Being a single parent to three young boys has greatly affected my academic journey, but it has also made me stronger and more determined to succeed. Balancing school, work, and raising children on my own can be very challenging. There are many long days where I go from work to school and then home to take care of my family responsibilities. Even though it can feel overwhelming at times, my children is my biggest motivation to continue working hard and pursuing my goals. I have been working in the healthcare field since 2005 as a CNA, and I currently work full time at a psychiatric hospital while attending nursing school. Managing my time between work, studying, and parenting has required a lot of sacrifice and discipline. There have been moments when I felt exhausted, but I remind myself that earning my degree will create a better future for my family and allow me to continue helping others through nursing. I am currently pursuing my nursing degree because I have a strong passion for patient care and helping families during important moments in their lives. After I graduate, I hope to work in the labor and delivery unit. I have always admired the nurses who care for mothers and newborn babies during such emotional and life changing experiences. I want to be able to support women during childbirth, provide compassionate care, and help families welcome their babies into the world safely. My experiences as a single mother have taught me patience, compassion, and perseverance. These qualities will help me become a caring and dedicated nurse. I am committed to finishing my degree and making a positive difference in the lives of my future patients and their families.

Having a family member with disabilities has had a major impact on my life and has helped shape the person I am today. It taught me compassion, patience, responsibility, and the importance of caring for others during difficult times. These experiences also played a big role in leading me toward a career in nursing. Through helping care for my family, I discovered how meaningful it is to support people who are facing health challenges and how much difference kindness and proper care can make in someone’s life. One of the most important experiences in my life was helping care for my father after he lost his leg due to complications from diabetes. Watching him go through such a life changing event was heartbreaking for our family. He had to adjust physically, emotionally, and mentally after the amputation. During that time, I helped with his wound care and assisted him with daily activities. I learned how important it was to make sure his wound stayed clean and properly cared for in order to prevent infection and help with healing. I also learned how important emotional support is during recovery because losing a limb affected his confidence and independence. Helping my father during this difficult period taught me a lot about strength and resilience. Even though the situation is challenging, I wanted to do everything I could to help him feel comfortable and cared for. This experience made me realize how important nurses are in the healing process. Nurses not only provide medical care, but they also encourage patients, educate families, and help people through some of the hardest moments of their lives. Seeing the care my father received inspired me to continue my own journey in healthcare. My experiences with my father also helped me develop patience and empathy. Caring for someone with disabilities requires understanding and compassion because every day can bring new challenges. I learned to listen carefully, pay attention to small changes, and be supportive even when situations became stressful. These qualities have helped me both personally and professionally, especially in my work with patients. I have been working in the nursing field since 2005 as a CNA, and those years of experience have strengthened my passion for helping others. Currently, I work full time at a psychiatric hospital while pursuing my nursing degree. My experiences caring for my father and working with patients have shown me how important it is to treat every person with dignity and respect, no matter their condition or circumstances. As a single mother, balancing work, school, and family responsibilities has not been easy, but my experiences have made me more determined to succeed. I want to continue growing in the nursing profession so I can provide the best care possible to my patients. My goal is to become a nurse who not only helps patients physically, but also supports them emotionally during difficult times. Overall, having a family member with disabilities has deeply shaped my life and inspired my journey in nursing. Caring for my father taught me the value of compassion, patience, and dedication. Those experiences continue to motivate me to pursue my nursing degree and make a positive difference in the lives of others every day.

Since 2005, I have dedicated my life to the nursing field by working as a Certified Nursing Assistant. Over the years, I have cared for patients with many different needs, and those experiences inspired me to continue my education and pursue an advanced nursing degree. Working closely with nurses and patients helped me realize that nursing is more than a job to me. It is a career where I can make a meaningful difference in people’s lives every day. One of the biggest inspirations for continuing my education has been my desire to provide better care for patients. As a CNA, I learned the importance of compassion, patience, and communication. However, I also saw that nurses have a greater role in decision making, treatment planning, and patient advocacy. I want to expand my knowledge and skills so I can take on more responsibility and provide a higher level of care. Pursuing a nursing degree will allow me to grow professionally and become a stronger support system for my patients and their families. Another reason I decided to pursue this degree is my current experience working full time at a psychiatric hospital. Mental health is an area of nursing that has become very important to me. I work with patients who struggle with emotional, behavioral, and psychological challenges, and I have seen how much compassionate nursing care can positively impact their recovery. Many patients in psychiatric care feel misunderstood or alone, and I want to help change that by being a nurse who listens, supports, and treats every patient with dignity and respect. Being a single mother has also motivated me to continue my education. Balancing work, school, and family responsibilities has not been easy, but it has taught me perseverance, discipline, and time management. I want to create a stable and successful future for my child while also setting an example of hard work and determination. I believe earning my nursing degree will open more opportunities for career advancement and financial stability for my family. My long term goal in nursing is to continue working in psychiatric and mental health care. I hope to become a psychiatric nurse who helps patients manage mental illness and improve their quality of life. I want to educate patients and families about mental health while also helping reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness. In the future, I may even pursue additional certifications or advanced practice roles within psychiatric nursing so I can have a greater impact in the field. Overall, my journey in nursing has been driven by compassion, personal growth, and a strong desire to help others. From working as a CNA since 2005 to pursuing my nursing degree today, each step has strengthened my commitment to patient care. Although the path has been challenging at times, especially as a single mother working full time, these experiences have made me more determined to succeed. I am excited to continue growing in the nursing profession and to use my education and experience to make a positive difference in the lives of others.

