Growing up, I always heard my parents say that education was the only thing I could never be taken away from you. That memorable lesson stuck with me. My family and I moved from the Philippines to the U.S. chasing better opportunities, but we quickly learned how difficult it is to start over. We always had to make every dollar count, and sometimes I wondered if college would even be possible for me. Personally, going to college is not just about getting a degree. It is about giving my family a better future. I want to become a nurse, and eventually a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. I have seen my mother work double shifts as a medical technologist, missing holidays and special occasions, just to keep us afloat. My father, who was a physical therapist back home, took a job he could. My aunt, who is a nurse, is someone I have always admired because she never stops learning and helping others. Their sacrifices and their stories are hat push me to strive harder, even when things get tough. I have not had the chance to get a job yet because of restrictions of my visa status, but I find other ways to help. I tutor classmates who are struggling, take care of my little brother, and I am always there for friends who need support. These small acts have taught me that making a difference does always mean having a title or a paycheck; it starts with being there for people in your life. College means everything to me because it is my way to change my family’s story. I want to be able to give back to my parents the way they have always supported me. I want to be the nurse who is there for patients who feel scared or alone, especially in communities where people do not always get the care they deserve. I know what it is like to feel overlooked or to worry about bills, and I want to be someone who brings comfort to others. If I am given the chance to receive this scholarship, I am eager to learn more and to use this opportunity to the fullest. I want to set an example for my brother and for others like me who feel like the odds are stacked against them. I want to show that no matter where you start, you can keep going as long as you do not give up. I am willing to work hard, to learn, and to give back. I want to make my parents proud and use my education to make a meaningful impact for others. That is what motivates me every single day.

I chose to pursue a career in nursing because it is deeply anchored in both my desire and my family’s sacrifices to build a stable future. Growing up, I observed how hard my parents worked to provide better opportunities for our family. Their sacrifices became more challenging when we moved to the United States in 2024. I had to adapt quickly to my new environment. During this time, I am faced with immigration-related uncertainties. Being in the U.S. on an H-4 visa. This visa is under my mother’s H-1B visa, specifically given for skilled workers. Because of my immigration status, I have not been able to volunteer in hospitals or clinics the way I want to, or take jobs to gain experience. There are times when it feels unfair, and I worry about being left behind. But instead of letting that stop me, I see these challenges as opportunities for growth rather than setbacks. I find ways to help wherever I can—whether it is tutoring classmates, supporting friends who are going through tough times, or helping my younger brother at home. I have learned that kindness and empathy are not limited by official titles or hours logged; they show up in everyday behaviors. Those experiences have taught me determination, perseverance, and the significance of building a meaningful future, and to not waste any opportunities for myself and for the people I love. My parents and aunt have been my biggest inspirations and motivations. They believed in my abilities to pursue nursing. That is why, nursing, to me, is more than just a healthcare role; it is also being an independent provider for my loved ones. Their dedication helped me to strive my best and make an impact while honoring the efforts my family has continuously made for me. I realized that treating patients and having empathy for my family deepens my perspective of hard work. However, nursing is not just about science for me—it is about giving back. My parents have worked so hard, sacrificing time and energy, sometimes missing birthdays or holidays, just so our family could have a better life. I want to be able to repay them and show them that their sacrifices were worth it. I know that nursing is a stable career and is always in demand, but what matters most to me is the opportunity to make an impact, even in the smallest ways possible. Adjusting to a new beginning of my life in the United States, I have learned to adapt to new situations and how to slowly navigate challenges, even though it is difficult. These moments have strengthened my traits that are crucial for nursing, including kindness, resilience, and patience. It has also strengthened my faith that tough obstacles can become stepping stones to growth and motivation. My ultimate goal is to become a Registered Nurse in the future. I am eager to learn and gain experience, whether making critical decisions, caring for patients, or simply being there for them when they need it the most. I am hopeful to continue my education and become a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. I am excited to collect other certifications and get my master's as I advance in my chosen career. Aside from nursing, I am an artist with a creative mindset. I enjoy journaling, singing, baking, and playing guitar. These activities helped me balance college and personal life through time management, dealing with stress, and staying connected with myself. I value quality time with my family and friends because they are my support system. These moments have helped me overcome challenges with compassion. These actions guided me every day and every moment with kindness, resilience, and empathy. I hope to bring these qualities into my future career and use them to provide care for patients who come from different places. I want to prove myself—and to everyone who has believed in me—that I can do this. Whatever I set my mind to, I will work for it. I want to be the nurse who is remembered for being there, for listening, for caring, and for making sure no one feels alone when they are scared or hurting. I want to be a source of strength and comfort for my patients, and a source of pride for my family. Even though the hours can be unpredictable and the work will be tough, I know this is my calling. Nursing, to me, is the combination of science and compassion. I am eager for the challenges ahead.

