My name is Dayani James, and I am a senior Health Science major at Lincoln University of Pennsylvania with a 3.5 GPA. I am committed to academic excellence and making a meaningful impact in the medical field. As a Black woman, I deeply understand the importance of representation and diversity in healthcare. I aspire to serve in communities that need compassionate, dedicated healthcare professionals, and my degree in Health Science is a key step toward fulfilling that mission. This field offers a comprehensive understanding of the human body, disease, and healing knowledge I hope to use to relieve suffering and promote health equity.In addition to my academic pursuits, I am the Vice President of the organization, Big Sister, Little Sister, which has allowed me to build strong bonds with like-minded women, fostering a community of support, empowerment, and mutual growth. Growing up as the child of a teen parent has greatly influenced my career aspirations. Raised in a single-parent household, I witnessed firsthand the sacrifices my mother made and the challenges she overcame to care for my brother and me. Her strength and dedication not only inspired my drive but also instilled in me a strong sense of empathy and purpose. Watching her as a healthcare worker made me realize the life-changing impact that access to compassionate care can have. A visit to her workplace once opened my eyes to the deep relationships healthcare providers build with patients and how important their presence is in vulnerable moments. These personal experiences have also made me acutely aware of the disparities within our healthcare system. Growing up, I often had to share or go without, which helped me understand how factors like socioeconomic status can affect access to medical care and overall well-being. With this awareness, I am motivated to pursue a career that helps close these gaps. Whether through direct patient care, public health research, or healthcare policy advocacy, I am committed to contributing to a more equitable system, one where everyone, regardless of background, has the opportunity to live a full and healthy life. Being a first-generation college student adds another layer of purpose to my journey. I aim to set an example for my siblings and others from similar backgrounds by showing that success is possible through hard work, resilience, and education. My pursuit of a college degree is both a personal milestone and a way to honor the sacrifices my mother made. It also represents my dedication to creating a future where underserved communities are heard, respected, and cared for. The thought of being at the forefront of medical discoveries and having a direct impact on people's lives drives me every day. While my mother and I have worked hard to fund my education, the financial burden is still a significant challenge. Receiving a scholarship would relieve that pressure and allow me to focus fully on my academic and professional goals. I am determined to use my education to continue my commitment to service, inclusion, and social change during college and beyond. I believe everyone deserves the chance to thrive, and I am dedicated to helping make that vision a reality.

Growing up with four siblings, I was always the go-to babysitter, which meant sometimes I became the nurse. At the age of 12, instead of playing outside, I was helping my mom change my younger brother's diaper. My mother taught me the importance of helping others and why it is beneficial to them. When my family asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up, I always said I had no idea, but I wanted to work in a field where I would be able to help others. After taking care of my siblings when they were babies, it made me realize that I could do well in pediatrics, and as I did more research about the field, I came across the Neonatal intensive care unit, which caught my eye even more. With all the experience I have, from bathing and cleaning to hospitality, I believe that this might be the perfect fit for me. My mother also worked in a hospital, which made me notice nurses more. I watched the way they interacted with patients and was impressed by the compassion they showed toward them. Although my mom was not a nurse, she always had good things to say about nurses. She would tell me that nurses are consistently advocating for patients and are great role models for not just kids but also for their co-workers. I believe that nurses can teach and change a person's life. At this point, there was still a lot that I was not aware of regarding neonatal nurses. When I got to high school, I told my counselor that I wanted to be a Registered Nurse, and he talked to me about a friend he knew who was a nurse. This woman made me consider researching the field in depth, not just the salary or main job responsibilities. She wanted me to look into what this career meant to me long term. After watching countless YouTube videos and reading online resources about Nursing, I learned that the Nursing field is extremely diverse and that you have to be dedicated and patient to be an excellent nurse. It is important to me that I am invested in my patient's recovery and that they know they are taken care of and in good hands. During the pandemic, seeing how essential workers were needed and showed up for patients in need affirmed my place in this field. Seeing the sacrifices nurses made to help others survive and recover inspired me to want to do the same. Nurses play a vital role in the health care system, and they are often the first line of defense for patients. I want to be a part of that, and I believe that nursing is the perfect way to do that. Being in the neonatal intensive care unit means that I will be one of the first people a baby will see when they come into this world, which is the reward I want to receive every day.

Growing up with four siblings, I was always the go-to babysitter, which meant I also became the caretaker. At the age of 12, instead of playing outside, I was helping my mom change my younger brother's diapers. My mother taught me the importance of helping others and why it is beneficial to them. When my family asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up, I always said I had no idea. But I knew I wanted to work in a field where I would be able to serve others. After taking care of my siblings when they were babies, I wanted to pursue a career in pediatrics. As I did more research about the field, I came across the Neonatal intensive care unit, which caught my eye even more. With all the experience I have, from bathing and cleaning to hospitality with toddlers, I believe that this field may be the perfect fit for me. My mother also worked in a hospital which made me notice nurses more. Sometimes on Fridays, she would bring me with her whenever the hospital wasn't too busy. She was a phlebotomist, which meant she was in the lab on the third floor, and I would be sitting in the corner of the room, watching and observing everything that was going on. When she had to pick up samples and take them to the labor and delivery floor, she would bring me with her. I could hear the monitors of heartbeats beating and I watched how the nurses interacted with their patients. I was impressed by their compassion towards them. Although my mom was not a nurse she always had good things to say about nurses. She would tell me that nurses are consistently advocating for patients and are great role models for not just kids but for their co-workers. I believe that nurses have the ability to teach and change a person's life. It is important to me that I am involved in my patients' recovery because I am invested in their well being. I want my parents to know that they are being taken care of and in good hands. Taking care of my siblings when I was younger and not being able to do anything else unless they were cared for, motivates me to want to give my patients the same care once I am a nurse. During the pandemic, our nation got to see how essential workers were needed and showed up for patients in need. Noticing this affirmed my place in this field. Seeing the sacrifices nurses made to help others survive and recover inspired me to want to do the same. Nurses play a vital role in the health care system and they are often the first line of defense for patients. I want to be a part of that and I believe that nursing is the perfect way to do that. Being in the neonatal intensive care unit means that I will be one of the first people a baby will see when they come into this world. This is a moving experience that would be an honor to be apart of every day.

As a Black woman, I understand the importance of representation and diversity in healthcare. I am currently pursuing a health science degree at Lincoln University, with the intent of going to nursing school. Growing up, I’ve witnessed the sacrifices my mother made and the challenges she overcame to care for our family. Her strength and dedication not only inspired my drive but also instilled in me a strong sense of empathy and purpose. Watching her as a healthcare worker made me realize the life-changing impact that access to compassionate care can have. By becoming a nurse, I believe I will make a meaningful contribution to society by helping Black people feel more comfortable in the world. To me, being Black represents perseverance, culture, and a tradition of success over hardship. Attending an HBCU is more than just getting a degree; it's about carrying on an empowerment legacy and developing the next generation of leaders. Being a first-generation college student adds another layer of purpose to my journey. I aim to set an example for my siblings and others from similar backgrounds by showing that success is possible through hard work, resilience, and education. My pursuit of a college degree is both a personal milestone and a way to honor the sacrifices my mother made.

This scholarship will help me to fulfill my dreams of pursuing a career in the medical field because as I grew up, I was able to witness the firsthand struggles and sacrifices my mother faced to provide for my brother and me. My desire to pursue a healthcare career is mainly because of my mother. Seeing the impact that she leaves on her patients, and their families is something that I strive to go through. I will use these scholarship funds for my college tuition and other course fees. As a Health Science major I have to take lab courses, but I struggle to pay for the fees that go along with the course. This scholarship will allow me to focus more on my academic and career goals in healthcare without the burden of financial stress.