My experience with mental health has shaped my goals, relationships, and understanding of the world in many important ways. Working in a psychiatric hospital has allowed me to see how deeply mental health affects individuals and families. I have learned that many people struggle silently with depression, anxiety, trauma, and emotional pain. These experiences have made me more compassionate, understanding, and determined to help others through my future nursing career. One of the most painful experiences in my life was losing my stepson to suicide at the age of 20. His death changed my life forever and opened my eyes to how serious mental health struggles can be. It showed me that emotional pain is not always visible and that many people suffer quietly without others fully understanding what they are going through. Losing him was heartbreaking for our family, but it also strengthened my desire to help people who may feel alone, hopeless, or unsupported. Because of this experience, I have become more aware of the importance of mental health care and emotional support. I now understand how important it is for people to feel heard, cared for, and supported during difficult times. Sometimes a kind conversation, patience, or simply listening can make a difference in someone’s life. I want to be the kind of nurse who treats every patient with compassion and dignity, especially those struggling with mental health challenges. My work in a psychiatric hospital has also shaped my understanding of the world. I have seen patients from all backgrounds struggle with mental illness, addiction, trauma, and grief. These experiences taught me not to judge others because everyone is fighting battles that may not be visible on the outside. Working in mental health has helped me become more patient, empathetic, and understanding in both my personal life and my career. Another experience that inspired me was helping care for my father after he had his leg amputated because of complications from diabetes. Supporting him during his recovery showed me how important emotional and physical care are together. Seeing both my father’s struggles and my stepson’s mental health challenges helped me realize that healthcare is about caring for the whole person, not just treating illnesses. As a single mother of three boys, these life experiences have also affected the way I raise my children. I encourage open communication and want them to know that it is okay to ask for help when they are struggling emotionally. I want them to grow up understanding the importance of mental health and compassion toward others. In the future, I hope to make a positive impact through nursing by supporting patients emotionally as well as physically. I also want to help reduce the stigma surrounding mental health so more people feel comfortable seeking help. Although losing my stepson was one of the hardest experiences of my life, it inspired me to continue helping others and reminded me how important compassion, understanding, and support truly are.

I have chosen to pursue a degree in healthcare because I have always had a passion for helping others and caring for people during difficult times in their lives. Working in the healthcare field since 2005 has given me many experiences that strengthened my desire to become a nurse. I have seen how important healthcare workers are to patients and families, not only by treating illnesses but also by providing comfort, encouragement, and emotional support. Through my work and personal experiences, I realized that healthcare is more than just a career for me it is a way to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. One of the biggest inspirations for pursuing a healthcare degree has been my father. He had his leg amputated because of complications from diabetes, and helping care for him during his recovery changed my life. I helped with his wound care and supported him through the physical and emotional struggles he faced after surgery. Watching him go through such a difficult experience showed me how important compassionate nurses and healthcare workers are. I saw how much kindness, patience, and proper care helped him during his recovery, and that inspired me to continue my education so I could provide the same support to others. Another reason I chose healthcare is because of my current job at a psychiatric hospital. Working in mental health has taught me the importance of compassion, understanding, and treating every patient with dignity and respect. Many patients struggle with feeling alone or misunderstood, and I want to be someone who helps them feel safe and supported. My experiences have shown me that healthcare workers can have a powerful impact on patients, not only physically but emotionally as well. As a woman in healthcare, I hope to make a positive impact by being a strong, compassionate, and supportive nurse for my patients and their families. I know that many patients feel vulnerable or afraid during medical situations, and I want to be someone who helps them feel heard and cared for. I also want to inspire other women, especially single mothers like myself, to continue pursuing their goals even when life becomes difficult. Being a single mother of three boys while working full time and attending nursing school full time has taught me determination, resilience, and perseverance. There have been many challenges along the way, but I continue pushing forward because I want to create a better future for my family and show my children the importance of hard work and education. I hope my journey can inspire others who may feel discouraged or believe their goals are out of reach. In the future, I plan to continue making a difference by providing compassionate and quality care to every patient I meet. I also hope to advocate for mental health awareness and support women and families during difficult times. Through nursing, I want to help people heal, feel supported, and know they are not alone. Healthcare is a career that allows me to combine my passion for helping others with my personal experiences, and I am excited to continue growing and making a positive impact in my community.

I have chosen to pursue nursing because I have always had a passion for helping others and caring for people during difficult times in their lives. Working in the healthcare field since 2005 has given me the opportunity to see how important nurses are to patients and families. Nurses provide not only medical care, but also emotional support, encouragement, and comfort. Through my personal and professional experiences, I realized that nursing is more than just a career for me it is my calling. One of the biggest reasons I chose nursing was because of my father. He had his leg amputated because of complications from diabetes, and helping care for him during his recovery changed my life. I assisted with his wound care and supported him through the physical and emotional challenges he faced. Watching him go through such a difficult experience taught me the importance of compassion and patience in healthcare. It also inspired me to become a nurse so I could help other patients and families during challenging times. I currently work full time at a psychiatric hospital while attending nursing school full time. Working in mental health has taught me how important it is to treat every patient with dignity, kindness, and understanding. Many patients feel alone or misunderstood, and I have learned how powerful compassionate care can be. My experiences in healthcare have strengthened my desire to continue helping others and making a positive difference in people’s lives. After I graduate, I plan to work in the labor and delivery unit. I have chosen this specialty because I want to care for mothers and babies during one of the most important moments in their lives. Bringing a child into the world is a life changing experience, and I want to provide support, comfort, and quality care to families during that special time. I also understand that labor and delivery can sometimes be stressful or emotional for mothers, especially for first time parents. I want to be a nurse who helps patients feel safe, supported, and cared for throughout the entire process. As a mother of three boys myself, I understand the emotions, fears, and excitement that come with pregnancy and childbirth. My experiences as a mother have given me compassion and understanding for other women going through the same journey. I believe this personal connection will help me provide better care and emotional support to my future patients. At this time, I have not received specialized training in stoma care, but I am open to continuing my education and learning new skills throughout my nursing career. I believe nurses should always continue growing and improving so they can provide the best possible care to their patients. Nursing is a career that allows me to combine my passion for helping others with my personal experiences and dedication to serving my community. My goal is to make a positive impact by providing compassionate care, supporting families, and helping patients feel respected and valued during some of the most important moments of their lives.

