emotionally and mentally as well. Witnessing her care inspired me to pursue nursing, with the goal of providing that same level of advocacy, education, and support to others. Beyond personal experience, I have also served my community and developed hands-on healthcare skills. I worked as a hospital phlebotomist during the COVID-19 pandemic, volunteering for extra shifts to support an overstretched team, and later as a dialysis technician, building relationships with patients and helping them navigate challenges, such as accessing medications. These experiences reinforced my understanding that nursing is both a science and an act of service. I am motivated to become a nurse not only to provide medical care but also to advocate for patients, educate them, and empower them during difficult times. My journey as a patient and caregiver has instilled resilience, empathy, and a commitment to serving others—qualities I will carry into every interaction as a nurse. Nursing, to me, is more than a career; it is a lifelong mission to make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients and their families. 2.To me, the phrase “human touch” represents the compassion, empathy, and personal connection. It is the ability to see patients as individuals with unique experiences, fears, and needs, and to respond with understanding, care, and respect. Human touch is not limited to physical contact—it encompasses emotional support, active listening, and genuine presence in a patient’s journey. I have experienced the power of human touch firsthand as a patient living with Behçet’s disease. Facing complex treatments, hospitalizations, and uncertainty, I often felt scared and alone. The nurses and medical professionals who treated me with empathy, patience, and encouragement made a profound difference. One nurse, Niki, guided me through procedures, answered my questions, and provided emotional support during moments of fear. Her human touch not only eased my anxiety but also empowered me to participate in my own care and regain a sense of control. Human touch can significantly impact patient care by fostering trust, reducing stress, and improving outcomes. Patients who feel understood and supported are more likely to follow treatment plans, communicate openly, and engage in their care. In my work as a dialysis technician, I connected with patients beyond their treatments, listening to their concerns and advocating for resources such as medication access. These interactions strengthened relationships, improved adherence to care plans, and enhanced overall patient well-being. In nursing, human touch also ensures that care is patient-centered and holistic. It reminds healthcare providers to address emotional, social, and psychological needs alongside physical health. By prioritizing empathy and connection, nurses can create a safe environment where patients feel valued, respected, and supported during vulnerable times. In summary, human touch is the cornerstone of compassionate, effective care. It transforms healthcare from a technical task into a meaningful human experience. Through empathy, presence, and advocacy, I aim to incorporate human touch into every patient interaction, improving lives and fostering trust, dignity, and healing within my community.

1. My name is Allie Thacker, and I am a nursing student dedicated to providing compassionate care. At 15, I was diagnosed with Behçet’s disease, a rare and complex autoimmune disorder. This diagnosis disrupted my high school years and presented challenges that made pursuing my education feel impossible at times. With the unwavering support of my medical team and family, I graduated high school on time with a 3.98 GPA. These experiences instilled in me resilience, determination, and a deep appreciation for the human side of healthcare. The compassion and advocacy shown by my pediatric rheumatology nurse, Niki, inspired me to pursue nursing. I want to be a nurse who not only provides medical care but also empowers patients and their families, educates them about their health, and advocates for their needs. Through volunteer work with the Richmond Youth City Council and professional experience as a phlebotomist and dialysis technician, I have seen the importance of community, empathy, and advocacy in health and wellness. These values—resilience, compassion, and service—have shaped me into a student and future healthcare professional passionate about improving the lives of others. To me, empathy is the ability to meet others where they are at, to mourn with them, to help fight their fight, and to stand as unwavering support. In nursing, empathy is essential because patients are often vulnerable, scared, or in pain. A nurse who practices empathy not only provides medical care but also helps patients feel understood, supported, and empowered to participate in their own healing. Empathy allows caregivers to see the patient as a whole person, rather than just a diagnosis or procedure. My own experiences as a patient have profoundly shaped my understanding of empathy. Living with Behçet’s disease since age 15, I faced numerous hospitalizations, procedures, and setbacks that made me feel isolated and uncertain about my future. The nurses and doctors who treated me with genuine care, answered my questions, and advocated for me helped me regain hope and confidence. One nurse, in particular, Niki, guided me through complex treatments and taught me how to navigate the healthcare system. Her empathy not only made my experiences more manageable but also inspired me to pursue nursing so I can offer that same support to others. I plan to ensure my work remains human-centered by actively listening to patients, recognizing their individual experiences, and advocating for their needs. For example, as a dialysis technician, I helped a patient who could not afford their medications connect with a social worker, restoring their access to care. By understanding patients’ lives, challenges, and goals, I can tailor care plans to meet their needs holistically. Empathy also means acknowledging the emotional and social dimensions of health. In my professional and volunteer work, I have learned that health outcomes improve when patients feel valued, heard, and respected. As a nurse, I will prioritize patient education, emotional support, and advocacy, ensuring that every interaction considers the patient’s perspective and dignity. In short, empathy is the foundation of compassionate, human-centered care. My experiences as both a patient and caregiver have shown me that understanding, advocating, and connecting with others are as important as clinical skills. By approaching healthcare through an empathetic lens, I aim to empower patients, improve health outcomes, and make a meaningful impact in my community.