My name is Dayani James, and I am a sophomore Health Science major at Lincoln University of Pennsylvania with a 3.3 GPA. I am committed to academic excellence and making a meaningful impact in the medical field. As a Black woman, I deeply understand the importance of representation and diversity in healthcare. I aspire to serve in communities that need compassionate, dedicated healthcare professionals, and my degree in Health Science is a key step toward fulfilling that mission. This field offers a comprehensive understanding of the human body, disease, and healing knowledge I hope to use to relieve suffering and promote health equity. In addition to my academic pursuits, I hold several leadership and service roles on campus. I serve as an Intern for the Student Government Association, an administrative representative for the Lincoln University Call Center, and an advocate for the Big Sister, Little Sister program. Through Big Sister, Little Sister, I’ve been able to build strong bonds with like-minded women, fostering a community of support, empowerment, and mutual growth. My work at the Lion Link Call Center has sharpened my communication and leadership skills tools that will serve me well in both healthcare and community engagement. Growing up as the child of a teen parent has greatly influenced my career aspirations. Raised in a single-parent household, I witnessed firsthand the sacrifices my mother made and the challenges she overcame to care for my brother and me. Her strength and dedication not only inspired my drive but also instilled in me a strong sense of empathy and purpose. Watching her as a healthcare worker made me realize the life-changing impact that access to compassionate care can have. A visit to her workplace once opened my eyes to the deep relationships healthcare providers build with patients and how important their presence is in vulnerable moments. These personal experiences have also made me acutely aware of the disparities within our healthcare system. Growing up, I often had to share or go without, which helped me understand how factors like socioeconomic status can affect access to medical care and overall well-being. With this awareness, I am motivated to pursue a career that helps close these gaps. Whether through direct patient care, public health research, or healthcare policy advocacy, I am committed to contributing to a more equitable system, one where everyone, regardless of background, has the opportunity to live a full and healthy life. Being a first-generation college student adds another layer of purpose to my journey. I aim to set an example for my siblings and others from similar backgrounds by showing that success is possible through hard work, resilience, and education. My pursuit of a college degree is both a personal milestone and a way to honor the sacrifices my mother made. It also represents my dedication to creating a future where underserved communities are heard, respected, and cared for. The thought of being at the forefront of medical discoveries and having a direct impact on people's lives drives me every day. While my mother and I have worked hard to fund my education, the financial burden is still a significant challenge. Receiving a scholarship would relieve that pressure and allow me to focus fully on my academic and professional goals. I am determined to use my education to continue my commitment to service, inclusion, and social change during college and beyond. I believe everyone deserves the chance to thrive, and I am dedicated to helping make that vision a reality.

My name is Dayani James, and I am a sophomore Health Science major at Lincoln University of Pennsylvania with a 3.3 GPA. I am committed to academic excellence and making a meaningful impact in the medical field. As a Black woman, I deeply understand the importance of representation and diversity in healthcare. I aspire to serve in communities that need compassionate, dedicated healthcare professionals, and my degree in Health Science is a key step toward fulfilling that mission. This field offers a comprehensive understanding of the human body, disease, and healing knowledge I hope to use to relieve suffering and promote health equity. In addition to my academic pursuits, I hold several leadership and service roles on campus. I serve as an Intern for the Student Government Association, an administrative representative for the Lincoln University Call Center, and an advocate for the Big Sister, Little Sister program. Through Big Sister, Little Sister, I’ve been able to build strong bonds with like-minded women, fostering a community of support, empowerment, and mutual growth. My work at the Lion Link Call Center has sharpened my communication and leadership skills tools that will serve me well in both healthcare and community engagement. Growing up as the child of a teen parent has greatly influenced my career aspirations. Raised in a single-parent household, I witnessed firsthand the sacrifices my mother made and the challenges she overcame to care for my brother and me. Her strength and dedication not only inspired my drive but also instilled in me a strong sense of empathy and purpose. Watching her as a healthcare worker made me realize the life-changing impact that access to compassionate care can have. A visit to her workplace once opened my eyes to the deep relationships healthcare providers build with patients and how important their presence is in vulnerable moments. These personal experiences have also made me acutely aware of the disparities within our healthcare system. Growing up, I often had to share or go without, which helped me understand how factors like socioeconomic status can affect access to medical care and overall well-being. With this awareness, I am motivated to pursue a career that helps close these gaps. Whether through direct patient care, public health research, or healthcare policy advocacy, I am committed to contributing to a more equitable system, one where everyone, regardless of background, has the opportunity to live a full and healthy life. Being a first-generation college student adds another layer of purpose to my journey. I aim to set an example for my siblings and others from similar backgrounds by showing that success is possible through hard work, resilience, and education. My pursuit of a college degree is both a personal milestone and a way to honor the sacrifices my mother made. It also represents my dedication to creating a future where underserved communities are heard, respected, and cared for. The thought of being at the forefront of medical discoveries and having a direct impact on people's lives drives me every day. While my mother and I have worked hard to fund my education, the financial burden is still a significant challenge. Receiving a scholarship would relieve that pressure and allow me to focus fully on my academic and professional goals. I am determined to use my education to continue my commitment to service, inclusion, and social change during college and beyond. I believe everyone deserves the chance to thrive, and I am dedicated to helping make that vision a reality.

Growing up in a single-parent household, where my mother faced the responsibilities of parenthood at a young age, exposed me to the psychological challenges that come with such circumstances. This experience instilled in me a profound sense of empathy and a commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of others, particularly those in similar situations. Witnessing firsthand the struggles and sacrifices my mother endured to provide for my brother and I highlighted the importance of mental resilience and support. My mother's perseverance in the face of adversity showed me that mental health is as crucial as physical health. Her ability to maintain a positive outlook, despite the challenges, taught me the value of mental strength and the necessity of addressing mental health issues openly and compassionately. These experiences have profoundly influenced my beliefs. I believe that mental health should be a priority in healthcare, not an afterthought. Mental well-being is fundamental to overall health, and addressing mental health issues should be integrated into all aspects of medical care. This belief has driven my desire to pursue a career in the medical field, where I can advocate for comprehensive care that includes mental health support. My career aspirations have been directly shaped by these experiences. I aim to work in healthcare, not only to provide medical treatment but also to advocate for the importance of mental health. My goal is to ensure that everyone, regardless of their background, has access to empathetic and high-quality care. I have seen how access to quality healthcare can transform lives, and I want to be part of that change. My ambition is to work in underprivileged areas where access to healthcare, particularly mental health services, is often inadequate. Pursuing a health science degree is a step toward achieving this goal. Health science offers a comprehensive approach to understanding the human body, its illnesses, and how to relieve suffering. This field combines my passion for learning with my desire to serve my community. With this degree, I hope to contribute meaningfully to healthcare, focusing on mental health as a critical component of overall well-being. The idea of being at the forefront of medical discoveries and having a direct impact on people's lives inspires me greatly. Financial support through scholarships is crucial in helping me achieve these aspirations. Despite my mother's and my efforts to save for my education, the financial burden remains significant. Scholarships will allow me to focus on my studies without worrying about financial strain. As a first-generation college student, I am determined to make my family proud and to pave the way for others in similar situations. Attending Lincoln University as a rising college sophomore majoring in Health Science, I am committed to excelling in my studies and contributing positively to the medical field. As a Black woman, I understand the importance of representation and diversity in healthcare. I aim to work in communities that need compassionate and dedicated healthcare professionals. In conclusion, my experiences with mental health, shaped by my upbringing and the challenges my family faced, have deeply influenced my beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations. I am committed to making a difference in the healthcare field by advocating for comprehensive care that includes mental health support. This scholarship will play a crucial role in helping me achieve these goals by supporting my education and reducing financial strain. Thank you for considering my application. Your support will help me make a lasting impact in the medical field and bring positive change to my community.

