My journey to pursuing a career in nursing has been shaped by a deep commitment to serve others and a determination to overcome the obstacles I face as a single mother. Growing up, I saw firsthand the impact of compassionate healthcare providers, and those experiences lit a spark in me to follow a similar path. But the road hasn’t been easy. As a mother, I’ve faced the challenges of balancing school, work, and the responsibilities of raising children on my own. These struggles, however, have only made me more determined to push forward. My story begins with a deep love for my children and a desire to create a better life for them. I want to show them that no matter how difficult life gets, they can achieve their dreams through hard work, perseverance, and faith. Nursing has always been my dream because it allows me to give back in a way that is meaningful to me. My faith has played a huge role in my commitment to healthcare. I see nursing not only as a career but as a calling, a chance to serve others and make a difference in their lives, especially during vulnerable times. The Concrete Rose Scholarship would make a significant impact on my ability to achieve my career goals. With the financial support it provides, I would be able to focus more on my studies and less on the financial pressures that come with being a single mother. This scholarship would allow me to complete my nursing degree and take the next steps toward becoming a nurse practitioner. The opportunity to pursue further education would also allow me to better serve my community, particularly in areas that are underserved and where healthcare professionals are in high demand. This scholarship means more than just financial support, it represents an investment in my future and in the future of the patients I will care for. With this support, I will be better equipped to continue my education without the constant worry of how to pay for it. It will bring me one step closer to reaching my goals and providing a better future for my children. In the future, I plan to use my nursing degree to not only care for patients but to also give back to my community. I want to work in areas where healthcare is scarce and be a beacon of hope for those who feel forgotten. I am passionate about serving others, and nursing gives me the chance to do that every day. I also hope to inspire my children by showing them that with faith, hard work, and support, anything is possible. The Concrete Rose Scholarship will be a game changer in helping me achieve these goals. It will give me the resources to stay focused on my education, grow as a nurse, and make a big difference in the lives of others. This scholarship is more than financial aid, it’s a step toward a future where I can serve others and build a life that not only provides for my family but also helps me give back to the world around me.

Continuing my education is something I hold deeply in my heart. As a single mother, I have faced many challenges, but it is these very challenges that have motivated me to keep going. The most important reason I am pursuing my education is for my children. They are my biggest inspiration and the driving force behind everything I do. I want them to see that, no matter how difficult life may seem, with hard work and perseverance, anything is possible. My goal is to be the example they can look up to, a mother who never gave up on her dreams, no matter how many obstacles came her way. The road to higher education has not been easy. As a mother, I am constantly juggling my responsibilities, taking care of my children, managing bills, and making sure they have everything they need. But in the midst of all these challenges, I have learned to lean into my faith and the belief that God has a plan for me. I have realized that my struggles are not just about surviving; they are shaping me into the person I need to become, both for my family and for others. Nursing has always felt like the right path for me. It is a career that allows me to help others in a meaningful way while also providing a stable future for my children. The motivation to continue comes from the love I have for my children and the dream of a better future for them. I want to provide them with the opportunities I did not always have, and I want them to understand the value of education. The long nights studying, the moments when I feel like giving up, it is all worth it when I think about how this will change our lives. I want to be able to stand in front of them one day and show them that no matter the circumstances, they can achieve their goals too. My plans for the future include completing my nursing degree and eventually becoming a nurse practitioner. Nursing offers the perfect way for me to combine my passion for helping others with my desire to create a stable life for my children. After I finish my degree, I hope to work in underserved communities, where I can make the most significant impact by providing care to those who need it most. I also want to serve as a role model for my children, showing them the importance of giving back to the community and helping others. This scholarship would not only ease some of the financial burdens of school, but it would also be a reminder that I am not alone in this journey. It would be a testament to my dedication, and more importantly, a promise to my children that the hard work and sacrifices will pay off in the end. My inspiration to continue comes from my children, my faith, and my belief that education is the key to creating a better life for us all.

