Softball has been more than just a sport for me—it has shaped who I am, given me purpose, and provided a sanctuary during the most challenging moments of my life. I started playing softball when I was 12, and from the moment I stepped onto the field, I knew I had found something special. The crack of the bat, the precision of a well-executed play, the camaraderie of teammates—it was intoxicating. Softball wasn’t just about winning games; it became a metaphor for resilience and teamwork, qualities I carry with me off the field as well. One of the most significant impacts of softball has been its role in teaching me discipline and perseverance. Balancing rigorous training schedules with academics and personal responsibilities hasn’t always been easy. Yet, it taught me time management and the importance of showing up—even when the odds aren’t in my favor. These lessons became invaluable three years ago when my mom was diagnosed with grade 4 brain cancer. That news turned my world upside down, but softball gave me an outlet, a way to cope. Every practice, every game became a form of therapy, a place where I could channel my emotions and feel a sense of normalcy. Softball has also been a bridge to my cultural roots. As a Taiwanese-American, I’ve had opportunities to connect with the Taiwanese national team and explore my heritage through sport. Representing Taiwan, even in practice games, was a surreal experience that deepened my appreciation for my identity. It reminded me how universal the language of sport is—it transcends barriers and brings people together. Today, I am a junior nursing major at Emory University and a proud member of our softball team. Being part of Emory’s program has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. Our team isn’t just a collection of players; we’re a family. The relationships I’ve built here are lifelong, and the support we offer one another, both on and off the field, is unmatched. As a nursing student and athlete, my days are meticulously planned. Mornings often start with clinical rotations or classes, followed by afternoon practices and evening study sessions. It’s a grueling schedule, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. Balancing these two demanding worlds has taught me to focus on what truly matters and to give my all to the things I’m passionate about. Softball has also strengthened my confidence and leadership skills. As an upperclassman, I’ve taken on more responsibility in mentoring younger teammates. Helping them navigate the pressures of college sports and academics is incredibly fulfilling. I’ve realized that leadership isn’t about being the loudest voice but about setting an example through hard work, empathy, and consistency. Looking ahead, I want to continue playing softball for as long as I can. While my ultimate career goal is to become a nurse anesthetist, I believe there’s a way to integrate both passions. After graduating, I hope to stay connected to the sport by coaching or mentoring young players. Softball has given me so much—it’s only right to give back. Softball has been my anchor through life’s storms, especially as my family navigates the challenges of my mom’s illness. It’s taught me to fight, to cherish small victories, and to never give up—qualities I carry into every aspect of my life. For me, softball isn’t just a game; it’s a lifelong love, a source of strength, and a reminder that we’re capable of more than we think.

My decision to pursue nursing stems from a deeply personal journey that has shaped not only my aspirations but also my determination to make a lasting impact on the lives of others. When my mother was diagnosed with grade 4 brain cancer, my world turned upside down. Watching her fight through pain and uncertainty while our family struggled to cope was one of the hardest experiences of my life. Amid this turmoil, nurses became our lifeline—not just for her physical care, but for the compassion and hope they extended to all of us. One nurse, in particular, left a profound impression on me. She didn’t just see my mother as a patient; she saw her as a person—a mother, a wife, a woman deserving of dignity and care. Her unwavering kindness and expertise didn’t just ease my mother’s suffering; they gave our family strength. It was in those moments, seeing the powerful difference one person could make, that I knew I wanted to become a nurse. Nursing is a field where science meets humanity, where knowledge and compassion converge to create hope. It is more than a career—it is a calling. Becoming a nurse will allow me to turn my family’s hardships into a source of healing for others. My ultimate goal is to become a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), specializing in providing care during some of the most critical and vulnerable moments of a patient’s life. I want to work in underserved communities, where access to quality healthcare is often limited. I aspire to bridge gaps in care by offering not just medical expertise but also empathy and cultural understanding. Everyone deserves to feel safe and valued during their healthcare journey, and I am committed to making that a reality. This scholarship would not only ease the financial burden of my education but also empower me to dedicate more time and energy to initiatives that uplift others. I currently volunteer at food shelters, serving meals and connecting with individuals facing food insecurity. These experiences have deepened my understanding of how social determinants impact health and strengthened my resolve to advocate for vulnerable populations. With this scholarship, I can expand my community efforts, such as creating health education programs for at-risk communities and mentoring students from underrepresented backgrounds who aspire to enter healthcare. I am determined to not only excel academically and professionally but also to give back. This scholarship represents an investment in my ability to serve others, turning challenges into opportunities for growth and resilience. By alleviating financial stress, it would allow me to focus fully on my studies and community outreach, ensuring that I can bring the same compassion and dedication that inspired me into every patient interaction. My journey has taught me that care goes beyond treatment—it is about human connection, advocacy, and creating a legacy of kindness. With your support, I will continue to embody these values and make a meaningful impact in the world through nursing.

