Hello! My name is Janelle Joseph, and I am a first-generation student at the University of Florida pursuing a career in nursing. As the first person in my family to attend college, I understand both the excitement and the uncertainty that come with pursuing higher education. While my family has always encouraged me to do my best, they were unfamiliar with the college process, so I had to learn how to navigate applications, financial aid, registration, and campus resources on my own. Those experiences challenged me, but they also helped me become more independent, resilient, and confident in my ability to overcome obstacles. Growing up, I understood that earning a college degree was an opportunity to create a better future for myself and my family. Being a first-generation student has taught me that success is not about having all the answers from the beginning. Instead, it comes from being willing to ask questions, seek guidance, and continue moving forward even when things feel difficult. Every challenge I have faced has helped me grow, and I have learned that asking for help is a sign of strength rather than weakness. I plan to inspire and motivate other first-generation students by being someone they can relate to and trust. I know how overwhelming college can feel when you are trying to figure everything out for the first time. There are moments of self-doubt, uncertainty, and feeling like everyone else already knows what they are doing. I want other students to know that those feelings are normal and that they do not define their ability to succeed. By sharing my own experiences, listening to others, and encouraging students to use the many resources available on campus, I hope to help them feel more confident and supported throughout their college journey. As someone pursuing nursing, I value compassion, empathy, and service. These qualities extend beyond the classroom and into the way I hope to support my peers. Whether it is answering questions, connecting students with resources, or simply being a friendly face who understands their experiences, I want to create an environment where first-generation students feel welcomed and empowered. Sometimes, having someone who believes in you and reminds you that you belong can make all the difference. Being a first-generation student is something I am incredibly proud of. It represents resilience, determination, and the courage to pursue opportunities that previous generations in my family did not have. I hope to encourage other students to embrace their journeys, celebrate their accomplishments, and never let fear stop them from reaching their goals. By leading with kindness, perseverance, and a willingness to help others, I want to inspire first-generation students to believe in themselves, pursue higher education with confidence, and recognize that they have the ability to achieve great things.

I am a dedicated student with a strong interest in healthcare and a clear goal of becoming a nurse. I chose the health science field because I enjoy learning how the human body works, but even more than that, I am passionate about working with people and helping them through difficult moments in their lives. I have always been the kind of person who wants to step in when someone needs support, and healthcare gives me the opportunity to turn that instinct into a meaningful career. One of the experiences that pushed me toward this field was working in a rehabilitation facility. In that environment, I interact with patients who are recovering from injuries, illness, or major life changes. This has given me a real understanding of what patient care looks like beyond textbooks. I have seen patients feel frustrated, scared, or discouraged, and I have also seen how much of a difference it makes when someone takes the time to listen to them. Even simple things, like checking in on a patient or helping communicate their needs to a nurse or doctor, can change their entire mood and outlook. That experience showed me that healthcare is not just about treatment, but about connection and support. I chose healthcare because I want a career where I can make a real, direct impact on people’s lives. I am especially interested in nursing because it combines science, critical thinking, and compassion. It is a field where you are constantly learning, adapting, and working as part of a team to care for others. I am drawn to that responsibility and the idea that my actions, even small ones, can improve someone’s health and comfort. As I continue in this field, I want to grow into a nurse who is dependable, patient, and understanding. I also want to build strong communication skills so I can advocate for my patients effectively. I have learned that many people feel overwhelmed or unheard in healthcare settings, and I want to be someone who helps change that experience for them. I want patients to feel respected and taken seriously, no matter who they are or where they come from. The difference I hope to make in the world is centered on care, trust, and advocacy. I want to help create a healthcare environment where patients feel safe and supported, not intimidated. In the future, I also hope to work in areas like trauma or forensic nursing, where I can support individuals who have experienced serious physical or emotional harm. My goal is to be someone who brings comfort in difficult situations while also contributing to proper care and documentation. Overall, I see healthcare as a way to serve others in a meaningful and lasting way. It allows me to combine my interests with my values, and it gives me the chance to make a positive impact every day.

