People remember specific moments that changed their entire life, but for me, mine is a collection of moments of taking care of others and building up my confidence. When I first decided to be a nursing major I felt lost at first and doubtful, wondering if I can really do it. I’m sitting in classes impressed that all the other nursing students had hospital jobs and had experience in the healthcare field and I didn’t. I felt behind and I was. My first clinical in a hospital, I showed up and got yelled at in the first 5 minutes of being there. The nurse was mad at me because I looked lost and I didn’t know what I was doing. She even told my clinical instructor and she came and talked to me, as she spoke I felt a rush of panic as i tried to hold back all my tears. I felt so embarrassed because nobody else was getting yelled at, everybody looked like they knew what they were doing. After that, the nurse came back to me and told me that I needed to learn my role, and those words stuck with me that entire day. After that day was over with, I drove in my car and thought to myself I do need to learn my role or I will just continue to make people upset. So I went home and did some research on patient tech jobs near me and found one for student nurse tech. I thought this could be an amazing opportunity for me to be able to grow and learn in my field. Starting off a patient tech I was so nervous they orientated me and I mentioned that it was first hospital job and everybody there showed me grace. They said let me know if i’m overwhelming you, or if you have any questions. I felt good about being there being able to learn and fully understand a patient tech role. When i finally got off of orientation I felt so great, I was taking care of my patients, making sure their needs were met, and I even got to make conversation with a lot of them. Looking back at all of my moments that lead me to here, I realized I have learned more than just how to navigate through a hospital. I learned that I really wanted to become a nurse. Although I was new at the healthcare profession and that can be super intimidating, everybody has to start somewhere. Although my experience with being new was rocky, it taught me the kind of nurse i want to be. I want to be a nurse who is patient, caring, understanding, and knowing that my patients may be experiencing something new in their life so I have to show them grace when they don’t fully understand what is happening. Also I want to inspire other nursing students that they can believe in theirselves even when they are experiencing something new, the healthcare field is a field to grow in.

There are two things that I love in this world, math and puzzles. Math is like a puzzle to me, because you’re having to look at the problem from different angles until all the pieces fit in the correct spot. What I enjoy the most about math is the process of working through a problem step-by-step, and discovering how different concepts connect together. One thing that I love the most about math is that it helps me with critical thinking especially in nursing with dosage calculation. I like doing complicated dosage calculations because I get a thrill from using my brain to solve a complex problem. When I make a mistake, I learn by trying a different approach, and for me I feel accomplished when I do this because it’s so amazing when I can be struggling with such a difficult problem and then something in my brain clicks and I’m able to find the right solution. Math has also taught me the importance of never giving up. Not every problem can be solved immediately, sometimes different problems need different approaches because not just one approach works. So I have learned that instead of giving up I have to be able to keep trying until I find that method that does work and this has helped me beyond the classroom as well. Although a lot of people see math as a subject with numbers, I see it as a way to challenge my mind and strengthen the way I think. Math pushes me beyond my limits and it helps me to grow and that’s why I love math with all my heart.

A lot of people have hobbies that they can talk about for hours, but my hobby makes people raise their eyebrows. I have always been fascinated by criminal psychology, criminal investigations, and understanding why people make choices under pressure. My friends spend a lot of their free time watching reality TV or scrolling through social media, but I find myself watching body camera footage, listening to different criminal psychology videos on YouTube, or reading about the psychological factors that influence behavior. This interest sometimes leads to awkward moments, because i get so excited when I get to share about a criminal justice topic, and not everybody wants to hear about a police investigation or criminal psychology during everyday conversation. Sometimes I’m in the car and I just blurt out about, a criminal psychology YouTube video i watched, a body camera footage that I had seen, or just sharing about different things about the criminal justice system. My friends and family have learned that if I find a criminal justice video/documentary or if a criminal justice topic comes up I am going to have something to say about it. What makes this interest meaningful to me is that it’s not about the crime itself, instead, I am so interested in people. Criminal psychology has taught me that behavior is so complex, and that every person‘s actions are influenced by their own experiences, circumstances, and decisions. Learning about these factors has helped me become more open-minded, and less likely to make quick judgments on other individuals, my curiosity has also helped me develop important skills. I have became such an observer. An example of this is when my family and I were out for breakfast and they were talking to each other and I was just observing my surroundings. My mom pointed this out and said that “I am such an observer.” Then my sister asked me what the table to the left of us had ordered to drink and what color they were. I turned my head to her and said, “The man had a purple drink, and the woman had a green drink.” Then after that i started saying what the surrounding tables around us had ordered. They were so shocked that I was able to do that. My interest in criminal psychology has strengthened my critical thinking skills have strengthened as well, this has encouraged me to consider multiple perspectives before I form my own opinion. Instead of just accepting the first explanation I like to hear, examine the facts, and understand the bigger picture. This interest connects to my future goal as well, I’m currently a nursing student, and I want to be able to take care of patients from many different backgrounds in life experiences. Some may have experienced trauma, violence, addiction, or other different circumstances. My interest in criminal psychology has taught me the importance of empathy and understanding, and knowing that every person deserves to be treated with dignity respect, regardless of their situation. Although my fascination with criminal psychology may seem unusual and can be awkward at times, it really has shaped who I am in a positive way. It’s made me more curious, analytical, and way more compassionate as well. What started as an interest in understanding criminal behavior has ultimately became a passion for me and understanding how people think and why they choose the choices that they choose. Although this is not a common hobby it is one that’s helped me grow and prepare for my future.

Growing up, I never knew what I wanted to do when I was older. I would always change my mind and I never had a clear picture of what my career path would look like. That changed during my senior year of high school. During my senior high school I had needed one more class in order to graduate and it could’ve been any class and I had decided to go with biomedical science. In this class I got to learn a lot about the human body, and we were tasked with a final project where we were going to present to a group of individuals about anything healthcare related. I have decided to go with the effects of antipsychotics on the memory of geriatrics. This was inspired by my grandma who at the time was in a nursing home, and she was on a bunch of antipsychotics. As I continue to work on my project throughout the school year, my grandma had gotten ill just a month before I was supposed to present my presentation. She had gotten sepsis from a prolonged UTI that was untreated, and she was admitted to the ICU. At this time, I was in a lot of distraught because I had this project that I was so excited to share with my grandma and now she was in critical care. When I would visit my grandma I would see the nurses take care of her and also a while I was there they were emotional support for my family and they also helped my family understand what was happening to my grandma and what steps they were doing to make sure that she was going to be okay. This level of care really left a lasting impression on me. This was so inspiring to me. My grandma ended up getting a little bit better but not back to her normal state so they ended up putting her on hospice at this time. I would visit my grandma a lot because she was just down the street from me so it was so easy just to see her, and the nurse that was taking care of her during this was so amazing. I will never forget him because he just made her time more enjoyable, and he was so caring and thoughtful. Also, he was so compassionate with my family as well and I found this so inspiring. Although my grandma had passed in late April and she wasn’t there to see my final project nor was she there to see me graduate. I still appreciate the nurses that were there taking care of her during her hardest times. These nurses really inspired me to want to go into healthcare, because they were changing peoples lives and that’s something that I wanted to be a part of as well. So afterwards, I ended up getting a job as a caregiver and I loved being a caregiver. It was so fun being around the people who I was looking after and I had a lot of memorable moments with each individual. I learned a lot about the importance of being an active listener and making sure that I show each individual compassion. I am currently in nursing school and I always make it a commitment to be as compassionate as possible. The experiences that I have had shaped my understanding of what quality care means, and I am determined to make a meaningful impact in the lives of my future patients and their families as well.

