Greetings, everyone! My name is Ariana Davis. I am a 19-year-old Pre-Nursing student at the illustrious North Carolina A&T State University hailing from Prince George’s County, Maryland. Taking care of others has always come naturally to me as the oldest sibling. I've known since I was little that caring for people would be a big part of my future profession. When I began my highschool journey, I opted to major in a biology STEM program. Though at times the work and dedication has been challenging, I have been fortunate to experience first-hand opportunities working in the medical field. During the summer of 2022, I volunteered with the American Red Cross at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. I assisted in the hematology and oncology clinic, where I worked first-hand with nurses, doctors, and patients that were diagnosed with cancer. This opportunity fueled my passion for pursuing a career in nursing. I was super excited to volunteer in one of the most prominent medical centers in the United States and work with real patients. In the clinic, I would regularly pull patients’ charts, sanitize areas for patients, provide the patients with food, and take blood samples to the laboratory. One day a week, myself and the other volunteers would have medical awareness training. I gained knowledge on basic medical skills such as how to take vitals, how to perform CPR properly, and how to pack gauze in an open wound. The doctors were very nice to me and the patients; they would always thank me for my service and assisting in the clinic. After observing how the nurses and doctors interacted with patients, I learned how to be more empathetic and caring while also performing the duties of my job. I hope to apply these same principles in my future nursing career. The nursing staff showed me that something as simple as explaining procedures and with a welcoming tone can change a patient’s outlook and mood. The patients visiting the clinic were all experiencing a range of emotions due to their sickness. Often it is impossible to relate, but it's crucial to keep an open mind and heart. I learned that a nurse’s primary responsibility is to listen to and meet the needs of a patient. Overall, my experience at Walter Reed taught me how to provide quality care, improve my communication skills, and help me understand the importance of having compassion in the medical field. Becoming a nurse will afford me the opportunity to serve my community in many ways, to include educating others about health disparities that affect black people at an alarming rate compared to other ethnicities. As a people, we all know someone that has neglected the importance of regular doctor visits and healthcare screenings. Cultivating healthcare equity is a necessity in the black community. The pandemic magnified the limited resources available to the underserved black communities in treating underlying health conditions. As a result, black people were disproportionately affected more than other ethnicities. I would like to use my education, profession, and love for helping others to volunteer with health and wellness initiatives, clinics in unserved communities, and activism. I will be able to fulfill a lifelong dream of mine by providing assistance to marginalized communities. For me, success goes beyond just getting a degree and gaining money; it also involves using the knowledge I've acquired throughout my time in studying to the betterment of others.

Becoming a nurse will afford me the opportunity to serve my community in many ways, to include educating others about health disparities that affect black people at an alarming rate compared to other ethnicities. As a people, we all know someone that has neglected the importance of regular doctor visits and healthcare screenings. Cultivating healthcare equity is a necessity in the black community. The pandemic magnified the limited resources available to the underserved black communities in treating underlying health conditions. As a result, black people were disproportionately affected more than other ethnicities. I would like to use my education, profession, and love for helping others to volunteer with health and wellness initiatives, clinics in unserved communities, and activism. Being a student at the esteemed North Carolina A&T State University, I am surrounded by a diverse range of individuals from different cultures and backgrounds. I now know that not everyone is fortunate enough to get the necessary medical care they need. I will be able to fulfill a lifelong dream of mine by providing assistance to marginalized communities. For me, success goes beyond just getting a degree and gaining money; it also involves using the knowledge I've acquired throughout my time in studying to the betterment of others.

Greetings, everyone! My name is Ariana Davis. I am a 19-year-old Pre-Nursing student at the illustrious North Carolina A&T State University hailing from Prince George’s County, Maryland. Taking care of others has always come naturally to me as the oldest sibling. I've known since I was little that caring for people would be a big part of my future profession. When I began my highschool journey, I opted to major in a biology STEM program. Though at times the work and dedication has been challenging, I have been fortunate to experience first-hand opportunities working in the medical field. During the summer of 2022, I volunteered with the American Red Cross at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. I assisted in the hematology and oncology clinic, where I worked first-hand with nurses, doctors, and patients that were diagnosed with cancer. This opportunity fueled my passion for pursuing a career in nursing. I was super excited to volunteer in one of the most prominent medical centers in the United States and work with real patients. In the clinic, I would regularly pull patients’ charts, sanitize areas for patients, provide the patients with food, and take blood samples to the laboratory. One day a week, myself and the other volunteers would have medical awareness training. I gained knowledge on basic medical skills such as how to take vitals, how to perform CPR properly, and how to pack gauze in an open wound. The doctors were very nice to me and the patients; they would always thank me for my service and assisting in the clinic. After observing how the nurses and doctors interacted with patients, I learned how to be more empathetic and caring while also performing the duties of my job. I hope to apply these same principles in my future nursing career. The nursing staff showed me that something as simple as explaining procedures and with a welcoming tone can change a patient’s outlook and mood. The patients visiting the clinic were all experiencing a range of emotions due to their sickness. Often it is impossible to relate, but it's crucial to keep an open mind and heart. I learned that a nurse’s primary responsibility is to listen to and meet the needs of a patient. Overall, my experience at Walter Reed taught me how to provide quality care, improve my communication skills, and help me understand the importance of having compassion in the medical field. Becoming a nurse will afford me the opportunity to serve my community in many ways, to include educating others about health disparities that affect black people at an alarming rate compared to other ethnicities. As a people, we all know someone that has neglected the importance of regular doctor visits and healthcare screenings. Cultivating healthcare equity is a necessity in the black community. The pandemic magnified the limited resources available to the underserved black communities in treating underlying health conditions. As a result, black people were disproportionately affected more than other ethnicities. I would like to use my education, profession, and love for helping others to volunteer with health and wellness initiatives, clinics in unserved communities, and activism. I will be able to fulfill a lifelong dream of mine by providing assistance to marginalized communities. For me, success goes beyond just getting a degree and gaining money; it also involves using the knowledge I've acquired throughout my time in studying to the betterment of others.

