My mother always knew how to lighten the mood and make me laugh. Loosing her was like loosing a piece of myself. Without my mom, I felt so alone; she was my best friend, my other pea in the pod, my partner in adventure, and everything in between. January 24, 2018, marked the beginning of my unexpected journey through grief and self-discovery. The day my father delivered the devastating news – my mother was gone. Suicide had consumed her life. I was only 11 years old trying to cope with the tremendous amount of grief I held. I felt alone in this complicated world. I was drowning in the thought that I could’ve stopped her death if I had spoken up about the gut-wrenching feeling I had the week of her passing. It took months to recognize that her struggle was beyond my control.Throughout a long journey of grief, I was determined to establish my new purpose. Finding my purpose was the hardest battle I had to overcome. I spent my youth dwelling on the idea that it was my fault she died. I didn't sleep for weeks. When my dad got a new girlfriend a few months later I used to hear her voice downstairs while I was supposed to be asleep and I thought it was my mom returning from the dead. As I got older I finally realized that I needed to take this grief and turn it into something positive and stop dwelling on it. Transitioning from elementary school, where I was known as "the girl whose mom died," to a new beginning in South Carolina provided a much-needed fresh start for me to begin my positive change. It was a chance to redefine myself and my purpose. I took every opportunity to pursue my dreams because I knew it was what my mother would've wanted. I have always aspired to be in the healthcare setting, and my mother's passing has made that goal even more significant to me. I desire to pursue medicine so I can help others like her with their struggles. My mother was prescribed medicine without understanding the side effects that came with it. She had persistent ringing ears and was also later put on anti-depressant medication which both ultimately drove her decision to take her life. After fully understanding this situation I had finally discovered what my purpose was. To help others and advocate for future patients. One way I took action towards this passion was by obtaining my Nurse Aide certification, which has now led me to college as a nursing major. I have learned that nurses are the bridge of understanding between doctors and patient understanding. I aim to leave a meaningful impact in the lives of those I care for. Today, as a thriving young adult, the grief and sorrow I once held don’t hold me back anymore. Throughout my experience, I faced significant personal challenges that revealed an inner strength I hold. The biggest thing I learned during this tragedy was that you can be the light during the negative times and change your future for the better. In memory of my mother, I strive to live each day with my newfound purpose, while having compassion for those who suffer along the grief journey like I did. While I still grieve about my mothers passing I am so grateful to have learned more about myself from this tragedy. I’m eager to see what the future holds for me and my newfound purpose.

Losing a loved one is never easy, especially your mother. Throughout a long journey of grief, I was determined to establish my new purpose. Finding my purpose was the hardest battle I had to overcome. Without my mom, I felt so alone; she was my best friend, my other pea in the pod, my partner in adventure, and everything in between. January 24, 2018, marked the beginning of my unexpected journey through grief and self-discovery. The day my father delivered the devastating news – my mother was gone. Suicide had consumed her life. I was only 11 years old trying to cope with the tremendous amount of grief I held. I felt alone in this complicated world. I was drowning in the thought that I could’ve stopped her death if I had spoken up about the gut-wrenching feeling I had the week of her passing. It took months to recognize that her struggle was beyond my control. I spent my youth dwelling on the idea that it was my fault she died. I was traumatized just from watching my favorite tv show at the time "Riverdale" due to a suicide in the show. I didn't sleep for weeks. When my dad got a new girlfriend a few months later I used to hear her voice downstairs while I was supposed to be asleep and I thought it was my mom returning from the dead. As I got older I finally realized that I needed to take this grief and turn it into something positive and stop dwelling on it. Transitioning from elementary school, where I was known as "the girl whose mom died," to a new beginning in South Carolina provided a much-needed fresh start for me to begin my positive change. It was a chance to redefine myself and my purpose. I took every opportunity to pursue my dreams because I knew it was what my mother would've wanted. I have always aspired to be in the healthcare setting, and my mother's passing has made that goal even more significant to me. I desire to pursue medicine so I can help others like her with their struggles. My mother was prescribed medicine without understanding the side effects that came with it. She had persistent ringing ears and was also later put on anti-depressant medication which both ultimately drove her decision to take her life. After fully understanding this situation I had finally discovered what my purpose was. To help others and advocate for future patients. One way I took action towards this passion was by obtaining my Nurse Aide certification, which has now led me to college as a nursing major. I have learned that nurses are the bridge of understanding between doctors and patient understanding. I aim to leave a meaningful impact in the lives of those I care for. Today, as a thriving young adult, the grief and sorrow I once held don’t hold me back anymore. Throughout my experience, I faced significant personal challenges that revealed an inner strength I hold. The biggest thing I learned during this tragedy was that you can be the light during the negative times and change your future for the better. In memory of my mother, I strive to live each day with my newfound purpose, while having compassion for those who suffer along the grief journey like I did. While I still grieve about my mothers passing I am so grateful to have learned more about myself from this tragedy. I’m eager to see what the future holds for me and my newfound purpose.

Pursuing a degree in nursing has been my goal since I was little, its been my passion for helping others and making a meaningful difference in their lives. From a young age, I discovered the joy that comes with serving others, whether it was volunteering at local events, assisting classmates with schoolwork, or offering comfort to my friends. These experiences helped me realize my purpose in life is to help others, a realization that has grown stronger through my academic and personal journey. Becoming a nurse will allow me to fulfill this purpose every day by providing care, compassion, and support to patients during some of their most vulnerable moments. My desire to pursue nursing was solidified through my experiences as a Certified Nurse Aide. Working closely with residents in a healthcare setting exposed me to the impact that empathetic care can have on individuals and their families. I have witnessed how a simple smile, a listening ear, or reassurance can bring comfort to patients facing physical and emotional challenges. These moments have been eye-opening and inspiring, reinforcing my goals to becoming a nurse who not only attends to the physical needs of patients but also offers emotional support and advocacy for each and every patient of mine. Furthermore, my academic preparation has been adjusted to ensure my readiness for a rigorous nursing program. I have even taken extra science courses and medical classes, such as EKG and Medical Terminology, to build a strong foundation of knowledge that I will use later in nursing school. These classes have not only equipped me with practical skills but have also deepened my understanding of the human body. Graduating with a CNA certification and over 40 hours of hands-on patient care experience has prepared me to transition seamlessly into the clinical aspects of nursing school. These experiences have given me confidence in my ability to excel academically and professionally in the nursing field. As a nurse, I hope to contribute to my community by providing holistic, patient-centered care. I am particularly interested in pediatric oncology, where I aspire to work with children and their families during some of the most challenging times. Beyond the clinical setting, I plan to engage in community outreach programs, educating families about preventive care and resources available to them. By building strong relationships and fostering trust, I aim to be a positive force in my community, advocating for the well-being of individuals from all walks of life. In addition, my background in dance has taught me invaluable lessons that I plan to incorporate into my nursing career. Dance has instilled in me a strong work ethic, perseverance, and the ability to collaborate effectively with others. Overcoming challenges such as recovering from a six-week injury has shown me the importance of resilience and adaptability—qualities that are essential in the nursing profession. I believe these experiences will allow me to connect with patients on a deeper level, offering them encouragement during their recovery. In conclusion, nursing is more than a career choice for me; it is a chance to serve others with compassion, empathy, and dedication. Through my education and experiences, I am determined to become a nurse who not only provides exceptional care but also uplifts and inspires those around me. I look forward to the opportunity to make a lasting impact on my community by promoting health, advocating for patients, and bringing comfort and healing to those in need.

