As a single mother and a woman of faith, I believe that my journey to becoming a nurse is deeply rooted in my calling to serve others, reflecting the love and compassion that Christ has shown to us. From a young age, I felt a strong sense of purpose in caring for those in need, and this calling only grew stronger as I navigated the challenges and blessings of life. Nursing, to me, is not just a profession but a ministry—an opportunity to be the hands and feet of Christ in a world that is often in desperate need of hope and healing. My journey as a nurse began with the inspiration I found in my mother, who also devoted her life to nursing. Growing up, I was surrounded by the smell of disinfectant and the sight of caregivers tirelessly tending to the sick. I witnessed the profound impact that a kind word, a gentle touch, or simply being present could have on someone in their most vulnerable moments. These experiences planted the seeds of compassion in my heart and nurtured a desire to make a difference in the lives of others. As a single mother, my faith has been my anchor through the many storms I have faced. The challenges of raising children on my own while pursuing a demanding career have not been easy, but I have always believed that God has a purpose for my life and that He has equipped me with the strength and grace needed to fulfill it. My children are my greatest blessings, and I hope to be a beacon of light and hope for them, showing them through my actions what it means to live a life of service, faith, and resilience. In my work as a nurse, I strive to be a source of comfort and hope to my patients and their families. Every day, I am reminded that nursing is more than just administering medications or performing procedures—it is about connecting with people on a human level, understanding their fears and anxieties, and offering a compassionate presence in their time of need. I pray for the wisdom to provide not just physical care, but emotional and spiritual support as well, reflecting Christ's love in every interaction. My faith also guides me in my interactions with my colleagues and within my community. In a profession that can be emotionally and physically demanding, I seek to uplift those around me, offering encouragement and support whenever possible. I believe that by creating a positive and nurturing environment, we can better serve our patients and make a lasting impact on their lives. Ultimately, my hope is that through my work as a nurse, I can be a light in the darkness for those who are suffering, a source of hope for those who feel lost, and a reminder of God's unwavering love for all His children. Nursing is my calling, and I am humbled and grateful to be able to serve in this way. As I continue on this journey, I pray for the strength to remain faithful to this calling, and for the opportunity to touch the lives of many more people, bringing healing, hope, and love wherever I go.

Being a non-traditional college student has deeply influenced both my educational experience and the direction of my future goals. Unlike many traditional students who enter college directly after high school, my journey has been shaped by life experiences that have brought unique challenges and strengths to my academic pursuits. One of the most significant impacts of being a non-traditional student is the need to balance multiple responsibilities. As a full-time nurse, single mother, and student, my life is a constant juggling act. Managing these roles requires exceptional time management and prioritization skills. Unlike younger students who may focus solely on their studies, I must navigate the demands of work, parenting, and education simultaneously. This has taught me resilience and determination, as I often find myself studying late into the night after fulfilling my other obligations. While this balancing act can be exhausting, it has also made me more disciplined and focused. I approach my studies with a sense of purpose, knowing that every hour I invest in my education brings me closer to achieving my goals. Another impact of being a non-traditional student is the perspective I bring to my education. My life experiences have given me a unique lens through which I view my studies. As a nurse, I’ve encountered a wide range of patients and medical situations that have deepened my understanding of the concepts I learn in class. For example, when studying patient care, I can draw on real-world experiences that help me connect theory to practice. This practical knowledge not only enriches my learning but also allows me to contribute meaningfully to class discussions. My experiences as a mother and survivor of domestic violence have also shaped my approach to healthcare, instilling in me a deep empathy for those who are vulnerable and underserved. These experiences have profoundly impacted my future goals. My journey as a non-traditional student has clarified my desire to specialize in areas where I can make a significant difference, particularly in underserved communities. I am passionate about addressing health disparities and advocating for patients who may not have access to quality healthcare. My goal is to advance my nursing career, possibly as a nurse practitioner or in public health, where I can use my skills and experiences to improve the lives of others. Being a non-traditional student has also reinforced my commitment to lifelong learning. I see education as a continuous process of growth and self-improvement. Even after completing my degree, I plan to pursue further specialization and possibly a doctoral degree. I am driven by the belief that learning should never stop, especially in a field as dynamic and critical as healthcare. Being a non-traditional college student has deeply impacted my educational experience by teaching me resilience, discipline, and the value of diverse perspectives. These qualities have not only helped me succeed academically but have also shaped my future goals. I am committed to using my education to make a positive impact in the world, particularly for those who are most in need, and my journey as a non-traditional student has been a crucial part of shaping this vision.

