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Celeste Burkholder

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Finalist

General information

Hobbies & Interests

  • Community Service And Volunteering
  • History
  • Animals
  • Cooking
  • Journaling
  • Travel And Tourism
  • Cognitive Science
  • Health Sciences
  • Nursing
  • Writing
  • Research
  • Nutrition and Health
  • Government
  • Student Council or Student Government
  • Psychology

Reading

  • Academic
  • Realistic Fiction
  • Fantasy
  • Contemporary
  • Classics
  • Young Adult

I read books daily.

Bio

Hi there! I'm Celeste, and I'm absolutely thrilled to dive into the world of medicine, with a focus on nursing and oneday become a DNP! My goal? To fuse my passions for emapathetic care, cutting-edge science, healthcare policy, and social activism into revolutionizing our healthcare system to truly care for all people and improve the lives of those in my community by making meaningful change and being an advocate. My radar is tuned to the potential of plant-based living (yep, veganism!) in not just preventing and reversing chronic diseases but also in combating the challenge of climate change. With a steadfast commitment spanning 7 years as a vegan, I'm deeply invested in the well-being of our planet and in teaching and inspiring others to care as well! Every sunrise brings with it a renewed dedication to its protection! Community transformation? Count me in! I thrive on catalyzing positive change, not just locally, but on a global scale. Involved on campus in the Leadership Scholarship Program at ASU, I am a leader of my cohort where we do social change projects; currently, we are working on creating care boxes for Foster youth in group homes to bring joy and spread kindness. I believe through education, social advocacy, and dialogue on today’s issues, we can bring about a better tomorrow. I aim to make a big difference in my community by helping Arizona's furry friends. As a committed rescue cat foster with Saving One Life, I've provided sanctuary, medication, and adoption services to over 75 cats, ensuring they receive the care they need off the streets.

Education

Arizona State University-Downtown Phoenix

Bachelor's degree program

2023 – 2026

Majors:
  • Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing

Horizon Honors Secondary School

High School

2019 – 2023

Miscellaneous

Desired degree level:
Doctoral degree program (PhD, MD, JD, etc.)
Graduate schools of interest:
University of Arizona
Majors of interest:
Health/Medical Preparatory Programs
Medical school interest:
Yes

Career

  • Babysitting

    Education · Busy Bees

    Jan 2024 – Present

Miscellaneous

Dream career field:
Medicine
Dream career goals:
Pediatric Hospice Nurse
Has nursing license:
No

