My passion for women's health began long before I stepped into a labor and delivery unit. It started by watching my mom spend years searching for answers to unexplained pain and realizing how important compassionate healthcare professionals are during life's most vulnerable moments. Growing up, I watched my mom struggle with chronic pain that no one seemed able to explain. There were countless doctor appointments, tests, and referrals to specialists, each one bringing hope that someone would finally understand what she was experiencing. Eventually, she was diagnosed with Palindromic Rheumatoid Arthritis. Although the diagnosis did not take away her pain, it finally gave her answers and a treatment plan. Watching her journey taught me that healthcare is about much more than treating a diagnosis. Women deserve providers who listen, believe their concerns, and support them through uncertainty with compassion and respect. Those experiences sparked my interest in nursing, but my hospital job shadowing experience helped me discover where I truly belong. During my time observing nurses in both pediatrics and labor and delivery, I quickly realized that labor and delivery was something special. I watched nurses care not only for mothers and newborns but for entire families during one of the most emotional and memorable days of their lives. They offered reassurance during moments of fear, celebrated alongside parents as they welcomed a new baby, and patiently answered questions while helping new mothers gain confidence. Their ability to combine clinical skill with genuine compassion left a lasting impression on me. My love for children made that experience even more meaningful. Through my work at a daycare and volunteering with children at my church, I discovered how much I enjoy helping children feel safe, comforted, and understood. While I have always envisioned working with children, my experience in labor and delivery helped me realize that caring for babies begins by caring for their mothers. Supporting a woman through pregnancy, childbirth, and those first precious moments of motherhood gives both mother and child the strongest possible start. As I continue my education at Briar Cliff University, I hope to become a labor and delivery nurse who makes every patient feel heard, respected, and supported. I know that not every birth follows the plan a family hopes for, and I want to be the calm, reassuring presence who helps parents navigate both joyful and unexpected moments with confidence. I hope my patients remember not only the care I provided but also how I made them feel during one of the most important days of their lives. Although I do not yet have a formal research project or portfolio in women's health, I have intentionally prepared for this career by earning my Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification while still in high school and seeking opportunities to observe nurses in clinical settings. Those experiences confirmed that nursing is where I am meant to be and inspired me to pursue a career dedicated to caring for women, newborns, and families. Watching my mom's journey taught me the importance of being heard. My experience in labor and delivery showed me the privilege of walking beside women during moments of both vulnerability and joy. Together, those experiences inspired my passion for women's health and my commitment to providing compassionate care that helps families begin one of life's greatest journeys with confidence, comfort, and hope.

From eighth grade through my junior year, I was fortunate to be part of a successful varsity softball program. We won a lot of games, earned a sixth-place state ranking during my junior season, and I was honored to receive Second Team All-Conference and KMA All-Junior Team recognition. During those years, I measured success by wins, batting averages, and where we ranked in the state. My senior year redefined what success meant to me. I learned that the accomplishments that matter most are never recorded on a stat sheet—they're found in the teammates you encourage, the confidence you help build, and the resilience you develop together. Going into my senior season, everything changed. We lost our starting pitcher, several teammates quit, and we entered the season without a head coach. After coming off one of the best seasons in our program's history, we suddenly found ourselves rebuilding with athletes who had little or no varsity experience. Several girls were asked to step into key positions before they felt ready. We were run-ruled game after game and didn't earn our first win until the final week of conference play. From the outside, it probably looked like our season was defined by losses. To me, it became the most rewarding season I have ever experienced. As one of only three seniors who stayed with the program, I knew my role had changed. My responsibility was no longer just to contribute on the field—it was to help build confidence in the younger girls who were learning the game at the varsity level. I made it my goal to become the best leader I could be by encouraging my teammates after difficult games, celebrating every improvement, offering constructive feedback, and leading through my own effort and attitude. Instead of focusing on the scoreboard, we focused on becoming a little better every single day. Looking back, I don't remember most of the scores. I remember watching younger teammates begin to believe in themselves. I remember friendships growing stronger during long bus rides, teammates picking each other up after mistakes, and our commitment to never stop improving even when the results didn't come right away. We learned that success isn't always measured by championships or statistics. Sometimes success is choosing to show up with a positive attitude, giving your best effort, and helping those around you become more confident than they were yesterday. That season also confirmed my decision to continue playing softball in college. I found a home at Briar Cliff University, where I can pursue a degree in nursing while continuing to play the game that has shaped so much of who I am. The lessons softball has taught me—resilience, teamwork, communication, humility, and servant leadership—are the same qualities I hope to bring into my future career as a pediatric nurse. Just as a great coach encourages players to become the best version of themselves, I hope to encourage children and their families through difficult moments by providing compassionate care, building trust, and reminding them they are never facing their challenges alone. Brett Brakel dedicated his life to teaching, coaching, and investing in young people. Looking back, I realize that the greatest coaches don't just teach athletes how to win games—they teach them how to lead, persevere, and make a positive difference in the lives of others. My senior season taught me those lessons more than any championship ever could, and they are lessons I will carry with me onto the softball field, into the classroom, and eventually into every patient room I enter as a nurse.

