A career in healthcare offers the opportunity to improve lives not only through clinical skill, but through compassion, advocacy, and education. I plan to improve the lives of others by providing patient-centered care that recognizes the physical, emotional, and psychological challenges individuals face, especially those living with lung disease or rare medical conditions. These patients often navigate uncertainty, fear, and complex healthcare systems, and I want to be someone who helps them feel supported, informed, and valued. My interest in respiratory care stems from an understanding that breathing is fundamental to life yet often taken for granted until it becomes difficult. Patients with chronic lung diseases such as asthma, COPD, pulmonary fibrosis, or acute respiratory failure face daily challenges that affect their independence and quality of life. Through my career, I hope to help patients regain confidence in their ability to breathe, move, and live fully. By delivering evidence-based respiratory care and monitoring patients closely, I aim to improve outcomes while also easing anxiety that frequently accompanies breathing disorders. Individuals with rare medical conditions face unique obstacles, including delayed diagnoses, limited treatment options, and a lack of awareness or understanding from others. I want to be an advocate for these patients by listening carefully, staying informed, and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to provide personalized care. Advocacy is especially important for patients who may feel overlooked or misunderstood due to the rarity of their condition. By taking the time to educate myself and others, I hope to contribute to more inclusive and informed healthcare environments. In addition to clinical care, I plan to empower patients through education. Teaching patients and families how to manage medications, respiratory equipment, and lifestyle adjustments can significantly improve daily functioning and long-term health. Education fosters independence and confidence, allowing patients to actively participate in their own care rather than feeling controlled by their condition. This approach aligns with my belief that knowledge is a powerful tool in improving health outcomes. Emotional support is another critical aspect of care that I value deeply. Living with lung disease or a rare condition can be isolating and mentally exhausting. I want to be a healthcare professional who listens without judgment, reassures during moments of fear, and acknowledges the emotional weight of chronic illness. By building trust and rapport, I hope to create a sense of safety and comfort for patients during vulnerable moments. Ultimately, I envision a healthcare career rooted in compassion, advocacy, and excellence. By combining technical skill with empathy, I plan to improve lives by helping patients breathe easier, feel heard, and navigate their health journeys with dignity. Through my work with individuals facing lung disease and rare medical conditions, I hope to contribute to a healthcare system that prioritizes both healing and humanity.

My commitment to supporting others’ mental health has been shaped by my experiences working with patients during some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives. One of the most impactful roles I have had is sitting with patients in the emergency room who are experiencing suicidal thoughts or emotional crises. In these moments, safety, compassion, and presence matter just as much as medical care. Being entrusted with that responsibility has deeply influenced how I understand emotional support. While sitting with these patients, my role is to ensure their safety, but I have learned that emotional reassurance can be just as powerful. Many patients feel overwhelmed, isolated, or unheard. I make it a priority to offer encouraging words, gentle reassurance, and a calm presence. When appropriate, I pray with them or for them, offering comfort rooted in hope and compassion. Sometimes the most meaningful support I can provide is simply listening, allowing them to express fear, pain, or uncertainty without judgment. These experiences have taught me that emotional support does not always require the perfect words. Often, it is about showing patience, empathy, and consistency. By remaining present, alert, and attentive, I help create a space where patients feel safe and valued. Watching over them during such critical moments has strengthened my sense of responsibility and reinforced the importance of mental health care within healthcare settings. As I continue my studies, I plan to build on these experiences by deepening my understanding of mental health, emotional resilience, and patient-centered care. My goal is to pursue a career where I can continue supporting individuals both physically and emotionally. I want to be someone patients trust, especially during moments of distress, uncertainty, or fear. In my future career, I hope to advocate for compassionate, holistic care that recognizes mental and emotional health as essential components of overall well-being. I plan to support others by listening attentively, encouraging healthy coping strategies, and creating environments where individuals feel seen and supported. Whether through direct patient care, mentorship, or community involvement, I want to be a steady presence for those who may feel alone. Ultimately, my experiences in the emergency room have shaped my purpose. By offering empathy, prayer, encouragement, and vigilance during moments of crisis, I have learned the power of human connection. I plan to carry these lessons forward, using my education and career to continue emotionally supporting others with compassion.

