For as long as I can remember, I’ve wanted a career that is both challenging and actually helps people. In elementary school, I admired my teachers for helping students learn. In middle school, I took notice of the behavioral and speech therapists who helped my brother who has autism. As a freshman in high school, I struggled with my mental health but saw how psychologists helped people like me become better. Having the opportunity to attend my county vocational high school and take a health science curriculum helped me explore and consider the various possibilities. My grandma was an emergency room nurse, so we discussed what it might be like to be a nurse when I took anatomy. But my real "aha" moment arrived when my high school classmates and I took a field trip to the busiest Level 1 Trauma Center in New Jersey. That day we saw how the lives of severely injured patients are saved by highly skilled doctors and nurses using the latest technology and equipment at this specialized trauma facility. From the resuscitation room located on the helipad to the trauma center operating rooms, the tour filled me with excitement because I knew from that moment that my true vocation had been determined. I am going to be a trauma nurse. Now that I’ve started my nursing studies in college, I have a clear goal for my future. For me, this is more than just a job; it’s a path that will push me to be my best so I can provide top-notch care when people are in their most critical moments. I’m drawn to trauma care because I am fascinated by the quick thinking needed to save a life when every second counts. An emergency room in a major trauma center is an intense environment where your knowledge, skills, and ability to stay calm are constantly tested. I want to be a steady presence in the middle of that chaos, not only giving medical help but also being a source of comfort for patients and their families on what might be the worst day of their lives. I want to be the nurse who can confidently place an IV, manage the right medications, and assist in life-saving procedures, all while working smoothly with the rest of the medical team. This role is on the front lines of nursing, and I’m excited to build the toughness and skills it requires. My long-term goal is to take my critical care capabilities to the sky as a flight nurse. To me, flight nursing is the peak of what a nurse can do in emergency medicine. Being able to bring an entire ICU's worth of care to a patient in a hard-to-reach place is an incredible responsibility that I hope to earn one day. This role demands an even higher level of expertise, mixing the skills of an ICU and ER nurse with the challenge of treating critically injured patients in a small, high-stress helicopter with limited resources. It seems like the ultimate test of a nurse's ability to think for themselves and perform under pressure. I want my contribution and positive impact to others to be measured in lives saved. I can’t think of a better way to honor my grandmother’s legacy in emergency nursing and help people in my community. Outside of nursing, I'm passionate about dance. Since the age of three, I've performed on the stage in recitals, ballet shows like The Nutcracker and even in national level dance competitions. I’ve learned so many lessons throughout my sixteen years of dancing, not just about being a good dancer, but about being a good person. After all, being a dancer isn’t just about being able to jump or turn. Being a dancer is about carrying yourself with confidence, consistently giving your all, taking responsibility for yourself, having resilience and motivation, leading with grace and poise, and most importantly, embracing the roles and opportunities that are presented to you. All of my strength, resilience and determination that I learned as a dancer I now apply to becoming the best nurse I can be. I’ll have to juggle keeping up with all of my college classes and clinical rotations while working part-time, but the challenge drives me to succeed. I will become an RN, I will work in the ER and, later, as part of the trauma team, I will help people in their most critical moments. My new stage awaits.

For as long as I can remember, I’ve wanted a career that is both challenging and actually helps people. In elementary school, I admired my teachers for helping students learn. This wasn’t too difficult for me because my mother taught elementary special education at the time and now leads the special education department across a four school district. Her dinner-time stories about helping K-6th grade special needs students inspired me to ask for my own chalk board mounted on the basement wall, so that I could “teach” my friends when they came over to play. Later, in middle school, I took notice of the behavioral and speech therapists who helped my brother who has autism. They taught him how to cope with and even overcome some of the challenges of his disability. Then, as a freshman in high school, I struggled with my mental health but saw how psychologists helped people like me become better. It was around this time that I realized that the common thread in all of the jobs that I thought I might like to do was that they all helped people. Ultimately, having the opportunity to attend my county vocational high school and take a health science curriculum helped me explore and consider the various possibilities in the medical field. Many of my instructors were current or former medical professionals. When I took an anatomy class from a former nurse, she regaled us with stories of her time working as a nurse in a hospital setting. I was enthralled and began to think about nursing as a college major and future career. I talked to my grandmother about it several times on the phone as she was an emergency room nurse in the time of the starched white uniforms of the 1960’s through the modern day scrubs. But my real "aha" moment arrived when my high school classmates and I took a field trip to one of the largest hospitals in New Jersey. We toured every department, from the ER to the surgical operating rooms. We talked to doctors, nurses and technicians throughout the day about what it takes to provide medical care to those in need. I was hooked. From that day forward, my mission has been to become a registered nurse, and perhaps, down the road, a nurse practitioner when I can continue my education. Now that I’ve started my nursing studies in college, I know that I have chosen the right goal for my future. I’m not sure yet which specialty area I might like to practice in, but I’m looking forward to my clinical rotation classes to help me decide. For me, becoming a registered nurse is more than just a job; it’s a path that will push me to be my best so I can provide top-notch care when people are in their most critical moments. I can’t think of a better way to honor my grandmother’s legacy in nursing and help people in my community.