Ever since I was five, I have always been drawn to science. I remember being a toddler who asked my parents questions about how the body works or why people get sick, I would always be fascinated by their answers. However, I would immediately get upset when someone loses their life because of unfortunate circumstances. Both of my parents work in the medical field—my mom as a medical technologist and my dad as a physical therapist—so I grew up hearing about hospital shifts, patient stories, and the realities of healthcare around our dinner table. My aunt is a nurse who seems to have endless degrees after her name, and I have always admired how she juggles so much responsibility with hospitality, pride, and confidence. Seeing her graduate with her DNP recently, the highest nursing leadership degree, showed me just how far hard work and dedication can take someone. My interest in STEM, especially nursing, comes from wanting to do something meaningful with my life. I love learning about science and applying what I know, but what truly excites me is the chance to utilize that knowledge to help people. I want to be the person who is there for someone on their worst day, whether it is an urgent emergency treatment or just a time when they need comfort. My dream is to become a Registered Nurse, and eventually specialize as a Certified Registered Anesthetist. I am already planning to work toward my master’s and keep collecting new certifications because I believe there is always a meaningful impact in this pathway. However, nursing is not just about science for me—it is about giving back. My parents have worked so hard, sacrificing time and energy, sometimes missing birthdays or holidays, just so our family could have a better life. I want to be able to repay them and show them that their sacrifices were worth it. I know that nursing is a stable career and is always in demand, but what matters most to me is the opportunity to make an impact, even in the smallest ways possible. One of the hardest challenges I have faced is being in the U.S. on an H-4 visa. This visa is under my mother’s H-1B visa, specifically given for skilled workers. Because of my immigration status, I have not been able to volunteer in hospitals or clinics the way I want to, or take jobs to gain experience. There are times when it feels unfair, and I worry about being left behind. But instead of letting that stop me, I see these challenges as opportunities for growth rather than setbacks. I find ways to help wherever I can—whether it is tutoring classmates, supporting friends who are going through tough times, or helping my younger brother at home. I have learned that kindness and empathy are not limited by official titles or hours logged; they show up in everyday behaviors. I want to prove myself—and to everyone who has believed in me—that I can do this. Whatever I set my mind to, I will work for it. I want to be the nurse who is remembered for being there, for listening, for caring, and for making sure no one feels alone when they are scared or hurting. I want to be a source of strength and comfort for my patients, and a source of pride for my family. Even though the hours can be unpredictable and the work will be tough, I know this is my calling. Nursing, to me, is the combination of science, and compassion. I am eager for the challenges ahead.