Selected Paragraph from the Tao Te Ching by Laozi: "The Tao that can be told is not the eternal Tao; the name that can be named is not the eternal name. The nameless is the origin of Heaven and Earth; the named is the mother of ten thousand things. Ever desireless, one can see the mystery. Ever desiring, one can see the manifestations. These two spring from the same source but differ in name; this appears as darkness. Darkness within darkness. The gateway to all understanding." Essay: In the opening lines of the Tao Te Ching, Laozi distills a profound truth about existence, knowledge, and human perception. At first glance, these words seem deliberately cryptic, as if cloaking their meaning in veils of paradox. Yet, with a closer reading, the text reveals itself to be a meditation on the nature of reality, the limitations of language, and the interconnectedness of opposites. Laozi’s wisdom lies not in answering questions definitively but in reframing how we approach them, inviting readers to find harmony within uncertainty. This passage is more than a philosophical statement—it is a timeless guide for navigating the mysteries of existence. At its core, this passage asserts that the ultimate reality, the “Tao,” transcends human comprehension and articulation. “The Tao that can be told is not the eternal Tao” challenges the very foundation of human communication. By naming or describing something, we impose boundaries and definitions, reducing infinite complexity to finite terms. This paradox is as relevant today as it was in ancient China. In our modern, information-saturated world, we often mistake clarity for truth, assuming that something fully explained is fully understood. Laozi’s words remind us that reality is far more nuanced, that what we can describe is merely a reflection, not the essence, of the eternal. The interplay between the “nameless” and the “named” reflects a central theme in Laozi’s philosophy: the duality of existence. The nameless represents the formless, the infinite source from which all things arise—what Laozi calls the “origin of Heaven and Earth.” In contrast, the named refers to the tangible, manifested world, or the “ten thousand things,” as Laozi poetically describes the multiplicity of creation. This duality mirrors human perception: we live in a world of forms, constantly naming and categorizing, yet all these forms stem from the same ineffable source. Laozi’s insight challenges readers to see beyond superficial distinctions and recognize the unity underlying all things. The line “Ever desireless, one can see the mystery; ever desiring, one can see the manifestations” deepens this exploration of duality. Laozi contrasts two modes of being: a state of desirelessness, which allows one to perceive the “mystery,” and a state of desire, which focuses on the material manifestations of the Tao. This is not a condemnation of desire but a recognition of its role in shaping human experience. Desire connects us to the physical world, anchoring us in tangible realities. Yet, it can also obscure the deeper truths that lie beyond appearances. Laozi suggests that to truly understand the Tao, one must cultivate a balance, appreciating the manifestations without losing sight of the mystery. The metaphor “darkness within darkness” encapsulates the enigmatic nature of the Tao. Darkness symbolizes the unknown, the ungraspable essence of existence that defies comprehension. Yet, Laozi does not present this darkness as something to fear; instead, he frames it as “the gateway to all understanding.” This imagery challenges readers to embrace uncertainty, to find comfort in the unknowable. In a world that often equates light with clarity and darkness with ignorance, Laozi’s words subvert these assumptions, suggesting that the greatest truths lie hidden in the depths of mystery. The historical and cultural context of the Tao Te Ching enriches its meaning. Written during the Warring States period of ancient China, a time marked by political turmoil and societal instability, the text offers a radical departure from the prevailing ethos of control and conquest. While other philosophies, such as Confucianism, emphasized order and hierarchy as solutions to chaos, Laozi advocated for harmony with nature and the acceptance of life’s inherent contradictions. The Tao, as Laozi presents it, is not a rigid system to be mastered but a fluid, ever-changing force to be aligned with. This perspective invites a profound humility, urging individuals to let go of their illusions of control and embrace the natural flow of existence. In modern times, Laozi’s teachings resonate with pressing global challenges, from environmental degradation to societal polarization. The Tao’s emphasis on interconnectedness and balance offers a counterpoint to the fragmented, competitive mindset that often drives human behavior. By recognizing the unity of the nameless and the named, the mystery and the manifestation, we are reminded of our place within a larger whole. This perspective is especially vital in addressing environmental issues, where the illusion of separateness has led to the exploitation of natural resources. Laozi’s wisdom encourages a shift from domination to stewardship, from consumption to coexistence. On a personal level, this