During one of the most difficult periods of my life, I found myself withdrawing from everything that once brought me joy, such as school, friendships, and even dance, which had always been my creative outlet and sanctuary. I was struggling with a deep depression that made it hard to even get out of bed, let alone show up in the world as my full self. When I eventually began to reengage with life, I felt like I was stepping back into spaces where I no longer belonged. I was surrounded by people who had moved on and withdrawn from me while I had been lost in the shadows. It was isolating and terrifying. But something unexpected happened. Older dancers, who I had admired from a distance but never truly known, began to reach out to me. They welcomed me back into the dance studio with genuine compassion that I had not experienced from my dance peers before. They didn’t pepper me with questions about where I had been or why I had changed. Instead, they chose to meet me where I was, without judgment or expectation, a true demonstration of kindness. They invited me to rehearse with them, to sit with them, to laugh with them. Their compassion was quiet but powerful. It was in the way they noticed if I looked overwhelmed and offered to take a break from the music and the movement, sitting quietly without needing words. It was in the way they cheered me on when I dared to take center stage again. It was in the way they consistently included me, day after day, until I began to believe that maybe I did belong. That experience was life-changing. These dancers didn’t have to extend themselves to me. We weren’t close before my absence, and yet they made the choice to treat me kindly, with empathy I so desperately needed. Their compassion helped chip away at the wall I had built around myself. It allowed me to begin healing and rediscovering the version of myself that had been lost. In their actions, they conveyed something I couldn’t yet believe for myself. They taught me that I had worth, that I mattered, and that I wasn’t alone. This compassionate environment helped me form friendships that would become deeply meaningful and long-lasting. These weren’t just dance partners. They became some of my closest friends, people who saw me at my most vulnerable and chose to walk alongside me anyway. Their kindness gave me the courage to not only keep going but to thrive. That time taught me how powerful compassion can be. It doesn’t need to be loud or grand. Sometimes, it’s as simple as making space for someone who feels invisible. I carry that lesson with me now, doing my best to extend the same grace to others that was once so generously given to me. As I have moved forward with my dance and school journey, I have drawn from the compassion my friends showed me to reach out to younger dancers who have experienced their own troubles. Compassion has had a profound impact on the direction of my life; wanting to pay it forward has become my compass. It led me to my summer job for the last four years as a caring lifeguard and it has solidified my goal to give back to my community by becoming a trauma nurse. I feel confident that the compassion I have developed from my friends and through my experiences with younger people, has equipped me to extend it to the patients and families for whom I will care for as a nurse. I’m drawn to trauma care because I am fascinated by the quick thinking needed to save a life when every second counts. An emergency room in a major trauma center is an intense environment where your knowledge, skills, and ability to stay calm are constantly tested. I want to be a steady presence in the middle of that chaos, not only giving medical help but also being a source of comfort and compassion for patients and their families on what might be the worst day of their lives. I want to be the nurse who can confidently place an IV, manage the right medications, and assist in life-saving procedures, all while working smoothly with the entire medical team. This role is on the front lines of nursing, and I’m excited to build the toughness and skills it requires. I want my contribution and positive impact to others to be measured in lives saved. I can’t think of a better way to help people in my community and can’t wait to get started.

For as long as I can remember, I’ve wanted a career that is both challenging and actually helps people. In elementary school, I admired my teachers for helping students learn. In middle school, I took notice of the behavioral and speech therapists who helped my brother who has autism. As a freshman in high school, I struggled with my mental health but saw how psychologists helped people like me become better. Having the opportunity to attend my county vocational high school and take a health science curriculum helped me explore and consider the various possibilities. My grandmother was an emergency room nurse, so we discussed what it might be like to be a nurse when I took anatomy. But my real "aha" moment arrived when my high school classmates and I took a field trip to the busiest Level 1 Trauma Center in New Jersey. That day we saw how the lives of severely injured patients are saved by highly skilled doctors and nurses using the latest technology and equipment at this specialized trauma facility. From the resuscitation room located on the helipad to the trauma center operating rooms, the tour filled me with excitement because I knew from that moment that my true vocation had been determined. I am going to be a trauma nurse. Now that I’ve started my nursing studies in college, I have a clear and ambitious goal for my future. For me, this is more than just a job; it’s a path that will push me to be my best so I can provide top-notch care when people are in their most critical moments. My immediate goal is to give back to my community by becoming a trauma nurse in a Level I trauma center, and my ultimate dream is to work as a flight nurse on a medical helicopter. I’m drawn to trauma care because I am fascinated by the quick thinking needed to save a life when every second counts. An emergency room in a major trauma center is an intense environment where your knowledge, skills, and ability to stay calm are constantly tested. I want to be a steady presence in the middle of that chaos, not only giving medical help but also being a source of comfort for patients and their families on what might be the worst day of their lives. I want to be the nurse who can confidently place an IV, manage the right medications, and assist in life-saving procedures, all while working smoothly with the entire medical team. This role is on the front lines of nursing, and I’m excited to build the toughness and skills it requires. My ambition doesn't stop at the ER doors, though. My long-term goal is to take my critical care skills to the sky as a flight nurse. To me, flight nursing is the peak of what a nurse can do in emergency medicine. Being able to bring an entire ICU's worth of care to a patient in a hard-to-reach place is an incredible responsibility that I hope to earn one day. This role demands an even higher level of expertise, mixing the skills of an ICU and ER nurse with the challenge of treating critically injured patients in a small, high-stress helicopter with limited resources. It seems like the ultimate test of a nurse's ability to think for themselves and perform under pressure. I want my contribution and positive impact to others to be measured in lives saved. I can’t think of a better way to honor my grandmother’s legacy in emergency nursing and help people in my community.