My motivation to pursue higher education comes from a strong desire to grow personally and professionally so I can make a meaningful impact in healthcare. I see education as the key step that will allow me to gain the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to become a skilled and compassionate nurse. I have always believed that learning is not just about earning a degree, but about preparing yourself to serve others in a responsible and effective way. Working in a rehabilitation facility has been one of the biggest influences on my decision to continue my education. In this setting, I have seen how important it is for healthcare workers to be both knowledgeable and compassionate. Patients are often dealing with physical pain as well as emotional stress, and they rely heavily on the care team for support and guidance. This experience has shown me that I want to take on a greater role in patient care, where I can make clinical decisions, advocate more strongly for patients, and provide more advanced support. Pursuing higher education is the path that will allow me to reach that level of responsibility. I am also motivated by my long-term goal of working in forensic nursing. This field requires advanced training and a strong educational foundation because it involves caring for patients who have experienced trauma while also understanding the legal aspects of documentation and evidence collection. I want to be prepared to handle these situations with professionalism, accuracy, and empathy. Higher education will give me the tools I need to provide safe, supportive, and effective care in these complex situations. In addition to my career goals, I am motivated by a desire to serve my community. I want to be a nurse who not only treats illness but also helps educate patients, builds trust, and advocates for those who may not always feel heard in healthcare settings. I believe that continued education will help me become more confident in doing this work and more effective in addressing the needs of diverse patients. This scholarship would make a meaningful difference in my educational journey. Paying for college and related expenses can be challenging, especially while balancing work and school responsibilities. Financial support would reduce stress and allow me to focus more fully on my academics, clinical training, and professional development opportunities. It would also give me the ability to dedicate more time to learning experiences that will prepare me for my future career, rather than worrying about financial pressure. Overall, this scholarship would be an important step in helping me reach my goal of becoming a well-prepared and compassionate nurse. It would support my education today and help me build a career dedicated to providing high-quality care and making a positive impact on patients’ lives.

I am a motivated and compassionate student who is working toward a career in nursing. I have always been drawn to helping others, and over time, that passion has grown into a clear goal of making a difference through healthcare. My experiences in both my work and school environments have helped shape my values and given me a better understanding of the kind of impact I want to have in the future. I currently work in a rehabilitation facility, where I support patients as they recover and adjust to changes in their health. This role has taught me how important patience and understanding are when caring for others. Every patient has a different story, and I have learned to listen closely and treat each person with respect. Being in this environment has also shown me how much trust patients place in healthcare workers, which is something I do not take lightly. It has pushed me to become more responsible, attentive, and thoughtful in the way I interact with others. Outside of work, I stay involved on campus and will be serving as an MFOS peer leader. I enjoy being someone others can rely on, whether that means offering advice, support, or simply listening. This role is important to me because I know how helpful it is to have guidance, especially when entering a new environment. I hope to create a positive and welcoming space for incoming students so they feel more confident and supported. My background as a Haitian American has also played a big role in shaping who I am. I come from a culture that values community, resilience, and caring for others. These values influence how I approach both my personal and professional life. They have also made me more aware of the challenges some communities face when it comes to accessing healthcare, which motivates me to be part of the solution. Through my career in nursing, I plan to make a positive impact by providing care that is not only skilled, but also compassionate and respectful. I am especially interested in forensic nursing because it allows me to support individuals who have gone through traumatic experiences. I want to help patients feel safe and supported while also playing a role in ensuring their voices are heard. Overall, I hope to make a difference by being someone who listens, advocates, and cares deeply for others. By continuing to grow and learn, I plan to use my career to support both individuals and my community in a meaningful way.