Ever since I was five, the medical field has been a constant presence in my life. Growing up, my parents instilled in me the importance of pursuing a career in healthcare. Even as a toddler, they would tell me stories about how being a doctor or a nurse would always be in demand, and how these roles meant making a real difference in people’s lives. Specifically, my mom and my aunt, both dedicated healthcare workers, set the perfect example for me. Watching my mom work night shifts as a medical technologist—sometimes missing holidays or birthdays—showed me what real sacrifice and commitment looks like. Even when she missed special occasions, she always made up for it by cherishing the time she could spend with us. My aunt did the same; working tirelessly to provide for her family, and care for her patients. My dad’s encouragement has also shaped who I am. He has always believed in me to reach my dreams, especially after our move to the United States. Even though he was a physical therapist, his hard work and support have been just as important to my journey. From a young age, I wanted to do something in healthcare—anything that involved helping others. I imagined myself as a nurse or doctor, using my own skills to make a difference whether it was in a hospital, a clinic, or even just at home if someone in my family was sick. My interest in science and medical terminology grew as I got older. I love learning about how the human body works and how medical professionals use their knowledge to treat patients. For me, it is not just about memorizing definitions or passing exams, but applying real-life learnings to help people. Though I know nursing is always in demand and can provide long-term stability, for me, it is about so much more than a job. I want to be just like the nurses I admired in my childhood. Whether I am offering comfort during a tough time or making a critical decision, I want to utilize my compassion to help people in big and small ways. Because of my H-4 visa restrictions, I have not been able to show my dedication through official volunteer hours yet, since I cannot legally work until my family’s green card is approved. Still, I make up for it around campus and at home. I help classmates who are struggling, offer support to friends and take care of my younger brother. These everyday moments let my empathy and hospitality. One thing I truly believe about myself is that I can accomplish anything I set my mind to. I am willing to do the work, to prove to myself and to others that I am capable. I want to show my parents that their sacrifices were worth it, and I hope to give back to them someday, making them proud and happy. Their belief in me sparked my determination and perseverance to succeed. My dream is to become a nurse, and eventually a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. I want to keep learning, keep growing, and always find ways to help. I want to honor my mom and my aunt by using my knowledge to support my family financially and make a real impact in the lives of others. Through nursing, I know I can build a better future for myself and my family while giving hope and care to those who need it the most. I found this scholarship through Bold.org, a scholarship website.

What inspired you to pursue a career in the medical field? 400-600 word essay Ever since I remember, the medical field has been a constant presence in my life. Growing up, my parents instilled in me the importance of pursuing a career in healthcare. Even as a toddler, they would tell me stories about how being a doctor or a nurse would always be in demand, and how these roles meant making a real difference in people’s lives. Specifically, my mom and my aunt, both dedicated healthcare workers, set the perfect example for me. Watching my mom work night shifts as a medical technologist—sometimes missing holidays or birthdays—showed me what real sacrifice and commitment looks like. Even when she missed special occasions, she always made up for it by cherishing the moment she could spend with us. My aunt did the same; working tirelessly to provide for her family, and care for her patients. My dad’s encouragement has also shaped who I am. He has always believed in me and encouraged me to reach my dreams, especially after our move to the United States. Even though he was a physical therapist, his hard work and support have been just as important to my journey. From a young age, I wanted to do something in healthcare—anything that involved helping others. I imagined myself as a nurse or doctor, using my own skills to make a difference whether it was in a hospital, a clinic, or even just at home if someone in my family was sick. My interest in science and medical terminology grew as I graduated high school. I love learning about how the human body works and how medical professionals use their knowledge to diagnose and treat patients. For me, it is not just about memorizing definitions or passing exams, but applying real-life learnings to help people. Though I know nursing is always in demand and can provide long-term stability, for me, it is about so much more than a job. I want to be just like the nurses I admired in my childhood. Whether I am offering comfort during a tough time or making a critical decision, I want to utilize my compassion to help people in big and small ways. Because of my H-4 visa restrictions, I have not been able to show my dedication through official volunteer hours yet, since I cannot legally work until my family’s green card is approved. Still, I make up for it around campus and at home. I help classmates who are struggling, offer support to friends and take care of my younger brother. These everyday moments allow me to show my empathy and hospitality. One thing I truly believe about myself is that I can accomplish anything I set my mind to. I am willing to do the work, to prove to myself and to others that I am capable. I want to show my parents that their sacrifices were worth it, and I hope to give back to them someday, making them proud and happy. Their belief in me sparked my determination and perseverance to succeed. My dream is to become a nurse, and eventually a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. I want to keep learning, keep growing, and always find ways to help. I want to honor my parents and my aunt by using my knowledge to support my family financially and make a real impact in the lives of others. Through nursing, I know I can build a better future for myself and my family while giving hope and care to those who need it the most.

