As a registered nurse, my journey has been profoundly shaped by my experiences, but the real driving force behind my dedication and resilience comes from my five children. They are my daily motivation, reminding me of the importance of hard work, love, and determination. Being a single parent, particularly after losing my children’s father to heart failure, has instilled in me a level of consistency, patience, and sacrifice that few can understand. Every decision I make revolves around their well-being, and while this responsibility brings immense joy, it has also presented unique challenges that have tested my limits. There have been many moments when guilt, doubt, and anxiety threatened to overwhelm me. I often found myself questioning whether I was doing enough for my children or even for myself. Throughout these struggles, I realized that I could not allow myself to crumble. I had a vision for our future, a dream that involved pursuing my education and creating a better life for my family. Fueled by determination, I returned to school, determined to achieve a dream that too often felt out of reach. In 2023, I proudly graduated from Drexel University with a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing. The memory of walking across that stage, with my children cheering me on, is forever etched into my heart. Their smiles were a reminder that my achievement was not just a personal victory. It represented everything we had worked for, a testament to what can be accomplished through perseverance and commitment. Watching them celebrate my success reinforced my resolve to continue striving for excellence, not only for my own sake but for them as well. Nursing embodies the principle of lifelong learning, and I have wholeheartedly embraced this idea. The profession demands a reflective and proactive mindset, which I have made a cornerstone of my career. Every experience and piece of knowledge I acquire enriches my capabilities and enhances my ability to provide meaningful care to my patients. Continuous education is not merely a requirement for me; it is a vital commitment in the ever-evolving healthcare landscape. In doing so, I have been accepted to La Salle University’s Wound Ostomy Continence Nursing Program. Upon completion of this program and obtaining my national certification, my goal is to transition into a WOC nurse role at the VA Medical Center. I am highly motivated and dedicated to expanding my skills and adapting to meet the demands of this field for the benefit of my patients and my community. Looking ahead, my goals extend beyond personal improvement. I want to impart upon my children the immense value of education and hard work. I want them to recognize that obstacles can be overcome, that some sacrifice is necessary, and that chasing one’s dreams is always worth the effort. Each challenging day serves as a reminder that we are capable of great things, and I strive to show them this reality daily. Maya Angelou once said, “You may encounter defeats, but you must not be defeated.” This sentiment fuels my spirit as I navigate life’s challenges. Having the inspiration and drive to pursue goals is essential; it keeps my mind and spirit positive as I continue to grow. Yes, obstacles will come, but it is our inspiration that carries us forward, encouraging us to keep pushing ahead. I will continue to rise, not just for myself, but for my children, embodying the lessons I wish to impart.

As a nurse, my journey has been profoundly shaped by my experiences, however the driving force behind my dedication and resilience comes from my children. They remind me of the importance of hard work, love, and determination. Being a single parent, particularly after losing my children’s father to heart failure, has instilled in me a level of consistency, patience, and sacrifice. Every decision I make revolves around their well-being, and while this responsibility brings immense joy, it has also presented unique challenges that have tested my limits. There have been moments when guilt and anxiety overwhelm me. Throughout these struggles, I realized that I couldn't allow myself to crumble. I had a vision for our future, a dream that involved pursuing my education and creating a better life for my family. Fueled by determination, I returned to school, determined to achieve a dream that too often felt out of reach. In 2023, I graduated from Drexel University with a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing. The memory of walking across that stage, with my children cheering me on, is forever etched into my heart. Their smiles represented everything we had worked for, a testament to what can be accomplished through perseverance and commitment. Watching them celebrate my success reinforced my resolve to continue striving for excellence, not only for my own sake but for them as well Nursing embodies the principle of lifelong learning, and I have wholeheartedly embraced this idea. It demands a reflective and proactive mindset, which I have made a cornerstone of my career. Continuous education is not merely a requirement for me; it is a vital commitment in the ever-evolving healthcare landscape. I am dedicated to expanding my skills and adapting to meet the demands of this field for the benefit of my patients and my community.

As a registered nurse, my journey has been profoundly shaped by my experiences, but the real driving force behind my dedication and resilience comes from my five children. They are my daily motivation, reminding me of the importance of hard work, love, and determination. Being a single parent, particularly after losing my children’s father to heart failure, has instilled in me a level of consistency, patience, and sacrifice that few can understand. Every decision I make revolves around their well-being, and while this responsibility brings immense joy, it has also presented unique challenges that have tested my limits. There have been many moments when guilt, doubt, and anxiety threatened to overwhelm me. I often found myself questioning whether I was doing enough for my children or even for myself. Throughout these struggles, I realized that I could not allow myself to crumble. I had a vision for our future, a dream that involved pursuing my education and creating a better life for my family. Fueled by determination, I returned to school, determined to achieve a dream that too often felt out of reach. In 2023, I proudly graduated from Drexel University with a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing. The memory of walking across that stage, with my children cheering me on, is forever etched into my heart. Their smiles were a reminder that my achievement was not just a personal victory. It represented everything we had worked for, a testament to what can be accomplished through perseverance and commitment. Watching them celebrate my success reinforced my resolve to continue striving for excellence, not only for my own sake but for them as well. Nursing embodies the principle of lifelong learning, and I have wholeheartedly embraced this idea. The profession demands a reflective and proactive mindset, which I have made a cornerstone of my career. Every experience and piece of knowledge I acquire enriches my capabilities and enhances my ability to provide meaningful care to my patients. Continuous education is not merely a requirement for me; it is a vital commitment in the ever-evolving healthcare landscape. In doing so, I have been accepted to La Salle University’s Wound Ostomy Continence Nursing Program. I am dedicated to expanding my skills and adapting to meet the demands of this field for the benefit of my patients and my community. Looking ahead, my goals extend beyond personal improvement. I want to impart upon my children the immense value of education and hard work. I want them to recognize that obstacles can be overcome, that some sacrifice is necessary, and that chasing one’s dreams is always worth the effort. Each challenging day serves as a reminder that we are capable of great things, and I strive to show them this reality daily. Maya Angelou once said, “You may encounter defeats, but you must not be defeated.” This sentiment fuels my spirit as I navigate life’s challenges. Having the inspiration and drive to pursue goals is essential; it keeps my mind and spirit positive as I continue to grow. Yes, obstacles will come, but it is our inspiration that carries us forward, encouraging us to keep pushing ahead. I will continue to rise, not just for myself, but for my children, embodying the lessons I wish to impart.

As a registered nurse, my journey has been profoundly shaped by my experiences, but the real driving force behind my dedication and resilience comes from my five children. They are my daily motivation, reminding me of the importance of hard work, love, and determination. Being a single parent, particularly after losing my children’s father to heart failure, has instilled in me a level of consistency, patience, and sacrifice that few can understand. Every decision I make revolves around their well-being, and while this responsibility brings immense joy, it has also presented unique challenges that have tested my limits. There have been many moments when guilt, doubt, and anxiety threatened to overwhelm me. I often found myself questioning whether I was doing enough for my children or even for myself. Throughout these struggles, I realized that I could not allow myself to crumble. I had a vision for our future, a dream that involved pursuing my education and creating a better life for my family. Fueled by determination, I returned to school, determined to achieve a dream that too often felt out of reach. In 2023, I proudly graduated from Drexel University with a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing. The memory of walking across that stage, with my children cheering me on, is forever etched into my heart. Their smiles were a reminder that my achievement was not just a personal victory. It represented everything we had worked for, a testament to what can be accomplished through perseverance and commitment. Watching them celebrate my success reinforced my resolve to continue striving for excellence, not only for my own sake but for them as well. Nursing embodies the principle of lifelong learning, and I have wholeheartedly embraced this idea. The profession demands a reflective and proactive mindset, which I have made a cornerstone of my career. Every experience and piece of knowledge I acquire enriches my capabilities and enhances my ability to provide meaningful care to my patients. Continuous education is not merely a requirement for me; it is a vital commitment in the ever-evolving healthcare landscape. In doing so, I have been accepted to La Salle University’s Wound Ostomy Continence Nursing Program. I am dedicated to expanding my skills and adapting to meet the demands of this field for the benefit of my patients and my community. Looking ahead, my goals extend beyond personal improvement. I want to impart upon my children the immense value of education and hard work. I want them to recognize that obstacles can be overcome, that some sacrifice is necessary, and that chasing one’s dreams is always worth the effort. Each challenging day serves as a reminder that we are capable of great things, and I strive to show them this reality daily. Maya Angelou once said, “You may encounter defeats, but you must not be defeated.” This sentiment fuels my spirit as I navigate life’s challenges. Having the inspiration and drive to pursue goals is essential; it keeps my mind and spirit positive as I continue to grow. Yes, obstacles will come, but it is our inspiration that carries us forward, encouraging us to keep pushing ahead. I will continue to rise, not just for myself, but for my children, embodying the lessons I wish to impart.

As a registered nurse, my journey has been profoundly shaped by my experiences, but the real driving force behind my dedication and resilience comes from my five children. They are my daily motivation, reminding me of the importance of hard work, love, and determination. Being a single parent, particularly after losing my children’s father to heart failure, has instilled in me a level of consistency, patience, and sacrifice that few can understand. Every decision I make revolves around their well-being, and while this responsibility brings immense joy, it has also presented unique challenges that have tested my limits. There have been many moments when guilt, doubt, and anxiety threatened to overwhelm me. I often found myself questioning whether I was doing enough for my children or even for myself. Throughout these struggles, I realized that I could not allow myself to crumble. I had a vision for our future, a dream that involved pursuing my education and creating a better life for my family. Fueled by determination, I returned to school, determined to achieve a dream that too often felt out of reach. In 2023, I proudly graduated from Drexel University with a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing. The memory of walking across that stage, with my children cheering me on, is forever etched into my heart. Their smiles were a reminder that my achievement was not just a personal victory. It represented everything we had worked for, a testament to what can be accomplished through perseverance and commitment. Watching them celebrate my success reinforced my resolve to continue striving for excellence, not only for my own sake but for them as well. Nursing embodies the principle of lifelong learning, and I have wholeheartedly embraced this idea. The profession demands a reflective and proactive mindset, which I have made a cornerstone of my career. Every experience and piece of knowledge I acquire enriches my capabilities and enhances my ability to provide meaningful care to my patients. Continuous education is not merely a requirement for me; it is a vital commitment in the ever-evolving healthcare landscape. I am dedicated to expanding my skills and adapting to meet the demands of this field for the benefit of my patients and my community. Looking ahead, my goals extend beyond personal improvement. I want to impart upon my children the immense value of education and hard work. I want them to recognize that obstacles can be overcome, that some sacrifice is necessary, and that chasing one’s dreams is always worth the effort. Each challenging day serves as a reminder that we are capable of great things, and I strive to show them this reality daily. Maya Angelou once said, “You may encounter defeats, but you must not be defeated.” This sentiment fuels my spirit as I navigate life’s challenges. Having the inspiration and drive to pursue goals is essential; it keeps my mind and spirit positive as I continue to grow. Yes, obstacles will come, but it is our inspiration that carries us forward, encouraging us to keep pushing ahead. I will continue to rise, not just for myself, but for my children, embodying the lessons I wish to impart.