Being a single parent has shaped my educational journey in many ways. As a mother of three boys, balancing school, work, and family responsibilities has been one of the biggest challenges of my life. I currently work full time at a psychiatric hospital while also attending nursing school full time. There have been many long days and sleepless nights, but these experiences have taught me strength, determination, and perseverance. Being a single parent has pushed me to work harder because I know my children are depending on me to create a better future for our family. There have been times when I felt overwhelmed trying to manage everything at once. Between studying for exams, working long hours, and taking care of my children, it can be difficult to find time for myself. However, becoming a single parent also gave me a stronger sense of purpose. My children motivate me every day to continue my education and never give up on my goals. I want them to see that even when life is difficult, hard work and dedication can help you succeed. Being a single parent has also taught me valuable life skills that have helped me grow both personally and professionally. I have learned how to manage my time, stay organized, and remain focused even during stressful situations. These skills are important in nursing because healthcare workers must stay calm and focused while caring for patients. My experiences as a mother have also made me more compassionate and understanding toward others who may be facing struggles in their own lives. Another experience that shaped my journey was helping care for my father after he had his leg amputated because of complications from diabetes. Supporting him during his recovery inspired me to pursue nursing and showed me the importance of compassionate healthcare. Seeing the difference that nurses made in my father’s life strengthened my desire to help others in the same way. In the future, I plan to give back to my community through my nursing career. I want to provide compassionate care to patients and families during some of the most difficult times in their lives. Because I work in a psychiatric hospital, I have developed a passion for mental health awareness and support. I want to help reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness and encourage people to seek help when they need it. I believe every person deserves to be treated with dignity, kindness, and respect. I also hope to inspire other single parents who may feel discouraged about continuing their education. I want others to know that although the journey may be difficult, it is possible to overcome challenges and achieve your goals. By sharing my story and continuing to work hard, I hope to be a positive example for my children and my community. My educational journey has not been easy, but being a single parent has made me stronger and more determined to succeed. It has taught me the importance of resilience, compassion, and hard work. Through nursing, I hope to make a positive impact by helping others, supporting families, and giving back to the community that has helped shape who I am today.

I was inspired to pursue a career in the medical field because I have always wanted to help people during difficult times in their lives. My experiences both personally and professionally have shown me how important healthcare workers are to patients and families. Working in healthcare since 2005 has allowed me to see the difference that compassion, patience, and quality care can make. Over the years, my passion for helping others continued to grow, and I realized that nursing was the career path I truly wanted to follow. The biggest inspiration in my life has been my father. He had his leg amputated because of complications from diabetes, and watching him go through that experience changed me deeply. I helped care for his wounds and supported him during his recovery. It was hard seeing someone I love in pain, but it also taught me the importance of being there for others when they are struggling. I saw how nurses and healthcare workers not only cared for my father physically, but also gave him emotional support and encouragement. Their kindness and dedication inspired me to become a nurse so I could provide the same care to others. Helping my father after his surgery made me realize that healthcare is more than treating injuries or illnesses. Patients need compassion, understanding, and someone who truly listens to them. That experience gave me a deeper appreciation for nurses and the important role they play in people’s lives. It showed me that even small acts of kindness can make a big difference for someone who is going through a difficult time. Another reason I am passionate about the medical field is because of my current job at a psychiatric hospital. Working with mental health patients has taught me how important it is to treat every person with dignity and respect. Many people struggling with mental health challenges feel misunderstood or alone, and I want to be someone who helps them feel safe, cared for, and supported. My experiences in psychiatric care have strengthened my desire to continue helping others through nursing. As a single mother raising three boys while working full time and attending nursing school full time, I have learned the importance of determination and perseverance. My children are one of my biggest motivations. I want them to see that hard work and dedication can help you achieve your goals no matter how many obstacles you face. I also want to make a positive impact on my community by helping patients and families during some of the hardest moments in their lives. Through my career, I plan to make a difference by providing compassionate and quality care to every patient I meet. I want to advocate for patients, support families, and help people feel heard and respected. I also hope to continue raising awareness about mental health and encouraging people to seek help without fear or shame. My goal is to use my experiences, education, and passion for helping others to make a lasting and positive impact in the medical field.