Pursuing a degree in nursing has been my goal since I was little, its been my passion for helping others and making a meaningful difference in their lives. From a young age, I discovered the joy that comes with serving others, whether it was volunteering at local events, assisting classmates with schoolwork, or offering comfort to my friends. These experiences helped me realize my purpose in life is to help others, a realization that has grown stronger through my academic and personal journey. Becoming a nurse will allow me to fulfill this purpose every day by providing care, compassion, and support to patients during some of their most vulnerable moments. My desire to pursue nursing was solidified through my experiences as a Certified Nurse Aide. Working closely with residents in a healthcare setting exposed me to the impact that empathetic care can have on individuals and their families. I have witnessed how a simple smile, a listening ear, or reassurance can bring comfort to patients facing physical and emotional challenges. These moments have been eye-opening and inspiring, reinforcing my goals to becoming a nurse who not only attends to the physical needs of patients but also offers emotional support and advocacy for each and every patient of mine. Furthermore, my academic preparation has been adjusted to ensure my readiness for a rigorous nursing program. I have even taken extra science courses and medical classes, such as EKG and Medical Terminology, to build a strong foundation of knowledge that I will use later in nursing school. These classes have not only equipped me with practical skills but have also deepened my understanding of the human body. Graduating with a CNA certification and over 40 hours of hands-on patient care experience has prepared me to transition seamlessly into the clinical aspects of nursing school. These experiences have given me confidence in my ability to excel academically and professionally in the nursing field. As a nurse, I hope to contribute to my community by providing holistic, patient-centered care. I am particularly interested in pediatric oncology, where I aspire to work with children and their families during some of the most challenging times. Beyond the clinical setting, I plan to engage in community outreach programs, educating families about preventive care and resources available to them. By building strong relationships and fostering trust, I aim to be a positive force in my community, advocating for the well-being of individuals from all walks of life. Through my education and experiences, I am determined to become a nurse who not only provides exceptional care but also uplifts and inspires those around me. I look forward to the opportunity to make a lasting impact on my community by promoting health, advocating for patients, and bringing comfort and healing to those in need.

Pursuing a degree in nursing has been my goal since I was little, its been my passion for helping others and making a meaningful difference in their lives. From a young age, I discovered the joy that comes with serving others, whether it was volunteering at local events, assisting classmates with schoolwork, or offering comfort to my friends. These experiences helped me realize my purpose in life is to help others, a realization that has grown stronger through my academic and personal journey. Becoming a nurse will allow me to fulfill this purpose every day by providing care, compassion, and support to patients during some of their most vulnerable moments. My desire to pursue nursing was solidified through my experiences as a Certified Nurse Aide. Working closely with residents in a healthcare setting exposed me to the impact that empathetic care can have on individuals and their families. I have witnessed how a simple smile, a listening ear, or reassurance can bring comfort to patients facing physical and emotional challenges. These moments have been eye-opening and inspiring, reinforcing my goals to becoming a nurse who not only attends to the physical needs of patients but also offers emotional support and advocacy for each and every patient of mine. Furthermore, my academic preparation has been adjusted to ensure my readiness for a rigorous nursing program. I have even taken extra science courses and medical classes, such as EKG and Medical Terminology, to build a strong foundation of knowledge that I will use later in nursing school. These classes have not only equipped me with practical skills but have also deepened my understanding of the human body. Graduating with a CNA certification and over 40 hours of hands-on patient care experience has prepared me to transition seamlessly into the clinical aspects of nursing school. These experiences have given me confidence in my ability to excel academically and professionally in the nursing field. As a nurse, I hope to contribute to my community by providing holistic, patient-centered care. I am particularly interested in pediatric oncology, where I aspire to work with children and their families during some of the most challenging times. Beyond the clinical setting, I plan to engage in community outreach programs, educating families about preventive care and resources available to them. By building strong relationships and fostering trust, I aim to be a positive force in my community, advocating for the well-being of individuals from all walks of life. In addition, my background in dance has taught me invaluable lessons that I plan to incorporate into my nursing career. Dance has instilled in me a strong work ethic, perseverance, and the ability to collaborate effectively with others. Overcoming challenges such as recovering from a six-week injury has shown me the importance of resilience and adaptability—qualities that are essential in the nursing profession. I believe these experiences will allow me to connect with patients on a deeper level, offering them encouragement during their recovery. In conclusion, nursing is more than a career choice for me; it is a chance to serve others with compassion, empathy, and dedication. Through my education and experiences, I am determined to become a nurse who not only provides exceptional care but also uplifts and inspires those around me. I look forward to the opportunity to make a lasting impact on my community by promoting health, advocating for patients, and bringing comfort and healing to those in need.

Pursuing a degree in nursing has been my goal since I was little, its been my passion for helping others and making a meaningful difference in their lives. From a young age, I discovered the joy that comes with serving others, whether it was volunteering at local events, assisting classmates with schoolwork, or offering comfort to my friends. These experiences helped me realize my purpose in life is to help others, a realization that has grown stronger through my academic and personal journey. Becoming a nurse will allow me to fulfill this purpose every day by providing care, compassion, and support to patients during some of their most vulnerable moments. My desire to pursue nursing was solidified through my experiences as a Certified Nurse Aide. Working closely with residents in a healthcare setting exposed me to the impact that empathetic care can have on individuals and their families. I have witnessed how a simple smile, a listening ear, or reassurance can bring comfort to patients facing physical and emotional challenges. These moments have been eye-opening and inspiring, reinforcing my goals to becoming a nurse who not only attends to the physical needs of patients but also offers emotional support and advocacy for each and every patient of mine. Furthermore, my academic preparation has been adjusted to ensure my readiness for a rigorous nursing program. I have even taken extra science courses and medical classes, such as EKG and Medical Terminology, to build a strong foundation of knowledge that I will use later in nursing school. These classes have not only equipped me with practical skills but have also deepened my understanding of the human body. Graduating with a CNA certification and over 40 hours of hands-on patient care experience has prepared me to transition seamlessly into the clinical aspects of nursing school. These experiences have given me confidence in my ability to excel academically and professionally in the nursing field. As a nurse, I hope to contribute to my community by providing holistic, patient-centered care. I am particularly interested in pediatric oncology, where I aspire to work with children and their families during some of the most challenging times. Beyond the clinical setting, I plan to engage in community outreach programs, educating families about preventive care and resources available to them. By building strong relationships and fostering trust, I aim to be a positive force in my community, advocating for the well-being of individuals from all walks of life. In addition, my background in dance has taught me invaluable lessons that I plan to incorporate into my nursing career. Dance has instilled in me a strong work ethic, perseverance, and the ability to collaborate effectively with others. Overcoming challenges such as recovering from a six-week injury has shown me the importance of resilience and adaptability—qualities that are essential in the nursing profession. I believe these experiences will allow me to connect with patients on a deeper level, offering them encouragement during their recovery. In conclusion, nursing is more than a career choice for me; it is a chance to serve others with compassion, empathy, and dedication. Through my education and experiences, I am determined to become a nurse who not only provides exceptional care but also uplifts and inspires those around me. I look forward to the opportunity to make a lasting impact on my community by promoting health, advocating for patients, and bringing comfort and healing to those in need.