As a registered nurse, my journey has been profoundly shaped by my experiences, but the real driving force behind my dedication and resilience comes from my five children. They are my daily motivation, reminding me of the importance of hard work, love, and determination. Being a single parent, particularly after losing my children’s father to heart failure, has instilled in me a level of consistency, patience, and sacrifice that few can understand. Every decision I make revolves around their well-being, and while this responsibility brings immense joy, it has also presented unique challenges that have tested my limits. There have been many moments when guilt, doubt, and anxiety threatened to overwhelm me. I often found myself questioning whether I was doing enough for my children or even for myself. Throughout these struggles, I realized that I could not allow myself to crumble. I had a vision for our future, a dream that involved pursuing my education and creating a better life for my family. Fueled by determination, I returned to school, determined to achieve a dream that too often felt out of reach. In 2023, I proudly graduated from Drexel University with a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing. The memory of walking across that stage, with my children cheering me on, is forever etched into my heart. Their smiles were a reminder that my achievement was not just a personal victory. It represented everything we had worked for, a testament to what can be accomplished through perseverance and commitment. Watching them celebrate my success reinforced my resolve to continue striving for excellence, not only for my own sake but for them as well. Nursing embodies the principle of lifelong learning, and I have wholeheartedly embraced this idea. The profession demands a reflective and proactive mindset, which I have made a cornerstone of my career. Every experience and piece of knowledge I acquire enriches my capabilities and enhances my ability to provide meaningful care to my patients. Continuous education is not merely a requirement for me; it is a vital commitment in the ever-evolving healthcare landscape. I am dedicated to expanding my skills and adapting to meet the demands of this field for the benefit of my patients and my community. Looking ahead, my goals extend beyond personal improvement. I want to impart upon my children the immense value of education and hard work. I want them to recognize that obstacles can be overcome, that some sacrifice is necessary, and that chasing one’s dreams is always worth the effort. Each challenging day serves as a reminder that we are capable of great things, and I strive to show them this reality daily. Maya Angelou once said, “You may encounter defeats, but you must not be defeated.” This sentiment fuels my spirit as I navigate life’s challenges. Having the inspiration and drive to pursue goals is essential; it keeps my mind and spirit positive as I continue to grow. Yes, obstacles will come, but it is our inspiration that carries us forward, encouraging us to keep pushing ahead. I will continue to rise, not just for myself, but for my children, embodying the lessons I wish to impart.

As a registered nurse, my journey has been profoundly shaped by my experiences, but the real driving force behind my dedication and resilience comes from my five children. They are my daily motivation, reminding me of the importance of hard work, love, and determination. Being a single parent, particularly after losing my children’s father to heart failure, has instilled in me a level of consistency, patience, and sacrifice that few can understand. Every decision I make revolves around their well-being, and while this responsibility brings immense joy, it has also presented unique challenges that have tested my limits. There have been many moments when guilt, doubt, and anxiety threatened to overwhelm me. I often found myself questioning whether I was doing enough for my children or even for myself. Throughout these struggles, I realized that I could not allow myself to crumble. I had a vision for our future, a dream that involved pursuing my education and creating a better life for my family. Fueled by determination, I returned to school, determined to achieve a dream that too often felt out of reach. In 2023, I proudly graduated from Drexel University with a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing. The memory of walking across that stage, with my children cheering me on, is forever etched into my heart. Their smiles were a reminder that my achievement was not just a personal victory. It represented everything we had worked for, a testament to what can be accomplished through perseverance and commitment. Watching them celebrate my success reinforced my resolve to continue striving for excellence, not only for my own sake but for them as well. Nursing embodies the principle of lifelong learning, and I have wholeheartedly embraced this idea. The profession demands a reflective and proactive mindset, which I have made a cornerstone of my career. Every experience and piece of knowledge I acquire enriches my capabilities and enhances my ability to provide meaningful care to my patients. Continuous education is not merely a requirement for me; it is a vital commitment in the ever-evolving healthcare landscape. I am dedicated to expanding my skills and adapting to meet the demands of this field for the benefit of my patients and my community. Looking ahead, my goals extend beyond personal improvement. I want to impart upon my children the immense value of education and hard work. I want them to recognize that obstacles can be overcome, that some sacrifice is necessary, and that chasing one’s dreams is always worth the effort. Each challenging day serves as a reminder that we are capable of great things, and I strive to show them this reality daily. Maya Angelou once said, “You may encounter defeats, but you must not be defeated.” This sentiment fuels my spirit as I navigate life’s challenges. Having the inspiration and drive to pursue goals is essential; it keeps my mind and spirit positive as I continue to grow. Yes, obstacles will come, but it is our inspiration that carries us forward, encouraging us to keep pushing ahead. I will continue to rise, not just for myself, but for my children, embodying the lessons I wish to impart.

I have always known that I wanted to become a nurse, it has been my lifelong dream. However, it wasn't until I began my studies at Drexel University that I discovered what my true passion was. It all started with one research assignment in which I was asked to discuss how I would impact the nursing profession. While conducting my research, I learned that pregnancy-related deaths in the United States is progressing, especially among African American women. According to the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), studies show that about 60% of all pregnancy-related deaths could be prevented if women had better access to healthcare, received better quality of care and made changes in their health and lifestyle habits. Undoubtedly, it is heartbreaking. There are women who are just like me, who don’t have the access to quality medical care, and are dying from underlying conditions that they might not have realized they had. That’s when I decided that I would like to help promote change in the state of Pennsylvania. When I become a nurse, I would like to specialize in Maternal/Fetal Health in disadvantaged communities. I hope to join the Pennsylvania Maternal Mortality Review Committee. The goal of this committee is to systemically review all maternal deaths, identify root causes of these deaths and develop strategies to reduce preventable morbidity, mortality and racial disparities related to pregnancy in Pennsylvania. As well, I would like to become a Nurse Midwife and open a women and children's community health center. With the right connections and support, I would provide family planning services, prenatal and postpartum care, nutritional services, breastfeeding support, preventative health screenings and treatment, as well as social services and counseling. I know this will require an abundance of resources, diligence, and sacrifice, but I want to be a part of the movement that keeps my community healthy and safe. All things considered, I resigned from my full-time job as a medical assistant to pursue my Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Drexel University. This was an arduous decision that I had to make; however, I know that it will prove to be beneficial in the near future. Due to my full-time course load, I am only able to work per diem. So, I will need as much help as I can get with tuition, books, transportation, and childcare while I attend lecture and clinicals. By making the sacrifice to continue my education, I am one step closer to reaching my goal of becoming a nurse. I believe that a career in nursing will be very rewarding, because I know that I will have genuine opportunities to make a difference in the lives of many.

As an aspiring nurse who has worked as a professional in the healthcare field for over 18 years, there have been many experiences that have inspired me to become the woman that I am today. However, above anything or anyone, my five children are my greatest inspiration. Undoubtedly, single parenting requires consistency, patience, and sacrifice. Every single moment of my life revolves around my children, as they are my top priority. Working twice as hard to make sure that all my children’s needs are met is certainly not an easy task, especially since their father passed away from heart failure. There have been moments where I let guilt, doubt, and anxiety consume me, and I had no desire to live in my true purpose. Even so, I never gave up. I knew that I wanted better for myself and my family, so I returned to school. In doing so, I completed my nursing prerequisites and graduated from Community College of Philadelphia with an Associate in Arts in Healthcare Studies. Thereafter, I was accepted to Drexel University College of Nursing and Health Professions. Since beginning my nursing studies at Drexel University, I have joined the National Student Nurses Association and the National Black Nurses Association. I believe that joining these associations will help me to grow and thrive as a nursing student. Networking and making connections with other nursing students and faculty will prove to be very beneficial to my nursing career. As well, I choose to focus on Maternal/Fetal Health in disadvantaged communities. I chose this specialty because I want to help improve the safety and welfare of pregnant women through various preventative care measures. What is most concerning to me is that pregnancy related deaths are on the rise. The factors that contribute to pregnancy-related deaths include access to care, older maternal age, missed or delayed diagnoses, or women not recognizing significant warning signs. I hope to learn more about how I can incorporate reproductive health into my field of study, and how I can do more to advocate for women that do not have access to adequate health care. I also plan to complete my master’s degree in Nurse Midwifery. As well, I would like to open a community center that serves women that do not have access to health care. With the right connections and support, I would provide family planning services, prenatal and postpartum care, nutritional services, breastfeeding support, preventative health screenings and treatment, as well as social services and counseling. I know this will require an abundance of resources, diligence, and sacrifice, but I want to be a part of the movement that keeps my community healthy and safe. I believe that a career in nursing will be extremely rewarding, because I know I will have genuine opportunities to make a difference in the lives of many.