My decision to pursue nursing was not shaped by one defining moment. Instead, it grew over years of watching the people I love search for answers, rely on compassionate healthcare professionals, and discover that even when a disease cannot be cured, kindness can make an incredibly difficult journey easier. Growing up, I watched my mom live with unexplained pain for years. There were countless doctor appointments, tests, and referrals to specialists, each one bringing hope that someone would finally understand what she was experiencing. Eventually, she was diagnosed with Palindromic Rheumatoid Arthritis. Although the diagnosis did not take away her pain, it finally gave her answers and a treatment plan. Watching her journey taught me that healthcare is about far more than treating symptoms. Patients need someone who will listen, encourage them, and remind them they are not alone during seasons of uncertainty. A few years later, my family experienced another difficult journey when my younger brother was diagnosed with congenital high cholesterol and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease after months of searching for answers. Because both conditions require lifelong management, I have seen firsthand how chronic illness affects an entire family. Through both experiences, I noticed that nurses often became the people my family remembered most. They patiently answered questions, explained procedures, celebrated progress, and offered reassurance during difficult days. Their compassion did not change the diagnosis, but it changed how my family experienced it. That realization inspired the kind of nurse I hope to become. My goal is to become a pediatric nurse specializing in caring for children with chronic illnesses or cardiac conditions. Children facing lifelong medical challenges deserve nurses who see them as more than a diagnosis. I want to build relationships with my patients, celebrate their milestones, comfort them through setbacks, and support their families during some of life's most overwhelming moments. While I may not be able to change every outcome, I hope to make every child feel safe, valued, and cared for. To prepare for this career, I earned my Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification while still in high school, gaining valuable hands-on experience caring for patients and learning the importance of compassion, communication, and attention to detail. I also completed field experiences in pediatrics and labor and delivery, where I observed the teamwork, clinical skill, and empathy that exceptional nurses demonstrate every day. These experiences confirmed that nursing is exactly where I am meant to be. Outside of healthcare, I have worked at a daycare and volunteered with children through my church, experiences that strengthened my ability to build trust, show patience, and create meaningful connections with young children. I have also been a dedicated softball player and will continue my athletic career at Briar Cliff University. Softball has taught me resilience, teamwork, and how to remain calm under pressure—qualities that will help me care for patients and work effectively alongside other healthcare professionals. My family's experiences inspired me to pursue nursing, but my future patients are what motivate me every day. I hope to become the kind of nurse who is remembered not only for providing excellent medical care but also for making children and their families feel heard, supported, and hopeful during some of the most challenging moments of their lives.

My interest in nursing did not begin with a single moment. Instead, it grew over years of watching the people I love search for answers, lean on compassionate healthcare professionals, and find hope during some of life's most difficult moments. Growing up, I watched my mom struggle with unexplained pain for years. I remember countless doctor appointments, tests, and referrals to specialists, each one bringing the hope that someone would finally understand what she was experiencing. Eventually, she was diagnosed with Palindromic Rheumatoid Arthritis. Although the diagnosis did not take away her pain, it finally provided answers and a path forward. Watching her journey taught me that healthcare is about much more than diagnosing an illness. Patients need people who will listen, encourage them, and remind them that they are not alone while they search for answers. A few years later, my family faced another difficult journey when my younger brother began experiencing his own health problems. After months of testing and uncertainty, he was diagnosed with congenital high cholesterol and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease. He now manages these lifelong conditions with medication and regular medical care. Once again, I saw how overwhelming it can be for a family to navigate an uncertain diagnosis. During both of these experiences, I noticed something that has stayed with me ever since: nurses were often the people who brought comfort during the hardest days. They answered questions with patience, explained what to expect, offered reassurance, and treated my family as people rather than simply patients. Their compassion did not change the diagnoses, but it changed the experience of living through them. Those experiences shaped the kind of nurse I hope to become. I want to care for children with chronic illnesses or cardiac conditions because I understand that many of these patients will spend years visiting hospitals and clinics. My goal is to be more than someone who provides excellent medical care. I want to be the nurse who remembers a child's favorite hobby, celebrates milestones in their treatment, eases their fears before a procedure, and helps families feel supported during uncertain moments. Sometimes healing is not only about medicine—it is about knowing someone genuinely cares about your well-being. To prepare for this career, I have intentionally sought opportunities to learn about healthcare. I earned my Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification while still in high school, giving me valuable hands-on experience caring for patients and teaching me the importance of compassion, communication, and attention to detail. I also completed field experience days in pediatrics and labor and delivery, where I observed the teamwork, clinical knowledge, and empathy that exceptional nurses demonstrate every day. Those experiences confirmed that nursing is exactly where I am meant to be. Outside of nursing, I am passionate about two things: working with children and playing softball. Through my job at a daycare and volunteering with children at my church, I have learned how important patience, encouragement, and trust are in helping children feel safe. Those experiences have strengthened my desire to become a pediatric nurse because I know how meaningful it is to connect with children in ways that make them feel understood and cared for. Softball has also been one of the greatest influences in my life. As a student-athlete preparing to continue my softball career at Briar Cliff University, I have learned discipline, resilience, teamwork, and perseverance. Athletics have taught me how to stay composed under pressure, communicate effectively, and support those around me through both victories and setbacks. These are the same qualities I hope to bring into every patient room as a nurse. Mary Jane Beck's story is a reminder that nurses do far more than provide medical care. Their kindness, compassion, and ability to brighten someone's hardest days leave a lasting impact long after treatment is over. My family's experiences have shown me the difference a caring nurse can make, and they have inspired me to dedicate my life to providing that same comfort and hope for children and their families. I hope to become the kind of nurse who is remembered not only for clinical skill, but for making every patient feel seen, heard, and cared for when they need it most.