I decided to pursue a career in nursing because I have always had a passion for helping others and making a difference in people’s lives. Working in the healthcare field since 2005 has shown me how important compassionate care is for patients and their families. Over the years, I have cared for many people during some of the most difficult moments of their lives, and those experiences strengthened my desire to become a nurse. I want to be someone who not only helps patients physically, but also supports them emotionally and mentally. One of the biggest reasons I chose nursing was because of my father. He is my greatest inspiration. My father had his leg amputated due to complications from diabetes, and watching him go through that experience changed my life. I helped care for his wounds and supported him during his recovery. Seeing someone I love struggle with pain, fear, and recovery was very emotional, but it also showed me the true impact healthcare workers can have on patients and families. The nurses who cared for my father treated him with kindness, patience, and respect, and I realized that I wanted to provide that same kind of care to others. Helping my father during his recovery made me realize that nursing is more than just a job. It is a career that allows you to bring comfort, hope, and healing to people when they need it most. I saw how important it was to have someone who listened, encouraged, and truly cared. That experience inspired me to continue my education and pursue nursing as my lifelong career. Another reason I chose nursing is because I want to be a positive example for my children. I am a single mother raising three boys while attending nursing school full time and working full time at a psychiatric hospital. Balancing all of these responsibilities has not been easy, but it has taught me determination, strength, and perseverance. I want my children to see that no matter how difficult life can become, hard work and dedication can help you achieve your goals. Working in a psychiatric hospital has also inspired me to continue in healthcare because I have seen the importance of mental health support. Many patients struggle with feeling alone or misunderstood, and I want to be a nurse who treats every patient with compassion and dignity. I believe nursing is not only about treating illnesses, but also about helping people feel valued and cared for. In the future, I hope to continue making a positive impact by providing quality patient care and supporting families during difficult times. Nursing will allow me to combine my passion for helping others with my personal experiences and dedication to serving my community. I found out about this scholarship on Bold.org.

One of the biggest inspirations in my life has been my father. A specific moment that solidified my decision to pursue a career in nursing was when he had his leg amputated because of complications from diabetes. Watching someone I love go through such a painful and life changing experience was very difficult, but it also helped me realize how important compassionate healthcare workers are to patients and their families. During his recovery, I helped care for his wounds and supported him through the emotional and physical challenges he faced every day. I saw firsthand how much encouragement, patience, and proper care could affect a person’s healing process. There were moments when my father felt discouraged, but I learned that simply being there for him, listening to him, and helping with his care made a difference. That experience showed me that nursing is not just about treating medical problems. It is about caring for people during some of the hardest moments of their lives. My father inspired me because of his strength and determination. Even after losing his leg, he continued to fight through the challenges he faced. Watching him stay strong during such a difficult time motivated me to become stronger as well. It also inspired me to continue my education and pursue nursing so I can help others the same way healthcare workers helped my father. I have worked in the healthcare field since 2005 and currently work full time at a psychiatric hospital while attending nursing school full time. My experiences in healthcare have strengthened my passion for helping others, especially patients who may feel scared, overwhelmed, or alone. Working in mental health has taught me the importance of compassion, patience, and understanding. As a future nurse, I plan to pay my inspiration forward by providing compassionate care to every patient I meet. I want patients and families to feel supported and respected during difficult times. I also want to encourage others who may be struggling and remind them that they are not alone. My goal is to make a positive impact through kindness, dedication, and quality patient care, just as others did for my father and my family during one of the hardest times in our lives.

My name is Iman Belion, and I am currently a full time nursing student while also working full time at a local psychiatric hospital here in Houston Texas. I am also a single mother raising three boys. Balancing school, work, and motherhood has not been easy, but these experiences have shaped me into a determined and hardworking person. They have taught me the value of patience, sacrifice, and perseverance. My journey in healthcare has inspired me to continue pursuing nursing so I can make a positive impact on the lives of others. I have worked in the healthcare field since 2005, and during that time I have learned how important compassion and support are for patients and families. Working in a psychiatric hospital has especially opened my eyes to the importance of mental health care. Many patients feel alone, misunderstood, or judged, and I want to be someone who treats them with kindness and dignity. I believe healthcare is not only about treating illnesses, but also about giving people hope and making them feel cared for during difficult times in their lives. One of the biggest influences in my life has been my father. He is my hero because of the strength and courage he showed after having his leg amputated due to complications from diabetes. Watching him go through that experience changed me deeply. I helped care for his wounds and supported him during his recovery. It was not always easy to see someone I love in pain, but it taught me the importance of being there for others when they need help the most. Through helping my father, I realized that nursing is more than a career to me it is my calling. My father’s experience motivated me to continue my education and pursue my dream of becoming a nurse. I want to provide the same level of care, comfort, and encouragement to patients that I gave to him. I understand how much nurses can impact a patient’s life, not only physically but emotionally as well. A nurse who listens, shows empathy, and truly cares can make a patient feel safe and valued. That is the kind of nurse I want to become. My ambition comes from wanting to create a better future for my children and to show them that hard work and dedication can overcome challenges. As a single mother, there have been many moments when I felt exhausted or overwhelmed, but I continue pushing forward because I want my boys to see the importance of education, responsibility, and determination. I want them to know that no matter how difficult life becomes, they should never give up on their goals. I also hope to make a positive impact in my community by helping people who may not always have access to quality healthcare or emotional support. With my background in psychiatric care, I have developed a passion for advocating for mental health awareness and reducing the stigma around mental illness. I want to use my nursing career to educate, encourage, and care for people from all walks of life. My drive comes from my life experiences, my love for my family, and my desire to help others heal. I have spent many years caring for people, and each experience has strengthened my passion for nursing. I know the road ahead will continue to be challenging, but I am committed to reaching my goals and making a difference. Through nursing, I hope to inspire others, support patients and families during difficult times, and provide compassionate care that leaves a lasting impact.