Growing up I always knew I would have a healthcare career and so did my parents. As the first born growing up with four siblings, I was a big sister, a cook, a doctor, and a maid. The idea of helping my siblings influenced my wanting to help others and made me realize the importance it can have on individuals each day. I thought about becoming a doctor but then realized how long I would have to be in school and how much money it would cost my family and me. Not only would I be a first-generation college student, but I also knew that my family could not afford how much medical school would cost. Once I got to college I became aware of the many other healthcare careers and began to think about which ones I was interested in. Searching for careers made me realize that I wanted to help patients, but from behind the scenes. I found myself now wanting to own a hospital. This dream of mine is important to me because I want to create an environment where not only everyone is welcomed, but where I can help people live longer, healthier lives and prevent illness before it begins. Many hospitals are often busy and focus on caring for patients after they’ve been diagnosed. I believe that to decrease the number of people dying or becoming sick, we as individuals need to focus on proactive care. In the future when I own my hospital, I look to improve individual health outcomes while also strengthening public health as a whole. I want my hospital to not only be a way of treatment for people but also a way that individuals can be educated. By incorporating things like outreach programs and preventative screenings people have the opportunity to treat things before it becomes a bigger issue. In my community, growing up I became aware of the many things Black people faced and I realized that many chronic illnesses affected those around me. By noticing this I became passionate about wanting to change the fact that people in underserved communities didn’t have the resources necessary to maintain their health. I believe that communities that are majority Black often face barriers to receiving the care they need, whether it be due to cost, geographic location, or mistrust of the healthcare system. A goal of mine is to change this. I want to provide services beyond medical care and create an environment where all patients feel seen, heard, and valued. By hiring diverse medical staff, implementing policies that promote inclusivity, and ensuring equitable treatment, I can create trust within the community. My decision to pursue a healthcare career and own a hospital is driven by my wanting to be a role model and someone to which my family can look up to. I believe that they have inspired me by allowing me to achieve my goals and by accomplishing them I know I will make them proud. By focusing on illness prevention, addressing social determinants of health, and promoting diversity, I believe I have the opportunity to transform communities that are just like the one I grew up in.

I chose to attend an HBCU because after attending a PWI for the majority of my life, I started to notice the systemic challenges that Black people around me faced and the lack of Black community that was at my school. Even though there was a small amount of blacks, I assumed that would bring us closer to developing relationships with one another. Still, I quickly realized that we were very disconnected from one another. Making sure I attended an HBCU for my higher education was important to me because I wanted to develop these broken bonds, and be in an environment where I feel safe and connected to those who look like me. After I graduate I plan to make a significant contribution to healthcare, particularly in poor areas where access and quality are frequently inadequate. I feel that by going to my HBCU, Lincoln University, I am gaining the skills necessary to thrive intellectually, culturally, and socially.

My great-grandmother's garden was her safe haven. Whenever I would go to her house, she would ask me If I wanted to help her in the garden. I was reluctant at first but thought of the fact that she was getting older and it was an opportunity to bond with her and build beautiful memories. Ever since then, I helped her with potting, pruning the leaves, and watering the plants. It was the fifth of April and I went to her house fully expecting that we would go outside and garden, but instead, she broke the heartbreaking news. She had been diagnosed with cancer. Our family was in shock and couldn't believe how she could be sick when she seemed so “normal.” We knew she was hurting, but she put on a happy face for us. This made me realize that I would need to tend to her garden on my own so I could experience its beauty. The cancer began to worsen and she needed an at-home nurse. She couldn’t walk and needed more assistance around the house, but that didn't stop her from finding peace in the garden. Every Tuesday, her nurse and I would push her wheelchair into the garden and my great-grandmother would guide me through the gardening calendar for the year. She told me that she couldn't wait for the pansies to bloom in June, even when they had barely sprouted. I cherished those Tuesdays, the feeling of the sun shining on my face, the plants' beautiful smell in the air, and my great-grandmother’s hands guiding mine through the soil. Getting to see the beautiful flowers blossom across my great-grandmother's yard felt like a gift. Even after she passed, I felt as though she was still there with me as I gardened. It made me proud to know that I could keep her memory alive through her garden and that in her last moments, she knew that her garden was going to be taken care of. Those Tuesday afternoons taught me to cherish time with people I love and how to take care of the things I care about, no matter the circumstances. I am currently pursuing a health science degree at Lincoln University with the aim of caring for elderly people. I feel a personal connection to this field since it reminds me of my grandmother and enables me to relate to the elderly residents at the nursing home where I work. By working in this profession, I am making a meaningful contribution to society by helping Black people feel more comfortable in the world. I am confident that achieving my goal of becoming a nurse will have a lasting impact on my life.

Being the child of a teen parent has significantly influenced my career aspirations, particularly in the medical field. Growing up in a single-parent household, where my mother experienced the responsibilities of parenthood at a young age, instilled in me a strong sense of empathy and a resolve to make a difference in people's lives, especially those in similar situations. I believe that by pursuing a career in medicine, I will be able to make a positive impact on the lives of others. As I grew up, I witnessed firsthand the struggles and sacrifices my mother faced to provide for my brother and me. My desire to pursue a healthcare career is mainly because of my mother. Seeing the impact she has on her patients and their families is something I strive to experience. Once, when I went to work with her, I saw how access to quality healthcare can change lives. This upbringing inspired my ambition to work in the medical industry because I am passionate about ensuring that everyone, regardless of background, has access to empathetic and high-quality care. I want to pursue a health science degree because it combines two of my passions: learning and serving my community. Health science takes a comprehensive approach to understanding the human body, its illnesses, and how to relieve suffering. With this degree, I hope to make a meaningful contribution to healthcare, particularly in underprivileged areas where access and quality are often inadequate. The idea of being at the forefront of medical discoveries and having a direct impact on people's lives inspires me greatly. This scholarship will help me pay for my tuition and allow me to purchase the necessary supplies for my studies. Although my mom and I have gone above and beyond to scrape together money to pay for my degree, including working overtime and on holidays, it is still not enough. There have been many efforts made to improve our family's situation. As a first-generation college student, I strive to make my family proud. This scholarship will not only help me achieve my dreams but also accomplish something significant for my family. Attending Lincoln University as a rising college junior majoring in Health/Medical Technology, I am committed to excelling in my studies and contributing positively to the medical field. I am a Black woman who understands the importance of representation and diversity in healthcare. My goal is to work in communities that need compassionate and dedicated healthcare professionals. This scholarship will ease the financial burden and allow me to focus more on my education and less on financial stress. In conclusion, my future plans involve making a difference in the healthcare field by providing quality care to those who need it most. This scholarship will play a crucial role in helping me achieve these goals by supporting my education and reducing financial strain.

Being the child of a teen parent has significantly influenced my career aspirations, particularly in the medical field. Growing up in a single parent household, where my mother experienced the responsibilities of parenthood at a young age, instilled in me a strong feeling of empathy and resolve to make a difference in people's lives, particularly those in similar situations. I feel that by pursuing a career in medicine, I will be able to make a difference in the lives of others. As I grew up, I was able to witness the firsthand struggles and sacrifices my mother faced to provide for my brother and I. My desire to pursue a healthcare career is mainly because of my mother. Seeing the impact that she leaves on her patients, and their families is something that I strive to go through. Even once when I went to work with her, I was able to see the impact that access to quality healthcare can have on individuals. This upbringing inspired my ambition to work in the medical industry, since I am passionate about ensuring that everyone, regardless of background, has access to empathetic and high-quality care. Another way my mother has inspired me is through the many lessons she taught me. Two of them being the importance of resilience and perseverance. Although my mom worked long hours she never failed to be there as a parent and she always made it her goal to create a better future for us. As a woman, my mother always encouraged me to realize that it is necessary to be independent even when you are going through anything or if times are difficult. I am thankful for my mother because This mindset will undoubtedly serve me well in my future career in the medical field, where perseverance and resilience are essential qualities. Lastly, growing up in a household where I often had to share or when I didn't have enough of something helped make me aware of the disparities that exist in the world, and in our healthcare system. This and my mother has helped me notice how factors like socioeconomic status may influence access to healthcare and health outcomes, and this knowledge has motivated my desire to pursue a job that allows me to contribute towards reducing these gaps. Whether delivering direct patient treatment, conducting research, or lobbying for policy changes, I am committed to working towards creating a more equitable healthcare system where everyone has the opportunity to live healthy and full lives. Overall, growing up as the child of a teen mom has had a significant impact on my goals in life. It has fostered in me empathy, determination, and perseverance, as well as increased my awareness of the discrepancies in our healthcare system. By going to college, I demonstrate for my siblings a strong commitment to achieving academic success. As time passes, I believe that by achieving my goals, I am strengthening my relationship with my mother while also relying on her mutual support to help me overcome any challenges that may occur. I am determined to pursue a job that will allow me to help create a more equal and compassionate healthcare system for all people.