My decision to pursue nursing is deeply rooted in my family's experiences and the values I was raised with. Growing up, I watched my mom, an elementary teacher for over 21 years who has taught first, second, and fourth grades and now specializes in math instruction, spend years searching for answers to unexplained pain. I remember countless doctor appointments, tests, and referrals to different specialists, always hoping the next visit would finally provide an explanation. After years of uncertainty, she was diagnosed with Palindromic Rheumatoid Arthritis. Although the diagnosis did not take away her pain, it finally gave her answers, a treatment plan, and hope. Watching her journey showed me that healthcare is about far more than treating symptoms. It is about helping patients feel heard, offering reassurance during uncertainty, and reminding them that they are not alone. My family's experiences with chronic illness continued when my younger brother was diagnosed with congenital high cholesterol and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease after months of searching for answers. He now manages these lifelong conditions with medication and ongoing medical care. Watching both my mom and my brother navigate chronic health conditions gave me a firsthand understanding of how illness affects an entire family, not just the individual receiving treatment. During those experiences, I saw how nurses often became the people who spent the most time answering questions, explaining procedures, and providing encouragement when fear and uncertainty felt overwhelming. Their compassion left a lasting impression on me and reinforced my desire to pursue nursing. My parents have both shaped the person I hope to become. My mom has spent her career helping children build confidence and discover their potential through education. She taught me the importance of patience, kindness, and meeting every child where they are. My dad serves as the Chief Deputy of an Iowa Sheriff's Department, dedicating his career to protecting and serving others with integrity and compassion. Watching both of my parents devote their lives to serving their communities taught me that the most meaningful careers are those centered on improving the lives of others. Their example inspired me to choose a profession where I can make a lasting difference every day. While my family's experiences introduced me to nursing, my love of working with children solidified the path I want to take. Through my work at a daycare and volunteering with children at my church, I discovered how much I enjoy building relationships with kids and helping them feel safe, encouraged, and understood. I know that a hospital can be an intimidating place for a child, and I want to be the nurse who helps replace fear with comfort and confidence. My goal is to become a pediatric nurse specializing in caring for children with chronic illnesses or cardiac conditions. These children often face ongoing treatments and repeated hospital visits, and I want to help make those experiences a little less frightening while supporting the families who walk beside them every step of the way. I have intentionally prepared myself for this career throughout high school. I challenged myself by taking Anatomy and Medical Terminology, courses that strengthened my understanding of healthcare and confirmed my passion for nursing. I also earned my Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification, gaining valuable hands-on experience caring for patients while learning the importance of compassion, communication, and attention to detail. In addition, I completed field experience days in both pediatrics and labor and delivery. Observing nurses in those settings allowed me to witness the teamwork, clinical knowledge, and empathy that define exceptional nursing care. Those experiences only strengthened my desire to pursue pediatric nursing. Receiving this scholarship would help me continue pursuing my Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Briar Cliff University while reducing the financial burden on my family. More importantly, it would help me continue preparing for a career that is deeply personal to me. My goal is not simply to become a nurse, but to become the kind of pediatric nurse who remembers that every patient has a story, every family deserves compassion, and sometimes the greatest gift you can offer is helping someone feel heard, supported, and hopeful during one of the most difficult times in their life.