The nursing industry interests me because it gives me the opportunity to care for people during some of the hardest times in their lives. I have been a CNA since 2005, and over the years I have learned how important compassion, patience, and dedication are in healthcare. Working closely with patients has shown me that nursing is more than just a job. It is a career where you can make a real difference in someone’s life every day. I enjoy helping others feel safe, respected, and cared for, especially when they are struggling physically or emotionally. I currently work full time at a psychiatric hospital, which has helped me develop strong communication and critical thinking skills. Working in mental health has taught me how to remain calm during stressful situations and how to build trust with patients from many different backgrounds. I have learned that listening and understanding can be just as important as medical treatment. This experience has strengthened my desire to continue my education and grow within the nursing field. One of my biggest goals is to become a successful nurse who can provide excellent patient care while continuing to learn and improve professionally. I want to expand my knowledge and skills so I can take on more responsibilities and help even more people. I also hope to inspire my child by showing the importance of hard work, determination, and education. As a single parent, balancing work, family, and personal goals has not always been easy, but it has made me stronger and more motivated to succeed. One personal accomplishment that has helped me pursue my goals is my ability to remain committed to healthcare for many years while supporting my family. I have continued working full time and caring for others despite the challenges that come with being a single parent. Another important experience was helping care for my father after he lost his leg due to diabetic complications. During that time, I helped with wound care and daily support. This experience taught me the importance of patience, empathy, and proper medical care. It also gave me firsthand experience with how serious chronic illnesses can affect both patients and their families. In addition to my professional experience as a CNA, my personal experiences caring for my father have deepened my understanding of healthcare and strengthened my passion for nursing. These experiences have shown me that nursing requires both medical knowledge and compassion. I believe my years of experience, dedication to patient care, and determination to continue growing in the healthcare field will help me achieve my career goals and become an even stronger healthcare professional in the future.

One of the most challenging parts of being both a student and a single parent is trying to balance everything at the same time without feeling like I am falling behind in one area or another. I am currently a single mother of three boys, working in a psychiatric hospital, and continuing my education in nursing. Each part of my life requires time, focus, and energy, but there are only so many hours in a day. Some days I feel like I am being pulled in different directions, and it can be overwhelming trying to give my best at work, stay on top of school assignments, and still be present for my children. Time management is one of my biggest challenges. After working twelve hour long shifts, I still have to come home, take care of my kids, help with homework, and then find time to study. There are nights when I am tired, but I still push myself to finish schoolwork because I know how important my education is for our future. It is not easy, and there are moments when I feel exhausted, but I remind myself why I started this journey in the first place. Another challenge is the emotional side of it. As a parent, I want to always be there for my children and not miss important moments in their lives. At the same time, I am working toward a career that will help provide a better future for them. There are times when I feel guilty for not always being able to give them as much attention as I want to because of school or work responsibilities. However, I also know that I am showing them the importance of hard work, determination, and not giving up when things get difficult. Being a student while raising children has also taught me patience and resilience. I have learned how to keep going even when things are not perfect. I have learned how to stay focused on long term goals instead of short term stress. Most importantly, I have learned that progress is still progress, even if it is slow. This scholarship would make a huge difference in my life. Financial support would help ease some of the stress that comes with balancing school, work, and parenting. It would allow me to focus more on my education and less on how I am going to manage the financial responsibilities that come with it. With this support, I would be able to dedicate more time and energy to becoming a better nursing student, which will ultimately help me become a better nurse in the future. More than anything, this scholarship would help create a better future for my children. My goal is to build a stable and secure life for them and to show them that education can open doors to better opportunities. I want them to see that even when life is difficult, it is still possible to keep moving forward and achieve your goals. In the end, I am working hard not only for myself, but for my children. My experiences as a single parent and a student have made me stronger and more determined. This scholarship would not only support my education, but also help me continue building a better future for my family.

My name is Iman and I’m a Certified Nursing Assistant, and I started my journey in healthcare in 2005 when I completed my training. Since then, I have worked in nursing homes, hospitals, and currently in a psychiatric hospital. Over the years, I have learned that nursing is not just about providing physical care, but also about showing compassion, patience, and understanding to people during some of the hardest moments in their lives. One of the most important experiences in my life was caring for my father after he had his leg amputated due to complications from diabetes. Being his caregiver showed me what it feels like to be on the family side of healthcare. I saw how important it is for patients to feel supported, not only physically but emotionally. That experience made me even more determined to continue in the medical field and grow into a nurse who can provide both skilled care and emotional support to patients and families. Working in different healthcare settings has helped shape who I am today. In nursing homes, I learned patience and the importance of consistency in care. In hospitals, I learned how to stay focused in fast paced and sometimes stressful situations. Now, working in a psychiatric hospital, I have gained a deeper understanding of mental health and how it affects people’s lives. I have learned how important it is to listen without judgment and to treat every patient with respect and dignity, no matter what they are going through. I am currently continuing my education in nursing because I want to expand my knowledge and skills so I can provide a higher level of care. I believe education is a powerful tool that can open doors and allow me to make a greater impact in healthcare. My goal is to become a nurse who not only helps treat illness but also advocates for patients and supports them through their recovery. Outside of my career and education, I am a single mother of three boys. Being their mother is one of the most important parts of my life. They are my motivation to keep going, even when life gets challenging. I want to show them that hard work, education, and determination can help you build a better future. Everything I do is also for them, so they can see the importance of staying focused on goals and never giving up. I plan to make a positive impact on the world by continuing to grow in the nursing field and providing compassionate care to those in need. I want to be someone patients can trust during vulnerable times in their lives. I also hope to inspire others, especially my children, by showing them that you can overcome challenges and still achieve your goals. In the end, I believe my journey in healthcare, my personal experiences, and my dedication to helping others will allow me to make a meaningful difference in the lives of the people I serve. Through education and hard work, I hope to become a nurse who not only treats patients but truly cares for them as people.