Greetings, everyone! My name is Ariana Davis. I am a 19-year-old Pre-Nursing student at the illustrious North Carolina A&T State University hailing from Prince George’s County, Maryland. Taking care of others has always come naturally to me as the oldest sibling. I've known since I was little that caring for people would be a big part of my future profession. When I began my highschool journey, I opted to major in a biology STEM program. Though at times the work and dedication has been challenging, I have been fortunate to experience first-hand opportunities working in the medical field. During the summer of 2022, I volunteered with the American Red Cross at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. I assisted in the hematology and oncology clinic, where I worked first-hand with nurses, doctors, and patients that were diagnosed with cancer. This opportunity fueled my passion for pursuing a career in nursing. I was super excited to volunteer in one of the most prominent medical centers in the United States and work with real patients. In the clinic, I would regularly pull patients’ charts, sanitize areas for patients, provide the patients with food, and take blood samples to the laboratory. One day a week, myself and the other volunteers would have medical awareness training. I gained knowledge on basic medical skills such as how to take vitals, how to perform CPR properly, and how to pack gauze in an open wound. The doctors were very nice to me and the patients; they would always thank me for my service and assisting in the clinic. After observing how the nurses and doctors interacted with patients, I learned how to be more empathetic and caring while also performing the duties of my job. I hope to apply these same principles in my future nursing career. The nursing staff showed me that something as simple as explaining procedures and with a welcoming tone can change a patient’s outlook and mood. The patients visiting the clinic were all experiencing a range of emotions due to their sickness. Often it is impossible to relate, but it's crucial to keep an open mind and heart. I learned that a nurse’s primary responsibility is to listen to and meet the needs of a patient. Overall, my experience at Walter Reed taught me how to provide quality care, improve my communication skills, and help me understand the importance of having compassion in the medical field. Becoming a nurse will afford me the opportunity to serve my community in many ways, to include educating others about health disparities that affect black people at an alarming rate compared to other ethnicities. As a people, we all know someone that has neglected the importance of regular doctor visits and healthcare screenings. Cultivating healthcare equity is a necessity in the black community. The pandemic magnified the limited resources available to the underserved black communities in treating underlying health conditions. As a result, black people were disproportionately affected more than other ethnicities. I would like to use my education, profession, and love for helping others to volunteer with health and wellness initiatives, clinics in unserved communities, and activism. I will be able to fulfill a lifelong dream of mine by providing assistance to marginalized communities. For me, success goes beyond just getting a degree and gaining money; it also involves using the knowledge I've acquired throughout my time in studying to the betterment of others.

