Personal health and wellness are very important for everyone, but especially for college students. If you don't stay in touch with yourself, you risk burnout, depression, and lack of motivation. All of these things can lead to failing grades, dropped courses, and even illness. For these reasons, and so many more, it is extremely important to maintain mental health while in college. One way that I work to maintain my mental health is by meal planning and prepping. Being a student is stressful and oftentimes leaves you with little time to eat healthfully. As a freshman in the dorms I was stuck eating takeout or from the cafeterias close to my dorm as there was nowhere to prepare my own food. When I moved out in later years I was able to cook for myself, but still relied heavily on frozen or prepackaged meals. In recent years I began meal planning and prepping to ensure that I am eating nutritious meals to fuel both my body and my mind. Another way that I maintain my mental health is through exercise. Whether going on hikes in my local parks, taking walks through the neighborhood, or utilizing my rowing machine, I make it a point to incorporate purposeful movement into my daily routine. In addition to the physical benefits of being active, exercise can also increase focus, reduce anxiety, and increase energy. All of these are critical to students, especially when it is time for exams or an important due date is approaching. A third way I strive to improve my mental health is by reading. Reading can provide an escape from the stresses that come with student life by allowing you to get lost in another time, place, or even world. There have also been studies showing that reading can increase neural pathways in your brain, help your mind prepare for sleep, and grow your vocabulary. Each of these benefits is crucial for students. Mental fitness is central to maintaining personal wellness. While personal wellness is important for all people, it is especially crucial to college students. Without personal health, a student risks burnout, fatigue, and illness. To combat this in my own life I make it a point to prioritize my mental well-being by meal planning and prepping, exercising, and reading. These activities allow me to perform at my highest level and be my best self, ensuring that I am able to reach my goals.

The best Netflix limited series I have watched recently is "You Are What You Eat: A Twin Experiment." The series delves into the importance of diet and exercise not only for the participants' health, but also discusses environmental and political impacts of these diets. This study utilized 21 sets of twins, separating one twin from each set into an omnivorous diet and the other into a vegan (plant-based) diet. Using twins in a scientific experiment allows the researchers to be able to control for genetics, showing that the interventions are what caused any changes, not the participants' biology. The twins followed their new diets for, along with a workout routine created for them, for eight weeks. Over the course of the eight weeks they had blood, urine, and stool samples taken and analyzed. The results of all the tests overwhelmingly support a plant-based diet. Participants in the vegan diet where shown to have decreased levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, which is what is commonly described as "bad" cholesterol. Plant-based participants also decreased levels of inflammation in the body and had higher levels of healthy gut bacteria. Those participants who were placed into the vegan diet group were also able to decrease their biological age over the course of the eight week study, as shown by the length of the telomeres on their DNA. While the biologic results of the diet choice was the main point I chose to watch the documentary, the information regarding the impact of an omnivorous diet on the environment was just as engaging. The series brought to light just how many resources, such as land and water, are used to raise livestock compared to crops. It also brought to light the harm caused by the salmon farming industry, such as disease-ridden fish and contamination of fish waste into non-farm water sources. "You Are What You Eat: A Twin Experiment" showcased the environmental racism prevalent in the pork industry, where manure sprayed on the crops also gets sprayed on the homes and land of their neighbors, a majority Black and poor population. "You Are What You Eat: A Twin Experiment" is the most interesting series I've watched recently. It's both informative and entertaining. The documentary covers both the health and environmental impacts of both plant-based and omnivorous diets, and encourages watchers to learn more about both and make the best decision for them and their health.

As a child and throughout my teenage years I suffered from severe migraines. Due to this I spent much time in the hospital trying to find the cause of these headaches. I had countless appointments for blood tests and imaging studies, meetings with specialists, and trying different medication regimens in an attempt to control the migraines. It was during this time I became fascinated with the medical field. I knew I wanted to help other children with their illnesses, in the way that the nurses and doctors had provided care and comfort to me. Being in the hospital is stressful for anyone, but as a child who doesn't have the same level of comprehension as an adult does, it can also be scary. The staff I grew to know at the hospital and clinics were able to talk to me on a level I was able to understand, which helped me feel less anxious about the tests and procedures I was undergoing. These experiences led me to the conclusion that I wanted to help children and adolescents feel more comfortable during their medical journey. I made the decision to go to nursing school where I worked hard and graduated with my Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing from the University of Cincinnati in 2017. Since then I’ve worked at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center on a variety of units within the medical center, including the Operating Room and the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU). During this time I honed my nursing skills, from assessments and obtaining vital signs to administering medications and monitoring for reactions. I obtained my Certified Pediatric Nurse and Critical-Care Registered Nurse certifications to grow in my knowledge and practice. I served on my unit's Peripheral Intravenous Infiltration and Extravasation Committee as a way to help educate my peers on the best practices for caring for peripheral intravenous devices as well as develop my leadership skills. I also served as a unit preceptor for new hires and student nurses, aiding in their development and growth on their nursing journey. During my time working in the PICU I came to understand the true depth of the importance of the monitoring, interventions, and advocacy I was performing for my patients. I realized that these skills were where my passion lies and that I wanted to advance my career to perform these skills for the most vulnerable population of all, those undergoing surgical procedures. These patients are unable to advocate for themselves while unconscious, and have no family to advocate for them during their surgery as families are unable to enter the sterile operating rooms. I applied and was accepted into the Doctoral program in Nurse Anesthesia at the University of Cincinnati. Due to the rigorous nature of the program students are not permitted to work while attending the three year program. Winning this scholarship will help offset the cost of the program, as well as ease the burden of having to pay for graduate school while being unable to work.