Passion for nursing developed an unexpected time in my life. During my senior year of high school, my grandma became ill and she passed away from caused by an untreated UTI. Having to see her in the hospital that made me realize that healthcare was something that I was really interested in. I saw how the nurses showed her compassion, they were attentive, and they supported her through her most vulnerable moments. As I continued, my education, my interest in nursing had expanded. I was taking a course called biomedical science, and we were required to conduct a research project. I focused my research project on the effects of antipsychotic medication on memory in geriatric patients. Direct this project I found how much that I enjoyed learning about the human body, recovery, and just the way the nurses can help improve life through care. This had made me research different types of specialties of nursing, and I found a love and orthopedics in sports medicine. I was really drawn to this type of specialty because I used to be an athlete for seven years, and it was more focused on restoring strength and independence in a patient. I felt like orthopedic and sports medicine nurses play a huge role and helping patients recover from their injuries, surgeries, and their chronic conditions. I want to be a part of a patient’s journey from when they’re injured to recovery to me, this is a meaningful and rewarding process. Throughout my career as a nurse, I hope to gain strong, clinical skills, more confidence, and patient education, and a lot more experience in collaboration. Knowing that orthopedic and sports medicine nurses have to closely monitor their patients, come up with effective pain management, use patient motivation, and clearly communicate with physical therapist, physicians, and families. These skills are skills. I am eager to learn to develop. In the specialty, I hope to make a huge impact with patient centered care that is prioritizing a patient’s safety, mobility, and dignity. I want to be the type of nurse who encourages patients during your difficult recovery, noticing setbacks early on, and advocating for appropriate interventions, whether that’s working with athletes returning to their sports or patients who are wanting to gain basic mobility after surgery, I want to be able to support either one of them through physical healing and emotional resilience. My passion for nursing all came from my grandma, sadly my grandma have passed gone April 28, 2023 before I got the chance to tell her about my research project, and my inspiration for nursing. My grandma truly has inspired me to pursue degree that she chose compassion, advocacy, and overall just being there for a patient just like the nurses were there for her during her most vulnerable moments.

My name is Dyamond Jackson, and yes you read that right Dyamond with a “y”. I think of myself just like a diamond, i am rare, resilient, and sometimes i’m hard to crack, but once someone gets to know me they see that i shine the brightest when i am helping others. Basically to sum me up i’m the type of person who will quietly panic on the inside, but i will still hold your hand and reassure you while you get a flu shot. Currently I am a pre-nursing student at Park University. My nursing journey began with my grandmother. Her health began to decline when she was diagnosed with Alzheimer's and schizophrenia. A few years after her diagnosis, my grandmother was admitted to a nursing home, where I would come and visit her from time to time to check up on her. Although my grandma had slowly forgotten who I was, I was there by her side no matter what. While she was in the nursing home, she had developed a urinary tract infection that went untreated, and it eventually became sepsis. I had to watch my grandma suffer in ways that broke my heart. Having to see her on breathing machines was the toughest thing I had to see. I would leave visiting her in tears and hysterical because this was my grandma, and I wanted her to get better, but sadly, it didn't end like that. My grandma ended up passing 4 days before my birthday. This loss left a lasting mark on me. After my grandmother's passing, I was still in high school, and I was taking a class called Biomedical Science. We were required to complete a research project on a medical issue. Due to my grandmother being diagnosed with schizophrenia, she was on a lot of antipsychotic drugs. So I did my research project on the effects of antipsychotic medications on the memory of geriatrics. I dedicated my whole project to her, and I also got to share her experience. For myself, nursing isn't just about providing treatment to patients; it's also about building trust and making the patients feel seen. I want to be able to care for my patients and make sure to do that in an honorable way. I will always show my patients the care and compassion that I have always shown my grandma, because I want every patient to feel seen or heard during their most vulnerable moments. My long-term goal is to leave a positive impact on the healthcare system. I want to advocate for better healthcare awareness and education with it comes to conditions that affect the elderly, such as Alzheimer's and preventable complications like sepsis. As I continue my journey through nursing I want to use my kindness and bravery to make a difference for my patients. My grandmothers story has inspired me to always provide care that brings comfort and hope.

Heartbreak doesn't always come from romance; it can come from giving everything to someone and still feeling like too much and not enough at the same time. I remember one night, standing in my kitchen, numb. The silence was louder than my thoughts. He had left without warning, and I was left trying to piece together what I had done wrong. Like SZA sings in "Kitchen," "Dancing and kissing, the kitchen/ makes me forget, I forgive him." That line hits hards. Because forgiving him was easier than facing how broken I felt inside. I didn't always have the words to explain the ache, and I didn't feel like I had a space to ask for help. Therapy felt too expensive. Friends were tired of the same story. I thought maybe I just needed to get over it. But the truth is, emotional pain doesn't vanish. It lingers, and the fact that mental health care is often out of reach for people like me, young, overwhelmed, heartbroken, made me realize how much needs to change. As a future nurse, I want to bring mental health support into everyday healthcare spaces, especially for people who don't know how to ask. I want to normalize check-ins, make space for emotion, and push for affordable counseling resources within schools. Because everyone has their "kitchen" moments, those nights when pain shows up uninvited. I want to be the reason someone doesn't have to face them alone

In the future, I aspire to become a nurse with a focus on either geriatrics, pediatrics, or orthopedics. Each of these specialties speaks to me in a unique way, and I am driven by a deep desire to provide compassionate care to those who need it the most. Whether it’s caring for the elderly, supporting children through challenging times, or assisting those recovering from orthopedic injuries, my goal is to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Nursing is not just about tending to physical needs but offering emotional support, alleviating pain, and providing reassurance during vulnerable moments. I believe these qualities define great nursing care, and I am committed to embodying them in my professional life. A major motivator in my journey toward becoming a nurse is my personal experience with my grandmother, who passed away from sepsis and dementia. Watching her decline, and seeing how her condition affected our family, deeply impacted me. I saw firsthand the physical and emotional toll such illnesses can take on both patients and their loved ones. I want to be the kind of nurse who can provide care to people like my grandmother and offer families the support and guidance they need during such difficult times. Her struggle made me realize the importance of compassionate, patient-centered care, and it has shaped my desire to specialize in areas like geriatrics, where I can help individuals like her and their families navigate the challenges of aging and illness. One of the core reasons I chose nursing as my career path is my passion for giving back to my community. Growing up, I saw firsthand the power of healthcare and the profound impact it can have on an individual’s quality of life. Whether it was a local nurse helping a family member through a difficult illness or healthcare professionals coming together to provide care in times of crisis, I witnessed how deeply people rely on the healthcare system. I want to be a part of that system and help those who need care the most. Giving back to my community in this way is my way of contributing to the greater good, and I hope to make a difference not just in individual lives but in the community as a whole. I also understand the importance of making a meaningful impact on today’s society. Our healthcare system is more important than ever, especially as it faces challenges such as an aging population and the ongoing need for quality pediatric care. By becoming a nurse, I plan to contribute to addressing these challenges, offering care that is not only technical but also humanistic. As a nurse, I want to advocate for those who might not have a voice, ensuring that vulnerable populations—whether they are children, the elderly, or those struggling with mobility—receive the best care possible. It is this dedication to service that fuels my desire to pursue a career in healthcare. However, pursuing my nursing degree is not without its challenges. Currently, I am paying for my schooling out of pocket, which means I am working 50+ hours a week while also taking a full course load of 17 credit hours. The stress of balancing work and school is often overwhelming, but I am committed to my education and my future. This scholarship would significantly reduce the financial strain I am currently facing. It would allow me to focus more on my studies, improve my academic performance, and reduce the number of hours I need to work. By easing the financial burden, this scholarship would bring me one step closer to my dreams.