My identity as a young African American woman has shaped my path in ways that are both challenging and empowering. Growing up as part of an underrepresented minority, I learned early that representation is not always guaranteed in educational or professional spaces. Often, I did not see people who looked like me in leadership roles, healthcare positions, or academic environments. While this absence sometimes made me feel invisible, it also strengthened my determination to succeed and to become the representation I once searched for. Being raised in a single African American household further influenced how I view opportunity and responsibility. I witnessed resilience daily and learned the importance of perseverance in the face of limited resources and systemic barriers. These experiences taught me that success requires not only effort, but confidence in one’s worth, even when society may underestimate it. Navigating spaces where my background was underrepresented pushed me to work harder and advocate for myself in ways I had not anticipated. As I pursued higher education, my identity became a source of motivation rather than limitation. I recognized that my perspective brings value to classrooms and future workplaces that benefit from diverse voices. In academic settings, I often felt the pressure of disproving stereotypes while striving for excellence. This pressure was heavy at times, but it strengthened my resilience and reinforced my commitment to my goals. I learned to take pride in my identity and to view my background as an asset that enhances my ability to connect with others. Looking ahead, my identity will continue to shape my path as I pursue a career centered on service and impact. I am particularly drawn to fields where African American and minority communities are historically underserved. I want to use my education to bridge gaps in access, understanding, and trust. Having firsthand knowledge of cultural barriers allows me to approach my future work with empathy and awareness that cannot be taught in textbooks alone. I also hope to inspire others from underrepresented backgrounds to pursue higher education and professional opportunities without fear of exclusion. Representation matters, and I want younger students to see someone who reflects their experiences succeeding in spaces they may feel uncertain about entering. By sharing my journey and offering mentorship, I aim to encourage confidence and persistence in those who may doubt their potential. Ultimately, my identity has shaped my strength, perspective, and purpose. As a member of an underrepresented minority, I carry both the responsibility and the privilege of creating space for others. My path is not only about personal achievement but about contributing to a future where diversity is valued, equity is pursued, and opportunity is accessible for all.

Pursuing higher education has required me to overcome both personal and systemic obstacles, many of which began at home. I was raised in a single African American household where resilience, responsibility, and perseverance were not optional, but necessary. While my parent worked tirelessly to provide for our family, I learned early on that stability was not guaranteed and that education would be my strongest pathway to opportunity. Witnessing sacrifice firsthand motivated me to take my academic goals seriously, even when circumstances made the journey challenging. One of the greatest obstacles I have faced is navigating higher education with limited financial resources and support. Balancing tuition costs, transportation, work responsibilities, and academic expectations has required discipline and maturity beyond my years. There were moments when exhaustion and stress made it difficult to stay focused, yet I remained determined. I understood that earning a degree was not only a personal goal, but a way to break cycles and create greater security for myself and my family. In addition to financial challenges, I have had to overcome self-doubt. As a student from a single-parent household, I often felt pressure to succeed while carrying the fear of failure. I questioned whether I truly belonged in higher education spaces that did not always reflect my background or experiences. Over time, I learned to transform that doubt into motivation. Seeking mentorship, practicing self-discipline, and believing in my abilities allowed me to persist through demanding coursework and personal setbacks. Despite these challenges, my pursuit of higher education is driven by a deep desire to give back to my community. I plan to use my education to support individuals who face similar barriers, particularly those from underserved or minority communities. Through my future career, I hope to promote access to education, health resources, and wellness education in ways that are culturally aware and approachable. I also intend to give back through mentorship and community outreach. Representation matters, and I want younger students to see someone who understands their struggles and has navigated similar obstacles. By sharing my experiences and knowledge, I hope to encourage others to believe that higher education is attainable, regardless of background. Ultimately, growing up in a single African American household shaped my strength, perspective, and determination. The obstacles I have overcome have prepared me to lead with empathy and purpose. Through my education, I aim to uplift my community, create opportunity, and contribute to lasting, positive change for future generations.