Growing up I knew I wanted to be a pediatric Registered Nurse. I spent much time in the hospital and clinics due to chronic migraines. Throughout this experience the nurses who took care of me helped me understand what was happening during tests and procedures and helped me feel more comfortable within the hospital setting. I worked hard and graduated with my Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing from the University of Cincinnati's Accelerated Nursing Program in 2017. Since then I’ve worked at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, which was named the best pediatric medical center in the country by the U.S. News & World Report in 2023. I worked on a variety of units within the medical center, including the Operating Room and the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU). During this time I honed my nursing skills, from assessments and obtaining vital signs to administering medications and monitoring for reactions. I obtained my Certified Pediatric Nurse and Critical-Care Registered Nurse certifications to grow in my knowledge and practice. I served on my unit's Peripheral Intravenous Infiltration and Extravasation (PIVIE) Committee as a way to help educate my peers on the best practices for caring for peripheral intravenous devices as well as develop my leadership skills. I also served as a unit preceptor for new hires and student nurses, aiding in their development and growth on their nursing journey. During my time working in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit I came to understand the true depth of the importance of the monitoring, interventions, and advocacy that I was performing for my patients. I realized that these skills were where my passion lies and that I wanted to advance my career to perform these skills for the most vulnerable population of all, those undergoing surgical procedures. These patients are unable to advocate for themselves while they are unconscious. They also have no family to advocate for them during their surgery as families are unable to enter operating rooms due to the sterile nature of the procedures occurring there. I applied and was accepted into the Doctoral program in Nurse Anesthesia at the University of Cincinnati. Due to the rigorous nature of the program students are not permitted to work while attending the three year long program. Winning this scholarship will help offset the cost of the program, as well as ease the burden of having to pay for graduate school while being unable to work.

Food waste is a major issue not only in the United States but around the world. The United States Department of Agriculture estimates that 30-40 percent of the nation's food supply is lost to food waste. This is an extremely large amount of food that could be going to help feed those who are food insecure. Not only could this food be used to feed those who need it, but most food waste ends up in a landfill, where it produces methane and speeds up the rate of climate change. In order to combat these issues where I live, I volunteer for a local non-profit organization named Last Mile Food Rescue. This organization works with grocery stores, restaurants, and convenience stores to collect food that will be discarded and donate it to local non-profit organizations such as food pantries and homeless shelters. This is an especially important service as one in five people in the area in which I live are food insecure. Volunteers at Last Mile Food Rescue are able to check an application on their phone to see where there is food in need of rescue, pick it up, and drop it off at the specified non-profit. Having been a volunteer with this organization for a couple of years, I have personally saved many pounds of edible food that would have gone to a landfill and rerouted it to those who need it most. According to Last Mile Food Rescue's website their volunteers saved 2.3 million pounds of food from going to landfills, ensuring countless meals and much-needed sustenance for those in need. In the future, I plan to continue my work with Last Mile Food Rescue. I will continue picking up food rescues and delivering it to where it is needed. I would also like to see the organization expand from my local Tri-State area to other cities, with the goal of it becoming a nationwide organization. Meeting with donors and backers in those cities can help the organization receive the funds to expand. Even spreading the word through social media and word of mouth has the ability to increase the amount of volunteers, thereby increasing the amount of food saved and people fed. Reducing food waste is important not only for those who are food insecure but for the environment as well. I give back by volunteering for an organization that saves food from landfills and gets it to the people who need it most. I hope that in the future I can continue to advocate for the growth of this important service.