Being a dancer as a student-athlete in high school comes with so many challenges. One of the biggest obstacles is that us dancers are not always recognized as athletes, which means we often miss out on a chunk of the benefits and support that other sports teams receive. Although dance doesn’t involve throwing a ball across a field, it demands just as much physical exertion and mental toughness. Dancers constantly push their bodies to the limit, resulting in multiple different injuries like fractured shins and spine issues, both of which I have personally experienced. Additionally, the mental challenges that come with dance, such as performance pressure, maintaining confidence, and the feeling of being judged are often overlooked. Despite these struggles, I have learned so many important lessons that extend way beyond the studio. I’ve discovered the importance of perseverance and how hard work truly pays off. Overcoming injuries and setbacks has shown me that success doesn’t come easily but requires dedication and resilience. While being injured wasn't ideal, it taught me a lot being able to watch and learn from my teammates as they danced. I also learned that being a student-athlete means balancing academics and sports. As much as I love dance, I’ve had to remind myself that being a student comes first, hence "Student" athlete. Maintaining this balance was often a challenge for me because Ive always has such a big heart for dance. Moreover, I’ve realized that dance is not just an individual sport—it’s a team effort. My teammates play a significant role in our overall success as a team, and I’ve learned how essential it is to be a supportive and reliable team member. Injured or not I was still there to support and be a part of the team I was committed to. My experience as a dancer has taught me to value teamwork, communication, and collaboration, all of which are critical skills both on and off the dance floor. These lessons have not only shaped me as a dancer but have also prepared me for future challenges as a student-athlete in college. I've decided that dance will continue to be a part of my life especially in college so I am glad I have learned the lessons to being successful early. The perseverance, discipline, and teamwork I’ve developed will continue to guide me in both my academic and athletic pursuits, helping me grow into a more well-rounded and resilient individual.

Pursuing a degree in nursing has been my goal since I was little, its been my passion for helping others and making a meaningful difference in their lives. From a young age, I discovered the joy that comes with serving others, whether it was volunteering at local events, assisting classmates with schoolwork, or offering comfort to my friends. These experiences helped me realize my purpose in life is to help others, a realization that has grown stronger through my academic and personal journey. Becoming a nurse will allow me to fulfill this purpose every day by providing care, compassion, and support to patients during some of their most vulnerable moments. My desire to pursue nursing was solidified through my experiences as a Certified Nurse Aide. Working closely with residents in a healthcare setting exposed me to the impact that empathetic care can have on individuals and their families. I have witnessed how a simple smile, a listening ear, or reassurance can bring comfort to patients facing physical and emotional challenges. These moments have been eye-opening and inspiring, reinforcing my goals to becoming a nurse who not only attends to the physical needs of patients but also offers emotional support and advocacy for each and every patient of mine. Furthermore, my academic preparation has been adjusted to ensure my readiness for a rigorous nursing program. I have even taken extra science courses and medical classes, such as EKG and Medical Terminology, to build a strong foundation of knowledge that I will use later in nursing school. These classes have not only equipped me with practical skills but have also deepened my understanding of the human body. Graduating with a CNA certification and over 40 hours of hands-on patient care experience has prepared me to transition seamlessly into the clinical aspects of nursing school. These experiences have given me confidence in my ability to excel academically and professionally in the nursing field. As a nurse, I hope to contribute to my community by providing holistic, patient-centered care. I am particularly interested in pediatric oncology, where I aspire to work with children and their families during some of the most challenging times. Beyond the clinical setting, I plan to engage in community outreach programs, educating families about preventive care and resources available to them. By building strong relationships and fostering trust, I aim to be a positive force in my community, advocating for the well-being of individuals from all walks of life. In addition, my background in dance has taught me invaluable lessons that I plan to incorporate into my nursing career. Dance has instilled in me a strong work ethic, perseverance, and the ability to collaborate effectively with others. Overcoming challenges such as recovering from a six-week injury has shown me the importance of resilience and adaptability—qualities that are essential in the nursing profession. I believe these experiences will allow me to connect with patients on a deeper level, offering them encouragement during their recovery. In conclusion, nursing is more than a career choice for me; it is a chance to serve others with compassion, empathy, and dedication. Through my education and experiences, I am determined to become a nurse who not only provides exceptional care but also uplifts and inspires those around me. I look forward to the opportunity to make a lasting impact on my community by promoting health, advocating for patients, and bringing comfort and healing to those in need.

Nursing, the field that calls to those with both a deep compassion for others and a genuine passion for medicine. For me this calling became evident when I was given the opportunity to work as a certified nurse aide where the desire to make a meaningful impact on others' lives became my passion. The loss of my mother at the age of 11 was a large factor that led me to the nursing field it gave me empathy for those facing difficult times. It was during this time that I realized the importance of care, compassion, and support in the healing process, which made my decision to pursue nursing. As I grew older, the passion to help others also continued to grow. It was my experience as a nurse aide that solidified that nursing was the pathway for me and my passions. As a future nurse I aim to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those that I care for. Nursing is the perfect pathway to me as it is a great blend of science and compassion. In order to be a nurse you must have a heart for those you assist along with a passion for science and medicine. I aspire to be an advocate for my patients, a shoulder for them to lean on, and someone who they can trust in their care. Loosing my mother at 11 was a leading factor in my decision to pursue nursing. Watching her suffer with little support from medical professionals was daunting to watch. I never want another family to feel the way mine did regarding my mother. I aim to be the nurse that cares for her patients as a whole not just the medical aspect. Being a nurse would be very rewarding as I would get to help others at their lowest points in their lives and hopefully help them get back up on their feet. My experiences have taught me that empathy, resilience, and a strong work ethic are crucial qualities necessary in this profession, and I am eager to bring these qualities to my future career as a nurse. Having the ability to help others throughout their care and rough patches makes me feel good knowing I'm leaving a positive impact on their lives even during the hard days. Being a nurse will ultimately be the most rewarding pathway I could go down. Im eager to see what the future holds for me and my passion of nursing. In conclusion, my love of helping others and passion in science and medicine has ultimately led me to the pathway that I am heading down. Nursing is the field where I can merge these aspects of my life to create a lasting impact. With nursing as my field of interest I can fulfill my own goals while helping others achieve theirs.

Losing my mom at just 11 years old was a moment that changed my life completely. It was an overwhelming loss that could have left me feeling hopeless forever. Instead, I didn't let it become a weight on my shoulders, I used the situation to create strength, resilience, and compassion in me. Watching my mother battle her illness and seeing the nurses who cared for her inspired me to pursue a nursing career. I want to be there for others like the nurses were for my mom. My mom’s passing didn’t just teach me how hard life is; it also showed me the difference caregivers can make in ones journey. I plan to carry this lesson forward as a pediatric oncology nurse, helping children and their families navigate difficult journeys with compassion, positivity, and hope. To prepare for my future, I’ve committed myself to both academic and personal growth. I will graduate in May 2025 with a Certified Nurse Aide certification and over 40 hours of patient care. Through this time, I’ve seen how even just small acts of kindness—like holding a resident’s hand or listening to their stories—can brighten up someone’s day. Its moments like these that make me realize nursing is more than just a job, its a way to make a meaningful and positive impact in people’s lives. I want to make a positive impact on the world by being more than just an average nurse. I want to be a source of comfort and encouragement for all of my patients, helping them feel supported not only physically but emotionally as well. Whether it’s through a little smile, a reassuring word, or advocacy, I aim to create a place where every patient feels valued and understood. I want to be the nurse that my patients remember for advocating for them or for sitting with them during tough times. My ultimate goal is to leave a legacy of kindness and positivity, one interaction at a time, and to instill hope in every circumstance. The journey ahead is filled with hard work and obstacles, but I am so ready for it. My personal experiences have given me the strength to persevere, and my passion for helping others fuels my drive to succeed. Nursing is my way of honoring my mom’s memory and making the world a better place. I am eager to see what the future holds for me and my future patients.

