user profile avatar

Anya Smith

775

Bold Points

1x

Finalist

Bio

I am currently a junior pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree at Howard University. My objective is to obtain my registered nurse license and subsequently pursue a Master of Science in Nursing.

Education

Howard University

Bachelor's degree program
2021 - 2023
  • Majors:
    • Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
  • Minors:
    • Public Health
  • GPA:
    3.5

Stuart W Cramer High

High School
2018 - 2021
  • Majors:
    • Nursing Practice
    • Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
    • Pediatric Nurse/Nursing
  • GPA:
    4

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

  • Graduate schools of interest:

  • Transfer schools of interest:

  • Majors of interest:

    • Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Nursing

    • Dream career goals:

      Nurse Practitioner

    • Crew Member

      McDonalds
      2020 – Present4 years

    Public services

    • Volunteering

      S.O.M.E — Donations Volunteer
      2023 – Present
    • Volunteering

      Samaritan's Feet — Volunteer
      2017 – 2017
    • Volunteering

      Martha's Table — Volunteer
      2023 – Present
    CATALYSTS Scholarship
    I am currently a junior at Howard University pursuing a degree in nursing. A social issue I am deeply passionate about is the healthcare disparities faced by Black people, particularly Black women and children. My decision to pursue nursing is deeply rooted in a lifelong passion for healthcare and an unwavering commitment to serving others, and addressing these disparities is central to my career goals. My primary motivation for becoming a nurse is to advocate for Black people, especially Black women and children. This commitment was strengthened as I pursued a minor in maternal and child health, which opened my eyes to the significant disparities my community faces in healthcare. The lack of attention given to Black patients became evident during high school lessons where illnesses and symptoms were predominantly discussed in the context of white patients. This disparity underscored the importance of cultural competency in healthcare, a principle I deeply value. I firmly believe that culturally sensitive healthcare practices can drastically reduce these disparities and improve health outcomes for marginalized communities. The disparities in healthcare access and quality for Black people, particularly Black women and children, are well-documented. These issues manifest in higher rates of maternal mortality, lower access to prenatal care, and poorer health outcomes overall. Understanding these disparities has fueled my determination to become a nurse who not only provides excellent care but also serves as an advocate for equity in healthcare. I want to be a nurse who understands the cultural contexts of my patients and uses that understanding to provide more effective and compassionate care. In my career, I will advocate for and participate in training programs that enhance cultural competency among healthcare providers. This will help ensure that healthcare professionals are equipped to understand and respect the diverse backgrounds of their patients. I also plan to continue engaging in community outreach, specifically to educate marginalized communities about healthcare resources, preventive care, and healthy lifestyle choices. Empowering individuals with knowledge can lead to better health outcomes and reduced disparities. My journey in nursing is not just a career choice but a dedication to making a meaningful impact in the lives of those who need it most. Addressing healthcare disparities faced by Black people, particularly Black women and children, is a social issue I am passionate about and will be a central focus of my career as a nurse. Through my advocacy for cultural competency training and community outreach, I plan to contribute to a more equitable healthcare system.
    Brian Leahy Memorial Scholarship
    My decision to pursue nursing is deeply rooted in a lifelong passion for healthcare and an unwavering commitment to serving others. Nursing is a field I’ve been passionate about since childhood, inspired by a desire to make a tangible difference in people's lives through healing and support. From a young age, the prospect of working in healthcare fascinated me. The ability to heal and support people seemed both a noble and deeply fulfilling career path. This interest was further nurtured through various experiences during my childhood. Family members who worked in healthcare shared their stories, and I was captivated by the impact they had on their patients' lives. In high school, my interest was solidified through health courses that introduced me to various medical professions. Among them, nursing stood out because of its unique combination of versatility and flexibility. Nurses can work in various specialties and settings, from hospitals and clinics to schools and community centers, making it a dynamic and impactful career path. My primary motivation for becoming a nurse is to advocate for Black people, especially Black women and children. This commitment was strengthened as I pursued a minor in maternal and child health, which opened my eyes to the significant disparities my community faces in healthcare. The lack of attention given to Black patients became evident during high school lessons where illnesses and symptoms were predominantly discussed in the context of white patients. This disparity underscored the importance of cultural competency in healthcare, a principle I deeply value. I firmly believe that culturally sensitive healthcare practices can drastically reduce these disparities and improve health outcomes for marginalized communities. The disparities in healthcare access and quality for Black people, particularly Black women and children, are well-documented. These issues manifest in higher rates of maternal mortality, lower access to prenatal care, and poorer health outcomes overall. Understanding these disparities has fueled my determination to become a nurse who not only provides excellent care but also serves as an advocate for equity in healthcare. I