Leaves changing color. A chill in the air. Football games. Pumpkins everywhere, from food to decor. Taylor Swift's album Red. Caramel Apple Spice from Starbucks. For me, these are the things that define fall. The warm-hued and jewel-tone colors that abound, mixed with the cooler temperatures allow for layered clothing and soft scarves, creating the cozy atmosphere that everyone associates with fall. The Caramel Apple Spice exemplifies fall. From the crispness to the slightly tart but overall sweet taste of the drink, each layer of flavor represents the season. The chill in the air is a refreshing change from the heat of the summer, much like the drink is crisp and refreshing to the drinker. The tartness represents the sadness of summer ending, but the sweetness is a reminder of all of the good the rest of the year can hold, from football games to holidays and spending time with loved ones. Each layer of flavor represents something that can also be ascribed to fall, from a reminder to a promise. The Caramel Apple Spice also offers a sense of nostalgia, reminding me of the scent of apple pies baking on Thanksgiving. The aroma would fill the air as my dad watched football and my sisters and I rolled out cookies to bake and decorate later. After, when the pie was done my sisters, mom, and I would eat it while playing games or doing a puzzle. The memories made during those times are some of my favorites. Taking a sip of the Caramel Apple Spice immediately transports me back to this simpler time in my life. These days, when I'm drinking a Caramel Apple Spice, I'm most likely to be found curled up on the couch with a cozy blanket and a good book. With all of the above-mentioned aspects of the drinks personality, it has become a sort of comfort item. It brings with it a feeling of calm and peace, letting my brain slow down enough to enjoy the moment and whatever book I'm reading. It serves as a gentle reminder to relax and unwind from the constant comings and goings of summer. The Caramel Apple Spice is the perfect drink for fall. From the layered flavors each symbolizing a different aspect of the season, to the feelings of nostalgia and coziness, to the reminder to slow down and unwind, it truly encapsulates the essence of fall.

"There will be times when you walk into a room and no one there is quite like you," states the opening line of The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson. The book goes on to describe how everyone is different from each other, and how that can make us feel alone and lesser than at times. The book then describes the courage needed to open up with others, especially those who appear most different to us, and how, once done, we can come to recognize our similarities and celebrate our differences. Although The Day You Begin is a children's book, it applies to people of all ages, races, genders, religions, and political affiliations. Looking at the state of the world today, with increasing violence, international tension, and political divides, it is easy to see how having everyone read a book advocating for the acceptance and tolerance of others could be helpful. It would serve as a reminder that although we are all different, we also share many similarities that aren't seen at first glance. "And all at once, in the room where no one else is quite like you, the world opens itself up a little wider to make some space for you," continues The Day You Begin. Jacqueline Woodson ends her book with "This is the day [...] where every new friend has something a little like you - and something else so fabulously not quite like you at all." These lines underscore the story's premise that opening up to others, and respecting them when they open up to you, allows everyone to have a seat at the table and all voices to be heard, making way for the creation of a more peaceful world for everyone.

Taylor Swift means so many different things to so many different people. To some, she's an artist who makes catchy songs. To others, she's an older sister figure, passing down her wisdom. To others still, she's a feminist icon, fighting for equal rights for all people. To me, she's all of those and more. Her music inspires me and at the same time helps me process the emotions from experiences she describes in her lyrics that also occurred in my life. Her determination to constantly do more and be better sparks a fire in me to continue to grow and develop my passions. Her down-to-Earth nature and genuine appreciation for those who support her is a constant reminder to never forget where you came from and to remain humble. All of these facets are always present but they have been extremely evident throughout the Eras Tour. Watching her perform gives a glimpse into the emotions she feels with every song she has written. Looking around the stadiums it is clear that not only are the songs meaningful to her, they are meaningful to the fans. As the concertgoers sing with Taylor you can see and feel their emotions, and it's as if everyone at the performance is processing their feelings with the help of the music. The same is true for me. Taylor puts into words feelings that I have been unable to verbalize myself and allows me to work through the emotions that come along with these experiences. While each of Taylor's tours has been bigger than the previous one, the Eras Tour stands high above the rest in terms of complexity. The moving set, the multiple costume changes, the three-hour-long setlist, and the graphics are all top-tier for the industry. She is constantly pushing herself to do bigger and better things than she has in the past. This has been an inspiration to me in my career. Seeing her constantly step out of her comfort zone and break barriers ignited a passion in me to further my career. I applied and was accepted into a Doctoral of Nursing Practice in Nurse Anesthesia program, and while it is scary to take such a big step up from bedside nursing, I know it was the right choice for my future. Taylor also constantly shows appreciation to her supporters, serving as a reminder to me to do the same. From giving away her "22" hat to a different fan each night to interacting with fans throughout the shows and on social media, she remains gracious and appreciative to her supporters. This is something I strive for in my own life. While I may not have fans of my own, I do have many people who have supported me through the various stages of my life, from childhood to college to my work as a Registered Nurse. My family, friends, and husband have been with me each step of the way, and showing my appreciation for them is extremely important. Taylor has played such a large part in my life as a role model and inspiration. From helping me work through emotions and experiences to motivating me to further my career to modeling the importance of showing appreciation for those around you, her Eras Tour has had a major impact on my life.