Most of my life, I have lived in urban areas where many families have not had access to quality medical care, health insurance, and other resources. Race, ethnicity, sex, income, and geographic location are just some of many dimensions of disparities that are prevalent. According to the Office of Minority Health, the death rate for African Americans is higher than whites for heart disease, stroke, cancer, asthma and pneumonia, diabetes, HIV/AIDS, and homicide. I have taken a special interest in community health because these issues have had an ongoing impact on my family as well as the surrounding areas of my neighborhood. I have had the experience of working in various health centers all over the city of Philadelphia. These health centers served the immigrants and non-English speaking populations, as well as people that were in desperate need of medical care but had little to no income. I enjoyed my encounters with patients from various levels of society. These experiences helped me to gain cultural competence. I learned that the ability to understand, effectively communicate, and interact with people across cultures entails awareness of a patient’s customs, beliefs, actions, thoughts, and values. As an individual, I also became more aware of my own attitudes and tendencies. In doing so, I acquired a knowledge base of cultures in my service area in conjunction with various healthcare practices and beliefs. More recently, I had the pleasure of volunteering. I found the opportunities to be very enlightening. I served at the University Lutheran Church, where hot meals are prepared and given to the homeless. As well, I volunteered for the Share Program by calling individuals to confirm their food basket deliveries. In doing so, I noticed that the food baskets were being delivered to senior citizens that resided in the urban areas of Southwest and North Philadelphia. Those are just a couple of low-income areas in Philadelphia that struggle with food insecurity. In conjunction with my current nursing studies, I would also like to take up a minor in Public Health. Eventually, I would like to become a Nurse Midwife. As well, I would like to open a community center that primarily serves women and families that do not have access to health care. With the right connections and support, I would provide family planning services, prenatal and postpartum care, nutritional services, breastfeeding support, preventative health screenings and treatment, as well as social services and counseling. I know this will require an abundance of resources, diligence, and sacrifice, but I want to be a part of the movement that keeps my community healthy and safe.

My dream is to complete my Bachelor's of Science in Nursing. As well, I would like to open a community center that serves women that do not have access to health care. With the right connections and support, I would provide family planning services, prenatal and postpartum care, nutritional services, breastfeeding support, preventative health screenings and treatment, as well as social services and counseling.

As an aspiring nurse who has worked as a professional in the healthcare field for over 18 years, there have been many experiences that have inspired me to become the woman that I am today. However, above anything or anyone, my five children are my greatest inspiration. Undoubtedly, single parenting requires consistency, patience, and sacrifice. Every single moment of my life revolves around my children, as they are my top priority. Working twice as hard to make sure that all my children’s needs are met is certainly not an easy task, especially since their father passed away from heart failure. There have been moments where I let guilt, doubt, and anxiety consume me, and I had no desire to live in my true purpose. Even so, I never gave up. I knew that I wanted better for myself and my family, so I returned to school. In doing so, I completed my nursing prerequisites and graduated from Community College of Philadelphia with an Associate in Arts in Healthcare Studies. Thereafter, I was accepted to Drexel University College of Nursing and Health Professions. Since beginning my nursing studies at Drexel University, I have joined the National Student Nurses Association and the National Black Nurses Association. I believe that joining these associations will help me to grow and thrive as a nursing student. Networking and making connections with other nursing students and faculty will prove to be very beneficial to my nursing career. As well, I choose to focus on Maternal/Fetal Health in disadvantaged communities. I chose this specialty because I want to help improve the safety and welfare of pregnant women through various preventative care measures. What is most concerning to me is that pregnancy related deaths are on the rise. The factors that contribute to pregnancy-related deaths include access to care, older maternal age, missed or delayed diagnoses, or women not recognizing significant warning signs. I hope to learn more about how I can incorporate reproductive health into my field of study, and how I can do more to advocate for women that do not have access to adequate health care. I also plan to complete my master’s degree in Nurse Midwifery. As well, I would like to open a community center that serves women that do not have access to health care. With the right connections and support, I would provide family planning services, prenatal and postpartum care, nutritional services, breastfeeding support, preventative health screenings and treatment, as well as social services and counseling. I know this will require an abundance of resources, diligence, and sacrifice, but I want to be a part of the movement that keeps my community healthy and safe. I believe that a career in nursing will be extremely rewarding, because I know I will have genuine opportunities to make a difference in the lives of many.

I have always known that I wanted to become a nurse, it has been my lifelong dream. However, it wasn't until I began my studies at Drexel University that I discovered what my true passion was. It all started with one research assignment in which I was asked to discuss how I would impact the nursing profession. While conducting my research, I learned that pregnancy-related deaths in the United States is progressing, especially among African American women. According to the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), studies show that about 60% of all pregnancy-related deaths could be prevented if women had better access to healthcare, received better quality of care and made changes in their health and lifestyle habits. Undoubtedly, it is heartbreaking. There are women who are just like me, who don’t have the access to quality medical care, and are dying from underlying conditions that they might not have realized they had. That’s when I decided that I would like to help promote change in the state of Pennsylvania. When I become a nurse, I would like to specialize in Maternal/Fetal Health in disadvantaged communities. I hope to join the Pennsylvania Maternal Mortality Review Committee. The goal of this committee is to systemically review all maternal deaths, identify root causes of these deaths and develop strategies to reduce preventable morbidity, mortality and racial disparities related to pregnancy in Pennsylvania. As well, I would like to become a Nurse Midwife and open a women and children's community health center. With the right connections and support, I would provide family planning services, prenatal and postpartum care, nutritional services, breastfeeding support, preventative health screenings and treatment, as well as social services and counseling. I know this will require an abundance of resources, diligence, and sacrifice, but I want to be a part of the movement that keeps my community healthy and safe. All things considered, I resigned from my full-time job as a medical assistant to pursue my Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Drexel University. This was an arduous decision that I had to make; however, I know that it will prove to be beneficial in the near future. Due to my full-time course load, I am only able to work per diem. So, I will need as much help as I can get with tuition, books, transportation, and childcare while I attend lecture and clinicals. By making the sacrifice to continue my education, I am one step closer to reaching my goal of becoming a nurse. I believe that a career in nursing will be very rewarding, because I know that I will have genuine opportunities to make a difference in the lives of many.

I don't think that any woman plans to be a single parent. It's one of those things that just "happens." I was raised in a single parent home. My father suffered from severe mental health issues, drug addiction, and he was very abusive towards my mother. So, the only way to keep my brother and I safe was to leave him. I watched her struggle to take care of my brother and me. For two years we were homeless, and constantly travelling from shelter to shelter. But my mother worked, saved her money, and found my brother and I a place to call home. There were instances where we had no heat or hot water, and there were times where we had little food in the house; but we survived. Each month, my brother and I stood with our mother in the long welfare lines for food stamps and cash assistance. In retrospect, it was my mother that inspired me to become the woman that I am today. Her struggle became my strength. Now I have five children of my own, and they are my greatest inspiration. Undoubtedly, single parenting requires an extensive amount of diligence, patience, and sacrifice. Every moment of my life revolves around my children, as they are my top priority. Working twice as hard to make sure that all my children’s needs are met is certainly not an easy task, especially since their father passed away from heart failure. That alone has put a tremendous mental, emotional, and financial strain on my family. There have been moments where I let guilt, doubt, depression, and anxiety consume me, and I had no desire to live in my true purpose. Even so, I never gave up. In 2017, I withdrew from school due to extreme hardship maintaining work/life balance. My children were having behavioral and learning difficulties, in which one of my sons was diagnosed with Autism. After learning of this, I knew I wanted better for my family, so I returned to school. I completed my prerequisites in 2021 and was accepted into Drexel University College of Nursing and Health Professions. After much consideration, I resigned from my full-time job as a medical assistant to pursue my BSN. This was an arduous decision that I had to make; however, I know that it will prove to be beneficial in the near future. This scholarship will help with tuition, books, transportation, and childcare. Continuing my education was the best decision that I have ever made. My children watch my every move, and they depend on me for everything. So, I have no choice but to go above and beyond for them. I am also setting an example for them to do and be their best, no matter how hard life gets. I am resilient, adaptable, and ambitious. Once I obtain my nursing degree, I choose to focus on Maternal/Fetal Health in disadvantaged communities. I also plan to complete my master’s degree in Nurse Midwifery, and I would like to open a community center that primarily serves women and children. With the right connections and support, I would provide family planning services, prenatal and postpartum care, nutritional services, breastfeeding support, preventative health screenings and treatment, as well as social services and counseling. I know this will require an abundance of resources, but I want to be a part of the movement that keeps my community healthy and safe. I believe that a career in nursing will be extremely rewarding, because I know I will have genuine opportunities to make a difference in the lives of many.

I don't think that any woman plans to be a single parent. It's one of those things that just "happens." I was raised in a single parent home. My father suffered from severe mental health issues, drug addiction, and he was very abusive towards my mother. So, the only way to keep my brother and I safe was to leave him. I watched her struggle to take care of my brother and me. For two years we were homeless, and constantly travelling from shelter to shelter. But my mother worked, saved her money, and found my brother and I a place to call home. There were instances where we had no heat or hot water, and there were times where we had little food in the house; but we survived. Each month, my brother and I stood with our mother in the long welfare lines for food stamps and cash assistance. In retrospect, it was those experiences that have inspired me to become the woman that I am today. Now I have five children of my own, and they are my greatest inspiration. Undoubtedly, single parenting requires an extensive amount of diligence, patience, and sacrifice. Every moment of my life revolves around my children, as they are my top priority. Working twice as hard to make sure that all my children’s needs are met is certainly not an easy task, especially since their father passed away from heart failure. That alone has put a tremendous mental, emotional, and financial strain on my family. There have been moments where I let guilt, doubt, depression, and anxiety consume me, and I had no desire to live in my true purpose. Even so, I never gave up. In 2017, I withdrew from school due to my extreme hardship in maintaining work/life balance. My children were having behavioral and learning difficulties, in which one of my sons was diagnosed with Autism. After learning of his diagnosis, I knew I wanted a better life for my family, so I returned to school. I completed my prerequisites in 2021 and was accepted into Drexel University College of Nursing and Health Professions. After much consideration, I resigned from my full-time job as a medical assistant to pursue my BSN. This was an arduous decision that I had to make; however, I know that it will prove to be beneficial in the near future. This scholarship will help with tuition, books, transportation, and childcare. Continuing my education was the best decision that I have ever made. My children watch my every move, and they depend on me for everything. So, I have no choice but to go above and beyond for them. I am also setting an example for them to do and be their best, no matter how hard life gets. I am resilient, adaptable, and ambitious. Once I obtain my nursing degree, I choose to focus on Maternal/Fetal Health in disadvantaged communities. I also plan to complete my master’s degree in Nurse Midwifery, and I would like to open a community center that primarily serves women and children. With the right connections and support, I would provide family planning services, prenatal and postpartum care, nutritional services, breastfeeding support, preventative health screenings and treatment, as well as social services and counseling. I know this will require an abundance of resources, but I want to be a part of the movement that keeps my community healthy and safe. I believe that a career in nursing will be extremely rewarding, because I know I will have genuine opportunities to make a difference in the lives of many.