want to be a nurse who understands the cultural contexts of my patients and uses that understanding to provide more effective and compassionate care. As a nurse, my goal is to build relationships of professional intimacy with patients, advocating tirelessly for their rights and well-being. This aspiration is a driving force behind my decision to become a nurse. I am committed to forming meaningful connections with my patients, ensuring they feel seen, heard, and respected. I believe that advocacy in nursing goes beyond individual patient care; it involves addressing systemic issues within the healthcare system that contribute to disparities and working towards broader changes that promote equity and justice. In summary, my decision to pursue nursing is deeply rooted in a lifelong passion for healthcare and a commitment to serving others. My journey in nursing is not just a career choice but a dedication to making a meaningful impact in the lives of those who need it most.
    Delories Thompson Scholarship
    My decision to pursue nursing is deeply rooted in a lifelong passion for healthcare and an unwavering commitment to serving others. Nursing is a field I’ve been passionate about since childhood, inspired by a desire to make a tangible difference in people's lives through healing and support. This passion has shaped my future goals and my understanding of what it means to be Black in the healthcare field. Being Black to me means carrying the strength and resilience of those who came before me while striving for progress and equity in all aspects of life. It means being aware of the unique challenges faced by Black communities and using my skills and knowledge to uplift and support these communities. In my future career as a nurse, I am dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the lives of those who need it most, particularly within the Black community. This involves not only providing excellent care but also challenging and changing the systems that perpetuate health disparities. I chose to attend an HBCU because I believe their nursing program will equip me with all the necessary tools to care for our multicultural society. The program will expose me to diverse environments, and I will be able to learn from and collaborate with a supportive community. I also strongly believe in community. I thrive in spaces where I feel supported. My experience here so far has been amazing and it's inspirational to see my peers excel in every way.
    Juanita Robinson English Book Scholarship
    A social issue I am deeply passionate about is the healthcare disparities faced by Black people, particularly Black women and children. My decision to pursue nursing is deeply rooted in a lifelong passion for healthcare and an unwavering commitment to serving others, and addressing these disparities is central to my career goals. My primary motivation for becoming a nurse is to advocate for Black people, especially Black women and children. This commitment was strengthened as I pursued a minor in maternal and child health, which opened my eyes to the significant disparities my community faces in healthcare. The lack of attention given to Black patients became evident during high school lessons where illnesses and symptoms were predominantly discussed in the context of white patients. This disparity underscored the importance of cultural competency in healthcare, a principle I deeply value. I firmly believe that culturally sensitive healthcare practices can drastically reduce these disparities and improve health outcomes for marginalized communities. The disparities in healthcare access and quality for Black people, particularly Black women and children, are well-documented. These issues manifest in higher rates of maternal mortality, lower access to prenatal care, and poorer health outcomes overall. Understanding these disparities has fueled my determination to become a nurse who not only provides excellent care but also serves as an advocate for equity in healthcare. I want to be a nurse who understands the cultural contexts of my patients and uses that understanding to provide more effective and compassionate care. In my career, I will advocate for and participate in training programs that enhance cultural competency among healthcare providers. This will help ensure that healthcare professionals are equipped to understand and respect the diverse backgrounds of their patients. I also plan to continue engaging in community outreach, specifically to educate marginalized communities about healthcare resources, preventive care, and healthy lifestyle choices. Empowering individuals with knowledge can lead to better health outcomes and reduced disparities. My journey in nursing is not just a career choice but a dedication to making a meaningful impact in the lives of those who need it most. Addressing healthcare disparities faced by Black people, particularly Black women and children, is a social issue I am passionate about and will be a central focus of my career as a nurse. Through my advocacy for cultural competency training and community outreach, I plan to contribute to a more equitable healthcare system.
    Deborah Stevens Pediatric Nursing Scholarship
    My decision to pursue nursing is deeply rooted in a lifelong passion for healthcare and an unwavering commitment to serving others. Nursing is a field I’ve been passionate about since childhood, inspired by a desire to make a tangible difference in people's lives through healing and support. From a young age, the prospect of working in healthcare fascinated me. The ability to heal and support people seemed both a noble and deeply fulfilling career path. This interest was further nurtured through various experiences during my childhood. Family members who worked in healthcare shared their stories, and I was captivated by the impact they had on their patients' lives. In high school, my interest was solidified through health courses that introduced me to various medical professions. Among them, nursing stood out because of its unique combination of versatility and flexibility. Nurses can work in various specialties and settings, from hospitals and clinics to schools and community centers, making