Growing up in Eritrea and later moving to the United States alone, I’ve faced many financial and emotional challenges. Living independently has taught me strength and resilience, but it has also come with heavy responsibilities. As a full-time student and part-time Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), I balance work, classes, and clinical hours while covering all my living expenses rent, food, transportation, tuition, and textbooks. I don’t receive financial support from family and rely heavily on financial aid and part-time income to survive. Even with budgeting, there are times I must choose between buying groceries and paying for school-related materials. These financial struggles often add stress, but they’ve also taught me determination and the value of every opportunity. Despite the difficulties, I remain committed to my education and my future in healthcare. I am currently studying pre-nursing at Lake Washington Institute of Technology with a 3.8 GPA and plan to transfer into a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program in Fall 2025. My dream is to become a registered nurse specializing in emergency or trauma care. I am passionate about helping people in moments of crisis and being a strong support system when they need it most. Eventually, I hope to volunteer internationally and serve communities with limited access to healthcare especially in parts of East Africa where resources are scarce. Working as a CNA at Foss Home Village Nursing Home in Seattle has given me over 600 hours of clinical experience and helped shape my values as a healthcare professional. I’ve cared for elderly residents with dementia, mobility challenges, and chronic conditions. I assist with vital signs, personal hygiene, meals, and emotional support. This experience confirmed that nursing is the right path for me. I want to go beyond basic care and become a nurse who can advocate for patients, save lives, and lead with empathy. My journey wouldn’t be complete without my involvement in community-based organizations. Back in Eritrea, I volunteered to help elders and neighbors by running errands and providing basic health education. In Seattle, I have continued this work by assisting with local outreach programs, where I help immigrants and low-income families understand their health needs and access resources. Being part of these efforts has changed my life. It made me realize that healing is not just medical it’s emotional, social, and cultural. Through these experiences, I’ve grown more confident, compassionate, and motivated to give back. I believe deeply in community service because I know what it feels like to be alone, to need help, and to receive kindness that changes your life. This scholarship would be life-changing for me. It would help relieve the financial pressure of school expenses, allowing me to focus more on my education and clinical training. I could reduce work hours, study more effectively, and participate in additional volunteer opportunities. It would also bring me closer to achieving my goal of becoming a registered nurse and eventually serving in underserved communities. Every dollar would support not just my success, but also the lives of the patients I will care for in the future. I am working hard every day to build a better future for myself, for my family back home, and for the people I hope to serve. Thank you for considering me for this scholarship. It would not only support my education but also empower me to keep pushing forward, despite the obstacles, and to give back even more to my community.

Why the Nursing Industry Interests Me The nursing industry interests me because it is a profession that blends science, service, and compassion. Growing up in Eritrea, I was responsible for caring for my diabetic grandfather. That experience left a powerful impression on me it was the first time I realized how meaningful it is to provide comfort and dignity to someone in need. Even though I was young, I felt a deep sense of purpose when I helped him manage his health. That purpose grew stronger when I moved to the United States and saw how nurses are often the first and last people patients interact with in moments of fear, pain, or uncertainty. I knew I wanted to be that source of strength and support for others. Today, I am working toward becoming a registered nurse, specializing in emergency or trauma care. I am currently a nursing student at Lake Washington Institute of Technology with a 3.8 GPA. My short-term goal is to transfer to a BSN program in Fall 2025, and my long-term goal is to provide emergency care in both U.S. hospitals and underserved international communities. I hope to use my skills in critical, fast-paced environments where I can make a difference under pressure and advocate for those who may not have a voice. To prepare for this path, I became a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Washington State and completed over 600 hours of clinical work at Foss Home Village Nursing Home in Seattle. There, I provided direct care to elderly residents, many of whom had dementia or chronic health conditions. I monitored vital signs, helped with personal hygiene, mobility, and feeding, and alerted nurses to changes in patient behavior or condition. I didn’t just learn how to complete tasks—I learned how to listen, how to be patient, and how to treat people with dignity even in their most vulnerable moments. Every resident I cared for taught me something about strength, resilience, and the importance of being fully present. Outside of my clinical work, I’ve also been involved in volunteer health outreach in both Eritrea and Seattle. I’ve helped low-income families with basic health education and assisted elders and individuals with disabilities in daily living tasks. These experiences have deepened my belief that healthcare should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their income, language, or immigration status. I’m proud to speak both English and Tigrinya, which allows me to bridge gaps in care and communication for many patients who might otherwise feel isolated or misunderstood. Along this journey, one personal accomplishment I’m proud of is overcoming the language and cultural barriers I faced when I first arrived in the U.S. I remember struggling to understand medical terms and protocols during my early CNA training. But instead of giving up, I studied harder, asked questions, and even shadowed more experienced staff on my own time. Eventually, my charge nurse praised me for my work ethic and encouraged me to keep going. That moment gave me the confidence to keep reaching higher and believe in myself as a future nurse. Nursing is more than a job for me it’s a calling rooted in compassion, courage, and community. Whether it’s helping someone in an emergency room, comforting a patient’s family, or serving in a rural clinic overseas, I want to be a nurse who brings not only knowledge and skill, but also empathy and cultural humility. I believe every person deserves to be treated with respect, and I want to dedicate my life to making that a reality one patient, one shift, and one community at a time.

