Being the first in my family to obtain a college degree is a meaningful milestone, not just for me but for my entire family. My parents immigrated to the United States from Korea in 1977, arriving with little in the way of material possessions but a clear vision of a better future for their children. They worked tirelessly, setting aside their own dreams to provide for me and my siblings, believing that education could open doors they never had the chance to walk through. For me, earning this degree represents not only personal achievement but also a fulfillment of their hopes and sacrifices. It’s a way of honoring the struggles they endured so that I could reach higher, bridging generations and realizing a legacy of resilience and growth. I have chosen to pursue a degree in nursing as a second career, a decision that has deep personal roots. Earlier this year, I was diagnosed with breast cancer, an experience that drastically changed how I see myself and my role in the world. Facing a health crisis firsthand gave me a newfound empathy and an understanding of the vulnerability that patients feel. It reinforced for me the importance of having compassionate, skilled professionals who truly care about their patients. I want to be one of those professionals. The experiences I’ve had as a patient, navigating both the physical and emotional challenges of illness, have shown me how powerful a nurse’s role can be. I’m drawn to geriatrics and oncology because I believe these areas require special sensitivity and understanding, and I want to be there for others in the ways that nurses were there for me during my own journey. Looking ahead, my long-term goal is simple: I want to become the best nurse I can be. For me, that means building a foundation of knowledge and clinical skill, developing strong, compassionate relationships with patients, and continually learning throughout my career. I want to provide support that goes beyond physical care, helping patients and their families feel seen and understood during some of their most challenging times. I know nursing isn’t easy, and I anticipate there will be difficult days and times when the work feels heavy. Yet, this is a path I feel called to, a way to use my own experiences to give back and make a positive impact. This degree is not just a personal goal; it’s a way of honoring my family’s sacrifices and embracing the purpose I feel in my life. I’m committed to learning, growing, and ultimately serving others in a way that reflects the values my parents instilled in me. In the end, my hope is that my work will be a testament to their belief in me and a legacy that I, in turn, can pass down to others.

When I read this prompt, I wondered if free expression is realistic within the medical field. How it can be addressed in healthcare feels like a far-off concept because healthcare feels so structured and hierarchical. But then, I thought about how free expression is an everyday human right—people express their unique personalities and views on life through food, clothing, and conversations. We need new ideas, collaborative conversations, and the ability to better understand opposing sides to drive our society forward. This includes free expression within the workforce, schools, government policies, and healthcare. Free expression in healthcare is critical because it can ultimately benefit the patient—a role I know way too much about after my breast cancer diagnosis this year. Up until my diagnosis, I had only ever entered a hospital for yearly checkups. I've been fortunate to view the healthcare system from both sides—as a patient and future nurse. Here are my thoughts on how free expression helps the industry but more importantly, the patient. 1. Open communication: Being in the workforce for 15 years has taught me that there's no such thing as oversharing or over-communicating. Doctors, nurses, and administrators should share their concerns, ideas, and observations openly with their colleagues. The other important component is for the hospital to foster a safe environment for workers to openly communicate. 2. Constructive criticism: Providing feedback can lead to improvements in patient care and team dynamics but I also believe there needs to be training around receiving feedback. Our culture has a negative stigma about the word "feedback," when in reality, it should be considered a gift. In healthcare, having a protocol and structure for this flow of giving and receiving criticism can spark more difficult conversations with ease. I believe uncomfortable conversations drive change. 3. Patient education: When I was diagnosed with cancer, I had a wonderful team of nurses and nurse practitioners to support me. While I was initially advised to avoid online sources like "Dr. Google" and "Dr. AI," I realized that my nurses were there to provide me with evidence-based information and personalized guidance. Their role as educators aligned with informed consent, empowering me to make informed decisions about my treatment. This experience highlighted the importance of open communication and fostering free expression. By creating a safe place for open dialogue, transparency, and education, we can create a healthcare environment that is more innovative, equitable, and responsive to the needs of patients.