Being the child of a teen parent has significantly influenced my career aspirations, particularly in the medical field. Growing up in a single-parent household, where my mother experienced the responsibilities of parenthood at a young age, instilled in me a strong sense of empathy and a resolve to make a difference in people's lives, especially those in similar situations. I believe that by pursuing a career in medicine, I will be able to make a positive impact on the lives of others. As I grew up, I witnessed firsthand the struggles and sacrifices my mother faced to provide for my brother and me. My desire to pursue a healthcare career is mainly because of my mother. Seeing the impact she has on her patients and their families is something I strive to experience. Once, when I went to work with her, I saw how access to quality healthcare can change lives. This upbringing inspired my ambition to work in the medical industry because I am passionate about ensuring that everyone, regardless of background, has access to empathetic and high-quality care. I want to pursue a health science degree because it combines two of my passions: learning and serving my community. Health science takes a comprehensive approach to understanding the human body, its illnesses, and how to relieve suffering. With this degree, I hope to make a meaningful contribution to healthcare, particularly in underprivileged areas where access and quality are often inadequate. The idea of being at the forefront of medical discoveries and having a direct impact on people's lives inspires me greatly. This scholarship will help me pay for my tuition and allow me to purchase the necessary supplies for my studies. Although my mom and I have gone above and beyond to scrape together money to pay for my degree, including working overtime and on holidays, it is still not enough. There have been many efforts made to improve our family's situation. As a first-generation college student, I strive to make my family proud. This scholarship will not only help me achieve my dreams but also accomplish something significant for my family. Attending Lincoln University as a rising college junior majoring in Health Science, I am committed to excelling in my studies and contributing positively to the medical field. I am a Black woman who understands the importance of representation and diversity in healthcare. My goal is to work in communities that need compassionate and dedicated healthcare professionals. This scholarship will ease the financial burden and allow me to focus more on my education and less on financial stress. In conclusion, my future plans involve making a difference in the healthcare field by providing quality care to those who need it most. This scholarship will play a crucial role in helping me achieve these goals by supporting my education and reducing financial strain. Thank you for considering my application for the Bright Lights Scholarship. Your support will help me make a lasting impact in the medical field and bring positive change to my community.

I have always had a particular place in my heart for mathematics because of its elegance, precision, and limitless applications. My passion for maths is fueled by its singular ability to combine creativity and logic, the joy it provides in finding solutions to challenging issues, and its deep connection to the real world. Mathematical logic and organization are among its most captivating features. Each idea in mathematics builds on the one before it to form a logical and consistent framework. This logical development gives me a sense of assurance in a world that is frequently unpredictable, appealing to my sense of order and clarity. I find it fascinating that the laws and ideas of math are universal and transcend the boundaries of language and culture. Math is a very creative effort in addition to being merely numbers and equations. It frequently takes creative thinking and the capacity to identify connections and patterns that are not immediately apparent to solve mathematical puzzles. I find that math's creative component keeps me interested and pushes me to think creatively all the time. The creativity involved in maths is incredibly fulfilling, whether it is in the form of constructing a deft algorithm, coming up with an elegant proof, or solving a problem in a novel way. The feeling of achievement that math gives me is another reason why I adore it. Nothing compares to the satisfaction of working for hours on end to find a solution to a challenging problem. This feeling of accomplishment fuels my enthusiasm for the subject and serves as a source of motivation. It is a very satisfying feeling to dissect a problem, analyze it, and come up with a solution. In addition, math has numerous applications in a wide range of professions and is highly relevant to daily life. Numerous fields, including computer science, finance, physics, and engineering, are constructed on the foundation of mathematics. In conclusion, my love for math is rooted in its logical structure, creative problem-solving, and profound relevance to the real world. It is a subject that continually challenges and rewards me, fostering a lifelong passion for learning and discovery. Through math, I feel as though it will allow me to excel in my future career

Being the child of a teen parent has significantly influenced my career aspirations, particularly in the medical field. Growing up in a single parent household, where my mother experienced the responsibilities of parenthood at a young age, instilled in me a strong feeling of empathy and resolve to make a difference in people's lives, particularly those in similar situations. I feel that by pursuing a career in medicine, I will be able to make a difference in the lives of others. As I grew up, I was able to witness the firsthand struggles and sacrifices my mother faced to provide for my brother and I. My desire to pursue a healthcare career is mainly because of my mother. Seeing the impact that she leaves on her patients, and their families is something that I strive to go through. Even once when I went to work with her, I was able to see the impact that access to quality healthcare can have on individuals. This upbringing inspired my ambition to work in the medical industry, since I am passionate about ensuring that everyone, regardless of background, has access to empathetic and high-quality care. Another way my mother has inspired me is through the many lessons she taught me. Two of them being the importance of resilience and perseverance. Although my mom worked long hours she never failed to be there as a parent and she always made it her goal to create a better future for us. As a woman, my mother always encouraged me to realize that it is necessary to be independent even when you are going through anything or if times are difficult. I am thankful for my mother because This mindset will undoubtedly serve me well in my future career in the medical field, where perseverance and resilience are essential qualities. Lastly, growing up in a household where I often had to share or when I didn't have enough of something helped make me aware of the disparities that exist in the world, and in our healthcare system. This and my mother has helped me notice how factors like socioeconomic status may influence access to healthcare and health outcomes, and this knowledge has motivated my desire to pursue a job that allows me to contribute towards reducing these gaps. Whether delivering direct patient treatment, conducting research, or lobbying for policy changes, I am committed to working towards creating a more equitable healthcare system where everyone has the opportunity to live healthy and full lives.

Being the child of a teen parent has significantly influenced my career aspirations, particularly in the medical field. Growing up in a single parent household, where my mother experienced the responsibilities of parenthood at a young age, instilled in me a strong feeling of empathy and resolve to make a difference in people's lives, particularly those in similar situations. I feel that by pursuing a career in medicine, I will be able to make a difference in the lives of others. As I grew up, I was able to witness the firsthand struggles and sacrifices my mother faced to provide for my brother and I. My desire to pursue a healthcare career is mainly because of my mother. Seeing the impact that she leaves on her patients, and their families is something that I strive to go through. Even once when I went to work with her, I was able to see the impact that access to quality healthcare can have on individuals. This upbringing inspired my ambition to work in the medical industry, since I am passionate about ensuring that everyone, regardless of background, has access to empathetic and high-quality care. Another way my mother has inspired me is through the many lessons she taught me. Two of them being the importance of resilience and perseverance. Although my mom worked long hours she never failed to be there as a parent and she always made it her goal to create a better future for us. As a woman, my mother always encouraged me to realize that it is necessary to be independent even when you are going through anything or if times are difficult. I am thankful for my mother because This mindset will undoubtedly serve me well in my future career in the medical field, where perseverance and resilience are essential qualities. Lastly, growing up in a household where I often had to share or when I didn't have enough of something helped make me aware of the disparities that exist in the world, and in our healthcare system. This and my mother has helped me notice how factors like socioeconomic status may influence access to healthcare and health outcomes, and this knowledge has motivated my desire to pursue a job that allows me to contribute towards reducing these gaps. Whether delivering direct patient treatment, conducting research, or lobbying for policy changes, I am committed to working towards creating a more equitable healthcare system where everyone has the opportunity to live healthy and full lives.

