The spark that ignited my pursuit of higher education in the field of health sciences was a deeply personal and transformative event in my life—the loss of my father to cancer. This devastating experience, while shrouded in sorrow, was also the catalyst that propelled me toward a path of healing and service. As a nursing student, I am now dedicated to using my education to make a tangible difference in the lives of individuals and families facing similar challenges. The pain of losing my father to cancer was a seismic event that reshaped my world. It was in those moments of grief and anguish that I truly grasped the profound impact that compassionate healthcare can have on individuals and their families. The nurses who cared for my father became more than medical providers; they were beacons of empathy, offering not only skilled treatment but also a comforting presence that eased the burden of his illness. Their dedication left an indelible impression on me, revealing the true essence of nursing—a profession that combines science with a profound capacity for human connection. Witnessing the transformative power of healthcare during my father's illness planted the seed of inspiration within me. It was a calling that resonated on a deeply personal level. The decision to pursue nursing was not simply a career choice; it was a mission to be a source of comfort and support for others facing similar trials. It was a way to honor my father's memory, to carry forward the values he held dear—compassion, integrity, and unwavering support for those in need. Nursing, as a field of science, is a multidimensional discipline that fuses medical knowledge with the art of compassionate care. What excites me most about this field is the opportunity to provide holistic care that addresses not only the physical aspects of health but also the emotional and psychological well-being of patients and their families. It is about forging connections, building trust, and being a steadfast advocate for those in need. The prospect of learning and mastering the intricate nuances of nursing is a journey I undertake with great enthusiasm. Each lesson, and each clinical experience, is a stepping stone toward becoming a competent and compassionate nurse. It is a dynamic field that requires continuous growth and adaptation, and I am eager to embrace the challenges that lie ahead. Moreover, nursing provides a platform for advocacy and community impact. I am excited about the potential to contribute to initiatives that promote health education, disease prevention, and mental well-being. By leveraging my education, I hope to be a catalyst for positive change within communities, working towards a future where individuals are empowered to take charge of their own health and well-being. In conclusion, my motivation to pursue higher education in the field of health sciences is deeply rooted in a personal experience that illuminated the transformative power of compassionate healthcare. As a nursing student, I am dedicated to using my education to make a tangible difference in the lives of individuals and families facing health challenges. Nursing, with its blend of science and empathy, excites me because it provides an avenue to provide holistic care and be a source of comfort and support for those in need. This journey is not just a career path, but a calling to be a beacon of hope and healing for others.

Joining the healthcare industry is not simply a career choice for me; it is a deeply personal mission that is intertwined with my identity as a military wife, a nursing student, and the daughter of a proud United States Navy veteran. Each facet of my life has shaped my mission in healthcare, instilling in me a deep sense of purpose and a profound understanding of the impact that compassionate care can have on individuals and their families. As a military wife, I have witnessed the sacrifices and challenges that come with a life of service to one's country. The demands of deployments, the uncertainties, and the moments of profound pride have all woven a tapestry of experiences that have shaped my perspective on care and service. It is through these experiences that I have come to understand the unique needs and concerns of military families, and it is my mission to be a steadfast source of support and understanding for them. The heart-wrenching loss of my father, a United States Navy veteran, was a pivotal moment that solidified my commitment to the healthcare industry. His service to our country instilled in me a profound respect for the sacrifices made by military personnel and their families. It is with this understanding that I approach my education in nursing, driven by the desire to provide exceptional care to those who have served and their loved ones. In nursing school, I am not only acquiring the technical skills and knowledge necessary for the profession but also immersing myself in a culture of empathy and compassion. Every lesson, every clinical rotation, is an opportunity to further refine my ability to provide not only medical care but also emotional support and understanding. It is a journey of growth, both professionally and personally, as I strive to be the best advocate and caregiver I can be. Furthermore, my mission in joining the healthcare industry extends beyond the military community. It encompasses a dedication to serving all individuals, regardless of their background or circumstance. I believe that healthcare is a fundamental right, and it is my duty to ensure that every patient I encounter receives the highest quality of care possible. As a military wife, I have witnessed firsthand the resilience and strength that define our service members and their families. It is my mission to be a pillar of support for them, providing care that acknowledges their unique experiences and addresses their specific needs. I aim to create an environment of trust and understanding, where military families feel heard, valued, and supported in their healthcare journey. Moreover, my mission encompasses a commitment to advocacy and education. I aspire to use my platform as a healthcare professional to raise awareness about the challenges faced by military families, from the stresses of deployment to the complexities of navigating military healthcare systems. By being a vocal advocate, I hope to contribute to initiatives that improve the healthcare experience for this deserving community. In conclusion, my mission in joining the healthcare industry is a multifaceted commitment that stems from my experiences as a military wife, a nursing student, and the daughter of a Navy veteran. It is a mission grounded in compassion, understanding and a deep respect for the sacrifices made by military personnel and their families. Through education, advocacy, and unwavering support, I aim to be a beacon of compassion and service for all those entrusted to my care.