it a dynamic and impactful career path. My primary motivation for becoming a nurse is to advocate for Black people, especially Black women and children. This commitment was strengthened as I pursued a minor in maternal and child health, which opened my eyes to the significant disparities my community faces in healthcare. The lack of attention given to Black patients became evident during high school lessons where illnesses and symptoms were predominantly discussed in the context of white patients. This disparity underscored the importance of cultural competency in healthcare, a principle I deeply value. I firmly believe that culturally sensitive healthcare practices can drastically reduce these disparities and improve health outcomes for marginalized communities. The disparities in healthcare access and quality for Black people, particularly Black women and children, are well-documented. These issues manifest in higher rates of maternal mortality, lower access to prenatal care, and poorer health outcomes overall. Understanding these disparities has fueled my determination to become a nurse who not only provides excellent care but also serves as an advocate for equity in healthcare. I want to be a nurse who understands the cultural contexts of my patients and uses that understanding to provide more effective and compassionate care. In addition to my broader commitment to healthcare, I am particularly drawn to pediatric nursing. The vulnerability and resilience of children inspire me, and I am passionate about making a positive impact during their formative years. Pediatric nursing offers the unique opportunity to influence young lives, providing care and support that can shape their future health and well-being. Working with children requires a blend of empathy, patience, and specialized knowledge, all of which I am eager to develop and apply in my practice. I want to pursue pediatric nursing because I believe in the importance of early intervention and preventive care. By addressing health issues in childhood, we can set the foundation for healthier adult lives. Furthermore, children often rely on their caregivers to advocate for their health needs, and I am committed to being that advocate, especially for those from underserved communities. My experiences and education have prepared me to meet these challenges with compassion and competence.
    Community Health Ambassador Scholarship for Nursing Students
    My decision to pursue nursing is deeply rooted in a lifelong passion for healthcare and an unwavering commitment to serving others. Nursing is a field I’ve been passionate about since childhood, inspired by a desire to make a tangible difference in people's lives through healing and support. From a young age, the prospect of working in healthcare fascinated me. The ability to heal and support people seemed both a noble and deeply fulfilling career path. This interest was further nurtured through various experiences during my childhood. Family members who worked in healthcare shared their stories, and I was captivated by the impact they had on their patients' lives. In high school, my interest was solidified through health courses that introduced me to various medical professions. Among them, nursing stood out because of its unique combination of versatility and flexibility. Nurses can work in various specialties and settings, from hospitals and clinics to schools and community centers, making it a dynamic and impactful career path. My primary motivation for becoming a nurse is to advocate for Black people, especially Black women and children. This commitment was strengthened as I pursued a minor in maternal and child health, which opened my eyes to the significant disparities my community faces in healthcare. The lack of attention given to Black patients became evident during high school lessons where illnesses and symptoms were predominantly discussed in the context of white patients. This disparity underscored the importance of cultural competency in healthcare, a principle I deeply value. I firmly believe that culturally sensitive healthcare practices can drastically reduce these disparities and improve health outcomes for marginalized communities. The disparities in healthcare access and quality for Black people, particularly Black women and children, are well-documented. These issues manifest in higher rates of maternal mortality, lower access to prenatal care, and poorer health outcomes overall. Understanding these disparities has fueled my determination to become a nurse who not only provides excellent care but also serves as an advocate for equity in healthcare. I want to be a nurse who understands the cultural contexts of my patients and uses that understanding to provide more effective and compassionate care. As a nurse, my goal is to build relationships of professional intimacy with patients, advocating tirelessly for their rights and well-being. This aspiration is a driving force behind my decision to become a nurse. I am committed to forming meaningful connections with my patients, ensuring they feel seen, heard, and respected. I believe that advocacy in nursing goes beyond individual patient care; it involves addressing systemic issues within the healthcare system that contribute to disparities and working towards broader changes that promote equity and justice. In summary, my decision to pursue nursing is deeply rooted in a lifelong passion for healthcare and a commitment to serving others. My journey in nursing is not just a career choice but a dedication to making a meaningful impact in the lives of those who need it most.
    Wieland Nurse Appreciation Scholarship