My great-grandmother's garden was her safe haven. Whenever I would go to her house, she would ask me If I wanted to help her in the garden. I was reluctant at first but thought of the fact that she was getting older and it was an opportunity to bond with her and build beautiful memories. Ever since then, I helped her with potting, pruning the leaves, and watering the plants. It was the fifth of April and I went to her house fully expecting that we would go outside and garden, but instead, she broke the heartbreaking news. She had been diagnosed with cancer. Our family was in shock and couldn't believe how she could be sick when she seemed so “normal.” We knew she was hurting, but she put on a happy face for us. This made me realize that I would need to tend to her garden on my own so I could experience its beauty. The cancer began to worsen and she needed an at-home nurse. She couldn’t walk and needed more assistance around the house, but that didn't stop her from finding peace in the garden. Every Tuesday, her nurse and I would push her wheelchair into the garden and my great-grandmother would guide me through the gardening calendar for the year. She told me that she couldn't wait for the pansies to bloom in June, even when they had barely sprouted. I cherished those Tuesdays, the feeling of the sun shining on my face, the plants' beautiful smell in the air, and my great-grandmother’s hands guiding mine through the soil. Getting to see the beautiful flowers blossom across my great-grandmother's yard felt like a gift. Even after she passed, I felt as though she was still there with me as I gardened. It made me proud to know that I could keep her memory alive through her garden and that in her last moments, she knew that her garden was going to be taken care of. Those Tuesday afternoons taught me to cherish time with people I love and how to take care of the things I care about, no matter the circumstances. I am currently pursuing a health science degree at Lincoln University with the aim of caring for elderly people. I feel a personal connection to this field since it reminds me of my grandmother and enables me to relate to the elderly residents at the nursing home where I work. By working in this profession, I am making a meaningful contribution to society by helping Black people feel more comfortable in the world. I am confident that achieving my goal of becoming a nurse will have a lasting impact on my life.

Growing up with four siblings, I was always the go-to babysitter, which meant sometimes I became the nurse. At the age of 12, instead of playing outside, I was helping my mom change my younger brother's diaper. My mother taught me the importance of helping others and why it is beneficial to them. When my family asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up, I always said I had no idea, but I wanted to work in a field where I would be able to help others. After taking care of my siblings when they were babies, it made me realize that I could do well in pediatrics, and as I did more research about the field, I came across the Neonatal intensive care unit, which caught my eye even more. With all the experience I have, from bathing and cleaning to hospitality, I believe that this might be the perfect fit for me. My mother also worked in a hospital which made me notice nurses more. I watched the way they interacted with patients and was impressed by the compassion they showed toward them. Although my mom was not a nurse she always had good things to say about nurses. She would tell me that nurses are consistently advocating for patients and are great role models for not just kids but for their co-workers. I believe that nurses have the ability to teach and change a person's life. After watching countless youtube videos and reading online resources about Nursing, I learned that the Nursing field is extremely diverse and that you have to be dedicated and patient to be an excellent nurse. It is important to me that I am invested in my patient's recovery and that they know they are taken care of and in good hands. During the pandemic seeing how essential workers were needed and showed up for patients in need affirmed my place in this field. Seeing the sacrifices nurses made to help others survive and recover inspired me to want to do the same. Nurses play a vital role in the health care system and they are often the first line of defense for patients. I want to be a part of that and I believe that nursing is the perfect way to do that. Being in the neonatal intensive care unit means that I will be one of the first people a baby will see when they come into this world is the reward I want to receive every day.

One of my favorite shows on Netflix is "New Amsterdam.” This is my favorite show because watching it is like An engaging experience that takes you on a fascinating journey through the complexities of healthcare, human connection, and the never-ending desire for betterment. This show is not only a medical drama, but it dives deep into each character's life outside of the show as well. Driven by the charming and idealistic medical director, Dr. Max Goodwin, the show explores the challenges that healthcare professionals encounter as they seek to offer compassionate treatment in an imperfect system. The richly created characters, each with their own strengths, weaknesses, and moral dilemmas will keep you emotionally invested from the first episode. On top of that, "New Amsterdam" addresses current social and ethical issues with awareness and subtlety. From healthcare inequalities and institutional racism to the opioid epidemic and mental health stigma, the show bravely tackles real-world themes that resonate with viewers. By shedding light on these complicated topics in the context of a fictional hospital, "New Amsterdam" provokes vital conversations and builds more empathy and understanding. Furthermore, the show's constant optimism and faith in the power of empathy and human connection are extremely inspiring. Despite the numerous hurdles they face, the individuals in "New Amsterdam" are determined to make a difference in the lives of their patients and coworkers. Their tenacity, compassion, and constant commitment to their profession shine as a beacon of hope in an often chaotic world. In addition, "New Amsterdam" features fascinating narrative and intriguing plotlines that will have you on the edge of your seat. Whether it's a high-stakes medical emergency, a devastating personal revelation, or a happy moment of success, the show takes you on an emotional rollercoaster that will have you wanting more. Finally, by devoting your weekend to binge-watching "New Amsterdam," you are immersing yourself in a society dominated by empathy, compassion, and the never-ending desire of betterment. You'll laugh and cry, but most importantly, you'll leave with a deeper respect for the wonderful work that healthcare workers do on a daily basis. In conclusion, scheduling a weekend to binge-watch "New Amsterdam" is more than a suggestion; it is an invitation to embark on a transformative journey that will leave you inspired, uplifted, and deeply influenced. So grab your popcorn, settle down, and get ready to be gripped by one of the most captivating medical dramas of our generation.

Being the child of a teen parent has significantly influenced my career aspirations, particularly in the medical field. Growing up in a single parent household, where my mother experienced the responsibilities of parenthood at a young age, instilled in me a strong feeling of empathy and resolve to make a difference in people's lives, particularly those in similar situations. I feel that by pursuing a career in medicine, I will be able to make a difference in the lives of others. As I grew up, I was able to witness the firsthand struggles and sacrifices my mother faced to provide for my brother and I. My desire to pursue a healthcare career is mainly because of my mother. Seeing the impact that she leaves on her patients, and their families is something that I strive to go through. Even once when I went to work with her, I was able to see the impact that access to quality healthcare can have on individuals. This upbringing inspired my ambition to work in the medical industry, since I am passionate about ensuring that everyone, regardless of background, has access to empathetic and high-quality care. Another way my mother has inspired me is through the many lessons she taught me. Two of them being the importance of resilience and perseverance. Although my mom worked long hours she never failed to be there as a parent and she always made it her goal to create a better future for us. As a woman, my mother always encouraged me to realize that it is necessary to be independent even when you are going through anything or if times are difficult. I am thankful for my mother because This mindset will undoubtedly serve me well in my future career in the medical field, where perseverance and resilience are essential qualities. Lastly, growing up in a household where I often had to share or when I didn't have enough of something helped make me aware of the disparities that exist in the world, and in our healthcare system. This and my mother has helped me notice how factors like socioeconomic status may influence access to healthcare and health outcomes, and this knowledge has motivated my desire to pursue a job that allows me to contribute towards reducing these gaps. Whether delivering direct patient treatment, conducting research, or lobbying for policy changes, I am committed to working towards creating a more equitable healthcare system where everyone has the opportunity to live healthy and full lives. Overall, growing up as the child of a teen mom has had a significant impact on my goals in life. It has fostered in me empathy, determination, and perseverance, as well as increased my awareness of the discrepancies in our healthcare system. I am determined to pursue a job that will allow me to help create a more equal and compassionate healthcare system for all people.