"No one can do everything, but everyone can do something" is a quote from Max Lucado that I try to follow in my day-to-day life. Each day every one of us has multiple opportunities to live more sustainably and improve our world by reducing our carbon footprint. Reducing our carbon footprint helps ensure the world will be inhabitable for the generations coming after us, allowing them to live comfortably and enjoy the many wonders this planet holds. There are many ways to reduce carbon footprint. Choices I make every day in an effort to live more sustainably include minimizing the use of single-use plastics, walking or riding my bike to run errands nearby, washing clothes in cold water instead of warm or hot, and eating a plant-based diet. Single-use plastics end up in landfills at an alarming rate. They take many years to break down, and when they do they release microplastics into the soil and water sources, eventually leading to their uptake into crops and consumption by humans and animals. To help combat the amount of single-use plastics ending up in landfills I take reusable bags to stores when shopping, drink from reusable water bottles, and use metal cutlery instead of plastic when I'm eating out. Each of these are small changes, but over time add up to create change. Driving releases many greenhouse gases, and emissions increase with increased frequency of acceleration and braking, which is common in cities and suburbs with many lights and stop signs. To avoid this I either walk or ride my bicycle to complete errands such as going to the post office, quick grocery trips, and going to the library. Not only does walking or biking reduce greenhouse emissions, but it is a form of exercise, providing health benefits as well. Washing clothing in warm or hot water is not necessary for laundry detergent to perform properly. Using heated water to wash clothes increases energy consumption. Using a high-efficiency washing machine and washing clothes in cold water allows me to decrease water use and decrease energy consumption on a necessary chore. Not only is this good for the planet, but it also saves money on both water and electricity bills. Another way to decrease greenhouse gas emissions and decrease carbon footprint is by eating a plant-based diet. Raising livestock utilizes many resources - land for grazing, water for drinking, and gasoline for bringing food to the animals and the meat to the grocery stores and butchers. This doesn't even account for the resources used to grow the feed for the livestock. Eating a plant-based diet cuts out the excess energy expenditure caused by livestock, decreasing overall greenhouse gas emissions and carbon footprint. There are countless ways to live sustainably and decrease your carbon footprint. If everyone starts with just a few conscious choices we can help mitigate the effects of climate change, thereby helping preserve the Earth and its wonders for generations to come.

My Barbie Dream House would be set in an area with both mountain and ocean views, such as Malibu. Malibu is also known for having warm and sunny weather for the majority of the year, which is important to me. Another reason for choosing Malibu as the setting of my Dream House is its proximity to a large city and airport. Being near to a large city allows for entertainment and amenities that can't be found in more secluded areas, and being close to an airport would give me the ability to travel frequently and easily. My house would have many windows from which I can watch the waves or see mountain views. It would also have a wraparound porch to allow me to enjoy my surroundings from the comfort of my own home. A fire pit, pool, and outdoor kitchen complete the outdoor space. The interior of the house would be decorated in calming, neutral tones, and would feature an open floor plan to allow for entertaining friends and family. The kitchen would feature upscale appliances and a large island to make preparing meals a breeze. The living area would feature comfortable couches and chairs to ensure all who use them feel relaxed and at home. The house would also have a theatre room to watch movies, tv, and sports. The biggest must-have in the house, however, would be the library with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves and sliding ladders to ensure all the shelves can be reached. The library would feature multiple types of chairs so that the perfect reading position could be found each time I sit down to read, and would have a solarium on one side to allow natural light and provide views of the natural surroundings. Finally, my Dream House would have a rooftop deck. This would allow 360-degree views of both the sea and the mountains. It would be the perfect place to watch the sunrise in the morning or the sunset at night, or just a place to sit and relax in privacy at any time of the day or night.

There are many things to love about Disney, but Beauty and the Beast, and Belle in particular, is my favorite. Belle taught me the importance of staying true to yourself, being brave, and always looking for the best in people. These are important life lessons, and they are ones that have served me well throughout my life. As a child, I was somewhat of a loner. I preferred listening to music alone in my room, reading, or playing with my Beanie Babies. Watching Beauty and the Beast and seeing Belle also prefer to spend time by herself reading helped me feel like I wasn't abnormal for preferring my own company to the company of my peers. As I've gotten older I realized that through Belle's normalization of self-reliance and self-validation, I learned that satisfaction in my life comes from myself, not from my relationships with others. Belle also displayed bravery and showed me the importance of standing up for myself and others. She refused Gaston's advances, showing that she values herself and her own happiness more than doing what is expected of her. Belle became the Beast's prisoner in place of her father, standing up for and protecting her family member. This shows courage as she willingly puts herself in harm's way to protect those she loves. Throughout my life, Belle's fortitude has been an inspiration to me, and this is no less evident in my career. As a Registered Nurse, I spend much of my shifts advocating for my patients to get them the treatments and care they need. While it can be scary to disagree with a doctor about the best plan of care, I pull from Belle's courage to give me strength. Belle also displays positivity and willingness to look past a person's flaws or differences so that she may discover the best in them. She does this with her father, rescuing and caring for him even though he's seen as an eccentric outsider by the townspeople. When she gets to the Beast's castle and meets the talking furniture and decor she isn't scared of them, but instead listens, learns, and befriends them. This desire to uncover the best in everyone is especially evident in her relationship with the Beast. She looks past his obvious physical differences, as well as his gruff demeanor, to get to know the person within. Throughout their time together she treats him with the respect and consideration she gives all people, which wears down the walls he's built up and allows him to open up and their relationship to blossom. Her ability to see the best in people is a trait that I've adopted. Being able to look past differences among groups of people so that we can work together to solve problems is an important skill, especially in these politically charged times. While there are many incredible and important pieces of the Disney corporation, Belle has always been my favorite. Her ability to be true to herself, her courage, and her skill for seeing the best in others have inspired me throughout my life and helped me become the person I am today.