    My decision to pursue nursing is deeply rooted in a lifelong passion for healthcare and an unwavering commitment to serving others. Nursing is a field I’ve been passionate about since childhood, inspired by a desire to make a tangible difference in people's lives through healing and support. From a young age, the prospect of working in healthcare fascinated me. The ability to heal and support people seemed both a noble and deeply fulfilling career path. This interest was further nurtured through various experiences during my childhood. Family members who worked in healthcare shared their stories, and I was captivated by the impact they had on their patients' lives. In high school, my interest was solidified through health courses that introduced me to various medical professions. Among them, nursing stood out because of its unique combination of versatility and flexibility. Nurses can work in various specialties and settings, from hospitals and clinics to schools and community centers, making it a dynamic and impactful career path. My primary motivation for becoming a nurse is to advocate for Black people, especially Black women and children. This commitment was strengthened as I pursued a minor in maternal and child health, which opened my eyes to the significant disparities my community faces in healthcare. The lack of attention given to Black patients became evident during high school lessons where illnesses and symptoms were predominantly discussed in the context of white patients. This disparity underscored the importance of cultural competency in healthcare, a principle I deeply value. I firmly believe that culturally sensitive healthcare practices can drastically reduce these disparities and improve health outcomes for marginalized communities. The disparities in healthcare access and quality for Black people, particularly Black women and children, are well-documented. These issues manifest in higher rates of maternal mortality, lower access to prenatal care, and poorer health outcomes overall. Understanding these disparities has fueled my determination to become a nurse who not only provides excellent care but also serves as an advocate for equity in healthcare. I want to be a nurse who understands the cultural contexts of my patients and uses that understanding to provide more effective and compassionate care. As a nurse, my goal is to build relationships of professional intimacy with patients, advocating tirelessly for their rights and well-being. This aspiration is a driving force behind my decision to become a nurse. I am committed to forming meaningful connections with my patients, ensuring they feel seen, heard, and respected. I believe that advocacy in nursing goes beyond individual patient care; it involves addressing systemic issues within the healthcare system that contribute to disparities and working towards broader changes that promote equity and justice. In summary, my decision to pursue nursing is deeply rooted in a lifelong passion for healthcare and a commitment to serving others. My journey in nursing is not just a career choice but a dedication to making a meaningful impact in the lives of those who need it most.
    Eric Maurice Brandon Memorial Scholarship
    My decision to pursue nursing is deeply rooted in a lifelong passion for healthcare and an unwavering commitment to serving others. Nursing is a field I’ve been passionate about since childhood, inspired by a desire to make a tangible difference in people's lives through healing and support. From a young age, the prospect of working in healthcare fascinated me. The ability to heal and support people seemed both a noble and deeply fulfilling career path. This interest was further nurtured through various experiences during my childhood. Family members who worked in healthcare shared their stories, and I was captivated by the impact they had on their patients' lives. In high school, my interest was solidified through health courses that introduced me to various medical professions. Among them, nursing stood out because of its unique combination of versatility and flexibility. Nurses can work in various specialties and settings, from hospitals and clinics to schools and community centers, making it a dynamic and impactful career path. My primary motivation for becoming a nurse is to advocate for Black people, especially Black women and children. This commitment was strengthened as I pursued a minor in maternal and child health, which opened my eyes to the significant disparities my community faces in healthcare. The lack of attention given to Black patients became evident during high school lessons where illnesses and symptoms were predominantly discussed in the context of white patients. This disparity underscored the importance of cultural competency in healthcare, a principle I deeply value. I firmly believe that culturally sensitive healthcare practices can drastically reduce these disparities and improve health outcomes for marginalized communities. The disparities in healthcare access and quality for Black people, particularly Black women and children, are well-documented. These issues manifest in higher rates of maternal mortality, lower access to prenatal care, and poorer health outcomes overall. Understanding these disparities has fueled my determination to become a nurse who not only provides excellent care but also serves as an advocate for equity in healthcare. I want to be a nurse who understands the cultural contexts of my patients and uses that understanding to provide more effective and compassionate care. As a nurse, my goal is to build relationships of professional intimacy with patients, advocating tirelessly for their rights and well-being. This aspiration is a driving force behind my decision to become a nurse. I am committed to forming meaningful connections with my patients, ensuring they feel seen, heard, and respected. I believe that advocacy in nursing goes beyond individual patient care; it involves addressing systemic issues within the healthcare system that contribute to disparities and working towards broader changes that promote equity and justice. In summary, my decision to pursue nursing is deeply rooted in a lifelong passion for healthcare and a commitment to serving others. My journey in nursing is not just a career choice but a dedication to making a meaningful impact in the lives of those who need it most.
    Zamora Borose Goodwill Scholarship
