For a long time, I didn’t realize that what I was going through was domestic violence. I was in a relationship where I was both mentally and physically abused. I stayed because I loved him and wanted to hold my family together. I kept believing he would change. I thought if I just did more, loved harder, or stayed strong, things would get better. But they didn’t. And over time, I started to lose pieces of myself, my confidence, my peace, and my voice. What made it even harder was feeling like I couldn’t talk about it. As a Black woman, I felt like I had to be strong and hold it together no matter what. I didn’t want to be judged or blamed. I didn’t want people to think I was weak or dramatic. That silence almost broke me. But eventually, I found my strength; not just to leave, but to start healing. It took time, therapy, faith, and self-forgiveness, but I got there. That experience changed everything about how I see the world, and it’s a big part of why I chose to pursue higher education in nursing. I want to be a nurse who not only provides care but understands the deeper stories behind the pain people carry. I want to advocate for African American women who are going through what I went through; women who need someone to see them, listen to them, and fight for them. With my education, I plan to be part of improving how healthcare providers respond to survivors of domestic violence and trauma. I want to help create systems where medical professionals are trained to recognize the warning signs and respond with compassion and respect. I want to work in environments where care is more than clinical, where it's about building trust, offering resources, and following through. Too often, African American women are overlooked, dismissed, or misunderstood when they speak up about abuse or emotional pain. I want to change that. I want to use my degree and lived experience to create a space where more Black women can survive, heal, and thrive. Whether it’s in a hospital, a community clinic, or a policy room; I want to be there, using my voice to help others find theirs. This isn’t just about getting a degree. It’s about turning my pain into purpose. It’s about creating the change I wish had existed when I needed it most and helping others write a different ending to their story.

For as long as I can remember, helping others has been at the core of who I am. Throughout my life, I’ve always been drawn to roles where I could make a difference, whether that was in my work, my community, or my family. Although I originally pursued a degree in Criminal Justice, I quickly realized that my true passion lies in healthcare, specifically nursing. Nursing offers the opportunity to combine my innate desire to help others with my passion for science and learning. It allows me to be a part of people’s lives at some of their most vulnerable moments, and that’s a responsibility I don’t take lightly. The decision to pursue nursing came after years of reflection and experience. I’ve worked with children and adults with disabilities, which deepened my desire to work in healthcare. Through this experience, I learned invaluable lessons in empathy, patience, and communication. I saw how much a compassionate word, a listening ear, or a small act of kindness could change someone’s outlook on their day or even their health. These interactions fueled my desire to care for people in a more direct, hands-on way, leading me to nursing as my true calling. My ultimate goal is to become a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), but my mission as a nurse is rooted in a strong desire to make a difference at the community level. I’m passionate about providing compassionate care to those in underserved communities, especially individuals who may not have easy access to healthcare or feel overlooked by the system. I want to contribute to the well-being of my community by offering high-quality care and advocating for those who often go unheard. This is a core motivation for me; to ensure that all individuals, regardless of their background or socioeconomic status, receive the care they deserve. Moreover, as a single mother, I understand the importance of resilience and determination in overcoming obstacles. I want to show my children and others in my community that it’s never too late to pursue your dreams, no matter how challenging the path may seem. I hope to serve as a role model for young women and single mothers, especially those who may feel that their goals are out of reach due to circumstances. Through my work as a nurse and the example I set, I want to inspire others to chase their dreams and never give up, even when the road gets tough. By becoming a nurse, I hope to not only provide care to individuals but also contribute to the overall health and wellness of my community. I believe that by working with compassion, integrity, and dedication, I can positively impact others' lives in meaningful ways and inspire others to give back in their own unique ways.