passage from the Tao Te Ching has profoundly shaped my approach to learning and life. As a student, I often find myself seeking definitive answers, striving to categorize and master complex concepts. Laozi’s words remind me to embrace the uncertainties and ambiguities inherent in the pursuit of knowledge. Close reading, as exemplified in analyzing this text, is not about imposing meaning but about uncovering layers of understanding. It requires patience, humility, and a willingness to engage with the text on its terms rather than forcing it to fit preconceived notions. This practice of close reading extends beyond academics. In a world that often prioritizes speed and surface-level engagement, taking the time to delve deeply into a text—or a conversation, or a moment—feels increasingly radical. Laozi’s emphasis on the mystery of the nameless encourages me to approach life with curiosity and openness, valuing the journey of exploration as much as the destination. It challenges me to see beyond the “ten thousand things” of daily life and reconnect with the deeper currents that shape our existence. Laozi’s insights also have profound implications for how we relate to one another. The recognition of unity within duality—the idea that all things spring from the same source—invites compassion and empathy. By seeing ourselves as interconnected rather than separate, we are called to treat others with the same care and respect we would extend to ourselves. This perspective aligns closely with the values of service and community engagement that I strive to embody in my daily life. As I reflect on this passage, I am struck by its timelessness. Written over two millennia ago, its wisdom feels as relevant now as it did in ancient China. It speaks to universal human experiences—the tension between knowing and not knowing, the balance between desire and detachment, the search for meaning in a world of contradictions. Its lessons are not confined to philosophy or spirituality; they have practical applications in every aspect of life, from personal growth to global problem-solving. In conclusion, the opening passage of the Tao Te Ching is a profound meditation on the nature of reality, the limitations of language, and the interconnectedness of all things. Through its poetic paradoxes, Laozi challenges readers to rethink their assumptions, embrace uncertainty, and seek harmony within duality. This close reading has not only deepened my appreciation for Laozi’s wisdom but also reinforced the value of slowing down, looking beyond the surface, and engaging deeply with the world around me. In a time when clarity is often mistaken for truth, Laozi’s invitation to explore the “darkness within darkness” feels more vital than ever—a reminder that the greatest insights often lie hidden in the depths of mystery.

When I was sixteen, the world as I knew it unraveled. My mother, the heart of our Taiwanese household, was diagnosed with grade 4 brain cancer. The vibrant woman who sang traditional songs while cooking and cheered the loudest at my softball games was suddenly confined to a hospital bed, her future uncertain. My father, overwhelmed by medical bills and the weight of impending loss, withdrew into himself, leaving a palpable void in our family. Our home transformed into a maze of medical equipment and hushed conversations. I became a caretaker overnight—administering medications, translating medical jargon, and attempting to keep my father's spirits afloat while grappling with my own despair. The responsibilities were crushing. Nights were the hardest; I’d lie awake listening to the beeping of monitors, the silence punctuated by my father's muffled sobs behind closed doors. The softball field, once my sanctuary, felt like a distant memory. Friends drifted away, not knowing how to navigate my new reality. I was isolated, angry, and engulfed by a darkness I couldn't escape. I sought help from a school counselor, something that felt taboo in my culture where personal struggles are kept within the family. Through therapy, I began to process my pain and managed my responsibilities without sacrificing my well-being. I reconnected with softball, channeling my turmoil into every swing and sprint, rediscovering joy amidst the chaos. My mother's battle isn't over, but overcoming the initial tsunami of fear and responsibility taught me the power of vulnerability, the importance of mental health, and the strength that comes from asking for help. It shaped me into someone who not only survives adversity but uses it as a catalyst for growth—a lesson I carry into my pursuit of becoming a nurse anesthetist, determined to support others through their darkest hours. Receiving this scholarship would be a lifeline, easing the financial strain that shadows my educational journey. With the weight of tuition lessened, I can devote more energy to initiatives that uplift my community—a community that has been both my refuge and my inspiration. I aim to initiate health outreach programs in underserved areas, focusing on preventive care and education. Being fluent in Mandarin and familiar with Taiwanese culture, I can bridge gaps within Asian immigrant communities, ensuring they receive culturally sensitive healthcare information and services. As an