Reflecting on my life journey, I see a path shaped by resilience, determination, and a deep commitment to service. Growing up in China, I was surrounded by the scent of disinfectants, as I spent much of my childhood in a hospital dorm where my mother worked as a nurse. Watching her care for others, even in the most challenging circumstances, planted the seeds of compassion and service within me. This early exposure to the healthcare environment, coupled with the sacrifices my mother made, inspired me to follow in her footsteps. As a first-generation immigrant, a single mother, and a domestic violence survivor, my life has been filled with challenges. Yet, these experiences have only strengthened my resolve to make a difference in the world. Balancing full-time work as a nurse with the demands of being a full-time student and mother has taught me the value of perseverance and hard work. These experiences have not only shaped my personal values—emphasizing empathy, resilience, and dedication—but also crystallized my career aspirations. I am driven by a desire to provide compassionate care, advocate for vulnerable populations, and contribute to a more equitable healthcare system. My commitment to community service is deeply rooted in my understanding of what it means to struggle and overcome. I know firsthand the importance of having someone to advocate for you, and I am determined to be that advocate for others. This commitment is what led me to pursue higher education in nursing, with the goal of advancing my skills and knowledge to better serve my community. I plan to use my education to specialize in areas where I can make the most impact, such as public health or advanced practice nursing. My goal is to work with underserved communities, particularly those who face barriers to accessing quality healthcare. By addressing health disparities and promoting preventive care, I hope to empower individuals and improve overall community health. This scholarship will be instrumental in helping me achieve these goals. It will alleviate the financial burden of my education, allowing me to focus more on my studies and less on how to manage the costs associated with school and life. With this support, I will be able to complete my degree and step into a role where I can make a significant and positive impact on my community. My life journey has been marked by challenges that have shaped my values and fueled my aspirations. I am committed to using my education to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others, and this scholarship will be a crucial step in helping me realize that dream.

My immigrant experience is one marked by resilience, adaptation, and a strong sense of purpose. As a first-generation immigrant from China, I arrived in the United States in my 30s, driven by the hope of creating a better future for myself and my family. Leaving behind the familiarity of my homeland, I embarked on a journey filled with both challenges and opportunities, all of which have significantly shaped my career aspirations and personal growth. Coming to a new country at an age when many are already settled in their careers was daunting. I had to navigate a new culture, language, and way of life, all while trying to establish a career in a highly competitive environment. The transition was not easy, but it taught me invaluable lessons in perseverance and adaptability. I quickly learned the importance of embracing change and staying open to new experiences. These qualities have been essential in helping me overcome the obstacles that come with being an immigrant in a foreign land. My decision to pursue a career in nursing was influenced by my deep-rooted desire to help others, a value instilled in me during my childhood in China. Growing up, I was inspired by my mother, who worked as a nurse. Her dedication to her patients and the impact she had on their lives left a lasting impression on me. When I moved to the United States, I saw nursing as not just a career, but a calling—one that would allow me to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others while also providing stability and security for my family. Despite the challenges of starting over in a new country, I remained committed to my goal of becoming a nurse. I worked tirelessly to improve my language skills, adapt to the American healthcare system, and gain the necessary qualifications. This journey required tremendous effort, but it also reinforced my belief in the power of education and hard work. Each step forward was a testament to my determination to succeed, not just for myself but for my family and the community I sought to serve. As I continue on my career path, my aspirations have evolved. I am now pursuing advanced nursing education intending to become an Acute Care Practitioner. This role will allow me to provide comprehensive care to individuals and families, particularly those who may face barriers to accessing quality healthcare, as I once did. I am passionate about addressing healthcare disparities and ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background, receives the care and support they need. My immigrant experience has profoundly shaped my identity and career aspirations. It has taught me the value of resilience, the importance of community, and the power of compassion. These lessons guide me every day as I work toward my goals and strive to make a positive impact in the world around me. Through my journey, I hope to inspire others who may be facing similar challenges to persevere and pursue their dreams, no matter how difficult the path may seem.