What makes me different is my journey one that began in Eritrea and led me to the United States in search of opportunity, growth, and a chance to serve others. English is my second language, and adjusting to a new culture, language, and system wasn’t easy. But it gave me a strength that not everyone has: resilience. This resilience is what sets me apart and allows me to make an impact, even when I don’t realize people are watching. I’ve learned to lead by example quietly, consistently, and with compassion. As a certified nursing assistant, I work with people who are vulnerable, sick, or alone. One of my patients, an elderly woman with dementia, used to resist care and rarely smiled. I treated her with patience and dignity, even when she didn’t respond. One day, a new CNA told me, “I watched how you talked to her, and now she lets me help her too.” That moment made me realize the power of small actions. Someone had been learning from me without my knowing it. I don’t need to speak loudly to be heard. I believe in showing kindness in the way I help others stand up from a wheelchair, offer a warm meal, or hold their hand when they’re afraid. My uniqueness is in how I carry my background, my faith, and my heart into every interaction. Being different means I bring a global perspective and a deeper understanding of how cultural humility matters in healthcare and in life. In school, I often stay behind to help classmates who are struggling with a subject. I don’t do it for recognition. I do it because I understand what it feels like to be lost and not know how to ask for help. One day a professor told me that a student had stayed enrolled in the class because of my support. That student never told me directly, but my effort made a quiet difference. In the future, I plan to become a registered nurse and specialize in emergency or trauma care. I want to continue making a difference by being the calm voice in a crisis and the steady hand that someone can trust. I also hope to mentor other immigrant students pursuing careers in healthcare to show them that even with challenges, we can succeed and lead. What makes me different is not just where I come from, but how I use my story to lift others. Whether or not I know someone is watching, I try to live in a way that inspires hope and strength. Because sometimes the smallest act, done with heart, becomes the biggest lesson for someone else.

One of my greatest achievements to date is earning my Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification and completing over 600 hours of hands-on care experience at Foss Home Village Nursing Home. This milestone represents more than just a certificate it reflects my journey from Eritrea to the United States, overcoming language barriers, adapting to a new culture, and working hard to serve others in the healthcare field. When I first arrived in the U.S., I faced many challenges. English was not my first language, and understanding medical terms in school and clinical settings was difficult. However, I was determined to succeed. I took extra time to study, asked for help when I needed it, and practiced communicating clearly and confidently. Passing the CNA exam and beginning work in a nursing home showed me that I could overcome fear and self-doubt with patience and effort. This experience taught me the value of empathy, teamwork, and resilience. Working with older adults, especially those with dementia or limited mobility, required compassion and understanding. I learned to listen deeply not just to words, but to facial expressions and body language. I also realized that small actions, like holding a patient’s hand or helping them eat, could bring comfort and dignity. I also learned that healthcare is not just about treatment; it’s about connection. I remember one resident who rarely spoke. Over time, I built trust by greeting her warmly each day, learning her preferences, and sitting with her during meals. Eventually, she started smiling and even shared stories about her youth. That moment confirmed my calling: I want to be a nurse who connects deeply with patients. Now, I am studying at Lake Washington Institute of Technology, pursuing an Associate Degree in Nursing. My long-term goal is to become a Registered Nurse and specialize in emergency or trauma care. I want to work in fast-paced environments where quick thinking and compassion can save lives. I also hope to return to Eritrea one day to help improve access to healthcare in underserved communities. Receiving this scholarship would help ease my financial burden and allow me to focus on my studies and clinical training. More importantly, it would show me that others believe in my dream and my potential to make a difference in the world. Thank you for considering my application. I am proud of how far I’ve come, and I’m excited to continue growing and serving others in the nursing field.

