I’ve spent much of my life caring for others—both at home as a single mom of five and in my career as a Licensed Practical Nurse for 17 years. Those experiences have shaped me into someone who values resilience, compassion, and the ability to meet people where they are in life. Balancing work and family hasn’t always been easy, but it has taught me patience, strength, and the importance of never giving up on myself or others. My passion for health and wellness comes from seeing how care and kindness can truly change lives. In nursing, I’ve witnessed moments of healing, hope, and even heartbreak, and each one reminded me why I chose this path. To me, health isn’t just about the body—it’s about mind, spirit, and dignity. I believe every person deserves to be seen, heard, and cared for with respect. What keeps me moving forward is the chance to make a real difference, not only for my patients but for my community. I want to use my experiences to advocate for others, provide comfort in hard times, and inspire wellness in every sense of the word. To me, empathy is more than just recognizing another person’s feelings—it is the ability to truly connect with them, to step into their world and understand their experiences from their perspective. It requires listening without judgment, offering compassion without conditions, and showing up with presence even when words fall short. Empathy is not about trying to solve every problem, but about letting someone know they are seen, heard, and valued. It is the difference between simply providing care and providing care that heals. In nursing, empathy is one of the most important qualities we can bring to the profession. Patients often come to us during their most vulnerable moments—when they are scared, in pain, or uncertain about the future. In those times, empathy builds trust. It reassures patients that they are not just a diagnosis or a chart, but human beings worthy of respect and dignity. When patients feel understood, they are more likely to communicate openly, follow care plans, and engage in their healing process. Empathy also benefits the nurse, as it fosters stronger relationships, a deeper sense of purpose, and a reminder of why the work matters. Practicing empathy requires intentionality. To ensure my work is always done through a human-centered lens, I would start by treating every patient as an individual, not just a condition. This means asking about their goals, listening carefully to their concerns, and involving them in decisions about their care. It also means being attentive to cultural, spiritual, and personal differences, respecting each person’s background and values as part of their overall health journey. Equally important is the way I communicate. Using language that is clear, compassionate, and empowering allows patients to feel in control rather than overwhelmed. Simple acts—such as taking time to explain a procedure, holding a hand, or offering reassurance—can make an enormous difference in a patient’s experience. Maintaining a human-centered approach also means practicing self-awareness. I must continually reflect on my own biases, assumptions, and emotions so they do not interfere with the quality of care I provide. By remaining open-minded and committed to lifelong learning, I can ensure that I grow both as a professional and as a person. Ultimately, empathy transforms nursing from a task-driven job into a calling rooted in humanity. It is what allows nurses to bridge the gap between medical treatment and true healing. Through empathy, we honor not only the science of healthcare but also the dignity, resilience, and spirit of those we serve.

For me, nursing has never been just a job—it has always felt like a calling. I’ve been an LPN for 17 years, and in that time, I’ve cared for people in their most vulnerable moments. I’ve held hands when families got difficult news, celebrated when patients made it through hard recoveries, and learned that healing is about so much more than medicine. It’s about trust, compassion, and being present. Those experiences are what inspire me to go back to school now and earn my degree in nursing. I know I have more to give, and advancing my education is the best way to do that. As a single mother of five, the road hasn’t been easy. I’ve had to pause and restart school more times than I can count because life pulled me in different directions. But through it all, the desire to grow in this profession has never left me. My children have watched me work hard and care for others, and I want them to see that dreams are worth fighting for, no matter how long it takes. Nursing gives me the chance not only to support my family, but also to show my kids what perseverance and purpose look like. What I love most about nursing is that it blends skill and heart. It’s about using knowledge to treat illness, but also about listening to patients when they’re scared, or explaining something in a way that eases their worries. I want to pursue this degree because I know it will make me a stronger advocate, a better provider, and a leader in the field. With more education, I can open doors to roles that allow me to make bigger changes—whether that means mentoring new nurses, working in specialized areas, or pushing for better access to care in my community. Giving back is at the center of why I want to keep moving forward. I’ve seen how many people fall through the cracks because they don’t have insurance, don’t know where to turn, or feel like the system isn’t built for them. My goal is to use my degree to bridge some of those gaps. I want to work in spaces where I can meet people where they are—whether that’s in hospitals, clinics, schools, or community programs. I believe education and prevention are just as important as treatment, so I hope to organize workshops, help families learn about healthier living, and support initiatives that make care more accessible. At the end of the day, nursing is about people. It’s about showing up for them, respecting their dignity, and making sure they never feel alone in their journey. Pursuing this degree is about becoming the best version of myself so I can better serve others. I know it won’t just change my life—it will allow me to touch countless others in a way that truly matters.