I’m a 33-year-old single mother with two children, and I’m on a journey that has both challenged me and inspired me in ways I never imagined. I’ve already earned a degree in Criminal Justice, but my heart has always belonged to nursing. After years of working in various fields, I realized that I was being called back to what I was truly passionate about; the opportunity to make a direct, positive difference in people’s lives through care, compassion, and expertise. While it hasn’t been easy, I’ve learned a lot along the way. As a mother, I’ve had to balance school, work, and family life, often sacrificing sleep and personal time to stay on top of everything. Paying for school out of pocket after exhausting my financial aid from my first degree has been a challenge, but it hasn’t deterred me. Every obstacle I face motivates me to push harder, not only for my own dreams but also for the future I want to create for my children. I want them to see that no matter the hurdles, perseverance and dedication can turn dreams into reality. What drives me most is the idea of positively impacting my community. I’ve had the privilege of working with children and adults with disabilities, which taught me invaluable lessons in patience, empathy, and communication. I realized that even small acts of kindness, like offering a reassuring smile or listening without judgment, can change someone’s day. Those experiences have only deepened my passion for healthcare and the impact I want to have as a nurse. Once I become a nurse, I plan to continue making a positive difference by working in underserved communities. I want to provide compassionate care to those who may not have access to the healthcare they need or who may feel overlooked by the system. Whether it’s through direct patient care or by serving in leadership roles, I’m committed to using my knowledge and experiences to advocate for those who need it most. The long-term goal is to eventually become a CRNA (Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist), combining advanced medical knowledge with compassionate care, and making a positive impact on people during some of their most vulnerable moments. I also plan to mentor others, especially young women of color and single mothers, showing them that it’s never too late to pursue your dreams and that education and hard work can open doors that may seem out of reach. By sharing my story and experiences, I hope to inspire others to chase their dreams, no matter how daunting the journey may seem. In the end, it’s not just about my career, it’s about building a legacy of resilience, compassion, and service to others. I want to make a difference in the lives of those around me, inspire change, and create a lasting, positive impact on my community.

My interest in nursing comes from a place of both passion and purpose. Although I earned my first bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, I always knew nursing was my true calling. Life led me down a different path for a while, but the desire to care for others in a hands-on, meaningful way never left me. Now, as a single Black mother returning to school for my second degree, I’m finally answering that calling, not only for myself, but for my children and the future I want to build for us. What draws me to nursing is the human connection at its core. I’ve always felt pulled toward helping others, especially during difficult moments. There’s something powerful about being present for people when they’re scared, in pain, or uncertain, and being able to offer them comfort, clarity, and care. That’s the kind of impact I want to have in people’s lives. Nursing, to me, isn’t just a career, it’s a way of serving others with compassion, skill, and strength. My ultimate goal is to become a CRNA (Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist), a role that combines technical knowledge with the ability to provide calm, focused care in high-pressure situations. It’s a demanding path, but I’m ready for it. I’ve already proven to myself that I can handle tough challenges; whether it’s balancing motherhood, working while in school, or paying for nursing school out of pocket after using all my financial aid for my first degree. None of it has been easy, but all of it has strengthened my commitment to this path. Through my work supporting children and adults with disabilities, I’ve also learned the importance of patience, empathy, and truly seeing people for who they are, not just their conditions or limitations. Those experiences only deepened my desire to work in healthcare, where I can make others feel heard, respected, and safe. Recently, I made the Presidential List at Galen College of Nursing. That moment reminded me that I’m not only on the right path, but that I’m capable of excelling, even under pressure. Nursing school has tested me in so many ways, but it has also shown me what I’m made of. I’m pursuing nursing because I want to be the person others can depend on when it matters most. I want to use my experiences, my heart, and my determination to care for people, uplift my community, and show my children what it means to chase your purpose, no matter how hard the road may be.