My interest in nursing began long before I ever stepped into a healthcare classroom. It started at home, watching my mom struggle with years of unexplained pain. I remember countless doctor appointments, tests, and specialists as our family searched for answers. Although many healthcare professionals genuinely wanted to help, there were long periods of uncertainty that were physically and emotionally exhausting for her. Eventually, she was diagnosed with Palindromic Rheumatoid Arthritis, and while the diagnosis did not erase her pain, it finally provided clarity, treatment options, and hope. Watching her journey taught me that healthcare is about far more than treating symptoms—it is about supporting patients through uncertainty and helping them feel heard during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. My family's experience was reinforced when my younger brother began facing his own medical challenges. After months of searching for answers, he was diagnosed with congenital high cholesterol and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease. He now manages these conditions with lifelong medication and ongoing medical care. Seeing two of the people I love most navigate complex medical situations showed me the tremendous impact compassionate healthcare professionals can have, not only on patients but on entire families. Those experiences inspired me to become someone who can provide both skilled medical care and reassurance when people need it most. While these experiences introduced me to nursing, my love of working with children solidified the direction I want my career to take. Through my work at a daycare and volunteering with children at my church, I discovered how much I enjoy building relationships with kids and helping them feel safe, encouraged, and understood. My goal is to become a pediatric nurse because I believe children deserve healthcare providers who not only deliver excellent medical care but also make them feel comfortable during what can be frightening experiences. I hope to be the nurse who helps ease a child's fears while also supporting worried parents through difficult situations. To prepare for this career, I challenged myself throughout high school by taking Anatomy and Medical Terminology, courses that strengthened both my interest in healthcare and my understanding of the human body. I also earned my Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification while still in high school, giving me valuable hands-on experience caring for others. Through my field experience days, I had the opportunity to observe healthcare professionals in both pediatrics and labor and delivery. These experiences confirmed that I enjoy fast-paced environments where teamwork, communication, compassion, and critical thinking come together to provide outstanding patient care. Beyond healthcare, I have developed skills that I believe will help me succeed as a nurse. As a student-athlete committed to playing collegiate softball, I have learned discipline, time management, resilience, and the importance of working together toward a common goal. My volunteer experiences have strengthened my ability to connect with people of all ages and reinforced the value of serving my community with compassion and humility. Receiving this scholarship would help me continue pursuing my Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Briar Cliff University while reducing the financial burden on my family. More importantly, it would allow me to continue preparing for a career that has been shaped by both personal experience and purposeful preparation. My goal is not simply to become a nurse, but to become the kind of nurse who remembers that every patient has a story, every family deserves compassion, and sometimes the greatest difference you can make begins with listening, offering hope, and helping someone feel that they are not facing their journey alone.

When people ask why I want to become a nurse, the answer goes far beyond simply wanting to help others. My desire comes from years of watching the people I love search for answers when no one seemed to have them. Growing up, I watched my mom live with constant pain that no one could explain. Appointment after appointment, she met with different doctors hoping each visit would finally provide an answer. Instead, there were more questions, more uncertainty, and more frustration. I saw firsthand how exhausting it was—not only physically, but emotionally—to live with symptoms that affected her daily life while not knowing why they were happening. Eventually, after finally seeing the right specialist, she was diagnosed with Palindromic Rheumatoid Arthritis. Although the diagnosis didn't erase her pain, it gave her something she had been searching for all along: answers, a treatment plan, and hope. Watching that journey changed the way I viewed healthcare. I realized that patients are often carrying much more than physical symptoms. They carry fear, uncertainty, frustration, and the feeling of wondering if anyone truly understands what they are experiencing. While physicians diagnose and treat disease, nurses are the ones who walk beside patients throughout the process. They answer questions, explain procedures, offer reassurance, and provide comfort during moments when patients feel overwhelmed. I want to be that person for others. My passion for pediatric nursing grew alongside my love of working with children. Through my experiences working at a daycare and volunteering with young children at my church, I discovered how much I enjoy building relationships with kids and helping them feel safe. Children may not fully understand what is happening when they are sick or in the hospital, but they immediately recognize kindness, patience, and encouragement. I want to be the nurse who helps transform an intimidating experience into one where children feel cared for and families feel supported. My family's experiences reinforced that calling once again when my younger brother faced his own medical challenges. After months of searching for answers, he was diagnosed with congenital high cholesterol and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease, conditions that require lifelong medication and ongoing medical care. Once again, I saw how important compassionate healthcare professionals are during a family's search for answers. Their knowledge mattered, but so did their willingness to listen, explain, and care. These experiences have taught me that nursing is about much more than treating illness. It is about giving patients confidence when they feel uncertain, hope when they feel discouraged, and compassion when they need it most. My goal is to combine my love of children, my passion for science, and the lessons I've learned from my own family's experiences to become a pediatric nurse who provides not only excellent medical care but also comfort during life's most difficult moments. Receiving this scholarship would help me continue pursuing that goal at Briar Cliff University. More importantly, it would allow me to focus on becoming the kind of nurse who remembers that every patient has a story, every family deserves to feel heard, and sometimes providing hope begins simply by helping someone know they are not facing their journey alone.