Becoming a nurse has always felt like more than just a career to me. It feels like a calling. As a single mother, I have learned a lot about perseverance, compassion, and what it truly means to care for others. For me, nursing is not just about providing physical care. It is about making an impact in people’s lives during their most vulnerable moments. My faith plays a huge role in how I approach this work. As a Christian, I believe that caring for others is one of the greatest ways we can live out our purpose. It is not just a job. It is an opportunity to serve, to show love, and to reflect the values that mean so much to me. My children are my biggest motivation. They are the reason I push through the hard days of balancing school, work, and raising them on my own. I want them to see that even though life can be tough, you do not give up on your dreams. They inspire me to keep going, and I want them to understand that it is possible to do hard things with faith, determination, and a heart to serve others. I believe that by pursuing my nursing career, I am not just creating a better future for myself but also for them. I am teaching them the importance of perseverance, hard work, and helping others along the way. Nursing is the perfect way for me to live out my faith. I have always believed that we are called to serve others, and that is exactly what being a nurse means to me. It is about more than just fixing physical ailments. It is about showing empathy, offering hope, and being there for people when they need it most. Whether it is comforting a patient who is afraid or lending a helping hand to a colleague, nursing allows me to live out these values every day. I want my children to see that nursing is not just a career. It is a chance to make a difference, to show kindness and compassion, and to reflect God’s love in a tangible way. Being a single mother makes this journey harder, but it also makes it more meaningful. Every day, I get to show my kids that hard work, faith, and a caring heart can get you through anything. I want to be the kind of nurse who not only provides excellent care but also brings light and hope to those I serve. I want my children to see that nursing is a career that requires love and dedication. Through my work, I hope to show them that we all have the power to make the world a better place by helping others. In the end, my goal as a nurse is simple. I want to be a beacon of hope. I want to serve my patients with compassion, lift up my colleagues, and be a source of strength and encouragement for my children and my community. Through nursing, I believe I can be the kind of person who reflects the love and care that I have been given. I want to show others that no matter the challenges we face, there is always hope and light to be found.

Growing up in a single parent household, I learned the importance of hard work and perseverance from a very young age. My mother worked hard to provide for my siblings and me, and while she always did her best, there were times when we struggled. There were moments when I had to step up and help around the house, look after my younger siblings, and balance schoolwork with the responsibilities of home life. This early exposure to responsibility shaped who I am today and taught me that challenges are a part of life, but with determination and resilience, I can overcome anything. As I reflect on those experiences, I see how they have influenced my desire to pursue a career in nursing. I want to be someone who provides care not just for the body, but for the person as a whole. Growing up, I witnessed firsthand how people in underserved communities often lacked access to the healthcare they needed. Whether it was because of financial limitations, a lack of resources, or just the overwhelming feeling of being alone, many people in my community had to navigate their health challenges without support. I want to be the person who helps bridge that gap. I want to be a nurse who listens, advocates for, and truly cares for her patients. My background has given me empathy and the ability to relate to others, which I believe will make me a better nurse. Alongside my career goals, I have always felt a strong commitment to giving back to my community. Whether it’s volunteering at local shelters, helping out at food drives, or tutoring younger students, I believe in the importance of support and connection. My community has shaped me, and I want to do my part to help others facing similar struggles. Through my work as a nurse, I hope to advocate for better healthcare access in underserved areas and continue to volunteer my time to causes that align with my values. The challenges I’ve faced growing up have taught me that success is not measured solely by personal achievements but by how much you are able to help others along the way. I’ve learned that a meaningful life is one where you support and uplift those around you. As I continue to pursue my degree in nursing, I am driven by the desire to help people in my community and beyond. I want to use my experiences, my passion for healthcare, and my dedication to serving others to make a lasting, positive impact. My journey is just beginning, and I am excited for the ways I can contribute to a better future for myself and for those who need it most.

