Coming from a low-income household has pushed me to apply for scholarships such as the Lotus Scholarship and find a job that will give me an income to pay off as much out-of-pocket expenses as I owe. When I cannot pay it off, I take in loans and work on paying them. Constantly thinking about how to pay college expenses meant I had to push myself to receive my desired degree so I could be debt-free within the next five years. Edward Everett Hale says, “...I cannot do everything, but I can do something. And I will not let what I cannot do interfere with what I can do.” If the widowed woman in Mark 12:42-44 could give her two small copper coins despite that meaning she had nothing else to live on, then I can do something with what I have. Being in a low-income household taught me to be grateful for the big and small things I have. It also means I can show others to appreciate the little things they have. Even when costs sometimes become too much, I am reminded to give. This reminder means I can give to others when they are at their lowest. By receiving a degree in nursing and later becoming a family nurse practitioner, I can leave a positive and healthy influence on many people by giving. As a Togolese immigrant and a first-generation college student, I know children who do not have the options or the best work-oriented environment to stay in school and succeed in their careers. However, because I am blessed to live in America and continue my education, I want to do something for somebody. To do more continues with me pursuing my academic and getting my BSN in May 2025, my MSN, and DNP.

I was born in Kpalime, Togo, West Africa. One of its treasures is an immense waterfall hidden behind a low mountain. Though hidden, its beauty stands out. This scene has become part of my inner self. A key aspect of my childhood in Togo was starting my education. Many children in Togo cannot attend school because they need to work to help support their families, but my parents could make it possible for me. I went to school in both Kpalime and Lomé. These were where I learned about the value of education. My brother and I moved to the United States when I was seven. The reason behind this move was to create better educational opportunities for us. Initially, it was hard to integrate into school in America because I did not speak English. It is a fulfilling experience because I use my language skills to help others understand and learn. Being bilingual is something I take pride in because it is also beneficial in the health field. At eight years old, I wanted to work in the medical field. Like many kids my age, my first thought was to become a doctor. As I grew, I noticed that doctors do not spend as much time with their patients as nurses. They helped their patients, but I wanted to do more than that. I want to hold the patients’ hands, reassure them they are incapable hands, and guide them through their entire stay at the hospital, from admission to release. My passion lies in talking to patients and building connections with them. Nurses get to do it, and I want to step into that role with them. My dream job is to be a pediatric nurse practitioner. I have learned a lot already that will help me be successful. Nursing requires many years of education, and I am grateful that my parents have made this possible for me. Being attentive to my surroundings will help me diagnose and understand my patients. Being a bridge between people will help me effectively communicate with my patients and their families. I am fortunate and want to help others succeed based on my advantages. Togo is a meaningful part of my story because it led me to where I am. I want to help create a health system in Togo where children and their parents can get the help they need. I plan to use the resources I gain from schooling and my future healthcare career to affect both the United States and Togo. Winning this scholarship would help decrease the stress of paying for my out-of-pocket costs so I can focus on my nursing studies and receive my Bachelor's in Nursing.

I was born in Kpalime, Togo, West Africa. One of its treasures is an immense waterfall hidden behind a low mountain. Though hidden, its beauty stands out. This scene has become part of my inner self. A key aspect of my childhood in Togo was starting my education. Many children in Togo cannot attend school because they need to work to help support their families, but my parents could make it possible for me. I went to school in both Kpalime and Lomé. These were where I learned about the value of education. My brother and I moved to the United States when I was seven. The reason behind this move was to create better educational opportunities for us. Initially, it was hard to integrate into school in America because I did not speak English. It is a fulfilling experience because I use my language skills to help others understand and learn. Being bilingual is something I take pride in because it is also beneficial in the health field. At eight years old, I wanted to work in the medical field. Like many kids my age, my first thought was to become a doctor. As I grew, I noticed that doctors do not spend as much time with their patients as nurses. They helped their patients, but I wanted to do more than that. I want to hold the patients’ hands, reassure them they are incapable hands, and guide them through their entire stay at the hospital, from admission to release. Talking to patients and building connections with them is where my passion lies. Nurses get to do it, and I want to step into that role with them. My dream job is to be a pediatric nurse practitioner. I have learned a lot already that will help me be successful. Nursing requires many years of education, and I am grateful that my parents have made this possible for me. Being attentive to my surroundings will help me diagnose and understand my patients. Being a bridge between people will help me effectively communicate with my patients and their families. I am fortunate and want to help others succeed based on my advantages. Togo is a meaningful part of my story because it led me to where I am. I want to help create a health system in Togo and the United States where children and their parents can receive adequate care. I plan to use the resources I gain from schooling and my future healthcare career to affect both the United States and Togo. Shep Hyken says, “Recognise that every interaction you have is an opportunity to make a positive impact on others.” Every interaction I have is a chance to make a difference in an individual’s life. The effect can range from something small, like bringing a smile to an individual face, to something bigger, like changing their life. By receiving a degree in nursing and later becoming a pediatric nurse practitioner, I can leave a positive and healthy influence on many adolescents in America and Togo. As a Togolese immigrant and a first-generation college student, I know children who do not have the options or the best work-oriented environment to stay in school and succeed in their careers. However, because I am blessed to live in America and work toward my major, I want to take every opportunity my hands can get. It starts with me pursuing my academic and getting a degree.