    My goal is to become a registered nurse and then pursue a master's degree to become a nurse practitioner. My decision to pursue nursing is deeply rooted in a lifelong passion for healthcare and an unwavering commitment to serving others. Nursing is a field I’ve been passionate about since childhood, inspired by a desire to make a tangible difference in people's lives through healing and support. From a young age, the prospect of working in healthcare fascinated me. The ability to heal and support people seemed both a noble and deeply fulfilling career path. This interest was further nurtured through various experiences during my childhood. Family members who worked in healthcare shared their stories, and I was captivated by the impact they had on their patients' lives. In high school, my interest was solidified through health courses that introduced me to various medical professions. Among them, nursing stood out because of its unique combination of versatility and flexibility. Nurses can work in various specialties and settings, from hospitals and clinics to schools and community centers, making it a dynamic and impactful career path. My primary motivation for becoming a nurse is to advocate for Black people, especially Black women and children. This commitment was strengthened as I pursued a minor in maternal and child health, which opened my eyes to the significant disparities my community faces in healthcare. The lack of attention given to Black patients became evident during high school lessons where illnesses and symptoms were predominantly discussed in the context of white patients. This disparity underscored the importance of cultural competency in healthcare, a principle I deeply value. I firmly believe that culturally sensitive healthcare practices can drastically reduce these disparities and improve health outcomes for marginalized communities. The disparities in healthcare access and quality for Black people, particularly Black women and children, are well-documented. These issues manifest in higher rates of maternal mortality, lower access to prenatal care, and poorer health outcomes overall. Understanding these disparities has fueled my determination to become a nurse who not only provides excellent care but also serves as an advocate for equity in healthcare. I want to be a nurse who understands the cultural contexts of my patients and uses that understanding to provide more effective and compassionate care. As a nurse, my goal is to build relationships of professional intimacy with patients, advocating tirelessly for their rights and well-being. This aspiration is a driving force behind my decision to become a nurse. I am committed to forming meaningful connections with my patients, ensuring they feel seen, heard, and respected. I believe that advocacy in nursing goes beyond individual patient care; it involves addressing systemic issues within the healthcare system that contribute to disparities and working towards broader changes that promote equity and justice. In summary, my decision to pursue nursing is deeply rooted in a lifelong passion for healthcare and a commitment to serving others. My journey in nursing is not just a career choice but a dedication to making a meaningful impact in the lives of those who need it most.
    John Young 'Pursue Your Passion' Scholarship
    My decision to pursue nursing is deeply rooted in a lifelong passion for healthcare and an unwavering commitment to serving others. Nursing is a field I’ve been passionate about since childhood, inspired by a desire to make a tangible difference in people's lives through healing and support. From a young age, the prospect of working in healthcare fascinated me. The ability to heal and support people seemed both a noble and deeply fulfilling career path. This interest was further nurtured through various experiences during my childhood. Family members who worked in healthcare shared their stories, and I was captivated by the impact they had on their patients' lives. In high school, my interest was solidified through health courses that introduced me to various medical professions. Among them, nursing stood out because of its unique combination of versatility and flexibility. Nurses can work in various specialties and settings, from hospitals and clinics to schools and community centers, making it a dynamic and impactful career path. My primary motivation for becoming a nurse is to advocate for Black people, especially Black women and children. This commitment was strengthened as I pursued a minor in maternal and child health, which opened my eyes to the significant disparities my community faces in healthcare. The lack of attention given to Black patients became evident during high school lessons where illnesses and symptoms were predominantly discussed in the context of white patients. This disparity underscored the importance of cultural competency in healthcare, a principle I deeply value. I firmly believe that culturally sensitive healthcare practices can drastically reduce these disparities and improve health outcomes for marginalized communities. The disparities in healthcare access and quality for Black people, particularly Black women and children, are well-documented. These issues manifest in higher rates of maternal mortality, lower access to prenatal care, and poorer health outcomes overall. Understanding these disparities has fueled my determination to become a nurse who not only provides excellent care but also serves as an advocate for equity in healthcare. I want to be a nurse who understands the cultural contexts of my patients and uses that understanding to provide more effective and compassionate care. As a nurse, my goal is to build relationships of professional intimacy with patients, advocating tirelessly for their rights and well-being. This aspiration is a driving force behind my decision to become a nurse. I am committed to forming meaningful connections with my patients, ensuring they feel seen, heard, and respected. I believe that advocacy in nursing goes beyond individual patient care; it involves addressing systemic issues within the healthcare system that contribute to disparities and working towards broader changes that promote equity and justice. In summary, my decision to pursue nursing is deeply rooted in a lifelong passion for healthcare and a commitment to serving others. My journey in nursing is not just a career choice but a dedication to making a meaningful impact in the lives of those who need it most.