At 33 years old, I’m currently pursuing my second bachelor’s degree, this time in nursing, and I’ve never felt more aligned with my purpose. My path to get here hasn’t been traditional, but every step has taught me something valuable and brought me closer to where I was always meant to be. My first degree was in Criminal Justice. At the time, I believed I wanted to work in law enforcement or juvenile justice to help others and create change. But after graduating, something always felt missing. I worked in different roles, gained life experience, and started raising my two beautiful children; but the desire to care for others in a deeper, more hands-on way never left me. Nursing had always been in the back of my mind, but I didn’t think the timing was right. Life was happening quickly, and I put that dream on hold. Everything changed when I started working closely with children and adults with disabilities. Through that experience, I learned how powerful patience, empathy, and presence can be. I saw firsthand how just showing up with a kind heart and a steady hand could change someone’s entire day, or even their outlook on life. That was my “aha” moment. It wasn’t one big, dramatic realization, it was a quiet but consistent pull toward something more meaningful. I knew then that nursing wasn’t just a dream from my past. It was the path forward. It felt like coming home to something I never should’ve left behind. Returning to school in my 30s with two kids was not a decision I made lightly. I knew it would be hard, I had already used all my financial aid for my first degree, so I’m now paying out of pocket. I’m balancing classes, clinicals, parenting, and work, often running on little sleep but a lot of determination. And still, I’ve made the Presidential List at Galen College of Nursing, proving to myself that I belong here and that I’m capable of thriving even under pressure. My educational journey has had its twists and turns, but I don’t regret any part of it. Every challenge has built my resilience. Every delay gave me more clarity. And now, with both life experience and unwavering passion on my side, I’m becoming the nurse I was always meant to be. This journey is for me, but it’s also for my kids. I want them to see that it’s never too late to follow your purpose, and that even when the road is hard, it’s always worth it.

My interest in nursing comes from a place of both passion and purpose. Although I earned my first bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, I always knew nursing was my true calling. Life led me down a different path for a while, but the desire to care for others in a hands-on, meaningful way never left me. Now, as a single Black mother returning to school for my second degree, I’m finally answering that calling, not only for myself, but for my children and the future I want to build for us. What draws me to nursing is the human connection at its core. I’ve always felt pulled toward helping others, especially during difficult moments. There’s something powerful about being present for people when they’re scared, in pain, or uncertain, and being able to offer them comfort, clarity, and care. That’s the kind of impact I want to have in people’s lives. Nursing, to me, isn’t just a career, it’s a way of serving others with compassion, skill, and strength. My ultimate goal is to become a CRNA (Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist), a role that combines technical knowledge with the ability to provide calm, focused care in high-pressure situations. It’s a demanding path, but I’m ready for it. I’ve already proven to myself that I can handle tough challenges, whether it’s balancing motherhood, working while in school, or paying for nursing school out of pocket after using all my financial aid for my first degree. None of it has been easy, but all of it has strengthened my commitment to this path. Through my work supporting children and adults with disabilities, I’ve also learned the importance of patience, empathy, and truly seeing people for who they are, not just their conditions or limitations. Those experiences only deepened my desire to work in healthcare, where I can make others feel heard, respected, and safe. Recently, I made the Presidential List at Galen College of Nursing. That moment reminded me that I’m not only on the right path, but that I’m capable of excelling, even under pressure. Nursing school has tested me in so many ways, but it has also shown me what I’m made of. I’m pursuing nursing because I want to be the person others can depend on when it matters most. I want to use my experiences, my heart, and my determination to care for people, uplift my community, and show my children what it means to chase your purpose, no matter how hard the road may be.

What makes me different is not just the obstacles I’ve faced, but the mindset I’ve built because of them. I’m a single Black mother, working toward my second bachelor’s degree in nursing, and doing it all while raising my children and working to make ends meet. I know I’m not the only one facing challenges, but what sets me apart is the way I use my circumstances to push forward with purpose. I show up every day; tired, stretched thin, but still determined, because I know someone is always watching, even if I don’t realize it in the moment. Being both a mother and a full-time nursing student means I don’t have the luxury of giving up. I’ve had to build my own structure, study when my children are asleep, and stay mentally strong through moments of uncertainty. I’ve faced financial hardship after exhausting my financial aid from my first degree, and yet I’m still here, earning a spot on the Presidential List at Galen College of Nursing, managing my responsibilities, and refusing to let my circumstances define my future. That kind of persistence is something I’ve learned not to talk about just to prove strength, but to live out loud, because someone else might need to see it. The people who see me may not always say so, but I’ve learned that being authentic, honest, and resilient creates quiet ripples. Whether it’s another single mom in my class who’s feeling like giving up, a young Black girl wondering if she belongs in nursing school, or even my children’s teachers or classmates, someone is paying attention. I’ve had moments where strangers later came up to say, “I watched how you handled that, and it gave me hope.” Those moments remind me why it matters to keep showing up, not perfectly, but with heart. I also leverage my uniqueness by being present for others in real, empathetic ways. Through my work with children and adults with disabilities, I’ve seen how kindness, patience, and advocacy can change someone’s whole day, or even their life. You don’t always know who’s being inspired by your attitude, your actions, or your persistence. But that’s the beauty of it: being yourself might be exactly what someone else needs to keep going. I may not have a typical path, but that’s what makes me powerful. I lead with authenticity, I push through with purpose, and I stay grounded in who I am, because someone, somewhere, is watching and silently deciding to believe in themselves too.

