I always knew that I wanted to pursue a career in an area where I could help people. I didn’t just want a job, I wanted to make a difference. My love and passion for healthcare began when I was 16. At that time, I became a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) through Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College (WITC). This class was offered through the youth options program at my high school. I have received a lot of support and encouragement from my older siblings, who all work in the healthcare field. My two older sisters worked as CNAs at a nursing home while attending college, and I noticed how much they enjoyed it, so I thought I would give it a try. It did not take long for me to realize that I had found my path. I currently work at Regions Hospital in St Paul, MN as a CNA. I have been in this position for the past year and a half. Before that, I worked at a nursing home as the lead CNA for about five years, while also doing home care for a gentleman with cerebral palsy. One of the many things that bring me joy is helping people, and improving their quality of life, in every way possible. This is the main reason I am striving to become a registered nurse. I know I can provide even more quality care and make a bigger impact as a nurse. While in high school, I earned my CNA license, sang in the honors choir, was on the varsity cheerleading squad, worked at a fast-food restaurant, and started working as a CNA, all while maintaining my status on the B-Honor Roll. I am now a 23-year-old nursing student, the youngest child of a single mother, and have guardianship of my two half siblings (from my father’s side). I understand the importance of a good education. I watched my mother work hard, and sometimes two jobs just to pay the bills. She taught us the importance of working hard, never giving up, pursing an education, and always maintaining one’s integrity. Working for a small, private nursing home as the lead CNA, I not only gained experience, but also had the pleasure of getting to know many wonderful residents and their families on a more personal level. My years at Afton Care brought some days that were better than others, as stress comes with the job. I was not only caring for residents, but also interviewing potential new caregivers, assisting in recordkeeping, and training new hires. I also attended funeral services and supported family members when a resident passed. It was not easy, but it was rewarding. However, the largest impact came from one of the residents in particular. This resident has left me with some wonderful memories and always helped me remember why I went into the nursing profession in the first place. This wonderful woman was over 100 years old and completely blind. She was an example to us all about the power and value of living life to its fullest, remaining positive, and showing us how wonderful it is to honor and value our elders. She didn’t have the best memory but somehow always remembered my name. When I would come in for my shift, I would greet her, and she would greet me back by saying, “Oh, Amber, it is so good to see you,” even though she couldn’t see. There was something powerful in that connection that solidified my passion for continuing in the healthcare profession, and it has given me continuous motivation as I work towards becoming a registered nurse.