When I was growing up I didn't want to be a nurse. I spent a lot of time in the hospital dealing with chronic migraines and undergoing various tests to determine their cause. Throughout this time I became intrigued by the thought of becoming a Pediatric Neurologist, due to the close relationship I had formed with my care team, especially my doctor. As a child I didn't understand all of the different medical professionals and their roles, but I did understand the role of a doctor. After completing high school I enrolled at The Ohio State University as a Psychology major while completing the required pre-medical coursework. I was still interested in the brain and its inner workings and believed majoring in Psychology would help unlock its mysteries while completing the rigorous science courses. In my junior year of college, I also started volunteering at The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, a cancer hospital that is part of the Wexner Medical Center at The Ohio State University. As a volunteer, I came in contact with a wide variety of medical professionals and careers, from doctors to Physician Associates to Registered Nurses to Medical Assistants. It was during this time my passion for nursing awakened. During my time as a volunteer, I was able to see and fully grasp the scope of a nurse's job. I saw how much time they spent at the bedside with their patients, performing tasks and assessments, as well as building their patients up both physically and mentally. I learned that nurses truly are the backbone of healthcare. It is oftentimes the nurse's assessment that doctors rely on to determine the next steps for a patient and their treatment plan. It is the nurses who are with the patients twenty-four hours a day, not just for a morning assessment, procedure, or emergency. I realized then that I wanted to be more hands-on with my patients, providing bedside care and comfort to those who need it most. After graduating with my degree in Psychology in 2014, I spent a year taking prerequisite classes for the University of Cincinnati's Accelerate Bachelor of Science in Nursing. I was accepted into their program and completed my nursing degree in 2017. Since then I have worked at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center as a Registered Nurse. I have worked in various areas from Adolescent Psychiatry to the Float Pool to the Operating Room and currently in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, but no matter the unit or specialty I have made sure to make my patients' needs a priority, just like the ones who inspired me to join this profession, the nurses at The James, did for their patients.

In the future, I am a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist whose skill and bedside manner allows those entrusting me with their care to feel confident and calm prior to their procedure, I am a preceptor and teacher helping those coming after me to provide the best possible care and outcomes for their patients, and I am leader championing the need for affordable access to care for everyone.

Personal health and wellness are very important for everyone, but especially for college students. If you don't stay in touch with yourself, you risk burnout, depression, and lack of motivation. All of these things can lead to failing grades, dropped courses, and even illness. For these reasons, and so many more, it is extremely important to maintain mental health while in college. One way that I work to maintain my mental health is by meal planning and prepping. Being a student is stressful and oftentimes leaves you with little time to eat healthfully. As a freshman in the dorms I was stuck eating takeout or from the cafeterias close to my dorm as there was nowhere to prepare my own food. When I moved out in later years I was able to cook for myself, but still relied heavily on frozen or prepackaged meals. In recent years I began meal planning and prepping to ensure that I am eating nutritious meals to fuel both my body and my mind. Another way that I maintain my mental health is through exercise. Whether going on hikes in my local parks, taking walks through the neighborhood, or utilizing my rowing machine, I make it a point to incorporate purposeful movement into my daily routine. In addition to the physical benefits of being active, exercise can also increase focus, reduce anxiety, and increase energy. All of these are critical to students, especially when it is time for exams or an important due date is approaching. Another way I strive to improve my mental health is by reading. Reading can provide an escape from the stresses that come with student life by allowing you to get lost in another time, place, or even world. There have also been studies showing that reading can increase neural pathways in your brain, help your mind prepare for sleep, and grow your vocabulary. Each of these benefits is crucial for students. Mental fitness is central to maintaining personal wellness. While personal wellness is important for all people, it is especially crucial to college students. Without personal health, a student risks burnout, fatigue, and illness. To combat this in my own life I make it a point to prioritize my mental well-being by meal planning and prepping, exercising, and reading. These activities allow me to perform at my highest level and be my best self, ensuring that I am able to reach my goals.