Pursuing a career in nursing is not just a professional aspiration for me; it is a deeply personal commitment that carries immense significance. At 26, I stand at the threshold of a profession that I wholeheartedly believe will allow me to make a tangible difference in the lives of individuals and their families. This path was not a casual choice, but rather a purposeful decision that stems from a pivotal event in my life—the loss of my best friend and confidant, my father. Losing my father was a profound and defining moment. It shattered my world, leaving behind an indelible mark on my heart. Witnessing his journey, and navigating the complexities of illness, ignited within me a fervent determination to be a source of comfort and support for others facing similar challenges. It was during those difficult times that I experienced firsthand the transformative power of compassionate healthcare. The nurses who cared for my father were not just medical professionals; they were beacons of empathy, providing not only skilled treatment but also a comforting presence that eased the burden of his illness. Their dedication left an indelible impression on me, revealing the true essence of nursing—a profession that combines science with a profound capacity for human connection. Every step I take in my journey towards becoming a nurse is infused with the memory of my father. It is a way to honor his memory, to carry forward the values he held dear—compassion, integrity, and unwavering support for those in need. Pursuing this career is my way of paying tribute to the man who inspired me to seek out a profession where I can make a tangible difference in the lives of others. Moreover, nursing embodies a unique blend of science, empathy, and advocacy that aligns perfectly with my values and aspirations. It provides a platform to bridge the gap between clinical expertise and emotional support, offering a holistic approach to healing. I am eager to contribute to a field that not only addresses the physical aspects of health but also attends to the emotional well-being of patients and their families. As a nursing student, I am dedicated to absorbing every ounce of knowledge and skill that will enable me to provide the highest quality of care. Each lesson, and each clinical rotation, is a stepping stone towards becoming a competent and compassionate nurse. It is a journey that I undertake with a sense of purpose, knowing that every bit of education I acquire is an investment in the lives I will touch in the future. In conclusion, pursuing a career in nursing is more than a professional goal for me; it is a calling that emanates from a deep-seated desire to make a positive impact on the lives of those in need. Losing my father was a transformative event that set me on this path, and I approach this journey with a profound sense of purpose and dedication. Through education, compassion, and unwavering support, I aim to honor my father's memory and carry forward the values that he instilled in me.

The grip of addiction is a relentless force that can leave even the strongest soul feeling powerless and adrift. As a college student, I was no exception. What began as casual experimentation with alcohol and drugs soon morphed into a consuming struggle, transforming my once promising future into a haze of chaos and despair. In the throes of addiction, my life felt like a fragmented puzzle. Days bled into nights, and the world around me became a blurry, disjointed landscape. The once vivid dreams and aspirations of college life were overshadowed by the all-encompassing need for substances. Relationships frayed, dreams faltered, and I watched helplessly as the person I once was slipped away. The turning point was a revelation wrapped in the fragile hope of new life. The discovery that I was expecting my first child was a powerful beacon of change. It pulled me from the abyss, demanding that I confront my demons and forge a path towards sobriety. The prospect of becoming a parent became my lifeline, the force that propelled me towards redemption. Sobriety was not an easy road. It demanded unyielding determination, an unshakeable support system, and an unwavering commitment to self-discovery. With the love of my family and the guidance of dedicated counselors, I embarked on a journey of healing, inching toward the person I aspire to be. Since embracing sobriety, my life has undergone a seismic transformation. The birth of my children marked a rebirth of my own. Parenthood became the foundation upon which I rebuilt my life, a constant reminder of the responsibility I bore towards their well-being and future. They became my greatest motivation, spurring me to not only maintain my sobriety but to thrive in my newfound purpose. Enrolling in nursing school was the next step in my evolution. It was a decision grounded in a profound desire to use my experiences to help others. Through education, I am arming myself with the knowledge and skills to be a beacon of hope for those ensnared in the clutches of addiction. I aim to create a sanctuary of support and understanding, drawing upon my own journey as a testament to the possibility of redemption. In my future career as a nurse, I aspire to specialize in addiction recovery. I believe that compassionate care, coupled with evidence-based approaches, holds the key to breaking the cycle of addiction. I envision myself providing not only medical treatment but also emotional support and guidance, recognizing that healing encompasses the entirety of a person's being. Furthermore, I am committed to advocating for addiction awareness and mental health support within communities. I hope to participate in initiatives that destigmatize addiction, opening doors for individuals to seek help without fear or judgment. By sharing my story, I aspire to inspire hope and demonstrate that recovery is not only attainable but also a catalyst for transformative change. In conclusion, my journey through addiction has been a crucible of self-discovery, resilience, and ultimate redemption. Sobriety has not only granted me a second chance at life but also a renewed sense of purpose. As I traverse the path of nursing education, I am propelled by a fervent passion to use my experiences to aid others in their pursuit of recovery. Through advocacy, education, and compassionate care, I hope to contribute to a future where individuals battling addiction find the support and resources they need to reclaim their lives.