aspiring Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist, I intend to work in hospitals that serve low-income populations, offering compassionate care to those who often feel marginalized by the healthcare system. The scholarship would not only support my education but amplify my ability to effect change—turning my personal struggles into collective empowerment. In an era where communication is instantaneous and digital, philately might seem antiquated to young people. To spark their interest, I would reframe stamp collecting as a journey through history, art, and culture—a tangible connection to the world’s stories. I would organize interactive workshops that allow youths to handle rare and unique stamps, each with its own tale. For instance, stamps from different eras can serve as gateways to discussions about significant historical events, social movements, or artistic trends. By linking stamps to topics they're passionate about—like environmental conservation, civil rights, or pop culture—we make the hobby relevant and engaging. Incorporating technology is also key. Creating an app where young collectors can virtually catalog their collections, share with peers, and learn about the origins of their stamps adds a modern twist. By demonstrating that philately is more than just collecting—it's preserving pieces of our shared human experience—we can inspire young people to embrace this enriching hobby, keeping it alive for future generations.

As a 20-year-old junior at the Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing at Emory University, my journey has been a beautiful painting of resilience, cultural richness, and an unwavering commitment to service. Yet, it is my experiences beyond academics and athletics that have ignited my passion to make a lasting difference in the world. Growing up in a Taiwanese family, I was immersed in a culture that values community, respect, and compassion. These principles became my anchor when my mother was diagnosed with grade 4 brain cancer. Our family dynamic shifted dramatically as my father struggled to care for us, both emotionally and financially. Hospitals became our second home, and it was within those sterile walls that I witnessed the incredible power of nursing. One nurse, in particular, left an indelible mark on my heart. Mei, who shared our cultural background, became a beacon of hope during our darkest days. She didn't just tend to my mother's medical needs; she offered comfort, understanding, and a sense of normalcy that transcended her professional duties. In that moment, I realized that I wanted to be that source of strength and solace for others—to embody the very essence of what it means to be a nurse. Currently, I am channeling this calling by volunteering at local food shelters in Atlanta. Every week, I join a dedicated team to prepare and serve meals to those facing food insecurity. One evening, I met a man named James, a single father who had recently lost his job. As we shared stories over volunteering, I was struck by his resilience despite overwhelming adversity. Our conversation reinforced my belief that nourishment extends beyond food—it's about feeding the soul with kindness, respect, and genuine human connection. These volunteer experiences have profoundly shaped my understanding of the socioeconomic factors that contribute to health disparities. They have fueled my determination to address not just the symptoms but the root causes of inequity in our society. After college, I plan to integrate my nursing expertise with community outreach to create sustainable change. My vision is to establish a mobile health clinic that serves underserved and marginalized communities. This clinic would offer basic medical care, health screenings, and educational workshops on nutrition, mental health, and disease prevention. By collaborating with local organizations, schools, and farms, we can provide holistic services that address both immediate needs and long-term well-being. I am particularly passionate about incorporating culturally competent care, ensuring that language barriers and cultural differences do not hinder access to quality healthcare. Beyond my professional goals, I am committed to mentoring the next generation. I plan to initiate programs that encourage youth, especially those from minority and low-income backgrounds, to pursue careers in healthcare. By sharing my journey and providing resources, I hope to inspire others to become agents of change in their communities. In reflecting on my path—from the softball fields to hospital corridors—I recognize that every challenge and triumph has prepared me for this mission. My mother's battle with cancer taught me the fragility of life and the profound impact one individual can have on another's journey. Volunteering at food shelters has shown me the strength of community and the importance of empathy. I am dedicated to carrying these lessons forward, to be a catalyst for positive transformation. Whether it's alleviating pain in a surgical unit, offering a warm meal, or simply listening to someone's story, I am committed to making my community—and the world—a better place. I believe that true change begins with small acts of kindness that ripple outward, touching lives in ways we may never fully comprehend.