Balancing work and school, especially in a field like nursing, has been both challenging and rewarding for me. In school, the rigorous coursework, clinical rotations, and extracurricular activities required a significant amount of time and dedication. Prioritizing assignments, studying efficiently, and managing deadlines became essential skills. Despite the challenges, the academic environment provided a rich learning experience, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving. It also allowed me to improve my clinical skills development. Additionally, collaborating with classmates and learning from experienced faculty members like the nurses and my instructors enriched my education and prepared me for the challenges that lay ahead in my nursing career. In my work role, I serve as a floater, cashier, and backdoor worker, rotating between various responsibilities to support daily store operations and meet customer needs. This dynamic role has honed my multitasking abilities and adaptability, as I seamlessly transition between tasks as needed. Providing exceptional customer service is at the forefront of my responsibilities, whether assisting customers, addressing inquiries, or ensuring a positive shopping experience. Operating the cash register with efficiency and accuracy is another crucial aspect of my role, where I handle transactions and manage cash responsibilities diligently. As a backdoor worker, I collaborate with the team to receive and organize donations, ensuring proper sorting and inventory management. This multifaceted work experience has further developed my interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and ability to work effectively in a team environment. Having a flexible job that can accommodate me is very helpful. It makes the balance less stressful, and my workplace gave me that. My usual day includes first scheduling out what I will do and how my day will go and then proceeding with that plan. Some days, I work right after class, like on Monday to pick up a work shift or Wednesday afternoon after my morning class. My personal and professional growth has allowed me to better interact with my patients during clinical. Working and going to school means I can adapt to different environments and improve my people skills by communicating with various customers and clients/families. Outside of work and school, I am sometimes tired and lacking the emotional and physical strength to further communicate with others via messages and calls like I used to. However, when I am in an atmosphere surrounded by friends and family, I am happy to interact. Though the balance at moments is difficult, I can and will always prevail because Jesus is with me.

I was born in Kpalime, Togo. One of its treasures is an immense waterfall hidden behind a low mountain. Though hidden, its beauty stands out. This scene has become part of my inner self. A key aspect of my childhood in Togo was starting my education. Many children in Togo cannot attend school because they need to work to help support their families, but my parents could make it possible for me. I went to school in both Kpalime and Lomé. These were where I learned about the value of education. My brother and I moved to the United States when I was seven. The reason behind this move was to create better educational opportunities for us. Initially, it was hard to integrate into school in America because I did not speak English. It is a fulfilling experience because I use my language skills to help others understand and learn. Being bilingual is something I take pride in because it is also beneficial in the health field. At eight years old, I wanted to work in the medical field. Like many kids my age, my first thought was to become a doctor. As I grew, I noticed that doctors do not spend as much time with their patients as nurses. They helped their patients, but I wanted to do more than that. I want to hold the patients’ hands, reassure them they are incapable hands, and guide them through their entire stay at the hospital, from admission to release. Talking to patients and building connections with them is where my passion lies. Nurses get to do it, and I want to step into that role with them. My dream job is to be a pediatric nurse practitioner. I have learned a lot already that will help me be successful. Nursing requires many years of education, and I am grateful that my parents have made this possible for me. Being attentive to my surroundings will help me diagnose and understand my patients. Being a bridge between people will help me effectively communicate with my patients and their families. I am fortunate and want to help others succeed based on my advantages. Togo is a meaningful part of my story because it led me to where I am. I want to help create a health system in Togo where children and their parents can get the help they need. I plan to use the resources I gain from schooling and my future healthcare career to affect both the United States and Togo. Through receiving this scholarship, I will be honoring Aaryn Railyn King by being able to educate future patients about taking care of their health and taking early action. Shep Hyken says, “Recognize that every interaction you have is an opportunity to make a positive impact on others.” Every interaction I have is a chance to make a difference in an individual’s life. The effect can range from something small, like bringing a smile to an individual face, or something bigger, like changing their life. By receiving a degree in nursing and later becoming a pediatric nurse practitioner, I can leave a positive and healthy influence on many adolescents in America and Togo. As a Togolese immigrant and a first-generation college student, I know children who do not have the options or the best work-oriented environment to stay in school and succeed in their careers. However, because I am blessed to live in America to work toward my major, I want to take every opportunity my hands can get. It starts with me pursuing my academic and getting a degree.