In the heart of my pursuit of a nursing career lies a profound understanding of loss. Having lost my father to cancer, I intimately empathize with families navigating the complexities of illness. This personal experience has ignited a fervent determination to make a difference in the world through my nursing career. Losing my father was an experience that reshaped my worldview. It was in those moments of grief, amidst the anguish and uncertainty, that I truly grasped the transformative power of healthcare. The compassionate care he received not only alleviated his suffering, but also provided solace to my family. Witnessing the nurses who tended to him, I realized the profound impact a nurse can have on the lives of patients and their loved ones. It was then that I knew I wanted to be a part of this noble profession. As a nursing student, I am deeply committed to providing holistic care that extends beyond clinical expertise. I believe that empathy is at the core of nursing, and it is through genuine understanding that we can truly make a difference. With each patient, I aim to create a space where they feel heard, valued, and supported. I strive to be a source of comfort during their most vulnerable moments, drawing upon my own experiences of loss to provide empathetic care. Furthermore, I believe that nursing is not just a career, but a calling to be of service to others. It is a privilege and an honor to be entrusted with the well-being of patients, and I approach this responsibility with the utmost dedication and humility. I am committed to continuous learning and professional growth to ensure that I am equipped to provide the highest quality of care possible. Beyond the bedside, I am driven to contribute to the broader field of oncology and bereavement support. I aim to be a voice for families who have experienced loss, advocating for comprehensive care that addresses not only the physical aspects of illness, but also the emotional and psychological well-being of patients and their loved ones. Through research, advocacy, and community outreach, I hope to contribute to advancements in oncological care that provide better support and resources for families facing similar challenges. In addition, I am dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of mental health support for families dealing with loss. Grief is a complex and often isolating experience, and I believe that open conversations and accessible resources can make a significant difference in the healing process. Through community education and participation in mental health initiatives, I hope to create a more supportive and understanding environment for families coping with loss. In conclusion, my journey in nursing is fueled by a deep sense of empathy and a commitment to making a difference in the lives of those facing illness and loss. My personal experience has shaped my approach to care, emphasizing the importance of compassion, understanding, and support. Through my nursing career, I aim to be a source of comfort and strength for families, drawing upon my own experiences to provide genuine, empathetic care. Additionally, I am determined to contribute to the broader field of bereavement support, working towards a future where families receive comprehensive and compassionate assistance during their most challenging moments.

In my dream version of my future self as a nurse, I envision a compassionate advocate who provides unwavering support and comfort to patients and their families, while also actively contributing to the advancement of healthcare through innovative practices and community outreach initiatives.

