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Elise Bankston

575

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1x

Finalist

Bio

In my junior year, I am currently attending Merancas Middle College High School. I am dedicated to my passion for healthcare and a clear goal to become a Nurse Practitioner. Inspired by my own experiences with healthcare professionals during a family member's illness, I am driven to make a positive impact on the lives of others through compassionate and skilled patient care. As a dual enrollment student, I am motivated to work through my rigorous academic pursuits and involvement in science clubs has nurtured my curiosity and commitment to the medical field. 

Education

Merancas Middle College High

High School
2023 - 2025

Phillip O Berry Academy of Technology

High School
2021 - 2023

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Doctoral degree program (PhD, MD, JD, etc.)

  • Majors of interest:

    • Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Hospital & Health Care

    • Dream career goals:

      Nurse Practitioner

    • Cashier

      Mcdonald's
      2022 – Present2 years

    Sports

    Volleyball

    Junior Varsity
    2022 – Present2 years

    Arts

    • Visual Arts
      2021 – Present

    Future Interests

    Advocacy

    Volunteering

    Philanthropy

    Entrepreneurship

    Netflix and Scholarships!
    In the vast landscape of Netflix, there are a few hidden rare gems that stand out for their ability to captivate audiences and immerse them in a compelling narrative. Among these gems, "Arcane" shines brightly, drawing viewers into its world with breathtaking visuals, intricate storytelling, and profound character development. Set in the expansive universe of League of Legends, "Arcane" transcends its gaming origins to deliver a gripping tale that resonates on multiple levels. "Arcane" has incredibly beautiful animation that you won't find in many other shows. Everything from the bustling streets adorned with steampunk-inspired architecture to the neon-lit alleys teeming with life, each place feels alive and brimming with personality. A standout scene occurs when the bustling streets of Piltover seamlessly transition into the neon-lit alleys of Zaun, blending traditional 2D artistry with cutting-edge CGI techniques to create a visually stunning and immersive experience. However, "Arcane" is not just eye candy; it also delves deep into the psyche of its characters, exploring themes of trauma, redemption, and the consequences. At the heart of the story is Jinx, the main character whose descent into madness is based on the iconic comic book villain, the Joker. At its core, the series begins with the lives of sisters Vi and Powder, who are struggling to survive in the harsh streets of Zaun (a poor underground city). Their bond is tested as they navigate the dangers of their environment, with Vi taking on the role of protector while Powder, later known as Jinx, deals with her own insecurities. Jinx's journey is one of pain and trauma, as she grapples with the loss of her family and the scars of her past. Her character is a testament to the real psychology behind the show, as it examines how trauma can shape and distort one's perception of reality. Trauma is a central theme that permeates throughout "Arcane," affecting each character in profound ways. From Vi and Powder's struggle to survive in the harsh streets of Zaun to Viktor's relentless pursuit of scientific progress, the characters are all shaped by their past experiences and the traumas they have endured. This exploration of trauma adds depth and complexity to the characters, making them feel like real individuals grappling with their own inner demons. However, despite its dark themes, "Arcane" is also a masterclass in storytelling, expertly weaving together elements of mystery, suspense, and drama to keep viewers on the edge of their seats. As the plot unfolds you realize how much everything is connected. Whether it's the power struggles between rivals or the personal vendettas that drive the characters forward, every aspect of the story is carefully crafted to keep viewers engaged and invested in the outcome. "Arcane" also doesn't shy away from tackling relevant social issues, using its fantastical setting as a backdrop to explore themes of class disparity, prejudice, and the corrupting influence of power. The series offers a compelling reflection on the human condition through its complex portrayal of society, encouraging viewers to consider both their own lives and the world around them. In conclusion, "Arcane" is a transcendent work of art that defies expectations and demands to be experienced. With its stunning animation, compelling characters, and thought-provoking themes, the series offers an immersive journey unlike any other. Whether you're a fan of League of Legends or want to appreciate a well-crafted story or if you just want an action show, "Arcane" has something for everyone. So, clear your schedule, grab some snacks, and prepare to dive into an unforgettable adventure into the heart of Piltover and Zaun. You won't regret it.
    Taylor Swift ‘1989’ Fan Scholarship