Throughout my time in school, I've often found that my mental health significantly impacts both my academic performance and personal life. There have been many days when I've felt incredibly alone, battling with thoughts of not being good enough. That sense of inadequacy often made it difficult to keep up with my studies, and it left me feeling disconnected from friends and family. The loneliness wasn’t just from being by myself physically, but more from the emotional distance I felt, as if I couldn’t measure up to the expectations others (and I) had for myself. Procrastination became a way of coping. I would put off assignments, telling myself I would get to them later, but deep down, I was avoiding the overwhelming sense of failure that seemed to follow me everywhere. When I did finally try to tackle a project, I often found myself stuck, unable to focus, or consumed by the fear that my work wouldn’t be good enough. The longer I put things off, the more behind I fell, and the deeper the feeling of being inadequate grew. I began to spiral into a cycle of guilt and stress, which only worsened my mental health. This cycle also impacted my personal life. I would isolate myself, feeling like I didn’t deserve to be around others or that I would just bring them down with my negativity. At times, I felt like I was carrying this weight alone, and it seemed easier to withdraw rather than explain what I was going through. Over time, I’ve learned that acknowledging these struggles is key. The first step was admitting that it was okay to not be okay. I started by setting smaller, more manageable goals instead of trying to tackle everything at once. That helped reduce the overwhelming pressure I often felt. I also began reaching out for support, whether it was talking to a counselor, confiding in friends, or simply allowing myself time to relax without feeling guilty. Another step that’s made a big difference is working on shifting my mindset. I try to remind myself that my worth isn't tied to my academic success or how productive I am. Learning to challenge the self-critical thoughts that feed my depression has been a long process, but it’s been essential in breaking the cycle of feeling not good enough. Making mental health a priority hasn't been easy, but by finding small ways to improve my routine and mindset, I’ve been able to manage the balance between my well-being and academic responsibilities more effectively. And while it’s still a struggle sometimes, I’ve learned that taking care of myself is not just important—it's necessary for my success both in school and in life.

Overcoming or working through a mental health challenge is never easy, and for me, the journey has been long and filled with both setbacks and small victories. One of the most significant challenges I've faced is stemming from trauma I endured as a child, and it continues to impact my life in various ways. At a young age, of 8 and 12 I experienced sexual assault, that left deep emotional scars. These events have led to a range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and hyper sexuality. When I first began to confront the reality of what had happened to me, it was overwhelming. The emotional burden of trauma, mixed with feelings of shame, guilt, and confusion, made it hard for me to even acknowledge how deeply I had been affected. I would often isolate myself because I feared being judged, misunderstood, or even blamed for the things that had happened to me. It felt safer to keep everything inside rather than risk opening up to others, but I came to realize that doing so only worsened my anxiety and depression. Slowly, I began taking steps to work through my mental health challenges. I sought professional help from therapists who specialize in trauma and sexual abuse. Therapy provided me with tools to understand my emotions, behaviors, and how my past experiences were influencing my current state of mind. Learning to talk about what happened, and unpacking the trauma in a safe environment, was one of the first steps toward healing. Additionally, I’ve worked to cultivate self-compassion. It’s been a difficult process, but I try to remind myself daily that I am not defined by the abuse I suffered. I am not my trauma. Slowly, I’ve started to forgive myself for things I once blamed myself for, and I’ve learned to accept that my path to healing is not linear. Some days are harder than others, and that’s okay. As for supporting others and generating awareness for mental health challenges moving forward, I recognize that sharing my story can be a powerful tool for both my own healing and for helping others who may be silently struggling. I want to make sure that those who experience mental health challenges—especially trauma survivors—know they are not alone. I plan to raise awareness by speaking openly about my experiences and encouraging others to share their stories too. One of the things I’ve learned is that the stigma around mental health and trauma is often what keeps people trapped in silence. By being vulnerable and open about my struggles, I hope to help dismantle that stigma and create a space where people feel safe to talk about their own mental health challenges without fear of judgment. Moving forward, I want to support others by actively participating in conversations about mental health, volunteering with organizations that support survivors of abuse, and advocating for better resources and services for those in need. I believe that by connecting with others, sharing experiences, and offering compassion, we can build a stronger, more supportive community where mental health challenges are acknowledged, understood, and treated with the care they deserve. Through all of this, I know that healing is a journey—not a destination. But with each step, I am learning more about myself, becoming stronger, and working toward a future where I can help others face their own challenges and find hope.

I’ve chosen to pursue a career in nursing, specifically in geriatrics, because of the profound impact my grandmother had on my life and the heartbreaking journey I shared with her during her battle with dementia and sepsis. My grandmother was my world. She wasn’t just a grandmother to me; she was my guide, my protector, my source of comfort. Watching her decline, struggling with confusion and physical pain, was a devastating experience that broke my heart in ways I never expected. But it also ignited something deep within me—a calling to care for others in the way I had always longed to care for her. The pain of seeing someone you love slip away, unable to recognize you or even take a breath on their own, is indescribable. It’s a loss you feel in every part of your being, and it made me realize how much the elderly, especially those with dementia or severe illness, need not just medical care, but human compassion. I saw my grandmother’s dignity being stripped away, and the isolation that came with her illness crushed me. I wanted to be there for her in the way she had always been there for me—unconditionally, with love, patience, and respect. During my time working as a caregiver for elderly patients, I saw the same struggles in so many others. I learned that many seniors are treated as “cases” or conditions, rather than people. Their pain, confusion, and fears often go unnoticed or unaddressed. I want to change that. I want to be the nurse who sees more than just a diagnosis, who connects with each patient on a deeply human level, and who makes sure they feel seen, heard, and valued in their most vulnerable moments. What drives me in this pursuit is not just a professional desire to help but a deeply personal one. The lessons I learned from my grandmother—how to love unconditionally, how to be patient and empathetic, how to find strength in the most difficult circumstances—are what I want to bring to my nursing practice. Every time I saw my grandmother’s pain or confusion, I wished I could do more, that I could somehow ease her suffering. That same desire to ease the suffering of others, especially those who are often forgotten or overlooked, is what fuels my passion for geriatric nursing. I want to specialize in dementia care, a field that is close to my heart because of my grandmother’s struggle with Alzheimer’s. Her journey with dementia was heartbreaking, but it also gave me a sense of purpose. I want to help others who are living with Alzheimer’s and similar conditions—providing not just care, but understanding. I want to educate families who are navigating the overwhelming challenges of caregiving, offering them resources, compassion, and the support they need. It’s not just about making the elderly comfortable; it’s about offering them dignity, preserving their humanity even when their memories begin to fade.