As a nursing student, my journey into the world of medicine is not merely a professional pursuit, but a deeply personal mission. My path has been shaped by the crucible of loss, as I lost my father, my mentor and best friend, to the relentless grasp of cancer. This experience ignited a fire within me to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others, and it is through nursing that I seek to fulfill this purpose. I come from a background where higher education was an aspiration not only for me but for my entire family. Being a first-generation college student, the pursuit of knowledge holds a special significance. It represents the culmination of dreams and sacrifices made by generations before me. It is a privilege I hold dear and a responsibility I carry with great pride. The loss of my father was a turning point in my life, a moment that pushed me to reflect on the true meaning of empathy and care. It was during his battle with illness that I witnessed the incredible impact healthcare professionals can have on individuals and their families. The nurses who cared for my father were more than medical providers; they were pillars of strength, offering comfort and support during his most vulnerable moments. Their dedication and compassion left an indelible mark on me, guiding me towards the path of nursing. Through my career in medicine, I aspire to be a compassionate advocate for those facing health challenges. I believe in a holistic approach to care, where the physical, emotional, and psychological well-being of patients are equally prioritized. I aim to forge connections with my patients, to understand their fears, hopes, and dreams. This, I believe, is the essence of true healing. Moreover, I recognize the importance of preventive healthcare in creating a healthier world. The recent global pandemic has underscored the need for robust public health measures and early intervention strategies. As a nursing student, I am committed to being part of the solution. I am eager to contribute to efforts in disease prevention, advocating for health education, and working towards a future where communities are equipped to proactively address health issues. In applying for scholarships, I seek not only financial support for my education but also an affirmation of my commitment to this noble profession. The financial burden of pursuing a degree in nursing can be daunting, especially as a single mother of two children, but it is a path that I am determined to follow. With the help of scholarships, I can focus on my studies, clinical experiences, and community involvement without the weight of financial worry. In conclusion, my nursing journey is a testament to the transformative power of loss and the determination to find purpose in the face of adversity. It is a tribute to my father's memory and the values he instilled in me. Through my career in medicine, I hope to be a source of comfort and support for those in need, knowing that in doing so, I am carrying forward the legacy of a man who believed in the power of love, service, and compassion.

Being a first-generation college student, the pursuit of higher education holds a profound significance in my journey. It represents not only personal achievement but also a testament to the sacrifices and dreams of my family. However, the impetus behind my chosen path in nursing extends beyond personal ambition. It is rooted in a fundamental belief in the importance of helping others, a conviction forged in the crucible of loss. Losing my father, my dearest friend and confidant, to cancer was a seismic event that reshaped the contours of my world. It was in those moments of pain and grief that I grasped the profound impact that compassionate care can have on those facing life-altering challenges. Witnessing the unwavering dedication and empathy of the healthcare professionals who cared for my father illuminated a path that I knew I needed to follow. To me, helping others transcends mere altruism; it is a profound act of empathy and solidarity. It means stepping into the shoes of those in need, offering a guiding hand, and being a source of strength during their darkest hours. It is about recognizing the inherent dignity and worth of every individual, and striving to alleviate their suffering in whatever capacity one can. As a first-generation college student, this journey carries with it a unique set of aspirations and responsibilities. It is a tribute to the generations before me who worked tirelessly to provide opportunities that were once beyond their reach. It is a testament to the dreams that my father had for me, dreams that now serve as a beacon of guidance and motivation. Embracing the role of a nursing student, I am acutely aware of the transformative power of education and the doors it can open. It is a privilege I do not take lightly. Through my studies, I aim not only to excel academically but to absorb every piece of knowledge that will equip me to be the best advocate and caregiver possible. This education is not just for me; it is for the patients I will have the honor of serving. Furthermore, my pursuit of nursing is a way to give back to a community that has supported me through every step of this journey. It is about becoming a resource, a pillar of strength, and a beacon of hope for those who may face similar challenges. It is a way to honor my father's memory by embodying the compassion and kindness that he exuded throughout his life. In conclusion, being a first-generation college student attending nursing school is a journey laden with significance. It is a tribute to the dreams and sacrifices of my family, and a testament to the transformative power of education. However, at its core, my nursing journey is about a fundamental belief in the importance of helping others. It is a commitment to be a source of comfort and support for those in need, and a way to honor the memory of my father, who taught me the profound impact that a caring heart can have on the lives of others.