Growing up in a single parent, low-income household shaped me in ways I never fully understood until recently. My mom did everything she could to provide for us, but there were times when we struggled to make ends meet. I took on responsibilities early, helping with my younger siblings or juggling schoolwork while trying to figure out how we would pay for essentials. Those moments taught me how to be resilient, patient, and how to push through challenges even when everything feels impossible. I learned that nothing comes easy, but with hard work, determination, and a little faith, things can change for the better. These experiences have given me a strong desire to make a difference in my community. I want to help others who are going through what I went through, to show them that their circumstances don’t define their future. As a future nurse, I want to provide care and support to those in underserved communities, offering not just medical attention but compassion and encouragement. I want to be the person who listens, supports, and helps people feel like they matter. Right now, I’m focused on my education, balancing my responsibilities at home, school, and work. It’s a lot, but I know it’s all worth it. I also try to give back when I can, volunteering in my community, because I believe it’s important to help others along the way. I’m working hard to turn my dreams into reality and to show others that no matter where you come from, you can achieve what you set your mind to.

Free expression is an important ideal in medicine because it allows healthcare professionals and patients to communicate openly and honestly. This kind of open dialogue is vital for providing the best care and improving patient outcomes. In my experience, I have seen how free expression helps patients feel heard and validated, which is key to building trust between them and their healthcare providers. In medicine, patients need to feel safe sharing their symptoms, concerns, and fears about their health. Without that open communication, important details might be left out, which can affect the diagnosis and treatment plan. I have seen how crucial it is for a patient to feel empowered to speak their truth, especially when it comes to their own bodies. When patients are able to express themselves, healthcare providers can offer better, more accurate care. On the flip side, free expression is just as vital within the medical field itself. As healthcare professionals, we are constantly learning, evolving, and refining our practices. Open discussions and the sharing of new ideas or even criticisms are how we continue to grow. It is easy to get stuck in the way things have always been done, but it is when people challenge the status quo that we find new ways to improve patient care and health outcomes. Innovation in healthcare often comes from having the space to express bold or unconventional ideas without fear of judgment or retaliation. But it is not always that simple. There are times when societal pressures, political influences, or even fear of backlash can silence these important conversations. I think of healthcare workers who want to speak out about working conditions or the ethical implications of certain treatments but are afraid to because of the consequences. I know how difficult it can be to voice concerns when the environment around you feels discouraging or threatening. That is why protecting free expression in healthcare is so important and without it, we risk stalling progress and leaving problems unaddressed. To protect and promote free expression, we must create spaces where healthcare workers and patients alike feel safe and supported in speaking their truth. I believe this can start with education, encouraging people to have difficult conversations and to be open to hearing perspectives that challenge their own. We also need to advocate for policies that protect those who speak out, ensuring that no one feels they have to stay silent out of fear. When we protect free expression, we allow for greater innovation, healthier work environments, and ultimately better care for patients. For me, it is clear that free expression in medicine is not just a theoretical ideal, it is a practical tool that can change lives. It is a way to improve not only individual care but also the entire healthcare system. If we all work to safeguard this right, we will continue to create a space where everyone has a voice and is treated with respect, dignity, and care.