I decided to go into nursing over time, not because of one big moment, but because of the experiences I’ve had and the kind of person I am. In 2005, I became a Certified Nursing Assistant, and that’s when I really started to understand what it means to care for people. I’ve worked in both nursing homes and hospitals, and those jobs taught me that being in healthcare is about more than just doing tasks. It’s about being there for people when they feel scared, uncomfortable, or alone. One of the biggest reasons I chose this path was taking care of my father. He had his leg amputated because of complications from diabetes, and I helped care for him during that time. That experience changed me. It was hard to see someone I love go through something so serious, but it also showed me how important it is to have someone by your side who is patient and caring. I learned that healing is not just physical it’s emotional too. Being there for my dad made me want to keep going in the medical field and do even more for others in similar situations. Over the years, I’ve learned a lot from the different places I’ve worked. In nursing homes, I built relationships with patients and got to know them over time, which taught me patience and consistency. In hospitals, I learned how to work in a fast paced environment and be part of a team. Right now, I work at a psychiatric hospital, and this has helped me understand mental health better. It has taught me to listen more, be more understanding, and not judge people based on what they are going through. I’ve realized that sometimes just talking to someone and making them feel heard can make a big difference. I am currently in school to continue my education because I want to become a nurse and do more for my patients. I want to grow, learn more skills, and be able to take on more responsibility. At the same time, I am a single mother of three boys, and they are a huge part of why I keep pushing forward. I want to give them a better future and show them that hard work and determination matter. Even when things get stressful, I remind myself that I’m doing this for them and for myself. Balancing school, work, and being a mom is not easy, but it has made me stronger. It has taught me how to manage my time and stay focused on my goals. There are days when I feel tired, but I don’t give up because I know what I’m working toward. Outside of nursing, what I care about the most is my family. Spending time with my kids is what makes me happiest. Whether we are just at home, laughing, or doing simple things together, those moments mean everything to me. They help me relax and remind me of what’s most important in life. In the end, nursing is important to me because I truly want to help people. My experiences, especially with my father, and the work I’ve done so far have shaped my decision. I want to continue growing in this field and make a difference in people’s lives. At the same time, my life outside of nursing being a mom and spending time with my kids keeps me grounded and gives me the strength to keep going.

Returning to school has been one of the most challenging yet empowering decisions of my life. When I was first enrolled in nursing school, I was full of motivation and hope for my future. However, everything changed when I became pregnant. The physical, emotional, and mental demands of pregnancy made it impossible for me to continue at that time, and I made the difficult decision to step away from my education. Although I knew it was the right choice for my health and my baby, it was still heartbreaking to put my goals on hold. Now, returning to school as a single mother caring for a toddler has presented a completely new set of challenges. Unlike before, I am no longer only responsible for myself. Every decision I make must consider my child’s needs first. Balancing coursework, studying, and assignments with parenting responsibilities can feel overwhelming. There are long nights when I stay up studying after putting my child to bed, and early mornings when I have to get us both ready for the day with little rest. Time management has become essential, yet even with careful planning, unexpected situations like illness or childcare issues can disrupt everything. Financial strain has also been a significant challenge. As a single parent, I carry the full responsibility of providing for my child while trying to invest in my education. Paying for tuition, books, and daily living expenses requires constant sacrifice and careful budgeting. There are moments of doubt when I question whether I can handle everything at once, but I remind myself why I started. Emotionally, this journey has required resilience and determination. There are times when I feel isolated or discouraged, especially when I compare my path to others who may have more support. However, becoming a mother has also strengthened my sense of purpose. My child is my biggest motivation. I am not only pursuing a nursing degree for myself but also to create a stable and fulfilling future for us both. Despite these challenges, I have grown in ways I never expected. I have become more disciplined, focused, and determined. I have learned how to prioritize what truly matters and how to push forward even when things feel difficult. Returning to school has shown me that setbacks do not define my journey they are simply part of it. Ultimately, overcoming these obstacles has made me more confident in my ability to succeed. I am proud of myself for returning to school despite the hardships, and I am committed to finishing what I started. My experiences have shaped me into someone stronger, more compassionate, and better prepared not only for a career in nursing but for life as well.

Pursuing a career in nursing is not only a professional aspiration for me, but a deeply personal commitment shaped by resilience, compassion, and a desire to serve others. The values exemplified by Margaret A. Briller’s dedication to patient care, perseverance, and a commitment to the community closely mirror my own journey and goals. Through both my experiences and ambitions, I strive to embody these qualities while working toward becoming a nurse who makes a meaningful and lasting impact. One of my defining characteristics is empathy, which has been strengthened through both personal and professional experiences. I have witnessed firsthand how compassionate care can transform a patient’s experience during vulnerable moments. Whether assisting a family member through illness or volunteering in healthcare settings, I have learned that nursing extends far beyond clinical skills. It requires emotional intelligence, patience, and the ability to connect with people from all walks of life. Like Margaret A. Briller, I value treating every individual with dignity and kindness, recognizing that healing often begins with feeling seen and understood. In addition to empathy, I bring determination and a strong work ethic to my educational journey. Balancing academic responsibilities with financial pressures has required discipline and persistence. I have worked while attending school, often managing long hours alongside rigorous coursework. These challenges have tested my endurance, but they have also reinforced my commitment to my goals. I understand that becoming a nurse demands not only intellectual ability but also resilience, and I have proven to myself that I can persevere through difficult circumstances. Receiving this scholarship would significantly alleviate the financial burden associated with my education. The cost of tuition, textbooks, and clinical expenses can be overwhelming, especially while trying to maintain a stable income. Financial stress can detract from the time and energy needed to fully engage in coursework and clinical training. This scholarship would allow me to focus more intently on my studies, participate in additional learning opportunities, and reduce the need for excessive work hours. Ultimately, it would bring me closer to achieving my goal of becoming a nurse by providing both financial relief and encouragement to continue striving for excellence. My long-term goal as a nurse is to make a positive impact by improving access to compassionate, high-quality healthcare. I am particularly interested in serving underserved communities, where disparities in healthcare access and outcomes are often most evident. By working in these settings, I hope to advocate for patients who may feel overlooked or marginalized, ensuring that they receive the care and respect they deserve. I also aspire to educate patients about preventive care and healthy living, empowering them to take an active role in their well-being. Beyond direct patient care, I plan to contribute to the nursing profession through continuous learning and leadership. I aim to stay informed about advancements in healthcare and to use evidence-based practices to provide the best possible care. Additionally, I hope to mentor future nursing students, just as I have benefited from the guidance of others. By fostering a supportive and collaborative environment, I can help strengthen the next generation of nurses and promote a culture of compassion and excellence. My educational journey has not been without adversity. Financial instability has been a constant challenge, requiring me to make difficult choices and sacrifices. There have been times when I questioned whether I could continue, especially when faced with competing responsibilities and limited resources. However, these obstacles have also shaped my resilience and determination. Rather than discouraging me, they have reinforced my commitment to my goals and reminded me of the importance of perseverance. In addition to financial challenges, I have navigated personal hardships that have tested my emotional strength. These experiences have deepened my understanding of the struggles that patients and their families face, further motivating me to pursue nursing. I have learned to adapt, remain focused, and seek support when needed and skills that will serve me well in both my education and future career. In conclusion, my personal and professional characteristics align closely with the values exemplified by Margaret A. Briller. Through empathy, determination, and a commitment to service, I am dedicated to becoming a nurse who makes a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Receiving this scholarship would not only ease my financial burden but also empower me to fully pursue my education and career goals. With a nursing degree, I plan to positively impact my community by providing compassionate care, advocating for underserved populations, and contributing to the advancement of the profession. Despite the challenges I have faced, I remain steadfast in my commitment to achieving my dreams and making a difference in the world through nursing.