As a nursing student, my career goals are deeply rooted in a profound desire to make a meaningful impact on the lives of individuals facing health challenges. The loss of my best friend and father was a pivotal moment that forged my path toward nursing. His battle with terminal cancer revealed to me the extraordinary impact that compassionate and skilled healthcare professionals can have on patients and their families. Through this experience, I discovered my calling to be a source of comfort, support, and healing for those in need. Choosing nursing was not a decision made lightly, but rather an undeniable calling that emerged from a devastating loss. Witnessing the unwavering dedication and compassion of the nurses who cared for my father inspired me in ways words cannot fully capture. They became beacons of hope, providing not only medical care but also a sense of solace and understanding during his most vulnerable moments. It was then that I realized the profound difference I could make by becoming a nurse. My decision to pursue nursing is also a tribute to my father's memory. He was a man of immense kindness, a gentle soul who always prioritized the well-being of others. In choosing this path, I am carrying forward his legacy of compassion and service. Every day, as I step into the classroom or clinical setting, I am reminded of his spirit and the values he instilled in me. However, my nursing journey has not been without its challenges. The loss of my father, my pillar of strength and confidant, left a void that seemed insurmountable. Grief became an intricate part of my existence, a companion that walked with me through each step of this journey. It was a hardship that demanded resilience, a test of my determination to forge ahead in the face of profound loss. Navigating grief while pursuing a demanding education in nursing requires a profound level of self-discovery and self-care. It was a process of learning to balance the weight of sorrow with the determination to succeed. Through this experience, I developed an even deeper appreciation for the importance of empathy and compassion in healthcare. It reinforced my commitment to be not only a skilled practitioner but also a source of emotional support for patients and their families. In the face of adversity, I found strength in the knowledge that my journey is not just for myself, but for all those who may find solace in the care I provide. It is a tribute to my father's memory and a testament to the enduring impact he had on my life. In conclusion, my nursing journey is a testament to the transformative power of loss and the ability to find purpose amidst hardship. My career goals are grounded in a profound desire to be a compassionate advocate for those facing health challenges, just as my father's nurses were for him. Through this path, I hope to honor his memory and make a positive impact on the lives of others, knowing that in doing so, I am carrying forward the legacy of a man who believed in the power of love and service to others.

The day my father passed away; the world shifted on its axis. In an instant, my rock, my confidant, and my best friend was gone. The loss was profound, leaving a void that seemed insurmountable. However, in the midst of my grief, I discovered an unexpected source of strength, a renewed sense of purpose, and a burning desire to fight for what truly matters to me. As I embarked on my journey as a new nursing student, the echoes of my father's words resonated within me. He had always emphasized the importance of compassion and service to others. I realized that his legacy was not solely bound to his presence, but it was embedded in the values he instilled in me. I knew that pursuing a career in nursing was not just a professional choice, but a profound way to honor his memory. Nursing, I believe, is an embodiment of the highest form of human connection. It is a profession rooted in empathy, where healing extends beyond the physical realm. As I step into this role, I am fully aware of the power that a compassionate touch, a listening ear, and a comforting presence can hold for those in need. Through every interaction, I strive to infuse my care with the essence of my father's teachings, aiming to provide solace and support to those entrusted to my care. When I was giving birth to my second child, I was a victim of domestic violence and had a restraining order against his biological donor. Due to this, I was alone for an emergency cesarean section. The nurses were fully aware of my situation and went to immeasurable lengths to keep myself and my son safe. They also showed the utmost compassion to me at this time, being that I was alone. Three days before my son’s birth, my dad was diagnosed with cancer. Exactly two months and one day later, he was gone from this world. Between being hospitalized at our local hospital, the oncology center, and finally the hospice home, every single nurse we encountered showered us with empathy and compassion, something I can only dream of doing for someone, someday. Furthermore, the loss of my father has sensitized me to the fragility of life and the significance of cherishing every moment. Amid our busy lives, it is easy to overlook the profound impact we can have on one another. Through my role as a nursing student, I am committed to being a source of strength and comfort for patients and their families, recognizing that each encounter is an opportunity to make a difference in their lives. Moreover, my father's passing has ignited a passion for advocacy within me. Witnessing his battle with illness and the challenges he faced navigating the healthcare system underscored the need for comprehensive, patient-centered care. As a nursing student, I am determined to be an advocate for those who may not have the voice or resources to navigate the complexities of the healthcare system. I am committed to working towards a future where every individual receives the holistic care and support they deserve. In the face of loss, there arises a profound clarity about what truly matters in life. The pursuit of material wealth and superficial achievements pales in comparison to the impact we can have on the lives of others. This realization has fueled my determination to fight for a healthcare system that prioritizes compassion, inclusivity, and quality of care above all else. In my academic pursuits, I am committed to excelling not for the sake of accolades, but to equip myself with the knowledge and skills necessary to be an effective advocate and caregiver. I approach each lesson and clinical experience with a sense of purpose, knowing that the education I receive will directly translate into my ability to provide exceptional care to those in need. In conclusion, the loss of my father, my guiding light and dearest friend, has been an unparalleled source of both sorrow and strength. Through the lens of grief, I have come to appreciate the profound impact that compassionate care can have on the lives of others. As I step into the role of a nursing student, I carry with me the lessons of empathy, advocacy, and the value of human connection that my father bestowed upon me. With every step of this journey, I am driven by a determination to honor his memory and fight for a future where healthcare is synonymous with compassion, inclusivity, and excellence. Through my hands, I hope to bring healing, comfort, and solace to those in need, knowing that in doing so, I am carrying forward the legacy of a man who believed in the power of love and service to others.