When people ask why I want to become a nurse, the answer goes far beyond simply wanting to help others. My desire comes from years of watching the people I love search for answers when no one seemed to have them. Growing up, I watched my mom live with constant pain that no one could explain. Appointment after appointment, she met with different doctors hoping each visit would finally provide an answer. Instead, there were more questions, more uncertainty, and more frustration. I saw firsthand how exhausting it was—not only physically, but emotionally—to live with symptoms that affected her daily life while not knowing why they were happening. Eventually, after finally seeing the right specialist, she was diagnosed with Palindromic Rheumatoid Arthritis. Although the diagnosis didn't erase her pain, it gave her something she had been searching for all along: answers, a treatment plan, and hope. Watching that journey changed the way I viewed healthcare. I realized that patients are often carrying much more than physical symptoms. They carry fear, uncertainty, frustration, and the feeling of wondering if anyone truly understands what they are experiencing. While physicians diagnose and treat disease, nurses are the ones who walk beside patients throughout the process. They answer questions, explain procedures, offer reassurance, and provide comfort during moments when patients feel overwhelmed. I want to be that person for others. My passion for pediatric nursing grew alongside my love of working with children. Through my experiences working at a daycare and volunteering with young children at my church, I discovered how much I enjoy building relationships with kids and helping them feel safe. Children may not fully understand what is happening when they are sick or in the hospital, but they immediately recognize kindness, patience, and encouragement. I want to be the nurse who helps transform an intimidating experience into one where children feel cared for and families feel supported. My family's experiences reinforced that calling once again when my younger brother faced his own medical challenges. After months of searching for answers, he was diagnosed with congenital high cholesterol and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease, conditions that require lifelong medication and ongoing medical care. Once again, I saw how important compassionate healthcare professionals are during a family's search for answers. Their knowledge mattered, but so did their willingness to listen, explain, and care. These experiences have taught me that nursing is about much more than treating illness. It is about giving patients confidence when they feel uncertain, hope when they feel discouraged, and compassion when they need it most. My goal is to combine my love of children, my passion for science, and the lessons I've learned from my own family's experiences to become a pediatric nurse who provides not only excellent medical care but also comfort during life's most difficult moments. Receiving this scholarship would help me continue pursuing that goal at Briar Cliff University. More importantly, it would allow me to focus on becoming the kind of nurse who remembers that every patient has a story, every family deserves to feel heard, and sometimes providing hope begins simply by helping someone know they are not facing their journey alone.

When people ask why I want to become a nurse, the answer goes far beyond simply wanting to help others. My desire comes from years of watching the people I love search for answers when no one seemed to have them. Growing up, I watched my mom live with constant pain that no one could explain. Appointment after appointment, she met with different doctors hoping each visit would finally provide an answer. Instead, there were more questions, more uncertainty, and more frustration. I saw firsthand how exhausting it was—not only physically, but emotionally—to live with symptoms that affected her daily life while not knowing why they were happening. Eventually, after finally seeing the right specialist, she was diagnosed with Palindromic Rheumatoid Arthritis. Although the diagnosis didn't erase her pain, it gave her something she had been searching for all along: answers, a treatment plan, and hope. Watching that journey changed the way I viewed healthcare. I realized that patients are often carrying much more than physical symptoms. They carry fear, uncertainty, frustration, and the feeling of wondering if anyone truly understands what they are experiencing. While physicians diagnose and treat disease, nurses are the ones who walk beside patients throughout the process. They answer questions, explain procedures, offer reassurance, and provide comfort during moments when patients feel overwhelmed. I want to be that person for others. My passion for pediatric nursing grew alongside my love of working with children. Through my experiences working at a daycare and volunteering with young children at my church, I discovered how much I enjoy building relationships with kids and helping them feel safe. Children may not fully understand what is happening when they are sick or in the hospital, but they immediately recognize kindness, patience, and encouragement. I want to be the nurse who helps transform an intimidating experience into one where children feel cared for and families feel supported. My family's experiences reinforced that calling once again when my younger brother faced his own medical challenges. After months of searching for answers, he was diagnosed with congenital high cholesterol and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease, conditions that require lifelong medication and ongoing medical care. Once again, I saw how important compassionate healthcare professionals are during a family's search for answers. Their knowledge mattered, but so did their willingness to listen, explain, and care. These experiences have taught me that nursing is about much more than treating illness. It is about giving patients confidence when they feel uncertain, hope when they feel discouraged, and compassion when they need it most. My goal is to combine my love of children, my passion for science, and the lessons I've learned from my own family's experiences to become a pediatric nurse who provides not only excellent medical care but also comfort during life's most difficult moments. Receiving this scholarship would help me continue pursuing that goal at Briar Cliff University. More importantly, it would allow me to focus on becoming the kind of nurse who remembers that every patient has a story, every family deserves to feel heard, and sometimes providing hope begins simply by helping someone know they are not facing their journey alone. I found this scholarship while looking for nursing scholarships on BOLD.org