I was born in Kpalime, Togo, West Africa. One of its treasures is an immense waterfall hidden behind a low mountain. Though hidden, its beauty stands out. This scene has become part of my inner self. A key aspect of my childhood in Togo was starting my education. Many children in Togo cannot attend school because they need to work to help support their families, but my parents could make it possible for me. I went to school in both Kpalime and Lomé. These were where I learned about the value of education. My brother and I moved to the United States when I was seven. The reason behind this move was to create better educational opportunities for us. Initially, it was hard to integrate into school in America because I did not speak English. It is a fulfilling experience because I use my language skills, Ewe, to help others understand and learn. Being bilingual is something I take pride in because it is also beneficial in the health field. At eight years old, I wanted to work in the medical field. Like many kids my age, my first thought was to become a doctor. As I grew, I noticed that doctors do not spend as much time with their patients as nurses. They helped their patients, but I wanted to do more than that. I want to hold the patients’ hands, reassure them they are incapable hands, and guide them through their entire stay at the hospital, from admission to release. Talking to patients and building connections with them is where my passion lies. Nurses get to do it, and I want to step into that role with them. My dream job is to be a pediatric nurse practitioner. I have learned a lot already that will help me be successful. Nursing requires many years of education, and I am grateful that my parents have made this possible for me. Being attentive to my surroundings will help me diagnose and understand my patients. Being a bridge between people will help me effectively communicate with my patients and their families. I am fortunate and want to help others succeed based on my advantages. Togo is a meaningful part of my story because it led me to where I am. I want to help create a health system in Togo where children and their parents can get the help they need. I plan to use the resources I gain from schooling and my future healthcare career to affect both the United States and Togo. Shep Hyken says, “Recognise that every interaction you have is an opportunity to make a positive impact on others.” Every interaction I have is a chance to make a difference in an individual’s life. The effect can range from something small, like bringing a smile to an individual face, or even changing their life. By receiving a degree in nursing and later becoming a pediatric nurse practitioner, I can leave a positive and healthy influence on many adolescents in America and Togo. As a Togolese immigrant and a first-generation college student, I know children who do not have the options or the best work-oriented environment to stay in school and succeed in their careers. However, because I am blessed to live in America to work toward my major, I want to take every opportunity my hands can get. It starts with me pursuing my academic and getting a degree.

A higher education means having a world of possibilities to live a sustainable life and the ability to provide for my family. My dream of becoming a pediatric nurse practitioner started when I was eight. I was born in Togo. Togo is an Éwé and French-speaking country. As a Togolese, attending school played a massive role in where I am today. I was fortunate to get an education, unlike other kids. Arriving in America, I made it my top priority to succeed in every aspect as I gain the knowledge to reach my academic career. School comes with work, and my school in Togo motivated me the desire to succeed in pursuing my career in the healthcare field. Children bring me joy, and I would help them in a heartbeat, whether that is healing or advising. I am determined and dedicated to my school education to pursue my career goal. As a Togolese immigrant and a first-generation college student, I know children who do not have the options or the best environment to stay in school. However, because I am fortunate to live in America to work toward my major, I want to take every opportunity I can receive. It starts with pursuing a career in pediatric medicine. My family's sacrifices to pave this path for me are something I do not want to take for granted. Using my resources has helped me prepare for college as a first-generation student. An example of this is that in the beginning, I got in contact with other students who were already in college. Having them to guide me in the process made the process less stressful. Another resource I used was the assistant provided in Common App to teach me how to write college and scholarship application essays and apply for colleges. Throughout the process, I had many questions about the information I struggled to understand. Having an assistant to aid me in how to get to college was the beginning of my success. Because of the language barrier, I had a relative educate my father on what the schools were asking meant. It put less stress on me to explain what I barely comprehend. I applied to a first-generation program called the TRIO program to assist me with the rest of my inquiries, FAFSA, and financial challenges to continue to excel in my college experience. From all these great resources, I can stand today with the slighter stress that comes with being a first-generation college student.

My most significant achievement is receiving my first straight A’s in sixth grade. It started in Kpalime, Togo, where I was born. Attending school there was a privilege because many kids cannot do the same because of their families' circumstances. I was blessed. My family knew that, so they started to instill the importance of education in me. Then four years later, I stepped into first grade in Charlotte, North Carolina. Learning English and the first-grade curriculum was strenuous. I had to adjust to this culture and how to communicate with others. Words in English meant something else to me, and I had to learn their definitions. I worked and studied for hours. Longer than most first graders. I tried my best but still felt like I was missing things because of my developing English. I grew and learned, and by middle school, I was ready. It was a fresh start that I eagerly took. My motivation and drive to succeed and do better kicked within. In my mind, I was ready to work hard for A’s with no exceptions to B’s. When I looked at the report card for the first quarter and saw my first straight A’s, I knew I could keep the determination moving when I accomplished that goal. Seeing how proud my family was of me taught me that if I put in the work for the interest in learning, I could succeed in my academics. My dream job is to be a pediatric nurse practitioner, and I hope to fulfill it someday. Where it all started at eight years old, I wanted to work in the medical field. Like many kids my age, my first thought was to become a doctor. As I grew, I noticed that doctors do not spend as much time with their patients as nurses. They helped their patients, but I wanted to do more than that. I want to hold the patients’ hands, reassure them they are incapable hands, and guide them through their entire stay at the hospital, from admission to release. Talking to patients and building connections with them is where my passion lies. Nurses get to do it, and I want to step into that role with them. I have learned a lot already that will help me be successful. Nursing requires many years of education, and I am grateful that my parents have made this possible for me. Being attentive to my surroundings will help me diagnose and understand my patients. Being a bridge between people will help me effectively communicate with my patients and their families. I realize I am fortunate and want to help others succeed based on my advantages. Togo is a meaningful part of my story as it led me to where I am. I want to help create a health system in Togo where children and their parents can get the help they need. I plan to use the resources I gain from schooling and my future healthcare career to affect both the United States and Togo.