My name is Christina and I am a first-generation college student. My mother was one of five children, with a very sick parent. My mom got her first job at 9 years old to help support their family, so college wasn't an option. My dad was abused and neglected at just two years old and joined the Navy to get away from the awful childhood he endured. For the first few years of my life, we lived in my hometown of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. My mom worked as a pharmacy technician, which at the time didn't require a certification or degree and my dad was a superintendent at a golf course. My dad suffered from substance abuse caused by PTSD after being discharged from the Navy, and never got the help he deserved. This made things extremely difficult for my mom, as she was supporting our entire family mostly on her own when he was between binges and jobs. My father's side of the family made things miserable for us, so in May of 2004, our family moved to Florida with minimal clothing and our vehicle to escape the negativity they brought to us. Once we got to Florida, it was very difficult for my mom to find a decent-paying job due to her lack of education. Times had changed and she needed to hold a pharmacy technician certification to work the same job she previously worked for nearly 30 years. My dad was still suffering from his addiction and fell back into the same routine of on and off jobs. Growing up I didn't have the newest or coolest of things because sometimes we were barely getting by financially. Fast forward to the present, I am a mother to two beautiful babies who deserve nothing but the best. These days finding a decent-paying job without a degree is almost seemingly impossible. Being a single mother, finances aren't very plentiful, so this scholarship would help take off some of the financial burdens of continuing my education and supporting my family. I chose a career in nursing so I could help people, specifically veterans. Our veterans sacrificed so much for a country full of people they didn't even know, for the simple fact of loving their country. There is a crisis in veterans' mental health that needs to be addressed and improved. After graduating from nursing school, my ultimate goal is to be able to work at a VA hospital with veterans and their families and offer them the mental help and support they deserve. I may not be able to change the whole world's mental health, but if I can make a difference in just one person or family's life, I would feel accomplished.

Growing up my dad didn't have the best life. He went through an unfortunate amount of trauma and neglect starting at just two years old. After many failed attempts of running away, when he turned 18 he joined the United States Navy. He figured by joining he would be able to get away from the abuse he suffered as a child, and he would also never be homeless again and have a place to lay his head every night that wasn't a random park bench. If there was anything my dad loved almost as much as his family, it was serving his country. During my dad's time in the Navy, he was on the USS Sculpin which was a nuclear-powered submarine. His days consisted of mostly underwater drills only surfacing when it was time to change shifts. On the off chance his crew wasn't submerged, they spent their time assessing the different machinery, ammunition, and missiles to make sure they were performing appropriately in the unfortunate event of an attack. Although my dad loved serving his country, it came with a lot of mental and emotional burdens. He suffered from PTSD ranging from attacks to losing fellow sailors. At the time, there was a huge stigma about mental illnesses, and he couldn't get the help he needed. He tried very hard to let go of the bad memories, but he said if he forgot about the bad ones, he would have to let go of the good ones too. Due to the negative events he witnessed, my dad started using drugs and alcohol to cope. My dad was discharged before I was born, so I didn't have to experience the heartbreak of saying goodbye to him as other veteran's children did. Growing up, my dad would never run out of stories about his time in the Navy. I remember when I was a little girl he always told me "Love what you do and you'll never work a day in your life." Hearing how passionate he was about that part of his life, even if it did have a negative impact on him, truly inspired me to find a career that would give me the same feeling. Although my dad never quite got to see sobriety, he was the most hard-working and dependable person throughout any job he worked, and he credits the Navy for giving him that quality. My dad has always been my role model, and making him proud is all I want to do. Being the daughter of a veteran has shaped my career aspirations by showing me that I too, want to work in a career that is based on helping people. My dad taught me how to be disciplined, respectful, and hard-working. After graduating from nursing school, my ultimate goal is to apply to work at a VA hospital and offer the support and care that our veterans deserve. Although being in the military and nursing are two very different jobs, they are both similar in the sense of doing it for other people. Mental illnesses in veterans is a crisis that needs to be acknowledged and improved. This scholarship will help me pay for nursing school and in the end, help me help our veterans and their families because they deserve it.