Being the child of a teen parent has significantly influenced my career aspirations, particularly in the medical field. Growing up in a single parent household, where my mother experienced the responsibilities of parenthood at a young age, instilled in me a strong feeling of empathy and resolve to make a difference in people's lives, particularly those in similar situations. I feel that by pursuing a career in medicine, I will be able to make a difference in the lives of others. As I grew up, I was able to witness the firsthand struggles and sacrifices my mother faced to provide for my brother and I. My desire to pursue a healthcare career is mainly because of my mother. Seeing the impact that she leaves on her patients, and their families is something that I strive to go through. Even once when I went to work with her, I was able to see the impact that access to quality healthcare can have on individuals. This upbringing inspired my ambition to work in the medical industry, since I am passionate about ensuring that everyone, regardless of background, has access to empathetic and high-quality care. Another way my mother has inspired me is through the many lessons she taught me. Two of them being the importance of resilience and perseverance. Although my mom worked long hours she never failed to be there as a parent and she always made it her goal to create a better future for us. As a woman, my mother always encouraged me to realize that it is necessary to be independent even when you are going through anything or if times are difficult. I am thankful for my mother because This mindset will undoubtedly serve me well in my future career in the medical field, where perseverance and resilience are essential qualities. Lastly, growing up in a household where I often had to share or when I didn't have enough of something helped make me aware of the disparities that exist in the world, and in our healthcare system. This and my mother has helped me notice how factors like socioeconomic status may influence access to healthcare and health outcomes, and this knowledge has motivated my desire to pursue a job that allows me to contribute towards reducing these gaps. Whether delivering direct patient treatment, conducting research, or lobbying for policy changes, I am committed to working towards creating a more equitable healthcare system where everyone has the opportunity to live healthy and full lives. Overall, growing up as the child of a teen mom has had a significant impact on my goals in life. It has fostered in me empathy, determination, and perseverance, as well as increased my awareness of the discrepancies in our healthcare system. I am determined to pursue a job that will allow me to help create a more equal and compassionate healthcare system for all people.

Growing up with four siblings, I was always the go-to babysitter, which meant sometimes I became the nurse. At the age of 12, instead of playing outside, I was helping my mom change my younger brother's diaper. My mother taught me the importance of helping others and why it is beneficial to them. When my family asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up, I always said I had no idea, but I wanted to work in a field where I would be able to help others. After taking care of my siblings when they were babies, it made me realize that I could do well in pediatrics, and as I did more research about the field, I came across the Neonatal intensive care unit, which caught my eye even more. With all the experience I have, from bathing and cleaning to hospitality, I believe that this might be the perfect fit for me. My mother also worked in a hospital which made me notice nurses more. I watched the way they interacted with patients and was impressed by the compassion they showed toward them. Although my mom was not a nurse she always had good things to say about nurses. She would tell me that nurses are consistently advocating for patients and are great role models for not just kids but for their co-workers. I believe that nurses have the ability to teach and change a person's life. At this point, there was still a lot that I was not aware of regarding neonatal nurses. When I got to high school, I told my counselor that I wanted to be a Registered Nurse, and he talked to me about a friend he knew that was a nurse. This woman made me consider researching the field in depth, not just the salary or main job responsibilities. She wanted me to look into what this career meant to me long term. During the pandemic seeing how essential workers were needed and showed up for patients in need affirmed my place in this field. Seeing the sacrifices nurses made to help others survive and recover inspired me to want to do the same. As a woman in the medical field, I wish to help break down barriers and challenge preconceptions. Historically, men have dominated healthcare, particularly in leadership roles and certain specialties. However, the scene is shifting, with more women entering and excelling in a variety of healthcare positions. I want to be a part of this movement, using my talents, knowledge, and experiences to advocate for gender equality and encourage other women to seek careers in healthcare. Nurses play a vital role in the health care system and they are often the first line of defense for patients. I want to be a part of that and I believe that nursing is the perfect way to do that. Being in the neonatal intensive care unit means that I will be one of the first people a baby will see when they come into this world is the reward I want to receive every day.

Growing up with four siblings, I was always the go-to babysitter, which meant I also became the caretaker. At the age of 12, instead of playing outside, I was helping my mom change my younger brother's diapers. My mother taught me the importance of helping others and why it is beneficial to them. When my family asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up, I always said I had no idea. But I knew I wanted to work in a field where I would be able to serve others. After taking care of my siblings when they were babies, I wanted to pursue a career in pediatrics. As I did more research about the field, I came across the Neonatal intensive care unit, which caught my eye even more. With all the experience I have, from bathing and cleaning to hospitality with toddlers, I believe that this field may be the perfect fit for me. My mother also worked in a hospital which made me notice nurses more. Sometimes on Fridays, she would bring me with her whenever the hospital wasn't too busy. She was a phlebotomist, which meant she was in the lab on the third floor, and I would be sitting in the corner of the room, watching and observing everything that was going on. When she had to pick up samples and take them to the labor and delivery floor, she would bring me with her. I could hear the monitors of heartbeats beating and I watched how the nurses interacted with their patients. I was impressed by their compassion towards them. Although my mom was not a nurse she always had good things to say about nurses. She would tell me that nurses are consistently advocating for patients and are great role models for not just kids but for their co-workers. I believe that nurses have the ability to teach and change a person's life. It is important to me that I am involved in my patients' recovery because I am invested in their well being. I want my parents to know that they are being taken care of and in good hands. Taking care of my siblings when I was younger and not being able to do anything else unless they were cared for, motivates me to want to give my patients the same care once I am a nurse. During the pandemic, our nation got to see how essential workers were needed and showed up for patients in need. Noticing this affirmed my place in this field. Seeing the sacrifices nurses made to help others survive and recover inspired me to want to do the same. Nurses play a vital role in the health care system and they are often the first line of defense for patients. I want to be a part of that and I believe that nursing is the perfect way to do that. Being in the neonatal intensive care unit means that I will be one of the first people a baby will see when they come into this world. This is a moving experience that would be an honor to be apart of every day.

I want to pursue a health science degree because it combines two of my passions: learning and serving my community. Health science takes a comprehensive approach to understanding the human body, its illnesses, and how to relieve suffering. With this degree, I hope to make a meaningful contribution to healthcare, particularly in underprivileged places where access and quality are often inadequate. The notion of being at the forefront of medical discoveries and having a direct impact on people's lives inspires me tremendously. To me, being Black represents perseverance, culture, and a tradition of success over hardship. It entails expressing strength in the face of systemic challenges, honoring our heritage, and striving for excellence despite adversity. Choosing to attend a historically black college or university (HBCU) demonstrates my dedication to both my education and my identity. HBCUs provide an atmosphere in which Black students can thrive intellectually, culturally, and socially. They provide a loving community that acknowledges and honors Black students' unique experiences, while simultaneously offering demanding academic programs. Attending an HBCU is more than just getting a degree; it's about carrying on an empowerment legacy and developing the next generation of leaders. Being apart of a community where I can contribute to and learn from my peers, is what I aspire to be apart of.

The Other Wes Moore is a powerful and fascinating book that follows the lives of two young men with the same name who grew up in similar circumstances but took completely different paths. The book goes into problems such as poverty, privilege, education, and the criminal justice system, providing readers with insight into the intricacy of these issues and how they can affect people's lives. If I could have everyone in the world read this book, I feel it would start vital conversations while also encouraging empathy and compassion for individuals who have had diverse life situations. Reading about the trials and obstacles faced by both Wes Moores allows readers to have a better understanding of the different circumstances that might influence a person's life journey. In addition, The Other Wes Moore emphasises the value of community support, mentorship, and second chances. It emphasizes the power of positive influences in a person's life, as well as the possibility of transformation and growth in the face of adversity. I feel that if everyone read this book it would help build a stronger sense of compassion and empathy towards others, especially those who have had similar struggles as Wes Moore, who ended up in prison. It would also serve as a call to action for individuals to become more involved in supporting their communities and fighting to create a more just and equitable society for everyone. In conclusion, The Other Wes Moore is a captivating and significant book that provides unique insights on the complicated issues of life and the factors that influence a person's future. I feel that if everyone read this book, individuals will have the ability to inspire positive change while also promoting deeper knowledge and empathy for others.