Personal health and wellness are very important for everyone, but especially for college students. If you don't stay in touch with yourself, you risk burnout, depression, and lack of motivation. All of these things can lead to failing grades, dropped courses, and even illness. For these reasons, and so many more, it is extremely important to maintain both physical and mental health while in college. One way that I work to maintain my physical health is by meal planning and prepping. Being a student is stressful and oftentimes leaves you with little time to eat healthfully. As a freshman in the dorms I was stuck eating takeout or from the cafeterias close to my dorm as there was nowhere to prepare my own food. When I moved out in later years I was able to cook for myself, but still relied heavily on frozen or prepackaged meals. In recent years I began meal planning and prepping to ensure that I am eating nutritious meals to fuel both my body and my mind. Another way that I maintain my physical health is through exercise. Whether going on hikes in my local parks, taking walks through the neighborhood, or utilizing my rowing machine, I make it a point to incorporate purposeful movement into my daily routine. In addition to the physical benefits of being active, exercise can also increase focus, reduce anxiety, and increase energy. All of these are critical to students, especially when it is time for exams or an important due date is approaching. I also take time to improve my mental health. There are a variety of ways in which I do this. One way is by reading. Reading can provide an escape from the stresses that come with student life by allowing you to get lost in another time, place, or even world. There have also been studies showing that reading can increase empathy, help your mind prepare for sleep, and grow your vocabulary. Each of these benefits is crucial for students. Both physical and mental fitness are central to maintaining personal wellness. While personal wellness is important for all people, it is especially crucial to college students. Without personal health, a student risks burnout, fatigue, and illness. To combat this in my own life I make it a point to prioritize both my physical and mental well-being by meal planning and prepping, exercising, and reading. These activities allow me to perform at my highest level and be my best self.

Personal health and wellness are very important for everyone, but especially for college students. If you don't stay in touch with yourself, you risk burnout, depression, and lack of motivation. All of these things can lead to failing grades, dropped courses, and even illness. For these reasons, and so many more, it is extremely important to maintain both physical and mental health while in college. One way that I work to maintain my physical health is by meal planning and prepping. Being a student is stressful and oftentimes leaves you with little time to eat healthfully. As a freshman in the dorms I was stuck eating takeout or from the cafeterias close to my dorm as there was nowhere to prepare my own food. When I moved out in later years I was able to cook for myself, but still relied heavily on frozen or prepackaged meals. In recent years I began meal planning and prepping to ensure that I am eating nutritious meals to fuel both my body and my mind. Another way that I maintain my physical health is through exercise. Whether going on hikes in my local parks, taking walks through the neighborhood, or utilizing my rowing machine, I make it a point to incorporate purposeful movement into my daily routine. In addition to the physical benefits of being active, exercise can also increase focus, reduce anxiety, and increase energy. All of these are critical to students, especially when it is time for exams or an important due date is approaching. I also take time to improve my mental health. There are a variety of ways in which I do this. One way is by reading. Reading can provide an escape from the stresses that come with student life by allowing you to get lost in another time, place, or even world. There have also been studies showing that reading can increase empathy, help your mind prepare for sleep, and grow your vocabulary. Each of these benefits is crucial for students. Both physical and mental fitness are central to maintaining personal wellness. While personal wellness is important for all people, it is especially crucial to college students. Without personal health, a student risks burnout, fatigue, and illness. To combat this in my own life I make it a point to prioritize both my physical and mental well-being by meal planning and prepping, exercising, and reading. These activities allow me to perform at my highest level and be my best self.

As a pediatric Registered Nurse, I've spent the past six years caring for children in varying stages of disease and distress. For the past two years, I have had the privilege of working in my hospital's Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU), where I provide care to some of the sickest children from my local area as well as from around the world. During this time I have come to truly understand the need for a strong advocate for the patients who are unable to advocate for themselves. Children are a unique population in the medical world in that, due to their age and developmental status, even when they are healthy they may be unable to describe how they are feeling or if anything you are doing is causing pain or another form of discomfort. In the PICU, we often rely on the patient's family members or caregivers to let us know what the patient's baseline activity and demeanor are, and if there is any deviation from their normal behavior. When caregivers are unavailable, it's up to the bedside nurse's assessment and clinical judgment to advocate for that patient's needs. Over the past two years, I have discovered my passion lies in advocating for patients who are unable to advocate for themselves. Since discovering this, I have explored how I can best use this passion alongside my nursing skills to provide the best possible care for my patients. It was during this time that I decided to apply to a Doctoral program in Nurse Anesthesia, to which I was accepted. Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) provide anesthesia and sedation services to patients undergoing surgical procedures. There are few patients more vulnerable than those who are under anesthesia, due to the need for them to be rendered unconscious and unable to move. It is my personal goal to provide these patients with safe care and speak up for them if I notice a change in my assessment that would alert me that something is not right. It is my goal for the profession to advance the scope of practice for CRNAs. Multiple studies have shown that anesthesia services provided by a CRNA have comparable risks and outcomes to that of care provided by an anesthesiologist but costs the patient less. This allows it to be a more cost-effective way of providing care to marginalized groups, giving access to necessary medical treatment to those who might otherwise go without it. As a Registered Nurse in the PICU I have become skilled at advocating for patients who can't speak for themselves. This skill has turned into a passion of mine. It is my goal to become a CRNA so that I can continue to advocate for patients when they are at their most vulnerable, providing them with the best possible care.