I faced one of the hardest challenges I have ever known—watching my grandmother, a person who had been a constant source of love and wisdom, slowly fade away due to dementia and sepsis. It was a devastating experience to witness someone who had always been so strong and vibrant lose her sense of self. The sight of her struggling to breathe on a ventilator, unable to recognize anyone she once knew, broke my heart in ways I couldn’t fully express. It was during this time, in the depths of my sorrow and confusion, that I turned to my faith for strength and guidance. I felt utterly powerless. No matter how much I wished to change the situation, I couldn’t. My grandmother’s suffering seemed beyond my ability to comfort, and the more I tried to make things better, the more I realized that some things were out of my control. The grief was overwhelming, and I kept questioning why this had to happen. Why my grandmother? Why such pain? In these moments of anguish, I turned to God, trusting that He could give me the strength to endure, even when everything around me seemed hopeless. One Bible verse that comforted me during this time was Psalm 34:18: “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” This verse became a lifeline for me. It reminded me that, even though I felt crushed by the weight of the situation, God was near. He was close to me in my heartbreak, and His love surrounded me even in my darkest moments. Though I couldn’t see how things would work out, I trusted that God’s presence would help me through it. Alongside this verse, I turned to prayer. Sometimes my prayers were simple, just words of surrender. I didn’t always know what to say, but I knew that God understood my pain. One prayer that I found myself repeating often was, “God, I don’t know what to do, but I trust You. Please give me the strength to get through this, and help my grandmother feel Your peace.” This became my way of releasing the anxiety I felt, of surrendering my helplessness to God. I realized that while I couldn’t change the outcome, I could choose to trust in His plan, even when I couldn’t understand it. Isaiah 41:10 also spoke to me during this difficult time: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” The pain of watching my grandmother’s decline was intense, but in moments of despair, I found comfort in knowing that God was with me, offering strength to help me endure. I couldn’t carry the burden on my own, but God promised to uphold me, and in that promise, I found the strength to keep going. When my grandmother passed away, the grief was crushing, but I also felt an overwhelming peace. I knew that she was no longer suffering, and that thought brought me comfort. I found solace in the words of John 14:27: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” Even in my sorrow, God’s peace enveloped me, and I began to heal. It was my faith in God that carried me through my grief, reminding me that, even in the darkest times, I am never alone.

Success, to me, is not defined by accolades or personal milestones. It is found in the moments when I can truly make a difference in another person’s life. It’s in the quiet, meaningful connections with others—when I offer not just medical expertise, but a deep well of compassion, patience, and kindness. Success is when I can ease someone’s pain, help them feel understood, and remind them that they are not alone. It’s in the small acts of care, whether it’s a reassuring touch or a listening ear, that make someone’s journey through illness or hardship a little bit more bearable. My definition of success is rooted in service—knowing that I’ve brought comfort, dignity, and hope to someone who needed it. Nursing, for me, is not just a profession—it is a calling, one that was born from my personal experiences, most notably the loss of my grandmother. My grandmother was the person who shaped so much of who I am today. She was not only a grandmother but a pillar of love and wisdom in my life. The bond we shared was unbreakable, and when she fell ill with dementia and sepsis, my world was shaken to its core. Watching her fight for every breath, struggling with a mind that once was so sharp but slowly faded away, was a pain I will never forget. It was in those heartbreaking moments of helplessness, when I couldn’t save her or take away her suffering, that I realized the kind of nurse I want to become. I want to be the kind of nurse who doesn’t just care for the physical body but who nurtures the spirit as well. I want to be the one who gives patients not only the medical care they need but the emotional support that is so often overlooked. My grandmother’s death, painful as it was, became the catalyst for my decision to pursue nursing. She inspired me to devote my life to giving others the kind of care and love that she so deeply deserved in her final days. But it was also through the grief of losing her that I realized just how much more I wanted to do for the elderly, for those facing the challenges of aging and dementia. I want to be the nurse who provides not just care but companionship, a presence that can help patients feel seen, heard, and valued during one of the most vulnerable times of their lives. As I worked as a caregiver, I began to see just how much patients with Alzheimer’s and dementia struggle on a daily basis. I had the opportunity to participate in an Alzheimer’s simulation, an experience that left a profound emotional impact on me. Through the simulation, I gained firsthand insight into the disorientation, frustration, and fear that those with dementia experience. I couldn’t help but think of my grandmother as I navigated through the simulation, and I found myself overwhelmed with empathy. The emotional toll of that experience reinforced my desire to focus on geriatric care, particularly in dementia patients, and to ensure that those who struggle with cognitive decline are treated with the dignity, respect, and love they deserve. This experience further fueled my determination to pursue a career where I can make a difference in the lives of elderly patients, offering them more than just medical care but emotional support, understanding, and genuine compassion. Becoming a geriatric nurse has become my deepest aspiration. I want to be the nurse who not only provides clinical care but also takes the time to connect with patients, to understand their emotional and psychological needs. I want to offer comfort to those who may feel isolated or forgotten, helping them navigate the emotional and physical challenges that come with aging and illness. Through this path, I hope to help ease the fears and frustrations that come with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and other age-related conditions, offering patients a sense of dignity, peace, and reassurance. For me, success isn’t about personal recognition; it’s about knowing I’ve made a lasting difference in someone’s life. It’s about being the nurse who provides comfort, who listens when others have no words, and who treats every patient with the love and dignity they deserve. Success, in its purest form, is found in the moments when a patient looks at you and feels a sense of peace, even in the midst of their pain. That’s the kind of success I strive for. In the end, the legacy I want to leave is one of kindness, empathy, and service. I want to be the nurse who makes a patient’s life just a little bit easier, a little bit brighter, and a little bit more hopeful.

In April 2023, I experienced a loss that forever changed me—the passing of my beloved grandmother. She was not only a grandmother but a guiding light in my life, someone I shared an incredibly close bond with. Watching her slowly slip away from sepsis and dementia was the hardest thing I’ve ever gone through. The image of her on a ventilator, struggling to breathe on her own, is something I will never forget. Seeing her fight for every breath, knowing there was nothing I could do to help, shattered my heart. Her decline was not just a loss of her physical presence, but a loss of the woman who had always been there for me, the one who had taught me so much about love, strength, and resilience. It was painful, watching her fade away, knowing that she would never again be the woman I had known and adored. But even in her final days, her quiet strength inspired me. Her experience ignited something in me—a passion for helping others, especially the elderly who face the same struggles she did. In the midst of my grief, I realized that I wanted to honor her memory by becoming a nurse, to give others the care, compassion, and dignity that she so richly deserved. During my time working as a caregiver, I had the opportunity to participate in an Alzheimer’s simulation. It was an experience that profoundly affected me. As I moved through the simulation, I was immersed in the confusion, the fear, and the frustration that people with Alzheimer’s and dementia experience daily. In those moments, I truly began to understand the isolation they feel, and it broke my heart. It was a reminder of how much more I wanted to do—not just for my grandmother, but for all those who live with conditions that take away their sense of self. It was this experience, coupled with my grandmother’s journey, that inspired me to focus my research on how antipsychotic medications impact the memory of geriatric patients. I want to make a difference, to ensure that future patients are treated with the care and respect they deserve, even when their minds begin to fail them. This scholarship will give me the opportunity to continue my education and pursue a nursing career with a focus on geriatrics. I want to be the nurse who listens when others are too tired to speak, who understands the pain of losing a loved one, and who provides care that not only addresses physical needs but offers emotional support to both patients and their families. I want to give back to my community by becoming a source of comfort and understanding for those who are walking the difficult path of aging and illness. In addition to my nursing career, I believe in the power of hobbies like philately to open young people’s minds and hearts to the world. Although my focus is on caregiving, I think it’s important to encourage young people to explore interests that teach them patience, history, and empathy. I would encourage young people to get involved by discovering the stories behind stamps, finding joy in the collection, and connecting with others who share the same passion. Losing my grandmother gave me a deep sense of purpose, rooted in the love and care she always showed me. This scholarship will help me honor her by becoming the nurse she would have been proud of—someone who listens, understands, and strives to bring comfort and compassion to others, just as she did for me every day.