My passion for wellness developed through my own experiences learning how daily habits influence both physical and mental health. I have learned that health is not a one-size-fits-all journey, and that people are more likely to succeed when they feel supported rather than pressured. Dr. Aldana’s philosophy reinforces this belief. Instead of focusing on perfection, I want to encourage progress small changes that fit into real lives, busy schedules, and individual circumstances. Through my education, I am gaining the scientific foundation needed to support wellness with credible, research-backed knowledge. I see myself using this education to educate others in ways that feel approachable and empowering. Whether I am working with patients, coworkers, or members of my community, I want to help translate complex health information into simple, actionable steps. This may look like encouraging better breathing habits, improving sleep routines, prioritizing movement, or managing stress more effectively. These small, daily actions often lead to the greatest improvements over time. I am especially motivated to work with individuals who feel discouraged or disconnected from traditional health messages. Many people want to be healthier but do not know where to start or feel judged for past habits. I want to be someone who meets them with patience, listens to their goals, and reminds them that progress is still progress, no matter how small. That mindset has the power to change confidence and outcomes. This approach aligns with how I hope to serve others. What stands out most to me about Dr. Aldana’s legacy is the way he led with compassion. He did not simply teach wellness; he lived it. I believe that leading by example is one of the most powerful tools we have. By practicing healthy habits myself and remaining honest about challenges, I hope to create a sense of trust and relatability. When people see that wellness is achievable, not perfect, they are more likely to believe in themselves. I also hope to contribute to healthier environments, especially in educational and workplace settings. Dr. Aldana demonstrated that wellness thrives when systems support it. In the future, I want to advocate for spaces that encourage balance, mental well-being, and long-term health rather than burnout. Even small changes within these environments can positively affect many lives. Ultimately, I see my education as a way to serve others with purpose and empathy. By combining evidence-based knowledge with kindness and consistency, I aim to continue Dr. Steve Aldana’s mission by helping individuals realize that meaningful health improvements begin with small, sustainable habits practiced every day.

Growing up in a single-parent and low-income household has taught me the true meaning of strength, perseverance, and faith. Watching my parent work hard to provide for our family, even when times were difficult, showed me that determination and resilience can overcome almost anything. Those experiences motivated me to work just as hard to build a better future for myself and to never take education for granted. There were times when I questioned whether I could afford to continue my studies, especially after having to move back home from a university due to financial limitations. But instead of giving up, I used that challenge as motivation to keep pushing forward. I enrolled at Midland College and continued pursuing my dream of becoming a respiratory therapist. That experience taught me that success isn’t about how fast you get there it’s about staying committed, no matter how many times you have to start over. Coming from a single-parent household has also made me more compassionate toward others who face their own struggles. I plan to use my life experiences to encourage and inspire others in my community who may feel limited by their circumstances. Through my future work as a respiratory therapist, I hope to make a difference not only by caring for patients’ physical health but also by offering kindness, understanding, and hope. Right now, I am actively working toward my goals by studying in the respiratory care program at Midland College, volunteering in my church’s media ministry, and staying focused on completing my degree. Every step I take is driven by the desire to make my family proud and to show others that with faith, determination, and hard work, it’s possible to rise above any challenge and create a meaningful life.

My decision to pursue my education at a community college was shaped by both personal experience and the challenges I’ve faced along my academic journey. After beginning my studies at a university in San Marcos, I encountered financial hardships that made it difficult to continue there. Having to move back to my hometown was not an easy choice, but it gave me the chance to pause, reflect, and find a more realistic path toward achieving my goals. That’s when I discovered Midland College and the respiratory care program it offered. Choosing to attend a community college has been one of the best decisions I’ve made. It has provided me with the opportunity to continue my education in a supportive, affordable, and encouraging environment. I’ve been able to connect more closely with instructors, receive hands-on training, and focus deeply on the career I’m passionate about. My experience has shown me that community college isn’t just a steppingstone it’s a strong foundation for building a meaningful future. My future educational goal is to complete the respiratory care program at Midland College and become a licensed respiratory therapist. I plan to work in a hospital or clinical setting, helping patients who are struggling to breathe and improving their quality of life. Beyond that, I hope to continue my education by earning a bachelor’s degree in healthcare or respiratory therapy to expand my knowledge and open more opportunities in leadership or education. The journey hasn’t been easy, but every challenge has made me more determined. My time at community college has shown me the value of perseverance, adaptability, and faith. It has reminded me that success isn’t defined by where you start, but by your commitment to keep going.