Greetings, everyone! My name is Ariana Davis. I am a 19-year-old Pre-Nursing student at the illustrious North Carolina A&T State University hailing from Prince George’s County, Maryland. Taking care of others has always come naturally to me as the oldest sibling. I've known since I was little that caring for people would be a big part of my future profession. When I began my highschool journey, I opted to major in a biology STEM program. Though at times the work and dedication has been challenging, I have been fortunate to experience first-hand opportunities working in the medical field. During the summer of 2022, I volunteered with the American Red Cross at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. I assisted in the hematology and oncology clinic, where I worked first-hand with nurses, doctors, and patients that were diagnosed with cancer. This opportunity fueled my passion for pursuing a career in nursing. I was super excited to volunteer in one of the most prominent medical centers in the United States and work with real patients. In the clinic, I would regularly pull patients’ charts, sanitize areas for patients, provide the patients with food, and take blood samples to the laboratory. One day a week, myself and the other volunteers would have medical awareness training. I gained knowledge on basic medical skills such as how to take vitals, how to perform CPR properly, and how to pack gauze in an open wound. The doctors were very nice to me and the patients; they would always thank me for my service and assisting in the clinic. After observing how the nurses and doctors interacted with patients, I learned how to be more empathetic and caring while also performing the duties of my job. I hope to apply these same principles in my future nursing career. The nursing staff showed me that something as simple as explaining procedures and with a welcoming tone can change a patient’s outlook and mood. The patients visiting the clinic were all experiencing a range of emotions due to their sickness. Often it is impossible to relate, but it's crucial to keep an open mind and heart. I learned that a nurse’s primary responsibility is to listen to and meet the needs of a patient. Overall, my experience at Walter Reed taught me how to provide quality care, improve my communication skills, and help me understand the importance of having compassion in the medical field. Becoming a nurse will afford me the opportunity to serve my community in many ways, to include educating others about health disparities that affect black people at an alarming rate compared to other ethnicities. As a people, we all know someone that has neglected the importance of regular doctor visits and healthcare screenings. Cultivating healthcare equity is a necessity in the black community. The pandemic magnified the limited resources available to the underserved black communities in treating underlying health conditions. As a result, black people were disproportionately affected more than other ethnicities. I would like to use my education, profession, and love for helping others to volunteer with health and wellness initiatives, clinics in unserved communities, and activism. I will be able to fulfill a lifelong dream of mine by providing assistance to marginalized communities. For me, success goes beyond just getting a degree and gaining money; it also involves using the knowledge I've acquired throughout my time in studying to the betterment of others.

Greetings, everyone! My name is Ariana Davis. I am a 19-year-old Pre-Nursing student at the illustrious North Carolina A&T State University hailing from Prince George’s County, Maryland. Taking care of others has always come naturally to me as the oldest sibling. I've known since I was little that caring for people would be a big part of my future profession. When I began my highschool journey, I opted to major in a biology STEM program. Though at times the work and dedication has been challenging, I have been fortunate to experience first-hand opportunities working in the medical field. During the summer of 2022, I volunteered with the American Red Cross at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. I assisted in the hematology and oncology clinic, where I worked first-hand with nurses, doctors, and patients that were diagnosed with cancer. This opportunity fueled my passion for pursuing a career in nursing. I was super excited to volunteer in one of the most prominent medical centers in the United States and work with real patients. In the clinic, I would regularly pull patients’ charts, sanitize areas for patients, provide the patients with food, and take blood samples to the laboratory. One day a week, myself and the other volunteers would have medical awareness training. I gained knowledge on basic medical skills such as how to take vitals, how to perform CPR properly, and how to pack gauze in an open wound. The doctors were very nice to me and the patients; they would always thank me for my service and assisting in the clinic. After observing how the nurses and doctors interacted with patients, I learned how to be more empathetic and caring while also performing the duties of my job. I hope to apply these same principles in my future nursing career. The nursing staff showed me that something as simple as explaining procedures and with a welcoming tone can change a patient’s outlook and mood. The patients visiting the clinic were all experiencing a range of emotions due to their sickness. Often it is impossible to relate, but it's crucial to keep an open mind and heart. I learned that a nurse’s primary responsibility is to listen to and meet the needs of a patient. Overall, my experience at Walter Reed taught me how to provide quality care, improve my communication skills, and help me understand the importance of having compassion in the medical field. Becoming a nurse will afford me the opportunity to serve my community in many ways, to include educating others about health disparities that affect black people at an alarming rate compared to other ethnicities. As a people, we all know someone that has neglected the importance of regular doctor visits and healthcare screenings. Cultivating healthcare equity is a necessity in the black community. The pandemic magnified the limited resources available to the underserved black communities in treating underlying health conditions. As a result, black people were disproportionately affected more than other ethnicities. I would like to use my education, profession, and love for helping others to volunteer with health and wellness initiatives, clinics in unserved communities, and activism. I will be able to fulfill a lifelong dream of mine by providing assistance to marginalized communities. For me, success goes beyond just getting a degree and gaining money; it also involves using the knowledge I've acquired throughout my time in studying to the betterment of others.