As a Taiwanese-American, I have always cherished the values of family, resilience, and hard work—principles that have guided me through every twist and turn of my educational journey. Balancing the demands of a rigorous nursing program while being a member of the varsity softball team has taught me the art of perseverance and the importance of teamwork both on and off the field. Growing up, I never imagined that I would find my calling in nursing. Initially, my aspirations were scattered; I was passionate about sports, intrigued by science, but unsure of how to merge my interests into a fulfilling career. Everything changed when my mother was diagnosed with grade 4 brain cancer. The world as I knew it shifted dramatically. Overnight, hospitals became our second home, and medical jargon became a new language I had to quickly learn. Watching my mother battle such an aggressive illness was heart-wrenching. My father struggled to hold our family together, often working extra hours to cover medical expenses while trying to be present for my mother and me. The weight of uncertainty and fear was overwhelming, but it was during this darkest hour that I discovered a light—a profound respect and admiration for the nurses who cared for my mother. One nurse in particular made an indelible impact on me. Her name was Mei, and she shared a similar cultural background, which instantly created a bridge of understanding and comfort. Mei didn't just administer medications or monitor vital signs; she took the time to explain each procedure in terms we could understand, held my mother's hand during painful treatments, and even shared stories from her own life to lift our spirits. She brought a sense of normalcy and humanity to an otherwise sterile and intimidating environment. The "aha" moment came late one night as I sat by my mother's bedside. Mei had just left the room after adjusting my mother's IV. I watched the gentle rise and fall of my mother's chest and felt an overwhelming mix of gratitude and clarity. In that quiet moment, I realized that I wanted to be for others what Mei was for us—a beacon of compassion, knowledge, and support during life's most vulnerable times. Determined to follow this newfound calling, I immersed myself in my studies with a renewed sense of purpose. My experiences with my mother’s illness have given me a unique perspective on patient care—one that blends clinical expertise with deep empathy. I am particularly drawn to the field of nurse anesthesia, aspiring to become a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA). This specialization appeals to me because it combines advanced scientific knowledge with the opportunity to provide comfort and assurance to patients undergoing surgery. My journey has been anything but conventional, but each challenge has fortified my resolve. Balancing nursing school and varsity softball has not been easy, especially while supporting my family through my mother's illness. Yet, these experiences have taught me resilience, time management, and the importance of mental and physical well-being. In reflection, every step of my journey—each softball game won or lost, every late-night study session, and all the moments spent in hospital rooms—has led me to this point. I am committed to becoming a nurse who not only excels clinically but also touches lives with the same compassion and dedication that inspired me. I look forward to the day when I can make a difference in someone's life, just as Mei did in ours.

As I look toward my future as a nurse, my personal journey and Taiwanese heritage profoundly shape my aspirations and commitment to the profession. Growing up in a family that values holistic care, respect for elders, and the strength of familial bonds, I have always understood the vital role that compassion and cultural sensitivity play in healing. These principles have been tested and reinforced through my own family's experiences. Although we are not from a low-income household, my father has become the sole provider as my mother bravely battles grade 4 brain cancer. This arduous journey has immersed me in the emotional and financial strains that accompany serious illnesses, often making it feel as though we face the same challenges as those in low-income circumstances. Witnessing my mother's struggle and the impact it has had on our family has ignited a deep-seated passion within me to pursue a career as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA). I am driven by the desire to be at the forefront of patient care during critical surgical procedures, ensuring their comfort, safety, and dignity when they are most vulnerable. The meticulous nature of anesthesia care, coupled with the opportunity to make a tangible difference in patient outcomes, resonates with my aspiration to blend technical expertise with empathetic understanding. My personal experiences have endowed me with a unique perspective on the healthcare system. I have seen firsthand how serious illness can disrupt every facet of life, not just for the patient but for the entire family. This insight fuels my commitment to provide care that extends beyond the operating room. I aim to be a source of support and reassurance for both patients and their loved