I am a senior in high school and I am planning on attending Briar Cliff University next year. I have verbally committed to continue my academic and softball career there and I could not be more excited. I have lots of people to thank but all of my praise and glory goes to my father and my savior, Jesus Christ. I have him to thank for all of my athletic abilities and the opportunity to play this sport at a higher level comes from him. Growing up in a church going household has shaped my faith in Jesus in ways that continue to guide every part of my life. From a young age my family made faith a priority and church was not just a place we attended but a foundation for how we lived. Through weekly services, prayer at home and open conversations about God I learned who Jesus is and how His love and guidance can shape a person’s heart and purpose. These early experiences built a strong spiritual base that continues to grow as I mature in my faith. For the past four years I have also attended summer church camp which has played a major role in strengthening my relationship with Jesus. Camp provided an environment where I could step away from everyday distractions and focus fully on my faith. Through worship services, small group discussions and time spent in reflection I felt closer to God and more confident in my beliefs. Each summer my faith grew deeper and more personal. It was during these moments that I began to understand that Jesus does not just guide us in church but walks with us through every decision we make. One of the most meaningful moments in my faith journey occurred while in prayer when I felt Jesus speak clearly to my heart. In that quiet and intentional moment it became evident that nursing is my calling. I felt a deep sense of peace and certainty that could only come from God. This moment was not loud or dramatic but it was powerful and undeniable. Jesus placed the desire to care for others in my heart and confirmed that serving through nursing is how I am meant to live out my faith. My faith in Jesus will guide me throughout my future career in nursing. Nursing is not just a profession to me but a calling to serve others with compassion, patience and love. Jesus showed the importance of caring for the sick, comforting the hurting and loving people unconditionally. I plan to reflect those same values in my work by treating every patient with dignity, kindness and empathy. My faith will remind me to remain calm during stressful moments and to see each patient as a child of God. Through prayer I will seek strength, guidance and wisdom as I care for others. Jesus will be my source of comfort and motivation as I navigate the challenges of nursing. My goal is to be a nurse who not only heals physically but also offers emotional and spiritual support. By allowing my faith to guide my actions I hope to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those I serve and honor Jesus through my work every day.

I am someone who believes strongly in giving back to my community and supporting younger generations through leadership service and positive role modeling. Through my involvement in youth sports church and childcare I have learned how meaningful it is to encourage others and help them grow. These experiences have shaped who I am and have guided how I plan to make a positive impact in my community through youth sports and service. Softball has been a major part of my life and has taught me valuable lessons about teamwork commitment and resilience. Being part of a team showed me how important encouragement and support are especially during difficult moments. I learned how to lead by example whether that meant staying positive after a tough loss or motivating teammates to keep working hard. Through youth sports I want to help younger athletes build confidence learn discipline and understand the importance of effort and sportsmanship. I hope to be someone they can look up to both on and off the field. Track and field has also played an important role in my personal growth. Track emphasizes individual effort while still being part of a team which taught me accountability and perseverance. It helped me understand that success comes from consistent effort and determination. I want to share these lessons with younger athletes by encouraging them to set goals believe in themselves and recognize their progress. Youth sports provide an opportunity to teach life skills that extend far beyond competition. My involvement in church has strengthened my desire to serve others and be active in my community. Through church activities and service I have learned the importance of kindness compassion and integrity. My faith encourages me to care for others and support them through both words and actions. These values influence how I interact with young athletes by promoting respect encouragement and inclusion. Working at a daycare has given me hands on experience caring for children and supporting their emotional and physical needs. In this role I help create a safe positive environment where children feel valued and supported. This experience has strengthened my patience communication skills and ability to work with children of different personalities and needs. It has also confirmed my desire to work with youth in a meaningful way. I plan to continue making a positive impact in my community by combining my love for youth sports with my goal of becoming a nurse. Nursing is a service focused profession that aligns closely with my values of compassion and care. By supporting youth through sports mentoring and my future career I hope to encourage confidence health and well being in my community. Through leadership service and dedication I want to help young people grow into strong capable individuals.

My passion for nursing began long before I ever considered it as a career path. Through years of babysitting and working at a daycare facility I discovered how meaningful it is to care for children and support them during important moments in their lives. Being responsible for their safety, comfort and happiness taught me patience, empathy and responsibility. These experiences helped me realize that caring for others, especially children, is not just something I enjoy but something I feel called to do. Babysitting allowed me to form close bonds with children and their families. I learned how to respond calmly in stressful situations and how to provide comfort when a child is scared or upset. Working at a daycare facility further strengthened these skills by placing me in a fast paced environment where teamwork and communication were essential. Each day I helped create a safe and positive space where children could learn, grow and feel valued. These moments showed me that even small acts of care can have a lasting impact. My faith has also played a major role in shaping my desire to pursue nursing. Growing up in a church going household and attending summer church camp strengthened my relationship with Jesus and helped guide my values. Through prayer I have learned to listen for direction and trust that God has a plan for my life. My faith reminds me to serve others with kindness, compassion and patience and those qualities align closely with the role of a nurse. Pediatric nursing is the area that speaks most strongly to my heart. Children deserve to feel safe and supported especially during times of illness or fear. I want to be the nurse who helps ease their worries by offering comfort, encouragement and a smile. Seeing a child smile or laugh even in a hospital setting is powerful and meaningful to me. Making children feel happy and understood will always be a priority alongside providing proper medical care. Helping children heal goes beyond physical treatment. Emotional support can make a difficult experience feel less overwhelming. By bringing positivity, warmth and faith into my work I hope to create moments of joy for young patients and their families. Whether it is through gentle reassurance or simple conversation I want children to feel seen and cared for. Nursing combines my love for children, my faith and my desire to serve others. Through my experiences in childcare and my trust in God I am confident that pediatric nursing is the path I am meant to follow. My goal is to make a difference by helping children heal while also bringing hope, comfort and smiles to those who need it most.