My church community includes West African immigrants to the United States. The spoken language is Éwé, the native language in Togo and French. I want to give back to my community because I am fortunate to speak multiple languages. I read the Bible verse in English and translated it from Éwé to English for the children. Volunteering as a translator for my church has taught me how vital it is for children to understand the lesson from a preacher. Communicating to them in English helps them pay full attention to the little details of what the Bible verse may illustrate. Besides summarizing, I also ask the child questions about the lessons we have taught in the past. I ask them to be the storyteller and tell me the stories conveyed to see how much they understand. To leverage my program and positively impact my congregation, I would help create a better learning environment for the children during Bible lessons. The children join in Breakout Room on Zoom, where they learn more about the sermon and read and talk about their weekly Bible verse. Dialogues about how to apply the verse to their life also get discussed. Moreover, I am also hosting a Vacation Bible School during the summer. School is over, and kids have the chance to build a better relationship with God and learn by getting involved in different activities. Attending Vacation Bible School will allow each youth to incorporate the messages they learned in the Bible, such as forgiving others, not holding grudges, and being humble.

​​I was born in Kpalime, a rural town in Togo, West Africa. One of its treasures is an immense waterfall hidden behind a low mountain. Though it is hidden, its beauty stands out. This scene has become part of my inner self. A key aspect of my childhood in Togo was starting my education. Many children in Togo cannot attend school because they need to work to help support their families, but my parents could make it possible for me. I went to school in both Kpalime and Lomé. These were where I learned about the value of education. My father and brother inspired me with my dreams and goals. My brother and I moved to the United States when I was seven. The reason behind this move was to create better educational opportunities for us. Initially, I found it hard to integrate into school in America because I did not speak English. It is a fulfilling experience because I use my language skills to help others understand and learn. Being bilingual is something I take pride in because it can also be beneficial in the health field. At eight years old, I wanted to work in the medical field. Like many kids my age, my first thought was to become a doctor. As I grew, I noticed that doctors do not spend as much time with their patients as nurses. They helped their patients, but I wanted to do more than that. I want to hold the patients’ hands, reassure them they are incapable hands, and guide them through their entire stay at the hospital, from admission to release. Talking to patients and building connections with them is where my passion lies. Nurses get to do it, and I want to step into that role with them. My dream job is to be a pediatric nurse practitioner. I have learned a lot already that will help me be successful. Nursing requires many years of education, and I am grateful that my parents have made this possible for me. Being attentive to my surroundings will help me diagnose and understand my patients. Being a bridge between people will help me effectively communicate with my patients and their families. I realize I am fortunate, and I want to help others succeed based on the advantages I’ve had. Togo is a meaningful part of my story as it led me to where I am. I want to help create a health system in Togo where children and their parents can get the help they need. I plan to use the resources I gain from schooling and my future healthcare career to affect both the United States and Togo. Shep Hyken says, “Recognise that every interaction you have is an opportunity to make a positive impact on others.” Every interaction I have is a chance to make a difference in an individual’s life. The effect can range from something small like bringing a smile to an individual face or something bigger, like changing their life. By receiving a degree in nursing and later becoming a pediatric nurse practitioner, I can leave a positive and healthy influence on many adolescents in America and Togo. As a Togolese immigrant and a first-generation college student, I know children who do not have the options or the best work-oriented environment to stay in school and succeed in their careers. However, because I am blessed to be living in America to work towards my major, I want to take every opportunity my hands can get on. It starts with me pursuing my academic and getting a degree.

My favorite book is "A Long Way Gone: Memoirs of a Boy Soldier" by Ishmael Beah. While reading this memoir, I understood the world’s complexity. I learned that even today, there are people in different countries around the globe who are in danger. In Beah’s book, he gives a first-hand account as a child during the civil war in Sierra Leone. Though I felt a roller-coaster of emotions and sadness of pain, I still gained knowledge. As a Togolese-American, the stories of the hardships and wars it took to receive independence were challenging, let alone watching relatives and people die from war. Reading this autobiography allowed me to put myself in the author’s shoes and get educated. Getting to know the writer's life experience makes me committed to wanting to help change wherever part of the world to make it safer for the future generation. The earth's current challenges with gun violence and police brutality are one of the many issues that are a work in progress. Different countries have their complication with safety. Even though I am fortunate enough to live in a safe environment, reading this book back in middle school has opened my eyes to how not everyone does. I am part of the next generation, and I must stay informed about what is happening in the world and learn how to improve it.

The most helpful financial advice I have received is to start a credit card early. I learned that most students create credits during their sophomore year in college. The longer a person maintains a credit card, the easier it is to handle wanting to live in an apartment, house, buy a new car, etcetera. I can build credits by simply using a credit card to pay for gas for my car or buying groceries. It is excellent to purchase my everyday items while increasing my credits. Learning to begin early and monitoring a credit score in my early twenties was the best piece of financial advice I have received.