Being Caribbean, and specifically Haitian, is a very important part of who I am. To me, being Caribbean means being strong, proud, and connected to my community. Haitians have a history of overcoming struggles and continuing to move forward, and that strength inspires me every day. It has taught me to stay determined even when things are difficult and to always support the people around me. Growing up in a Haitian household, I learned the importance of family, respect, and caring for others. In my culture, helping others is a normal part of life. Whether someone is sick, stressed, or going through a hard time, we show up for them. This has shaped the way I treat people and is one of the main reasons I want to become a nurse. Nursing allows me to care for others in a meaningful way, just like I was taught growing up. Being Haitian has also helped me understand that not everyone has the same access to healthcare. Some people may face language barriers, financial struggles, or feel uncomfortable speaking up in medical settings. I have seen how this can affect the way people receive care. Because of this, I want to be a nurse who makes patients feel safe, respected, and understood. I want to take the time to listen to them and make sure they feel heard. My background will shape me as a nurse by helping me connect with different types of patients. I understand that everyone comes from different cultures and experiences, and I will respect that in my care. I will be patient, kind, and open-minded with every person I work with. I also want to advocate for my patients, especially those who may not feel comfortable speaking up for themselves. I hope to give back to my community by helping educate others about their health and making healthcare feel less confusing or scary. I also want to be someone that people can trust, especially within Caribbean and Haitian communities. Seeing someone who looks like them and understands their culture can make a big difference. Overall, being Caribbean and Haitian has shaped my values and my passion for helping others. It has taught me to be strong, caring, and supportive. These are qualities that will guide me as I become a nurse and work to make a positive impact in people’s lives.

My inspiration to pursue an advanced degree in nursing, specifically in forensic nursing, comes from a desire to serve patients in some of the most vulnerable and often overlooked situations. Through my experiences in healthcare, particularly working in a rehabilitation facility, I have developed a strong foundation in patient care and advocacy. However, I have also become increasingly aware that there are individuals who experience trauma not only physically, but also as a result of violence, abuse, or neglect. These patients require a specialized level of care that goes beyond traditional nursing, which is what drew me to forensic nursing. Forensic nursing stands at the intersection of healthcare and the legal system, allowing nurses to care for patients while also playing a critical role in justice. What inspires me most about this field is the opportunity to support survivors of violence with compassion, dignity, and professionalism. I am passionate about being a source of comfort for patients during incredibly difficult moments, while also ensuring that their experiences are documented accurately and respectfully. This dual responsibility of providing emotional support and contributing to legal processes is what makes forensic nursing both meaningful and impactful to me. I am particularly motivated by the need for more healthcare professionals who are trained to respond to cases involving sexual assault, domestic violence, and other forms of trauma. Survivors often face barriers when seeking care, including fear, stigma, and a lack of understanding from others. As a future forensic nurse, I want to help create a safe and supportive environment where patients feel heard, believed, and empowered. My goal is to advocate for patients not only in a clinical setting, but also by ensuring their voices are represented in the legal system when appropriate. In pursuing an advanced degree, I hope to gain the specialized knowledge and skills necessary to properly assess, treat, and document injuries related to trauma. I also want to become trained in evidence collection and preservation, understanding that these details can be crucial in legal cases. Beyond technical skills, I aim to strengthen my ability to communicate with empathy and cultural sensitivity, recognizing that every patient’s experience is unique. Looking ahead, my goals in forensic nursing include working as a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) and contributing to multidisciplinary teams that support victims of violence. I also hope to be involved in community education and outreach, raising awareness about prevention, resources, and the importance of trauma-informed care. Ultimately, I want to use my role as a forensic nurse to bridge the gap between healthcare and justice, ensuring that patients receive not only the medical attention they need, but also the respect, validation, and advocacy they deserve.

My decision to pursue a degree in nursing is rooted in both my passion for helping others and my firsthand experiences in healthcare settings. Working in a rehabilitation facility has allowed me to see the impact that compassionate, patient-centered care can have on individuals during some of the most vulnerable moments in their lives. I have witnessed patients who are not only physically recovering, but also navigating emotional challenges such as fear, frustration, and uncertainty. These experiences have shown me that nursing is not just about administering treatments, but about providing comfort, reassurance, and advocacy. What draws me most to nursing is the ability to form meaningful connections while making a tangible difference in someone’s life. I value the balance between science and empathy that nursing requires. It is a field where clinical knowledge and technical skills are essential, but so is the ability to listen, understand, and respond to each patient as an individual. I am especially motivated by the opportunity to advocate for patients who may feel unheard or overlooked. In my current role, I often communicate with nurses and doctors on behalf of patients to ensure their needs are met, and this has reinforced my desire to take on a more active and knowledgeable role in patient care. In addition to my healthcare experience, my involvement on campus and my role as a peer leader have strengthened my communication and leadership skills. These experiences have taught me how to support others, work collaboratively, and guide individuals through new or challenging situations. I believe these skills will translate directly into my future career as a nurse, where teamwork and effective communication are essential for providing high-quality care. As a nurse, I hope to contribute to my community by promoting health equity and improving access to care, particularly for underserved populations. I am passionate about addressing disparities in healthcare and ensuring that all patients receive respectful, culturally competent care. I want to be someone who not only treats illness, but also educates patients and empowers them to take control of their health. Whether that means explaining treatment plans in an understandable way or connecting patients with resources, I want to make healthcare more accessible and less intimidating. Ultimately, nursing represents more than just a career path for me. It is an opportunity to serve others with compassion, advocate for those in need, and be a source of support during critical moments. Through my work as a nurse, I hope to leave a positive and lasting impact on both individual patients and the broader community.