Hi, my name is Dyamond Jackson, and I am a sophomore at Park University pursuing a nursing degree. My journey into nursing is deeply personal and driven by a desire to make a meaningful difference in people's lives. Throughout my life, I have experienced various challenges and hardships that have shaped my character and my ambition to help others. I believe that nursing is not just a profession; it’s a calling that allows me to combine my passion for healthcare with my commitment to serving others. As I progress in my studies, my ultimate goal is to become an orthopedic nurse, with the aspiration of eventually transitioning to a role in sports medicine. I am particularly drawn to orthopedics because it allows me to assist patients in recovering their mobility and returning to the activities they love. Helping individuals regain their strength and functionality is incredibly fulfilling, and I am excited about the potential to work with athletes and active individuals to support their health and well-being. My experience as a caregiver has played a significant role in shaping my perspective on patient care. While working in this capacity, I participated in an Alzheimer’s simulation that profoundly impacted me. The simulation allowed me to experience firsthand the confusion and frustration that individuals with dementia often face. It evoked deep emotions within me and reinforced the importance of empathy in nursing. I learned that being a nurse is about more than just providing medical care; it’s about understanding the emotional and psychological needs of patients and their families during some of the most challenging times of their lives. Currently, I work as a medication technician, where I have the opportunity to help patients manage their medications and support their recovery journeys. This role has been incredibly rewarding, as I take great joy in helping others reintegrate into society and regain their independence. Each day, I witness the resilience of my patients and the impact that compassionate care can have on their lives. This experience has further solidified my commitment to pursuing a nursing career, as I strive to be a source of support and encouragement for those in need. A significant motivating factor in my pursuit of nursing is my grandmother, who passed away after battling dementia and sepsis. Her struggle highlighted the importance of compassionate care in healthcare, and it inspired me to advocate for patients who may not be able to speak for themselves. I want to ensure that all patients receive the dignity and respect they deserve, especially those who are vulnerable and marginalized in the healthcare system. Additionally, my mother has been a tremendous source of support throughout my journey. She has always encouraged me to pursue my dreams, even when times were tough. Her strength and resilience, especially during our family's challenges, have instilled in me the belief that perseverance and hard work can lead to meaningful change. Her encouragement has motivated me to overcome obstacles and strive for excellence in my education and future career. Through my nursing career, I hope to create a positive impact on the world by advocating for my patients, providing compassionate care, and promoting health and wellness within my community. I am committed to lifelong learning and staying current with advancements in healthcare to ensure that I provide the best possible care to those I serve. I believe that every small act of kindness can make a significant difference in someone’s life, and I am eager to be a part of that change.

As I look towards my future as a nurse, I am filled with a sense of purpose and clarity about the kind of healthcare professional I want to become. My journey has been shaped by personal experiences, academic pursuits, and hands-on roles that have solidified my commitment to nursing. I envision myself as a compassionate advocate for my patients, especially those who are vulnerable and in need of support. The lessons I learned from caring for my grandmother, conducting research on geriatric medications, and working as a caregiver and a medication technician all contribute to my desire to make a meaningful impact in healthcare. Growing up, I faced significant challenges, including financial struggles and family issues stemming from my parents' divorce. When my parents separated, I faced the difficult decision of having to step up to the plate and take care of my sibling. This was difficult for me because I was only 14 years old. My mother had left with my older sister, leaving me with my two younger siblings. Living with my father was so difficult for me because he would never make enough money to be able to provide for me and my siblings, nor was he ever at home. So I would find ways to make sure my siblings and I had money to have food, whether that was making money off of doing surveys on my phone or finding spare change around the house. This situation taught me the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity, which is the driving force in my life. I learned early on that education could be my pathway to a better future, and I have to work hard to pursue my academic goals, even when the odds are stacked against me. Witnessing my grandmother's struggle with dementia and sepsis influenced my pathway toward nursing. It was tough to see her health decline, and the emotional toll it took on our family was immense. During this time, I learned how crucial empathy and understanding are in nursing. I realized that nursing is not just about medical procedures; it's about providing compassionate care and emotional support to patients and their families during some of their most challenging moments. My grandmother's experiences inspired me to advocate for patients, ensuring they receive the dignity and care they deserve throughout their healthcare journey. Academically, my passion for nursing deepened when I engaged in a research project on the effects of antipsychotic medications on the memory of geriatric patients. This project allowed me to explore the complexities of medication management and how different medications can significantly impact the elderly. I became more aware of the importance of tailoring treatment plans to meet patients' individual needs. This research reinforced my desire to work with older adults and underscored the need for nurses to understand the pharmacological aspects of patient care. Additionally, my experience as a caregiver has been incredibly impactful in shaping my vision for nursing. In this role, I participated in an Alzheimer's simulation that provided me with a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by individuals living with dementia. The simulation was emotional and eye-opening; it allowed me to experience many patients' confusion and frustration. This experience helped me realize that effective nursing requires patience, compassion, and the ability to connect with patients on an emotional level. I want to approach patient care with empathy, understanding the unique struggles each faces. Currently, I work as a medication technician, where I help patients manage their medications and support their recovery. This role has reinforced my passion for nursing and shown me the importance of building trusting relationships with patients. I find great satisfaction in assisting individuals on their journeys to regain their independence and reintegrate into society. Each interaction with my patients strengthens my commitment to nursing and solidifies my vision of being a compassionate caregiver. As a sophomore at Park University, I am preparing to apply to nursing school this spring semester. I am eager to further my education and expand my skills. Looking ahead, I aspire to specialize in orthopedics and eventually transition into sports medicine. I have always been drawn to the physical aspects of health and how movement and mobility can significantly affect a person's quality of life. By focusing on orthopedics, I can help patients regain their strength and functionality, enabling them to return to the activities they love. I am particularly excited about the opportunity to work with athletes and active individuals, providing them with the care and support they need to recover from injuries and maintain their physical health. As I envision my future in nursing, I am committed to continuing to learn and grow in my field. I want to stay current with advancements in healthcare and seek opportunities for professional development. My goal is to be a nurse who not only advocates for patients but also contributes to improving healthcare practices and policies. I aim to make a meaningful impact on the lives of my patients, drawing from my personal experiences and professional training to provide the highest quality of care. Overall, my vision as a nurse is centered on empathy, compassion, and a dedication to helping others. My journey has taught me that effective healthcare involves understanding the emotional and physical needs of patients. As I move forward in my nursing career, I am excited to embrace the challenges and rewards ahead, driven by my passion for making a difference in the lives of those I serve.