​​I was born in Kpalime, a rural town in Togo, West Africa. One of its treasures is an immense waterfall hidden behind a low mountain. Though it is hidden, its beauty stands out. This scene has become part of my inner self. A key aspect of my childhood in Togo was starting my education. Many children in Togo cannot attend school because they need to work to help support their families, but my parents could make it possible for me. I went to school in both Kpalime and Lomé. These were where I learned about the value of education. My brother and I moved to the United States when I was seven. The reason behind this move was to create better educational opportunities for us. Initially, I found it hard to integrate into school in America because I did not speak English. It is a fulfilling experience because I use my language skills to help others understand and learn. Being bilingual is something I take pride in because it can also be beneficial in the health field. At eight years old, I wanted to work in the medical field. Like many kids my age, my first thought was to become a doctor. As I grew, I noticed that doctors do not spend as much time with their patients as nurses. They helped their patients, but I wanted to do more than that. I want to hold the patients’ hands, reassure them they are incapable hands, and guide them through their entire stay at the hospital, from admission to release. Talking to patients and building connections with them is where my passion lies. Nurses get to do it, and I want to step into that role with them. My dream job is to be a pediatric nurse practitioner. I have learned a lot already that will help me be successful. Nursing requires many years of education, and I am grateful that my parents have made this possible for me. Being attentive to my surroundings will help me diagnose and understand my patients. Being a bridge between people will help me effectively communicate with my patients and their families. I realize I am fortunate, and I want to help others succeed based on the advantages I’ve had. Togo is a meaningful part of my story as it led me to where I am. I want to help create a health system in Togo where children and their parents can get the help they need. I plan to use the resources I gain from schooling and my future healthcare career to affect both the United States and Togo. Shep Hyken says, “Recognise that every interaction you have is an opportunity to make a positive impact on others.” Every interaction I have is a chance to make a difference in an individual’s life. The effect can range from something small like bringing a smile to an individual face or something bigger, like changing their life. By receiving a degree in nursing and later becoming a pediatric nurse practitioner, I can leave a positive and healthy influence on many adolescents in America and Togo. As a Togolese immigrant and a first-generation college student, I know children who do not have the options or the best work-oriented environment to stay in school and succeed in their careers. However, because I am blessed to be living in America to work towards my major, I want to take every opportunity my hands can get on. It starts with me pursuing my academic and getting a degree.

A crucial life lesson I have learned is the effectiveness of communication. Many people, including myself, know the magnitude of communicating. I grew up in a household that made it hard for me to speak my mind. I get told I am starting an argument whenever I state my opinion or reasoning. Sometimes my school hosts events after school, which mandates transportation or an adult. When I voice it, complaints and other things come after. Over time, I became unmotivated to want to speak about particular topics because, in my head, I already knew the response. I can communicate with other adults and friends successfully, but it is still a challenge with family. Yet, no situation regarding my academics will prevent me from articulating my grades concerns to my professors or my advisor about what I need. However, it remains a learning curve with my parents, siblings, and other relatives. To give a short story, I had the chance to babysit for a week. Babysitting is something I love to do. I completed the first step in speaking to my parents about my desire to take the week-long job. The last task I had to complete was to tell my father about both of my sisters’ approval of the job offer. However, when the time and two days of shots came for me to express what my sisters told me to my father, I blew it. The lack of discipline in voicing my ideas and plans prevented me from taking on the babysitting job. Eminem once said, “You only get one shot. Do not miss your chance to blow. This opportunity comes once in a lifetime.” Now, I no longer have the fantastic summer job that could have been mine. Every interaction in life needs a clear understanding of a conversation. I am practicing how to improve my articulation of vital information every day. The better I can speak my mind when I know it is necessary, the fewer the missed opportunities and consequences that come ahead. When I communicate effortlessly, I will not have to worry about missing my shot and the chance to blow. The experience of saying goodbye to the deposit that could have made my bank account look beautiful and helped me out with college costs showed me I have to change my habit of not declaring my thoughts. No communication can mean no substance to relationships. I became stronger knowing that my relationship with my family and others can drastically improve when I open my mouth to talk when needed. No one has mouths to stay mute. Mines still move, and while it does, I will use them to vocalize for others and myself.

1. I deserve this scholarship because I am already rich enough to need it. My bank account shed no tears. All it does is thrive, and winning this scholarship will help it develop its status. It will give a “Don’t hate me because I’m beautiful” vibe. 2. My career goal is to become a millionaire by working as a doctor in my clinic. I would also love to own part of the property here in the United States and in Togo, my birth town. School can guide me on that path. 3. The time I had to overcome nothing was when I was born to the age before I had to start school. Life was cruel during that time, but I made it out okay. The young, not innocent life had its share of gifts that taught me how to grow as a person. The life of nothing obstacle was a blessing in disguise, and I would forever cherish it.