An hour before bedtime, my mom would play the Beach Boys' “Good Vibrations.” We’d dance around the house, screaming the lyrics. She always knew how to bring joy into any moment. Losing her was like losing a piece of my own spirit and sense of purpose. Losing a loved one is never easy, especially your mother. Throughout a long journey of grief, I was determined to establish my new purpose. Finding my purpose was the hardest battle I had to overcome. Without my mom, I felt so alone; she was my best friend, my other pea in the pod, my partner in adventure, and everything in between. Without her, who was I? January 24, 2018, marked the beginning of my unexpected journey through grief and self-discovery. My grandma picked me up from school rather than my mom, who was supposedly at a doctor's appointment, and my father who was out of town. A few hours at my grandma's house rolled by and out of boredom, I crafted a get-well card for my mom who was suffering from tinnitus. I showed my grandma the card, unaware of the weight it carried. While I was sitting on the couch, my dad entered the front door. My heart sank into my chest, and my entire body went numb. He pulled me aside and delivered the devastating news – my mother passed. Suicide had consumed her life. The first year after the tragedy was the hardest year of my life. I was only 11 years old trying to cope with the tremendous amount of grief I held. Though I had a strong support system, nothing filled the gap in my heart. I was drowning in the thought that I could’ve stopped her death if I had spoken up about the gut-wrenching feeling I had the week of her passing. It took months to recognize that her struggle was beyond my control. Once I overcame that, I was able to start healing. I began to carve out a path for myself, one I knew she would be proud of. Transitioning from elementary school, where I was known as "the girl whose mom died," to a new beginning in South Carolina provided a much-needed fresh start. It was a chance to redefine myself and my purpose. I've taken every opportunity to pursue my dreams because I knew it's what my mother would've wanted. I’m now defining the life I want to live. I've always aspired to pursue medicine, my mother's passing has made that goal even more significant to me. I desire to pursue medicine so I can help others like her with their struggles. I have pushed myself over the years to uncover my purpose and found that my calling is to help others. One way I demonstrated this was by obtaining my Nurse Aide certification, where I have the opportunity to help others. I find joy in helping others and seeing my patients' faces light up when I walk into their rooms. I aim to leave a meaningful impact in the lives of those I care for. Today, as a thriving teenager, the grief and sorrow I once held don’t hold me back anymore. My life was completely changed in 2018, but I learned how to challenge myself and persist. I've faced significant personal challenges that revealed an inner strength I hold. In memory of my mother, I strive to live each day with my newfound purpose, while having compassion for those who suffer like I once did. I’m eager to see what the future holds for me and my new purpose.

Change – it's one of the scariest words in the dictionary, at least for me. Change is a constant part of everyone’s life, yet understanding how I want to make a change in mine has always been a challenging concept. However, I've come to realize that change is a large stepping stone towards achieving my goals. Change will forever be a hard concept for me to deal with but while I may not always be able to change my life in big ways, I am determined to make a positive impact on the lives of others. My long term goal is to become a pediatric oncology nurse. Throughout my high school journey, I have taken multiple steps to set myself on the right path toward nursing school. By the time I graduate in May 2025, I will have earned my Certified Nurse Aide certification and gained over 40 hours of hands-on, one-on-one patient care experience along with hopefully taking a job internship at a local hospital. I take pride in the way I interact with patients, and there’s nothing more rewarding than seeing their faces light up when I walk into their rooms. Additionally, I've taken extra science courses and medical classes during high school, such as EKG and Medical Terminology, to ensure I’m well-prepared for future studies in nursing. Although my family has set aside money for my college education, pursuing a nursing career is still a significant financial commitment. This is why I believe this scholarship would be incredibly beneficial to my education. It would help decrease some of the financial burden I hold, allowing me to focus more on my studies. Moreover, writing this essay has given me the opportunity to reflect on my goals and how I intend to achieve them. I aspire to leave a lasting, positive impact on the lives of those I care for. My way of paying it forward to others is by ensuring that I bring about positive changes in my patients' lives. Nursing is more than just administering medication; it’s about treating patients holistically, which includes their mental health and well-being. I am confident that I will be a compassionate and dedicated nurse, and I look forward to sharing the lessons I've learned about change and setting goals with my future patients. While change may be challenging for me personally, I am committed to helping others navigate changes in their lives with positivity and hope.

Losing a loved one is never easy, especially your mother. Throughout a long journey of grief, I was determined to establish my new purpose. Finding my purpose was the hardest battle I had to overcome. Without my mom, I felt so alone; she was my best friend, my other pea in the pod, my partner in adventure, and everything in between. I constantly asked myself, “Without her, who was I?” January 24, 2018, marked the beginning of my unexpected journey through grief and self-discovery. My grandma picked me up from school rather than my mom, who was supposedly at a doctor's appointment, and my father who was out of town. A few hours at my grandma's house rolled by and out of boredom, I crafted a get-well card for my mom who was suffering from tinnitus. I showed my grandma the card, unaware of the weight it carried at that moment. While I was sitting on the couch, my dad entered the front door. My heart sank into my chest, and my entire body went numb. He pulled me aside and delivered the devastating news – my mother was gone. Suicide had consumed her life. The first year after the tragedy was the hardest year of my life. I was only 11 years old trying to cope with the tremendous amount of grief I held. I felt alone in this complicated world. Though I had a strong support system, nothing filled the gap in my heart my mom once held. I was drowning in the thought that I could’ve stopped her death if I had spoken up about the gut-wrenching feeling I had the week of her passing. It took months to recognize that her struggle was beyond my control. Once I overcame that battle, I was able to start healing. I began to carve out a path for myself, a path I knew she would be proud of. Transitioning from elementary school, where I was known as "the girl whose mom died," to a new beginning in South Carolina provided a much-needed fresh start. It was a chance to redefine myself and my purpose. I took every opportunity to pursue my dreams because I knew it was what my mother would've wanted. I’m now discovering who I am and defining the life I want to live. I have always aspired to pursue medicine, and my mother's passing has made that goal even more significant to me. I desire to pursue medicine so I can help others like her with their struggles. I have pushed myself over the years to uncover my purpose and found that my calling is to help others. One way I demonstrated this was by obtaining my Nurse Aide certification, where I have the opportunity to help others. I find joy in helping others and seeing my patients' faces light up when I walk into their rooms. I aim to leave a meaningful impact in the lives of those I care for. Today, as a thriving teenager, the grief and sorrow I once held don’t hold me back anymore. My life was completely changed in 2018, but I learned how to challenge myself and persist. Throughout my experience, I faced significant personal challenges that revealed an inner strength I hold. In memory of my mother, I strive to live each day with my newfound purpose, while having compassion for those who suffer along the grief journey like I did. I’m eager to see what the future holds for me and my new purpose.