My name is Allie Thacker, and I am a nursing student passionate about providing compassionate care and advocating for patients. At the age of 15, I was diagnosed with Behçet’s disease, a rare and complex autoimmune disorder. This diagnosis significantly impacted my junior and senior years of high school, causing me to miss many classes and face skepticism from teachers and administrators who doubted I could graduate or pursue college. Despite these challenges, I was supported by an extraordinary medical team and my family, who encouraged me to persevere. With their guidance, I graduated high school on time with a 3.98 GPA. These experiences instilled resilience, determination, and a deep understanding of the importance of patient-centered care, which inspired my decision to pursue a nursing degree. My passion for nursing was sparked by the care I received from my pediatric rheumatology nurse, Niki. She guided me through treatments, answered my questions, taught me how to manage my care, and advocated for me when I felt overwhelmed. Her dedication and compassion profoundly shaped my understanding of what a nurse can do for patients and their families. I want to provide that same support to others—educating, advocating, and comforting patients as they navigate complex health challenges. Beyond my personal health journey, I have actively contributed to my community. I served on the Richmond Youth City Council for four years, holding leadership positions and organizing events such as the city’s Easter egg hunt, holiday festivities, Veterans Day dinner, and summer movie nights in the park. These experiences taught me the value of collaboration, inclusion, and service. I witnessed how even small acts of leadership and organization can create meaningful change and strengthen a community, lessons I carry into my nursing career. In addition, my professional experience in healthcare has strengthened my commitment to serving others. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I worked as a hospital phlebotomist, volunteering for extra shifts and helping support an overworked team while continuing my studies. Later, as a dialysis technician, I built strong relationships with patients, advocating for those in need, helping them access essential resources, and supporting them through medical challenges. These roles reinforced the importance of responsibility, empathy, and dedication in making a positive impact. Through my nursing degree and future career, I plan to make a meaningful impact by providing compassionate care, advocating for patients, and promoting health education in my community. My experiences as a patient and a caregiver have given me unique insight into the needs and fears patients face, and I am committed to using that perspective to improve the lives of others. This scholarship will help me complete my nursing degree and continue my mission of serving my community with empathy, dedication, and resilience.

My name is Allie Thacker, and I am a nursing student passionate about community health and helping others overcome challenges. At 15, I was diagnosed with Behçet’s disease, a rare and complex autoimmune disorder. This diagnosis disrupted my junior and senior years of high school, and many teachers and administrators doubted I could graduate or pursue college. Despite these obstacles, I was supported by an incredible medical team and my family, who encouraged me to persevere. With their help, I graduated high school on time with a 3.98 GPA. These experiences shaped my resilience and inspired my goal of becoming a nurse, so I can advocate for patients and provide the same compassion and support I received. I have always believed in the power of community and service. For four years, I was an active member of the Richmond Youth City Council, where I held several leadership positions. Together, we organized the city’s Easter egg hunt, set up holiday lights, hosted summer movie nights in the park, and planned a Veterans Day dinner for the local community. Through these experiences, I learned that bringing people from different backgrounds together can create meaningful change. I saw how service not only benefits the community but also fosters friendships, collaboration, and mutual respect among team members. One of the most rewarding moments was seeing children who were initially hesitant join our council and eventually take ownership of projects, realizing the value of their contributions. Being part of this team taught me that even small actions can have a lasting, positive impact. My commitment to serving others extends into my professional life. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I worked as a hospital phlebotomist at a time when fear, uncertainty, and staff shortages were high. Despite long hours and personal challenges, I volunteered for extra shifts to support my team and ensure patients received the care they needed. Later, as a dialysis technician, I developed strong relationships with patients and advocated for their well-being. For example, one patient confided that they had lost their job and could not afford essential medications. I connected them with our social worker, helping them secure insurance and disability coverage. Witnessing this patient regain hope and stability reinforced my belief that service and advocacy can profoundly improve someone’s life. These experiences, both in volunteer work and professional healthcare roles, have strengthened my dedication to serving others. They have shown me that compassion, responsibility, and perseverance can make a tangible difference in a community, whether through organizing events, supporting a team, or advocating for an individual patient. This scholarship will help me complete my nursing degree and continue my commitment to service, allowing me to provide compassionate care to patients facing life-altering medical challenges. I hope to inspire others, just as I have been inspired, and to make a lasting impact on my community every day.