Future Interests

  • Advocacy
  • Politics
  • Volunteering
  • Philanthropy
Scholarship Institute’s Annual Women’s Leadership Scholarship
From a young age, I’ve been a forward-thinking leader, eager to learn and explore the world around me. My fascination with science and nature led me to delve into the intricacies of botany, only to be confronted with the harsh realities of corporate negligence. Learning about companies like Monsanto, responsible for producing harmful substances like Agent Orange and decimating bee populations with pesticides, stirred anger within me. The realization that such actions directly jeopardize our health and environment spurred me into action. I took to the streets, crafting homemade posters and rallying my peers to raise awareness about these pressing issues. My commitment to protecting the environment, my community, and social justice deepened further as I transitioned to a vegan lifestyle at the age of 12, appalled by learning of the inhumane practices rampant in the meat and dairy industries. Documentaries catalyzed a radical change in my lifestyle, my future trajectory, and how I would see the world. As my parents and I sat together, captivated by emotional stories and compelling evidence, I realized that not only was this food unhealthy for our bodies, but it was leading to chronic diseases. I had discovered my life’s purpose: to harness my love for science and passion for health to help others. Inspired by leaders such as Jane Goodall and Michael Greger, who champion health and advocate for a harmonious coexistence with our planet, I resolved to be a catalyst for positive change and fight for our health against corrupt industries. As I pursue my nursing degree, I’ve gained firsthand insight into the exploitative nature of the pharmaceutical industry, which prioritizes profit over patient well-being. Living in one of the only countries that permits drug commercials, we often opt for medication as a quick fix rather than addressing underlying issues, and I am an advocate to stop this. On campus, I am part of a select group of students in the Leadership Scholarship Program, which has allowed me to channel my passions into tangible action with other motivated students, from positive advocacy on campus, such as transitioning to healthier options and initiating direct dialogue, to leading awareness about climate action. We must adapt to healthier living as a society, fight inequity, and stand for what is right. What inspires me to engage with my community is a deep-seated passion for helping those in need and knowing that when I am a nurse one day I can continue to make an influence and educate my peers to influence those around us. My life’s purpose revolves around aiding others, driven by a profound empathy for both individuals and our world at large. Witnessing the struggles of those less fortunate than myself ignites a fire within me. Despite being fortunate enough to have loving parents and a supportive family, it pains me to see deserving, kind-hearted individuals endure hardships. The prevalence of hate and division in society, juxtaposed with the pressing needs of countless people, fuels my determination to effect change. I want to be the voice for change and am not afraid to advocate, speak my truth and raise awareness for the most pressing issue. Education, advocacy, and open dialogue can pave the way for a brighter tomorrow. By addressing the pressing issues of our time head-on, I am committed to fostering positive change and leaving a lasting impact on my community and beyond.
Walking In Authority International Ministry Scholarship
From a young age, I’ve been a forward-thinking leader, eager to learn and explore the world around me. My fascination with science and nature led me to delve into the intricacies of botany, only to be confronted with the harsh realities of corporate negligence. Learning about companies like Monsanto, responsible for producing harmful substances like Agent Orange and decimating bee populations with pesticides, stirred anger within me. The realization that such actions directly jeopardize our health and environment spurred me into action. I took to the streets, crafting homemade posters and rallying my peers to raise awareness about these pressing issues. My commitment to protecting the environment, my community, and social justice deepened further as I transitioned to a vegan lifestyle at the age of 12, appalled by learning of the inhumane practices rampant in the meat and dairy industries. Documentaries catalyzed a radical change in my lifestyle, my future trajectory, and how I would see the world. As my parents and I sat together, captivated by emotional stories and compelling evidence, I realized that not only was this food unhealthy for our bodies, but it was leading to chronic diseases. I had discovered my life’s purpose: to harness my love for science and passion for health to help others. Inspired by leaders such as Jane Goodall and Michael Greger, who champion health and advocate for a harmonious coexistence with our planet, I resolved to be a catalyst for positive change and fight for our health against corrupt industries. As I pursue my nursing degree, I’ve gained firsthand insight into the exploitative nature of the pharmaceutical industry, which prioritizes profit over patient well-being. Living in one of the only countries that permits drug commercials, we often opt for medication as a quick fix rather than addressing underlying issues, and I am an advocate to stop this. On campus, I am part of a select group of students in the Leadership Scholarship Program, which has allowed me to channel my passions into tangible action with other motivated students, from positive advocacy on campus, such as transitioning to healthier options and initiating direct dialogue, to leading awareness about climate action. We must adapt to healthier living as a society, fight inequity, and stand for what is right. What inspires me to engage with my community is a deep-seated passion for helping those in need. My life’s purpose revolves around aiding others, driven by a profound empathy for both individuals and our world at large. Witnessing the struggles of those less fortunate than myself ignites a fire within me. Despite being fortunate enough to have loving parents and a supportive family, it pains me to see deserving, kind-hearted individuals endure hardships. The prevalence of hate and division in society, juxtaposed with the pressing needs of countless people, fuels my determination to effect change. Education, advocacy, and open dialogue can pave the way for a brighter tomorrow. By addressing the pressing issues of our time head-on, I am committed to fostering positive change and leaving a lasting impact on my community and beyond.
Disney Channel Rewind Scholarship