My name is Ava Kobak, and I am a person who is highly passionate about helping others and making a positive impact in their lives. Growing up, I faced challenges that shaped my character and inspired me to pursue a career in medicine. The main experience that influenced my path was the loss of my mother when I was 11 years old. This heartbreaking event created a strong empathy in me for those going through difficult times and showed me the importance of compassion, care, and support in the healing process, which made my decision to pursue nursing. As I grew older, the passion to help others also continued to grow. It was my experience as a nurse aide that solidified that nursing was the pathway for me and my passions. As a future nurse I aim to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those that I care for. Nursing is the perfect pathway to me as it is a great blend of science and compassion. In order to be a nurse you must have a heart for those you assist along with a passion for science and medicine. I aspire to be an advocate for my patients, a shoulder for them to lean on, and someone who they can trust in their care. Loosing my mother at 11 was a leading factor in my decision to pursue healthcare, specifically nursing. Watching her suffer with little support from medical professionals was daunting to watch. I never want another family to feel the way mine did regarding my mother. Her journey has been my inspiration. I aim to be the nurse that cares for her patients as a whole not just the medical aspect. Being a nurse would be very rewarding as I would get to help others at their lowest points in their lives and hopefully help them get back up on their feet. My experiences have taught me that empathy, resilience, and a strong work ethic are crucial qualities necessary in this profession, and I am eager to bring these qualities to my future career as a nurse. Having the ability to help others throughout their care and rough patches makes me feel good knowing I'm leaving a positive impact on their lives even during the hard days. Being a nurse will ultimately be the most rewarding pathway I could go down. Im eager to see what the future holds for me and my passion of nursing. In conclusion, my mothers journey and my love of helping others have ultimately led me to the pathway that I am heading down. Healthcare is the field where I can merge different aspects of my life to create a lasting impact. With nursing as my field of interest I can fulfill my own goals while helping others achieve theirs.

Nursing, the field that calls to those with both a deep compassion for others and a genuine passion for medicine. For me this calling became evident when I was given the opportunity to work as a certified nurse aide where the desire to make a meaningful impact on others' lives became my passion. The loss of my mother at the age of 11 was a large factor that led me to the nursing field it gave me empathy for those facing difficult times. It was during this time that I realized the importance of care, compassion, and support in the healing process, which made my decision to pursue nursing. As I grew older, the passion to help others also continued to grow. It was my experience as a nurse aide that solidified that nursing was the pathway for me and my passions. As a future nurse I aim to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those that I care for. Nursing is the perfect pathway to me as it is a great blend of science and compassion. In order to be a nurse you must have a heart for those you assist along with a passion for science and medicine. I aspire to be an advocate for my patients, a shoulder for them to lean on, and someone who they can trust in their care. Loosing my mother at 11 was a leading factor in my decision to pursue nursing. Watching her suffer with little support from medical professionals was daunting to watch. I never want another family to feel the way mine did regarding my mother. I aim to be the nurse that cares for her patients as a whole not just the medical aspect. Being a nurse would be very rewarding as I would get to help others at their lowest points in their lives and help them get back up on their feet. My experiences have taught me that empathy, resilience, and a strong work ethic are crucial qualities necessary in this profession, and I am eager to bring these qualities to my future career as a pediatric oncology nurse. Having the ability to help others throughout their care and rough patches makes me feel good knowing I'm leaving a positive impact on their lives even during the hard days. I especially want to work in pediatrics because the kids believe in magic, crossing their fingers, and making wishes making them more resilient. Being a nurse will ultimately be the most rewarding pathway I could go down. Im eager to see what the future holds for me and my passion of nursing. In conclusion, my love of helping others and passion in science and medicine has ultimately led me to the pathway that I am heading down. Nursing is the field where I can merge these aspects of my life to create a lasting impact. Along with the science aspect I love caring for children and teenagers which has ultimately led me to want to work in pediatrics. I aim to have a positive impact on every patient I will work with. With nursing as my field of interest I can fulfill my own goals while helping others achieve theirs.

Nursing, the field that calls to those with both a deep compassion for others and a genuine passion for medicine. For me this calling became evident when I was given the opportunity to work as a certified nurse aide where the desire to make a meaningful impact on others' lives became my passion. The loss of my mother at the age of 11 was a large factor that led me to the nursing field it gave me empathy for those facing difficult times. It was during this time that I realized the importance of care, compassion, and support in the healing process, which made my decision to pursue nursing. As I grew older, the passion to help others also continued to grow. It was my experience as a nurse aide that solidified that nursing was the pathway for me and my passions. As a future nurse I aim to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those that I care for. Nursing is the perfect pathway to me as it is a great blend of science and compassion. In order to be a nurse you must have a heart for those you assist along with a passion for science and medicine. I aspire to be an advocate for my patients, a shoulder for them to lean on, and someone who they can trust in their care. Loosing my mother at 11 was a leading factor in my decision to pursue nursing. Watching her suffer with little support from medical professionals was daunting to watch. I never want another family to feel the way mine did regarding my mother. I aim to be the nurse that cares for her patients as a whole not just the medical aspect. Being a nurse would be very rewarding as I would get to help others at their lowest points in their lives and help them get back up on their feet. My experiences have taught me that empathy, resilience, and a strong work ethic are crucial qualities necessary in this profession, and I am eager to bring these qualities to my future career as a pediatric oncology nurse. Having the ability to help others throughout their care and rough patches makes me feel good knowing I'm leaving a positive impact on their lives even during the hard days. I especially want to work in pediatrics because the kids believe in magic, crossing their fingers, and making wishes which makes them more resilient. Being a nurse will ultimately be the most rewarding pathway I could go down. Im eager to see what the future holds for me and my passion of nursing. In conclusion, my love of helping others and passion in science and medicine has ultimately led me to the pathway that I am heading down. Nursing is the field where I can merge these aspects of my life to create a lasting impact. Along with the science aspect I love caring for children and teenagers which has ultimately led me to want to work in pediatrics. With nursing as my field of interest I can fulfill my own goals while helping others achieve theirs.

Nursing, the field that calls to those with both a deep compassion for others and a genuine passion for medicine. For me this calling became evident when I was given the opportunity to work as a certified nurse aide where the desire to make a meaningful impact on others' lives became my passion. The loss of my mother at the age of 11 was a large factor that led me to the nursing field it gave me empathy for those facing difficult times. It was during this time that I realized the importance of care, compassion, and support in the healing process, which made my decision to pursue nursing. As I grew older, the passion to help others also continued to grow. It was my experience as a nurse aide that solidified that nursing was the pathway for me and my passions. As a future nurse I aim to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those that I care for. Nursing is the perfect pathway to me as it is a great blend of science and compassion. In order to be a nurse you must have a heart for those you assist along with a passion for science and medicine. I aspire to be an advocate for my patients, a shoulder for them to lean on, and someone who they can trust in their care. Loosing my mother at 11 was a leading factor in my decision to pursue nursing. Watching her suffer with little support from medical professionals was daunting to watch. I never want another family to feel the way mine did regarding my mother. I aim to be the nurse that cares for her patients as a whole not just the medical aspect. Being a nurse would be very rewarding as I would get to help others at their lowest points in their lives and hopefully help them get back up on their feet. My experiences have taught me that empathy, resilience, and a strong work ethic are crucial qualities necessary in this profession, and I am eager to bring these qualities to my future career as a nurse. Having the ability to help others throughout their care and rough patches makes me feel good knowing I'm leaving a positive impact on their lives even during the hard days. Being a nurse will ultimately be the most rewarding pathway I could go down. Im eager to see what the future holds for me and my passion of nursing. In conclusion, my love of helping others and passion in science and medicine has ultimately led me to the pathway that I am heading down. Nursing is the field where I can merge these aspects of my life to create a lasting impact. With nursing as my field of interest I can fulfill my own goals while helping others achieve theirs.

