“Be the change you want to see” is one of the many affirmations I have always told myself. I had never been seen by a black healthcare provider up until two years ago, at the age of twenty-nine years old, in the emergency department. Before seeing a provider of color, I always felt unheard and undervalued in healthcare environments. As a soon-to-be registered nurse, it is my moral obligation to give back to the community in that I live in. I will contribute to the mission of the Henry Bynum, Jr. Memorial Scholarship by committing to work in a critically short-staffed and underserved healthcare facility. Representation is not a want; it is a need. Studies show that black patients have better results when they are treated by black healthcare workers. And because there is a direct correlation between health and wealth, representation in healthcare leads to better health and fewer medical bills. Working with vulnerable populations will allow me to promote diversity in healthcare which in return has its benefits such as a reduction in care disparities, improved and optimized care delivery, and improved access to care. I want to care for the generations that will come after me. I am a thirty-one-year-old, African American woman, mother of two, and non-traditional nursing student, confident that I am a top candidate to apply to the Henry Bynum, Jr. Memorial Scholarship. My personal experiences as an underrepresented minority in healthcare environments have provided me insight into the challenges that underserved patients may encounter. The research demonstrates that patients’ outcomes improve when patients have a healthcare provider that has that same ethnicity. Having a caregiver who looks like you can provide comfort and security. As an African American woman, I am well positioned to connect with African Americans that may be hesitant to receive healthcare. Providing healthcare services to underserved individuals, families, communities, and groups will always hit close to home. I truly believe that working with underserved communities will help educate me on the best ways to provide care for my patients. By working in these communities, I will be allowed to become more empathic and learn how to advocate for their needs. As healthcare providers, we tend to forget that working with patients should feel more like a collaboration instead of just one-sided. My goal as a future nurse is to be an advocate for those who cannot advocate for themselves. I am deeply committed to improving the health and well-being of underserved communities, and I believe that the Henry Bynum, Jr. Memorial Scholarship would allow me to make a meaningful impact in my area. As a nurse, I would be able to provide critical healthcare services to those who need it most, and by working in underserved communities, I would be able to address some of the systemic issues that contribute to healthcare disparities. Furthermore, by committing to two years of service, I would be able to give back to the community and help create a more equitable healthcare system for all.

“Be the change you want to see” is one of the many affirmations I have always told myself. I had never been seen by a black healthcare provider up until two years ago, at the age of twenty-nine years old, in the emergency department. Before seeing a provider of color, I always felt unheard and undervalued in healthcare environments. As a soon-to-be registered nurse, it is my moral obligation to give back to the community in that I live in. I will contribute to the mission of the Mohamed Magdi Taha Memorial Scholarship by committing to work in a critically short-staffed and underserved healthcare facility. Representation is not a want; it is a need. Working with vulnerable populations will allow me to promote diversity in healthcare which in return has its benefits such as a reduction in care disparities, improved and optimized care delivery, and improved access to care. I want to care for the generations that will come after me. I am a thirty-one-year-old, African American woman, mother of two, and non-traditional nursing student, confident that I am a top candidate to apply to the Mohamed Magdi Taha Memorial Scholarship. My personal experiences as an underrepresented minority in healthcare environments have provided me insight into the challenges that underserved patients may encounter. The research demonstrates that patients’ outcomes improve when patients have a healthcare provider that has that same ethnicity. Having a caregiver who looks like you can provide comfort and security. As an African American woman, I am well positioned to connect with African Americans that may be hesitant to receive healthcare. Providing healthcare services to underserved individuals, families, communities, and groups will always hit close to home. I truly believe that working with underserved communities will help educate me on the best ways to provide care for my patients. My goal as a future nurse is to be an advocate for those who cannot advocate for themselves. As a person of color, I understand firsthand the challenges that underserved communities face when it comes to accessing quality healthcare. By providing healthcare services to these communities, I can help address some of these disparities and improve the health outcomes of those who are often marginalized and overlooked. This scholarship will allow me to bridge the gap as a medical professional of color. I aim to be a role model for my children to reach for the stars and dream the biggest dream. Letting them know it is possible to be black in healthcare and help our community live. I will continue to show my children that it is possible to go to a healthcare institution and see a doctor, surgeon, or nurse that looks like us. This is important because many do not believe what they do not see. By serving as a role model and mentor, I can inspire young people to pursue careers in healthcare and make a difference in their communities. I am deeply committed to improving the health and well-being of underserved communities, and I believe that the Mohamed Magdi Taha Memorial Scholarship would provide me with the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in my area. As a nurse, I would be able to provide critical healthcare services to those who need it most, and by working in underserved communities, I would be able to address some of the systemic issues that contribute to healthcare disparities. Furthermore, by committing to two years of service, I would be able to give back to the community and help create a more equitable healthcare system for all.