Greetings, everyone! My name is Ariana Davis. I am a 19-year-old Pre-Nursing student at the illustrious North Carolina A&T State University hailing from Prince George’s County, Maryland. Taking care of others has always come naturally to me as the oldest sibling. I've known since I was little that caring for people would be a big part of my future profession. When I began my high school journey, I opted to major in a biology STEM program. Though at times the work and dedication has been challenging, I have been fortunate to experience first-hand opportunities working in the medical field. During the summer of 2022, I volunteered with the American Red Cross at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. I assisted in the hematology and oncology clinic, where I worked first-hand with nurses, doctors, and patients that were diagnosed with cancer. This opportunity fueled my passion for pursuing a career in nursing. I was super excited to volunteer in one of the most prominent medical centers in the United States and work with real patients. In the clinic, I would regularly pull patients’ charts, sanitize areas for patients, provide the patients with food, and take blood samples to the laboratory. One day a week, myself and the other volunteers would have medical awareness training. I gained knowledge on basic medical skills such as how to take vitals, how to perform CPR properly, and how to pack gauze in an open wound. The doctors were very nice to me and the patients; they would always thank me for my service and assisting in the clinic. After observing how the nurses and doctors interacted with patients, I learned how to be more empathetic and caring while also performing the duties of my job. I hope to apply these same principles in my future nursing career. The nursing staff showed me that something as simple as explaining procedures and with a welcoming tone can change a patient’s outlook and mood. The patients visiting the clinic were all experiencing a range of emotions due to their sickness. Often it is impossible to relate, but it's crucial to keep an open mind and heart. I learned that a nurse’s primary responsibility is to listen to and meet the needs of a patient. Overall, my experience at Walter Reed taught me how to provide quality care, improve my communication skills, and help me understand the importance of having compassion in the medical field. Becoming a nurse will afford me the opportunity to serve my community in many ways, to include educating others about health disparities that affect black people at an alarming rate compared to other ethnicities. As a people, we all know someone that has neglected the importance of regular doctor visits and healthcare screenings. Cultivating healthcare equity is a necessity in the black community. The pandemic magnified the limited resources available to the underserved black communities in treating underlying health conditions. As a result, black people were disproportionately affected more than other ethnicities. I would like to use my education, profession, and love for helping others to volunteer with health and wellness initiatives, clinics in unserved communities, and activism. I will be able to fulfill a lifelong dream of mine by providing assistance to marginalized communities. For me, success goes beyond just getting a degree and gaining money; it also involves using the knowledge I've acquired throughout my time in studying to the betterment of others.

Taking care of others has always come naturally to me as the oldest sibling. I've known since I was little that caring for people would be a big part of my future profession. When I began my high school journey, I opted to major in a biology STEM program. Though at times the work and dedication has been challenging, I have been fortunate to experience first-hand opportunities working in the medical field. During the summer of 2022, I volunteered with the American Red Cross at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. I assisted in the hematology and oncology clinic, where I worked first-hand with professionals and patients that were diagnosed with cancer. This opportunity fueled my passion for pursuing a career in nursing. I was super excited to volunteer in one of the most prominent medical centers in the United States and work with real patients. In the clinic, I would regularly pull patients’ charts, sanitize areas for patients, provide the patients with food, and take blood samples to the laboratory. One day a week, I would have medical awareness training. I gained knowledge on basic medical skills such as how to take vitals, how to perform CPR properly, and how to pack gauze in an open wound. The doctors were very nice to me and the patients; they would always thank me for my service and assisting in the clinic. After observing how the nurses and doctors interacted with patients, I learned how to be more empathetic and caring while also performing the duties of my job. I hope to apply these same principles in my future nursing career. The nursing staff showed me that something as simple as explaining procedures and with a welcoming tone can change a patient’s outlook and mood. The patients visiting the clinic were all experiencing a range of emotions due to their sickness. Often it is impossible to relate, but it's crucial to keep an open mind and heart. I learned that a nurse’s primary responsibility is to listen to and meet the needs of a patient. Overall, my experience at Walter Reed taught me how to provide quality care, improve my communication skills, and help me understand the importance of having compassion in the medical field. Becoming a nurse will afford me the opportunity to serve my community in many ways, to include educating others about health disparities that affect black people at an alarming rate compared to other ethnicities. As a people, we all know someone that has neglected the importance of regular doctor visits and healthcare screenings. Cultivating healthcare equity is a necessity in the black community. The pandemic magnified the limited resources available to the underserved black communities in treating underlying health conditions. As a result, black people were disproportionately affected more than other ethnicities. I would like to use my education, profession, and love for helping others to volunteer with health and wellness initiatives, clinics in unserved communities, and activism. Being a student at the esteemed North Carolina A&T State University, I am surrounded by a diverse range of individuals from different cultures and backgrounds. I now know that not everyone is fortunate enough to get the necessary medical care they need. I will be able to fulfill a lifelong dream of mine by providing assistance to marginalized communities. For me, success goes beyond just getting a degree and gaining money; it also involves using the knowledge I've acquired throughout my time in studying to the betterment of others.

