Being a nurse is much more than just helping patients; it requires empathy, understanding, and respect. Through my experience as a Certified Nursing Assistant, I have seen firsthand how much of a difference having these qualities makes in a patient. I have also witnessed situations where patients were not treated with the dignity and respect they deserved. While these situations can be discouraging, I use them as motivation to provide every patient I care for with compassion, patience, and respect. I know how I would want to be treated in a situation where I was in need of help and vulnerable, so I make sure kindness is given to everyone. My name is Gianna Gavilan, and I am a high school senior at Carter G. Woodson in Fairfax, VA. Outside of school, I work part-time as a CNA, assisting patients with daily tasks and supporting them during difficult times as they recover from surgery. The positive and negative experiences I've had have strengthened my desire to pursue nursing specifically as an Emergency Room nurse. I am drawn to the fast-paced environment, where teamwork and emotional strength are essential. I know I can be someone that patients can rely on during the most difficult and uncertain times in thier lives. As a nurse, I want to do more than just provide care; I want to build relationships with my patients and help them live healthier lives. Having sympathy and patience for others are morals I stand by in life. I found these morals by growing up as an active member in my community. My parents raised me to be involved and to help others whenever I can. Whether it's through volunteer work or my job as a CNA, I find fulfillment in making a positive impact on others. I knew from a young age that having a desk job behind a screen all day would be nearly impossible for me. I am a hands-on person who enjoys interacting with people. As a nurse, I plan to continue to serve my community by providing compassionate care and promoting health education. I understand the horrible situations people have to go through, whether it's assault, trauma, or injuries. Going to work and seeing people at their worst and best is emotionally hard to comprehend. I could not imagine my life without a future dedicated to helping improve the lives of others. It's truly the best feeling walking into my shift knowing I can help improve someone's day, even in the smallest way. I get to help them, and that's the best feeling in the world. I am passionate about becoming a nurse because I want to be the person who can help these people, not only physically but also emotionally.

In my junior year of high school, I enrolled in an introduction to nursing course where I earned my Certified Nursing Assistant license. Before taking this class, I was uncertain about my future. However, through this class, I discovered a passion for healthcare and knew it was the path I wanted to pursue. In August of 2025, I began working at a post-acute care facility. From the start, I was overwhelmed by stress and intimidation from the environment. I was not treated like a staff member; I was often ignored when I asked for help or given orders to complete tasks, while the nurses sat, and I ran around attending to my patients. Some of my coworkers spoke to me disrespectfully. Additionally, I was shocked by how some of the patients were treated by the staff. Seeing patients in their most vulnerable state treated with disrespect and a lack of attention to their care has made me realize I want to help make a change in the field. Being in a new environment as someone who is still learning can be stressful. As a nurse, I want to help others feel comfortable and assure them that asking questions is the best way to grow. Additionally, I will strive not only to care for my patients' physical needs but also to show compassion and empathy. After adapting to my job, I have developed bedside manners and the ability to speak to patients in a comforting way. In March of 2026, I had the opportunity to shadow an orthopedic nurse who left a lasting impression on me. She was the kindest and most attentive provider I have met. She shared her journey from working as a bedside nurse to becoming a unit manager. As I watched her interact with her patients, she had a way of making them feel comfortable and heard, even when they were going through a difficult time. Witnessing her solidified my goal of becoming a nurse who not only treats patients but truly cares for them. I have been grateful for the time I've spent in geriatric care, as I've built a solid foundation for collaborating with healthcare providers and providing general care. But I aspire to pursue a career as an Emergency Room nurse. The emergency room is a fast-paced, high-stress environment. I feel drawn to it because it allows me to care for patients during some of the most critical moments of their lives. I want to not only provide medical care but also emotional support to patients and their families. Treating injuries, assisting with trauma situations, and caring for victims of violence requires a strong and composed individual. I believe I possess the strength and stability to be suceesful in this environment. I am prepared to dedicate my future to helping others, providing care and comfort when it is most needed.