My academic journey has been anything but straightforward, filled with personal experiences that have shaped my path and led me to pursue a career in nursing. Before starting college, I had in my mind that I wanted to be a criminal justice major, I was drawn to the field because I had a strong desire to help others and make a difference in my community. However, it wasn't long before my focus shifted dramatically due to some tragic events that had happened in my life. The biggest change for me was when my grandmother had passed. She was struggling with dementia and later developed sepsis. Having to watch her health decline was heartbreaking, and it made me feel powerless. I realized that I wanted to be more than just a bystander, I wanted to participate in the healthcare field actively. As I watched my grandmother battle for her life, I became aware of the critical role that nurses play in patient care. Their compassion and dedication inspired me, and I started to see nursing as a path where I could truly impact individuals and families during some of their most vulnerable moments. My new interest in healthcare was solidified when I took my biomedical class. In this course, I conducted research on the effects of antipsychotic medications on the memory of geriatric patients. This project opened my eyes to the complexities of medical treatment and the importance of understanding how different medications can affect elderly individuals. I found myself intrigued by the idea of improving patient outcomes through careful assessment and tailored care strategies. The experience reinforced my desire to pursue nursing, as it combines my interests in science and research with the opportunity to make a direct difference in patients' lives. Another significant influence on my decision to switch to nursing was my mother. She returned to school at the age of 34 and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree at the age of 36. She demonstrated incredible resilience and determination. Her journey taught me that it's never too late to pursue your passions and that education can be a powerful tool for change. Watching her balance family responsibilities and studying inspired me to pursue my educational goals, even when they felt daunting. Her support has been instrumental in my journey, reminding me that hard work and perseverance pay off. Ultimately, my "aha" moment came when I realized that nursing was the perfect blend of my interests and values. The experience with my grandmother, my biomedical research, and my mother's inspiring example all helped to guide me toward this decision. I understood that nursing would allow me to advocate for vulnerable patients, provide compassionate care, and make a meaningful impact in their lives. As I prepare to embark on my nursing career, I feel a deep sense of purpose and motivation. I am excited about the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, and I am committed to using my experiences to provide high-quality care. My journey has taught me that education is not just about earning a degree; it is about finding your passion and using that passion to make a difference.

I often reflect on the woman who shaped my world in unexpected ways. With her warm smile and twinkling eyes, my grandmother was the beacon of warmth and love in my life, but dementia slowly stole her memories and her essence. I witnessed her vibrant soul begin to decline. My grandmother was diagnosed with dementia. My family thought it was best to put her in a nursing home. For the first couple of years, she was thriving, although she would forget me at times, she was still her vibrant self, but that all changed 2 years ago. Her dementia got worse, and she also had an untreated UTI which led to her getting sepsis. She went to the hospital as soon as possible and I had to watch her be hooked up to the ventilator. This broke my heart, my grandma who was once radiant and the center of attention turned gloomy and was fighting for her life. A couple of days later my grandma was released from the hospital and sent to a memory care center, where she was placed on the hospice level. When she first arrived I visited her with my mother, and she didn't look like herself. She looked like she was suffering, depressed, and tired. I felt sympathy for my grandma, and I was trying my best to lift her spirits, by talking to her. Our conversation consisted of who I was, and how I grew up so fast. Although my grandma had select memories of me, it was good to know that she remembered some things about me. I knew my grandma wasn't doing the best physically but to be there for her was all I could do. I didn't want my grandma to feel like no one cared about so I made sure to visit her as much as I could. Seeing my grandma like this inspired me to pursue a career in nursing, specifically for geriatric patients in nursing homes. Although I face criticism for my career choice, I believe that I will make a huge impact in the geriatric field. I want to make a change to how people see the geriatric community, I want others to see them as people who have changed the world, and not just as weak individuals. Also, I want to provide comfort to the geriatric community, because some of them don't have family or their family don't visit them as often, which leads them to feel alone and develop other mental health issues. My grandma had sadly passed away on April 28, 2023. Although it was hard for my family and me to comprehend my grandma's passing I knew that her time had come. Despite the pain of watching her slip away, I found comfort in being there for her, providing her comfort and companionship in her darkest hours. As I am in my sophomore year at Park University, I am excited for the opportunities that lie ahead. I hope to further my understanding of how to support the geriatric community. My main objective is to continue to learn and grow while balancing my studies and work commitments. I'm passionate about making a positive impact on the lives of those who need assistance the most. Although I am at the beginning of my journey I am confident that my dedication, empathy, and willingness to learn will enable me to make a meaningful difference in the geriatric community. I'm excited to see where my future takes me and how I can positively impact the lives of those along the way.