During the summer of 2022, I volunteered with the American Red Cross at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. I assisted in the hematology and oncology clinic, where I worked first-hand with nurses, doctors, and patients that were diagnosed with cancer. This opportunity fueled my passion for pursuing a career in nursing. I was super excited to volunteer in one of the most prominent medical centers in the United States and work with real patients. In the clinic, I would regularly pull patients’ charts, sanitize areas for patients, provide the patients with food, and take blood samples to the laboratory. One day a week, myself and the other volunteers would have medical awareness training. I gained knowledge on basic medical skills such as how to take vitals, how to perform CPR properly, and how to pack gauze in an open wound. The doctors were very nice to me and the patients; they would always thank me for my service and assisting in the clinic. After observing how the nurses and doctors interacted with patients, I learned how to be more empathetic and caring while also performing the duties of my job. I hope to apply these same principles in my future nursing career. The nursing staff showed me that something as simple as explaining procedures and with a welcoming tone can change a patient’s outlook and mood. The patients visiting the clinic were all experiencing a range of emotions due to their sickness. Often it is impossible to relate, but it's crucial to keep an open mind and heart. I learned that a nurse’s primary responsibility is to listen to and meet the needs of a patient. Overall, my experience at Walter Reed taught me how to provide quality care, improve my communication skills, and help me understand the importance of having compassion in the medical field. Becoming a nurse will afford me the opportunity to serve my community in many ways, to include educating others about health disparities that affect black people at an alarming rate compared to other ethnicities. As a people, we all know someone that has neglected the importance of regular doctor visits and healthcare screenings. Cultivating healthcare equity is a necessity in the black community. The pandemic magnified the limited resources available to the underserved black communities in treating underlying health conditions. As a result, black people were disproportionately affected more than other ethnicities. I would like to use my education, profession, and love for helping others to volunteer with health and wellness initiatives, clinics in unserved communities, and activism. Being a student at the esteemed North Carolina A&T State University, I am surrounded by a diverse range of individuals from different cultures and backgrounds. I now know that not everyone is fortunate enough to get the necessary medical care they need. I will be able to fulfill a lifelong dream of mine by providing assistance to marginalized communities. For me, success goes beyond just getting a degree and gaining money; it also involves using the knowledge I've acquired throughout my time in studying to the betterment of others.

During the summer of 2022, I volunteered with the American Red Cross at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. I assisted in the hematology and oncology clinic, where I worked first-hand with nurses, doctors, and patients that were diagnosed with cancer. This opportunity fueled my passion for pursuing a career in nursing. I was super excited to volunteer in one of the most prominent medical centers in the United States and work with real patients. In the clinic, I would regularly pull patients’ charts, sanitize areas for patients, provide the patients with food, and take blood samples to the laboratory. One day a week, myself and the other volunteers would have medical awareness training. I gained knowledge on basic medical skills such as how to take vitals, how to perform CPR properly, and how to pack gauze in an open wound. The doctors were very nice to me and the patients; they would always thank me for my service and assisting in the clinic. After observing how the nurses and doctors interacted with patients, I learned how to be more empathetic and caring while also performing the duties of my job. I hope to apply these same principles in my future nursing career. The nursing staff showed me that something as simple as explaining procedures and with a welcoming tone can change a patient’s outlook and mood. The patients visiting the clinic were all experiencing a range of emotions due to their sickness. Often it is impossible to relate, but it's crucial to keep an open mind and heart. I learned that a nurse’s primary responsibility is to listen to and meet the needs of a patient. Overall, my experience at Walter Reed taught me how to provide quality care, improve my communication skills, and help me understand the importance of having compassion in the medical field. Becoming a nurse will afford me the opportunity to serve my community in many ways, to include educating others about health disparities that affect black people at an alarming rate compared to other ethnicities. As a people, we all know someone that has neglected the importance of regular doctor visits and healthcare screenings. Cultivating healthcare equity is a necessity in the black community. The pandemic magnified the limited resources available to the underserved black communities in treating underlying health conditions. As a result, black people were disproportionately affected more than other ethnicities. I would like to use my education, profession, and love for helping others to volunteer with health and wellness initiatives, clinics in unserved communities, and activism. Being a student at the esteemed North Carolina A&T State University, I am surrounded by a diverse range of individuals from different cultures and backgrounds. I now know that not everyone is fortunate enough to get the necessary medical care they need. I will be able to fulfill a lifelong dream of mine by providing assistance to marginalized communities. For me, success goes beyond just getting a degree and gaining money; it also involves using the knowledge I've acquired throughout my time in studying to the betterment of others.