My life has not followed a straight and predictable path: graduate high school, complete nursing school, and live a productive life was the plan. Each twist and challenge has shaped who I am, woman, mother, and nurse, today. As a single mom of multiple children and a healthcare career for the past 22 years, I have carried many responsibilities. Balancing my career, family, and education while facing the struggles and setbacks of life. Over the years I have started and stopped school several times, never once abandoning my dream of advancing my nursing career. The resilience built through these experiences has not only fueled my commitment to completing my nursing degree but has also deepened my values, career aspiration, and passion for serving others. Growing up, I learned early on the importance of perseverance, sacrifice, and responsibility. These values became even more ingrained as I raised my children largely on my own, striving to provide them with stability and opportunities while navigating financial and emotional challenges. Motherhood has been both my greatest joy and greatest motivation. My children have watched me work long hours and come home tired, but still determined and push forward to complete school work despite any setbacks. Im showing them that no matter how many times you are forced to pause or take a detour from your goals, it is never too late to continue pursuing your dreams or goals. These past twenty plus years have given me a profound sense of purpose and pride in the nursing profession. I have cared for patients from all walks of life-those at their most vulnerable moments, battling illness, loss, or pain. Nursing has taught me patience, compassion, and humility. It has also shown me the power of advocacy. At times being a nurse means being the one voice that stands up for a patient who cannot speak for themselves. Nursing to me is more than just a job, it's my calling that requires heart, skill, and true dedication. I know my impact is limited unless I advance my education and broaden my scope of practice. Life's experiences have instilled a deep commitment to community service. I understand the struggle of families who face economic disparities. Those experiences have made me passionate about using my nursing education to not only provide excellent patient care but also to educate, mentor, and advocate for vulnerable populations. I aspire to become a registered nurse and eventually a nurse educator, where I can combine my clinical knowledge with my lived experience to uplift others. I can positively influence future nurses while continuing to care for patients with empathy and cultural sensitivity. The Journey to achieving my goals hasn't been the easiest. The financial burden of tuition, books, and living expenses weighs heavily on me. Balancing school with work and family responsibilities requires tremendous sacrifice, but I am determined to succeed. This scholarship would not only provide critical financial relief but would also be an investment in my ability to complete my degree and contribute more fully to my community. It would lessen the weight of financial strain and allow me to devote more focus and energy to my studies and clinical training. A pursuit in higher education at this stage in my life is not a simple career change, but a fulfilling lifelong dream and me setting an example for my children that education and determination are powerful tools for building a better future. Nursing is my calling, and with the support of this scholarship, I will be able to expand my role in the profession and make a greater impact.