Nursing, the field that calls to those with both a deep compassion for others and a genuine passion for medicine. For me this calling became evident when I was given the opportunity to work as a certified nurse aide where the desire to make a meaningful impact on others' lives became my passion. The loss of my mother at the age of 11 was a large factor that led me to the nursing field it gave me empathy for those facing difficult times. It was during this time that I realized the importance of care, compassion, and support in the healing process, which made my decision to pursue nursing. As I grew older, the passion to help others also continued to grow. It was my experience as a nurse aide that solidified that nursing was the pathway for me and my passions. As a future nurse I aim to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those that I care for. Nursing is the perfect pathway to me as it is a great blend of science and compassion. In order to be a nurse you must have a heart for those you assist along with a passion for science and medicine. I aspire to be an advocate for my patients, a shoulder for them to lean on, and someone who they can trust in their care. Loosing my mother at 11 was a leading factor in my decision to pursue nursing. Watching her suffer with little support from medical professionals was daunting to watch. I never want another family to feel the way mine did regarding my mother. I aim to be the nurse that cares for her patients as a whole not just the medical aspect. Being a nurse would be very rewarding as I would get to help others at their lowest points in their lives and hopefully help them get back up on their feet. My experiences have taught me that empathy, resilience, and a strong work ethic are crucial qualities necessary in this profession, and I am eager to bring these qualities to my future career as a nurse. Having the ability to help others throughout their care and rough patches makes me feel good knowing I'm leaving a positive impact on their lives even during the hard days. Being a nurse will ultimately be the most rewarding pathway I could go down. Im eager to see what the future holds for me and my passion of nursing. In conclusion, my love of helping others and passion in science and medicine has ultimately led me to the pathway that I am heading down. Nursing is the field where I can merge these aspects of my life to create a lasting impact. With nursing as my field of interest I can fulfill my own goals while helping others achieve theirs.

Loosing my mother was the hardest battle of my life. I was only 11 years old trying to cope with the tremendous amount of grief I held. Though I had a strong support system, nothing filled the gap in my heart my mom once held. That was until dance became a part of my life. It began as a way to cope with the pain but then later evolved into a passion that has since become a huge part of who I am today. Dance at first was just an after school activity I used to escape my everyday life. I needed something to occupy my mind, and fill the void of my mother. In the early days dance was a way to express myself in ways that words never could. Even when I wasn't on a top level dance team, just doing basic movements that let me express my emotions was something I found comfort in. As I continued to dance I found that it was more than just an after school activity. I fell in love with the sport. Growing as a dancer and finding my place at a studio where I created life long friendships and put blood, sweat and tears into practices was the best thing that I could have done. Dance became a huge part of me as it was a way to channel emotions and showed me the strength I didn’t know I had, a strength that my mother’s death had created in me. The loss of my mother taught me the value of finding beauty and purpose even during the darkest of times. Dance helped show that to me, during my darkest moments I still managed to find myself laughing and goofing off at the studio with my friends even after the toughest days. I carried all of the lessons from my mother and applied it to everything I did including dance. Whenever I dance it feels like I am keeping a part of her alive, honoring her memory. As the years went by dance became more than just something I loved; it became my identity. I dance on my schools varsity team, pushed myself to audition and make a highly competitive studio team, and dedicate countless hours rehearsing and perfecting my routines. Throughout it all I gained the understanding that even during tough times beautiful things can emerge and create a light during the dark days. Dance has brought so much more than I ever expected. It has brought me joy, fulfillment, and a sense of purpose. It has allowed me to connect with others who share the same passion as me and to express myself in ways that words never could. Most importantly out of everything dance has given me, it has given me a way to honor my mother’s memory every single day. In a way, my mothers death has led me to uncover the things I love most in my life. While I would do anything to get her back, I am very grateful for the strength and compassion that her loss brought into me. Dance has been the greatest way of dealing with the grief and emotions I had while uncovering something beautiful during a dark time. Through dance, I carry her with me, always.

Nursing, the field that calls to those with both a deep compassion for others and a genuine passion for medicine. For me this calling became evident when I was given the opportunity to work as a certified nurse aide where the desire to make a meaningful impact on others' lives became my passion. The loss of my mother at the age of 11 was a large factor that led me to the nursing field it gave me empathy for those facing difficult times. It was during this time that I realized the importance of care, compassion, and support in the healing process, which made my decision to pursue nursing. As I grew older, the passion to help others also continued to grow. It was my experience as a nurse aide that solidified that nursing was the pathway for me and my passions. As a future nurse I aim to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those that I care for. Nursing is the perfect pathway to me as it is a great blend of science and compassion. In order to be a nurse you must have a heart for those you assist along with a passion for science and medicine. I aspire to be an advocate for my patients, a shoulder for them to lean on, and someone who they can trust in their care. Loosing my mother at 11 was a leading factor in my decision to pursue nursing. Watching her suffer with little support from medical professionals was daunting to watch. I never want another family to feel the way mine did regarding my mother. I aim to be the nurse that cares for her patients as a whole not just the medical aspect. Being a nurse would be very rewarding as I would get to help others at their lowest points in their lives and hopefully help them get back up on their feet. My experiences have taught me that empathy, resilience, and a strong work ethic are crucial qualities necessary in this profession, and I am eager to bring these qualities to my future career as a nurse. Having the ability to help others throughout their care and rough patches makes me feel good knowing I'm leaving a positive impact on their lives even during the hard days. Being a nurse will ultimately be the most rewarding pathway I could go down. Im eager to see what the future holds for me and my passion of nursing. In conclusion, my love of helping others and passion in science and medicine has ultimately led me to the pathway that I am heading down. Nursing is the field where I can merge these aspects of my life to create a lasting impact. With nursing as my field of interest I can fulfill my own goals while helping others achieve theirs.

"Im sorry, I can't sleepover." "Im sorry, I can't try your food I'm allergic." "Im sorry, I can't sit in the grass." These 3 phrases are ingrained into my vocabulary and used in everyday interactions. As a 17-year old who is allergic to animal fur, grass, eggs, turkey, pineapple and some medicines, navigating the world feels like a maze of triggers for my allergies. I am constantly reminded of the limitations imposed by my allergies. Hanging out at friends houses or sleepovers are a large source of anxiety for me. If I were to sleepover I would have to think about food in the mornings and if I would starve not being able to eat whatever was served. This is just one scenario where I feel isolated from all my average friends who can just stuff their faces with any food without a thought and pet peoples animals without big red hives all over their bodies later. As I've matured, I've learned to adapt and embrace my allergies. I have also learned that while I may not be able to share every meal or join every sleepover, I still can create my own version of fun whether thats a movie night at home, going for a run, or practicing my dances for studio. Instead of letting my FOMO (fear of missing out) take control over me I chose to focus on what I can control rather than what I can't. These experiences have brought me to the career of nursing. I aspire to pursue nursing because even though I was able to overcome my struggles on my own others may need assistance in that process, which is exactly what I want to do. I know the feeling of vulnerability and I aspire to help others cope with it in a way that they don't feel ashamed. I want to leave a meaningful impact in the lives of those I will care for. In conclusion, I didn't let my allergies define me rather led me to be the person that I am today. Learning how to cope with FOMO (fear of missing out) at such a young age was honestly a blessing in disguise. Allergies have taught me how to cope with disappointment and how to find joy in any given situation. I hope to continue to grow and pursue my career in nursing where I will help others with their struggles. My goal is to be a nurse who understands medicine but also who has a heart and understands the internal and mental struggles of a patient.