My educational journey has not been a straight path, but it has been full of growth, purpose, and determination. I came to the United States from Eritrea with a dream of making a better life for myself and my family. When I first arrived, I struggled with English and adjusting to the American education system. I started with basic ESL classes, and at times, I felt discouraged. But I always remembered why I was here to become someone who could help others, especially in the field of healthcare. At first, I didn’t know what major to choose. I tried general classes and thought about different careers. But everything changed when I became a caregiver for my grandfather, who had diabetes. I saw how small acts of care like helping with meals, checking blood sugar, or just sitting and listening made a huge difference in his life. That was my "aha" moment. I realized I didn’t want just any job, I wanted to become a nurse. I began my journey in healthcare by becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). I worked at Foss Home Village Nursing Home, where I gained over 600 hours of experience. I learned to support residents with daily needs, manage documentation, communicate with healthcare teams, and most importantly, provide emotional comfort. I remember helping one elderly woman who spoke very little English. Because I understood what it felt like to be in a new country with a language barrier, I was patient and found other ways to communicate. She smiled and held my hand often and I knew that even though we spoke different languages, she trusted me. That trust meant everything. After completing my CNA certification, I decided to pursue an associate degree in pre-nursing. I am now enrolled in a nursing program and working hard to build a strong foundation in science, communication, and patient care. It hasn’t always been easy I’ve had to overcome language challenges, financial struggles, and self-doubt. But each challenge has made me more determined and focused. I’ve learned to ask for help, use tutoring, and stay organized so I can succeed. Now, I’m preparing to transfer to a four-year university to complete my Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). My ultimate goal is to become a registered nurse working in emergency or trauma care. I want to be part of the team that helps people in their most critical moments. My dream is to use my skills to care for people from all walks of life especially immigrants, elders, and people who often feel unseen in healthcare settings. My cultural background has helped me stay grounded. In Eritrean culture, we are raised to care for one another and to value community. Those values are what push me to keep going, even when school gets hard. I see nursing not just as a job, but as a calling to serve, to heal, and to make people feel human in their most vulnerable moments. This scholarship would support me in reaching my goal of becoming a nurse. It would ease the financial burden and allow me to stay focused on my studies. I am committed to giving back, lifting others up, and becoming a nurse who leads with heart and strength.

As a first-generation African immigrant from Eritrea, my cultural heritage has shaped every part of my life, especially my values of family, service, and perseverance. I grew up in a community where caring for others wasn’t just expected; it was part of our identity. When my grandfather became ill with diabetes, I helped take care of him at a young age. That experience taught me responsibility, empathy, and the importance of healthcare. It also planted the seed that would grow into my dream of becoming a nurse. Coming to the United States was not easy. I faced many challenges, especially with learning English and adjusting to a new education system. However, my Eritrean upbringing gave me the strength to keep pushing forward. My culture taught me the value of hard work and humility. It also gave me a strong sense of purpose. Helping others is not just something I want to do, it’s something I feel called to do. In my community, I contribute by volunteering at health-related events and supporting others who are new to the country. I’ve helped other immigrants navigate school systems, find resources for healthcare, and feel more connected to the community. When I worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), I didn’t just take care of patients, I translated for those who didn’t speak English well, and I helped make sure their cultural needs were understood and respected. Small things, like understanding someone’s food preferences or respecting religious beliefs, can make a big difference in healthcare. Through over 600 hours of hands-on work as a CNA, I learned how to care for others not just physically, but emotionally and culturally. I also learned how much representation matters. When patients see someone who looks like them and understands their background, they feel safer and more understood. As a future nurse, I want to bring that representation and make the healthcare system more welcoming for immigrants and minorities. My cultural background has also shaped my educational goals. I’m currently earning my associate degree in nursing, with plans to transfer into a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. My ultimate goal is to specialize in emergency or trauma care, where I can act quickly in life-saving situations and be a comforting presence in moments of crisis. Being a nurse means more than having medical knowledge it means showing up with compassion, respect, and cultural humility. Receiving the Dr. Soronnadi Nnaji Legacy Scholarship would allow me to continue my education without the heavy burden of financial stress. It would also honor the values I’ve carried with me my whole life: education, service, and giving back to my community. As a STEM student, I want to be part of the next generation of healthcare workers who make a real difference. With this scholarship, I can stay focused on my studies and be one step closer to becoming the nurse I’ve always dreamed of being.

Growing up in Eritrea, I learned early what it means to care for others. When my grandfather became sick with diabetes, I stepped in to help him with daily tasks, even though I was still a child. That experience taught me compassion and responsibility. It also showed me how powerful caring hands and a kind heart can be. Today, I carry that lesson with me as I pursue my nursing education in the United States. I believe I will positively impact the nursing profession by bringing cultural understanding, empathy, and resilience into every patient interaction. As an immigrant and English language learner, I’ve faced many barriers in my education and daily life. But these challenges have made me more understanding and patient with others who struggle. I want my future patients—especially immigrants, older adults, and vulnerable populations to feel safe, respected, and heard. During my CNA training and over 600 hours of experience, I learned that excellent nursing is not just about giving medications or completing tasks it’s about truly being present with people. I aim to be the kind of nurse who listens carefully, acts quickly, and comforts patients when they are scared or in pain. I also want to advocate for patients who feel overlooked due to language, age, race, or income. One day, I hope to become a trauma or emergency nurse, working in fast-paced environments where critical care is needed. In those moments, I will bring calm and clear thinking. But no matter what area of nursing I work in, my mission is the same: to care with skill and compassion, and to always see the human behind the illness. I will also give back to the profession by mentoring future nurses like me those who come from different backgrounds and need support to succeed. I believe diversity makes nursing stronger, and I want to be part of building an inclusive future in healthcare. Nursing is not just my career goal; it’s my purpose. I am committed to being a nurse who brings hope and healing, one patient at a time.