The world waits for no one. I remembered this during my darkest time. Being drained mentally made me feel more alone. I had no energy or desire to speak to others. When I would laugh, I knew it was not genuine. Loneliness felt better during that time. Academically, I was getting my work done. However, I still felt distant whenever I was around family and friends. Therefore, during one of those times, I wrote a poem called "Dry." With the help of my friend, he turned it into a song. My poem becoming a song was my part of the light out of the tunnel. I wrote poems during my darkest times to see where my mind was. I did not lose hope in my dreams. I know it is going to happen. However, my relationship with my friends, family, and others changed. I had no motivation to want to speak. The world felt lost to me as I grew a bit away from God. However, I knew God did not give up on me even when it felt hard. My religion as a Christian is an enormous part of who I am. Without God, I am nothing. Ephesians 2:10 says, "For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." What I had to do was trust in Him and work. All it takes is a leap of faith. https://soundcloud.com/hilda954/dry-hildayawa-song-by-xxs234?utm_source=mobi&utm_campaign=social_sharing&utm_terms=mobi_google_one_tap.treatment

​​I was born in Kpalime, a rural town in Togo, West Africa. One of its treasures is an immense waterfall hidden behind a low mountain. Though it is hidden, its beauty stands out. This scene has become part of my inner self. A key aspect of my childhood in Togo was starting my education. Many children in Togo cannot attend school because they need to work to help support their families, but my parents could make it possible for me. I went to school in both Kpalime and Lomé. These were where I learned about the value of education. My brother and I moved to the United States when I was seven. The reason behind this move was to create better educational opportunities for us. Initially, I found it hard to integrate into school in America because I did not speak English. It is a fulfilling experience because I use my language skills to help others understand and learn. Being bilingual is something I take pride in because it can also be beneficial in the health field. At eight years old, I wanted to work in the medical field. Like many kids my age, my first thought was to become a doctor. As I grew, I noticed that doctors do not spend as much time with their patients as nurses. They helped their patients, but I wanted to do more than that. I want to hold the patients’ hands, reassure them they are incapable hands, and guide them through their entire stay at the hospital, from admission to release. Talking to patients and building connections with them is where my passion lies. Nurses get to do it, and I want to step into that role with them. My dream job is to be a pediatric nurse. I have learned a lot already that will help me be successful. Nursing requires many years of education, and I am grateful that my parents have made this possible for me. Being attentive to my surroundings will help me diagnose and understand my patients. Being a bridge between people will help me effectively communicate with my patients and their families. I realize I am fortunate, and I want to help others succeed based on the advantages I’ve had. Togo is a meaningful part of my story as it led me to where I am. I want to help create a health system in Togo where children and their parents can get the help they need. I plan to use the resources I gain from schooling and my future healthcare career to make an impact on others, both in the United States and Togo.

College helps give degrees. It allows for financial stability once there is a set career. If a peer told me they did not want to attend college, I would ask them why. There has to be a reason why my friend does not believe college is right for them. College can be expensive, but it is not only the beautifully framed degree that matters. I would let them know that a person with a college degree is more likely to get a job position than someone without it. The same goes for a person with a high school diploma compared to not having one. Going to college does not mean going to a university. There is a community college that helps students save lots of money. If my friend did not want to go to college, I would tell them to pray about it and pray for clarity before making their final decision. Going to a community school for a semester would also be great for part of the college experience. It will give them a wiggle room to decide if they find an interest they want to pursue and maybe continue their education. If the decision is not right now, there is always an opportunity to continue later.

Knitting, playing piano, and cooking are my favorite hobbies. When TV commercials had Loom knitting kits back in the old days, I was always intrigued and wanted one. Then, one year for Christmas in middle school, I received a knitting kit. It was not the Looms, but I was just as excited. In the kit were the wooden needles with rainbow color yarns that are excellent for beginners. Since then, I picked back up on the task to gain more skills. Now, I am on a new project of making my tank top. In Middle school, I started taking piano lessons. Listening to a piano played always made me happy. The sound is relaxing, and beautiful words cannot even describe it. There was a time I stopped playing for a while, but whenever I see one, I test myself to what I can remember. I have a personal project to learn how to play Ocean (Where Feet May Fail) by Hillsong UNITED. I have the rhythm and only need to perfect it. Soon enough, I can play it and any song with my eyes closed. Cooking is love expressed on a plate. Cooking my traditional Togolese dish for my college friends to cry is the best satisfaction when it means they have food in their stomachs. I can learn about different cultures and improve my skills when I cook. Eating a self masterpiece is also another excellent part of working for the hands with mixing in the kitchen. Walt Whitman says, "Do anything, but let it produce joy." That is what my hobbies do for me. It produces joy.