Parenting: the hardest, yet most rewarding job anyone could have. While being a parent is one of the best things you could be, being a single parent can be extremely difficult and overwhelming. Being a single parent and a student seems nearly impossible. It's a constant battle of "I should be there for my child more" and "I need to stay in school so I can make a better future for myself and my child/ren." The parent guilt of not being there when your child is sick because you have school or have to study, and sheer determination of wanting that better future for your family, is a constant battle single parent students face. Some parents' mental health can even be affected by the constant thought of paying for school, working, and being a parent. The feeling of worthlessness can be detrimental to parents who want to go back to school and continue their education for a better life, but aren't able to because they can't afford it. Education is expensive, and adding on the financial needs of a child doesn't help. A lot of single parents are faced with the fear of not being able to afford higher education due to the financial needs of their children. Being a parent is a full-time job in itself, on top of working a full-time job to supply the needs of the family. Children need diapers, wipes, formula or milk, food, clothes and many other things that may not seem very expensive up front, but as a whole can add up very quickly. When you figure in housing payments and utilities, some families have nothing left over to spare. Trying to add in being a student at the same time, it seems like there isn't enough time in the day to be a parent, a student, and an employee. I currently work full-time at a veterinary emergency room and am a single mom to a four-year-old and a two-year-old. My daughter's dad has been great and has helped me with anything I need. He has kept her on "my time" if I needed to work late or pick up an extra shift, and has been understanding if I fall slightly short on my part of her tuition payment. My two-year-old was born six weeks early and has suffered developmental delays as well as unilateral deafness as a result of this. His father has never met him, and it has been extremely difficult not getting any help from him. My mom keeps him while I'm at work, and has been more lenient on letting me pick up extra shifts to help pay for school. This scholarship would help with my and my children's future because I wouldn't have to pick up so many shifts to try and pay for my tuition, in turn, I would be able to spend more time with them at home. It would also help give my mom the much-deserved break of always watching one if not both children all day, every day.

The loss of a loved one is something we all know is going to happen, yet never seem to expect. Two weeks after giving birth to my second child, I lost my father. Growing up, my dad was my best friend. I never wanted to imagine a world without him in it, although I knew one day I would have to, I just didn't expect it so soon. In 2015 my dad started having severe stomach pains, to the point he wouldn't eat or drink anything for days on end. Over the next six years, he had seen multiple doctors and had a plethora of bloodwork done, but we were told there weren't any significant findings. A few months before he passed, my dad started having severe gastric symptoms and had to go to the emergency room. They were able to get his symptoms under control and sent him home with orders to follow up with his primary doctor. At that appointment he demanded answers and told them if they couldn't provide them, to refer him somewhere that can. They referred us to a cancer center where we learned my dad had stage 4 hepatocellular carcinoma and was considered terminal. Chemotherapy and radiation were not treatment options due to pre-existing health concerns. The only option we were given was immunotherapy sessions, which would ideally give us a little more time and hopefully make him more comfortable. Two months after starting this therapy, my dad passed away at the hospice home. The loss of my father broke me. My best friend in the entire world was gone, and although I had two beautiful babies counting on me, I just couldn't find a reason to keep going. That day, I felt like my world ended. My dad loved writing poems, it was his way to express his feelings that nobody else would know about and not be able to judge him. While finding things to put together for his funeral, I found a poem he had written about me and all the great things I was going to do in my life. That day, I was given another reason to keep going. My dad's passing has inspired me to chase my dreams to make him proud and to give my children the life he dreamed of giving me. Fighting for what I want and never giving up is the best way I can think of to honor my dad.