1. Personal Inspiration for Pursuing a Career in Nursing My inspiration for pursuing a career in nursing comes from a deep desire to care for others during some of the most vulnerable moments in their lives. Through my experiences working in a rehabilitation facility, I have seen firsthand how much of a difference compassionate care can make in a patient’s recovery. While medical treatments are essential, I quickly realized that emotional support, patience, and genuine human connection are just as important. Simple acts, like listening to a patient’s concerns or advocating for their needs to other healthcare professionals, can significantly improve their overall experience and well-being. Additionally, I have always been drawn to environments where I can make a meaningful impact. Nursing allows me to combine my interest in science with my passion for helping people in a hands-on, purposeful way. I am especially motivated by the opportunity to serve diverse populations and address healthcare disparities. Being able to advocate for patients who may not feel heard or understood is something I value deeply, and it aligns with my long-term goal of becoming a healthcare professional who prioritizes equity and empathy. My leadership experiences on campus and my role as a future peer leader have also strengthened my commitment to nursing. These roles have taught me the importance of communication, teamwork, and advocacy, which are essential in healthcare settings. Ultimately, nursing is more than a career to me; it is a calling that allows me to support, uplift, and care for individuals in a meaningful and lasting way. 2. Meaning of “Human Touch” and Its Impact on Patient Care To me, the phrase “human touch” represents the compassion, empathy, and genuine connection that healthcare providers bring to their interactions with patients. It goes beyond physical contact. It is about making patients feel seen, heard, and valued as individuals rather than just as medical cases. Human touch can be expressed through small but powerful actions, such as active listening, offering reassurance, maintaining eye contact, or simply being present in a moment of need. In healthcare settings, patients often experience fear, uncertainty, and vulnerability. During these times, human touch can provide comfort and stability. For example, a nurse who takes the time to listen to a patient’s concerns or explain a procedure in a calm and understanding way can help reduce anxiety and build trust. This trust is crucial because it encourages patients to communicate openly, follow medical advice, and feel more confident in their care. Human touch also plays a significant role in improving patient outcomes. When patients feel cared for on an emotional level, they are more likely to have a positive outlook, which can contribute to faster recovery and overall satisfaction with their care. In contrast, a lack of empathy can make patients feel neglected or misunderstood, potentially affecting their willingness to engage in treatment. From my own experience working in a rehabilitation facility, I have seen how meaningful human connection can transform a patient’s day. Even when I am not directly providing medical treatment, taking the time to check in on a patient, advocate for their needs, or offer encouragement can make them feel supported and respected. These moments reinforce the idea that healing is not only physical but also emotional. As a future nurse, I believe that incorporating human touch into patient care is essential. It reminds us that healthcare is not just about treating illnesses, but about caring for people as a whole. By prioritizing empathy and connection, nurses can create a more compassionate and effective healthcare environment that truly meets the needs of their patients.