My desired career path is to become an Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNP), a role that will allow me to combine my passion for patient care with advanced clinical expertise. This career choice is driven by my experiences as a full-time nurse, single mother, and first-generation immigrant, all of which have shaped my commitment to providing compassionate and comprehensive care to diverse populations. The journey toward achieving my goal of becoming an ACNP has involved several critical steps. First, I pursued a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and gained valuable experience working as a registered nurse. In this role, I honed my clinical skills, deepened my understanding of patient care, and learned to navigate the complexities of the healthcare system. These experiences have been instrumental in preparing me for the advanced responsibilities of a nurse practitioner. To further my education and career, I am currently enrolled in a graduate nursing program with a focus on acute care. This program is providing me with the advanced knowledge and clinical skills necessary to diagnose and treat a wide range of health conditions across the lifespan. I am also gaining hands-on experience through clinical rotations, where I work alongside experienced practitioners to apply what I have learned in real-world settings. These rotations are not only enhancing my clinical abilities but also reinforcing my passion for providing holistic, patient-centered care. My experiences as a single mother and first-generation immigrant have deeply influenced my approach to nursing. I have a unique understanding of the challenges faced by individuals who may feel marginalized or underserved by the healthcare system. This perspective drives me to be an advocate for my patients, ensuring they receive the care and support they need. It also motivates me to pursue continuing education and stay current with the latest advancements in healthcare, so I can provide the highest quality care possible. In terms of skills, I have developed strong communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities through my nursing career. These skills are essential for a nurse practitioner, who must be able to assess patients' needs, develop treatment plans, and educate patients and their families about their health. My ability to connect with patients on a personal level, combined with my clinical expertise, positions me well for success as an ACNP. Looking ahead, I envision making a positive impact in my future profession by providing compassionate, evidence-based care to individuals and families. I am particularly interested in working with underserved populations, where I can address healthcare disparities and improve access to quality care. My goal is to create a practice environment where every patient feels valued, heard, and cared for, regardless of their background or circumstances. My desired career path as an Acute Care Nurse Practitioner aligns with my experiences, skills, and passion for patient care. The steps I have taken, including my education, clinical experience, and personal growth, have prepared me to excel in this role. I am committed to continuing my journey toward becoming an ACNP and making a meaningful difference in the lives of my patients.

My caregiving experience has been an integral part of my life, deeply shaping my personal goals, journey, and identity. As a full-time nurse, single mother, and first-generation immigrant, caregiving has been a constant, multifaceted role that I have embraced both professionally and personally. This experience has not only defined my career path but has also profoundly influenced my values, aspirations, and sense of self. Professionally, caregiving is at the heart of my work as a nurse. Every day, I am entrusted with the well-being of my patients, providing them with the medical care and emotional support they need. This responsibility requires not just technical skills and knowledge, but also empathy, patience, and the ability to connect with people from all walks of life. Through my experiences in nursing, I have learned the importance of advocating for patients, understanding their unique needs, and offering comfort in times of vulnerability. These experiences have reinforced my desire to advance in the field of nursing, leading me to pursue a Nurse Practitioner degree. I aim to gain a deeper understanding of healthcare so I can provide even more comprehensive care to my patients, especially those from underserved communities who may face challenges similar to those I have encountered in my life. On a personal level, caregiving has been a central part of my identity as a single mother. Raising my child on my own has been rewarding and challenging, requiring me to balance the demands of work, education, and parenting. This experience has taught me resilience, resourcefulness, and the importance of creating a stable and nurturing environment for my child. It has also driven me to set ambitious goals for myself, not only to provide for my family but also to be a role model for my child. I want my child to see that with determination, hard work, and compassion, it is possible to overcome obstacles and achieve great things. Being a first-generation immigrant and a domestic violence survivor adds another layer to my caregiving experience. Navigating life in a new country, often without the support systems that many take for granted, has been challenging. However, it has also instilled in me a strong sense of independence and a deep appreciation for the opportunities I have. My experiences have made me passionate about advocating for others who may be facing similar struggles, whether they are patients in my care or individuals in my community. This advocacy is a key component of my personal and professional goals, as I strive to make a difference in the lives of others who are navigating challenges of their own. Caregiving has profoundly shaped who I am today. It has influenced my career path, driving me to pursue advanced nursing education so I can better serve my patients. It has also shaped my personal goals, pushing me to create a better life for my child and to be an advocate for others facing adversity. Most importantly, caregiving has become a core part of my identity, teaching me the values of empathy, resilience, and compassion. These values guide me every day as I continue on my journey, striving to make a positive impact in the world around me.