During the summer of 2022, I volunteered with the American Red Cross at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. I assisted in the hematology and oncology clinic, where I worked first-hand with nurses, doctors, and patients that were diagnosed with cancer. This opportunity fueled my passion for pursuing a career in nursing. I was super excited to volunteer in one of the most prominent medical centers in the United States and work with real patients. In the clinic, I would regularly pull patients’ charts, sanitize areas for patients, provide the patients with food, and take blood samples to the laboratory. One day a week, myself and the other volunteers would have medical awareness training. I gained knowledge on basic medical skills such as how to take vitals, how to perform CPR properly, and how to pack gauze in an open wound. The doctors were kind to me and the patients; they would always thank me for my service and assisting in the clinic. After observing how the nurses and doctors interacted with patients, I learned how to be more empathetic and caring while also performing the duties of my job. I hope to apply these same principles in my future nursing career. The nursing staff showed me that something as simple as explaining procedures and with a welcoming tone can change a patient’s outlook and mood. The patients visiting the clinic were all experiencing a range of emotions due to their sickness. Often it is impossible to relate, but it's crucial to keep an open mind and heart. I learned that a nurse’s primary responsibility is to listen to and meet the needs of a patient. Overall, my experience at Walter Reed taught me how to provide quality care, improve my communication skills, and help me understand the importance of having compassion in the medical field. Becoming a nurse will afford me the opportunity to serve my community in many ways, to include educating others about health disparities that affect black people at an alarming rate compared to other ethnicities. As a people, we all know someone that has neglected the importance of regular doctor visits and healthcare screenings. Cultivating healthcare equity is a necessity in the black community. The pandemic magnified the limited resources available to the underserved black communities in treating underlying health conditions. As a result, black people were disproportionately affected more than other ethnicities. I would like to use my education, profession, and love for helping others to volunteer with health and wellness initiatives, clinics in unserved communities, and activism. Being a student at the esteemed North Carolina A&T State University, I am surrounded by a diverse range of individuals from different cultures and backgrounds. I now know that not everyone is fortunate enough to get the necessary medical care they need. I will be able to fulfill a lifelong dream of mine by providing assistance to marginalized communities. For me, success goes beyond just getting a degree and gaining money; it also involves using the knowledge I've acquired throughout my time in studying to the betterment of others.

Becoming a nurse will afford me the opportunity to serve my community in many ways, to include educating others about health disparities that affect black people at an alarming rate compared to other ethnicities. As a people, we all know someone that has neglected the importance of regular doctor visits and healthcare screenings. Cultivating healthcare equity is a necessity in the black community. The pandemic magnified the limited resources available to the underserved black communities in treating underlying health conditions. As a result, black people were disproportionately affected more than other ethnicities. I would like to use my education, profession, and love for helping others to volunteer with health and wellness initiatives, clinics in unserved communities, and activism. Being a student at the esteemed North Carolina A&T State University, I am surrounded by a diverse range of individuals from different cultures and backgrounds. I now know that not everyone is fortunate enough to get the necessary medical care they need. I will be able to fulfill a lifelong dream of mine by providing assistance to marginalized communities. For me, success goes beyond just getting a degree and gaining money; it also involves using the knowledge I've acquired throughout my time in studying to the betterment of others.

On May 1, 2023, I made the decision to commit to the illustrious North Carolina A&T State University. While I was afraid to leave my hometown in Prince George’s County, Maryland, I was excited about my new journey as a college student. As my freshman year is coming to an end, I can say that attending A&T was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. I’ve met many people from various backgrounds, made many connections within the University, and learned a lot about myself along the way. A&T has given me many opportunities to grow academically and professionally, such has hosting college fairs, offering free tutoring services, and opening community service opportunities. Being a student at A&T has taught me how to show acceptance and be prideful of where I came from. At A&T, I feel like I can be who I really am. There is practically a place for everyone because there are so many different types of students from various backgrounds. Our shared diversity unites us as a single entity. While every school might have their flaws and downfalls, A&T makes up for it by providing an unforgettable experience to their students. Becoming a nurse will afford me the opportunity to serve my community in many ways, to include educating others about health disparities that affect black people at an alarming rate compared to other ethnicities. As a people, we all know someone that has neglected the importance of regular doctor visits and healthcare screenings. Cultivating healthcare equity is a necessity in the black community. The pandemic magnified the limited resources available to the underserved black communities in treating underlying health conditions. As a result, black people were disproportionately affected more than other ethnicities. I would like to use my education, profession, and love for helping others to volunteer with health and wellness initiatives, clinics in unserved communities, and activism. Being a student at the esteemed North Carolina A&T State University, I am surrounded by a diverse range of individuals from different cultures and backgrounds. I now know that not everyone is fortunate enough to get the necessary medical care they need. I will be able to fulfill a lifelong dream of mine by providing assistance to marginalized communities. For me, success goes beyond just getting a degree and gaining money; it also involves using the knowledge I've acquired throughout my time in studying to the betterment of others.

