One of my most memorable outdoor experiences in Nigeria happened during a hiking trip to the Olumo Rock in Abeokuta. Climbing those ancient rocks not only tested my physical endurance but also offered a unique glimpse into Nigerian history and culture. The view from the top was breathtaking, allowing me to see the sprawling city below, nestled among lush greenery. The vibrancy of life, the colors, the sounds of local markets, and the warmth of the people added layers to that awe-inspiring experience. The journey up the rock was filled with moments of reflection. Each step reminded me of the challenges life throws at us. There were times when I struggled to maintain my balance as the path narrowed, much like the twists and turns we face in life. In those moments, I drew inspiration from the stories of the rock's significance. It is said that it served as a fortress during wars and has been a symbol of resilience for many generations. This historical context resonated with me, encouraging me to push through the difficult parts of the hike. Reaching the summit felt triumphant. It was a metaphor for overcoming challenges—symbolizing growth, change, and self-discovery. The way the cool breeze brushed against my skin brought a sense of clarity. I realized that every struggle faced during the climb mirrored the personal obstacles I had overcome. I began to see how I could apply this lesson to my own life, embracing challenges instead of shying away from them. The experience at Olumo Rock didn't just end with the hike. It led me to seek more outdoor adventures and embrace nature as a teacher. I now approach problems with the same mindset that I had on my hike: breaking them down into manageable steps and celebrating small victories along the way. Whether it’s in my personal life or at work, I constantly remind myself to maintain my balance and keep moving forward, regardless of how steep the path may be. This journey shaped my appreciation for nature and the lessons it carries. I started volunteering for environmental initiatives, understanding the importance of preserving our natural spaces. Getting up close with nature helped me become more mindful about our ecosystem, shaping my values regarding sustainability and the role we play in protecting our environment. Furthermore, sharing the experience with friends created bonds that deepened as we reminisced about every laugh, every supportive word during our tough moments, and the joy of achieving that goal together. The hike didn't just transform my view of life challenges; it encouraged me to share those insights with others, empowering them to face their obstacles head-on. Incorporating these experiences into my current journey serves as a constant reminder of resilience, strength, and community. Much like that magnificent rock, life may have its ups and downs, but it’s the climb that shapes us, and how we support one another that makes the journey worthwhile. By fostering connections and encouraging others to step out of their comfort zones, I hope to inspire a culture of perseverance and adventure in our everyday lives.

Mental health is a multifaceted aspect of our lives that influences our beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations in profound ways. My personal journey with mental health has shaped my understanding of resilience, empathy, and the importance of community, all of which have been instrumental in molding my identity and aspirations. Growing up, I faced periods of anxiety and depression. These experiences initially felt isolating, leading me to question my self-worth and the validity of my emotions. However, through therapy and self-reflection, I learned to acknowledge my struggles as a part of my human experience rather than a personal failing. This realization marked a significant turning point in my life. I began to understand that mental health is not merely the absence of illness but a dynamic state of well-being that requires ongoing care and attention. As a result, I developed a belief system rooted in self-acceptance and compassion, both for myself and others. This belief has become a guiding principle in my life, influencing how I approach challenges and setbacks. In terms of relationships, my experiences with mental health have fostered a deep sense of empathy towards others. I have come to recognize that everyone has their battles, often hidden beneath the surface. This awareness has allowed me to cultivate deeper connections with friends and family, as I strive to create open and supportive environments where we can share our struggles without fear of judgment. I have also taken it upon myself to advocate for mental health awareness among my peers. By sharing my story and encouraging others to speak openly about their experiences, I aim to break the stigma surrounding mental health issues. This advocacy has strengthened my relationships, as it has created a network of support where we can uplift one another during difficult times. Moreover, my journey has significantly influenced my career aspiration. I found myself increasingly passionate about Nursing (psychiatrist nurse) and mental health advocacy. I realized that I wanted to dedicate my career to helping others navigate their mental health challenges, just as I had learned to do. This shift in perspective led me to pursue a degree in Nursing. I aspire to create a safe space for individuals to explore their emotions and develop coping strategies, fostering resilience and personal growth. In addition to therapy, I am also interested in exploring policy work related to mental health. I believe that systemic change is essential for improving access to mental health resources and destigmatizing mental health issues. I envision a future where mental health is prioritized in schools, workplaces, and communities, ensuring that everyone has the support they need to thrive. This vision fuels my ambition and reinforces my commitment to this field. Ultimately, my experiences with mental health have transformed my beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations in meaningful ways. I have learned that vulnerability is not a weakness but a strength that fosters connection and understanding. I hold a deep conviction that mental health should be at the forefront of our societal conversations, shaping policies and practices that promote well-being for all. As I continue my educational journey, I am excited about the prospect of contributing to this vital field, guided by the lessons I have learned through my own experiences. I am committed to using my voice and skills to advocate for mental health awareness and support, ensuring that others do not have to navigate their struggles alone. This scholarship would not only support my educational goals but also empower me to realize my vision of a more compassionate and understanding society.

My name is Aliche Jane Nwannennaya. I'm from Africa, Nigeria to be precise. I'm nineteen years of age. I lived with my parents back then in my home country and life hasn't been that easy for us. My Dad made sure that I and my siblings had a solid education despite all odds. I attended one of the best high schools in town. The name of the school is Caray College International. It was a boarding school and I would say that the school had a positive impact on me. It made me realize that you have to work hard in order to achieve your goals. My first day at the boarding school was really difficult because I was only eleven years. I had to do my things all by myself, like my laundry but, I was able to cope. It became more interesting when I found out that my parents could visit me once every month. Academically, I wasn't so sound during the first three semesters. I knew what I was doing, but I lacked concentration. Later on, I was able to do better. My teachers were really surprised and they encouraged me. My Dad was very proud of me and he gave me some words of encouragement. He always told me to work hard and utilize every good opportunity very well. In 2021, I sat for my school exams, WAEC and NECO and I passed with flying colors. I was very excited and to top it all, I was the best student in Chemistry and Economics. During the long break before I was able to get into the University, my Aunt called my mom and told her about these international exams (TOEFL and SAT). I had no idea what that was, I didn't have a phone then. My Aunt explained everything to my mom and we decided to give it a try. I got a passport, I never had one, took the exams. I was very tensed during the exams but I tried. I didn't have the best results, but I was still grateful. It was my first time and I wasn't so confident in myself. I know that if I had taken the tests again, I would have gotten better scores. After everything, I gained admission into New Mexico Highlands University. I got my visa and I came into the States. I must say that it was the best day of my life. I got to New Mexico, it was a very new atmosphere. I tried to adjust but it was quite difficult. After my Fall semester last year, I got transferred to Boston. My GPA while I was at New Mexico was 3.5. I wasn't impressed with that, I had to work harder. By the time I was done with the spring semester at Roxbury community college, My GPA was 3.9. I really worked for it and it is required because of my field of study. Right now, I'm in health careers going into the nursing program. I want to study this course because of my passion for humanity, I love to help people in need. I am not very financially stable, that is the major reason for applying to this scholarship. I'm hoping to get this scholarship because it will help me get into the nursing program and achieve my goals. This scholarship is the perfect help that I can get. I really want to study Nursing Science because I know that I would make a difference. I'm very hardworking and I won't relent until I achieve what I ought to achieve. Thank you!!!!!