Title: "Liv and Maddie Meet Jessie: Hollywood Hijinks" Plot: In a crossover event that no one saw coming, Liv Rooney from "Liv and Maddie" and Jessie Prescott from "Jessie" find themselves in a whirlwind adventure that takes them from their daily lives into the bustling streets of Hollywood. It all starts when Liv, an aspiring actress, lands a guest-starring role on a popular teen drama filming in Los Angeles. In this episode, Liv, eager to make the most of her opportunity, she invites her twin sister Maddie, and their quirky younger brother Joey to join her on the trip. Meanwhile, Jessie, the beloved nanny from the Ross family, is hired to play a nanny on the same show bringing Luke along. As fate would have it, Liv and Maddie's flight to Los Angeles coincides with Jessie's own journey to the West Coast. Their paths collide in the airport, where they hilariously run into each other, literally colliding as they both try to catch their connecting flight, leading to a series of comedic mishaps as the two groups try to navigate the chaos of travel. Once in Hollywood, Liv is thrilled to immerse herself in the entertainment industry and Maddie is enjoying the outdoor side of LA, where Joey decides to find an interest and make mischief on the set. However, their excitement quickly turns to dismay when they discover that the show they're guest-starring on is being helmed by a demanding director who doesn't appreciate Liv's unique talents. Determined to prove herself, Liv decides to take matters into her own hands and stage a stunt to save the day with the help of Joey who is eager to wreak some havoc. Meanwhile, Jessie finds herself juggling the demands of her new job while trying to keep an eye on the Ross kid, Luke who decided to tag along on the shoot. When Joey accidentally wanders onto the set and causes chaos, Jessie busy rehearsing her lines, must have Lukes help to race against the clock to prevent a catastrophe and protect her job. Luke ends up meeting Joey as he is getting out of creating mischief meant to help Liv. As Liv's stunt and Joey's antics converge in a hilarious climax, Liv, Maddie, Jessie, and the Ross kids who end up coming for the show must work together to salvage the production and ensure that everyone gets their happy ending. Along the way, they learn valuable lessons about friendship, family, and following their dreams. In the end, Liv's star shines brighter than ever, Jessie earns the respect of her Hollywood peers, and the Ross kids discover that sometimes, the best adventures are the ones you share with the people you love.
Vegan Teens Are The Future Scholarship
Since I was little, I have always had animals in my life. Their pure unconditional love was the most precious gift of companionship like no other, giving me a passion for protecting them, and for the last five years, I have been entirely vegan. And, through my research and calling for protecting them, a fierce advocate. After a childhood of raising chickens and cats, visits to nearby farms, and living closely with these precious beings, I gave up all animal products as a personal way to resist exploitation by the meat and dairy industries of these innocent animals. I believed they didn't deserve this fate; why are animals destined to be slaughtered or milked till they can no longer produce? I wanted no part in this corrupt and well-covered-up ingrained cruelty in our society. Unlike us, animals are powerless against the growing world of capital motivations, habitat loss, and other crises humans are responsible for. My empathy extends to animals because I choose to acknowledge the extraordinary cruelties inflicted on them every day, and my passion for staying vegan is fueled by awareness and outrage at the food system and how so many people choose to ignore the abuses. I believe education of the public is vital in shifting our society toward a more sustainable future, and as someone entering into the field of healthcare, I can promote this lifestyle. It is not only healthier but also better for our earth. The future is veganism, and it is the only way to sustain our bodies and minimize disease and inflammation but also damage to our planet. Consuming animal products only perpetuates these issues of climate change and health problems that damage our world's livelihood incalculably. Animals are sentient beings able to love and feel but lack defense, so this is why advocating for their protection and care is so important to me. We each have the ability to do our part in stopping cruelty through what we eat- and it makes a difference in their lives. Being vegan is a central part of my life because of how deeply I have felt a connection and harmony with the animals in my life, and getting other people to see that is important to me. On a small scale, continuing to educate my friends and community is an impact I am already making, but I feel I can do so much more through my professional career in healthcare. Providing research and resources and invoking curiosity to learn are all ways to form the basis of a plant-based and sustainable lifestyle. I believe not just household pets deserve our compassion— whether they have paws or hooves, as humans, we must take care of these precious beings and protect them because who else will?
Students for Animal Advocacy Scholarship
I believe that animals are sentient beings able to love and feel and that advocating for their protection and care is part of our job as they are all too much hurt and exploited. Since I was little, I have always had animals in my life, and their pure unconditional love made me feel so appreciative of them. After raising chickens and cats and living closely with these precious beings, I gave up all animal products as a personal way to resist exploitation by the meat and dairy industry, as I believed they didn't deserve this. Unlike us, animals are powerless against the growing world of capital motivations, habitat loss, and other problems humans have inflicted, so when I came across an opportunity to save them from being euthanized or dying on the streets through a non-profit, I jumped on this meaningful way to counteract the cruelty inflicted on animals by lifting them up instead. After recently moving to Arizona from Oregon without any pets, the pandemic started. Being an only child at home, isolated from others, I longed for a purpose or way to help the community. As an animal lover and vegan, I witnessed the hundreds of stray cats populating the streets of Phoenix in my neighborhood. These cats had no protection from the extreme Arizona heat and lacked clean water resources or protection. I immediately sought ways to help these vulnerable cats and found a non-profit, volunteer-run, never-kill animal rescue organization, Saving One Life. After reading about how devoted the organization was to helping animals, I applied and became involved in helping rescue the animals in my community by opening up my home to foster and get them through the vetting process. My roles include daily oral medications, ear mite, ringworm, and antibiotic treatments, intake and medical tracking forms, supply pickups; arranging alters and vaccinations; socialization; conducting adoption finalization; mentor and leadership communication; posting profiles; hosting meet and greets; and working at adoption events along with regular cleaning cages, bathing, and feeding. Since then, in the last two years and four months in counting, over 50 beautiful kittens and cats have grown up in my house, each as loving, in need of care, and vulnerable to the world as the last. Their lives rely on me, and I advocate for them. So many of the cats I care for are sick, dehydrated, or have other serious problems. As a foster, I must speak for them, triage them, and ensure their well-being by ensuring they receive the necessary medical attention. Humans have done so much to take from the creatures, so this calling to save and care for them has adapted into my passion. I could have never imagined how the neediest of cats and the responsibility to care enough to save their lives would make me want to do this for the rest of my life. Although I cannot save all the cats from the hot streets of Arizona or the humane society where many are put to rest, being able to foster so many so far has given me a perspective on how special animals are, how happy the adopters are when they get them, and how each has an ability to bring joy to our lives. So in return, it is our job to take care of these precious beings and protect them because who else will?
Celeste Burkholder Student Profile | Bold.org