An hour before bedtime, my mom would turn on my radio to the Beach Boys' “Good Vibrations.” We’d dance around the house, screaming the lyrics. She always knew how to bring joy into any moment. Losing her was like losing a piece of my own spirit and sense of purpose. Losing a loved one is never easy, especially your mother. Throughout a long journey of grief, I was determined to establish my new purpose. Finding my purpose was the hardest battle I had to overcome. Without my mom, I felt so alone; she was my best friend, my other pea in the pod, my partner in adventure, and everything in between. January 24, 2018, marked the beginning of my unexpected journey through grief and self-discovery. My grandma picked me up from school rather than my mom, who was supposedly at a doctor's appointment, and my father who was out of town. While I was sitting on the couch with my grandma, my dad entered the front door. My heart sank into my chest, and my entire body went numb. He delivered the devastating news – my mother was gone. Suicide had consumed her life. I was only 11 years old trying to cope with the tremendous amount of grief I held. I felt alone in this complicated world. I was drowning in the thought that I could’ve stopped her death if I had spoken up about the gut-wrenching feeling I had the week of her passing. It took months to recognize that her struggle was beyond my control. Transitioning from elementary school, where I was known as "the girl whose mom died," to a new beginning in South Carolina provided a much-needed fresh start. It was a chance to redefine myself and my purpose. I took every opportunity to pursue my dreams because I knew it was what my mother would've wanted. I have always aspired to pursue medicine, and my mother's passing has made that goal even more significant to me. I desire to pursue medicine so I can help others like her with their struggles. I have pushed myself over the years to uncover my purpose and found that my calling is to help others. One way I demonstrated this was by obtaining my Nurse Aide certification, where I have the opportunity to help others. I find joy in helping others and seeing my patients' faces light up when I walk into their rooms. I aim to leave a meaningful impact in the lives of those I care for. Today, as a thriving teenager, the grief and sorrow I once held don’t hold me back anymore. Throughout my experience, I faced significant personal challenges that revealed an inner strength I hold. In memory of my mother, I strive to live each day with my newfound purpose, while having compassion for those who suffer along the grief journey like I did. I’m eager to see what the future holds for me and my new purpose.

Nursing, the field that calls to those with both a deep compassion for others and a genuine passion for medicine. For me this calling became evident when I was given the opportunity to work as a certified nurse aide where the desire to make a meaningful impact on others' lives became my passion. The loss of my mother at the age of 11 was a large factor that led me to the nursing field it gave me empathy for those facing difficult times. It was during this time that I realized the importance of care, compassion, and support in the healing process, which made my decision to pursue nursing. As I grew older, the passion to help others also continued to grow. It was my experience as a CNA that solidified that nursing was the pathway for me and my passions. As a future nurse I desire to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those that I care for. Nursing is the perfect pathway to me as it is a great blend of science and compassion. In order to be a nurse you must have a heart for those you assist along with a passion for science. I aspire to be an advocate for my patients, a shoulder for them to lean on, and someone who they can trust in their care. My experiences have taught me that empathy, resilience, and a strong work ethic are crucial qualities necessary in this profession, and I am eager to bring these qualities to my future career as a nurse. In conclusion, my love of helping others and passion in science and medicine has ultimately led me to the pathway that I am heading down. Nursing is the field where I can merge these aspects of my life to create a lasting impact. With nursing as my field of interest I can fulfill my own goals while helping others achieve theirs.

Losing a loved one is never easy, especially when that loved one is your mother. My world shifted for the worst on January 24, 2018, when my mother passed away. It is a day ingrained into my memory, marking the beginning of my journey through grief and self-discovery. My mother wasn't just any average mother; she was my best friend, my other pea in the pod, and my partner in adventure. Together, we shared countless memories; walks to the park, making crafts, dancing, and everything in between . She made me the goofy little girl that I was. Without her, I felt as though part of me was missing. 1/24/18 started like any other. I was taken home with my grandmother after school, not knowing the tragedy that awaited me. Sitting at my grandmother's house lost of things to do, I crafted a card for my mom writing the words "get well soon," little did I know the weight of those words. My grandmother gave me a little smile while clearly holding back tears. The moment my dad walked through the door, my heart sank into my chest. My father then delivered the devastating news – my mother was gone. Suicide had consumed her life. My 11 year old heart shattered, I couldn’t imagine going through life without her. I was in disbelief, “there's no way she is really gone” I thought to myself. For many years after her death, I was convinced that I could have somehow prevented her death if only I had spoken up about the awful feeling in my gut. It took time to realize that her struggle was beyond my control. Despite the pain and sorrow of her death, my mother's passing became a motivation for growth. With lots of support, I began to carve out a path for myself to create the life I know she would have been proud of. Transitioning from elementary school, where I was known as "the girl whose mom died," to a new beginning in South Carolina created a fresh start for me and my family. It was a chance to redefine myself and find my purpose. I took every opportunity to pursue my dreams because I know it's what my mother would've wanted. I have always had a goal to pursue medicine and now especially after my mothers passing that goal has been stronger than ever. I desire to pursue medicine so I can help others like her with their struggles. I would hate for someone to go down the same path of losing a loved one as I did. Today, as a thriving teenager the grief and sorrow doesn’t hold me back anymore, I use it to push me to keep chasing after those dreams. Through my mothers passing she provided me with the gift of perspective. In memory of my mother, I strive to live each day with purpose and have compassion for those who also suffered along the grief journey like me. Now I am willing to fight for everything in life. I won't take no for an answer when it comes to my goals and dreams. My mother would have never let me give up so in memory of her I am willing to keep pushing and fighting no matter what comes in my path.

When I was young, my best friend's mom passed away, and I always wondered how she managed to live life to its fullest after that tragedy. That was until a year later, my mom also passed away. This was the largest barrier in my life, and I thought that I would never be myself again. I believed I wouldn't survive this world without my mother, the other pea in my pod. My mother always called me her little goofball, but after she passed away, I lost that trait. Knowing that my best friend got past her large barrier in life, I knew I could do it too. My best friend and I attended school therapy sessions together and managed to get through the grief of losing a parent together. It wasn't easy, but eventually, I reached a point where I was living again. After a few years went by, and I was finally myself again, I was hanging out with friends and excelling in school. My mother's goofball is back. While I still think about my mother often and have days where I wonder, "What could I have done to stop her?" I know that there was nothing in my power to change the past, and I continue to live my life to its fullest potential. I am genuinely happy now, and my mother's passing only made me grow as a woman. I love my life now; the barriers are what make me who I am today, and I would never change that. Learning to face this bump in the road really impacted my relationships and friendships. I value that everyone has things going on in their life, and you might have no idea what someone is going through. Initially, I never told anyone about my mom, so whenever I was feeling down at school, nobody really knew until I shared it. Therefore, I know that other people have problems in their lives that they don't share, so I will ALWAYS be kind to someone and offer my love and support. Because sometimes people are waiting for someone to comfort them. I relied on one of my other friends' mothers who supported me through the death of my mom. She would offer advice about boys, and she even took me to the girl and mom talk in the 5th grade. She really showed me that life would be okay even without my mom. So with that, I want to make sure I always offer that same support in all my relationships because it can make such a difference. Overall, it was a rough journey with lots of bumps in the road, but it made me learn to have more empathy and know how to thrive in hard situations. I am a thriving 17-year-old now with lots of friends and a loving family. I know that in everything I do, my mother is standing behind me, guiding me. I might not be able to see her, but I can feel her. She will always be the other pea in my pod.