My dream job is to be a pediatric nurse practitioner. Nursing requires many years of education, and I am grateful that my parents have made this possible. Backtracking, I was born in Togo. As a Togolese, going to school played a huge role in bringing me to where I am today. Many children in Africa labor instead of going to school to help support their families. I was fortunate to get an education. I made it my top priority once I arrived in America to succeed in every aspect. Transitioning from speaking Éwé to English during elementary school was challenging. However, I am gaining the knowledge to reach my academic career. School comes with work, and my school in Togo provided me with the motivation to want to succeed in pursuing my career in the healthcare field. This dream started when I was eight years old when I knew I wanted to work in the medical field. Like kids my age, my first thought was to become a doctor. Over time, I noticed that doctors do not spend as much time with their patients compared to nurses. I want to provide more support to my patients than just medical care. By holding their hands, giving a reassuring presence, and helping guide them through their stay at the hospital from admission to discharge. Additionally, as an Éwé-speaking nurse, I will be able to impact a wider group of patients. My passion lies in being able to talk to patients and connect with them while they are in the healing process. This is the role I want to play in the healthcare system. Togo needs a better healthcare system. As a nurse, I hope to deliver knowledge and medical care to provide better quality medical services for the people in my country.

Socializing, listening to music, and cooking brings me joy. As an optimistic person, lots of things make me happy. However, these three things I consider my top tiers of enjoyment. In an African household with older siblings growing up, it was challenging for me to have long conversations with them. I have an energetic ability they cannot match. However, my energy gets reciprocated by my friends or people my age, allowing me to express myself. There is no limit to my freedom when I am with a group of friends or like-minded people. I get understood in ways my siblings and parents cannot. I am constantly having a good time with my friends, no matter the day, even when everyone is stressing out about exams. Music is a common satisfaction to the heart. For me, listening to gospel music is what does the job. There is a song, in particular, called Joy Overflow by Joepraize, that has no other purpose but to bring joy into my life! Whether I am stressed, worried, lost, or in tears, this song brings me excitement and gets me dancing or cheering every time. My healing medicine is singing and dancing out the overwhelming feelings. Cooking is love expressed on a plate. Cooking my traditional Togolese dish for my college friends to try is the best satisfaction when it means they have food in their stomachs. I can learn about different cultures and improve my skills when I cook. Eating a self masterpiece is also another excellent part of working with the hands with mixing in the kitchen. If it is not the interaction or the gospel music that will bring me bliss in misery, then cooking will solve the problem.

"A kind gesture can reach a wound that only compassion can heal" - Steve Maraboli All it takes to change a life is a bit of support. Listening and giving advice to those who want it is my favorite way of helping others. I love speaking, but I also love using ears to hear. Not the listening that comprises allowing the words to go from one ear to another, but the consistent ear and understanding as the person is speaking. Healing or aiding people brings me lots of joy, and that is what I want to continue in my life. I can no longer count how many times people in my life have come to me to hear my opinion on situations, and I could guide them to decide where they want to go. I see this as part of my gift I can share with others. Taking care of children like my nephews and niece also brings me joy. Even when they are hardheaded and do not listen, I still enjoy being around and aiding them. Sometimes it is their homework or making sure they have food to eat. It is frustrating when they ask lots of questions, do not want to pay attention, or want to use their ears to listen. However, despite the conflicts, I know they eventually will. Looking at them as they accomplish the minor tasks reminds me of how they can learn from me by leading by example. All it takes is patience.

My educational goal is to receive the required education for my future career. My experience taking care of my nieces and nephews since birth has broadened my interest in wanting to become a pediatric nurse practitioner. In the countless hours that I have and continue to take care of them, I have enjoyed learning how to engage them whether in play or storytelling and I anticipate interacting with children while figuring out the best way to treat or help them. Therefore my dream job is to be a pediatric nurse. Nursing requires many years of education, and I am grateful that my parents have made it possible that I am able get an education in America and even the opportunity to become a pediatric nurse. Getting my education will allow me to be attentive to my surroundings to help me diagnose and understand my patients and be a bridge for people to communicate with my patients and their families. Not everyone has the opportunity to go to school. However, I am fortunate, and I want to help others succeed based on the advantages I’ve had. Shep Hyken says, “Recognise that every interaction you have is an opportunity to make a positive impact on others.” Every interaction I have is a chance to make a difference in an individual’s life. The effect can range from something small like bringing a smile to an individual face or something bigger, like changing their life. By becoming a pediatric nurse practitioner, I can leave a positive impact on many adolescents. As a Togolese-American and a first-generation college student, I take it upon myself to leave a positive and healthy outcome for others in America and Togo, Africa. I know children who do not have the options or the best environment to stay in both school and work-oriented to succeed in their careers. Because I am blessed to live in America to work towards my major, I want to take every available opportunity that I come across. Togo is a meaningful part of my story as it led me to where I am. I want to help create a health system in Togo where children and their parents can get the help they need. I plan to use the resources I gain from my schooling and my future healthcare career to have a positive impact on others, both in the United States and in Togo.

