My name is Annallese Oswald, and I am a dedicated single mother and nursing student with a deep passion for helping others. Currently enrolled in nursing school, I am committed to learning and growing in a field that aligns with my core values of compassion, service, and integrity. Balancing my education with the responsibilities of raising my child has strengthened my resilience and adaptability—qualities that I believe will be invaluable in my future career as a nurse. The challenges I face as a single parent have only fueled my determination to succeed and serve as a role model for my child, showing them that perseverance and hard work can overcome any obstacle. One of my greatest aspirations is to continue my education and become a nurse practitioner, specializing in functional medicine. I am particularly drawn to the holistic approach of functional medicine, which emphasizes treating the whole person rather than just addressing symptoms. This approach aligns with my passion for nutrition and psychology, two areas I believe are fundamental to achieving and maintaining optimal health. My interest in functional medicine began with my own exploration of nutrition as a tool for health improvement, and it deepened as I learned more about the psychological aspects of patient care in my nursing studies. I dream of attending Stanford University, inspired by the work of educators like Christopher Gardner, PhD, whose lecture "Is a Calorie a Calorie? Processed Food, Experiment Gone Wrong" has deeply influenced my understanding of nutrition, and Professor Robert Sapolsky, whose psychology lectures have sparked my interest in the human mind. These lectures have not only expanded my knowledge but also inspired me to think critically about the ways in which we approach health and wellness. The opportunity to learn from such distinguished educators would be a tremendous honor and would allow me to further develop my skills and knowledge in a supportive and intellectually stimulating environment. My passion for these subjects drives me to help others on their journey to a better life. I believe that by combining my knowledge of nutrition, psychology, and nursing, I can make a significant impact on the health and well-being of my future patients. Running my own business has taught me the importance of perseverance, time management, and creativity, all of which I bring to my academic and professional pursuits. As a business owner, I have learned to be resourceful and to approach challenges with a problem-solving mindset. These experiences have prepared me to handle the complexities of a nursing career, where I will need to navigate patient care, medical challenges, and the ever-changing landscape of healthcare. Receiving this scholarship would be a tremendous honor and a significant step toward achieving my dreams. It would provide the financial stability I need to focus on my studies and continue to grow as a future nurse and caregiver. The financial burden of tuition, supplies, and childcare is substantial, and this scholarship would greatly alleviate some of that pressure, allowing me to dedicate more time and energy to my education. I am eager to contribute my talents, passion, and determination to the nursing profession, and I am committed to using my education to make a positive difference in the lives of others. Thank you for considering my application. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to share my story with you, and I hope that you will see the potential in me to become a compassionate and skilled nurse practitioner. With your support, I am confident that I can achieve my goals and make a meaningful impact in the world of healthcare. Best regards, Annallese Oswald