Growing up as a twin has shaped me in ways I am still learning. From the day I was born, I had someone right by my side—my sister. I love being a twin, but for a long time it felt like people only saw us as “the twins” instead of two different people. I often asked myself: Who am I outside of being a twin? That question has guided me as I’ve grown up, and it has helped me find my own path. What I discovered about myself is that I love helping people. At first, I thought teaching would be the way I could do that. I looked up to my teachers and how much they impacted their students. But when I started volunteering at a hospital, something changed. I watched the nurses, and the way they worked amazed me. They cared for patients in moments when they were scared, sick, or unsure, and they stayed calm and strong no matter what. I realized that nursing was the path that fit me best. During high school, I joined an LPN program so I could start working toward that dream. It was challenging to keep up with high school classes and nursing work at the same time, but I pushed myself because I knew it would be worth it. On August 18th, right after graduating, I passed the NCLEX and officially became a licensed practical nurse in Florida. That moment was one of the proudest in my life. What made it even harder—but also more rewarding—was that I studied for the exam while starting my first semester of college over the summer. Balancing both at once was stressful, but it taught me how to stay disciplined and manage my time. Walking out of the exam knowing I had passed showed me that I can handle pressure and keep going, even when it feels overwhelming. Now I am a freshman in college, and I’m proud to already be a practicing nurse. But I know this is only the start. My dream is to become a Forensic Nurse Practitioner and focus on helping survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence. This is important to me because it’s more than just treating patients physically—it’s about being there for them emotionally and helping them feel seen and heard. I want to be a nurse who not only helps people heal but also helps them feel safe again. My family and faith have also played a big role in who I am. As a first-generation college student, I know that my journey is bigger than myself. I want to set an example for my younger siblings so they can see that it’s possible to reach goals, even when it’s hard. My faith keeps me grounded and reminds me why I chose nursing in the first place: to serve and care for others. Looking at my journey, from being known as “one of the twins” to becoming a licensed nurse and now a college student, I see how much I’ve grown. I’ve learned discipline, strength, and the importance of following my calling. Nursing is where my passion and purpose meet, and I’m excited to keep moving forward toward the future I’ve been working so hard to build.

My name is Janelle Joseph, and I am a 17-year-old recent high school graduate. I will be attending the University of Florida this summer as I begin my journey toward earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. What sets my journey apart is that during the last two years of high school, I was part of a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program, which gave me the chance to begin my nursing career early. Starting clinicals at just 16 years old was not easy. It was nerve-wracking to begin caring for real patients, especially at such a young age. But this challenge only confirmed that I was on the right path. I had to apply to a magnet school with an LPN program back in 8th grade, and though it wasn’t my zoned school, I knew I had to take the risk. That decision changed everything for me. Without that program, I wouldn’t be where I am today. Through the LPN program, I completed clinical hours at Broward Health North. I began in January of my junior year, and I’ll admit—I was terrified at first. But by the end of the year, I grew more confident. By my senior year, patient care became second nature. I performed bed changes, bed pads, helped patients ambulate, administered medications, and even gave injections. These tasks gave me hands-on experience that many students don’t receive until college. Academically, the program also prepared me for college-level coursework. I studied anatomy, physiology, biology, and more—subjects that I’ll now revisit in greater depth. This gives me confidence going into my college classes and future clinical rotations. I’ll also be taking my NCLEX in August to become a licensed LPN, and I am confident I will pass. I've always known I wanted to help people. At one point, I thought about becoming a teacher. But I eventually realized that my passion was in healing—helping people physically and emotionally through health care. Originally, I considered a specialty in oncology, but after researching other fields, I discovered forensic nursing and knew it was the right fit for me. Forensic nursing combines health care with the legal system. I want to support victims of abuse—whether physical or sexual—by providing compassionate care and guiding them through legal processes when needed. This specialty speaks to me deeply because it allows me to be both a healer and an advocate. After earning my BSN, I plan to gain experience as an RN, and then return to school for a master's or doctorate degree to become a forensic nurse practitioner. Nursing is not just about memorizing textbooks; it’s about critical thinking, compassion, and adapting to the situation in front of you. Every patient is different, and sometimes you have to rely on instinct, knowledge, and experience to do what’s best for them—ethically and legally. This journey is far from easy, but I’ve already faced challenges that have shaped me into a stronger, more prepared future nurse. I'm ready for the next step, and I can’t wait to grow in this profession and make a difference in people’s lives.