My name is Jamorah and my educational journey has been anything but easy, but it has taught me the importance of perseverance, faith, and self-belief. One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced was having to move back to my hometown after attending a university in San Marcos due to financial aid issues. At the time, it felt like a major setback, but it ultimately became a turning point that helped me grow stronger and more determined to reach my goals. When I first began my studies at Texas State University, I was full of excitement and dreams for my future. I was determined to work hard and make the most of every opportunity. However, as time went on, financial challenges began to weigh heavily on me. I applied for scholarships, worked part-time, and did everything I could to make ends meet, but eventually, I realized that continuing at the university wasn’t financially possible at that moment. Having to make the decision to move back home was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. I felt disappointed in myself and worried about what would happen next. Even though it was a difficult adjustment, moving back home gave me a chance to refocus and remind myself why I started in the first place. I took time to pray, plan, and explore other opportunities that would allow me to continue pursuing my passion for respiratory care. That’s when I discovered the program at Midland College. After researching it and speaking with advisors, I knew it was the perfect place to continue my journey. When I was accepted into the program, I felt a renewed sense of purpose and gratitude. This experience taught me that setbacks don’t define you how you respond to them does. I could have given up when things got hard, but instead, I used the situation as motivation to keep going. Moving home gave me a stronger support system, a better understanding of financial responsibility, and a clearer vision for my future. It reminded me that the path to success isn’t always straight or easy, but every obstacle can lead to growth. Being in the respiratory program at Midland College has confirmed that I’m exactly where I’m supposed to be. Every class, every clinical, and every challenge pushes me to become a more skilled and compassionate healthcare professional. I’ve learned to appreciate every opportunity and to never take my education for granted. Looking back, I’m grateful for the challenges I faced because they built my resilience and shaped my character. They reminded me that persistence and faith can carry you through anything. I may have had to take a different path than I originally planned, but it’s the path that has prepared me for the future I’ve always dreamed of one where I can make a difference in the lives of others as a respiratory therapist.

My name is Jamorah and I am a student at midland college with plans to continue my education in respiratory care. From a young age, I have always been drawn to helping others and making a difference in people’s lives, especially during times when they need it the most. As I’ve grown and learned more about healthcare, I’ve discovered that respiratory therapy is the field where I can combine my compassion for others, my interest in science, and my desire to be part of a team that saves lives every day. My interest in healthcare began with a curiosity about how the human body works and how medical professionals can bring healing and comfort to others. Over time, this interest turned into a passion when I began learning more about the respiratory system and how essential breathing is to every part of life. The idea that respiratory therapists help patients who are struggling to breathe, something so simple yet vital, truly spoke to my heart. I realized that I wanted to be part of a profession that not only treats patients physically but also supports them emotionally during some of their hardest moments. What draws me most to respiratory therapy is the direct impact it has on patients’ lives. Whether it’s helping a newborn take their first breaths, assisting someone recovering from surgery, or caring for a patient with chronic lung disease, respiratory therapists are there through it all. I’m especially inspired by how the field combines both critical thinking and compassion. You have to be skilled in understanding complex medical situations, but you also have to be patient and kind, knowing that every breath you help restore brings hope to a family. In addition to my passion for healthcare, I’ve learned the importance of communication, teamwork, and empathy through my involvement in my local church and community service. These experiences have helped me build the character and emotional strength needed for a career in medicine. They’ve taught me to listen carefully, show understanding, and treat every person with dignity values that are essential for providing quality care. Looking ahead, my goal is to become a licensed respiratory therapist and work in a hospital setting, where I can continue to grow and make a difference every day. I also hope to educate others on the importance of respiratory health and possibly mentor future students who share the same passion. I know the path ahead will be challenging, but I’m determined to work hard, stay focused, and continue trusting that this calling was placed on my heart for a reason. Choosing a career in respiratory care isn’t just a career choice it’s a commitment to serving others with compassion, knowledge, and purpose. I want to be that person who helps someone take a deep breath again, both physically and emotionally. That’s what drives me, and that’s why I’m pursuing a future in respiratory therapy.