My mother and I were inseparable. Growing up my mother was my best friend. We always did fun things together such as hiking, skiing, painting, going for walks, and more. She was always there to cheer me up after a long day of school or just a rough day in general. She was the happiest and funniest person I have ever met. Losing her is still the toughest thing I deal with today. My mom passed away when I was only 11 years old due to suicide. An 11-year-old girl is one of the hardest times to lose a parent, especially your mom. That's the age when a girl needs her mom the most. I was heartbroken when my dad told me the news, I had been at my grandma's house when he informed me in her basement the night of her death. I had never been more upset in my life, I had lost my other half, my best friend. I always blamed myself because I had a gut feeling about her passing, and since I told no one I believed it was my fault. It took me years to finally grow from this tragedy and realize there was nothing I could have done. I was in therapy for a while because I was not doing okay. After some time I finally believed that it wasn't my fault and have then grown as a person. I always look at people now as if I don't know anything going on in their life, you never know what someone is going through. I am more of an open person now and I listen as other people talk about their bad days and problems, as I don't want anyone to feel like they have to do what my mom did. This experience has greatly shaped my life and who I am now. It pushed me to want to major in medicine in college because I want to find a solution to tinnitus (ringing ears) which is what my mom had which led her to suicide. Along with that, her death allowed me to have so many mother figures in my life. For example, my best friend's mom was the one who took me to the maturation talk at school because I didn't want to go alone. She was the same one who would help me with my hair and would talk to me about girly stuff since I no longer had a mother in my life to do so. About a year after my mom passed my dad met a girl and started dating, she is now my stepmom. I'm glad she is now in our lives because it's nice to have that "mother" in the house. While I will never let her replace my mom, it's nice having her around because it reminds me of what it's like to have a mom. I was always just "the girl whose mom died" in elementary and middle school but when I moved across the country I finally got a fresh start. That shaped me as a person more than anything because I finally got to act like myself again. While my mom's death still is a weight on my back it is also a push forward because I know throughout everything I do she is still standing by my side. It will never be easy but I have learned many life lessons throughout this time without her.

My mother and I were inseparable, best friends, 2 peas in a pod, travel buddies, and goofballs until I was forced to let her go. When I was 11 my mom found that she had high blood pressure. Her doctor put her on medication to help but ended up causing her to have ringing ears, also known as Tinnitus. After only a few months of being on this medicine, she committed suicide due to the noises and lack of sleep she was getting. I strongly want to pursue a career in medicine and pharmacy because I believe no one should have to suffer like she did. My mom passing when I was of such a young age had a strong impact on my life. Going through life as a young pre-teen girl without a mom is rough. I realize that the teenage years are when a girl needs her mother the most. Luckily I had lots of support from family and friends and I had many other mother figures in my life. I learned all the "girly" stuff from my best friend's mom who would do my hair, talk to me about boys, and even went with me to the mom and daughter talk at school. While going through my mom's traumatic death was super hard, I grew as a person from it thanks to all the people who surrounded me during the tough times. I grew so much from my mother's death. I learned how to be independent, how to have sympathy for others, and how to regulate my emotions. I am such a strong young woman now and have such a bright future ahead of me. A career in pharmacy is where I am headed. I am determined to find solutions to other people's Tinnitus like my mother's. I believe that no child or anyone should have to lose a loved one due to something as simple as ringing ears. A career in pharmacy where I can study and research tinnitus is the perfect fit for me. I believe that there are plenty of other solutions out there for ringing ears; We just need someone to find them, I believe that person will be me. I will use my mother's death as motivation and drive to find solutions to tinnitus. Where her death was once a weight on my back, it is now a push forward to success. Pharmacy is the way to go and I can't wait to see where this journey takes me.

I've always wanted to build my own house, just imagining a dream house is so exciting! I would start with it being located on a private tropical island with lots of palm trees and white sand. I love the beach and the views from my bedroom balcony would be gorgeous. Lots of plants and trees on the island but none blocking the view to the ocean. There would be a pool and beach volleyball court in my backyard. A tropical island is the perfect location for this house. Now, onto the exterior. The house would be very modern looking but with some highlights of pink. Some white and pink wooden exterior walls are just the look I would go for. I would also add some big windows in larger areas of the house to view the ocean. I would have a 4-car garage that includes, a pink Jeep, jet skis, a boat, a paddleboard, and of course all the beach supplies and chairs! Lastly for the outside, I would have a huge front door with a beautiful stone pathway up to the front porch. The interior is by far my favorite part of the whole house. First off I would have a walk-in closet in all the bedrooms in the house with fabulous clothes. Along with the closet, I would also have a shoe room where you can find any pair of shoes imaginable. Each bedroom in the house will have different themes such as the following: Floral, beachy, hippie, preppy, and jungle themed. Another thing in each bedroom would be a food dispenser where you can order food and it will appear on your table next to your bed. Now my favorite part of the house would be the elevator. But it's not just any elevator, it's a glass elevator where you can view the ocean on your way to a different floor. Lastly, on the very top floor of the house, there would be 2 waterslides, one going into the pool and the other going down to the ocean. I would love to bring this dream house to life one day and be able to live on this beautiful island with my luxurious items. One last thing I would add to this house is my family, it wouldn't be anything without them. Now I have created the perfect dream house, I love it.

"Welcome to New York" is by far my favorite song from Taylor Swift's 1989 album. The song is all about new beginnings and starting over in a new place. I relate to the song which is why I love it so much. I moved across the country when I was only 14 making me have to start over my life. "Welcome to New York" talks about all the exciting possibilities in foreign places and celebrating new beginnings with new people. The line "Welcome to New York, it's been waitin' for you" is such a big contributor to the song because it perfectly describes the feeling of moving into a new place. For example, "It's been waitin' for you" is the perfect line for this because it feels like everyone knows you but you know no one. Making it seem as if people have been waiting for you to arrive. The song also talks about how inclusive and diverse it is in New York creating a positive atmosphere. This song is so powerful in the world of new beginnings which is why I find it very relatable and valuable. The song gives off the message that change can be amazing. "Everybody was someone else before" is such a touching line within the song. It shows how you can be someone new because it is a fresh start. You could be somebody new after you move and nobody there would know. That is such a big message Taylor was trying to send, "Be yourself, be whoever you want to be." Within the song, she also mentions that you can want who you want and I love that because it shows that it doesn't matter where you come from or your background, you are still allowed to love and live your life the way you want to. The whole song has had such a big impact on me and my new life since moving. I'd heard the song before my move but I never actually looked into the lyrics. The meaning behind the song is so much more than it seems. Creating a new lifestyle in a new place can be so hard to do but this song shows a lot of the positives in change. Taylor talks about her real love as "ever-changing" showing that there will always be a change in our lives. "Welcome to New York" perfectly describes it, and will always be one of my favorites.