The Power of Mentorship As I look back on my high school years, I realize that the people who helped me the most weren’t always the ones in charge—they were the ones who cared. Mentors played a big part in my growth. They helped me find confidence, guided me through tough decisions, and reminded me that I could reach my goals, even when I had doubts. Thanks to them, I’m ready for what’s next. My journey started in ninth grade, when I met Mr. Edwards, my science teacher. I was quiet and unsure of myself. High school felt like a big world, and I didn’t know where I fit in. But Mr. Edwards made me feel like I belonged. He took time to help me after class, explained things in a way I could understand, and pushed me to believe in myself. He didn’t just teach science—he taught me how to keep going even when something felt hard. That year, I started to see that I was smarter and stronger than I thought. Later on, I met another mentor, Mr. Barrow. He helped me get into the nursing program at my school. I had always been interested in helping people, but I didn’t know how to turn that into a real plan. Mr. Barrow sat down with me, helped me with my application, and encouraged me every step of the way. He believed I could do it, even when I felt nervous about taking that next step. Because of him, I joined the program and found something I truly love—caring for others. Both Mr. Edwards and Mr. Barrow made a big difference in my life. They didn’t have to go out of their way to help me, but they did. They gave me time, support, and most of all, belief. That belief made me push myself harder. It made me want to prove that I could be someone who makes a difference too. Mentorship isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about showing up, listening, and helping someone see the best in themselves. It’s about guiding without judging, and lifting someone up when they need it most. I’ve learned that mentors don’t have to be perfect—they just have to care. Now that I’ve graduated, I want to take what my mentors gave me and pass it on. Whether it’s helping a younger student get through high school, or supporting a patient as a future nurse, I want to be someone who makes others feel seen and supported. I want to be the reason someone keeps going, just like my mentors were for me. Mentors like Mr. Edwards and Mr. Barrow helped shape who I am today. They gave me the confidence to believe in my future. I’ll always be thankful for their kindness, their time, and their belief in me. Mentorship changed my life, and one day, I hope to do the same for someone else.

Growing up, I’ve been lucky to have parents who do their best to provide for me and my siblings. If there’s something I want, I know I can ask for it, and if it’s possible, they’ll try to make it happen—even if it takes time. But I also know that sometimes things just aren’t in the budget right now, and I’ve learned to be okay with that. That understanding has helped shape how I think about money and what it means to be financially responsible. I’ve never gone without the things I really needed, but I’ve learned to wait and be patient for things that aren’t urgent. For example, when I asked for something like a new phone or school supplies, sometimes it would take a while. I used to feel disappointed, but over time, I realized that it wasn’t because my parents didn’t care—it was because they were trying to manage money wisely. Watching them budget and make choices based on priorities has taught me a lot. It made me realize that being responsible with money means making decisions that may not always be easy. Now that I’m getting ready for college, financial planning has become even more important. I know that going to college is expensive, and I also know that my family can’t pay for everything. I was so grateful to get a full ride, but I still have to be careful with money since I won’t be working during the school year. I plan to take advantage of financial literacy programs and learn how to budget, save, and plan ahead so I can make smart decisions during college and beyond. In the future, I want to become a forensic nurse practitioner and help victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. A lot of the people I’ll work with may also be struggling financially, and I want to be someone who understands that and can connect them to resources. I believe that by having a strong understanding of money and how to manage it, I’ll not only be able to take care of myself but also make a difference in other people’s lives. One day, I hope to be able to help support my family too—whether that’s helping my younger siblings with school or being there for my parents as they get older. I know that financial education will help me make smarter choices so I can build a stable future and give back to the people who supported me. Overall, my personal experiences with money have taught me that you don’t always get everything right away—and that’s okay. It’s not about having everything, but about learning to plan, wait, and work toward your goals. I know that by continuing to learn about finances, I’ll be better prepared for the future I’m building for myself and others.