Pursuing a career in nursing is not only a personal dream, but also a mission rooted in compassion, resilience, and a desire to serve others, values that I understand Margaret A. Briller strongly believed in. As a single Black mother working toward my second bachelor's degree, I know the weight of responsibility, the strength required to overcome adversity, and the impact that kindness and care can have on people’s lives. My journey to becoming a nurse has been far from easy, but my commitment has never wavered. I am determined to not only reach my goals, but to make a lasting impact on others in the process. Although I hold a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, nursing has always been my true calling. Life initially took me down a different path, and while I’m grateful for the lessons I learned along the way, I never let go of my dream to become a nurse. I’ve always felt drawn to the idea of helping people in their most vulnerable moments, providing support, care, and comfort when they need it most. Nursing is more than a career to me; it’s a purpose that aligns with who I am at my core. My ultimate goal is to become a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), combining advanced medical knowledge with human connection to ensure patients feel safe, informed, and cared for during critical times in their healthcare journey. My road back to school has not been without challenges. As a single mother of young children, I face the daily pressures of balancing parenthood, work, and school. After using all of my financial aid to complete my first degree, I’ve had to fund my nursing education out of pocket. This has created significant financial strain, especially as I work to provide for my children while also dedicating myself to a rigorous academic program. Scholarships like this one are essential to students like me. Receiving the Margaret A. Briller Scholarship would ease a major financial burden, allowing me to focus more fully on my studies and clinical work without the constant stress of how I will afford tuition and books. It would also mean that my hard work and persistence are being recognized and supported, which carries immense emotional value as well. In addition to my academic responsibilities, I’ve worked throughout college, supporting both children and adults with disabilities. This experience has taught me patience, empathy, and a deeper understanding of the importance of individualized care, traits that I will carry with me into the nursing profession. I’ve seen firsthand how even small gestures of compassion can brighten someone’s day and help them feel seen, respected, and supported. These lessons have strengthened my desire to enter a field where I can create those moments for others every day. Despite the long nights, tight schedules, and constant juggling of responsibilities, I’ve never lost sight of my goals. I recently earned a place on the Presidential List at Galen College of Nursing, a recognition of my academic excellence that reaffirmed my belief in my potential. It was a proud moment that reminded me I’m capable of exceeding expectations, even when the odds are stacked against me. I know that my children are watching everything I do, and I want to show them what resilience, hard work, and purpose look like in action. With my nursing degree, I plan to give back not only by providing exceptional patient care, but also by mentoring and supporting other underrepresented students in healthcare. I want to be a voice for compassion in medicine and an advocate for patients who feel overlooked. In the future, I hope to volunteer my time in underserved communities, offer mentorship to aspiring nurses of color, and eventually create programs that help support single parents in higher education. I believe my story, and the barriers I’ve faced, can be used to inspire others and create change. Receiving this scholarship would be more than financial help, it would be an investment in my future and the future of those I care for. It would allow me to stay the course without interruption, bring me closer to my goal of becoming a CRNA, and empower me to continue building a life of stability and purpose for my children. Margaret A. Briller’s legacy of dedication to nursing is something I deeply respect. I believe I embody many of the same qualities: compassion, perseverance, commitment to education, and a genuine desire to help others. I will carry these values with me throughout my career and use them to make a positive, lasting difference in the world.