My name is D’eidria Braxton. I am a graduate of the University of Missouri-Columbia, class of 2015. I received my BA in psychology with a minor in social work and a multicultural certificate. My career aspirations consist of acquiring an ADN nursing degree from Saint Louis Community College that will assist me in becoming a pediatric nurse. I am writing to express my interest in the Deborah Stevens Pediatric Nursing Scholarship. This award will be an initial step in furthering my education at STLCC. I would like to say that the best part about applying to this scholarship is being considered for this scholarship because it will afford me a great opportunity to further my studies in nursing. It will also allow me to complete clinical hours and help to ease the financial burden of paying for nursing school. This award will allow me to properly plan for lectures, homework, and clinical hours as a professional. During my time as an undergraduate at the University of Missouri-Columbia, I worked thirty hours per week to fund my education and other living expenses. As a supervisor of Campus Dining Services, I acquired many skills that have helped me enormously in my personal and professional development. I have gained leadership skills, networking skills, and even coaching capabilities. Being a student employee has made me approachable, organized, and ambitious. Candidacy for this award is based on someone with the skills, ambitions, and strength of a registered nurse; that individual is me. I am emotionally intelligent, and resilient, and I have strong communication skills. I also have over ten years of experience in paid and unpaid opportunities that will allow me to flourish as a scholar in this nursing program. I have an innate desire to pursue my academic goals in nursing, but as a mother of two, it wouldn’t be without great financial strain. I am a firm believer that "faith without works is dead", so I’m making it a priority to apply for financial assistance to make my dreams a reality. This dream is not for me, but for my children, to show them that nothing is out of their reach! One of my greatest accomplishments to date is when I was sworn in by the judge of Boone County Court in 2014. After completing 300 training hours, I was appointed by Boone County as a court-appointed special advocate (CASA) for abused and neglected children. It’s an honor when you are recognized for your commitment to the social welfare of children. With such a financial gain, I will be able to help underserved populations in the Saint Louis Metropolitan area. Upon completing nursing school, I plan to learn all I can about pediatric nursing. Serving my community as well as fulfilling this personal goal are both obtainable if I am granted this scholarship. Being the first in my family to obtain an advanced degree will set a new precedent for my family. Thank you for your time and consideration.

My name is D’eidria Braxton. I am a graduate of the University of Missouri-Columbia, class of 2015. I received my BA in psychology with a minor in social work and a multicultural certificate. My career aspirations consist of acquiring an ADN nursing degree from Saint Louis Community College that will assist me in promoting black women in nursing within the community. I am writing to express my interest in the C.I.P. Scholarship. This award will be an initial step in furthering my education at STLCC. I would like to say that the best part about applying to this scholarship is being considered for this scholarship because it will afford me a great opportunity to further my studies in nursing. It will also allow me to complete clinical hours and help to ease the financial burden of paying for nursing school. This award will allow me to properly plan for lectures, homework, and clinical hours as a professional. During my time as an undergraduate at the University of Missouri-Columbia, I worked thirty hours per week to fund my education and other living expenses. As a supervisor of Campus Dining Services, I acquired many skills that have helped me enormously in my personal and professional development. I have gained leadership skills, networking skills, and even coaching capabilities. Being a student employee has made me approachable, organized, and ambitious. Candidacy for this award is based on someone with the skills, ambitions, and strength of a registered nurse; that individual is me. I am emotionally intelligent, and resilient, and I have strong communication skills. I also have over ten years of experience in paid and unpaid opportunities that will allow me to flourish as a scholar in this nursing program. I have an innate desire to pursue my academic goals in nursing, but as a mother of two, it wouldn’t be without great financial strain. I am a firm believer that "faith without works is dead", so I’m making it a priority to apply for financial assistance to make my dreams a reality. This dream is not for me, but for my children, to show them that nothing is out of their reach! One of my greatest accomplishments to date is when I was sworn in by the judge of Boone County Court in 2014. After completing 300 training hours, I was appointed by Boone County as a court-appointed special advocate (CASA) for abused and neglected children. It’s an honor when you are recognized for your commitment to the social welfare of children. With such a financial gain, I will be able to help underserved populations in the Saint Louis Metropolitan area. Upon completing nursing school, I plan to learn all I can about labor and delivery. Serving my community as well as fulfilling this personal goal are both obtainable if I am granted this scholarship. Being the first in my family to obtain an advanced degree will set a new precedent for my family. Thank you for your time and consideration.

My name is D’eidria Braxton. I am a graduate of the University of Missouri-Columbia, class of 2015. I received my BA in psychology with a minor in social work and a multicultural certificate. My career aspirations consist of acquiring an ADN nursing degree from Saint Louis Community College that will assist me in promoting black women in nursing within the community. I am writing to express my interest in Charles Cheesman's Student Debt Reduction Scholarship. This award will be an initial step in furthering my education at STLCC. I would like to be considered for this scholarship because it will afford me a great opportunity to further my studies in nursing. It will also allow me to complete clinical hours and help to ease the financial burden of paying for nursing school. As a professional, this award will allow me to properly plan for lectures, homework, and clinical hours. During my time as an undergraduate at the University of Missouri-Columbia, I worked thirty hours per week to fund my education and other living expenses. As a supervisor of Campus Dining Services, I acquired many skills that have helped me enormously in my personal and professional development. I have gained leadership skills, networking skills, and even coaching capabilities. Being a student employee has made me approachable, organized, and ambitious. Candidacy for this award is based on someone who has the skills, ambitions, and strength of a registered nurse; and that individual is me. I am emotionally intelligent, and resilient, and I have strong communication skills. I also have over ten years of experience in paid and unpaid opportunities that will allow me to flourish as a scholar in this nursing program. Overall, I have an innate desire to pursue my academic goals in nursing, but as a mother of two, it wouldn’t be without great financial strain. I am a firm believer that "faith without works is dead", so I’m making it a priority to apply for financial assistance to make my dreams a reality. This dream is not for me, but for my children, to show them that nothing is out of their reach! One of my greatest accomplishments to date is when I was sworn in by the judge of Boone County Court in 2014. After completing 300 training hours, I was appointed by Boone County as a court-appointed special advocate (CASA) for abused and neglected children. It’s an honor when you are recognized for your commitment to the social welfare of children. With such a financial gain, I will be able to help underserved populations in the Saint Louis Metropolitan area. Upon completing nursing school, I plan to learn all I can about labor and delivery. Serving my community as well as fulfilling this personal goal are both obtainable if I am granted this scholarship. Being the first in my family to obtain an advanced degree will set a new precedent for my family. Thank you for your time and consideration.