Throughout my life, there have been many experiences that have inspired me to become the woman that I am today. However, above anything or anyone, my five children are my greatest inspiration. Undoubtedly, single parenting requires an abundance of diligence, patience, and sacrifice. Every single moment of my life revolves around my children, as they are my top priority. Working twice as hard to make sure that all my children’s needs are met is certainly not an easy task, especially since their father passed away from heart failure. That alone has put a tremendous mental, emotional, and financial strain on my family. There have been moments where I let guilt, doubt, depression, and anxiety consume me, and I had no desire to live in my true purpose. Even so, I never gave up. In 2017, I withdrew from school due to my extreme hardship in maintaining work/life balance. My children were having behavioral and learning difficulties, in which one of my sons was diagnosed with Autism. Additionally, my other children were diagnosed with ADHD. Although I had very little support, I stepped up and advocated for my children. Now, each of my children have specialized therapeutic services, learning support plans, and tutoring services. They are growing, thriving, and doing so much better in school. I didn’t give up on them because they deserve a quality education, regardless of their learning challenges. All things considered, I resigned from my full-time job as a medical assistant to pursue my Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Drexel University. This was an arduous decision that I had to make; however, I know that it will prove to be beneficial in the near future. Currently, I work part-time at a pediatric doctor’s office, so I will need as much help as I can get with tuition, books, transportation, and any additional fees. Continuing my education was the best decision that I have ever made. My children watch my every move, and they depend on me for everything. They give me the strength that I need to keep going. So, I have no choice but to go above and beyond for them. I am also setting an example for them to do and be their best, no matter how hard life gets. I am resilient, adaptable, and ambitious, and once I obtain my nursing degree, I choose to focus on Maternal/Fetal Health in disadvantaged communities. I want to help improve the safety and welfare of pregnant women through various preventative care measures. I hope to learn more about how I can incorporate reproductive health into my field of study, and how I can do more to advocate for women that do not have access to adequate health care. Since beginning my nursing studies at Drexel University, I have joined the National Student Nurses Association and the National Black Nurses Association. I believe that joining these associations will help me to grow and thrive as a nursing student. Networking and making connections with other nursing students and faculty will prove to be very beneficial to my nursing career. I am also a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, Rho Upsilon Chapter. In ten years, I plan to complete my master’s degree in Nurse Midwifery. As well, I would like to open a community center that serves women that do not have access to health care. With the right connections and support, I would provide family planning services, prenatal and postpartum care, nutritional services, breastfeeding support, preventative health screenings and treatment, as well as social services and counseling. I know this will require an abundance of resources, but I want to be a part of the movement that keeps my community healthy and safe. I believe that a career in nursing will be extremely rewarding, because I know I will have genuine opportunities to make a difference in the lives of many.

Throughout my life, there have been many experiences that have inspired me to become the woman that I am today. However, above anything or anyone, my five children are my greatest inspiration. Undoubtedly, single parenting requires consistency, patience, and sacrifice. Every single moment of my life revolves around my children, as they are my top priority. Working twice as hard to make sure that all my children’s needs are met is certainly not an easy task. There have been moments where I let guilt, doubt, and anxiety consume me, and I had no desire to live in my true purpose. Even so, I never gave up. In 2017, I withdrew from school due to my extreme hardship in maintaining work/life balance. My children were having behavioral and learning difficulties, in which one of my sons was diagnosed with Autism. Additionally, my other children were diagnosed with ADHD. Although I had very little support, I stepped up and advocated for my children. Now, each of my children have specialized therapeutic services, learning support plans, and tutoring services. They are growing, thriving, and doing so much better in school. I did not give up on them because they deserve a quality education, regardless of their learning challenges. All things considered, I had to resign from my full-time job as a medical assistant to pursue my Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Drexel University. This was an arduous decision that I had to make; however, I know that it will prove to be beneficial in the near future. This scholarship will help with tuition, and any additional fees, books, and other expenses. Continuing my education was the best decision that I have ever made. My children watch my every move, and they depend on me for everything. So, I have no choice but to go above and beyond for them. I am also setting an example for them to do and be their best, no matter how hard life gets. Since continuing my nursing studies at Drexel University, I have joined the National Student Nurses Association and the National Black Nurses Association. I believe that joining these associations will help me to grow and thrive as a nursing student. Networking and making connections with other nursing students and faculty will prove to be beneficial to my nursing career. I am also a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, Rho Upsilon Chapter. I am resilient, adaptable, and ambitious, and once I obtain my nursing degree, I choose to focus on Maternal/Fetal Health in disadvantaged communities. I want to help improve the safety and welfare of pregnant women through various preventative care measures. I hope to learn more about how I can incorporate reproductive health into my field of study, and how I can do more to advocate for women that do not have access to adequate health care. In ten years, I hope to complete my master’s degree in Nurse Midwifery. It is my dream to open a community center that serves women that do not have access to health care. With the right connections and support, I would provide family planning services, prenatal and postpartum care, nutritional services, breastfeeding support, preventative health screenings and treatment, as well as social services and counseling. I know this will require an abundance of resources and diligence, but I want to be a part of the movement that keeps my community healthy and safe. I believe that a career in nursing will be extremely rewarding, because I know I will have genuine opportunities to make a difference in the lives of many.

Throughout my life, there have been many experiences that have inspired me to become the woman that I am today. However, above anything or anyone, my five children are my greatest inspiration. Undoubtedly, single parenting requires consistency, patience, and sacrifice. Every single moment of my life revolves around my children, as they are my top priority. Working twice as hard to make sure that all my children’s needs are met is certainly not an easy task. There have been moments where I let guilt, doubt, and anxiety consume me, and I had no desire to live in my true purpose. Even so, I never gave up. In 2017, I withdrew from school due to my extreme hardship in maintaining work/life balance. My children were having behavioral and learning difficulties, in which one of my sons was diagnosed with Autism. Additionally, my other children were diagnosed with ADHD. Although I had very little support, I stepped up and advocated for my children. Now, each of my children have specialized therapeutic services, learning support plans, and tutoring services. They are growing, thriving, and doing so much better in school. I did not give up on them because they deserve a quality education, regardless of their learning challenges. All things considered, I had to resign from my full-time job as a medical assistant to pursue my Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Drexel University. This was an arduous decision that I had to make; however, I know that it will prove to be beneficial in the near future. This scholarship will help with tuition, and any additional fees, books, and other expenses. Continuing my education was the best decision that I have ever made. My children watch my every move, and they depend on me for everything. So, I have no choice but to go above and beyond for them. I am also setting an example for them to do and be their best, no matter how hard life gets. Since continuing my nursing studies at Drexel University, I have joined the National Student Nurses Association and the National Black Nurses Association. I believe that joining these associations will help me to grow and thrive as a nursing student. Networking and making connections with other nursing students and faculty will prove to be beneficial to my nursing career. I am also a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, Rho Upsilon Chapter. I am resilient, adaptable, and ambitious, and once I obtain my nursing degree, I choose to focus on Maternal/Fetal Health in disadvantaged communities. I want to help improve the safety and welfare of pregnant women through various preventative care measures. I hope to learn more about how I can incorporate reproductive health into my field of study, and how I can do more to advocate for women that do not have access to adequate health care. In ten years, I hope to complete my master’s degree in Nurse Midwifery. It is my dream to open a community center that serves women that do not have access to health care. With the right connections and support, I would provide family planning services, prenatal and postpartum care, nutritional services, breastfeeding support, preventative health screenings and treatment, as well as social services and counseling. I know this will require an abundance of resources and diligence, but I want to be a part of the movement that keeps my community healthy and safe. I believe that a career in nursing will be extremely rewarding, because I know I will have genuine opportunities to make a difference in the lives of many.

Throughout my life, there have been many experiences that have inspired me to become the woman that I am today. However, above anything or anyone, my five children are my greatest inspiration. Undoubtedly, single parenting requires consistency, patience, and sacrifice. Every single moment of my life revolves around my children, as they are my top priority. Working twice as hard to make sure that all my children’s needs are met is certainly not an easy task. There have been moments where I let guilt, doubt, and anxiety consume me, and I had no desire to live in my true purpose. Even so, I never gave up. In 2017, I withdrew from school due to my extreme hardship in maintaining work/life balance. My children were having behavioral and learning difficulties, in which one of my sons was diagnosed with Autism. Additionally, my other children were diagnosed with ADHD. Although I had very little support, I stepped up and advocated for my children. Now, each of my children have specialized therapeutic services, learning support plans, and tutoring services. They are growing, thriving, and doing so much better in school. I did not give up on them because they deserve a quality education, regardless of their learning challenges. All things considered, I had to resign from my full-time job as a medical assistant to pursue my Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Drexel University. This was an arduous decision that I had to make; however, I know that it will prove to be beneficial in the near future. This scholarship will help with tuition, and any additional fees, books, and other expenses. Continuing my education was the best decision that I have ever made. My children watch my every move, and they depend on me for everything. So, I have no choice but to go above and beyond for them. I am also setting an example for them to do and be their best, no matter how hard life gets. Since continuing my nursing studies at Drexel University, I have joined the National Student Nurses Association and the National Black Nurses Association. I believe that joining these associations will help me to grow and thrive as a nursing student. Networking and making connections with other nursing students and faculty will prove to be beneficial to my nursing career. I am also a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, Rho Upsilon Chapter. I am resilient, adaptable, and ambitious. Once I obtain my nursing degree, I choose to focus on Maternal/Fetal Health in disadvantaged communities. I want to help improve the safety and welfare of pregnant women through various preventative care measures. I hope to learn more about how I can incorporate reproductive health into my field of study, and how I can do more to advocate for women that do not have access to adequate health care. In ten years, I hope to complete my master’s degree in Nurse Midwifery. It is my dream to open a community center that serves women that do not have access to health care. With the right connections and support, I would provide family planning services, prenatal and postpartum care, nutritional services, breastfeeding support, preventative health screenings and treatment, as well as social services and counseling. I know this will require an abundance of resources and diligence, but I want to be a part of the movement that keeps my community healthy and safe. I believe that a career in nursing will be extremely rewarding, because I know I will have genuine opportunities to make a difference in the lives of many.