Growing up with four siblings, I was always the go-to babysitter, which meant I also became the caretaker. At the age of 12, instead of playing outside, I was helping my mom change my younger brother's diapers. My mother taught me the importance of helping others and why it is beneficial to them. When my family asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up, I always said I had no idea. But I knew I wanted to work in a field where I would be able to serve others. After taking care of my siblings when they were babies, I wanted to pursue a career in pediatrics. As I did more research about the field, I came across the Neonatal intensive care unit, which caught my eye even more. With all the experience I have, from bathing and cleaning to hospitality with toddlers, I believe that this field may be the perfect fit for me. My mother also worked in a hospital which made me notice nurses more. Sometimes on Fridays, she would bring me with her whenever the hospital wasn't too busy. She was a phlebotomist, which meant she was in the lab on the third floor, and I would be sitting in the corner of the room, watching and observing everything that was going on. When she had to pick up samples and take them to the labor and delivery floor, she would bring me with her. I could hear the monitors of heartbeats beating and I watched how the nurses interacted with their patients. I was impressed by their compassion towards them. Although my mom was not a nurse she always had good things to say about nurses. She would tell me that nurses are consistently advocating for patients and are great role models for not just kids but for their co-workers. I believe that nurses have the ability to teach and change a person's life. It is important to me that I am involved in my patients' recovery because I am invested in their well being. I want my parents to know that they are being taken care of and in good hands. Taking care of my siblings when I was younger and not being able to do anything else unless they were cared for, motivates me to want to give my patients the same care once I am a nurse. During the pandemic, our nation got to see how essential workers were needed and showed up for patients in need. Noticing this affirmed my place in this field. Seeing the sacrifices nurses made to help others survive and recover inspired me to want to do the same. Nurses play a vital role in the health care system and they are often the first line of defense for patients. I want to be a part of that and I believe that nursing is the perfect way to do that. Being in the neonatal intensive care unit means that I will be one of the first people a baby will see when they come into this world. This is a moving experience that would be an honor to be apart of every day.

Growing up with four siblings, I was always the go-to babysitter, which meant I also became the caretaker. At the age of 12, instead of playing outside, I was helping my mom change my younger brother's diapers. My mother taught me the importance of helping others and why it is beneficial to them. When my family asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up, I always said I had no idea. But I knew I wanted to work in a field where I would be able to serve others. After taking care of my siblings when they were babies, I wanted to pursue a career in pediatrics. As I did more research about the field, I came across the Neonatal intensive care unit, which caught my eye even more. With all the experience I have, from bathing and cleaning to hospitality with toddlers, I believe that this field may be the perfect fit for me. My mother also worked in a hospital which made me notice nurses more. Sometimes on Fridays, she would bring me with her whenever the hospital wasn't too busy. She was a phlebotomist, which meant she was in the lab on the third floor, and I would be sitting in the corner of the room, watching and observing everything that was going on. When she had to pick up samples and take them to the labor and delivery floor, she would bring me with her. I could hear the monitors of heartbeats beating and I watched how the nurses interacted with their patients. I was impressed by their compassion towards them. Although my mom was not a nurse she always had good things to say about nurses. She would tell me that nurses are consistently advocating for patients and are great role models for not just kids but for their co-workers. I believe that nurses have the ability to teach and change a person's life. It is important to me that I am involved in my patients' recovery because I am invested in their well being. I want my parents to know that they are being taken care of and in good hands. Taking care of my siblings when I was younger and not being able to do anything else unless they were cared for, motivates me to want to give my patients the same care once I am a nurse. During the pandemic, our nation got to see how essential workers were needed and showed up for patients in need. Noticing this affirmed my place in this field. Seeing the sacrifices nurses made to help others survive and recover inspired me to want to do the same. Nurses play a vital role in the health care system and they are often the first line of defense for patients. I want to be a part of that and I believe that nursing is the perfect way to do that. Being in the neonatal intensive care unit means that I will be one of the first people a baby will see when they come into this world. This is a moving experience that would be an honor to be apart of every day.

Growing up with four siblings, I was always the go-to babysitter, which meant I also became the caretaker. At the age of 12, instead of playing outside, I was helping my mom change my younger brother's diapers. My mother taught me the importance of helping others and why it is beneficial to them. When my family asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up, I always said I had no idea. But I knew I wanted to work in a field where I would be able to serve others. After taking care of my siblings when they were babies, I wanted to pursue a career in pediatrics. As I did more research about the field, I came across the Neonatal intensive care unit, which caught my eye even more. With all the experience I have, from bathing and cleaning to hospitality with toddlers, I believe that this field may be the perfect fit for me. My mother also worked in a hospital which made me notice nurses more. Sometimes on Fridays, she would bring me with her whenever the hospital wasn't too busy. She was a phlebotomist, which meant she was in the lab on the third floor, and I would be sitting in the corner of the room, watching and observing everything that was going on. When she had to pick up samples and take them to the labor and delivery floor, she would bring me with her. I could hear the monitors of heartbeats beating and I watched how the nurses interacted with their patients. I was impressed by their compassion towards them. Although my mom was not a nurse she always had good things to say about nurses. She would tell me that nurses are consistently advocating for patients and are great role models for not just kids but for their co-workers. I believe that nurses have the ability to teach and change a person's life. It is important to me that I am involved in my patients' recovery because I am invested in their well being. I want my parents to know that they are being taken care of and in good hands. Taking care of my siblings when I was younger and not being able to do anything else unless they were cared for, motivates me to want to give my patients the same care once I am a nurse. During the pandemic, our nation got to see how essential workers were needed and showed up for patients in need. Noticing this affirmed my place in this field. Seeing the sacrifices nurses made to help others survive and recover inspired me to want to do the same. Nurses play a vital role in the health care system and they are often the first line of defense for patients. I want to be a part of that and I believe that nursing is the perfect way to do that. Being in the neonatal intensive care unit means that I will be one of the first people a baby will see when they come into this world. This is a moving experience that would be an honor to be apart of every day.

I returned home from school each day to my Princess Tiana-themed room. Tiana's face was on my bedspread, there were toy frogs on top of my desk and dresser, and even her face was on my drapes. Whenever my friends came over to my house, we'd play with my princess dolls, and I'd always pick up Tiana. They hated me for it, but It didn't phase me. All of the Disney princess films were fantastic, but my favorite was The Princess and the Frog. I fell in love with the princess because she reminded me of myself and looked like me. As I began to grow up I started to notice the impact Tiana had on my life. Finally, Disney produced a person young black girls could look up to. Now as a high school senior headed for college, I am working incredibly hard to save money while simultaneously attempting to find time for my social life. I am reminded of my tenacity and dedication, which I inherited from my role model Tiana, as I submit applications for scholarships like this one. Throughout the movie, Disney added multiple cultural references to help personalize Tiana's character. This made it possible for me to see a middle-class perspective and was inspired to want to be successful by working through the numerous challenges I faced within my college process, such as trying to find ways to pay for college. Tiana showed me that even though you need to be determined to achieve your goals, you must always have fun and find a way to make peace when working to resolve a challenging issue. The Princess and the Frog serves as a helpful reminder for me to occasionally take a break and start setting aside time for my friends and family to spend time with. Tiana was one of the few Disney princesses who demonstrated the value of making errors to learn from them and how to solve struggles. I think that following the release of The Princess and the Frog, Disney Channel started to embrace children of color more. I'm one of those kids. There are now more movies that shed light on global issues that young children and teens must deal with. When I think of Disney Channel, I think of a place where I can always feel included, whether I'm looking to relive my childhood or simply connect with my favorite princess, Tiana.

My great-grandmother's garden was her safe haven. Whenever I would go to her house, she would ask me If I wanted to help her in the garden. I was reluctant at first but thought of the fact that she was getting older and it was opportunity to bond with her and build beautiful memories. Ever since then, I helped her with potting, pruning the leaves, and watering the plants. It was the fifth of April and I went to her house fully expecting that we would go outside and garden, but instead, she broke the heartbreaking news. She had been diagnosed with cancer. Our family was in shock and couldn't believe how she could be sick when she seemed so “normal.” We knew she was hurting, but she put on a happy face for us. This made me realize that I would need to tend to her garden on my own so I could experience its beauty. The cancer began to worsen and she needed an at-home nurse. She couldn’t walk and needed more assistance around the house, but that didn't stop her from finding peace in the garden. Every Tuesday, her nurse and I would push her wheelchair into the garden and my great-grandmother would guide me through the gardening calendar for the year. She told me that she couldn't wait for the pansies to bloom in June, even when they had barely sprouted. I cherished those Tuesdays, the feeling of the sun shining on my face, the plants' beautiful smell in the air, and my great-grandmother’s hands guiding mine through the soil. Getting to see the beautiful flowers blossom across my great-grandmother's yard felt like a gift. Even after she passed, I felt as though she was still there with me as I gardened. It made me proud to know that I could keep her memory alive through her garden and that in her last moments, she knew that her garden was going to be taken care of. Those Tuesday afternoons taught me to cherish time with people I love and how to take care of the things I care about, no matter the circumstances.