My major is Nurse Practitioner, with a focus on acute care. As a full-time nurse, single mother, and first-generation immigrant, pursuing this advanced degree is both a personal and professional aspiration. My goal is to deepen my expertise in healthcare to better serve diverse communities, particularly those who, like me, face numerous challenges and often lack adequate access to quality care. Earning this scholarship would significantly impact my journey by alleviating some of the financial burdens associated with my studies. Balancing work, parenting, and education is incredibly demanding, and financial strain only adds to the challenge. This scholarship would allow me to focus more on my academic responsibilities and clinical training without the constant worry of financial stress. It would help cover the cost of textbooks, clinical supplies, and other essential educational resources, ensuring that I have the tools necessary to excel in my studies. Moreover, this scholarship would be a validation of my hard work and dedication, providing encouragement and motivation to continue pushing forward despite the obstacles I face. It would remind me that there are organizations and individuals who believe in my potential and are willing to invest in my future. This support would not only ease my financial burden but also strengthen my resolve to make a meaningful impact in the healthcare field. This scholarship would be instrumental in helping me achieve my goal of becoming a Nurse Practitioner, allowing me to continue my education and ultimately provide high-quality, compassionate care to those in need.

The idea of truth is a concept that reflects the belief that truth is subjective and personal, shaped by individual experiences, perspectives, and emotions. It suggests that each person has a version of truth that may differ from others. While this idea resonates with the emphasis on personal identity and experience in modern culture, it presents challenges when examined from a biblical standpoint as a Christian myself. I play multiple roles as a full-time nurse, single mother, and first-generation immigrant. I’ve undoubtedly faced many challenges and experiences that have shaped my understanding of truth. However, from a biblical perspective, truth is not based on individual experiences or emotions but is grounded like God and His Word. In John 14:6, Jesus declares, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me" (NIV). This statement highlights that truth is not something that varies from person to person but is found in the person of Jesus Christ. In a world where experiences and perspectives can differ vastly, this biblical truth remains constant and unchanging. The Bible further reinforces the idea of absolute truth in Psalm 119:160: "The entirety of Your word is truth, and every one of Your righteous judgments endures forever" (NKJV). This verse emphasizes that God's truth, as revealed in Scripture, is eternal and not subject to the fluctuations of human experience or cultural trends. Considering my background, particularly as someone who has faced significant challenges, including domestic violence, it's understandable that my experiences would deeply influence my understanding of the world. However, the Bible calls believers to align their understanding of truth with God's Word, which offers a solid foundation that is not swayed by personal circumstances or societal shifts. Isaiah 5:20 provides a caution against moral relativism, warning, "Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil; who put darkness for light, and light for darkness" (NIV). This verse underscores the potential dangers of subjective truth, where what one person considers "good" or "true" may be in direct opposition to God's standards. While the idea of truth emphasizes personal experience, the Bible presents a different view. God's truth is absolute, unchanging, and rooted in His character. As someone who has navigated numerous life challenges, embracing this biblical truth can offer a steady foundation and a source of hope and guidance, especially in times of uncertainty. Aligning my life with God's truth, rather than subjective interpretations, provides clarity and a deeper understanding of my purpose and identity in Christ.