Becoming a nurse has been my dream since middle school, and over the years, that dream has only grown stronger. However, it wasn’t until I had the chance to experience clinicals at the hospital and practice in the lab that I realized just how much I wanted to pursue this career. Throughout my life, I’ve always been drawn to helping others, but it was these hands-on experiences that showed me the depth of my passion for nursing. Since middle school, I knew I wanted to become a nurse. I was always the person who wanted to help when someone was sick, and I found myself fascinated by how the human body works. I would spend hours reading about health and medicine, and it became clear that nursing was the right path for me. The idea of not only taking care of a patient’s physical needs but also offering comfort and support during a vulnerable time deeply resonated with me. But it wasn’t until I entered high school and began pursuing my LPN program that I started to see just how fulfilling this career could be. My first real exposure to nursing came during my clinicals at the hospital. Walking into the hospital for the first time, I felt both excited and nervous. I was eager to see how the skills I’d been learning in class translated to real-life situations. Working alongside nurses, I observed how they not only provided medical care but also made emotional connections with patients. Whether it was listening to a patient’s fears, reassuring a nervous family member, or comforting someone who was in pain, I saw how nurses played an essential role in the healing process. This experience made me realize that nursing is about more than just knowledge and technical skills—it’s about offering emotional support and making patients feel cared for on every level. Before heading into the hospital, I also had the chance to practice in the lab. In the lab, I learned essential nursing skills like taking vital signs, administering injections, and caring for patients in a controlled environment. Practicing these skills on mannequins and under the supervision of instructors gave me confidence and helped me feel ready to take on real patient care. The lab experiences were crucial in preparing me for the more hands-on work I’d eventually do at the hospital, and they reassured me that I was capable of handling the responsibilities of nursing. In addition to the technical and practical experiences I gained, I also formed meaningful friendships with other students in the program. I realized that nursing is not a profession you do alone; it requires teamwork, communication, and mutual support. My classmates and I would often share tips and advice, discuss challenging experiences, and support each other as we grew together in our nursing knowledge. These friendships helped me feel more confident in my decision to become a nurse and showed me the importance of having a strong support system within the nursing community. Looking back at my journey, from my middle school interest in nursing to my current experiences in clinicals and the lab, I can see that nursing is the path I’m meant to take. I want to be a nurse because I feel driven to help others in meaningful ways, whether it’s through physical care or emotional support. My experiences have shown me that nursing is about much more than just science and technical skills—it’s about building relationships with patients and offering comfort during their most challenging moments. I’m excited to continue my journey in nursing and to make a difference in people's lives.

Mary Eliza Mahoney: A Trailblazer in Nursing When I think of Black leaders who inspire me, Mary Eliza Mahoney is the first person that comes to mind. She was the first African American professional nurse in the United States, and her story is one of hard work, courage, and compassion. Mahoney’s determination to break barriers and help others shows that even one person can make a big difference in the world. Mary Eliza Mahoney was born in 1845, during a time when life was especially difficult for Black women. Many opportunities were closed to them because of racism and discrimination. Despite these challenges, Mahoney worked toward her dream of becoming a nurse. In 1879, she graduated from the New England Hospital for Women and Children’s nursing program. It was a tough program that only a few students finished, but she succeeded. By becoming the first Black professional nurse, Mahoney proved that African Americans could excel in healthcare even when the odds were stacked against them. Mahoney didn’t stop with her own success—she wanted to help others. In 1908, she helped start the National Association of Colored Graduate Nurses (NACGN). This group gave Black nurses a chance to connect, support each other, and fight for equality in the nursing profession. The NACGN worked to create better opportunities for Black nurses in a field that often ignored them. Mahoney also fought for women’s voting rights because she believed voting was a way to make life fairer for everyone. Her dedication to both nursing and social justice showed how much she cared about making the world a better place for all. Her story inspires me as a high school senior getting ready to start my career in nursing. As a first-generation college student and someone who wants to become a forensic nurse practitioner, I admire Mahoney’s strength and determination. Her story reminds me that success is possible, even when there are challenges. It also motivates me to think beyond my own goals and focus on helping others. Like her, I want to stand up for people who don’t always have a voice and work to make healthcare more fair and accessible. Mary Eliza Mahoney’s life proves that one person can create real change. She broke barriers and opened doors for others, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire people like me. Her courage and dedication push me to follow my dreams and make a difference in the world.