Life's Second Chances and Second Career in STEM This year, a breast cancer diagnosis marked a turning point in my life. This experience changed everything—suddenly, my thoughts were consumed by clichés. Life is precious and short, so how do I want to live my life? More than ever, I felt my life was finite and time was ticking. I imagined myself as an old lady looking back on my career in marketing and tech. I thought about the countless days I left the office feeling unsatisfied and empty, marketing a product to a nameless, faceless customer. Was I truly feeling good about my contributions to making this a better world? Before cancer, I frequently thought about changing careers to something that felt more meaningful, but I wasn’t sure what I wanted to pursue or how I could pivot financially to make it work. I am single and have always been fiercely independent. However, juggling school while paying a mortgage and my bills with one income felt impossible. Mostly, I knew I was letting my fear dictate all the reasons why it would never work. After my cancer diagnosis, I was fortunate to be able to go on short-term disability from work so I could figure out treatment options, go through multiple surgeries, and recover physically and mentally. During this time away from the office, I kept returning to the clichés and the kind of work I wanted to pursue. I questioned the legacy I wanted to leave behind and what mattered most. I thought about my situation and the uncertainty that comes with illness. Then, I thought about the amazing care and support from my doctors and nurses, and suddenly, a lightbulb went off. I realized I wanted to help people with the same care and compassion I received. I decided to pursue nursing and a career in STEM. I am currently pursuing prerequisite coursework at the Community College of Denver and Arapahoe Community College and laying the foundation for upcoming nursing school entrance exams and applications. As I navigate this transition and nursing school ahead, I face significant financial challenges. Beyond short-term disability, I've applied for student loans to manage the financial strain of paying bills and being a full-time student. I also plan to work part-time while in school as a Certified Nursing Assistant. I want to gain hands-on skills in general healthcare while earning some money to pay for my bills. It won't cover everything, but I see it as an opportunity to "learn and earn." Despite these challenges, my experience with cancer has shown me that I am strong and resourceful enough to make this work. I am leaning into this hurdle and not letting anything stand in the way of my commitment to pursuing a new path in STEM. The Eric W. Larson Memorial STEM Scholarship would help me achieve my goal of becoming a nurse. This financial support would alleviate some of life's pressures, allowing me to focus on my studies and clinical experiences—critical components for providing compassionate, high-quality care. As a patient (and as a person who has always been healthy), I felt a newfound empathy for others battling illnesses. I witnessed the critical role nurses play in providing comfort, support, and medical expertise. My diagnosis was overwhelming, and I don't know how I would've made it through my treatments and deciphering pathology reports without my breast care navigator nurse and my oncology nurse practitioner. In my future nursing career, I hope to specialize in oncology. I believe my background as a double mastectomy cancer survivor will allow me to make a more profound impact for others facing cancer. I want to support patients through their health challenges with the same compassion extended to me. I am also committed to using my journey to advocate for early detection and proactive health measures, helping others understand the importance of self-care and regular screenings. The pursuit of a nursing degree represents a transformative chapter in my life. It is an opportunity to turn personal adversity into something good for others. This scholarship will enable me to focus on my education and clinical training, helping me to contribute meaningfully to my community. Ultimately, pursuing a career in STEM represents a transformative chapter in my life. It is an opportunity to channel my adversity into a force for positive change. By becoming a nurse, I aim to positively impact my community and contribute meaningfully to the healthcare field. This scholarship would support my educational journey and help me build a legacy of care and empathy, turning my experience into something positive for others. I am grateful for the opportunity to pursue this path in STEM and remain committed to giving back to my community. I want to honor my experience as a patient and those who supported me by being the best nurse I can be.