When I was a child in Eritrea, I watched my grandfather struggle with diabetes. Even though I didn’t fully understand his medical condition, I knew he needed love and care. I helped by preparing his meals, reminding him to take his medication, and keeping him company. Those small actions meant a lot to both of us. That experience sparked something deep in my heart. I didn’t know the word “nurse” at the time, but I knew I wanted to take care of people and ease their pain. Moving to the United States was both exciting and difficult. I had to learn English and adjust to a new culture. There were times I felt lost, but I never gave up. I carried my goal with me to work in healthcare and become a nurse. I started that journey by becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). I completed over 600 hours of work at Foss Home Village Nursing Home, caring for residents who often reminded me of my grandfather. I helped them with daily tasks, listened to their stories, and gave them comfort. One of the nurses there once told me, “You don’t just do your job you make people feel like they matter.” That compliment stayed with me. It made me believe I was on the right path. Now, I am in a nursing program working toward my associate degree, and I plan to transfer to a university to earn my Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). My dream is to specialize in emergency or trauma care. I want to be the kind of nurse who stays calm under pressure and helps save lives when every second counts. I am passionate about this area because I believe everyone deserves fast, skilled, and compassionate care in a crisis. What drives me most is my desire to give back. I come from a background where access to quality healthcare was limited. I know what it feels like to be vulnerable and unheard. That is why I want to become a nurse who listens, advocates, and cares deeply especially for patients from immigrant and low-income communities. I want my patients to feel seen, respected, and safe, no matter where they come from. My life hasn’t been easy, but every obstacle has made me stronger. I’ve learned to be patient, humble, and hardworking. I’ve faced language barriers, financial struggles, and cultural challenges, but I never lost sight of my purpose. Nursing is more than a career to me it is my calling. It’s how I want to serve the world. This scholarship would help me continue my education without worrying as much about financial barriers. It would allow me to stay focused on my classes, clinical training, and personal growth. More importantly, it would bring me one step closer to becoming the nurse I’ve always dreamed of being. I found out about this scholarship through Bold.org while searching for ways to support my nursing journey.

When I was a child in Eritrea, I watched my grandfather struggle with diabetes. Even though I didn’t fully understand his medical condition, I knew he needed love and care. I helped by preparing his meals, reminding him to take his medication, and keeping him company. Those small actions meant a lot to both of us. That experience sparked something deep in my heart. I didn’t know the word “nurse” at the time, but I knew I wanted to take care of people and ease their pain. Moving to the United States was both exciting and difficult. I had to learn English and adjust to a new culture. There were times I felt lost, but I never gave up. I carried my goal with me to work in healthcare and become a nurse. I started that journey by becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). I completed over 600 hours of work at Foss Home Village Nursing Home, caring for residents who often reminded me of my grandfather. I helped them with daily tasks, listened to their stories, and gave them comfort. One of the nurses there once told me, “You don’t just do your job you make people feel like they matter.” That compliment stayed with me. It made me believe I was on the right path. Now, I am in a nursing program working toward my associate degree, and I plan to transfer to a university to earn my Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). My dream is to specialize in emergency or trauma care. I want to be the kind of nurse who stays calm under pressure and helps save lives when every second counts. I am passionate about this area because I believe everyone deserves fast, skilled, and compassionate care in a crisis. What drives me most is my desire to give back. I come from a background where access to quality healthcare was limited. I know what it feels like to be vulnerable and unheard. That is why I want to become a nurse who listens, advocates, and cares deeply especially for patients from immigrant and low-income communities. I want my patients to feel seen, respected, and safe, no matter where they come from. My life hasn’t been easy, but every obstacle has made me stronger. I’ve learned to be patient, humble, and hardworking. I’ve faced language barriers, financial struggles, and cultural challenges, but I never lost sight of my purpose. Nursing is more than a career to me it is my calling. It’s how I want to serve the world. This scholarship would help me continue my education without worrying as much about financial barriers. It would allow me to stay focused on my classes, clinical training, and personal growth. More importantly, it would bring me one step closer to becoming the nurse I’ve always dreamed of being. I found out about this scholarship through Bold.org while searching for ways to support my nursing journey.