Eating habits- some are good, some are not. While it is okay to have junk food every once in a while, good eating habits are more important than some people realize. Our bodies are only going to function as good as we take care of them, starting with what we put into them. Food provides us with key nutrients that our bodies need to thrive on a day-to-day basis. Our eating habits affect our weight, mood, as well as our overall health. I believe it is important to practice healthy eating habits because it helps prevent a multitude of chronic health issues. Diabetes, heart disease, and even some forms of cancer are just some of the long-term risks of not eating a healthy, balanced diet. A person's weight can also be affected by their eating habits. Someone who eats more sugary, high-fat foods has a higher chance of developing obesity, which in turn can lead to diabetes in the future. Someone who doesn't eat often, whether due to lack of access to food or eating disorders, can become severely malnourished and suffer long-term consequences such as vitamin and mineral deficiencies, as well as a weakened immune system. In my personal experiences, I have noticed multiple differences in my life when I have practiced healthier eating habits. While eating mostly junk food, I never quite felt full enough, which lead to eating even more. I was gaining weight more rapidly, and I noticed my skin was not as clear and healthy as it had been before. Seeing the point that I had let myself get to took a huge toll on my mental health as well. I wasn't happy with how I looked, I caked on makeup constantly to try and hide my breakouts caused by excessive grease and sugar consumption. I was not eager to go out and be around people because I wasn't happy with how I looked. My personality also changed. I was more irritable and easily annoyed, especially if a sugar craving struck. On the other hand, when I ate healthier, I felt healthier and happier. I was able to lose weight, my skin cleared and appeared more healthy, and I noticed a very large improvement in my mood. I also had a lot more energy to go and do things I was too tired to do before, and I was able to focus on tasks I needed to complete. I found myself more relaxed and easy-going, compared to always feeling on edge and irritable.

Parenting. The hardest, yet most rewarding and valuable job in the world. Every day our children are looking up to us and forming their own opinions of who they should be one day. Little girls want to be like their moms when they grow up, and little boys want to be like their dads. Most things in parenting never go as planned, but the one part of it that nobody ever expects- becoming a single parent. Shortly after I turned twenty-one, I had my first child, a daughter. I knew nothing about becoming a parent, and I don't think her dad did either. In the beginning we made it work as best we could, but ultimately it wasn't enough. I remember the day we decided to go separate ways, I felt like things would never get better and I often found myself wondering how I was going to move forward in life. I have now been a single parent for 3 years, and I have truly learned just how much children watch and listen to the things their parents say and do. Children absorb everything they see and hear like sponges, so parents need to speak and act in a way that shows their children how they are expected to speak and act. Sometimes I hear my daughter saying catchphrases that I know her dad uses, and I see her mimicking actions she has seen me do, such as using makeup brushes or organizing her room the same way mine is. No parent is perfect, and everyone is going to make mistakes from time to time. But we can all set good examples for our children. I feel I can set a good example for my children in many different ways. Self-improvement is something that will never end because I will never be perfect. I can improve as a person by thinking about and acting on things with a more relaxed, level-headed mindset, thus showing my children how to handle situations more appropriately. I hope my determination will also set a good example for them in the future. I want my children to see everything I have gone through and know that I never gave up, no matter how hard and discouraging something was, and apply that to their own life experiences when they face difficult times. I hope to set an example for my children that if they want something bad enough, they will be willing to do anything it takes to get it, and will keep trying until they finally have it.

Everyone has something about them that makes them unique. One trait I possess that I feel makes me unique is my capability of working in versatile environments. When I was fifteen years old I got my first job as an after-school teacher at a preschool, since then I have worked as a cashier, a hostess, a server, a bartender, a nurse’s aid in human medicine, then I became a mom, and for the last five years, I have been an ICU nurse and surgery technician in veterinary medicine. Every time I was preparing to change careers, I wondered how I was going to acclimate to the changes each profession presented. I have worked in fun, laid-back jobs, as well as more critical and severe, and I was able to separate between the two. I may not have been perfect and knew how to do everything I was faced with, but I didn’t let that stop me from learning and continuing to try and succeed. I do not get discouraged easily, so even on the days I didn’t quite get it right, I didn't give up. I won't allow the difficulty of a task to stand in the way of something I want. I have always put my heart and soul into everything I do because I want to be remembered as someone with a strong work ethic. I can get along with different types of people, knowing not all of them will share the same personalities or beliefs. I don’t allow my personal opinions to get in the way of how I treat someone with a differing opinion, because I feel everyone deserves respect even if they don’t agree with my thoughts or practices. In the future, I plan on giving back to my community in any way I can. I have thought a lot about what I would do, and I feel the first thing would be to support other single mothers in the position I once was in. Whether it be giving advice and resources to someone trying to find funding for school, or just being a listening, caring ear for someone who just needs to feel like they’re not alone. Another way I have thought about giving back to my community is by giving donations to programs to help others be able to afford further education and have the future everyone deserves. I feel everyone should be able to go after the future they want without finances being such a burden.