ones, acknowledging the emotional turmoil that accompanies medical treatments. Furthermore, I am passionate about incorporating my Taiwanese cultural background into my practice. Understanding the nuances of different cultural beliefs about health and medicine is essential in delivering effective care. I aspire to bridge cultural gaps within the healthcare environment, promoting inclusivity and respect for diversity. By being culturally competent, I can better advocate for patients from various backgrounds, ensuring they feel seen, heard, and valued. In addition to my clinical goals, I am determined to address the broader systemic issues that affect patient care. My family's experience has highlighted the disparities that exist within healthcare access and support. I intend to use my voice and position to advocate for policies that alleviate the financial burdens on families dealing with severe illnesses. By collaborating with interdisciplinary teams and engaging in community outreach, I hope to contribute to initiatives that make healthcare more accessible and equitable for all, regardless of socioeconomic status. Ultimately, my vision is to become a CRNA who embodies excellence in clinical practice while remaining deeply attuned to the human side of medicine. I am committed to lifelong learning and professional growth, striving to stay abreast of the latest advancements in anesthesiology. More importantly, I aim to infuse every patient interaction with the empathy and compassion that my own experiences have cultivated within me. In merging my professional ambitions with my personal narrative, I seek to make a meaningful impact not only on individual patients but also on the healthcare system as a whole. I believe that by standing at the intersection of technical proficiency and heartfelt care, I can honor my mother's journey, uplift my cultural heritage, and contribute positively to the lives of those navigating their own health challenges.

At sixteen, I didn’t realize how much I needed to slow down. My days were packed with softball practices, school assignments, and the constant pull of notifications from my phone. Life felt like a sprint, and I was struggling to keep pace. When my dad suggested a weekend camping trip in the Georgia mountains, I wasn’t thrilled. Two days without Wi-Fi or air conditioning didn’t sound like the “reset” he promised. I agreed reluctantly, expecting to endure it rather than embrace it. Instead, that trip became one of the most transformative experiences of my life. The hike to our campsite was grueling. The trail snaked steeply upward, its uneven terrain demanding every ounce of strength I had. My backpack felt heavier with each step, and the summer humidity clung to me like a second skin. But as the hours passed, something unexpected began to happen. The rhythm of the hike—the steady crunch of boots on the dirt trail, the occasional rustle of leaves, and the distant sound of running water—started to quiet my racing thoughts. I found myself noticing the small things my dad pointed out: the intricate patterns of moss on a fallen log, the way the breeze carried the scent of pine, and the sound of a woodpecker somewhere in the distance. Without realizing it, I was letting go of the noise in my mind. My thoughts slowed, and I began to feel a sense of calm I hadn’t experienced in months. The next morning, my dad woke me before dawn. “You’ll want to see this,” he said, nudging my shoulder. Still groggy, I pulled on my shoes and followed him up a narrow trail to a rocky overlook. The forest was quiet, the cool air carrying a stillness that felt almost sacred. We sat down, waiting for the sun to rise. When it did, it was like watching the world awaken. Golden light spilled over the mountains, illuminating the mist that clung to the valleys below. The sky shifted through shades of orange, pink, and purple, each color more breathtaking than the last. For a moment, everything felt impossibly still. I wasn’t thinking about my to-do list or the soreness in my legs. I wasn’t thinking at all. I was just there, present, letting the beauty of the moment wash over me. That sunrise taught me something profound: life is full of steep climbs and uneven paths, but the journey is where growth and quiet clarity happen. Since that trip, I’ve carried that lesson with me. When the demands of being a student-athlete feel overwhelming, I think back to that sunrise and remind myself to pause and focus on the present. Supporting my mom through her illness has been another steep climb, but the lessons from that mountain have helped me find strength in small victories and peace in being fully present for her. Now, as I prepare for a career in nursing, I know the importance of those lessons. In moments of chaos, I want to bring calm and clarity to the patients I care for. Just as my dad guided me up that mountain with quiet encouragement, I hope to be a steady presence for others in their toughest moments. That weekend in the Georgia mountains wasn’t just a camping trip. It was a turning point, a reminder to find beauty in the climb and stillness in the journey. And when life feels overwhelming, I think back to that sunrise and remember: no matter how hard the ascent, the view is always worth it.