My name is D’eidria Braxton. I am a graduate of the University of Missouri-Columbia, class of 2015. I received my BA in psychology with a minor in social work and a multicultural certificate. My career aspirations consist of acquiring an ADN nursing degree from Saint Louis Community College that will assist me in promoting black women in nursing within the community. I am writing to express my interest in the Christina Taylese Singh Memorial Scholarship. This award will be an initial step in furthering my education at STLCC. I would like to be considered for this scholarship because it will afford me a great opportunity to further my studies in nursing. It will also allow me to complete clinical hours and help to ease the financial burden of paying for nursing school. As a professional, this award will allow me to properly plan ahead for lectures, homework, and clinical hours. During my time as an undergraduate at the University of Missouri-Columbia, I worked thirty hours per week to fund my education and other living expenses. As a supervisor of Campus Dining Services, I acquired many skills that have helped me enormously in my personal and professional development. I have gained leadership skills, networking skills, and even coaching capabilities. Being a student employee has made me approachable, organized, and ambitious. Candidacy for this award is based on someone who has the skills, ambitions, and strength of a registered nurse; and that individual is me. I am emotionally intelligent, and resilient, and I have strong communication skills. I also have over ten years of experience in paid and unpaid opportunities that will allow me to flourish as a scholar in this nursing program. Overall, I have an innate desire to pursue my academic goals in nursing, but as a mother of two, it wouldn’t be without great financial strain. I am a firm believer that "faith without works is dead", so I’m making it a priority to apply for financial assistance to make my dreams a reality. This dream is not for me, but for my children, to show them that nothing is out of their reach! One of my greatest accomplishments to date is when I was sworn in by the judge of Boone County Court in 2014. After completing 300 training hours, I was appointed by Boone County as a court-appointed special advocate (CASA) for abused and neglected children. It’s an honor when you are recognized for your commitment to the social welfare of children. With such a financial gain, I will be able to help underserved populations in the Saint Louis Metropolitan area. Upon completing nursing school, I plan to learn all I can about labor and delivery. Serving my community as well as fulfilling this personal goal are both obtainable if I am granted this scholarship. Being the first in my family to obtain an advanced degree will set a new precedent for my family. Thank you for your time and consideration.

My name is D’eidria Braxton. I am a graduate of the University of Missouri-Columbia, class of 2015. I received my BA in psychology with a minor in social work and a multicultural certificate. My career aspirations consist of acquiring an ADN nursing degree from Saint Louis Community College that will assist me in promoting black women in nursing within the community. I am writing to express my interest in the Emma Jean Ridley Memorial Scholarship. This award will be an initial step in furthering my education at STLCC. I would like to be considered for this scholarship because it will afford me a great opportunity to further my studies in nursing. It will also allow me to complete clinical hours and help to ease the financial burden of paying for nursing school. As a professional, this award will allow me to properly plan for lectures, homework, and clinical hours. During my time as an undergraduate at the University of Missouri-Columbia, I worked thirty hours per week to fund my education and other living expenses. As a supervisor of Campus Dining Services, I acquired many skills that have helped me enormously in my personal and professional development. I have gained leadership skills, networking skills, and even coaching capabilities. Being a student employee has made me approachable, organized, and ambitious. Candidacy for this award is based on someone who has the skills, ambitions, and strength of a registered nurse; and that individual is me. I am emotionally intelligent, and resilient, and I have strong communication skills. I also have over ten years of experience in paid and unpaid opportunities that will allow me to flourish as a scholar in this nursing program. Overall, I have an innate desire to pursue my academic goals in nursing, but as a mother of two, it wouldn’t be without great financial strain. I am a firm believer that "faith without works is dead", so I’m making it a priority to apply for financial assistance to make my dreams a reality. This dream is not for me, but for my children, to show them that nothing is out of their reach! One of my greatest accomplishments to date is when I was sworn in by the judge of Boone County Court in 2014. After completing 300 training hours, I was appointed by Boone County as a court-appointed special advocate (CASA) for abused and neglected children. It’s an honor when you are recognized for your commitment to the social welfare of children. With such a financial gain, I will be able to help underserved populations in the Saint Louis Metropolitan area. Upon completing nursing school, I plan to learn all I can about labor and delivery. Serving my community as well as fulfilling this personal goal are both obtainable if I am granted this scholarship. Being the first in my family to obtain an advanced degree will set a new precedent for my family. Thank you for your time and consideration.