I have always been drawn to caring for others, but it was through a personal experiences, challenges, and meaningful encounters that's when I realized nursing was the career path I was meant to pursue. My journey toward this decision has not been linear, but each step of my life has shaped the compassion, resilience, and sense of purpose that fuel my desire to become a nurse. One of the earliest influences came from within my own family. Growing up, I often found myself helping care for my elderly relatives and people that my grandmother took in from the state. Whether it was preparing meals, sitting by a clients side, or providing comfort during times of illness, I learned the importance of patience and empathy. These moments were not always easy, but they taught me the value of being present for someone who needs support. I began to see caregiving not as a burden, but as an opportunity to bring comfort and reassurance to those I love. My decision to pursue nursing solidified during a personal health challenge. Experiencing a critical pregnancy and birthing a baby that later went into the NICU that required frequent medical visits exposed me to the world of healthcare in a very real way. What stood out to me most was not just the treatments or procedures, but the nurses who consistently treated my son with care and respect. They took the time to explain what was happening, answered questions with patience, and provided reassurance during difficult moments. Their ability to combine technical skill with compassion left a lasting impression on me. I realized that nursing is not just about treating the body; it is also about nurturing the soul. Another powerful influence was me witnessing firsthand the disparities in access to healthcare. I met individuals who faced financial and language barriers, yet still sought care with hope and dignity. These encounters opened my eyes to the importance of advocacy in nursing. I began to see nurses not only as caregivers but also as educators and advocates who bridge the gap between patients and the larger healthcare system. This experience inspired me to want to be part of a profession that empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their health. My work experiences have prepared me for the challenges of being a registered nurse. In customer service roles, I learned to communicate effectively with people from all backgrounds, to listen attentively, and to respond calmly under pressure. These skills translate directly into patient care, where clear communication and emotional resilience are essential. I understand that nursing requires both technical knowledge and the ability to connect with people on a personal level, and I am eager to continue developing these qualities. Ultimately, my life experiences have taught me that caring for others is not only a responsibility but a calling. Nursing aligns with my values of service, compassion, and continuous learning. It offers me the chance to make a tangible difference in people’s lives, just as nurses once made a difference in mine. Every experience, from caring for loved ones, overcoming personal health challenges, volunteering in the community, to working in service roles, has shaped me into someone who is ready and determined to embrace the challenges and rewards of nursing.

Choosing a career in nursing was a deeply personal decision shaped by my life experiences and passion for helping others. Caregiving has always been a central role in my life. I found that nurturing others, especially in times of need, is something that comes naturally to me. This realization guided me toward the nursing profession, where I could channel my desire to make a meaningful impact on people’s lives. Now, as I work towards my Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), I am excited to deepen my skills and pursue my passion for pediatric nursing. Nursing, for me, is more than a job—it is a calling to serve others during their most vulnerable moments. What drew me to nursing initially was the opportunity to provide direct patient care and be a source of comfort, education, and advocacy. I wanted to be involved in helping people, not only by treating their physical ailments but also by offering emotional support. My time as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) further confirmed that nursing allows me to have a direct, positive impact on people’s lives. Whether it’s listening to a patient’s concerns or explaining complex medical information in a way that empowers them, nursing enables me to make a real difference. A key aspect of why I chose nursing is the continuous learning and growth it offers. Healthcare is ever-evolving, and nursing presents new challenges and learning opportunities every day. I’ve always been committed to personal and professional growth, and the dynamic nature of the nursing field excites me. This drive for continuous improvement is why I returned to school to pursue my BSN, which will open doors to specialized fields like pediatric nursing. My journey in nursing has made me realize that my true passion is in working with children. Pediatric nursing appeals to me because it allows me to care for one of the most vulnerable populations. Having raised five children myself, I understand the unique needs and emotions that come with caring for children, especially when they’re unwell. Pediatric nursing isn’t just about treating illnesses; it’s about offering comfort and helping children and their families navigate the challenges of illness and recovery. I am drawn to the opportunity to be there for children during their toughest moments and make a difference in their health and well-being. What excites me most about pediatric nursing is the chance to not only provide medical care but also emotional and psychological support. Children are often scared and unsure during hospital visits, and it’s the role of the pediatric nurse to ease their fears. I believe that my natural nurturing instincts, coupled with my experience as both a mother and an LPN, make me well-suited for this field. Helping children smile through a difficult time or providing reassurance to a worried parent is incredibly rewarding, and it’s something I hope to do every day as a pediatric nurse. Additionally, pediatric nursing allows me to work closely with families, which is another reason I’m drawn to this specialty. Supporting and educating parents on how to care for their children during those times aligns with my desire to be an advocate not just for patients, but for their families as well. I chose nursing because it allows me to serve others in a way that aligns with my passion, making a meaningful impact. Pursuing pediatric nursing is the next step in my journey, where I can combine my skills, experiences, and compassion to positively influence the lives of families. I am excited to continue my educational journey, knowing that every step brings me closer to fulfilling my dream.