This year, a breast cancer diagnosis marked a turning point in my life. This experience changed everything—I was living the cliche that life IS truly precious and short. I began questioning the legacy I wanted to leave in this world. I imagined an older version of me on my deathbed, wondering how I'd feel if I continued working in tech. Although I'm proud of my two careers—one as a grade school teacher and another as a marketing professional and writer in Silicon Valley—something was always missing. While I received treatment and had time away from the office, I felt a shift happening. I realized I wanted to help people with the same level of care and compassion I received from my doctors and nurses. Therefore, I decided to pursue nursing. During the tests, surgeries, and cancer treatment, I felt a newfound empathy for others battling illness and witnessed firsthand the invaluable role nurses play in providing comfort, support, and medical expertise. My personal journey with cancer has highlighted the importance of resilience, self-care, and advocacy, values that I am eager to bring into my nursing practice. Currently, I am pursuing prerequisite coursework at the Community College of Denver and Arapahoe Community College, laying the groundwork for my nursing education. As a future nurse, I am particularly drawn to oncology. I aim to leverage my personal experience to provide empathetic care to cancer patients, combining clinical expertise with a genuine understanding of their needs. I believe that my background will allow me to make a significant impact, supporting patients through their health challenges with the same compassion that was extended to me. Surviving breast cancer and undergoing a double mastectomy has reinforced the importance of resilience and hope, and I am committed to using my journey to advocate for early detection and proactive health measures. I want to be a source of awareness and encouragement, helping others recognize the value of self-care and regular screenings. The pursuit of a nursing degree represents a transformative chapter in my life. It is an opportunity to turn personal adversity into something good for others. This scholarship will enable me to focus on my education and clinical training, helping me to contribute meaningfully to my community. The Debra S. Jackson New Horizons Scholarship would help me achieve my dream of becoming a nurse. As an older student, financial burdens can be overwhelming, especially since I will attend nursing school full-time. I will face the challenge of balancing my studies with the financial responsibilities of being a single homeowner and paying my mortgage and other bills on time. This scholarship would alleviate some pressure, allowing me to focus on my studies and clinical experiences, which are crucial for providing compassionate, high-quality care to patients. I am grateful for having breast cancer. I joke to friends and family that this was the best and worst year of my life! But in all seriousness, I am choosing to see the light, and filled with gratitude to have this opportunity to pursue a career in nursing. I aim to be the best nurse I can be to give back to my community and feel good about my legacy.

My journey into the world of healthcare began unexpectedly. After years of working in the tech scene of Silicon Valley, where innovation and disruption were the norm, I found myself drawn to a different kind of challenge within the healthcare sector. I want to make a difference in people's lives, and my deep-seated belief in the transformative power of technology has led me to pursue a degree in nursing. My time in the tech industry gave me a unique perspective on the intersection of healthcare and technology. I learned how advancements in fields like artificial intelligence, data analytics, and wearable devices were revolutionizing how we diagnose, treat, and prevent diseases. The potential to leverage these tools to improve patient outcomes and enhance the overall healthcare experience was both exciting and inspiring. One of the most significant ways technology is impacting healthcare is through the development of personalized medicine. By analyzing an individual's genetic makeup and medical history, healthcare providers can tailor treatments to their specific needs. This approach has the potential to improve treatment outcomes and reduce adverse side effects. Additionally, wearable devices and mobile health apps are empowering patients to take a more active role in their own care by tracking vital signs, monitoring symptoms, and connecting with healthcare providers remotely. As a future nurse, I am eager to use the technology that will support my daily tasks to improve patient care. I envision a future where nurses are equipped with advanced tools and data-driven insights to make more informed decisions and provide more personalized care. For example, wearable devices could be used to monitor patients' vital signs in real-time, allowing nurses to intervene early if they detect any abnormalities. Additionally, electronic health records can streamline the documentation process and reduce the risk of medical errors. Beyond the clinical setting, technology also plays a crucial role in addressing broader healthcare challenges. For instance, telemedicine can improve access to care in rural or underserved areas, while artificial intelligence can be used to develop new drug treatments and medical devices. By embracing these technological advancements, we can create a healthcare system that is more efficient, effective, and equitable for all. While technology offers immense potential, it is important to recognize its limitations. It is essential to ensure that technology is used ethically and responsibly and that it does not replace the human touch of healthcare professionals. As a nurse, I believe that my role will be to complement technology by providing compassionate care, building relationships with patients, and advocating for their needs. My passion for healthcare and technology has led me on a journey that combines the best of both worlds. As an underrepresented minority, I also hope to contribute to a future where technology is used to improve the lives of patients and create a more equitable healthcare system.