I often reflect on the woman who shaped my world in unexpected ways. With her warm smile and twinkling eyes, my grandmother was the beacon of warmth and love in my life, but dementia slowly stole her memories and her essence. I witnessed her vibrant soul begin to decline. My grandmother was diagnosed with dementia a few years ago. My family thought it was best to put her in a nursing home. For the first couple of years, she was thriving, although she would forget me at times, she was still her vibrant self, but that all changed 2 years ago. Her dementia got worse, and she also had an untreated UTI which led to her getting sepsis. She went to the hospital as soon as possible and I had to watch her be hooked up to the ventilator. This broke my heart, my grandma who was once radiant and the center of attention turned gloomy and was fighting for her life. A couple of days later my grandma was released from the hospital and sent to a memory care center, where she was placed on the hospice level. When she first arrived I visited her with my mother, and she didn't look like herself. She looked like she was suffering, depressed, and tired. I felt sympathy for my grandma, and I was trying my best to lift her spirits, by talking to her. Our conversation consisted of who I was, and how I grew up so fast. Although my grandma had select memories of me, it was good to know that she remembered some things about me. I knew my grandma wasn't doing the best physically but to be there for her was all I could do. I didn't want my grandma to feel like no one cared about so I made sure to visit her as much as I could. During my senior year of high school, I had taken a PLTW class called Biomedical Science. This class required each individual to do a research project where they would choose to create a research design or create a project and try to make a change for a problem. I decided to do my research project on the effects of antipsychotics on geriatric memory. I decided to pursue this research because my grandma was prescribed drugs like Ativan, Sertraline, Lasix, and multivitamins. I found through my research that many nursing homes give their patients drugs such as antipsychotics and benzodiazepines for their convenience. I wanted to raise awareness of this because it's not fair to the geriatric community. Geriatric patients don't understand that drugs have severe side effects if taken in large doses. I presented all of my research to judges, and they believed that if I continued my research then I would make a huge impact in the medical field. This inspired me to pursue a career in nursing, specifically for geriatric patients in nursing homes. Although I face criticism for my career choice, I believe that I will make a huge impact in the geriatric field. I want to make a change to how people see the geriatric community, I want others to see them as people who have changed the world, and not just as weak individuals. Also, I want to provide comfort to the geriatric community, because some of them don't have family or their family don't visit them as often, which leads them to feel alone and develop other mental health issues. My grandma had sadly passed away on April 28, 2023. Although it was hard for my family and me to comprehend my grandma's passing I knew that her time had come. My grandma was my biggest inspiration, she was a successful businesswoman, a loving wife, a sister, a daughter, and a delightful grandma. She was the inspiration for my research project and she inspired me to pursue a career in the medical field. Despite the pain of watching her slip away, I found comfort in being there for her, providing her comfort and companionship in her darkest hours. 7 months after her passing, I realized that I wanted to help others whose parents/grandparents suffer from Alzheimer's, dementia, and Parkinson's. I applied for a caregiver job at a company called Senior Helpers. At Senior Helpers, their main objective was to help those who suffer from Alzheimer's, dementia, Parkinson's, and many other life-changing diseases. The job required each of their employees to go through an Alzheimer's simulator. This meant that we all had to experience what a person with Alzheimer's disease goes through. We had to put these insoles in our shoes, we put on headphones that played loud street noises, and we put on glasses that affected our vision. It was an eye-opener. I never realized that it was that scary. During the simulation, I felt fear and confusion, and I felt like I wanted to curl up in a ball and hide away. I tried to self-soothe myself but the loud noises kept on distracting me. Although the simulation lasted for 15 minutes, it felt like the hardest 15 minutes of my life. I felt empathy for those who suffer from dementia or Alzheimer's because people don't realize how hard it is for them. During my time working at this company, I was able to change a lot of people's lives. I saw how many of my elderly patients felt alone because they didn't have much family, and they felt a sense of comfort when I was around. I was able to build a bond with many of my patients, we would laugh, watch TV, do activities, cook, and enjoy each other's company. Although I had to leave my job due to the stress of school, work, and my personal life I still enjoyed doing it. I enjoyed being able to change the lives of many and to help others not feel lonely. As I go into my sophomore year at Park University, I am excited for the opportunities that lie ahead. I hope to further my understanding of how to support the geriatric community. My main objective is to continue to learn and grow while balancing my studies and work commitments. I'm passionate about making a positive impact on the lives of those who need assistance the most, and I am determined to find a job that aligns with my schedule. Whether that is working as a caregiver, home health aide, or geriatric nurse, I know whatever career I choose will be the right fit for me. Although I am at the beginning of my journey I am confident that my dedication, empathy, and willingness to learn will enable me to make a meaningful difference in the geriatric community. I'm excited to see where my future takes me and how I can positively impact the lives of those along the way.

As a child, I grew up around sports. My older sister played basketball, and I always wanted to be like her because she was an inspiration to me. When I was in the 5th grade I was put in a basketball church league. I enjoyed doing this because it made me realize that I enjoy teamwork, communicating with my teammates, and especially winning. After the league concluded I stopped playing basketball for a year, it wasn't until my 7th grade year when I tried out for my middle school basketball team. I ended up being on the C-team and I was discouraged by this, but I didn't let that stop me from improving my skills. I trained extra hard, but I experienced my first injury, a sprained ankle. I sprained my ankle when I was running in PE, and the pain was unbearable. I had to limp my way to the nurse's office to get ice. The nurse was very nice to me, she made sure that I was comfortable and even offered to help me get back to class. Her kindness had struck my interest in caring for others. As I returned to class, I was in pain for the rest of the school day, but I still had basketball practice after school. Once the final bell rang I limped to the locker room and got changed. Then I had to see the athletic trainer. While he was examining my ankle he was making sure that he was gentle with me and made sure that I wasn't in pain. His caring and compassionate traits made me feel safe and comfortable. After my recovery from my sprained ankle, I thanked both the nurse and the athletic trainer. From that day on, I never forgot how they took good care of me when I was injured. These two sparked my interest in becoming a sports medicine nurse. I have always wanted to care for others, and with my work background as a caregiver, I found a love for helping those in need. I want to become a sports medicine nurse because I love healthcare and sports. I want to learn more about injuries, how to help athletes recover, what food is best for them, and how exercise affects their bodies. Although I will be working in a hospital or a clinic I can also help athletes outside of the medical setting. I plan on teaching athletes ways to keep them healthy and avoid injuries, I want to work with local sports groups and give free-check ups to those who might not have access to healthcare, I'll volunteer with youth sports teams to ensure that kids are not only having fun while they play but also that they understand that safety is important. Lastly, I will research better ways to treat sport-related injuries and different ways to help athletes perform their best. Combining my love for helping others and my love for sports I believe that I will make a positive impact on the athletic community and my community in general.

Imagine your childhood shattered by the echoing screams of your mother, the chilling sound of fists meeting walls, and the haunting memory of your father's rage. My story begins with a father who wasn't a protector but a predator, a man whose violence stained every moment of my life. Let me share with you a tale not of fantasy, but of a harsh reality that some endure every day. My father's rage not only contained words but manifested into physical force, pinning down the woman who once loved him. She would plea for help, but no one answered her calls. His uncontrollable rage was a force that didn't discriminate, not only did he strike my mother but he would hit me and my siblings, leaving scars both seen and unseen. We would scream and tell him to stop, but our voices were silenced as he would punish us even more. One particular day changed my life forever. It was on New Year's Day when my parents decided to go to a party that their friends hosted. My siblings and I were downstairs playing the video game when they arrived home. They were intoxicated and my mother decided to take my father's phone. This enraged my father, he began to chase her around the house. My mother didn't think my father was angry, so she was running around the house giggling. It wasn't until my father had trapped my mother in the bathroom and began beating on her. My mother cried for her help, and my older sister answered her pleas by calling the police on him. This made my mom fearful, and she gathered everyone in the car and drove to the nearest gas station. While I was in the backseat I could hear my mother crying and my father crying. He was not crying because he felt bad for my mother, but only because he feared going to jail. I took a glimpse at my mother's face and she was unrecognizable. She had knots on her forehead and her face was bruised up. After this incident, my mother took my older sister and moved out. During this time it was hard for me because my father would cry to me and he would try to convince me that my mother didn't love me and that he was the only one who cared, but I never felt like he loved me. He would bring multiple women through our house, he disregarded my siblings and my well-being as well. He would neglect to feed us, putting his desires over our basic needs, even extending his care for other people's children while neglecting his own. I spent almost two years there before I decided I couldn't take it anymore and I left with my two younger siblings. We decided to go live with our mother and it felt like I was free. I knew that my mother would take care of us and she proved me right. As an African American woman who has witnessed the devastation of domestic abuse within my household, I am deeply committed to empowering and supporting those who find themselves trapped in similar situations. There are unique challenges that African American women face when seeking to escape abusive relationships, this includes systemic barriers and cultural stigmas. Although I am a nursing major, I aim to incorporate care that not only addresses the physical wounds but also attends to the emotional and psychological scars inflicted by abuse. I want to partner with community organizations, to advocate for policy change, and foster a safe and inclusive space for healing.