The first time I stepped onto my college campus in Nevada, Missouri, a wave of nervous excitement hit me. As a woman who had just moved from the Philippines, I felt the weight of starting from scratch. Everything was unfamiliar—the language, the culture, and the way people spoke. But underneath the uncertainty, there was a spark of determination. I knew, deep down, I was here to become a nurse. And like Maggie Kwiecien, who forged her own path in a new state, I refused to let fear or circumstance define me. My calling to nursing started long before I boarded a plane to America. In the Philippines, I saw firsthand how access to healthcare—and a compassionate nurse—could change lives. I remember visiting relatives in local hospitals, watching overworked nurses care for patients with a kind of gentle efficiency. I wanted to be that steady, reassuring presence of others. Moving to the U.S. put that dream within reach, but it also meant starting over with a mountain of challenges. Navigating the American education system, especially on an H-4 visa, which is a visa under my mother’s H-1B skilled worker visa, is not easy. I cannot work yet, due to restrictions and limitations, so gaining hands-on experience outside school is off the table for now. Instead, I channel my energy into my classes. Right now, I am taking three summer courses—anatomy, physiology, and psychology—so I can strengthen my foundation before applying to the RN program this fall. Every late night spent reviewing notes or practicing skills in the lab is driven by the vision of myself one day, caring for patients, making critical decisions, and being a lifeline during someone’s hardest moments. But my journey is about more than just academics. Like Maggie, I value growth outside the classroom. I volunteer at the local community center, where I have learned to listen without judgement, to respect everyone’s story, and to find dignity in the smallest acts of kindness. These experiences have taught me empathy and resilience—qualities that are just as important as medical knowledge in nursing. At home, I take care of my younger brother and support my family however I can. These responsibilities have made me more mature, responsible, and grateful for every opportunity. Even though my path is filled with barriers—visa restrictions, financial uncertainty, and the loneliness of being far from home—I am learning to see things not as obstacles, but as fuel to continue my journey. I remind myself that every challenge I overcome will make me a better nurse: more adaptable, more understanding, more driven to advocate fro my patients, especially those who feel unseen or unheard. I also hold tight to my creative side. Singing, drawing, painting, and playing guitar help me process my emotions and stay connected to who I am. Like Maggie, I believe in living life fully and bringing all parts of myself to everything I do. What inspired me most about Maggie is her relentless pursuit of expertise and her courage to be bold, both intellectually and physically. I strive to embody that same spirit she carries in my nursing pathway and always push myself to do more. I dream of earning my RN, then advancing to become a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist, and I want to extend my ambition and go further with a master’s or doctorate. My ultimate goal is not just to succeed for myself, but to give back to my family, my community, and to every patient who needs someone in their corner. Receiving this scholarship will be a huge blessing for my education and career.