I was born into a rather large family. I have nine brothers and sisters. When I was fifteen years old I seen my dad struggle working two jobs and attending chiropractic school. This was his dream without a doubt. Through blood sweat and tears he told me that one day he will be a Chiropractor. When he drove to take his board exam four hours away I was there practicing and reading questions on flash cards the whole trip for my father. My dad became a Chiropractic Doctor a month later after he passed the boards on that trip. When I seen the passion my father had of becoming someone that helps people’s body and health that love for nursing was born. I am very close to my father. My father struggled with diabetes all of his adult life. Five years ago my dad stepped on a shard of glass and his foot got infected. I remember going to the Dr visits with him trying to figure out what we could do. The Drs tried everything to keep his infected foot at bay. Maggot therapy, to the hyperbaric chamber. Nothing we tried worked. I remember changing the bandages and packing his wounds to help clear his foot from more infection. I learned from a home health nurse to do wet to dry dressing changes that night. Me being the CNA in the family everyone trusted me that I was able to care for it. Changing my dad’s dressing every other day mentally hurt me. To see a huge hole to the bone on my father’s foot I knew in the back of my head that he would probably loose his foot. But I kept a brave face on every time my father asked the condition of his foot when I changed his bandages. I prayed every night for my dad’s foot to heal. He had to see less patients because he couldn’t bare any weight on his foot. Sadly six months after that the infection spread so bad that he had to have under the knee amputation. My dad became very depressed, after twenty plus years he had to retire and close his practice. I stayed by his side helping him recover. My dad one night said Iman please don’t ever give up on becoming a nurse. I had the dream of becoming a nurse ever since I graduated in 2005 with my CNA degree. He told me that he believed in me and that I did an amazing job with helping him. He said if u could help ur father I know you can help anyone. I told my father that I love to help take care of people and make them feel better. That’s what makes me happy is when I help people. Currently I am a single mother of a beautiful five year old and I work full time in a psychiatric hospital.. I also am attending Galen College of Nursing working toward my BSN degree. I love spending time with my son. His father is absent in his life so I’m his number one. To see him grow and his love for school excites me. We take vacations together go to parks and go to beaches here in Houston. I thank my father for giving me and showing me the passion to give love, just from the kindness of your heart. Working in the health field you have to have a heart. After I graduated from my CNA degree I worked ten years in nursing homes and taking care of the elderly. Just to sit there and talk to them and make them feel important does wonders to someone’s health. If I get this scholarship it would help me achieve my goals! I promised my father I won’t ever give up on my dream! Thank you for taking the time to read my essay.

My name is Iman and I grew up in Florida. I graduated in 2005 with my Certified Nursing Assistant certificate. After I graduated with it I worked in nursing homes and hospitals. I finally met the man of my life; well I thought I did and got married in 2012. After my marriage I noticed that my husband was becoming very critical about me going to back to school to finish my nursing degree. He would say that I'm too stupid and I wouldn’t be able to finish it. I felt like on the other hand that I couldn’t just settle as a CNA when I have such a love for the health field. I had a GPA of 3.7 when i fished my CNA. A year later still working as a CNA I gave birth to my oldest son. I remember working pregnant on an over night shift with a total of 24 patients I had to myself. My marriage was not in a good plaice at this time. My husband started to become verbally abusive to me. I gained probably a hundred pounds and he would constantly talk about my appearance. We went to counseling thinking that will help but it didn’t. Shorty a year later I gave birth to my second son. My parents were very disappointed in me that I would have another baby so soon. And they would constantly lecture that I should have been finished school now. But me having two young boys I couldn’t concentrate on school and take care of them. Four years later my oldest son was four and my youngest was two our marriage took a drastic turn. In the year 2018 we got into a heated argument because my neighbor told me that he had a girl come over to our house while I was working overnights in the nursing home. I confronted him about this and and the next moment he was on top of me choking me. I was grasping for air, and grabbing everything i could reach. I knew he was trying to kill me, and I was complete shocked. He just would not let go. My ex husband was a college football player weighing 250 pounds standing at 6’2. My neighbors heard the screaming and started to bang on the door and they called the police. The police came and questioned me about what happened. I knew right then that was my chance to leave this marriage so I can have a better life for myself and my children. No more physical abuse, no more mental abuse. No more being called racial slurs. He was arrested and was sent to prison. I filed divorce papers and i was granted sole custody of my kids.I love myself too much to ever be with a person that would treat me like that. I promised myself when I was in that marriage I was going to get away from him so I can finish school like I always planned and raise my kids in a loving environment. Seven years later I currently live near family in Texas, I work full time as a mental health tech at a psychiatric hospital. Presently I got accepted and Im taking classes at Galen college of Nursing towards my BSN degree. If I didn’t have my children I wouldn’t have the strong desire to continue to school. If I didn’t experience what I experienced in my life I wouldn’t be here today. Becoming a nurse was my dream from the beginning. And that is my Goal that i will conquer one day!