My involvement in my local church has allowed me to serve my community in a way that combines both my faith and my creativity. As a member of the church’s social media team, I work as a photographer and graphic designer to help share the message of Christ and highlight the good our church is doing in the community. Through this role, I’ve learned that service doesn’t always have to be physical, it can also be about using your talents to inspire, uplift, and connect others. When I first joined the social media team, I thought it would just be about taking photos and designing flyers. But over time, I realized that it was so much more than that. Every post, photo, and design has a purpose: to reach someone who may need encouragement, direction, or a reminder that they are not alone. By capturing moments from worship, community events, and outreach programs, I help tell the story of what God is doing in our church and beyond. My camera and creativity have become tools for ministry. One of the most meaningful parts of this role is seeing how our online presence impacts people who might not attend church regularly. Some people see a post or video online and decide to visit on Sunday. Others message us asking for prayer or information about volunteer opportunities. Knowing that my work plays a small part in connecting people to faith and community makes it incredibly rewarding. It reminds me that even behind a screen, we can still spread light and hope. Being part of the social media team has also strengthened my sense of responsibility and leadership. I’ve learned to work with others, meet deadlines, and stay consistent in representing our church’s mission and values. This experience has pushed me to grow not only in my creative skills but also in my spiritual life. Every time I create something new, I ask myself how it can serve others and reflect the love of Christ. Outside of church, this experience has inspired me to look for other ways to serve my community. I’ve volunteered to take photos for local events, helped design flyers for youth programs, and encouraged others to use their talents for good. My time on the church media team has shown me that service comes in many forms. Whether you’re preaching, feeding the homeless, or posting a message of hope online, it all works together to make a difference.Through my involvement in my church, I’ve learned that faith and creativity can work hand in hand. My role on the social media team isn’t just about creating content it’s about sharing God’s love in a modern and meaningful way. It’s about using what I have to serve others, inspire change, and remind people that there is always hope.

There are many people and experiences that shape who we are, but the one who has had the greatest impact on my life is Jesus Christ. His teachings, sacrifice, and presence in my daily life have changed the way I see the world and how I choose to live in it. Through Him, I have found peace in difficult times, purpose when I’ve felt lost, and strength when I thought I had none left.Before I truly began to understand who Jesus was, I often tried to handle everything on my own. I believed that if I just worked hard enough or stayed positive, everything would fall into place. But life has a way of showing us that we can’t always control what happens. During times of stress, confusion, or pain, I realized that relying only on myself wasn’t enough. It was through prayer and reading the Bible that I began to see that Jesus wasn’t just a distant figure from history He was real, loving, and deeply present in my life. His message of unconditional love and forgiveness started to change the way I thought about everything. One of the biggest lessons Jesus has taught me is about grace. He forgives even when we don’t deserve it and loves us even when we feel unworthy. That kind of love has made me more compassionate toward others and more patient with myself. When I make mistakes, I remember that Jesus never asked for perfection. He asked for faith and a willing heart. Knowing that has helped me let go of guilt and instead focus on growing as a person. Jesus has also given me a sense of purpose. Instead of chasing temporary happiness, I try to live in a way that reflects His kindness and humility. Whether it’s showing love to someone who’s hurting, forgiving when it’s hard, or simply being grateful for what I have, I try to follow His example. My relationship with Him reminds me that my life has meaning beyond what I can see or understand. Most importantly, Jesus has given me hope. Life can be unpredictable and unfair, but His promises remind me that there is always something greater ahead. Even in my lowest moments, I find peace knowing that He is in control and that everything I go through has a purpose. That hope keeps me moving forward, even when things don’t make sense.In every part of my life my choices, my values, and my outlook on the future Jesus continues to shape who I am. He has turned my fears into faith, my struggles into lessons, and my doubts into trust. I can’t think of anyone who has made a bigger difference in my life than Him. His love is the foundation I stand on, and because of Him, I know that I am never alone.