My name is D’eidria Braxton. I am a graduate of the University of Missouri-Columbia, class of 2015. I received my BA in psychology with a minor in social work and a multicultural certificate. My career aspirations consist of acquiring an ADN nursing degree from Saint Louis Community College that will assist me in promoting black women in nursing within the community. I am writing to express my interest in the Sara Jane Memorial Scholarship. This award will be an initial step in furthering my education at STLCC. I would like to be considered for this scholarship because it will afford me a great opportunity to further my studies in nursing. It will also allow me to complete clinical hours and help to ease the financial burden of paying for nursing school. As a professional, this award will allow me to properly plan for lectures, homework, and clinical hours. During my time as an undergraduate at the University of Missouri-Columbia, I worked thirty hours per week to fund my education and other living expenses. As a supervisor of Campus Dining Services, I acquired many skills that have helped me enormously in my personal and professional development. I have gained leadership skills, networking skills, and even coaching capabilities. Being a student employee has made me approachable, organized, and ambitious. Candidacy for this award is based on someone who has the skills, ambitions, and strength of a registered nurse; and that individual is me. I am emotionally intelligent, and resilient, and I have strong communication skills. I also have over ten years of experience in paid and unpaid opportunities that will allow me to flourish as a scholar in this nursing program. Overall, I have an innate desire to pursue my academic goals in nursing, but as a mother of two, it wouldn’t be without great financial strain. I am a firm believer that "faith without works is dead", so I’m making it a priority to apply for financial assistance to make my dreams a reality. This dream is not for me, but for my children, to show them that nothing is out of their reach! One of my greatest accomplishments to date is when I was sworn in by the judge of Boone County Court in 2014. After completing 300 training hours, I was appointed by Boone County as a court-appointed special advocate (CASA) for abused and neglected children. It’s an honor when you are recognized for your commitment to the social welfare of children. With such a financial gain, I will be able to help underserved populations in the Saint Louis Metropolitan area. Upon completing nursing school, I plan to learn all I can about labor and delivery. Serving my community as well as fulfilling this personal goal are both obtainable if I am granted this scholarship. Being the first in my family to obtain an advanced degree will set a new precedent for my family. Thank you for your time and consideration.

My name is D’eidria Braxton. I am a graduate of the University of Missouri-Columbia, class of 2015. I received my BA in psychology with a minor in social work and a multicultural certificate. My career aspirations consist of acquiring an ADN degree that will assist me in being the best nurse within my community. I am writing to express my interest in a scholarship from the Harvey and Geneva Mabry Second Time Around Scholarship. This award will be an initial step in furthering my education. I would like to be considered for this scholarship because it will afford me a great opportunity to further my studies in social work. It will also allow me to complete my field placement hours and help to ease the financial burden of paying for graduate school. As a professional student and mother, this award will allow me to properly plan for lectures, homework, and field placement hours. During my tenure as an undergraduate at the University of Missouri-Columbia, I worked thirty hours per week to fund my education and other living expenses. As a supervisor of Campus Dining Services-Baja Grill, I acquired many skills that have helped me enormously in my personal and professional development. I have gained leadership skills, networking skills, and even coaching capabilities. Being a student employee has made me approachable, organized, and ambitious. Candidacy for this award is based on someone who has the skills, ambitions, and strength of a social worker; and that individual is me. I am emotionally intelligent, and resilient, and I have strong communication skills. I also have over ten years of experience in paid and unpaid opportunities that will allow me to flourish as a scholar in this graduate program. Overall, I have an innate desire to pursue my academic goals in social work, but as a mother of two, it wouldn’t be without great financial strain. I am a firm believer that "faith without works is dead", so I’m making it a priority to apply for financial assistance to make my dreams a reality. This dream is not for me, but for my children, to show them that nothing is out of their reach! One of my greatest accomplishments to date is when I was sworn in by the judge of Boone County Court in 2014. After completing 300 training hours to become a court-appointed special advocate at Heart of Missouri, I was appointed by Boone County as a court-appointed special advocate (CASA) for abused and neglected children. It’s an honor when you are recognized for your commitment to the social welfare of children. If I can receive such a financial gain, I will be able to help underserved populations in the Saint Louis Metropolitan area. Upon completing the MSW program, my specialization will be policy, planning, and administration. Serving my community as well as fulfilling this personal goal are both obtainable if I am granted this scholarship. Being the first in my family to obtain an advanced degree will set a new precedent for my family. Thank you for your time and consideration

My name is D’eidria Braxton. I am a graduate of the University of Missouri-Columbia, class of 2015. I received my BA in psychology with a minor in social work and a multicultural certificate. My career aspirations consist of acquiring an ADN degree that will assist me in caring for and being of service within my community. I am writing to express my interest in a scholarship from the Dashanna K. McNeil Memorial Scholarship. This award will be an initial step in furthering my education in nursing. I would like to be considered for this scholarship because it will afford me a great opportunity to further my studies in social work. It will also allow me to complete my field placement hours and help to ease the financial burden of paying for graduate school. As a professional student and mother, this award will allow me to properly plan for lectures, homework, and field placement hours. During my tenure as an undergraduate at the University of Missouri-Columbia, I worked thirty hours per week to fund my education and other living expenses. As a supervisor of Campus Dining Services-Baja Grill, I acquired many skills that have helped me enormously in my personal and professional development. I have gained leadership skills, networking skills, and even coaching capabilities. Being a student employee has made me approachable, organized, and ambitious. Candidacy for this award is based on someone who has the skills, ambitions, and strength of a social worker; and that individual is me. I am emotionally intelligent, and resilient, and I have strong communication skills. I also have over ten years of experience in paid and unpaid opportunities that will allow me to flourish as a scholar in this graduate program. Overall, I have an innate desire to pursue my academic goals in social work, but as a mother of two, it wouldn’t be without great financial strain. I am a firm believer that "faith without works is dead", so I’m making it a priority to apply for financial assistance to make my dreams a reality. This dream is not for me, but for my children, to show them that nothing is out of their reach! One of my greatest accomplishments to date is when I was sworn in by the judge of Boone County Court in 2014. After completing 300 training hours to become a court-appointed special advocate at Heart of Missouri, I was appointed by Boone County as a court-appointed special advocate (CASA) for abused and neglected children. It’s an honor when you are recognized for your commitment to the social welfare of children. If I can receive such a financial gain, I will be able to help underserved populations in the Saint Louis Metropolitan area. Upon completing the MSW program, my specialization will be policy, planning, and administration. Serving my community as well as fulfilling this personal goal are both obtainable if I am granted this scholarship. Being the first in my family to obtain an advanced degree will set a new precedent for my family. Thank you for your time and consideration