My name is Iman and I grew up in Florida. I graduated in 2005 with my Certified Nursing Assistant certificate. After I graduated with it I worked in nursing homes and hospitals. I finally met the man of my life; well I thought I did and got married in 2012. After my marriage I noticed that my husband was becoming very critical about me going to back to school to finish my nursing degree. He would say that I'm too stupid and I wouldn’t be able to finish it. I felt like on the other hand that I couldn’t just settle as a CNA when I have such a love for the health field. I had a GPA of 3.7 when i fished my CNA. A year later still working as a CNA I gave birth to my oldest son. I remember working pregnant on an over night shift with a total of 24 patients I had to myself. My marriage was not in a good plaice at this time. My husband started to become verbally abusive to me. I gained probably a hundred pounds and he would constantly talk about my appearance. We went to counseling thinking that will help but it didn’t. Shorty a year later I gave birth to my second son. My parents were very disappointed in me that I would have another baby so soon. And they would constantly lecture that I should have been finished school now. But me having two young boys I couldn’t concentrate on school and take care of them. Four years later my oldest son was four and my youngest was two our marriage took a drastic turn. In the year 2018 we got into a heated argument because my neighbor told me that he had a girl come over to our house while I was working overnights in the nursing home. I confronted him about this and and the next moment he was on top of me choking me. I was grasping for air, and grabbing everything i could reach. I knew he was trying to kill me, and I was complete shocked. He just would not let go. My ex husband was a college football player weighing 250 pounds standing at 6’2. My neighbors heard the screaming and started to bang on the door and they called the police. The police came and questioned me about what happened. I knew right then that was my chance to leave this marriage so I can have a better life for myself and my children. No more physical abuse, no more mental abuse. No more being called racial slurs. He was arrested and was sent to prison. I filed divorce papers and i was granted sole custody of my kids.I love myself too much to ever be with a person that would treat me like that. I promised myself when I was in that marriage I was going to get away from him so I can finish school like I always planned and raise my kids in a loving environment. Seven years later I currently live near family in Texas, I work full time as a mental health tech at a psychiatric hospital. Presently I got accepted and Im taking classes at Galen college of Nursing towards my BSN degree. If I didn’t have my children I wouldn’t have the strong desire to continue to school. If I didn’t experience what I experienced in my life I wouldn’t be here today. Becoming a nurse was my dream from the beginning. And that is my Goal that i will conquer one day!

My name is Iman and I grew up in Florida. I graduated in 2005 with my Certified Nursing Assistant certificate. After I graduated with it I worked in nursing homes and hospitals. I finally met the man of my life; well I thought I did and got married in 2012. After my marriage I noticed that my husband was becoming very critical about me going to back to school to finish my nursing degree. He would say that I'm too stupid and I wouldn’t be able to finish it. I felt like on the other hand that I couldn’t just settle as a CNA when I have such a love for the health field. I had a GPA of 3.7 when i fished my CNA. A year later still working as a CNA I gave birth to my oldest son. I remember working pregnant on an over night shift with a total of 24 patients I had to myself. My marriage was not in a good plaice at this time. My husband started to become verbally abusive to me. I gained probably a hundred pounds and he would constantly talk about my appearance. We went to counseling thinking that will help but it didn’t. Shorty a year later I gave birth to my second son. My parents were very disappointed in me that I would have another baby so soon. And they would constantly lecture that I should have been finished school now. But me having two young boys I couldn’t concentrate on school and take care of them. Four years later my oldest son was four and my youngest was two our marriage took a drastic turn. In the year 2018 we got into a heated argument because my neighbor told me that he had a girl come over to our house while I was working overnights in the nursing home. I confronted him about this and and the next moment he was on top of me choking me. I was grasping for air, and grabbing everything i could reach. I knew he was trying to kill me, and I was complete shocked. He just would not let go. My ex husband was a college football player weighing 250 pounds standing at 6’2. My neighbors heard the screaming and started to bang on the door and they called the police. The police came and questioned me about what happened. I knew right then that was my chance to leave this marriage so I can have a better life for myself and my children. No more physical abuse, no more mental abuse. No more being called racial slurs. He was arrested and was sent to prison. I filed divorce papers and i was granted sole custody of my kids.I love myself too much to ever be with a person that would treat me like that. I promised myself when I was in that marriage I was going to get away from him so I can finish school like I always planned and raise my kids in a loving environment. Seven years later I currently live near family in Texas, I work full time as a mental health tech at a psychiatric hospital. Presently I got accepted and Im taking classes at Galen college of Nursing towards my BSN degree. If I didn’t have my children I wouldn’t have the strong desire to continue to school. If I didn’t experience what I experienced in my life I wouldn’t be here today. Becoming a nurse was my dream from the beginning. And that is my Goal that i will conquer one day!