I chose to pursue a career in healthcare because I am deeply passionate about helping others, especially those who face challenges in accessing the care they need. My decision to become a nurse and ultimately a Family Nurse Practitioner was inspired by both personal experiences and my desire to make a tangible difference in the lives of individuals and communities, particularly those underserved by the healthcare system. Growing up in a family that often faced socioeconomic adversity, I saw firsthand how limited access to healthcare could impact overall well-being. Family members struggled to receive proper care due to financial constraints or lack of insurance, which sometimes resulted in worsening conditions and preventable complications. These experiences fueled my determination to pursue a path that would allow me to help people overcome similar barriers and receive the care they deserve. Nursing is a natural fit for me because it combines my passion for patient advocacy with a practical skill set that allows me to make a direct, positive impact. As I began my education in nursing, I was drawn to the holistic nature of the profession. I believe that healthcare is not just about treating illness but also about empowering individuals to live healthier lives through education, prevention, and comprehensive care. I want to use my degree to address the healthcare disparities that exist in our society, particularly in underserved communities. As a Family Nurse Practitioner, I will be able to offer a broader scope of care, focusing on preventive measures, chronic disease management, and health promotion. This aligns with my long-term goal of opening a practice in an underserved community where I can provide accessible and affordable care. I believe that access to quality healthcare is a right, not a privilege, and I am committed to helping individuals who may otherwise fall through the cracks of the healthcare system. By providing compassionate, patient-centered care, I hope to foster trust with patients and help them take charge of their health. In the future, I plan to use my degree not only to provide direct care to individuals but also to advocate for systemic changes that improve healthcare access for all. This may involve working with community organizations, engaging in policy reform, and collaborating with other healthcare providers to create resources for those in need. I want to make a lasting impact by ensuring that all people, regardless of their socioeconomic background, can access the healthcare they need to live healthy, fulfilling lives.

My name is Brittany Nobels, and I am currently a nursing student with a deep passion for healthcare. My journey into this field has been shaped by both personal and academic experiences, which have influenced my career aspirations. I plan to pursue a career as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), which will allow me to provide comprehensive care to individuals, especially those in underserved communities. Growing up in a family that struggled with socioeconomic challenges, I witnessed firsthand the barriers that exist when trying to access quality healthcare. There were times when family members had to delay or forgo medical treatments due to financial limitations or lack of insurance, which often led to worsened health outcomes. These experiences ignited a desire in me to become part of a solution in addressing healthcare disparities. I knew that I wanted to work in a capacity where I could bridge the gap between quality healthcare and underserved communities, and nursing became the perfect fit. As a nursing student, I have been able to develop a foundational knowledge of patient care, and I’m deeply committed to improving health outcomes through prevention and patient education. I have always been drawn to family medicine because it provides an opportunity to build long-term relationships with patients and their families, understanding their medical histories, cultural backgrounds, and unique health needs. Family Nurse Practitioners have the ability to offer preventive care, manage chronic conditions, and provide ongoing support to individuals and families over time. This holistic approach to care is something that resonates with me because I believe in treating the person, not just the illness. In my clinical rotations, I have worked with diverse populations, including those facing financial difficulties and limited access to care. I’ve seen how a lack of resources can exacerbate health problems, and this has motivated me to pursue a role where I can help people navigate the healthcare system. As a nurse practitioner, I plan to provide not only medical treatment but also educate my patients on the importance of preventative care, healthy lifestyle choices, and accessing care early to avoid more serious health issues. I want to be a resource to my patients, helping them make informed decisions about their health and advocating for them when they need it most. My ultimate goal is to open a practice in an underserved community, where I can provide accessible and affordable care. I am committed to improving the health of individuals who are often overlooked or underserved by the traditional healthcare system. By offering compassionate, patient-centered care, I aim to empower individuals to take control of their health and lead healthier lives. In addition to direct patient care, I also want to engage in community outreach programs, providing education and support to help people understand how they can improve their well-being. I also plan to advocate for policy changes that make healthcare more accessible and equitable for all. Ultimately, my experiences and my education have solidified my desire to pursue a career as a Family Nurse Practitioner, where I can make a lasting impact on both individual patients and the communities I serve. By combining my medical knowledge, passion for helping others, and commitment to addressing health disparities, I believe I can contribute to a more equitable and compassionate healthcare system.