Throughout my life, there have been many experiences that have inspired me to become the woman that I am today. However, above anything or anyone, my five children are my greatest inspiration. Undoubtedly, single parenting requires consistency, patience, and sacrifice. Every single moment of my life revolves around my children, as they are my top priority. Working twice as hard to make sure that all my children’s needs are met is certainly not an easy task. There have been moments where I let guilt, doubt, and anxiety consume me, and I had no desire to live in my true purpose. Even so, I never gave up. In 2017, I withdrew from school due to my extreme hardship in maintaining work/life balance. My children were having behavioral and learning difficulties, in which one of my sons was diagnosed with Autism. Additionally, my other children were diagnosed with ADHD. Although I had very little support, I stepped up and advocated for my children. Now, each of my children have specialized therapeutic services, learning support plans, and tutoring services. They are growing, thriving, and doing so much better in school. I did not give up on them because they deserve a quality education, regardless of their learning challenges. All things considered, I had to resign from my full-time job as a medical assistant to pursue my Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Drexel University. This was an arduous decision that I had to make; however, I know that it will prove to be beneficial in the near future. This scholarship will help with tuition, and any additional fees, books, and other expenses. Continuing my education was the best decision that I have ever made. My children watch my every move, and they depend on me for everything. So, I have no choice but to go above and beyond for them. I am also setting an example for them to do and be their best, no matter how hard life gets. Since continuing my nursing studies at Drexel University, I have joined the National Student Nurses Association and the National Black Nurses Association. I believe that joining these associations will help me to grow and thrive as a nursing student. Networking and making connections with other nursing students and faculty will prove to be beneficial to my nursing career. I am also a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, Rho Upsilon Chapter. I am resilient, adaptable, and ambitious, and once I obtain my nursing degree, I choose to focus on Maternal/Fetal Health in disadvantaged communities. I want to help improve the safety and welfare of pregnant women through various preventative care measures. I hope to learn more about how I can incorporate reproductive health into my field of study, and how I can do more to advocate for women that do not have access to adequate health care. In ten years, I hope to complete my master’s degree in Nurse Midwifery. It is my dream to open a community center that serves women that do not have access to health care. With the right connections and support, I would provide family planning services, prenatal and postpartum care, nutritional services, breastfeeding support, preventative health screenings and treatment, as well as social services and counseling. I know this will require an abundance of resources and diligence, but I want to be a part of the movement that keeps my community healthy and safe. I believe that a career in nursing will be extremely rewarding, because I know I will have genuine opportunities to make a difference in the lives of many.

Throughout my life, there have been many experiences that have inspired me to become the woman that I am today. However, above anything or anyone, my five children are my greatest inspiration. Undoubtedly, single parenting requires consistency, patience, and sacrifice. Every single moment of my life revolves around my children, as they are my top priority. Working twice as hard to make sure that all my children’s needs are met is certainly not an easy task. There have been moments where I let guilt, doubt, and anxiety consume me, and I had no desire to live in my true purpose. Even so, I never gave up. In 2017, I withdrew from school due to my extreme hardship in maintaining work/life balance. My children were having behavioral and learning difficulties, in which one of my sons was diagnosed with Autism. Additionally, my other children were diagnosed with ADHD. Although I had very little support, I stepped up and advocated for my children. Now, each of my children have specialized therapeutic services, learning support plans, and tutoring services. They are growing, thriving, and doing so much better in school. I did not give up on them because they deserve a quality education, regardless of their learning challenges. All things considered, I had to resign from my full-time job as a medical assistant to pursue my Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Drexel University. This was an arduous decision that I had to make; however, I know that it will prove to be beneficial in the near future. This scholarship will help with tuition, and any additional fees, books, and other expenses. Continuing my education was the best decision that I have ever made. My children watch my every move, and they depend on me for everything. So, I have no choice but to go above and beyond for them. I am also setting an example for them to do and be their best, no matter how hard life gets. Since continuing my nursing studies at Drexel University, I have joined the National Student Nurses Association and the National Black Nurses Association. I believe that joining these associations will help me to grow and thrive as a nursing student. Networking and making connections with other nursing students and faculty will prove to be beneficial to my nursing career. I am also a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, Rho Upsilon Chapter. I am resilient, adaptable, and ambitious, and once I obtain my nursing degree, I choose to focus on Maternal/Fetal Health in disadvantaged communities. I want to help improve the safety and welfare of pregnant women through various preventative care measures. I hope to learn more about how I can incorporate reproductive health into my field of study, and how I can do more to advocate for women that do not have access to adequate health care. In ten years, I hope to complete my master’s degree in Nurse Midwifery. It is my dream to open a community center that serves women that do not have access to health care. With the right connections and support, I would provide family planning services, prenatal and postpartum care, nutritional services, breastfeeding support, preventative health screenings and treatment, as well as social services and counseling. I know this will require an abundance of resources and diligence, but I want to be a part of the movement that keeps my community healthy and safe. I believe that a career in nursing will be extremely rewarding, because I know I will have genuine opportunities to make a difference in the lives of many.

Throughout my life, there have been many experiences that have inspired me to become the woman that I am today. However, above anything or anyone, my five children are my greatest inspiration. Undoubtedly, single parenting requires consistency, patience, and sacrifice. Every single moment of my life revolves around my children, as they are my top priority. Working twice as hard to make sure that all my children’s needs are met is certainly not an easy task. There have been moments where I let guilt, doubt, and anxiety consume me, and I had no desire to live in my true purpose. Even so, I never gave up. In 2017, I withdrew from school due to my extreme hardship in maintaining work/life balance. My children were having behavioral and learning difficulties, in which one of my sons was diagnosed with Autism. Additionally, my other children were diagnosed with ADHD. Although I had very little support, I stepped up and advocated for my children. Now, each of my children have specialized therapeutic services, learning support plans, and tutoring services. They are growing, thriving, and doing so much better in school. I did not give up on them because they deserve a quality education, regardless of their learning challenges. All things considered, I had to resign from my full-time job as a medical assistant to pursue my Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Drexel University. This was an arduous decision that I had to make; however, I know that it will prove to be beneficial in the near future. This scholarship will help with tuition, and any additional fees, books, and other expenses. Continuing my education was the best decision that I have ever made. My children watch my every move, and they depend on me for everything. So, I have no choice but to go above and beyond for them. I am also setting an example for them to do and be their best, no matter how hard life gets. Since continuing my nursing studies at Drexel University, I have joined the National Student Nurses Association and the National Black Nurses Association. I believe that joining these associations will help me to grow and thrive as a nursing student. Networking and making connections with other nursing students and faculty will prove to be beneficial to my nursing career. I am also a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, Rho Upsilon Chapter. I am resilient, adaptable, and ambitious, and once I obtain my nursing degree, I choose to focus on Maternal/Fetal Health in disadvantaged communities. I want to help improve the safety and welfare of pregnant women through various preventative care measures. I hope to learn more about how I can incorporate reproductive health into my field of study, and how I can do more to advocate for women that do not have access to adequate health care. In ten years, I hope to complete my master’s degree in Nurse Midwifery. It is my dream to open a community center that serves women that do not have access to health care. With the right connections and support, I would provide family planning services, prenatal and postpartum care, nutritional services, breastfeeding support, preventative health screenings and treatment, as well as social services and counseling. I know this will require an abundance of resources and diligence, but I want to be a part of the movement that keeps my community healthy and safe. I believe that a career in nursing will be extremely rewarding, because I know I will have genuine opportunities to make a difference in the lives of many.

Throughout my life, there have been many experiences that have inspired me to become the woman that I am today. However, what inspires me and gives me the drive to further my education is my five wonderful children. As anyone can imagine, being a single parent requires an abundance of diligence, patience, strength, and sacrifice. Working twice as hard to make sure that all my children’s needs are met is certainly not an easy task. Along my journey, I have had moments where I have faced defeat and I had no desire to live in my true purpose. In 2017, I withdrew from school due to my extreme hardship in maintaining work/life balance. My children were having behavioral and learning difficulties, in which one of my sons was diagnosed with Autism. Additionally, my other children were diagnosed with ADHD. Although I had little support, I stepped up and advocated for my children. Now, each of my children have specialized therapeutic services, learning support plans, and tutoring services. My children are growing, thriving, and doing so much better in school. I did not give up on them because they deserve a quality education, regardless of their learning challenges. Subsequently, I had to evaluate myself as an individual. I wanted better for myself and my family, so I re-enrolled in school. In May 2021, I graduated from Community College of Philadelphia with an Associate in Arts in Healthcare Studies with Honor, and then I was accepted to Drexel University. However, before I began my nursing studies, my life took a traumatic turn. I was admitted to the ICU due to diabetic ketoacidosis. A few weeks after I was discharged, my children's father passed away from heart disease. These events have undoubtedly put my family through a mental, emotional, and financial strain. But my children watch my every move, and they depend on me for everything. So I have no choice but to be strong, and go above and beyond for them. I just completed my second quarter at Drexel University, and I plan to graduate in June 2023. Overall, continuing my education was the best decision that I have ever made. Eventually, I would like to become a Nurse Midwife. As well, I would like to open a community center that primarily serves women and families that do not have access to health care All my life, I have lived in urban communities where many families are underserved. Race, ethnicity, sex, income, and geographic location are just some of many dimensions of disparities that are prevalent. With the right connections and support, I would provide family planning services, prenatal and postpartum care, nutritional services, breastfeeding support, preventative health screenings and treatment, as well as social services and counseling. I know this will require an abundance of resources, diligence, and sacrifice, but I want to be a part of the movement that keeps my community healthy and safe.