My name is D’eidria Braxton. I am a graduate of the University of Missouri-Columbia, class of 2015. I received my BA in psychology with a minor in social work and a multicultural certificate. My career aspirations consist of acquiring a BSN degree that will assist me in promoting black women in nursing within the community. I am writing to express my interest in the scholarship. This award will be an initial step in furthering my education at STLCC. I would like to be considered for this scholarship because it will afford me a great opportunity to further my studies in nursing. It will also allow me to complete clinical hours and help to ease the financial burden of paying for nursing school. As a professional, this award will allow me to properly plan for lectures, homework, and clinical hours. During my time as an undergraduate at the University of Missouri-Columbia, I worked thirty hours per week to fund my education and other living expenses. As a supervisor of Campus Dining Services, I acquired many skills that have helped me enormously in my personal and professional development. I have gained leadership skills, networking skills, and even coaching capabilities. Being a student employee has shaped me to be very approachable, organized, and ambitious. Candidacy for this award is based on someone who has the skills, ambitions, and strength of a registered nurse; and that individual is me. I am emotionally intelligent, and resilient, and I have strong communication skills. I also have over ten years of experience in paid and unpaid opportunities that will allow me to flourish as a scholar in this nursing program. Overall, I have an innate desire to pursue my academic goals in nursing, but as a mother of two, it wouldn’t be without great financial strain. I am a firm believer that "faith without works is dead", so I’m making it a priority to apply for financial assistance to make my dreams a reality. This dream is not for me, but for my children, to show them that nothing is out of their reach! One of my greatest accomplishments to date is when I was sworn in by the judge of Boone County Court in 2014. After completing 300 training hours, I was appointed by Boone County as a court-appointed special advocate (CASA) for abused and neglected children. It’s an honor when you are recognized for your commitment to the social welfare of children. With such a financial gain, I will be able to help underserved populations in the Saint Louis Metropolitan area. Upon completing nursing school, I plan to learn all I can about labor and delivery. Serving my community as well as fulfilling this personal goal are both obtainable if I am granted this scholarship. Being the first in my family to obtain an advanced degree will set a new precedent for my family. Thank you for your time and consideration.

My name is D’eidria Braxton. I am a graduate of the University of Missouri-Columbia, class of 2015. I received my BA in psychology with a minor in social work and a multicultural certificate. My career aspirations consist of acquiring a BSN degree that will assist me in promoting black women in nursing within the community. I am writing to express my interest in the scholarship. This award will be an initial step in furthering my education at STLCC. I would like to be considered for this scholarship because it will afford me a great opportunity to further my studies in nursing. It will also allow me to complete clinical hours and help to ease the financial burden of paying for nursing school. As a professional, this award will allow me to properly plan for lectures, homework, and clinical hours. During my time as an undergraduate at the University of Missouri-Columbia, I worked thirty hours per week to fund my education and other living expenses. As a supervisor of Campus Dining Services, I acquired many skills that have helped me enormously in my personal and professional development. I have gained leadership skills, networking skills, and even coaching capabilities. Being a student employee has shaped me to be very approachable, organized, and ambitious. Candidacy for this award is based on someone who has the skills, ambitions, and strength of a registered nurse; and that individual is me. I am emotionally intelligent, and resilient, and I have strong communication skills. I also have over ten years of experience in paid and unpaid opportunities that will allow me to flourish as a scholar in this nursing program. Overall, I have an innate desire to pursue my academic goals in nursing, but as a mother of two, it wouldn’t be without great financial strain. I am a firm believer that "faith without works is dead", so I’m making it a priority to apply for financial assistance to make my dreams a reality. This dream is not for me, but for my children, to show them that nothing is out of their reach! One of my greatest accomplishments to date is when I was sworn in by the judge of Boone County Court in 2014. After completing 300 training hours, I was appointed by Boone County as a court-appointed special advocate (CASA) for abused and neglected children. It’s an honor when you are recognized for your commitment to the social welfare of children. With such a financial gain, I will be able to help underserved populations in the Saint Louis Metropolitan area. Upon completing nursing school, I plan to learn all I can about labor and delivery. Serving my community as well as fulfilling this personal goal are both obtainable if I am granted this scholarship. Being the first in my family to obtain an advanced degree will set a new precedent for my family. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Upon completing nursing school, I plan to learn all I can about labor and delivery. Serving my community as well as fulfilling this personal goal are both obtainable if I am granted this scholarship. Being the first in my family to obtain an advanced degree will set a new precedent for my family. Thank you for your time and consideration.