What inspired me to return to school was my passion for nursing and my desire to create a better future for myself and my children. I already hold a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, but nursing has always been my true calling. Life took me in a different direction for a while, and I’m grateful for what I’ve learned along the way, but my desire to become a nurse never went away. Helping others has always been at the core of who I am, and nursing allows me to do that in a meaningful way. I’ve always been drawn to roles where I can provide comfort, advocate for others, and be a source of strength in vulnerable moments. Returning to school to pursue this path felt like finally stepping into who I was always meant to be. My ultimate goal is to become a CRNA (Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist), where I can combine advanced medical knowledge with patient care during critical moments. As a single Black mother, my journey hasn’t been without challenges. Financial strain has been one of the biggest obstacles. Since my first degree exhausted my eligibility for financial aid, I’ve had to cover the cost of nursing school out of pocket. This has been difficult, but I stay focused and committed. I balance raising my children and working to provide for them, all while staying on top of my academic responsibilities. Despite these obstacles, I’ve remained determined to succeed, knowing that the sacrifices I make now will create a better future for my family. In addition to managing school and parenting, I’ve worked during college, supporting both children and adults with disabilities. This experience has been incredibly rewarding and reinforced my passion for healthcare. It taught me patience, empathy, and the importance of building strong connections with others, especially those facing unique challenges. I’ve learned that even the smallest gestures can have a significant impact, and this has motivated me to pursue a career where I can offer care and support in the most meaningful ways. Despite the demands on my time, I’ve continued to push forward. I was proud to make the Presidential List at Galen College of Nursing, which reminded me that I am capable of exceeding expectations even under pressure. This recognition reaffirmed my belief in my potential and purpose, and it continues to motivate me on difficult days. Balancing motherhood and being a full-time student requires structure and sacrifice. I keep a tight schedule, often studying after my kids go to sleep. I don’t have the luxury of slowing down because my children are watching me. Through my actions, I want them to learn that hard work, resilience, and the pursuit of dreams can overcome any obstacle. Everything I do is for them. Their future depends on the steps I’m taking now, and I won’t stop until I’ve made them proud and turned my dream into reality.

What inspired me to return to school was my passion for nursing and my desire to create a better future for myself and my children. I already hold a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, but nursing has always been my true calling. Life took me in a different direction for a while, and I’m grateful for what I’ve learned along the way, but my desire to become a nurse never went away. Helping others has always been at the core of who I am, and nursing allows me to do that in a meaningful way. I’ve always been drawn to roles where I can provide comfort, advocate for others, and be a source of strength in vulnerable moments. Returning to school to pursue this path felt like finally stepping into who I was always meant to be. My ultimate goal is to become a CRNA (Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist), where I can combine advanced medical knowledge with patient care during critical moments. As a single Black mother, my journey hasn’t been without challenges. Financial strain has been one of the biggest obstacles. Since my first degree exhausted my eligibility for financial aid, I’ve had to cover the cost of nursing school out of pocket. This has been difficult, but I stay focused and committed. I balance raising my children and working to provide for them, all while staying on top of my academic responsibilities. Despite these obstacles, I’ve remained determined to succeed, knowing that the sacrifices I make now will create a better future for my family. In addition to managing school and parenting, I’ve worked during college, supporting both children and adults with disabilities. This experience has been incredibly rewarding and reinforced my passion for healthcare. It taught me patience, empathy, and the importance of building strong connections with others, especially those facing unique challenges. I’ve learned that even the smallest gestures can have a significant impact, and this has motivated me to pursue a career where I can offer care and support in the most meaningful ways. Despite the demands on my time, I’ve continued to push forward. I was proud to make the Presidential List at Galen College of Nursing, which reminded me that I am capable of exceeding expectations even under pressure. This recognition reaffirmed my belief in my potential and purpose, and it continues to motivate me on difficult days. Balancing motherhood and being a full-time student requires structure and sacrifice. I keep a tight schedule, often studying after my kids go to sleep. I don’t have the luxury of slowing down because my children are watching me. Through my actions, I want them to learn that hard work, resilience, and the pursuit of dreams can overcome any obstacle. Everything I do is for them. Their future depends on the steps I’m taking now, and I won’t stop until I’ve made them proud and turned my dream into reality. I discovered this scholarship through Bold.org while actively searching for financial support to help fund my nursing education.