    My favorite track from Taylor Swift's 1989 album is "Out of the Woods". The song is about a relationship that was on the verge of ending and the relief that came with it. Swift stated, "The song is about the fragility and breakable nature of some relationships," in an interview with Rolling Stone. It was a song about the anxiety I was experiencing at the time, but it was also somewhat optimistic. The emotional intensity of the song is apparent, speaking as someone who has been in a challenging relationship. Taylor Swift claimed in an interview that the frenzied, repeated chorus is a means for her to communicate her anxieties. It is a paranoid musical expression. Swift's paranoia, in my opinion, stems more from a nostalgic fear that a wonderful thing might go in an instant. the worry brought on by some partnerships' vulnerability to breakup. Taylor emphasized the thrill of the screaming color, but for me, when she added, "...but we were in screaming color," that symbolizes being different in a negative way. The screaming color in my relationship represented enmity and wrath. The typical relationship between parents and their children seems admirable to the rest of the world. Where they experience love, I experience teasing, humiliation, threats, rejection, and unkind criticism. She could quit a failing relationship, something you might have thought you could never do, but she felt compelled to continue. She was terrified of what lay outside the relationship, which prevented her from leaving him, but in the end she discovered that what lay outside was not as horrible as she had originally believed. "She lost him, but she found herself, and that was somehow everything." The path to healing and rehabilitation can be challenging, but ultimately empowering and liberating. From living on eggshells and always on alert for potential triggers or indicators of danger to finally breaking free and reclaiming a sense of safety, security, and control over one's life. Swift displays an almost hypervigilant level of frequent scanning of her surroundings in the song video. But in the conclusion, the camera pans out to show her standing tall and assured, signifying her path to recovery and self-discovery. demonstrating to her audience the importance of confidence. I'm glad to announce that I'm starting to find my footing, even though I may not yet be able to stand tall and self-assured. Although it takes time and work to recover from past traumas and develop a better sense of self, I am making progress every day. Even though there may still be times of uncertainty and insecurity, I am confident that with patience and assistance. Even though it wasn't ideal, it had to happen since otherwise I would have been demotivated. Although going through difficult times might be stressful and hurtful, it can also be a chance to develop and learn. Although it's tempting to desire for a second chance in retrospect, where would I be without it? To be honest, I do want to go back, but I'm scared of the future and wonder, "What if?" What would my current position be like if the butterfly effect hadn't occurred is the topic of discussion. Even though I wish it had never happened, thinking about it makes me more appreciative of what I have right now. I am content with my life, myself, and the people around me.
    She Rose in STEAM Scholarship
    Despite public policy not being defined as a social science, it is related to various forms of social sciences, such as political science and psychology to develop its evidence base for policy development. When people think of health, they usually think of physical health. Yet health also includes emotional, social, spiritual, and intellectual well-being. Therefore, in current times when desiring to be a social advocate, I will need to be able to identify and understand different racial inequalities and injustices within society. Along with being open to different beliefs and foundations. As an inspiring double major in Nursing and Public Policy, I believe that I will have many opportunities and a well-informed understanding of how to treat different types of health issues, whether they are social, emotional, spiritual, physical, or intellectual. Nowadays you have to understand racial inequalities and injustices, including the systemic racism that exists within the medical industry. As a nurse practitioner, it will be my responsibility to ensure that I do my part in combating health inequalities, which will overall improve minority health. When minorities walk into a healthcare facility they are immediately ambushed by different racial stereotypes. Some examples include angry black women, violent black men, Indian savages, feisty Latina, and many other stereotypes. This has led to beliefs that minorities are less intelligent, less likely to take treatment (or generally hard to work with), bypass surgery, and have a general lack of respect for minority patients. Healthcare providers are often busy people who, like most of us, use stereotypes because they’re faster. However, moving too fast in certain situations-especially the medical field- are not always the best idea, and could be potentially dangerous. By acquiring both degrees, I will have a basic understanding of one’s culture, and individual patients, remain neutral, and ask instead of assuming. I would be able to help dismantle barriers that keep them from getting the best treatment. When dealing with minorities during social reform, you