From a young age, I have always felt a natural pull toward caring for others, especially children. Their resilience, honesty, and ability to find joy even in difficult moments inspire me, and these qualities have shaped my goal of becoming a pediatric nurse. I want to be someone who not only provides medical care but also creates a safe and comforting environment for children and their families during times of stress or uncertainty. My interest in pediatric nursing has been strengthened through practical experiences caring for children in my community. Whether through babysitting, volunteering, or supporting families during challenging situations, I have learned how important patience, empathy, and consistency are in a child’s well-being. These experiences have taught me that children often remember how they are treated just as much as the care they receive. Being a calm and supportive presence can make a significant difference in how a child copes with fear or discomfort, especially in new or unfamiliar settings such as hospitals or clinics. My plan begins with continuing to build a strong academic foundation in science, particularly biology and anatomy, while also strengthening my communication and leadership abilities. These skills will prepare me for a nursing program where I can learn the technical knowledge and critical thinking required in the medical field. In addition, I plan to remain involved in service opportunities that allow me to work with children and families, further developing my interpersonal skills and sense of responsibility. Once in nursing school, I plan to seek clinical experiences that place me directly in pediatric settings. Observing and assisting nurses in children’s hospitals or pediatric clinics will help me understand the real demands of the profession and grow my confidence. I am especially interested in learning how pediatric nurses work closely with families to provide compassionate and supportive care. Beyond earning my Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree and obtaining my nursing license, my goal is to specialize in pediatrics. I also plan to continue my education throughout my career so I can stay updated on evolving treatments, technologies, and patient care practices. Lifelong learning is essential in healthcare, and I am committed to continually improving my skills. Most importantly, I want to become the kind of nurse who makes a meaningful difference in a child’s life, someone who brings comfort, hope, and healing. Becoming a pediatric nurse is not just a career goal for me. It is a purposeful way to serve others and make a lasting impact.

From a young age, I have always felt a natural pull toward caring for others, especially children. Their resilience, honesty, and ability to find joy even in difficult moments inspire me, and these qualities have shaped my goal of becoming a pediatric nurse. I want to be someone who not only provides medical care but also creates a safe and comforting environment for children and their families during times of stress or uncertainty. My interest in pediatric nursing has been strengthened through practical experiences caring for children in my community. Whether through babysitting, volunteering, or supporting families during challenging situations, I have learned how important patience, empathy, and consistency are in a child’s well-being. These experiences have taught me that children often remember how they are treated just as much as the care they receive. Being a calm and supportive presence can make a significant difference in how a child copes with fear or discomfort, especially in new or unfamiliar settings such as hospitals or clinics. My plan begins with continuing to build a strong academic foundation in science, particularly biology and anatomy, while also strengthening my communication and leadership abilities. These skills will prepare me for a nursing program where I can learn the technical knowledge and critical thinking required in the medical field. In addition, I plan to remain involved in service opportunities that allow me to work with children and families, further developing my interpersonal skills and sense of responsibility. Once in nursing school, I plan to seek clinical experiences that place me directly in pediatric settings. Observing and assisting nurses in children’s hospitals or pediatric clinics will help me understand the real demands of the profession and grow my confidence. I am especially interested in learning how pediatric nurses work closely with families to provide compassionate and supportive care. Beyond earning my Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree and obtaining my nursing license, my goal is to specialize in pediatrics. I also plan to continue my education throughout my career so I can stay updated on evolving treatments, technologies, and patient care practices. Lifelong learning is essential in healthcare, and I am committed to continually improving my skills. Most importantly, I want to become the kind of nurse who makes a meaningful difference in a child’s life, someone who brings comfort, hope, and healing. Becoming a pediatric nurse is not just a career goal for me. It is a purposeful way to serve others and make a lasting impact.