From a young age, I have always been driven by the desire to help others, especially in times of need. This sense of purpose has grown stronger as I have encountered various challenges in my life, particularly those stemming from socioeconomic adversity. These experiences have not only shaped my understanding of hardship but have also been instrumental in developing my skills and passion for helping others. My journey into healthcare began with a personal commitment to understanding the struggles people face, particularly in the context of financial and emotional difficulties. As a nursing student balancing school, work, and family responsibilities, I have learned to manage multiple priorities while maintaining a focus on the well-being of those around me. These life experiences have honed my time-management and problem-solving skills, as I learned to navigate and respond to various challenges. While my academic training in nursing has provided me with the technical skills to care for patients, it is the compassion and empathy I have developed through my own life experiences that truly drive my passion for helping others. I have worked with people from diverse backgrounds who face health disparities, often due to financial or systemic barriers. These encounters have deeply influenced my understanding of the healthcare system and reinforced my desire to be a part of the solution. One of the pivotal moments in my journey occurred during a clinical rotation, where I was able to advocate for a patient who faced cultural and financial barriers to accessing proper care. By listening, offering resources, and coordinating care with various healthcare professionals, I was able to ensure the patient received the support they needed. This experience deepened my commitment to serving underserved communities, where I hope to open my own practice one day, focusing on providing accessible care to those who need it most. I have made it my life’s purpose to help others, not just as a nurse, but as a person who actively seeks to make a difference in the lives of individuals facing adversity. Whether it is volunteering at local shelters, supporting healthcare education initiatives, or simply offering a listening ear, I find purpose in showing others that they are not alone. My passion for helping others goes beyond providing healthcare. It is about creating connections, advocating for systemic changes that improve access to care, and making a lasting impact in the lives of the people I serve. Ultimately, my goal is to combine my technical skills, compassionate care, and advocacy to help those in need, especially within underserved communities. I am committed to making a positive impact in healthcare and society, ensuring that no one is left behind due to financial, cultural, or systemic barriers.

My journey has been shaped by both the challenges and strengths that come with experiencing socioeconomic adversity. As a student pursuing a nursing degree while managing the demands of family, work, and academic responsibilities, I have learned firsthand the impact that financial struggles can have on both mental and physical well-being. This experience has not only fueled my determination to achieve my educational and professional goals but has also inspired me to give back to my community in ways that can address these challenges. Growing up, my family faced financial difficulties that made it difficult to access resources that others might take for granted. I’ve seen how these hardships can create barriers to healthcare, education, and even basic needs like food and housing. This has led me to develop a strong belief in the importance of accessibility and support for underserved communities. My goal is to become a nurse practitioner, and eventually open my own practice in an underserved area, where I can provide not only medical care but also resources and guidance for individuals who, like me, have had to navigate difficult circumstances. Experiencing socioeconomic adversity has deeply influenced my relationships with others and my approach to life. I’ve learned the importance of empathy, patience, and resilience in the face of challenges. It has also fostered a sense of solidarity with those who are struggling. I believe that my experience allows me to connect with patients and others in my community in a way that shows them they are not alone. In my future work, I plan to offer care that is not just clinical but holistic, understanding the socioeconomic factors that may affect someone’s health and well-being. In addition to my work as a nurse, I plan to be an advocate for addressing healthcare inequalities by volunteering with local organizations that provide services to those in need. I have seen how much of a difference a small act of kindness or a shared resource can make in someone’s life. Whether it’s organizing free health screenings, providing educational resources on nutrition and wellness, or simply being a reliable support system, I want to contribute to breaking the cycle of socioeconomic adversity in my community. Experiencing these struggles has also shaped my future plans. I aim to create opportunities for others who face similar obstacles, whether that’s through mentoring, scholarship programs, or supporting efforts to increase access to education and healthcare for all. By becoming a healthcare provider, I will not only be able to give back through direct patient care but also through advocating for policies that make healthcare more affordable and accessible for everyone, regardless of their socioeconomic status.