My journey toward a nursing career was an unexpected decision I made this year due to a breast cancer diagnosis. Cancer has transformed my life, how I want to live it, and the legacy I want to leave behind. I realized I had a profound desire to help others navigate their own health challenges. The unwavering care and expertise of my medical team inspired me to take the plunge into nursing. As a patient, I felt a deep empathy for those facing illness. I witnessed firsthand the invaluable role nurses played in providing comfort, support, and medical expertise. During my treatment, I got to know my nurses in oncology and at the breast center. I talked to them on the phone regularly to go over test results, get health advice, and schedule surgeries. No matter which nurse it was, my concerns were heard and I felt supported. I leaned on them to ask questions, and sometimes, cry. Their dedication and compassion were instrumental in my recovery, and I am determined to help others in the way I was cared for. Currently, I am pursuing prerequisite coursework at Community College of Denver and Arapahoe Community College, laying the foundation for my nursing education. This scholarship would be instrumental in helping me achieve my dream of becoming a nurse. As a second-career student, financial burdens can be overwhelming, especially since I will be a full-time student. I am single and fully support myself. This scholarship would alleviate some of that pressure, allowing me to focus on my studies and clinical experiences. It would directly contribute to my ability to provide compassionate, high-quality care to patients. While balancing studies with the responsibilities of paying a mortgage and bills, I am determined and motivated. I aspire to create a fulfilling career centered on patient care, empowering individuals to overcome adversity and achieve optimal health outcomes. As a future nurse, I envision myself as an advocate for my patients. I am particularly drawn to the field of oncology, where I can leverage my personal experience to provide empathetic care to those battling cancer. I believe that by combining clinical expertise with a genuine understanding of patients' needs, I can make a significant impact on their lives. Breast health, for me, is no longer just about physical well-being; it is intertwined with my emotional and mental health. The journey has taught me the value of early detection, the importance of understanding my body, and the need to be vigilant about any changes. It has also highlighted the significance of self-care and self-advocacy in the face of such a diagnosis. The pursuit of a nursing degree represents a transformative chapter in my life. It is an opportunity to turn personal adversity into a force for positive change. I am eager to contribute my skills and personal experience to the healthcare field, and I'm grateful to be healthy enough to do it. Ultimately, my goal is to become a skilled and compassionate nurse who makes a positive difference in the lives of others. I am committed to lifelong learning and professional growth, and I believe that a strong educational foundation will enable me to achieve my aspirations.

My world shifted dramatically this year when I received a breast cancer diagnosis. What began as a personal health crisis became a profound inspiration. The unwavering care and expertise of my medical team ignited a passion within me to dedicate my life to helping others. I am determined to transform this personal experience into a meaningful career as a nurse. This scholarship would be instrumental in helping me achieve my dream of becoming a nurse. As a second-career student, financial burdens can be overwhelming, especially since I will be a full-time student. I am single and fully support myself. This scholarship would alleviate some of that pressure, allowing me to focus on my studies and clinical experiences. It would directly contribute to my ability to provide compassionate, high-quality care to patients. I aspire to be a nurse who not only treats illnesses but also empowers patients. By obtaining my nursing degree, I hope to leave a lasting impact on the world, just as my medical team did for me. This scholarship would be the first wave in propelling me towards that goal. === The “Annie Pringle Memorial Scholarship” would be instrumental in helping me achieve my dream of becoming a nurse. As a second-career student, financial burdens can be overwhelming, especially since I will be a full-time student. I am single and fully support myself. This scholarship would alleviate some of that pressure, allowing me to focus on my studies and clinical experiences. It would directly contribute to my ability to provide compassionate, high-quality care to patients. My journey toward a nursing career was an unexpected decision I made this year due to a breast cancer diagnosis. Cancer has transformed my life, how I want to live it, and the legacy I want to leave behind. I realized I had a profound desire to help others navigate their own health challenges. The unwavering care and expertise of my medical team inspired me to take the plunge into nursing. As a patient, I felt a deep empathy for those facing illness. I witnessed firsthand the invaluable role nurses played in providing comfort, support, and medical expertise. During my treatment, I got to know my nurses in oncology and at the breast center. I talked to them on the phone regularly to go over test results, get health advice, and schedule surgeries. No matter which nurse it was, my concerns were heard and I felt supported. I leaned on them to ask questions, and sometimes, cry. Their dedication and compassion were instrumental in my recovery, and I am determined to help others in the way I was cared for. Currently, I am pursuing prerequisite coursework at Community College of Denver and Arapahoe Community College, laying the foundation for my nursing education. While balancing studies with the responsibilities of paying a mortgage and bills as a single woman, I am determined and motivated. I aspire to create a fulfilling career centered on patient care, empowering individuals to overcome adversity and achieve optimal health outcomes. As a future nurse, I envision myself as an advocate for my patients. I am particularly drawn to the field of oncology, where I can leverage my personal experience to provide empathetic care to those battling cancer. I believe that by combining clinical expertise with a genuine understanding of patients' needs, I can make a significant impact on their lives. Breast health, for me, is no longer just about physical well-being; it is intertwined with my emotional and mental health. The journey has taught me the value of early detection, the importance of understanding my body, and the need to be vigilant about any changes. It has also highlighted the significance of self-care and self-advocacy in the face of such a diagnosis. Surviving breast cancer and going through a double mastectomy has reinforced the importance of resilience, strength, and hope. My breasts were a part of my identity, and losing them has been challenging. However, this experience has also been empowering, teaching me that my worth and femininity are not defined by any single part of my body. Moving forward, breast health remains a priority, not just for me but also as a message to others. I want to be a source of awareness and encouragement, helping others recognize the importance of regular screenings and taking proactive steps to ensure their health. This journey has shaped who I am today, and I am committed to honoring it by prioritizing my overall well-being. The pursuit of a nursing degree represents a transformative chapter in my life. It is an opportunity to turn personal adversity into a force for positive change. I am eager to contribute my skills and personal experience to the healthcare field, and I'm grateful to be healthy enough to do it. Ultimately, my goal is to become a skilled and compassionate nurse who makes a positive difference in the lives of others. I am committed to lifelong learning and professional growth, and I believe that a strong educational foundation will enable me to achieve my aspirations.