I am currently a senior in high school who is deeply involved in both academics and extracurricular activities. I participate in varsity softball and track, sports that have taught me discipline, teamwork, and perseverance. Balancing athletics with school has strengthened my time management skills and reinforced the importance of commitment. I am also a proud older sister to my younger brother, a role that has helped shape my sense of responsibility and care for others. Serving my community has always been an important part of my life. For the past six years, I have volunteered at my church alongside my mom, helping teach and care for children. This work has always been fully volunteer based, and I do not receive any form of payment. Through this experience, I have learned the value of service, patience, and leadership. Working with children in this setting has allowed me to be a positive role model while supporting families in my community. These years of service have played a significant role in shaping who I am today and have reinforced my passion for working with children. In addition to volunteering, I also work as a babysitter, including caring for children in military families. These experiences have helped me develop strong communication skills, empathy, and the ability to remain calm and dependable in challenging situations. Together, my volunteer work, family responsibilities, and extracurricular activities have prepared me to succeed both academically and personally. If awarded this scholarship, I would use the funds to support my college education as I pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. My long term goal is to become a pediatric nurse. My parents and I are committed to paying for my education without taking out student loans, and this scholarship would significantly ease the financial burden on my family. It would allow me to focus more fully on my studies and clinical experiences while continuing to serve others. Receiving this scholarship would not only support my educational goals but also help me continue my commitment to giving back to my community through a career dedicated to caring for children and families. The picture that I am going to attach below is a picture from a few weeks ago. It is a picture of me laying on the ground playing with the kid around me. I have a lot more pictures with the kids but I think this is a great representation of the relationship I have with the kids.

I have learned what true leadership means through my experience playing high school softball. The game has shaped how I see myself, how I interact with others, and how I want to make a difference in the world. Through the tough challenges, losses, victories, and moments of teamwork on the field, I discovered that leadership is about setting an example, staying positive under pressure, and lifting others up. As I grew into an upperclassman, I realized that leadership isn’t something that just happens when you get older, it’s a responsibility you earn through trust, respect, and love. Those lessons guided me toward my dream of becoming a nurse. Softball has taught me how to stay calm and focused in high-pressure situations. When the bases are loaded or the game is tied, there’s no time to panic. One time specifically, it was a close game and our team was losing 3-5 and the bases were loaded. I was worried that I was going to strike out and lose the game for us. Knowing that I have done so much for this team and they have my back, I was going in with a positive mindset. After a couple of pitches, she pitched it right down the middle, and I swung. The ball kept flying through the air, and it was a home run. In softball, you call a home run when bases are loaded a “grand slam”. You get four runs from that. It is very rare. We ended up winning seven to five because of everyone supporting me when I was worried. I was very happy with myself, but I was more excited about winning as a team over a rival school. I have also learned to manage stress and to keep a positive attitude even when things don’t go as planned. After losing the game to go to state, we were all very upset and disappointed but the thing that kept my head held high was remembering that most of the starters have one year left and we will put in the work and make it next year. Because of that, I focus on my training to help better our team for next year. These moments mirror what nurses face in real life. They need to stay steady and compassionate when others are scared or in pain. I hope to one day keep my patients calm and cared for during difficult times. Being a leader on my softball team has shown me that helping people starts with listening, understanding, and giving your best effort to make others’ lives better. That’s exactly what I want to do as a nurse. The same teamwork, communication, and empathy that make a great player also make a great caregiver. Softball didn’t just teach me how to win games, it taught me how to lead with heart, and that’s the kind of leader I hope to be for my future patients. In September I decided to continue my education and softball career at the University of Briar Cliff! I am so excited to keep playing the game I love and help little girls and boys learn that they can achieve their dreams just like how I achieved mine.

My aspiration to become a pediatric nurse is rooted in both my passion for caring for children and the meaningful experiences I have gained through babysitting. One experience in particular, caring for a child whose father is stationed in Colorado with the United States Air Force, has significantly shaped my understanding of responsibility, empathy, and the emotional needs of children. While babysitting for this family, I became more than a caregiver and instead served as a consistent presence in a child’s life during a time of uncertainty and change. With their father serving away from home, the child often experienced confusion, sadness, and moments of anxiety. I made it a priority to provide stability through routines, active listening, and encouragement, helping the child feel safe and supported despite the absence of a parent. This experience exposed me to the unique challenges faced by families connected to the military, especially children who must cope with separation and adjustment. I observed how emotional stress can appear through behavior and mood, reinforcing the importance of compassionate care. These moments taught me how impactful a calm presence and kind words can be, lessons that directly align with the values of pediatric nursing. Children often rely on trusted adults to help them process difficult situations, and I learned how to respond with empathy while maintaining a positive and nurturing environment. In addition to emotional support, I learned the importance of responsibility and communication. I worked closely with the child’s remaining parent to ensure routines were followed, needs were met, and concerns were addressed promptly. This taught me the value of teamwork and trust, skills that are essential in a healthcare setting. Pediatric nurses must collaborate with families, doctors, and other medical professionals, and my babysitting experience gave me an early understanding of this role. My babysitting experience has strengthened my desire to pursue pediatric nursing by showing me the difference attentive care can make in a child’s overall wellness. Pediatric nurses are often a source of comfort for children facing unfamiliar or stressful situations, similar to the role I played in this family. I want to be someone who not only provides medical care but also emotional support to children and reassurance to their families. Ultimately, my goal is to become a pediatric nurse who advocates for children and understands the emotional challenges they face, especially those from families serving in the military. The lessons I have learned through babysitting have prepared me for this path and affirmed my commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of young patients.