What inspired me to return to school was my passion for nursing and my desire to create a better future for myself and my children. I already hold a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, but nursing has always been my true calling. Life took me in a different direction for a while, and I’m grateful for what I’ve learned along the way, but my desire to become a nurse never went away. Helping others has always been at the core of who I am, and nursing allows me to do that in a meaningful way. I’ve always been drawn to roles where I can provide comfort, advocate for others, and be a source of strength in vulnerable moments. Returning to school to pursue this path felt like finally stepping into who I was always meant to be. My ultimate goal is to become a CRNA (Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist), where I can combine advanced medical knowledge with patient care during critical moments. As a single Black mother, my journey hasn’t been without challenges. Financial strain has been one of the biggest obstacles. Since my first degree exhausted my eligibility for financial aid, I’ve had to cover the cost of nursing school out of pocket. This has been difficult, but I stay focused and committed. I balance raising my children and working to provide for them, all while staying on top of my academic responsibilities. Despite these obstacles, I’ve remained determined to succeed, knowing that the sacrifices I make now will create a better future for my family. In addition to managing school and parenting, I’ve worked during college, supporting both children and adults with disabilities. This experience has been incredibly rewarding and reinforced my passion for healthcare. It taught me patience, empathy, and the importance of building strong connections with others, especially those facing unique challenges. I’ve learned that even the smallest gestures can have a significant impact, and this has motivated me to pursue a career where I can offer care and support in the most meaningful ways. Despite the demands on my time, I’ve continued to push forward. I was proud to make the Presidential List at Galen College of Nursing, which reminded me that I am capable of exceeding expectations even under pressure. This recognition reaffirmed my belief in my potential and purpose, and it continues to motivate me on difficult days. Balancing motherhood and being a full-time student requires structure and sacrifice. I keep a tight schedule, often studying after my kids go to sleep. I don’t have the luxury of slowing down because my children are watching me. Through my actions, I want them to learn that hard work, resilience, and the pursuit of dreams can overcome any obstacle. Everything I do is for them. Their future depends on the steps I’m taking now, and I won’t stop until I’ve made them proud and turned my dream into reality.

What inspired me to return to school was my passion for nursing and my desire to create a better future for myself and my children. I already hold a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, but nursing has always been my true calling. Life took me in a different direction for a while, and I’m grateful for what I’ve learned along the way, but my desire to become a nurse never went away. Helping others has always been at the core of who I am, and nursing allows me to do that in a meaningful way. I’ve always been drawn to roles where I can provide comfort, advocate for others, and be a source of strength in vulnerable moments. Returning to school to pursue this path felt like finally stepping into who I was always meant to be. My ultimate goal is to become a CRNA (Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist), where I can combine advanced medical knowledge with patient care during critical moments. As a single Black mother, my journey hasn’t been without challenges. Financial strain has been one of the biggest obstacles. Since my first degree exhausted my eligibility for financial aid, I’ve had to cover the cost of nursing school out of pocket. This has been difficult, but I stay focused and committed. I balance raising my children and working to provide for them, all while staying on top of my academic responsibilities. Despite these obstacles, I’ve remained determined to succeed, knowing that the sacrifices I make now will create a better future for my family. In addition to managing school and parenting, I’ve worked during college, supporting both children and adults with disabilities. This experience has been incredibly rewarding and reinforced my passion for healthcare. It taught me patience, empathy, and the importance of building strong connections with others, especially those facing unique challenges. I’ve learned that even the smallest gestures can have a significant impact, and this has motivated me to pursue a career where I can offer care and support in the most meaningful ways. Despite the demands on my time, I’ve continued to push forward. I was proud to make the Presidential List at Galen College of Nursing, which reminded me that I am capable of exceeding expectations even under pressure. This recognition reaffirmed my belief in my potential and purpose, and it continues to motivate me on difficult days. Balancing motherhood and being a full-time student requires structure and sacrifice. I keep a tight schedule, often studying after my kids go to sleep. I don’t have the luxury of slowing down because my children are watching me. Through my actions, I want them to learn that hard work, resilience, and the pursuit of dreams can overcome any obstacle. Everything I do is for them. Their future depends on the steps I’m taking now, and I won’t stop until I’ve made them proud and turned my dream into reality.