My world shifted dramatically this year when I was diagnosed with stage one breast cancer. The diagnosis forced me to confront my mortality in a way I had never done before. Life suddenly felt short, and I realized I wanted to spend whatever time I had left making a meaningful impact. I decided that nursing would be my third and final career, where I could channel my experiences as a patient into helping others navigate their health challenges. Going through a double mastectomy was physically and emotionally challenging, yet empowering. It taught me that a single body part does not define my worth. The journey to become cancer-free highlighted the importance of resilience, strength, and hope—qualities I seek to embody in my personal and professional life. Before my diagnosis, I worked in tech as a marketing professional and writer, but I never felt a deep sense of purpose in that role. After this diagnosis, I am returning to school and pursuing nursing. I want to leave a legacy and help others in the way I was helped. The care and expertise of my medical team during my treatment were instrumental in my recovery. I realized I wanted to provide the same level of comfort, support, and medical expertise to others. My nurses, especially those in oncology, became my lifeline. Whether it was discussing test results, scheduling surgeries, or simply offering a listening ear, they were there for me every step of the way. Their dedication inspired me to pursue nursing, where I hope to make a similar impact on the lives of my future patients. Currently, I am pursuing prerequisite coursework at Community College of Denver and Arapahoe Community College, laying the foundation for my nursing education. This path is not without its challenges—balancing studies with the responsibilities of paying a mortgage and bills as a single woman is daunting. However, I am determined and motivated by the desire to turn my personal adversity into a force for positive change. I see my future in nursing as an opportunity to create a fulfilling career centered on patient care, empowering individuals to overcome adversity and achieve optimal health outcomes. Breast health has become more than just a physical concern for me; it is intertwined with my emotional and mental well-being. Surviving breast cancer has taught me the value of early detection, the importance of understanding my body, and the need to be vigilant about any changes. It has also highlighted the significance of self-care and self-advocacy. I want to be a source of awareness and encouragement, helping others recognize the importance of regular screenings and taking proactive steps to ensure their health. This scholarship would be instrumental in helping me achieve that goal. As a second-career student, financial burdens can be overwhelming, especially since I will be a full-time student. This scholarship would alleviate some of that pressure, allowing me to focus on my studies and clinical experiences. It would directly contribute to my ability to provide compassionate, high-quality care to patients, just as my medical team did for me. My experience with breast cancer has fundamentally changed the way I look at life. It has clarified my goals, strengthened my resolve, and given me a renewed sense of purpose. I am eager to contribute my skills and personal experience to the healthcare field, and I’m grateful to be healthy enough to do it. Through nursing, I hope to leave a legacy of care, empathy, and resilience—a legacy that honors the journey I have been through and helps others on their own paths to healing.