As a pediatric Registered Nurse, I've spent the past six years caring for children in varying stages of disease and distress. For the past two years, I have had the privilege of working in my hospital's Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU), where I provide care to some of the sickest children from my local area as well as from around the world. During this time I have come to truly understand the need for a strong advocate for the patients who are unable to advocate for themselves. Children are a unique population in the medical world in that, due to their age and developmental status, even when they are healthy they may be unable to describe how they are feeling or if anything you are doing is causing pain or another form of discomfort. In the PICU, we often rely on the patient's family members or caregivers to let us know what the patient's baseline activity and demeanor are, and if there is any deviation from their normal behavior. When caregivers are unavailable, it's up to the bedside nurse's assessment and clinical judgment to advocate for that patient's needs. Over the past two years, I have discovered my passion lies in advocating for patients who are unable to advocate for themselves. Since discovering this, I have explored how I can best use this passion alongside my nursing skills to provide the best possible care for my patients. It was during this time that I decided to apply to a Doctoral program in Nurse Anesthesia, to which I was accepted. Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) provide anesthesia and sedation services to patients undergoing surgical procedures. There are few patients more vulnerable than those who are under anesthesia, due to the need for them to be rendered unconscious and unable to move. It is my personal goal to provide these patients with safe care and speak up for them if I notice a change in my assessment that would alert me that something is not right. It is my goal for the profession to advance the scope of practice for CRNAs. Multiple studies have shown that anesthesia services provided by a CRNA have comparable risks and outcomes to that of care provided by an anesthesiologist but costs the patient less. This allows it to be a more cost-effective way of providing care to marginalized groups, giving access to necessary medical treatment to those who might otherwise go without it. As a Registered Nurse in the PICU I have become skilled at advocating for patients who can't speak for themselves. This skill has turned into a passion of mine. It is my goal to become a CRNA so that I can continue to advocate for patients when they are at their most vulnerable, providing them with the best possible care.

As a child and throughout my teenage years I suffered from severe migraines. Due to this, I spent much time in the hospital trying to find the cause of these headaches. I had countless appointments for blood tests and imaging studies, meetings with specialists, and trying different medication regimens in an attempt to control the migraines. It was during this time I became fascinated with the medical field. I knew that I wanted to help other children with their illnesses, in the way that the nurses and doctors had provided care and comfort to me. Being in the hospital is stressful for anyone, but as a child who doesn't have the same level of comprehension as an adult does, it can also be scary. The nurses that I grew to know at the hospital and clinics were able to talk to me on a level I was able to understand, which helped me feel less anxious about the tests and procedures I was undergoing. I continued to have the desire to work with sick and injured children throughout high school and college and graduated with my Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2017. After graduating I started working at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, where I've been a Registered Nurse for six years. I currently work in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, where I provide care to some of the most vulnerable and sick children, not only from Cincinnati, but from around the world. During my time as a pediatric Registered Nurse, I've obtained my Certified Pediatric Nurse and Critical-Care Registered Nurse certifications to grow in my knowledge and practice. I currently serve on my unit's Peripheral Intravenous Infiltration and Extravasation (PIVIE) Committee as a way to help educate my peers on the best practices for caring for peripheral intravenous devices as well as develop my leadership skills. I also serve as a unit preceptor for new hires and student nurses, aiding in their development and growth on their nursing journey. After spending six years as a pediatric Registered Nurse, I have decided to take the next step and further my education in nursing. I've been accepted into a Doctoral of Nursing Practice program in Nurse Anesthesia and will graduate from the program in 2026, and hope to return to Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA). As a CRNA, I will be able to continue my passion for caring for sick and injured children, drawing on my experiences as an ICU nurse while providing care at the highest level of nursing's scope of practice.

"I've been going to this climbing gym by your house lately and it's been a lot of fun. Would you want to try it out next time I go?" my best friend, always the more adventurous of the two of us, asked me one night. I responded by telling her that I would, and the following week she picked me up and took me to Climb Time, the local climbing gym. When we walked in, I was overwhelmed. Everything from the specialized shoes to the massive walls with a variety of settings and colorful route identifications had me in a state of sensory overload. After we paid and put on our shoes I told her I was nervous and just wanted to watch some of the more experienced climbers for a while. She agreed and gave me the space to become acquainted with the environment. When I was ready we found the easiest setting and she showed me the basics. After spending some time on that route, we moved to a new wall with a harder setting. After a couple of passes there we called it a night. We returned to Climb Time the following week, and the week after that, and the week after that. I discovered that I enjoyed climbing so much that I bought a membership. I continued to grow in my abilities and my confidence, while also learning about myself - my physical strength, my puzzle-solving capabilities, and my ability to overcome obstacles. I enjoyed a sense of calm and focus when I was on the wall that I was hard-pressed to find in other situations. It turns out that climbing has a lot of real-world applications, many of which are directly applicable to my career as a Registered Nurse. The ability to problem-solve that you hone in climbing as you determine which grip to go for next can also be used to determine the next steps to take when a patient takes a sudden decline. The perseverance you gain from pushing through a tough route and completing it can be drawn on when you've had a hard shift and know you have to go back and face it again the next day. I recently was accepted into a Doctoral program in Nurse Anesthesia, and again I will need to draw on those same skills that I refined through climbing to get through the three-year program. I will need problem-solving to effectively understand the lessons and scenarios being taught and perseverance to complete the extremely rigorous program. Being awarded this scholarship would allow me to focus on my studies without worrying about paying for the program, allowing me peace of mind, much like climbing.