​​I was born in Kpalime, a rural town in Togo, West Africa. One of its treasures is an immense waterfall hidden behind a low mountain. Though it is partly hidden, its beauty stands out. This scene has become part of my inner self. A key aspect of my childhood in Togo was starting my education. Many children in Togo cannot go to school because they need to work to help support their families, but my parents were able to make it possible for me. I went to school in both Kpalime and Lomé. These were where I learned about the importance of education. My brother and I moved to the United States when I was seven years old. A huge reason behind this move was to create better educational opportunities for us. Initially, I found it hard to integrate into school in America because I did not speak English. It is a fulfilling experience because I use my language skills to help others understand and learn. My bilingual capability is something I take much pride in that can also be beneficial in the health field. At eight years old, I wanted to work in the medical field. Like many kids my age, my first thought was becoming a doctor. As I got older, I noticed that doctors do not spend as much time with their patients compared to nurses. They helped their patients, but I wanted to do more than that. I want to hold the patients’ hands, reassure them that they are incapable hands, and guide them through their entire stay at the hospital, from admission to release. Talking to patients and building connections with them is where my passion lies. Nurses got to do all that, and I want to step into that role with them. My dream job is to be a pediatric nurse. I have learned a lot already that will help me be successful. Nursing requires many years of education, and I am grateful that my parents have made this possible for me. Being attentive to my surroundings will help me diagnose and understand my patients. Being a bridge between people will help me effectively communicate with my patients and their families. I realize I am fortunate, and I want to help others succeed based on the advantages I’ve had. Togo is a meaningful part of my story as it led me to where I am. I want to help create a health system in Togo where children and their parents can get the help they need. I plan to use the resources I gain from my schooling and my future healthcare career to make a difference to others, both in the United States and in Togo.

Songs from the L'amener Sur playlist by Meadow: "BRING IT ON" P-SQUARE "LIFE" G WHIZZ "BREATHE" JONNY DIAZ "VICTORY" EBEN " SMILE" KIRK FRANKLIN "NO WAHALA" 1DA BANTON

Hunter X Hunter is the anime that has affected me. Hunter X Hunter gave me a new perspective of always being willing to overcome obstacles. Gon Freecss, despite his age and height, was ready to go against Hisoka and aim to defeat him. Even when he lost multiple times, he never gave up on finding different ways to try again. As naïve as he may be, he always wanted to learn new things. His mission was to find his father, and he made sure nothing stopped him from accomplishing his goal. Gon’s perseverance reminds me of my determination in wanting to succeed in school and become who I am supposed to be. Hunter X Hunter has moved me to want to be consistent in my motivations for my dreams.

​​I was born in Kpalimé, a rural town in Togo, West Africa. One of its treasures is an immense waterfall hidden behind a low mountain. Though it is partly hidden, its beauty stands out. This scene has become part of my inner self. A key aspect of my childhood in Togo was starting my education. Many children in Togo do not have the opportunity to go to school because they need to work to help support their families, but my parents were able to make it possible for me. I went to school in both Kpalime and Lomé. This is where I learned about the importance of education. My brother and I moved to the United States when I was seven years old. A huge reason behind this move was to create better educational opportunities for us. Initially, I found it hard to integrate at school in America because I did not speak English. This experience is very fulfilling because I have a chance to use my language skills to help others understand and learn. My bilingual capability is something I take much pride in, that can also be beneficial in the health field. At eight years old, I wanted to work in the medical field. Attending college is one of the many steps to get there. Like many kids my age, my first thought was becoming a doctor. As I got older I started to notice that doctors do not spend as much time with their patients compared to nurses. They helped their patients, but I wanted to do more than that. I wanted to be there to hold the patients' hands, reassure them that they are incapable hands, and guide them through their whole stay at the hospital, from admission to release. My passion lies in being able to talk to patients and build connections with them. Nurses got to do all that, and I want to step into that role with them. My dream job is to be a pediatric nurse. I’ve learned a lot already that will help me be successful. Nursing requires many years of education, and I am grateful that my parents have made this possible for me. Being attentive to my surroundings will help me diagnose and understand my patients. Being a bridge between people will help me effectively communicate with my patients and their families. Education is a privilege, and I must take advantage of it. I realize that I am fortunate, and I want to help others succeed based on the advantages I’ve had. Togo is a meaningful part of my story as it led me to where I am. I want to help create a health system in Togo where children and their parents can get the help they need. I plan to use the resources I gain from my schooling and my future healthcare career to make a difference to others, both in the United States and in Togo.

Shep Hyken says, “Recognise that every interaction you have is an opportunity to make a positive impact on others.” I have a dream to become a pediatric nurse practitioner. A passion of mine is being able to help people, especially children. As a Togolese-American and a first-generation college student, it is part of my duty to leave a positive and healthy impact on others in America and Togo, Africa. I am very determined and dedicated to my school education to pursue my career goal. I know children who do not have the options or the best environment to stay in both school and work-oriented to succeed in their careers. However, because I am fortunate to live in America to work towards my major, I want to take every available opportunity that I come across. I want to help kids succeed based on the advantages I’ve had. Togo is a meaningful part of my story as it led me to where I am. I want to help create a health system in Togo where children and their parents can get the help they need. I plan to use the resources I gain from my schooling and my future healthcare career to make a difference to others, both in the United States and in Togo.

I am incredibly thankful for my second sister, Akou Attitso. She is my moral support, the first person I turn to when I need help. She has always been my provider when it came to buying me clothes, necessity items, and even needing help drawing a picture for a class. After losing my mother when I was seven years old, having my sibling to play that parental role is a blessing. For that, my second sister deserves the gold trophy for how supportive she has been of me. As I am fortunate to have siblings in my life, I am thankful to have an amazing sister named Akou Attitso.