The journey that leads us to our life's calling often takes unexpected turns, and for me, it began with a personal battle that redefined my perspective on life and care. Earlier this year, I was diagnosed with invasive breast cancer, a diagnosis that shook the very foundations of my world. However, through this challenging time, I found not only strength within myself but also a new sense of purpose. The exceptional care I received from my medical team was a revelation. It wasn't just the treatments and the procedures, but the compassion, dedication, and support that they extended to me that made a profound impact. It was in those moments of vulnerability and healing that I realized a career in nursing was calling me. More specifically, I felt a deep-seated desire to dedicate my life to caring for the elderly population, a group that, like my parents, deserves the utmost dignity, respect, and quality of life in their golden years. My parents, both in their eighties, have always been pillars of strength in my life. However, as they have aged, I have witnessed firsthand the challenges and complexities that come with aging. My father, at 84, has been battling diabetes for several years. His condition requires constant monitoring, medication, and lifestyle adjustments, all of which have become more demanding as he has grown older. My mother, who has always been his partner in life, has now transitioned into the role of his caregiver. Just three months ago, she suffered a broken hip while trying to catch my father as he was falling. This incident was a stark reminder of the fragility that comes with age and the importance of having skilled, compassionate care available. Watching my mother take on the responsibilities of caregiving, despite her own health challenges, has been both inspiring and heartbreaking. It has underscored the need for trained professionals who not only understand the medical aspects of elderly care but also approach it with empathy and patience. My mother’s strength and determination in caring for my father have deepened my commitment to pursuing a career in nursing, specifically in elderly care. I want to be a nurse who can make a difference in the lives of people like my parents, who often face their twilight years with a mix of resilience and vulnerability. The elderly population is growing rapidly, and with it, the need for specialized care that addresses not just the physical, but also the emotional and psychological needs of aging individuals. Many elderly people face chronic illnesses, mobility issues, and cognitive decline, which can significantly affect their quality of life. Yet, with the right care and support, they can maintain a sense of independence, dignity, and well-being. My experiences have taught me that elderly care is not just about managing health conditions but also about enhancing the overall quality of life. It is about providing care that respects the individuality of each person, acknowledges their life experiences, and supports them in leading fulfilling lives even in their later years. In my pursuit of a nursing career, I am particularly drawn to geriatrics because it allows me to combine my passion for medicine with my desire to make a tangible difference in the lives of the elderly. I want to be a source of comfort and support for families who, like mine, are navigating the complexities of aging. I want to use my skills to ensure that elderly individuals receive the best possible care, whether they are managing chronic conditions, recovering from surgery, or simply needing assistance with daily activities. My goal is to empower them to live as independently and comfortably as possible, while also providing their families with the peace of mind that comes from knowing their loved ones are in good hands. Receiving a scholarship to pursue nursing would be a pivotal step in achieving this goal. It would allow me to gain the education and training necessary to excel in this field and to provide the highest standard of care to my future patients. I am committed to learning not only the technical skills required for nursing but also the compassionate communication and ethical decision-making that are so crucial in elderly care. I believe that nursing is more than a profession; it is a vocation that requires a deep commitment to the well-being of others, especially those who are most vulnerable. My experience with breast cancer has given me a unique perspective on what it means to be a patient and how important it is to feel cared for and understood. It has also fueled my determination to be there for others in their times of need, just as my medical team was there for me. Breast health, for me, is no longer just about physical well-being; it is intertwined with my emotional and mental health. The journey has taught me the value of early detection, the importance of understanding my body, and the need to be vigilant about any changes. It has also highlighted the significance of self-care and self-advocacy in the face of such a diagnosis. Surviving breast cancer and going through a double mastectomy have reinforced the importance of resilience, strength, and hope. My breasts were a part of my identity, and losing them has been challenging. Moving forward, breast health remains a priority, not just for me but also as a message to others. I want to be a source of awareness and encouragement, helping others recognize the importance of regular screenings and taking proactive steps to ensure their health. This journey has shaped who I am today, and I am committed to honoring it by prioritizing my overall well-being. I am eager to bring this empathy and dedication to my work as a nurse, particularly in the field of elderly care. In conclusion, my desire to pursue a career in nursing, with a focus on elderly care, is deeply personal and driven by my own experiences and the needs of my aging parents. I am passionate about making a difference in the lives of the elderly, ensuring they receive the care and respect they deserve. With the support of this scholarship, I am confident that I can achieve my goal of becoming a nurse who not only treats illnesses but also touches lives, bringing comfort, dignity, and quality care to those who need it most.