Growing up in China, my journey into the nursing field began long before I even realized it. My childhood was spent surrounded by the sights and smells of a hospital environment, as I lived in the dorms attached to the hospital where my mother worked as a nurse. The distinct smell of disinfectant became a familiar part of my everyday life in my childhood, and the hospital corridors were as much a part of my world as the playgrounds that other children knew. After school, I would often walk by the hospital, catching glimpses of my mother in her uniform, diligently caring for her patients. These experiences, though commonplace to me at the time, planted the seeds for a career in nursing that would later become my passion. My mother’s influence was profound. As I observed her interactions with patients, I saw not just the application of medical knowledge but also the kindness and empathy that she brought to each encounter. She was more than a caregiver; she was a source of comfort and reassurance to those in her care. Witnessing the profound difference she made in the lives of her patients instilled in me a desire to follow in her footsteps. I wanted to be that person who could provide support and relief during some of the most critical moments in people’s lives. The hospital was not just a place of work for my mother; it was a living classroom where I learned the values of compassion, dedication, and the true impact that healthcare professionals can have on their communities. My passion for nursing is deeply rooted in these early experiences. The challenges my mother faced and the rewards she gained from her work further inspired me to pursue a career where I could contribute meaningfully to the well-being of others. Nursing, to me, is not just a profession but a calling—one that combines scientific knowledge with the art of caring. It is a field where empathy and expertise come together to make a real difference in people’s lives, something my mother exemplified every day. Her influence has shaped my aspirations and continues to fuel my dedication to this path. As I move forward in my career, I carry with me the lessons learned from my mother and the deep personal connection to nursing that will guide me in making a positive impact on the lives of those I care for.

Balancing work and caregiving as a single mother can be one of the most challenging experiences. I am a single mother, full-time nurse, full-time graduate school student, first generate immigrant and domestic violent victim. I am proud of what I have done for my children and myself. But those roles are not something I am willing to take. Those multiple roles require me to have significant spiritual, emotional, mental, and physical effort, quite often pushing me to my limits. I have to admit that my roles offer me opportunities for growth and clarity in what I truly want to achieve in my professional love. Balancing my full-time nurse job with caregiving responsibilities requires meticulous time management. The unpredictability of being a single mother, such as sudden medical emergencies or the need for emotional support, often clashes with work schedules, leading to stress and the need for constant adaptation. Caregiving can have financial implications, such as medical costs or the need to reduce work hours, which can affect long-term career goals and financial stability. This strain can lead to tough decisions about career advancement. However, the resilience developed through balancing my multiple roles can be a significant asset in my career. The ability to navigate stressful situations, adapt to changing circumstances, and maintain focus on long-term goals are qualities that I am proud of. Balancing work and caregiving is a challenging yet transformative experience that can deeply influence my career path. It fosters valuable skills such as resilience, empathy, and adaptability, while also prompting a reassessment of career priorities and goals. The caregiving experience often leads to a desire for work that is personally fulfilling and socially meaningful. Careers that contribute to societal good or that offer direct help to others may become more attractive, leading to a shift in career trajectory. Caregiving can lead to a reassessment of career priorities, often prompting a shift toward roles that offer more flexibility, job security, or alignment with personal values. For myself, it might lead to a desire to enter fields that directly impact others’ lives, such as healthcare provider influenced by their caregiving experiences. This is the main reason I have decided the pursue my master's degree to become a nurse practitioner. I understand that the school may give me more financial, emotional, and physical stress. But I have set up a role model for my children in their life. Life is tough, it is especially hard for a single-working mother. With all my hard work and resilience, it is rewarding.