Have you ever wondered what you are meant to do in life? I often think about this, especially as I approach a major step toward becoming a nurse. Born on August 1st, 2007, I didn’t know what life had in store for me. Like most kids, my early dreams were simple. When I first thought about what I wanted to be, I always imagined myself teaching. It felt like the right choice—a way to help children while following a path that seemed clear and straightforward. But as I grew up, I realized my desire to help children reached beyond the classroom. The first time I thought about nursing, I was sitting in a doctor’s office, watching the nurses at work. I saw how much care and compassion they brought to the job. It wasn’t just about taking blood or checking vital signs. It was the way they made me feel—safe, understood, and cared for. In that moment, I knew I wanted to do for others what those nurses had done for me. Nursing offered a different way to help kids, allowing me to care for their health and well-being in a meaningful, hands-on way. In the movie Hamilton, Alexander Hamilton says: “I’m not throwing away my shot.” That line stuck with me because I don’t want to throw away mine, either. I decided to pursue my dream by joining the LPN program at my high school, giving myself a head start on the future I wanted. Now, at 17 years old, I’m in the final stretch of the program I started nearly a year ago. It hasn’t always been easy. There were times I felt overwhelmed and even considered dropping out because it seemed like too much. But every time I wanted to quit, I reminded myself why I started: to help people, especially children. That purpose kept me going, and I’m proud of how far I’ve come. Being in this program has opened many doors for me. I’ve made friends, learned valuable skills, and gained experiences that will shape my future. It’s a rare opportunity for someone my age, especially as a young woman in a field that doesn’t always get the respect it deserves. Nursing isn’t always seen as important by everyone; some people view it as just a quick way to make money. But to me, nursing is so much more than that. Nursing is my way of making a difference. It’s not about the money; it’s about being there for people when they need someone the most. It’s about using my skills and compassion to make their lives a little easier and better. For me, nursing is about pursuing a career that I love, one that many people might not have the chance to live out themselves. As I get closer to finishing my LPN program, I am more committed than ever to this path. I may be young, but I’ve found my passion, and I intend to follow it wherever it leads me. Nursing is my shot, and I’m not throwing it away.

Have you ever wondered what you are meant to do in life? I often think about this, especially as I approach a major step toward becoming a nurse. Born on August 1st, 2007, I didn’t know what life had in store for me. Like most kids, my early dreams were simple. When I first thought about what I wanted to be, I always imagined myself teaching. It felt like the right choice—a way to help children while following a path that seemed clear and straightforward. But as I grew up, I realized my desire to help children reached beyond the classroom. The first time I thought about nursing, I was sitting in a doctor’s office, watching the nurses at work. I saw how much care and compassion they brought to the job. It wasn’t just about taking blood or checking vital signs. It was the way they made me feel—safe, understood, and cared for. In that moment, I knew I wanted to do for others what those nurses had done for me. Nursing offered a different way to help kids, allowing me to care for their health and well-being in a meaningful, hands-on way. In the movie Hamilton, Alexander Hamilton says: “I’m not throwing away my shot.” That line stuck with me because I don’t want to throw away mine, either. I decided to pursue my dream by joining the LPN program at my high school, giving myself a head start on the future I wanted. Now, at 17 years old, I’m in the final stretch of the program I started nearly a year ago. It hasn’t always been easy. There were times I felt overwhelmed and even considered dropping out because it seemed like too much. But every time I wanted to quit, I reminded myself why I started: to help people, especially children. That purpose kept me going, and I’m proud of how far I’ve come. Being in this program has opened many doors for me. I’ve made friends, learned valuable skills, and gained experiences that will shape my future. It’s a rare opportunity for someone my age, especially as a young woman in a field that doesn’t always get the respect it deserves. Nursing isn’t always seen as important by everyone; some people view it as just a quick way to make money. But to me, nursing is so much more than that. Nursing is my way of making a difference. It’s not about the money; it’s about being there for people when they need someone the most. It’s about using my skills and compassion to make their lives a little easier and better. For me, nursing is about pursuing a career that I love, one that many people might not have the chance to live out themselves. As I get closer to finishing my LPN program, I am more committed than ever to this path. I may be young, but I’ve found my passion, and I intend to follow it wherever it leads me. Nursing is my shot, and I’m not throwing it away.