The “Annie Pringle Memorial Scholarship” would be instrumental in helping me achieve my dream of becoming a nurse. As a second-career student, financial burdens can be overwhelming, especially since I will be a full-time student. I am single and fully support myself. This scholarship would alleviate some of that pressure, allowing me to focus on my studies and clinical experiences. It would directly contribute to my ability to provide compassionate, high-quality care to patients. My journey toward a nursing career was an unexpected decision I made this year due to a breast cancer diagnosis. Cancer has transformed my life, how I want to live it, and the legacy I want to leave behind. I realized I had a profound desire to help others navigate their own health challenges. The unwavering care and expertise of my medical team inspired me to take the plunge into nursing. As a patient, I felt a deep empathy for those facing illness. I witnessed firsthand the invaluable role nurses played in providing comfort, support, and medical expertise. During my treatment, I got to know my nurses in oncology and at the breast center. I talked to them on the phone regularly to go over test results, get health advice, and schedule surgeries. No matter which nurse it was, my concerns were heard and I felt supported. I leaned on them to ask questions, and sometimes, cry. Their dedication and compassion were instrumental in my recovery, and I am determined to help others in the way I was cared for. Currently, I am pursuing prerequisite coursework at Community College of Denver and Arapahoe Community College, laying the foundation for my nursing education. While balancing studies with the responsibilities of paying a mortgage and bills as a single woman, I am determined and motivated. I aspire to create a fulfilling career centered on patient care, empowering individuals to overcome adversity and achieve optimal health outcomes. As a future nurse, I envision myself as an advocate for my patients. I am particularly drawn to the field of oncology, where I can leverage my personal experience to provide empathetic care to those battling cancer. I believe that by combining clinical expertise with a genuine understanding of patients' needs, I can make a significant impact on their lives. Breast health, for me, is no longer just about physical well-being; it is intertwined with my emotional and mental health. The journey has taught me the value of early detection, the importance of understanding my body, and the need to be vigilant about any changes. It has also highlighted the significance of self-care and self-advocacy in the face of such a diagnosis. Surviving breast cancer and going through a double mastectomy has reinforced the importance of resilience, strength, and hope. My breasts were a part of my identity, and losing them has been challenging. However, this experience has also been empowering, teaching me that my worth and femininity are not defined by any single part of my body. Moving forward, breast health remains a priority, not just for me but also as a message to others. I want to be a source of awareness and encouragement, helping others recognize the importance of regular screenings and taking proactive steps to ensure their health. This journey has shaped who I am today, and I am committed to honoring it by prioritizing my overall well-being. The pursuit of a nursing degree represents a transformative chapter in my life. It is an opportunity to turn personal adversity into a force for positive change. I am eager to contribute my skills and personal experience to the healthcare field, and I'm grateful to be healthy enough to do it. Ultimately, my goal is to become a skilled and compassionate nurse who makes a positive difference in the lives of others. I am committed to lifelong learning and professional growth, and I believe that a strong educational foundation will enable me to achieve my aspirations.

My journey toward a nursing career was an unexpected decision I made this year due to a breast cancer diagnosis. Cancer has transformed my life, how I want to live it, and the legacy I want to leave behind. I realized I had a profound desire to help others navigate their own health challenges. The unwavering care and expertise of my medical team inspired me to take the plunge into nursing. As a patient, I felt a deep empathy for those facing illness. I witnessed firsthand the invaluable role nurses played in providing comfort, support, and medical expertise. During my treatment, I got to know my nurses in oncology and at the breast center. I talked to them on the phone regularly to go over test results, get health advice, and schedule surgeries. No matter which nurse it was, my concerns were heard and I felt supported. I leaned on them to ask questions, and sometimes, cry. Their dedication and compassion were instrumental in my recovery, and I am determined to help others in the way I was cared for. Currently, I am pursuing prerequisite coursework at Community College of Denver and Arapahoe Community College, laying the foundation for my nursing education. While balancing studies with the responsibilities of paying a mortgage and bills as a single woman, I am determined and motivated. I aspire to create a fulfilling career centered on patient care, empowering individuals to overcome adversity and achieve optimal health outcomes. As a future nurse, I envision myself as an advocate for my patients. I am particularly drawn to the field of oncology, where I can leverage my personal experience to provide empathetic care to those battling cancer. I believe that by combining clinical expertise with a genuine understanding of patients' needs, I can make a significant impact on their lives. The pursuit of a nursing degree represents a transformative chapter in my life. It is an opportunity to turn personal adversity into a force for positive change. I am eager to contribute my skills and personal experience to the healthcare field, and I'm grateful to be healthy enough to do it. Ultimately, my goal is to become a skilled and compassionate nurse who makes a positive difference in the lives of others. I am committed to lifelong learning and professional growth, and I believe that a strong educational foundation will enable me to achieve my aspirations.