In the words of the late Maya Angelou, “You may encounter defeats, but you must not be defeated. In fact, it may be necessary to encounter the defeats, so you can know who you are, what you can rise from, and how you can still come out of it.” Having the inspiration and the drive to achieve your goals is important because it helps you to maintain a positive mind and spirit as you grow through life. Of course, you will encounter some obstacles along the way, but it is the inspiration that carries you, and encourages you to keep pushing ahead. Throughout my life, there have been many experiences that have inspired me to become the woman that I am today. However, what inspires me and gives me the drive to further my education is my five wonderful children. As anyone can imagine, being a single parent requires an abundance of diligence, patience, strength, and sacrifice. Working twice as hard to make sure that all my children’s needs are met is certainly not an easy task. Along my journey, I have had moments where I have faced defeat and I had no desire to live in my true purpose. In 2017, I withdrew from school due to my extreme hardship in maintaining work/life balance. My children were having behavioral and learning difficulties, in which one of my sons was diagnosed with Autism. Additionally, my other children were diagnosed with ADHD. Although I had little support, I stepped up and advocated for my children. Now, each of my children have specialized therapeutic services, learning support plans, and tutoring services. My children are growing, thriving, and doing so much better in school. I did not give up on them because they deserve a quality education, regardless of their learning challenges. Subsequently, I had to evaluate myself as an individual. I wanted better for myself and my family, so I re-enrolled in school. In May 2021, I graduated from Community College of Philadelphia with an Associate in Arts in Healthcare Studies with Honor, and then I was accepted to Drexel University. However, before I began my nursing studies, my life took a traumatic turn. I was admitted to the ICU due to diabetic ketoacidosis. A few weeks after I was discharged, my children's father passed away. These events have undoubtedly put my family through a mental, emotional, and financial strain. But my children watch my every move, and they depend on me for everything. So I have no choice but to be strong, and go above and beyond for them. I just completed my second quarter at Drexel University, and I plan to graduate in June 2023. Overall, continuing my education was the best decision that I have ever made. Eventually, I would like to become a Nurse Midwife. As well, I would like to open a community center that primarily serves women and families that do not have access to health care All my life, I have lived in urban communities where many families are underserved. Race, ethnicity, sex, income, and geographic location are just some of many dimensions of disparities that are prevalent. With the right connections and support, I would provide family planning services, prenatal and postpartum care, nutritional services, breastfeeding support, preventative health screenings and treatment, as well as social services and counseling. I know this will require an abundance of resources, diligence, and sacrifice, but I want to be a part of the movement that keeps my community healthy and safe.

Most of my life, I have lived in urban areas where many families have not had access to quality medical care, health insurance, and other resources. Race, ethnicity, sex, income, and geographic location are just some of many dimensions of disparities that are prevalent. According to the Office of Minority Health, the death rate for African Americans is higher than whites for heart disease, stroke, cancer, asthma and pneumonia, diabetes, HIV/AIDS, and homicide. I have taken a special interest in community health because these issues have had an ongoing impact on my family as well as the surrounding areas of my neighborhood. I have had the experience of working in various health centers all over the city of Philadelphia. These health centers served the immigrants and non-English speaking populations, as well as people that were in desperate need of medical care but had little to no income. I enjoyed my encounters with patients from various levels of society. These experiences helped me to gain cultural competence. I learned that the ability to understand, effectively communicate, and interact with people across cultures entails awareness of a patient’s customs, beliefs, actions, thoughts, and values. As an individual, I also became more aware of my own attitudes and tendencies. In doing so, I acquired a knowledge base of cultures in my service area in conjunction with various healthcare practices and beliefs. More recently, I had the pleasure of volunteering. I found the opportunities to be very enlightening. I served at the University Lutheran Church, where hot meals are prepared and given to the homeless. As well, I volunteered for the Share Program by calling individuals to confirm their food basket deliveries. In doing so, I noticed that the food baskets were being delivered to senior citizens that resided in the urban areas of Southwest and North Philadelphia. Those are just a couple of low-income areas in Philadelphia that struggle with food insecurity. In conjunction with my current nursing studies, I would also like to take up a minor in Public Health. Eventually, I would like to become a Nurse Midwife. As well, I would like to open a community center that primarily serves women and families that do not have access to health care. With the right connections and support, I would provide family planning services, prenatal and postpartum care, nutritional services, breastfeeding support, preventative health screenings and treatment, as well as social services and counseling. I know this will require an abundance of resources, diligence, and sacrifice, but I want to be a part of the movement that keeps my community healthy and safe.

Most of my life, I have lived in urban areas where many families have not had access to quality medical care, health insurance, and other resources. Race, ethnicity, sex, income, and geographic location are just some of many dimensions of disparities that are prevalent. According to the Office of Minority Health, the death rate for African Americans is higher than whites for heart disease, stroke, cancer, asthma and pneumonia, diabetes, HIV/AIDS, and homicide. I have taken a special interest in community health because these issues have had an ongoing impact on my family as well as the surrounding areas of my neighborhood. I have had the experience of working in various health centers all over the city of Philadelphia. These health centers served the immigrants and non-English speaking populations, as well as people that were in desperate need of medical care but had little to no income. I enjoyed my encounters with patients from various levels of society. These experiences helped me to gain cultural competence. I learned that the ability to understand, effectively communicate, and interact with people across cultures entails awareness of a patient’s customs, beliefs, actions, thoughts, and values. As an individual, I also became more aware of my own attitudes and tendencies. In doing so, I acquired a knowledge base of cultures in my service area in conjunction with various healthcare practices and beliefs. More recently, I had the pleasure of volunteering. I found the opportunities to be very enlightening. I served at the University Lutheran Church, where hot meals are prepared and given to the homeless. As well, I volunteered for the Share Program by calling individuals to confirm their food basket deliveries. In doing so, I noticed that the food baskets were being delivered to senior citizens that resided in the urban areas of Southwest and North Philadelphia. Those are just a couple of low-income areas in Philadelphia that struggle with food insecurity. In conjunction with my current nursing studies, I would also like to take up a minor in Public Health. Eventually, I would like to become a Nurse Midwife. As well, I would like to open a community center that primarily serves women and families that do not have access to health care. With the right connections and support, I would provide family planning services, prenatal and postpartum care, nutritional services, breastfeeding support, preventative health screenings and treatment, as well as social services and counseling. I know this will require an abundance of resources, diligence, and sacrifice, but I want to be a part of the movement that keeps my community healthy and safe.

Throughout my life, there have been many experiences that have inspired me to become the woman that I am today. However, above anything or anyone, my five children are my greatest inspiration. Undoubtedly, single parenting requires an abundance of diligence, patience, and sacrifice. Every single moment of my life revolves around my children, as they are my top priority. Working twice as hard to make sure that all of my children’s needs are met is certainly not an easy task. There have been moments where I let guilt, doubt, and anxiety consume me, and I had no desire to live in my true purpose. Even so, I never gave up. In 2017, I withdrew from school due to my extreme hardship in maintaining work/life balance. My children were having behavioral and learning difficulties, in which one of my sons was diagnosed with Autism. Additionally, my other children were diagnosed with ADHD. Although I had very little support, I stepped up and advocated for my children. Now, each of my children have specialized therapeutic services, learning support plans, and tutoring services. They are growing, thriving, and doing so much better in school. I didn’t give up on them because they deserve a quality education, regardless of their learning challenges. All things considered, I had to resign from my full-time job as a medical assistant in order to begin my nursing studies at Drexel University. This was an arduous decision that I had to make, however, I know that it will prove to be beneficial in the near future. This scholarship will help with tuition, and any additional fees, books, and other expenses. Continuing my education was the best decision that I have ever made. My children watch my every move, and they depend on me for everything. So, I have no choice but to go above and beyond for them. I am also setting an example for them to do and be their best, no matter how hard life gets. I am resilient, adaptable, and ambitious. I am currently pursuing my Bachelor's of Science in Nursing at Drexel University. The area of nursing that I choose to focus on is Maternal/Fetal Health in disadvantaged communities. I want to help improve the safety and welfare of pregnant women through various preventative care measures. I hope to learn more about how I can incorporate reproductive health into my field of study, and how I can do more to advocate for women that do not have access to adequate health care. Since beginning my nursing studies at Drexel University, I have joined the National Student Nurses Association. In January, I also plan to join the National Black Nurses Association. I believe that joining these associations will help me to grow and thrive as a nursing student. Networking and making connections with other nursing students and faculty will prove to be very beneficial to my nursing career. I am also a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, Rho Upsilon Chapter. Currently, I have completed my first quarter at Drexel University. I am on the Dean’s List, and I have a 3.71 GPA. I also plan to continue my education and complete my Master’s degree in Nurse Midwifery. I believe that a career in nursing will be extremely rewarding, because I know I will have genuine opportunities to make a difference in the lives of many.

Nurses are primarily responsible for providing direct patient care in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, and community settings. As well, the field of nursing has advanced tremendously over the years. It goes far beyond just becoming a registered nurse. There are nurse anesthetists, nurse midwives, and even Doctor of Nursing practice. As the population’s healthcare needs have increased and the healthcare system has changed, there has been an increasing need for nurses. The area of nursing that I choose to focus on is Maternal/Fetal Health in disadvantaged communities. I chose this specialty because I want to help improve the safety and welfare of pregnant women through various preventative care measures. I hope to learn more about how I can incorporate reproductive health into my field of study, and how I can do more to advocate for women that do not have access to adequate health care. Most of my life, I have lived in urban areas where many families do not have access to quality medical care. Race, ethnicity, sex, income, and geographic location are just some of many dimensions of disparities that are prevalent. Preferably, I would like to serve women in need of prenatal and postpartum care. According to the National Committee for Quality Assurance, studies show that about 60% of all pregnancy-related deaths could be prevented if women had better access to healthcare, received better quality of care and made changes in their health and lifestyle habits. A pregnancy –related death is the death of a woman during pregnancy or within one year of the end of pregnancy from a pregnancy complication, a chain of events initiated by pregnancy, or the aggravation of an unrelated condition by the physiologic effects of pregnancy. Factors that contribute to pregnancy-related deaths include access to care, older maternal age, missed or delayed diagnoses, or women not recognizing significant warning signs. Currently, pregnancy related deaths are on the rise. The most recent United States maternal mortality rate of 17.4 per 100,000 pregnancies represented approximately 660 maternal deaths in 2018. As well, race and ethnicity are also a major factor in pregnancy-related deaths. According to the National Vital Statistics System, in 2019, the maternal mortality rate for non-Hispanic Black women was 44.0 deaths per 100,000 live births, 2.5 times the rate for non-Hispanic white women (17.9) and 3.5 times the rate for Hispanic women. While pregnancy-related deaths in the United States is progressing, I would like to help promote change in the state of Pennsylvania. As a nurse specializing in maternal health care, I hope to join the Pennsylvania Maternal Mortality Review Committee. The goal of this committee is to systemically review all maternal deaths, identify root causes of these deaths and develop strategies to reduce preventable morbidity, mortality and racial disparities related to pregnancy in Pennsylvania. As well, I would like to become a Nurse Midwife and open a women and children's community health center. With the right connections and support, I would provide family planning services, prenatal and postpartum care, nutritional services, breastfeeding support, preventative health screenings and treatment, as well as social services and counseling. I know this will require an abundance of resources, diligence, and sacrifice, but I want to be a part of the movement that keeps my community healthy and safe.