Single mother, immigrant, first-generation college student, and/or survivor of abuse- those are keywords for me. I was born and raised in China. I don’t feel lucky to be born in a man-dominant country. As my mother told me, my father informed my grandfather of the birth of me: “Unluckily, she is a girl.” As I can remember, my father always fell asleep with the radio of the Voice of America when I was a child. I even think that my father may use the Voice of America as a white sound to treat his insomnia. He described the States to me that everyone has the freedom to receive education. Education is the wound deep inside my father. All the school was closed when my father was an 8th grader because of the Cultural Revolution. He was forfeited from receiving further education even though schools were reopened ten years later because my great-grandfather was classified as exploiting class by the Chinese Communist Party- he was a butcher. He obviously didn’t want his pain to happen to me. He always encouraged me to study hard, to go to college, and to read books. But meanwhile he always told me you can’t make it because you are a girl. The only time he told me:” Jin, I am proud of you! ” was six months before his unexpected death. I know he tried his best to love me. I met a man when I was 23 years old. He was exactly the image of what my father desired of me. He was smart. He went to college. He was a Ph.D. student in the States. I soon fell in love with him and married him. I followed him to move to my father’s dream country- the United States. But I was not happy in this marriage. We always fought and ended up being hit by him even though I was pregnant. He was arrested when my neighbor called 911 in a cold winter in Chicago. After being given pain medication I walked to the bathroom of the hospital, I barely recognized myself with a swelling and bruising face in the mirror. When asked by the persecutor if I was going to sue him, I declined it because I was financially dependent on him. The persecutor firmly told me in the court:” You will regret it.” Five years passed, and I started my first job as a registered nurse. I am very grateful that I had the chance to walk out of the castle governed by my former spouse. I am even more grateful that I heard the voice to encourage me to leave him. I finally decided to leave him with my two minor kids until he pushed me down the stairs. When the police officer asked him “Did you push her?” he denied it. Yes, as the persecutor told me, I regretted it. The entire lesson he learnt from to past is to lie to the police officer. I went to the court with limping legs to file the motion for a Temporary Protection Order. I am glad we escaped from a toxic relationship. I hope my kids are honest, and living a life with integrity and justice. Most importantly, I also hope my kids understand how important education is by studying with them and seeing how education changes my life. I hope they understand how to be independent mentally and love themselves in order to love the people around them.

Single mother, immigrant, woman of color, first-generation college student, and/or survivor of abuse. They are all my key word! I was born and raised in China. As I can remember, my father always fell asleep with the radio of the Voice of America when I was a child. I even think that my father may use the Voice of America as a white sound to treat his insomnia. He described the States to me that everyone is equal to receive education there. Education is the wound deep inside my father. All the schools were closed when my father was an 8th grader because of the Cultural Revolution. He was forfeited from receiving further education even though schools were reopened ten years later because my great-grandfather was classified as exploiting class by the Chinese Communist Party- he was a butcher. He didn’t want his pain to happen to me. He always encouraged me to study hard, to go to college, and to read books. But Meanwhile, he always told me you can’t make it. The only time he told me:” Jin, I am proud of you! ” was six months before his unexpected death. I fell in love and married a man when I was 23 years old. He was exactly the image of what my father desired of me. He was smart. He went to college. He was a Ph.D. student in the States. I followed him to move to my father’s dream country- the United States. We always fought and ended up being hit by him even though I was pregnant. He was arrested when my neighbor called 911 in a cold winter in Chicago. After being given pain medication I walked to the bathroom of the hospital, I barely recognized myself with a swelling and bruising face in the mirror. When asked by the persecutor if I was going to sue him, I declined it because I was financially dependent on him. The persecutor firmly told me in the court:” You will regret it.” Five years passed, and I started my first job as a registered nurse. When I tearfully to express my worry, my manager gave me all the resources I could get help with. But I still hesitated to leave him until he pushed me down the stairs. When the police officer asked him “Did you push her?” he denied it. The persecutor was correct, I deeply regretted it. The entire lesson he learnt from to past is to lie to the police officer. I went to the court with limping legs to file the motion for a Temporary Protection Order. I left him with my two minor children. Life is not easy for a single mother. My coworkers told me:” Jin, you have the faith, your children, education, and your job. You can support yourself and your children. Life is tough. When you go through this time and look back, you will be proud of yourself. Keep praying. Lord listens to our prayer.” I finished my bachelor of science in nursing. I was the first and only one to go to college in my entire family. I am in school for my master's degree in the Nurse Practitioner program. The education supported me to leave a toxic relationship and helped me to understand what is beneath domestic violence and why I was the victim. I would like to help those with a similar experience as me. I will go to the medical mission because that is my calling. I am very grateful to the Barbara DeVaney Memorial Scholarship Fund. I am greatly appreciative.