My name is D’eidria Braxton. I am a graduate of the University of Missouri-Columbia, class of 2015. I received my BA in psychology with a minor in social work and a multicultural certificate. My career aspirations consist of acquiring a BSN degree that will assist me in promoting black women in nursing within the community. I am writing to express my interest in the scholarship. This award will be an initial step in furthering my education at STLCC. I would like to be considered for this scholarship because it will afford me a great opportunity to further my studies in nursing. It will also allow me to complete clinical hours and help to ease the financial burden of paying for nursing school. As a professional, this award will allow me to properly plan for lectures, homework, and clinical hours. During my time as an undergraduate at the University of Missouri-Columbia, I worked thirty hours per week to fund my education and other living expenses. As a supervisor of Campus Dining Services, I acquired many skills that have helped me enormously in my personal and professional development. I have gained leadership skills, networking skills, and even coaching capabilities. Being a student employee has shaped me to be very approachable, organized, and ambitious. Candidacy for this award is based on someone who has the skills, ambitions, and strength of a registered nurse; and that individual is me. I am emotionally intelligent, and resilient, and I have strong communication skills. I also have over ten years of experience in paid and unpaid opportunities that will allow me to flourish as a scholar in this nursing program. Overall, I have an innate desire to pursue my academic goals in nursing, but as a mother of two, it wouldn’t be without great financial strain. I am a firm believer that "faith without works is dead", so I’m making it a priority to apply for financial assistance to make my dreams a reality. This dream is not for me, but for my children, to show them that nothing is out of their reach! One of my greatest accomplishments to date is when I was sworn in by the judge of Boone County Court in 2014. After completing 300 training hours, I was appointed by Boone County as a court-appointed special advocate (CASA) for abused and neglected children. It’s an honor when you are recognized for your commitment to the social welfare of children. With such a financial gain, I will be able to help underserved populations in the Saint Louis Metropolitan area. Upon completing nursing school, I plan to learn all I can about labor and delivery. Serving my community as well as fulfilling this personal goal are both obtainable if I am granted this scholarship. Being the first in my family to obtain an advanced degree will set a new precedent for my family. Thank you for your time and consideration.

My name is D’eidria Braxton. I am a graduate from the University of Missouri-Columbia, class of 2015. I received my BA in psychology with a minor in social work and a multicultural certificate. My career aspirations consist of acquiring a BSN degree that will assist me in promoting black women in nursing within community. I am writing to express my interest in scholarship. This award will be an initial step in furthering my education at STLCC. I would like to be considered for this scholarship because it will afford me a great opportunity to further my studies in nursing. It will also allow me to complete clinical hours and help to ease the financial burden of paying for nursing school. As a professional, this award will allow me to properly plan ahead for lectures, homework, and clinical hours. During my time as an undergraduate at the University of Missouri-Columbia, I worked thirty hours per week to fund my education and other living expenses. As a supervisor of Campus Dining Services, I acquired many skills that have helped me enormously in my personal and professional development. I have gained leadership skills, networking skills, and even coaching capabilities. Being a student employee has shaped me to be very approachable, organized, and ambitious. Candidacy for this award is based on someone who has the skills, the ambitions, and the strength of a registered nurse; and that individual is me. I am emotionally intelligent, resilient, and I have strong communication skills. I also have over ten years of experience in paid and unpaid opportunities that will allow me to flourish as a scholar in this nursing program. Overall, I have an innate desire to pursue my academic goals in nursing, but as a mother of two it wouldn’t be without great financial strain. I am a firm believer that "faith without works is dead", so I’m making it a priority to apply for financial assistance to make my dreams a reality. This dream is not for me, but for my children, to show them that nothing is out of their reach! One of my greatest accomplishments to date, is when I was sworn in by the judge of Boone County Court in 2014. After completing 300 training hours, I was appointed by Boone County as a court appointed special advocate (CASA) for abused and neglected children. It’s an honor when you are recognized for your commitment to the social welfare of children. With such a financial gain, I will be able to help underserved populations in the Saint Louis Metropolitan area. Upon completing nursing school, I plan to learn all I can about labor and delivery. Serving my community as well as fulfilling this personal goal are both obtainable if I am granted this scholarship. Being the first of my family to obtain an advanced degree will set a new precedent for my family. Thank you for your time and consideration.

My name is D’eidria Braxton. I am a graduate from the University of Missouri-Columbia, class of 2015. I received my BA in psychology with a minor in social work and a multicultural certificate. My career aspirations consist of acquiring a BSN degree that will assist me in promoting black women in nursing within community. I am writing to express my interest in scholarship. This award will be an initial step in furthering my education at STLCC. I would like to be considered for this scholarship because it will afford me a great opportunity to further my studies in nursing. It will also allow me to complete clinical hours and help to ease the financial burden of paying for nursing school. As a professional, this award will allow me to properly plan ahead for lectures, homework, and clinical hours. During my time as an undergraduate at the University of Missouri-Columbia, I worked thirty hours per week to fund my education and other living expenses. As a supervisor of Campus Dining Services, I acquired many skills that have helped me enormously in my personal and professional development. I have gained leadership skills, networking skills, and even coaching capabilities. Being a student employee has shaped me to be very approachable, organized, and ambitious. Candidacy for this award is based on someone who has the skills, the ambitions, and the strength of a registered nurse; and that individual is me. I am emotionally intelligent, resilient, and I have strong communication skills. I also have over ten years of experience in paid and unpaid opportunities that will allow me to flourish as a scholar in this nursing program. Overall, I have an innate desire to pursue my academic goals in nursing, but as a mother of two it wouldn’t be without great financial strain. I am a firm believer that "faith without works is dead", so I’m making it a priority to apply for financial assistance to make my dreams a reality. This dream is not for me, but for my children, to show them that nothing is out of their reach! One of my greatest accomplishments to date, is when I was sworn in by the judge of Boone County Court in 2014. After completing 300 training hours, I was appointed by Boone County as a court appointed special advocate (CASA) for abused and neglected children. It’s an honor when you are recognized for your commitment to the social welfare of children. With such a financial gain, I will be able to help underserved populations in the Saint Louis Metropolitan area. Upon completing nursing school, I plan to learn all I can about labor and delivery. Serving my community as well as fulfilling this personal goal are both obtainable if I am granted this scholarship. Being the first of my family to obtain an advanced degree will set a new precedent for my family. Thank you for your time and consideration.