As a single mother of five, I’ve learned that life’s toughest challenges often lead to our most life-changing moments. Returning to school to pursue a career in nursing has been one of those moments for me. A decision shaped by resilience, passion, and a desire to make a difference in others' lives. But my journey to this point has been far from straightforward. It’s a story of career shifts, personal growth, and the "aha" moment that made me realize nursing is indeed my true calling. My educational journey began soon after high school when I initially explored healthcare. I started studying medical assisting, but quickly realized I wanted to be more involved in patient care. However, as a young mother, I had to put my education on hold to focus on my family and work. Over the years, I worked in various roles, from office to caregiver, but those positions didn't provide the deep sense of fulfillment I sought after. Eventually, I became a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), and that’s when I started to feel a true connection to healthcare. As an LPN, I was able to provide direct care, and the more I worked with patients, the more I realized how much I loved a more hands-on approach in nursing. Yet, it wasn’t until one specific moment that I knew nursing was my calling. My "aha" moment came during a challenging shift. I was caring for a woman with a chronic illness who was frightened and overwhelmed. I took time to explain her treatment plan and address her concerns. By the end of our conversation, I saw the fear in her eyes lessen, and she thanked me for giving her the confidence to face her illness. In that moment, I knew I wanted to do more than just provide care—I wanted to become an advocate, a source of education, and a resource for those in need. That experience ignited a passion in me, pushing me to return to school to become a Registered Nurse (RN). I realized that with further education, I could expand my knowledge and skills to better advocate for patients, particularly women in my community. Returning to school later in life has been challenging, especially as a single mother, but the support of my children and my determination to succeed has kept me going. Every hurdle has only strengthened my determination to pursue my goals. Currently, I’m working toward my Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), and I’ve never been more certain of my path. Going back to school after so many years has been a journey of personal and professional growth. It’s allowed me to reconnect with my passion for healthcare and pursue my long-standing desire of making a lasting impact on my community. Through nursing, I can educate, advocate, and provide care in ways that truly make a difference. My journey hasn’t been easy, but I’m grateful for every challenge that has brought me to this point. My educational journey is more than just earning a degree; it’s about fulfilling a purpose. I’m excited for the future as I continue this path toward becoming a nurse, knowing that every step brings me closer to my dream of empowering others through compassionate care and advocacy.

Pursuing a career in nursing was not an easy decision, but rather a calling that evolved over time. My journey into the healthcare field has been shaped by both personal experiences and professional exposure, as well as an extreme sense of purpose I feel in caring for others. As a single mother of five, I understand the importance of compassion, patience, and resilience, qualities that I believe are essential in nursing. These experiences, combined with my desire to make a lasting impression on my community, ultimately guided me toward this career path. One of the key factors that inspired me to pursue nursing was the deep sense of purpose I felt when caring for others, even before I became a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). I have always found joy in helping people, whether it was family, friends, or people in my community. From a young age, I saw how a small act of kindness could lift someone's spirits and bring them comfort during difficult times. The empathy and desire to help others carried into my adulthood, and I knew that I wanted to find a profession where I could combine my passion for helping people with a meaningful career. As I explored different career paths, I found myself drawn to healthcare. I’ve been fortunate enough to work in various healthcare settings, and during those times I realized how vital nurses are to the well-being of patients. Nurses are often the first point of contact for patients, and they play a pivotal role in not only administering care but also offering emotional and educational support. I was inspired by the compassion, dedication and skill set I witnessed from nurses on a daily basis, and I knew that this was the profession where I wanted to be. Throughout my life, I have seen the disparities in healthcare that women, particularly those in underserved communities, face. Women often struggle to access the care and education they need to make informed decisions about their health. As a mother, I know how important it is to have access to quality healthcare and the information needed to make the best choices for oneself and their family. This passion for advocating for women’s health has become a center motivation for me as I continue my education and strive to become a Registered Nurse. In addition to my personal passion, nursing offers the opportunity for continual growth and learning. The healthcare field is constantly evolving, and nurses are at the forefront of these changes. Whether it’s adopting new technologies, learning about groundbreaking treatment methods, or staying up to date on the latest research, nursing provides a career where lifelong learning is essential. This excites me, as I believe in the importance of staying current and informed to provide the best possible care for patients. I choose nursing because it allows me to make a real difference in people’s lives. As a nurse, I will be able to combine my skills, compassion, and advocacy to impact not only individual patients but also my community. My goal is to educate others, advocate for vulnerable populations, and promote health and wellness. Nursing is more than a career to me—it is a calling, and I am committed to making a positive impact through my work.