As the population’s healthcare needs have increased and the healthcare system has changed, there has been an increasing need for nurses. The area of nursing that I choose to focus on is Maternal/Fetal Health in underserved communities. I chose this specialty because I want to help improve the safety and welfare of pregnant women through various preventative care measures. I hope to learn more about how I can incorporate reproductive health into my field of study, and how I can do more to advocate for women that do not have access to adequate health care. Most of my life, I have lived in urban areas where many families do not have access to quality medical care. Race, ethnicity, sex, income, and geographic location are just some of many dimensions of disparities that are prevalent. Preferably, I would like to serve women in need of prenatal and postpartum care. While pregnancy-related deaths in the United States is progressing, I would like to help promote change in the state of Pennsylvania. As a nurse specializing in maternal health care, I hope to join the Pennsylvania Maternal Mortality Review Committee. The goal of this committee is to systemically review all maternal deaths, identify root causes of these deaths and develop strategies to reduce preventable morbidity, mortality and racial disparities related to pregnancy in Pennsylvania. As well, I would like to become a Nurse Midwife and open a women and children's community center. With the right connections and support, I would provide family planning services, prenatal and postpartum care, nutritional services, breastfeeding support, preventative health screenings and treatment, as well as social services and counseling. I know this will require an abundance of resources, diligence, and sacrifice, but I want to be a part of the movement that keeps my community healthy and safe.

In the words of the late Maya Angelou, “You may encounter defeats, but you must not be defeated. In fact, it may be necessary to encounter the defeats, so you can know who you are, what you can rise from, and how you can still come out of it.” Having the inspiration and the drive to achieve your goals is important because it helps you to maintain a positive mind and spirit as you grow through life. Of course, you will encounter some obstacles along the way, but it is the inspiration that carries you, and encourages you to keep pushing ahead. Throughout my life, there have been many experiences that have inspired me to become the woman that I am today. However, what inspires me and gives me the drive to further my education is my five wonderful children. As anyone can imagine, being a single parent requires an abundance of diligence, patience, strength, and sacrifice. Working twice as hard to make sure that all my children’s needs are met is certainly not an easy task. Along my journey, I have had moments where I have faced defeat and I had no desire to live in my true purpose. In 2017, I withdrew from school due to my extreme hardship in maintaining work/life balance. My children were having behavioral and learning difficulties, in which one of my sons was diagnosed with Autism. Additionally, my other children were diagnosed with ADHD. Although I had very little support, I stepped up and advocated for my children. Now, each of my children have specialized therapeutic services, learning support plans, and tutoring services. My children are growing, thriving, and doing so much better in school. I didn’t give up on them because they deserve a quality education, regardless of their learning challenges. Subsequently, I had to evaluate myself as an individual. I wanted better for myself and my family, so I re-enrolled in school. In doing so, I recently graduated from Community College of Philadelphia with an Associate in Arts in Healthcare Studies with Honor. I am a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, and I was accepted into Drexel University College of Nursing and Health Professions. My goal is to obtain my Bachelor of Science in Nursing. All things considered, in order for me to continue to pursue my life's calling, I will have to resign from my full-time job as a medical assistant. This was an arduous decision that I had to make, however, I know that it will prove to be beneficial in the near future. This scholarship will help with tuition, and any additional fees and expenses. Continuing my education was the best decision that I have ever made. My children watch my every move, and they depend on me for everything. So, I have no choice but to go above and beyond for them. I am also setting an example for them to do and be their best, no matter how hard life gets.

In the words of the late Maya Angelou, “You may encounter defeats, but you must not be defeated. In fact, it may be necessary to encounter the defeats, so you can know who you are, what you can rise from, and how you can still come out of it.” Having the inspiration and the drive to achieve your goals is important because it helps you to maintain a positive mind and spirit as you grow through life. Of course, you will encounter some obstacles along the way, but it is the inspiration that carries you, and encourages you to keep pushing ahead. Throughout my life, there have been many experiences that have inspired me to become the woman that I am today. However, what inspires me and gives me the drive to further my education is my five wonderful children. As anyone can imagine, being a single parent requires an abundance of diligence, patience, strength, and sacrifice. Working twice as hard to make sure that all my children’s needs are met is certainly not an easy task. Along my journey, I have had moments where I have faced defeat and I had no desire to live in my true purpose. In 2017, I withdrew from school due to my extreme hardship in maintaining work/life balance. My children were having behavioral and learning difficulties, in which one of my sons was diagnosed with Autism. Additionally, my other children were diagnosed with ADHD. Although I had very little support, I stepped up and advocated for my children. Now, each of my children have specialized therapeutic services, learning support plans, and tutoring services. My children are growing, thriving, and doing so much better in school. I didn’t give up on them because they deserve a quality education, regardless of their learning challenges. Subsequently, I had to evaluate myself as an individual. I wanted better for myself and my family, so I re-enrolled in school. In doing so, I recently graduated from Community College of Philadelphia with an Associate in Arts in Healthcare Studies with Honor. I am a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, and I was accepted into Drexel University College of Nursing and Health Professions. My goal is to obtain my Bachelor of Science in Nursing. All things considered, in order for me to continue to pursue my life's calling, I will have to resign from my full-time job as a medical assistant. This was an arduous decision that I had to make, however, I know that it will prove to be beneficial in the near future. This scholarship will help with tuition, and any additional fees and expenses. Continuing my education was the best decision that I have ever made. My children watch my every move, and they depend on me for everything. So, I have no choice but to go above and beyond for them. I am also setting an example for them to do and be their best, no matter how hard life gets.

Someone said to me, "I don't know how you do it." I replied, "I wasn't given a choice." As a single mother of five young children, every moment of my life revolves around them, as they are my top priority. Undoubtedly, parenting requires an abundance of diligence, patience, strength, and sacrifice. Having to work twice as hard to make sure that all of my children’s needs are met is certainly not an easy task. Month to month, I often struggle to make ends meet. Providing for five growing children with only my income, I’m always falling behind on my bills. Oftentimes I feel like I’m not doing enough for my children. But when I come home from work, their smiling faces are the first thing I see. They inspire me and give me the drive to move forward and continue my education. Along my journey, I faced many hardships which compelled me to practically give up and quit. The only person that stayed in my corner every step of the way was my mother. She has been there to support me, encourage me, advise me, and love me unconditionally. In 2017, my son was admitted to the crisis inpatient unit. He had just started kindergarten, and he was having extreme difficulties adjusting to his new surroundings. My phone was constantly buzzing from the numerous calls and text messages from his teachers. The one call that impelled me to take him to the hospital is when he threatened to harm himself. He was 6 years old at the time, how did he even know what that meant? I was petrified, however, I knew that I needed to get him some help. I couldn’t possibly continue school at that point, so I had to withdraw. My child was more important. After about a month of therapy, psychological evaluations, and medication adjustments, my son was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder and he was released to come home. Once I notified his school of the diagnosis, an IEP was initiated immediately. My son received specialized therapeutic services, learning support plans, and tutoring services. Although kindergarten got off to a rough start, my son had a strong finish. Currently, he is getting ready to go to the fourth grade. He is growing, thriving, and doing so much better in school. I didn’t give up on my son because he deserves a quality education, regardless of his learning challenges. I am so proud of the progress that he is making. He says he wants to be a doctor when he grows up. Watching my son overcome his obstacles is what prompted me to evaluate myself as an individual. I knew I wanted better for myself and for my family, so I re-enrolled in school. In doing so, I recently graduated from Community College of Philadelphia with an Associate in Arts in Healthcare Studies with Honor. I am also a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, and I was accepted into Drexel University College of Nursing and Health Professions. I will begin my nursing coursework this fall, and my goal is to obtain my Bachelor of Science in Nursing. As a nurse, I would like to advocate and provide Prenatal and Postpartum care for women who live in underprivileged localities. I also plan to continue my education and complete my Master’s degree in Nurse-Midwifery. I believe that a career in nursing will be very rewarding because I know that I will have genuine opportunities to make a difference in the lives of many. Currently, I am employed at Thomas Jefferson University, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center as a Certified Medical Assistant. I directly aid the Breast Cancer team and the Head, Neck, and Lung Cancer team. Each of the care teams that I work with is nothing short of amazing. The doctors, nurse practitioners, and other healthcare staff are empathetic and attentive to each patient. I have a special connection with every single one. The patients are so appreciative of me, even for the simple things like making them a cup of coffee or checking their blood pressure. Working with the Oncology population has made me appreciate how lucky I am to be happy and healthy, but it also has taught me that my goal to become a nurse is even closer within my reach. It has also impelled me to become resilient and adaptable. The patient’s health is of the utmost priority, and I admire seeing the nurses teach the patients to understand their own needs. As I take this journey in becoming a nurse, I will strive to provide excellent continuity of care, while upholding both ethical and moral standards. All things considered, in order for me to continue to pursue my life's calling, I will have to resign from my full-time job as a Certified Medical Assistant. This was an arduous decision that I had to make, however, I know that it will prove to be beneficial in the near future. This scholarship will help with tuition, and any additional fees and expenses. Continuing my education was the best decision that I have ever made. My children watch my every move, and they depend on me for everything. So, I have no choice but to go above and beyond for them. I am also setting an example for them to do and be their best, no matter how hard life gets.

In the words of the late Maya Angelou, “You may encounter defeats, but you must not be defeated. In fact, it may be necessary to encounter the defeats, so you can know who you are, what you can rise from, and how you can still come out of it.” Having the inspiration and the drive to achieve your goals is important because it helps you to maintain a positive mind and spirit as you grow through life. Of course you will encounter some obstacles along the way, but it is the inspiration that carries you, and encourages you to keep pushing ahead. Throughout my life, there have been many experiences that have inspired me to become the woman that I am today. However, what inspires me and gives me the drive to further my education is my five wonderful children. As anyone can imagine, being a single parent requires an abundance of diligence, patience, strength, and sacrifice. Working twice as hard to make sure that all of my children’s needs are met is certainly not an easy task. Along my journey, I have had moments where I have faced defeat and I had no desire to live in my true purpose. In 2017, I withdrew from school due to my extreme hardship in maintaining work/life balance. My children were having behavioral and learning difficulties, in which one of my sons was diagnosed with Autism. Additionally, my other children were diagnosed with ADHD. Although I had very little support, I stepped up and advocated for my children. Now, each of my children have specialized therapeutic services, learning support plans, and tutoring services. My children are growing, thriving, and doing so much better in school. I didn’t give up on them because they deserve a quality education, regardless of their learning challenges. Subsequently, I had to evaluate myself as an individual. I wanted better for myself and my family, so I re-enrolled in school. In doing so, I recently graduated from Community College of Philadelphia with an Associate in Arts in Healthcare Studies with Honor. I am a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, and I was accepted into Drexel University College of Nursing and Health Professions. My goal is to obtain my Bachelor of Science in Nursing. All things considered, in order for me to continue to pursue my life's calling, I will have to resign from my full time job as a medical assistant. This was an arduous decision that I had to make, however, I know that it will prove to be beneficial in the near future. This scholarship will help with tuition, and any additional fees and expenses. Continuing my education was the best decision that I have ever made. My children watch my every move, and they depend on me for everything. So, I have no choice but to go above and beyond for them. I am also setting an example for them to do and be their best, no matter how hard life gets.