will need people who are well-positioned to build relationships and trust and are representatives of their communities. Along with this, they will need to have good communication skills that will allow people to feel comfortable when responding to resonating questions, such as financial insecurities. When having an intimate conversation with people from different backgrounds, it makes you not only notice topics that may have been overlooked but also be able to come up with variable solutions. And it is statistically proven that the better someone is doing socially, the better their mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. To improve intellectual health, it will be a good idea to hold local lectures to address and inform people about different issues. Along with, providing them with different ways to help combat different systemic issues. An interesting lecture topic could be hospital anxiety. The lecture can include; a brief overview of what hospital anxiety is plus ways to overcome hospital anxiety and how hospitals are trying to lessen hospital anxiety. Another way to help raise awareness has more to do with inside the system. As a healthcare professional, who is also involved with politics, I will likely be the most equipped to provide information on how to conduct screenings (which could include; utility needs, food insecurity, housing insecurity, financial insecurity, and transportation needs) and create care plans that will work with the patient's lifestyle, yet will still prioritize specific health disparities when connected with networks of screening agencies to give helpful feedback that will offer services and resources to appropriately serve the community.
    Sikora Drake STEM Scholarship
    I wholeheartedly believe that nursing should be considered STEM because it requires you to apply math, biology, and technology, plus the data collection that is a keystone for research. For example, they are prime resources for data collection, which is KEYSTONE for research. There is always a cliché answer to every question. The nursing clichè is that I want to help people, which is, one of the most generic, primary, broad, and inclusive answers ever. But, for me, the answer is logical as I find myself to be a long-term thinker. The medical industry has one of the most steady growth rates, with a projected growth of thirteen percent. Plus, having this one degree provides many opportunities for lateral and radial growth. With just a BSN you could become a registered nurse, clinical research nurse, medical writer, travel nurse, nurse lobbyist, healthcare community organizer, or even a healthcare marketing consultant. In addition to the many trajectories I can take as I pursue a degree in nursing, the current nursing shortage ensures that I will also partake in the advantage of having a steady and unbeatable competitive salary. Especially now, due to the current nursing shortage, it is fair to expect job security and staggering wages. Nursing is the end career for me. In the definition of diversity, there is “variety” when you have a variety of people, you bring different types of thought processes, ideas, and experiences. And ideas change the world by sparking movements. Your experiences shape the way you view society, alternating your point of view. Along with, putting your ideas into perspective. For example, if you came up with an idea to “end” world hunger, yet, it turns out to not be realistic at all. Experiences like, growing up in poverty, and experiencing the limitations on hunger work, you likely have come up with a better idea or solution to ending world hunger. Now just imagine a more diverse nursing community. Think of the amount of positive change that can be made in this world (diversity of cultural experiences coupled with the overarching desire to help people) to solve the issue of elder care. An individual who grew up with an elder within the household will ostensibly be better equipped to come up with a favorable solution, than someone who has never had to personally care for a senior citizen. Now picture an alternate reality, this reality has diversity within their planning room. When this unrealistic solution comes up, if it even comes up at all, an individual who has experienced said the issue will most likely point out how unattainable the solution is. Another less talked about benefit of diversity in a workforce, is the fact that it can decrease discrimination and racism. How? Well when you see more of something, it becomes your new normal. For example, at first, people were unused to wearing masks and seeing masks. Yet, over time it has become the new normal and even today, people are still wearing masks. This even made overall health better because even when people get a common cold, they have the option of working from home or just wearing a mask. Whereas in the past, they probably would just come to work, without taking any measures to stop infecting others. So when introduced to different cultures, races, and gender in society, you tend to be less discriminating because of your new world experience. These points aren’t only limited to the workplace, by increasing customer satisfaction, increasing customer engagement, and improving a reputation. But also support society in becoming more inclusive and well-balanced.