Growing up I didn't have a lot of friends, and people wouldn't go out of their way to greet me or acknowledge my existence. I was always talked about, made fun of, and even left out. During high school, I did have a hard time keeping friends, because I didn't fit in. I was quiet and focused on my studies. After graduating I knew that I wanted to attend Park University, it was close to my house and it was going to be a good opportunity to meet people. That time came around last August when I went to freshman orientation. During this time I didn't know anyone, but I went out of my way to greet some people, but none of them wanted to continue having a conversation with me. This made me feel discouraged and scared for when school. After that day I didn't have high expectations for meeting any new friends at Park University, but I was still optimistic. A couple of days later it was the first day of school. In my English course, we had to write on notecards and introduce ourselves to at least 3 others. The first person I introduced myself to was a girl named Kim. Kim was so polite and listened to me when I was speaking. She even asked questions about myself. I didn't know if she was just being polite at the moment because we had to talk to other people or if was she doing it because she wanted to become my friend. To my surprise, Kim had made an effort to continue to talk to me every day. She had greeted me in the morning and she would ask about my day. We eventually exchanged social media and phone numbers and we began to talk to each other. I even invited her to one of my family events. Kim's kindness to me was life-changing. She has changed my perspective on people in society, and she has shown me that there are kind people. In the past, I may have dealt with some hardships when making friends, but Kim's willingness to become my friend has given me hope. To this day Kim and I are best friends. We talk every day and we hang out a lot. She has been there for me through heartbreaks and family issues, and she always encourages me to become a better person. Although Kim is heading back home to South Africa for the summer I know that we will stay in touch until the school semester begins. I am very grateful that our paths crossed because I don't know what I would do without her.

Imagine a world where every child's smile is brighter, every giggle is contagious, and every step of care is filled with compassion. My passion for choosing nursing was inspired by my mom. She is a nurse and I look up to her, due to her hardworking ethic, her passion for her job, and how dedicated she is to progress in her career. Also seeing how hard nurses have to work is an incredible thing. People don't understand that becoming a nurse is one of the most rewarding jobs out there. They get to build bonds with their patients and they even get to help others who can't help themselves. These are some of the reasons why I have chosen to pursue a career in nursing. Choosing to become a pediatric nurse wasn't my initial choice, to begin with, I had always thought I would be good at working as a registered nurse at a hospital, but I realized that wasn't what I wanted to do. Being undecided on what type of nursing career to pursue was difficult for me, I had felt like becoming a nurse wasn't meant for me if I couldn't pick what type of nurse I wanted to become. I did a lot of thinking and I realized I had a passion for working with children. My experience with working with children began in high school when I would go to the local elementary school and I would tutor kids. The kids that I tutored loved me, every day that I would come for their tutoring sessions they would surround me and they always asked for me to help them or sit by them. These moments made me grow compassion for younger children, I enjoyed seeing their bright smiles, their laughter, and the joy that they brought. I also took a class in high school called Child Development Two, in this course we went on a field trip and observed children. This was fascinating to me because I was able to see how children interact with each other. Moments like this made me realize that I could become a pediatric nurse. The idea of becoming a pediatric nurse is life-changing for me, I would be able to pursue a career that I am passionate about and also enjoy what I am doing. I would also be helping the future generation and I will be able to help families hopefully each small gesture of care shapes their child's future and touches their hearts.

My decision to become a nursing student wasn't easy. At first, I believed I wanted to pursue a career in criminal justice. I had always loved the police system and was so fascinated by it. It wasn't until my senior year of high school that my counselor offered me a college course called Biomedical Science. I wasn't sure about this class, but I decided to do it. At first, I was scared to take this class because there was a class that you had to take before taking this class. I was afraid that I would be behind my classmates, but that wasn't the case. I ended up enjoying learning about the human body, and I even received my certified clinical medical assistant certification. Towards the end of the class, we had to come up with a project to share with other people who are in the medical field. My project was based on the effects of antihistamines, anticoagulants, and benzodiazepines on the memory of geriatrics. Overall many of the judges enjoyed my research and they told me to continue my research because the idea was intriguing. The project sparked my interest in working in the nursing field to help geriatrics. I decided that I wanted to try to work in the medical field, so I applied to become a caregiver. At first, I was terrified because I didn't have any experience in the caregiving field, but my company trained me and made sure that I felt comfortable enough to take care of people on my own. My first patient was an elderly man and his wife. I enjoyed working with them, they made sure I was comfortable around them and they even kept conversation with me. The next patient I took care of was an elderly lady who was in a rehab facility, she had dislocated her hip while I was working with her. She ended up having to go to the hospital, and I had to go also because her family wasn't planning on staying with her. As I was at the hospital with her family, I built a bond with them and the elderly lady I was looking after. Although she was non-verbal, she still made me laugh and I felt like we got along well. Her family requested me to watch her for the rest of the time she would be at the rehab facility. Watching these two elderly patients sparked my interest in becoming a geriatric nurse because I found enjoyment in taking care of those who are vulnerable.

A Journey Towards Mental Health Awareness Mental health has always been a cornerstone in my life. From an early age, I realized its importance yet, unfortunately, it was also subjected to its brutality. My upbringing took its toll on my mental wellbeing, primarily due to my father's abusive demeanor that cast a dark shadow over my family life. An incident where I was violated in my sleep only exacerbated my distress. The overall torment was so acute that there were fragments of time when suicidal thoughts clouded my mind. I felt a terrifying sense of isolation, the feeling of being trapped in quicksand with no one to give a helping hand. Despite the arduous environment, the vulnerabilities did not blind me to my aspirations or hinder my academic pursuits. I have always been dedicated to my studies, reflected through maintaining my GPA high, an impressive 3.6 both in high school and now college. I am currently pursuing Nursing at Park University, a field I chose due to its roots in empathy, compassion, understanding, serving others – qualities that seemed lacking in my early life, but I strive to embody moving forward. However, breaking away from negativity and launching myself into the realm of positivity was not a lone journey. I am beyond grateful for the wonderful individuals I met during this difficult trajectory who lent me their ears and hearts. They normalized my feelings, helped me seek professional help, and fostered an environment conducive to my emotional treatment. The evolution of my mental health from childhood to adolescence depicts a story of endurance, resilience, and triumph, rising from the ashes like a phoenix—mightier and braver. My personal experiences have shaped a stronger version of me – a woman of color, belonging to Black, White, and Hispanic races. It instilled a deep understanding and empathy within me for those who grapple with similar issues. It ignited a passion for becoming a mental health advocate, especially within my diverse community, where cultural stigmas often interfere with the recognition and treatment of mental health disorders. As a Nursing major, my aim is to not only physically heal people but also empathetically care and educate individuals and their families about mental health. I want to use my own experiences as a testament that it is okay to ask for help, that mental health issues are real and legitimate, and no one should have to suffer alone or in silence. The very scholarship I am applying for represents values I fiercely advocate for – reaching out, extending a hand, nurturing, helping, and promoting post-traumatic growth. My past has greatly influenced my present, shaping my ambitions and the trajectory of my future. By applying for the Elijah's Helping Hand Scholarship Award, I get the chance to further my education, develop into a more proficient nurse, and continue my journey as a mental health advocate. I am a true believer that adversities produce great strength. I stand here today, not as a victim of my past, but a victor. The hardships I faced were indeed challenging and affected my mental health significantly. Nonetheless, they turned out to be stepping stones, ultimately leading me to become the woman I am today – resilient, empathetic, and committed not only to my healing but also to aiding others embarking on a similar journey. And I believe that makes me a worthy candidate for this scholarship.