As a child and throughout my teenage years I suffered from severe migraines. Due to this, I spent much time in the hospital trying to find the cause of these headaches. I had countless appointments for blood tests and imaging studies, meetings with specialists, and trying different medication regimens in an attempt to control the migraines. It was during this time I became fascinated with the medical field. I knew that I wanted to help other children with their illnesses, in the way that the nurses and doctors had provided care and comfort to me. Being in the hospital is stressful for anyone, but as a child who doesn't have the same level of comprehension as an adult does, it can also be scary. The nurses that I grew to know at the hospital and clinics were able to talk to me on a level I was able to understand, which helped me feel less anxious about the tests and procedures I was undergoing. I continued to have the desire to work with sick and injured children throughout high school and college and graduated with my Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2017. After graduating I started working at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, where I've been a Registered Nurse for six years. I currently work in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, where I provide care to some of the most vulnerable and sick children, not only from Cincinnati, but from around the world. During my time as a pediatric Registered Nurse, I've obtained my Certified Pediatric Nurse and Critical-Care Registered Nurse certifications to grow in my knowledge and practice. I currently serve on my unit's Peripheral Intravenous Infiltration and Extravasation (PIVIE) Committee as a way to help educate my peers on the best practices for caring for peripheral intravenous devices as well as develop my leadership skills. I also serve as a unit preceptor for new hires and student nurses, aiding in their development and growth on their nursing journey. After spending six years as a pediatric Registered Nurse, I have decided to take the next step and further my education in nursing. I've been accepted into a Doctoral of Nursing Practice program in Nurse Anesthesia and will graduate from the program in 2026, and hope to return to Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA). As a CRNA, I will be able to continue my passion for caring for sick and injured children, drawing on my experiences as an ICU nurse while providing care at the highest level of nursing's scope of practice.

"Flashing lights and we took a wrong turn and we fell down a rabbit hole," sings Taylor Swift in Wonderland, a song on the Deluxe version of her album '1989.' The song has been a favorite of mine since the first time I heard it. It combines imagery from one of the best-known children's stories, "Alice in Wonderland", with an experience that many people can relate to - dating someone who is not the best fit for them. In this way the song allows listeners to connect to it on multiple levels. "You held on tight to me, 'cause nothing's as it seems, and spinning out of control," she continues. This reinforces the connection to "Alice in Wonderland" by calling to mind the confusion Alice experienced when she first entered Wonderland. In the same vein, entering a new relationship comes with new emotions and experiences that can also be confusing. The beginning of a relationship can feel like a whirlwind, exciting and chaotic. In the chorus, she sings "We found Wonderland, you and I got lost in it and we pretended it could last forever," eventually continuing "Life was never worse, but never better." When Alice enters Wonderland she has no idea where to go or what dangers she may face; she is lost in unfamiliar territory. The start of a new relationship has a similar feeling; it's exciting and you may feel like you're on top of the world, while at the same time, the anxiety from a new beginning is very stressful. Both the start of a relationship and Alice's entry into Wonderland feel exciting but have an undercurrent of apprehension. "Didn't you calm my fears with a Cheshire cat smile?" continues Taylor. In "Alice in Wonderland" the Cheshire Cat is a character that guides Alice, although he sometimes takes her where she needs to go and other times he leads her into trouble. Taylor communicates that she's trusting where this new relationship is taking her by stating that her fears were subdued by his reassurances. This is a common occurrence in a new relationship, where you believe that your new partner only wants the best for you, so you are willing to follow where they lead, even if it ends poorly. Toward the end of the song Taylor states "In the end, in Wonderland, we both went mad." At the end of "Alice in Wonderland," Alice is on trial and causes a disturbance in the courtroom, leading to a type of madness and chaos. In Taylor's Wonderland, the word mad takes on a double meaning. On one hand, it can mean irrational and frenzied, but another meaning is enthusiastic and in love. Throughout the song, she gives glimpses that both meanings are occurring at the same time, which is a common feeling in a new and unhealthy relationship. Overall, Wonderland by Taylor Swift is my favorite song from her album '1989' for many reasons. The melody and harmonies are catchy, and the vocals are beautiful. However, the imagery of the lyrics and the use of a well-known and loved children's story allows the listener to relate to the song on multiple levels. By combining Lewis Carroll's "Alice in Wonderland" with the emotions that come with a new and/or unhealthy relationship, listeners can connect to the song in more than one way.