Greetings, everyone! My name is Ariana Davis. I am a 19-year-old Pre-Nursing student at the illustrious North Carolina A&T State University hailing from Prince George’s County, Maryland. Taking care of others has always come naturally to me as the oldest sibling. I've known since I was little that caring for people would be a big part of my future profession. When I began my high school journey, I opted to major in a biology STEM program. Though at times the work and dedication has been challenging, I have been fortunate to experience first-hand opportunities working in the medical field. During the summer of 2022, I volunteered with the American Red Cross at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. I assisted in the hematology and oncology clinic, where I worked first-hand with nurses, doctors, and patients that were diagnosed with cancer. This opportunity fueled my passion for pursuing a career in nursing. I was super excited to volunteer in one of the most prominent medical centers in the United States and work with real patients. In the clinic, I would regularly pull patients’ charts, sanitize areas for patients, provide the patients with food, and take blood samples to the laboratory. One day a week, myself and the other volunteers would have medical awareness training. I gained knowledge on basic medical skills such as how to take vitals, how to perform CPR properly, and how to pack gauze in an open wound. After observing how the nurses and doctors interacted with patients, I learned how to be more empathetic and caring while also performing the duties of my job. I hope to apply these same principles in my future nursing career. The nursing staff showed me that something as simple as explaining procedures and with a welcoming tone can change a patient’s outlook and mood. The patients visiting the clinic were all experiencing a range of emotions due to their sickness. Often it is impossible to relate, but it's crucial to keep an open mind and heart. I learned that a nurse’s primary responsibility is to listen to and meet the needs of a patient. Overall, my experience at Walter Reed taught me how to provide quality care, improve my communication skills, and help me understand the importance of having compassion in the medical field. Becoming a nurse will afford me the opportunity to serve my community in many ways, to include educating others about health disparities that affect black people at an alarming rate compared to other ethnicities. As a people, we all know someone that has neglected the importance of regular doctor visits and healthcare screenings. Cultivating healthcare equity is a necessity in the black community. The pandemic magnified the limited resources available to the underserved black communities in treating underlying health conditions. As a result, black people were disproportionately affected more than other ethnicities. I would like to use my education, profession, and love for helping others to volunteer with health and wellness initiatives, clinics in unserved communities, and activism. Being a student at the esteemed North Carolina A&T State University, I am surrounded by a diverse range of individuals from different cultures and backgrounds. I now know that not everyone is fortunate enough to get the necessary medical care they need. I will be able to fulfill a lifelong dream of mine by providing assistance to marginalized communities. For me, success goes beyond just getting a degree and gaining money; it also involves using the knowledge I've acquired throughout my time in studying to the betterment of others.

Helping people has always come naturally to me as the oldest child. I've always made the initiative to lead by example and offer assistance for as long as I can remember. When I began my high school journey, I opted to major in a biology STEM program. Though at times the work and dedication has been challenging, I have been fortunate to experience first-hand opportunities working in the medical field. During the summer of 2022, I volunteered with American Red Cross at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. I assisted in the hematology and oncology clinic, where I worked first-hand with nurses, doctors, and patients that were diagnosed with cancer. This opportunity fueled my passion for pursuing a career in nursing. I was super excited to volunteer in one of the most prominent medical centers in the United States and work with real patients. In the clinic, I would regularly pull patients’ charts, sanitize areas for patients, provide the patients with food, and take blood samples to the laboratory. One day a week, myself and the other volunteers would have medical awareness training. I gained knowledge on basic medical skills such as how to take vitals, how to perform CPR properly, and how to pack gauze in an open wound. I would define success as using my gift to pour into the black community. Becoming a nurse will afford me the opportunity to serve my community in many ways, to include educating others about health disparities that affect black people at an alarming rate compared to other ethnicities. As a people, we all know someone that has neglected the importance of regular doctor visits and healthcare screenings. Cultivating healthcare equity is a necessity in the black community. The pandemic magnified the limited resources available to the underserved black communities in treating underlying health conditions. As a result, black people were disproportionately affected more than other ethnicities. I would like to use my education, profession, and love for helping others to volunteer with health and wellness initiatives, clinics in unserved communities, and activism. Being a student at the esteemed North Carolina A&T State University, I am surrounded by a diverse range of individuals from different cultures and backgrounds. I now know that not everyone is fortunate enough to get the necessary medical care they need. I will be able to fulfill a lifelong dream of mine by providing assistance to marginalized communities. For me, success goes beyond just getting a degree and gaining money; it also involves using the knowledge I've acquired throughout my time in studying to the betterment of others. The fact that North Carolina A&T State University values community involvement is one of the key reasons I decided to enroll there. Ever since I began attending A&T, I've been able to help local elementary school children and students in need of materials and resources. As a child of a single parent, we frequently had financial difficulties. If I am given this chance, I will be able to concentrate on my mission and finish my nursing degree.