My name is D’eidria Braxton. I am a graduate from the University of Missouri-Columbia, class of 2015. I received my BA in psychology with a minor in social work and a multicultural certificate. My career aspirations consist of acquiring a BSN degree that will assist me in promoting black women in nursing within community. I am writing to express my interest in scholarship. This award will be an initial step in furthering my education at STLCC. I would like to be considered for this scholarship because it will afford me a great opportunity to further my studies in nursing. It will also allow me to complete clinical hours and help to ease the financial burden of paying for nursing school. As a professional, this award will allow me to properly plan ahead for lectures, homework, and clinical hours. During my time as an undergraduate at the University of Missouri-Columbia, I worked thirty hours per week to fund my education and other living expenses. As a supervisor of Campus Dining Services, I acquired many skills that have helped me enormously in my personal and professional development. I have gained leadership skills, networking skills, and even coaching capabilities. Being a student employee has shaped me to be very approachable, organized, and ambitious. Candidacy for this award is based on someone who has the skills, the ambitions, and the strength of a registered nurse; and that individual is me. I am emotionally intelligent, resilient, and I have strong communication skills. I also have over ten years of experience in paid and unpaid opportunities that will allow me to flourish as a scholar in this nursing program. Overall, I have an innate desire to pursue my academic goals in nursing, but as a mother of two it wouldn’t be without great financial strain. I am a firm believer that "faith without works is dead", so I’m making it a priority to apply for financial assistance to make my dreams a reality. This dream is not for me, but for my children, to show them that nothing is out of their reach! One of my greatest accomplishments to date, is when I was sworn in by the judge of Boone County Court in 2014. After completing 300 training hours, I was appointed by Boone County as a court appointed special advocate (CASA) for abused and neglected children. It’s an honor when you are recognized for your commitment to the social welfare of children. With such a financial gain, I will be able to help underserved populations in the Saint Louis Metropolitan area. Upon completing nursing school, I plan to learn all I can about labor and delivery. Serving my community as well as fulfilling this personal goal are both obtainable if I am granted this scholarship. Being the first of my family to obtain an advanced degree will set a new precedent for my family. Thank you for your time and consideration.

My name is D’eidria Braxton. I am a graduate from the University of Missouri-Columbia, class of 2015. I received my BA in psychology with a minor in social work and a multicultural certificate. My career aspirations consist of acquiring a BSN degree that will assist me in promoting black women in nursing within community. I am writing to express my interest in scholarship. This award will be an initial step in furthering my education at STLCC. I would like to be considered for this scholarship because it will afford me a great opportunity to further my studies in nursing. It will also allow me to complete clinical hours and help to ease the financial burden of paying for nursing school. As a professional, this award will allow me to properly plan ahead for lectures, homework, and clinical hours. During my time as an undergraduate at the University of Missouri-Columbia, I worked thirty hours per week to fund my education and other living expenses. As a supervisor of Campus Dining Services, I acquired many skills that have helped me enormously in my personal and professional development. I have gained leadership skills, networking skills, and even coaching capabilities. Being a student employee has shaped me to be very approachable, organized, and ambitious. Candidacy for this award is based on someone who has the skills, the ambitions, and the strength of a registered nurse; and that individual is me. I am emotionally intelligent, resilient, and I have strong communication skills. I also have over ten years of experience in paid and unpaid opportunities that will allow me to flourish as a scholar in this nursing program. Overall, I have an innate desire to pursue my academic goals in nursing, but as a mother of two it wouldn’t be without great financial strain. I am a firm believer that "faith without works is dead", so I’m making it a priority to apply for financial assistance to make my dreams a reality. This dream is not for me, but for my children, to show them that nothing is out of their reach! One of my greatest accomplishments to date, is when I was sworn in by the judge of Boone County Court in 2014. After completing 300 training hours, I was appointed by Boone County as a court appointed special advocate (CASA) for abused and neglected children. It’s an honor when you are recognized for your commitment to the social welfare of children. With such a financial gain, I will be able to help underserved populations in the Saint Louis Metropolitan area. Upon completing nursing school, I plan to learn all I can about labor and delivery. Serving my community as well as fulfilling this personal goal are both obtainable if I am granted this scholarship. Being the first of my family to obtain an advanced degree will set a new precedent for my family. Thank you for your time and consideration.

My name is D’eidria Braxton. I am a graduate from the University of Missouri-Columbia, class of 2015. I received my BA in psychology with a minor in social work and a multicultural certificate. My career aspirations consist of acquiring a BSN degree that will assist me in promoting black women in nursing within community. I am writing to express my interest in scholarship. This award will be an initial step in furthering my education at STLCC. I would like to be considered for this scholarship because it will afford me a great opportunity to further my studies in nursing. It will also allow me to complete clinical hours and help to ease the financial burden of paying for nursing school. As a professional, this award will allow me to properly plan ahead for lectures, homework, and clinical hours. During my time as an undergraduate at the University of Missouri-Columbia, I worked thirty hours per week to fund my education and other living expenses. As a supervisor of Campus Dining Services, I acquired many skills that have helped me enormously in my personal and professional development. I have gained leadership skills, networking skills, and even coaching capabilities. Being a student employee has shaped me to be very approachable, organized, and ambitious. Candidacy for this award is based on someone who has the skills, the ambitions, and the strength of a registered nurse; and that individual is me. I am emotionally intelligent, resilient, and I have strong communication skills. I also have over ten years of experience in paid and unpaid opportunities that will allow me to flourish as a scholar in this nursing program. Overall, I have an innate desire to pursue my academic goals in nursing, but as a mother of two it wouldn’t be without great financial strain. I am a firm believer that "faith without works is dead", so I’m making it a priority to apply for financial assistance to make my dreams a reality. This dream is not for me, but for my children, to show them that nothing is out of their reach! One of my greatest accomplishments to date, is when I was sworn in by the judge of Boone County Court in 2014. After completing 300 training hours, I was appointed by Boone County as a court appointed special advocate (CASA) for abused and neglected children. It’s an honor when you are recognized for your commitment to the social welfare of children. With such a financial gain, I will be able to help underserved populations in the Saint Louis Metropolitan area. Upon completing nursing school, I plan to learn all I can about labor and delivery. Serving my community as well as fulfilling this personal goal are both obtainable if I am granted this scholarship. Being the first of my family to obtain an advanced degree will set a new precedent for my family. Thank you for your time and consideration.