Helping individuals who are struggling with addiction is deeply crucial to me, not only because of what I have learned in my classes, but also because I have seen the effects of addiction are linked though lives and communities. In high school, addiction is a topic we often discuss in psychology, and each lesson reminds me that this is not just an individual problem, it is a sensitive, complex, challenge that affects how people think, how their body perceives them, how relationships are affected, and even an individual’s opportunities. One thing that I have learned is that addiction is tied to mental health. It connects to stress, trauma, and behaviors that add pressure to life. The long-term effects of this can change the way people feel, think, and make decisions, often leading to a cycle that is hard to stop. The more I study psychology and health sciences, the more I want to utilize this knowledge to help others. I want to be the person who notices the signs and reaches out, rather than someone who ignores, or judges. My goal is not to pity those who are affected or tempted by addiction, but to demonstrate true support and guidance. I believe the first step is to listen and hear their stories. Most often, people dealing with addiction feel misunderstood and alone. By listening to their feelings and stories without judgement, I can help them feel seen and valued without pity, not just patients. I believe that empathy is one of the important things a nurse can offer. It is not about feeling sorry for someone, but about being present, helping them, and offering guidance to navigate a path forward. Through my future career in nursing, I want to put these facts into action. The RN program I am working so hard to get into will give me even more tools to help people struggling with addiction. I want to use what I am learning in psychology to recognize early warning signs, understand the root causes, and work with patients to explore solutions that benefit their lives. Whether that means encouraging them with counseling, or simply offering encouragement during a difficult time. Overall, I want to be someone who not only wants to make a difference but also be there for them during their lows. In addition to that, helping others through this pathway, allows me to grow in my own ways. Working with people affected by addiction will teach me resilience, compassion, and the significance of looking beyond surface level signs and symptoms. It will challenge me to be creative and patient and to allow me to keep learning about the best methods to support healing. I know that addiction is a tough process, and there is no one solution for this, but I am committed to learning as much as I can and doing everything possible to help. Altogether, I believe that everyone deserves a chance to heal. It is not about the big grand gesture; it is about the small acts of kindness. I hope to use my education and my resilience to help people overcome addiction, make right decisions, and build better futures for themselves. This is not just a career goal for me–I believe it is a calling, and I am eager to dedicate my life to show an impact to the world.

There are mornings when I wake up craving a peach-nectarine flavored Redbull. Despite my parents’ consistent disapproval of starting my day with sugar and caffeine, it can be difficult to resist, especially when I am facing a long day ahead. Similarly, after a challenging week, the thought of Doritos Cool Ranch and a cold Diet Coke can feel like an irresistible reward. These moments of temptation are true, and I know I am not alone in experiencing them. Realizing that healthy choices are not always easy or obvious is a crucial step in improving a well-balanced nutrition and overall health. Everyone, particularly students, face temptations, which is disappointing to expect perfection, including myself. Instead of pretending to have all the right answers, I believe sharing my own observations will make an impact on others. Although demonstrating healthier habits result in profound ways, understanding that their decisions builds trust and shows that I understand their experiences. My solution is anchored in commitment, empathy, and transparency to understand patients where they are. As I move forward in my nursing career, I plan to utilize meaningful changes instead of immediate transformations. From personal experience, simple methods—such as choosing water with lemon or a drink with added electrolytes over an energy drink—are often more healthier than attempting to completely eliminate familiar foods. Keeping sustainable options available, like fresh fruit juice or yogurt, makes it easier to choose nutritious snacks over less healthy alternatives. Over time, these small decisions can lead to noticeable results in skin barrier protection, increased energy levels, and overall well-being. I want to help my patients see that every positive choice is linked to future decisions, no matter how small it may seem, is a powerful step toward better health. Personally, education will play a huge role in my nursing career. My goal is to learn and understand complex nutrition into a relatable form of reminder that benefits people’s daily lives. Whether I am advising a high school student or helping a busy parent to find healthier snacks, I will offer guidance to educate realistic preferences. By listening to each person’s unique circumstances and helping set goals, I hope to create meaningful change that both feels worth it and guilt-free. Ultimately, having healthy food options is not just about solving inadequate or poor food choices, but it is about creating healthier options in the long run. The habits we utilize now shape our health and even develop the kind of healthcare workers that we become. With empathy, communication, and with my own journey, I want steady progress rather than perfection to inspire those I care for to take their own decisions toward better nutrition. I am committed to help support my future patients by spreading positivity and growth in every decision.