Most of my life, I have lived in urban areas where many families do not have access to quality medical care. Race, ethnicity, sex, income, and geographic location are just some of many dimensions of disparities that are prevalent all over the world. Preferably, I would like to serve women in need of prenatal and postpartum care. According to the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), studies show that about 60% of all pregnancy-related deaths could be prevented if women had better access to healthcare, received better quality of care and made changes in their health and lifestyle habits. As a nurse, I would like to be an advocate and provide quality care for patients in localities that are underprivileged. Becoming a nurse will not be just a job for me, by my life’s calling. As well, I have worked in the healthcare field for over seventeen years. I can recall assisting patients at community health centers in the areas of Frankford, South Philadelphia, and Southwest Philadelphia. These health centers served the immigrants and non-English speaking populations, as well as people that were in desperate need of medical care but had little to no income. I enjoyed my encounters with patients from various walks of life. These experiences helped me to gain cultural competence. I learned that the ability to understand, effectively communicate, and interact with people across cultures entails awareness of a patient’s customs, beliefs, actions, thoughts, and values. As an individual, I also became more aware of my own attitudes and tendencies. In doing so, I acquired a knowledge base of cultures in my service area in conjunction with various healthcare practices and beliefs. Currently, I am employed at Thomas Jefferson University, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center as a Certified Medical Assistant. I directly aid the Breast Cancer team and the Head, Neck, and Lung Cancer team. Each of the care teams that I work with are nothing short of amazing. The doctors, nurse practitioners, and other healthcare staff are empathetic and attentive to each patient. I feel like I have a special connection with every single one. The patients are so appreciative of me, even for the simple things like making them a cup of coffee or checking their blood pressure. Working with the Oncology population has made me appreciate how lucky I am to be happy and healthy, but it also has taught me that my goal to become a nurse is even closer within my reach. It has also impelled me to become resilient and adaptable. The patient’s health is of the utmost priority, and I admire seeing the nurses teach the patients to understand their own needs. As I take this journey in becoming a nurse, I will strive to provide excellent continuity of care, while upholding both ethical and moral standards.

A few weeks ago, I was engaged in a conversation with someone, and she asked me, “What do you want for your children?” She wasn’t asking in terms of material possessions, but rather in the matters of their future. As a single mother of five young children, every moment of my life revolves around them, as they are my top priority. Of course, I want my children to acquire as much knowledge as possible, and be happy, successful, respectable human beings in society. However, I also want them to understand the importance of compassion, self-respect, and creativity. As anyone can imagine, being a single parent requires an abundance of diligence, patience, strength, and sacrifice. Having to work twice as hard, and making sure all of their needs are met, is certainly not an easy task. Along my journey, I faced many hardships which compelled me to practically give up and quit. In 2017, I withdrew from school, due to my extreme difficulties maintaining work/life balance. I was unsure of myself, and I had become complacent with no desire to go any further in my career. My children were having behavioral and learning difficulties, in which one of my sons was diagnosed with Autism. In addition, my other children were diagnosed with ADHD. Even though I had very little support, I stepped up and advocated for my children. I was able to get specialized therapeutic services, learning support plans, and tutoring services put in place for each of them. My children are growing, thriving, and doing so much better in school. I didn’t give up on them because they deserve a quality education, regardless of their learning challenges. Subsequently, I also had to evaluate myself as an individual. I wanted better for myself and for my family, so I re-enrolled in school. In doing so, I recently graduated from Community College of Philadelphia with an Associate in Arts in Healthcare Studies with Honor. I am also a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, Rho Upsilon Chapter. Additionally, I was accepted into Drexel University College of Nursing and Health Professions. I will begin my nursing coursework this fall, and my goal is to obtain my Bachelor of Science in Nursing. As a nurse, I would like to be an advocate and provide quality care for patients in localities that are underprivileged. Preferably, I would like to serve women in need of Prenatal and Postpartum Care. I also plan to further my education and complete my Master’s degree in Nurse Midwifery. I believe that a career in nursing will be very rewarding, because I know I will have genuine opportunities to make a difference in the lives of many. In retrospect, 4 years ago, I couldn’t see myself doing the things that I am doing now. I was the only person getting in the way of fulfilling my calling. I truly believe that I deserve this scholarship because my relentlessness has manifested in my ability to move forward and overcome the many obstacles that I faced. Regardless of my hardships, my irrefutable resilience has shown that my past does not define me or my future. All things considered, in order for me to continue to pursue my life's calling, I will have to resign from my full time job as a Certified Medical Assistant. This was an arduous decision that I had to make, however, I know that it will prove to be beneficial in the near future. This scholarship will help with tuition, and any additional fees and expenses. Continuing my education was the best decision that I have ever made. My children watch my every move, and they depend on me for everything. So, I have no choice but to go above and beyond for them. I am also setting an example for them to do and be their best, no matter how hard life gets.

Nurses are the front-line representatives of any healthcare system. In many healthcare facilities, from clinics to emergency rooms, nurses are the first medical professional that patients encounter. Whether for routine care or on the worst day of their lives, nurses can ascertain how to coordinate resources in the patient’s best interest. As well, nurses play a key role as patient advocates, in making sure that the patient’s needs are effectively prioritized. Being responsible for so many aspects of patient care and advocacy means that compassion, attention to detail, and a passion for life-long learning are required. Providing care to underserved communities specifically aligns with my aspiration to become a nurse. Most of my life, I have lived in urban areas where many families do not have access to quality medical care. Race, ethnicity, sex, income, and geographic location are just some of many dimensions of disparities that are prevalent. Preferably, I would like to serve women in need of prenatal and postpartum care. According to the National Committee for Quality Assurance, studies show that about 60% of all pregnancy-related deaths could be prevented if women had better access to healthcare, received better quality of care and made changes in their health and lifestyle habits (NCQA, 2020). As a nurse, I would like to be an advocate and provide quality care for patients in localities that are underprivileged. Becoming a nurse will not be just a job for me, by my life’s calling. On a more personal level, I am a mother to five beautiful children. As anyone can imagine, being a single parent of five children can be incredibly stressful. Having to work twice as hard to provide for them is not an easy task. I faced many hardships which compelled me to practically give up and quit. In 2017, I withdrew from my studies due to extreme difficulties maintaining work/life balance, and I had no desire to further my career. My children were having behavioral and learning difficulties, in which one of my sons was diagnosed with autism. Additionally, my other children were diagnosed with ADHD. Although I had very little support, I stepped up and advocated for my children. I didn’t give up on them because they deserve a quality education, regardless of their learning challenges.  Subsequently, I had to evaluate myself as an individual. I wanted better for myself and my family, so I returned to school. My relentlessness was manifested in my ability to move forward and overcome the many obstacles that I faced. I recently graduated from Community College of Philadelphia with my Associate in Arts in Healthcare Studies with Honor. I am also a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, Rho Upsilon Chapter. By obtaining my degree and becoming a nurse, I will be able to provide my children with a better life and open more doors of opportunity for them. My children are undoubtedly my inspiration to continue my education. I am also setting an example for them to do and be their best, no matter how hard life gets. They depend on me for everything, and I cannot let them down. My goal is to obtain my Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Drexel University. After obtaining my degree, Maternal/Fetal Medicine and Postpartum Care will be my main scope of practice. After gaining experience as a nurse, I also plan to continue my education and complete my Master’s degree in Nurse Midwifery. I believe that a nursing career will be very rewarding, because I know that I will have genuine opportunities to make a difference in the lives of many.

Working in the healthcare field for over seventeen years as a Medical Assistant has well prepared me for this journey to become a nurse. In 2004, I completed the Medical Assistant program at Thompson Institute. I then moved on to complete 160 externship hours at the local family practice, Grays Ferry Medical. This medical practice served the disadvantaged areas in the community. During my externship, I was provided the opportunity to use all the clinical and administrative skills that I learned during the training program in practical situations. I gained my experience in implementing patient care by adequately assessing and educating patients, collecting blood specimens, administering vaccines, and aiding the doctor with procedures such as gynecological exams. After my externship, I began working at a small primary care office in West Philadelphia. This office generally offered services to individuals with state insurance coverage or Medicare. The doctor also provided free medications for patients that had high blood pressure and diabetes but could not afford to pay for their prescriptions. I have also worked in various specialties such as Obstetrics and Gynecology, Pediatrics, and Internal Medicine. I can recall assisting patients at community health centers in the areas of Frankford, South Philadelphia, and Southwest Philadelphia. These health centers served the immigrants and non-English speaking populations, as well as people that were in desperate need of medical care but had little to no income. I enjoyed my encounters with patients from various walks of life. These experiences helped me to gain cultural competence. I learned that the ability to understand, effectively communicate, and interact with people across cultures entails awareness of a patient’s customs, beliefs, actions, thoughts, and values. As an individual, I also became more aware of my own attitudes and tendencies. In doing so, I acquired a knowledge base of cultures in my service area in conjunction with various healthcare practices and beliefs. Currently, I am employed at Thomas Jefferson University, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center as a Medical Assistant. I directly aid the Breast Cancer team and the Head, Neck, and Lung Cancer team. Each of the care teams that I work with are nothing short of amazing. The doctors, nurse practitioners, and other healthcare staff are empathetic and attentive to each patient. I have a special connection with every single one. The patients are so appreciative of me, even for the simple things like making them a cup of coffee or checking their blood pressure. Working with the Oncology population has made me appreciate how lucky I am to be happy and healthy, but it also has taught me that my goal to become a nurse is even closer within my reach. It has also impelled me to become resilient and adaptable. The patient’s health is of the utmost priority, and I admire seeing the nurses teach the patients to understand their own needs. As I take this journey in becoming a nurse, I will strive to provide excellent continuity of care, while upholding both ethical and moral standards.