I am about to dive into my journey, which will take six years to fulfill. My educational goals are to earn an Associate in Applied Science degree in Nursing from St. Louis Community College, in hopes of gaining work experience at Cardinal Glennon. I would love the opportunity to work there with children and their families while gaining a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree at the University of Missouri-St. Louis. I will strive to succeed and pursue a Master of Science in Nursing to become a family nurse practitioner there also. My career plans are to open a practice in an underserved community and provide the best care possible with the skills I will learn. Once I have tenure in nursing, I also want to teach these skills to up-and-coming nurses in the field. I came from a low-income family, so it is not far-fetched that I received most of my basic care in area clinics. As far as I can remember, I was always excited about seeing my doctor on yearly visits regarding my overall health. At six months old, I suffered a pediatric skull fracture that left a hole in my frontal bone. The doctors wanted to give enough time to see if the hole would close on its own before performing any surgeries. Nonetheless, the hole never healed without medical attention. The procedure involved taking part of the occipital bone and placing it in the frontal area of the skull. This procedure was done at Cardinal Glennon, St. Louis. The doctors told my mother that I may have vision issues and some learning disabilities as long-term effects down the line. She made sure to keep medical appointments for me, but I did not understand how vital these appointments were until I started learning about growth development in high school. I took general studies courses in high school, so I have a great memory of my biology teacher. We always looked at microorganisms, until one day, she did a segment on enzymes and their roles in brain function. From there, I was intrigued by how the body worked and started to read about the basics of Anatomy. I began to understand more about our lively functions and read about growth development. I was able to graduate, going on to have children. My family never steered me away from my dreams of being in the health field, so I received a Certified Nursing Assistant license and cared for the residents as if they were my own family. I loved the feeling of becoming a dementia unit familiarity, but I knew the position was a steppingstone to continue to change lives. In the Fall of 2024, I will begin the nursing program at Florissant Valley, St. Louis, and I know it will prepare me to provide care for anyone who comes my way. I look forward to fulfilling my journey and giving back to the world with my knowledge. It starts with taking the initiative and maintaining my resilience.

I am about to dive into my journey, which will take six years to fulfill. My educational goals are to earn an Associate in Applied Science degree in Nursing from St. Louis Community College, in hopes of gaining work experience at Cardinal Glennon. I would love the opportunity to work there with children and their families while gaining a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree at the University of Missouri-St. Louis. I will strive to succeed and pursue a Master of Science in Nursing to become a family nurse practitioner there also. My career plans are to open a practice in an underserved community and provide the best care possible with the skills I will learn. Once I have tenure in nursing, I also want to teach these skills to up-and-coming nurses in the field. I came from a low-income family, so it is not far-fetched that I received most of my basic care in area clinics. As far as I can remember, I was always excited about seeing my doctor on yearly visits regarding my overall health. At six months old, I suffered a pediatric skull fracture that left a hole in my frontal bone. The doctors wanted to give enough time to see if the hole would close on its own before performing any surgeries. Nonetheless, the hole never healed without medical attention. The procedure involved taking part of the occipital bone and placing it in the frontal area of the skull. This procedure was done at Cardinal Glennon, St. Louis. The doctors told my mother that I may have vision issues and some learning disabilities as long-term effects down the line. She made sure to keep medical appointments for me, but I did not understand how vital these appointments were until I started learning about growth development in high school. I took general studies courses in high school, so I have a great memory of my biology teacher. We always looked at microorganisms, until one day, she did a segment on enzymes and their roles in brain function. From there, I was intrigued by how the body worked and started to read about the basics of anatomy. I began to understand more about our lively functions and started reading about growth development. I was able to graduate, going on to have children. My family never steered me away from my dreams of being in the health field, so I received my Certified Nursing Assistant license and took care of the residents as if they were my own family. I loved the feeling of becoming a dementia unit familiarity, but I knew the position was a stepping stone to continue to change lives. In the Fall of 2024, I will begin the Nursing program at Florissant Valley, St. Louis, and I know it will prepare me to provide care for anyone who comes my way. I look forward to fulfilling my journey and being able to give back to the world with my knowledge. It starts with taking the initiative.