Growing up with four siblings, I was always the go-to babysitter, which meant sometimes I became the nurse. At the age of 12, instead of playing outside, I was helping my mom change my younger brother's diaper. My mother taught me the importance of helping others and why it is beneficial to them. When my family asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up, I always said I had no idea, but I wanted to work in a field where I would be able to help others. After taking care of my siblings when they were babies, it made me realize that I could do well in pediatrics, and as I did more research about the field, I came across the Neonatal intensive care unit, which caught my eye even more. With all the experience I have, from bathing and cleaning to hospitality, I believe that this might be the perfect fit for me. My mother also worked in a hospital which made me notice nurses more. I watched the way they interacted with patients and was impressed by the compassion they showed toward them. Although my mom was not a nurse she always had good things to say about nurses. She would tell me that nurses are consistently advocating for patients and are great role models for not just kids but for their co-workers. I believe that nurses have the ability to teach and change a person's life. At this point, there was still a lot that I was not aware of regarding neonatal nurses. When I got to high school, I told my counselor that I wanted to be a Register Nurse, and he talked to me about a friend he knew that was a nurse. This woman made me consider researching the field in depth, not just the salary or main job responsibilities. She wanted me to look into what this career meant to me long term. After watching countless youtube videos and reading online resources about Nursing, I learned that the Nursing field is extremely diverse and that you have to be dedicated and patient to be an excellent nurse. It is important to me that I am invested in my patient's recovery and that they know they are taken care of and in good hands. During the pandemic seeing how essential workers were needed and showed up for patients in need affirmed my place in this field. Seeing the sacrifices nurses made to help others survive and recover inspired me to want to do the same. Nurses play a vital role in the health care system and they are often the first line of defense for patients. I want to be a part of that and I believe that nursing is the perfect way to do that. Being in the neonatal intensive care unit means that I will be one of the first people a baby will see when they come into this world is the reward I want to receive every day.

Growing up with four siblings, I was always the go-to babysitter, which meant sometimes I became the nurse. At the age of 12, instead of playing outside, I was helping my mom change my younger brother's diaper. My mother taught me the importance of helping others and why it is beneficial to them. When my family asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up, I always said I had no idea, but I wanted to work in a field where I would be able to help others. After taking care of my siblings when they were babies, it made me realize that I could do well in pediatrics, and as I did more research about the field, I came across the Neonatal intensive care unit, which caught my eye even more. With all the experience I have, from bathing and cleaning to hospitality, I believe that this might be the perfect fit for me. My mother also worked in a hospital which made me notice nurses more. I watched the way they interacted with patients and was impressed by the compassion they showed toward them. Although my mom was not a nurse she always had good things to say about nurses. She would tell me that nurses are consistently advocating for patients and are great role models for not just kids but for their co-workers. I believe that nurses have the ability to teach and change a person's life. At this point, there was still a lot that I was not aware of regarding neonatal nurses. When I got to high school, I told my counselor that I wanted to be a Register Nurse, and he talked to me about a friend he knew that was a nurse. This woman made me consider researching the field in depth, not just the salary or main job responsibilities. She wanted me to look into what this career meant to me long term. After watching countless youtube videos and reading online resources about Nursing, I learned that the Nursing field is extremely diverse and that you have to be dedicated and patient to be an excellent nurse. It is important to me that I am invested in my patient's recovery and that they know they are taken care of and in good hands. During the pandemic seeing how essential workers were needed and showed up for patients in need affirmed my place in this field. Seeing the sacrifices nurses made to help others survive and recover inspired me to want to do the same. Nurses play a vital role in the health care system and they are often the first line of defense for patients. I want to be a part of that and I believe that nursing is the perfect way to do that. Being in the neonatal intensive care unit means that I will be one of the first people a baby will see when they come into this world is the reward I want to receive every day.

Growing up with four siblings, I was always the go-to babysitter, which meant sometimes I became the nurse. At the age of 12, instead of playing outside, I was helping my mom change my younger brother's diaper. My mother taught me the importance of helping others and why it is beneficial to them. When my family asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up, I always said I had no idea, but I wanted to work in a field where I would be able to help others. After taking care of my siblings when they were babies, it made me realize that I could do well in pediatrics, and as I did more research about the field, I came across the Neonatal intensive care unit, which caught my eye even more. With all the experience I have, from bathing and cleaning to hospitality, I believe that this might be the perfect fit for me. My mother also worked in a hospital which made me notice nurses more. I watched the way they interacted with patients and was impressed by the compassion they showed toward them. Although my mom was not a nurse she always had good things to say about nurses. She would tell me that nurses are consistently advocating for patients and are great role models for not just kids but for their co-workers. I believe that nurses have the ability to teach and change a person's life. At this point, there was still a lot that I was not aware of regarding neonatal nurses. When I got to high school, I told my counselor that I wanted to be a Register Nurse, and he talked to me about a friend he knew that was a nurse. This woman made me consider researching the field in depth, not just the salary or main job responsibilities. She wanted me to look into what this career meant to me long term. After watching countless youtube videos and reading online resources about Nursing, I learned that the Nursing field is extremely diverse and that you have to be dedicated and patient to be an excellent nurse. It is important to me that I am invested in my patient's recovery and that they know they are taken care of and in good hands. During the pandemic seeing how essential workers were needed and showed up for patients in need affirmed my place in this field. Seeing the sacrifices nurses made to help others survive and recover inspired me to want to do the same. Nurses play a vital role in the health care system and they are often the first line of defense for patients. I want to be a part of that and I believe that nursing is the perfect way to do that. Being in the neonatal intensive care unit means that I will be one of the first people a baby will see when they come into this world is the reward I want to receive every day.

Growing up with four siblings, I was always the go-to babysitter, which meant sometimes I became the nurse. At the age of 12, instead of playing outside, I was helping my mom change my younger brother's diaper. My mother taught me the importance of helping others and why it is beneficial to them. When my family asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up, I always said I had no idea, but I wanted to work in a field where I would be able to help others. After taking care of my siblings when they were babies, it made me realize that I could do well in pediatrics, and as I did more research about the field, I came across the Neonatal intensive care unit, which caught my eye even more. With all the experience I have, from bathing and cleaning to hospitality, I believe that this might be the perfect fit for me. My mother also worked in a hospital which made me notice nurses more. I watched the way they interacted with patients and was impressed by the compassion they showed toward them. Although my mom was not a nurse she always had good things to say about nurses. She would tell me that nurses are consistently advocating for patients and are great role models for not just kids but for their co-workers. I believe that nurses have the ability to teach and change a person's life. At this point, there was still a lot that I was not aware of regarding neonatal nurses. When I got to high school, I told my counselor that I wanted to be a Register Nurse, and he talked to me about a friend he knew that was a nurse. This woman made me consider researching the field in depth, not just the salary or main job responsibilities. She wanted me to look into what this career meant to me long term. After watching countless youtube videos and reading online resources about Nursing, I learned that the Nursing field is extremely diverse and that you have to be dedicated and patient to be an excellent nurse. It is important to me that I am invested in my patient's recovery and that they know they are taken care of and in good hands. During the pandemic seeing how essential workers were needed and showed up for patients in need affirmed my place in this field. Seeing the sacrifices nurses made to help others survive and recover inspired me to want to do the same. Nurses play a vital role in the health care system and they are often the first line of defense for patients. I want to be a part of that and I believe that nursing is the perfect way to do that. Being in the neonatal intensive care unit means that I will be one of the first people a baby will see when they come into this world is the reward I want to receive every day.