During the summer of 2022, I volunteered with American Red Cross at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. I assisted in the hematology and oncology clinic, where I worked first-hand with black nurses, doctors, and patients that were diagnosed with cancer. This opportunity fueled my passion for pursuing a career in nursing. I was super excited to volunteer in one of the most prominent medical centers in the United States and work with real patients. In the clinic, I would regularly pull patients’ charts, sanitize areas for patients, provide the patients with food, and take blood samples to the laboratory. One day a week, myself and the other volunteers would have medical awareness training. I gained knowledge on basic medical skills such as how to take vitals, how to perform CPR properly, and how to pack gauze in an open wound. The doctors were very nice to me and the patients; they would always thank me for my service and assisting in the clinic. After observing how the nurses and doctors interacted with patients, I learned how to be more empathetic and caring while also performing the duties of my job. I hope to apply these same principles in my future nursing career. The nursing staff showed me that something as simple as explaining procedures and with a welcoming tone can change a patient’s outlook and mood. The patients visiting the clinic were all experiencing a range of emotions due to their sickness. Often it is impossible to relate, but it's crucial to keep an open mind and heart. I learned that a nurse’s primary responsibility is to listen to and meet the needs of a patient. Overall, my experience at Walter Reed taught me how to provide quality care, improve my communication skills, and help me understand the importance of having compassion in the medical field. My idea of black excellence is using my gift to pour into the black community. Continuing my education and pursuing a nursing degree will help me develop my gift and nurture my passion for helping others. Becoming a nurse will afford me the opportunity to serve my community in many ways, to include educating others about health disparities that affect black people at an alarming rate compared to other ethnicities. As a people, we all know someone that has neglected the importance of regular doctor visits and healthcare screenings. Let’s be honest, ginger ale and Vicks won’t solve everything. Cultivating healthcare equity is a necessity in the black community. The pandemic magnified the limited resources available to the underserved black communities in treating underlying health conditions. As a result, black people were disproportionately affected more than other ethnicities. I would like to use my education, profession, and love for helping others to volunteer with health and wellness initiatives, clinics in unserved communities, and activism. Continuing my education and pursuing a nursing degree will help me develop my gift and nurture my passion for helping others. Becoming a nurse will afford me the opportunity to serve my community in many ways, to include educating others about health conditions and the proper preventative care to avoid them. Cultivating healthcare equity in low-income communities is also a professional goal of mine. The pandemic magnified the limited resources available to the underserved communities in treating underlying health conditions. I would like to use my education, profession, and love for helping others to volunteer with health and wellness initiatives, clinics in unserved communities, and activism.

During the summer of 2022, I volunteered with American Red Cross at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. I assisted in the hematology and oncology clinic, where I worked first-hand with black nurses, doctors, and patients that were diagnosed with cancer. This opportunity fueled my passion for pursuing a career in nursing. I was super excited to volunteer in one of the most prominent medical centers in the United States and work with real patients. In the clinic, I would regularly pull patients’ charts, sanitize areas for patients, provide the patients with food, and take blood samples to the laboratory. One day a week, myself and the other volunteers would have medical awareness training. I gained knowledge on basic medical skills such as how to take vitals, how to perform CPR properly, and how to pack gauze in an open wound. The doctors were very nice to me and the patients; they would always thank me for my service and assisting in the clinic. After observing how the nurses and doctors interacted with patients, I learned how to be more empathetic and caring while also performing the duties of my job. I hope to apply these same principles in my future nursing career. The nursing staff showed me that something as simple as explaining procedures and with a welcoming tone can change a patient’s outlook and mood. The patients visiting the clinic were all experiencing a range of emotions due to their sickness. Often it is impossible to relate, but it's crucial to keep an open mind and heart. I learned that a nurse’s primary responsibility is to listen to and meet the needs of a patient. Overall, my experience at Walter Reed taught me how to provide quality care, improve my communication skills, and help me understand the importance of having compassion in the medical field. My idea of black excellence is using my gift to pour into the black community. Continuing my education and pursuing a nursing degree will help me develop my gift and nurture my passion for helping others. Becoming a nurse will afford me the opportunity to serve my community in many ways, to include educating others about health disparities that affect black people at an alarming rate compared to other ethnicities. As a people, we all know someone that has neglected the importance of regular doctor visits and healthcare screenings. Let’s be honest, ginger ale and Vicks won’t solve everything. Cultivating healthcare equity is a necessity in the black community. The pandemic magnified the limited resources available to the underserved black communities in treating underlying health conditions. As a result, black people were disproportionately affected more than other ethnicities. I would like to use my education, profession, and love for helping others to volunteer with health and wellness initiatives, clinics in unserved communities, and activism. Continuing my education and pursuing a nursing degree will help me develop my gift and nurture my passion for helping others. Becoming a nurse will afford me the opportunity to serve my community in many ways, to include educating others about health conditions and the proper preventative care to avoid them. Cultivating healthcare equity in low-income communities is also a professional goal of mine. The pandemic magnified the limited resources available to the underserved communities in treating underlying health conditions. I would like to use my education, profession, and love for helping others to volunteer with health and wellness initiatives, clinics in unserved communities, and activism.