My name is D’eidria Braxton. I am a graduate from the University of Missouri-Columbia, class of 2015. I received my BA in psychology with a minor in social work and a multicultural certificate. My career aspirations consist of acquiring a BSN degree that will assist me in promoting black women in nursing within community. I am writing to express my interest inscholarship. This award will be an initial step in furthering my education at STLCC. I would like to be considered for this scholarship because it will afford me a great opportunity to further my studies in nursing. It will also allow me to complete clinical hours and help to ease the financial burden of paying for nursing school. As a professional, this award will allow me to properly plan ahead for lectures, homework, and clinical hours. During my time as an undergraduate at the University of Missouri-Columbia, I worked thirty hours per week to fund my education and other living expenses. As a supervisor of Campus Dining Services, I acquired many skills that have helped me enormously in my personal and professional development. I have gained leadership skills, networking skills, and even coaching capabilities. Being a student employee has shaped me to be very approachable, organized, and ambitious. Candidacy for this award is based on someone who has the skills, the ambitions, and the strength of a registered nurse; and that individual is me. I am emotionally intelligent, resilient, and I have strong communication skills. I also have over ten years of experience in paid and unpaid opportunities that will allow me to flourish as a scholar in this nursing program. Overall, I have an innate desire to pursue my academic goals in nursing, but as a mother of two it wouldn’t be without great financial strain. I am a firm believer that "faith without works is dead", so I’m making it a priority to apply for financial assistance to make my dreams a reality. This dream is not for me, but for my children, to show them that nothing is out of their reach! One of my greatest accomplishments to date, is when I was sworn in by the judge of Boone County Court in 2014. After completing 300 training hours, I was appointed by Boone County as a court appointed special advocate (CASA) for abused and neglected children. It’s an honor when you are recognized for your commitment to the social welfare of children. With such a financial gain, I will be able to help underserved populations in the Saint Louis Metropolitan area. Upon completing nursing school, I plan to learn all I can about labor and delivery. Serving my community as well as fulfilling this personal goal are both obtainable if I am granted this scholarship. Being the first of my family to obtain an advanced degree will set a new precedent for my family. Thank you for your time and consideration.

I’ve battled and overcame several challenges during my adolescent years growing up in Saint Louis. Some of those challenges were living in a one-bedroom apartment with three others and maintaining good grades while caring for my siblings. Even as a young adult I always encouraged myself to strive for more. “Be the change you want to see” is one of the many affirmations I have told myself. Becoming a nurse is something I’ve dreamt of as a child and words cannot express the passion, I have for providing healthcare to underserved communities and families. I am so eager to apply for this scholarship. This essay will express my motivating factors in providing healthcare to underserved communities. Becoming a nurse has been a dream of mine since I began my college journey and has always been plan A since undergrad. But I and fear had known each other for so long that it was easy to have doubts about admissions, worthiness, financial doubts and more. Back in undergrad in 2010, fear won. I got my degree in psychology because I just didn’t believe I was cut out for nursing school. But here I am at 30 years old, a two-time first-generation college student, telling you that I do indeed have the intellectual ability, passion, and determination to become a nurse. Perfectionism and overthinking are a strength in my book. This program will afford me an academic scholarship, childcare assistance, educational resources, and job placement after completing the NCLEX. It’s kind of hard to believe that everything could be that simple. But nothing is simple, I worked hard to get where I am today and now it is time to start enjoying the fruits of my labor. Providing healthcare services to underserved individuals, families, communities, and groups will always hit close to home. I have I truly believe that working with underserved communities will help educate me on being a stay-at-home mother for about five years now. During that time, I’ve faced the journey of motherhood, postpartum, c-sections, COVID, quarantining, preschool, individualized education plans (IEPs), and more. My family had so much more love to give that we decided to foster. Being a foster parent taught me how to grow, learn, and love others no matter the circumstance. I truly believe that working with underserved communities will help educate me on the best ways to provide care for my patients. These last five years have been so life-changing and enriching that they pushed me back to school. I have completed all my nursing prerequisites with such exceptional scores that I have been awarded as a Dean’s List recipient and a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society at Saint Louis Community College. What I’m saying is the more I learn, the more my children will learn. I aim to be a role model for my children to reach for the stars and dream the biggest dream. If I keep going for the things I want, it’ll teach them to do the same. Being a team player and staying determined are two strong skills I possess that would make me a great recipient of this scholarship. I have acquired leadership, research, and training skills throughout my ten years of experience that make me a very well, suitable candidate for this scholarship.