For as long as I can remember, I’ve wanted to build a career that is both challenging and actually helps people. In elementary school, I admired my teachers for helping students learn. In middle school, I took notice of the behavioral and speech therapists who helped my brother who has autism. As a freshman in high school, I struggled with my mental health but saw how psychologists helped people like me become better. Having the opportunity to attend my county vocational high school and take a health science curriculum helped me explore and consider the various possibilities. My grandma was an emergency room nurse, and we discussed what it might be like to be a nurse when I took anatomy and physiology classes. But my real "aha" moment arrived when my high school classmates and I took a field trip to the busiest Level 1 Trauma Center in New Jersey. That day we saw how the lives of severely injured patients are saved by highly skilled doctors and nurses using the latest technology and equipment at this specialized trauma facility. From the resuscitation room located on the helipad to the trauma center operating rooms, the tour filled me with excitement because I knew from that moment that my true vocation had been determined. I am going to be a trauma nurse. Now that I’ve started my nursing studies in college, I have a clear and ambitious goal for my future. For me, this is more than just a job; it’s a path that will push me to be my best so I can provide top-notch care when people are in their most critical moments. My immediate goal is to give back to my community by becoming a trauma nurse in a Level I trauma center, and my ultimate dream is to work as a flight nurse on a medical helicopter. I’m drawn to trauma care because I am fascinated by the quick thinking needed to save a life when every second counts. An emergency room in a major trauma center is an intense environment where your knowledge, skills, and ability to stay calm are constantly tested. I want to be a steady presence in the middle of that chaos, not only giving medical help but also being a source of comfort for patients and their families on what might be the worst day of their lives. I want to be the nurse who can confidently place an IV, manage the right medications, and assist in life-saving procedures, all while working smoothly with the rest of the medical team. This role is on the front lines of nursing, and I’m excited to build the toughness and skills it requires. I want my contribution and positive impact to others to be measured in lives saved. I can’t think of a better way to honor my grandmother’s legacy in emergency nursing, help people in my community and make a difference in the world.

For as long as I can remember, I’ve wanted a career that is both challenging and actually helps people. In elementary school, I admired my teachers for helping students learn. In middle school, I took notice of the behavioral and speech therapists who helped my brother who has autism. As a freshman in high school, I struggled with my mental health but saw how psychologists helped people like me become better. Having the opportunity to attend my county vocational high school and take a health science curriculum helped me explore and consider the various possibilities. My grandma was an emergency room nurse, and we discussed what it might be like to be a nurse when I took anatomy and physiology classes. But my real "aha" moment arrived when my high school classmates and I took a field trip to the busiest Level 1 Trauma Center in New Jersey. That day we saw how the lives of severely injured patients are saved by highly skilled doctors and nurses using the latest technology and equipment at this specialized trauma facility. From the resuscitation room located on the helipad to the trauma center operating rooms, the tour filled me with excitement because I knew from that moment that my true vocation had been determined. I am going to be a trauma nurse. Now that I’ve started my nursing studies in college, I have a clear and ambitious goal for my future. For me, this is more than just a job; it’s a path that will push me to be my best so I can provide top-notch care when people are in their most critical moments. My immediate goal is to give back to my community by becoming a trauma nurse in a Level I trauma center, and my ultimate dream is to work as a flight nurse on a medical helicopter. I’m drawn to trauma care because I am fascinated by the quick thinking needed to save a life when every second counts. An emergency room in a major trauma center is an intense environment where your knowledge, skills, and ability to stay calm are constantly tested. I want to be a steady presence in the middle of that chaos, not only giving medical help but also being a source of comfort for patients and their families on what might be the worst day of their lives. I want to be the nurse who can confidently place an IV, manage the right medications, and assist in life-saving procedures, all while working smoothly with the rest of the medical team. This role is on the front lines of nursing, and I’m excited to build the toughness and skills it requires. My long-term ambition is to take my critical care skills to the sky as a flight nurse. To me, flight nursing is the peak of what a nurse can do in emergency medicine. Being able to bring an entire ICU's worth of care to a patient in a hard-to-reach place is an incredible responsibility that I hope to earn one day. This role demands an even higher level of expertise, mixing the skills of an ICU and ER nurse with the challenge of treating critically injured patients in a small, high-stress helicopter with limited resources. It seems like the ultimate test of a nurse's ability to think for themselves and perform under pressure. I want my contribution and positive impact to others to be measured in lives saved. I can’t think of a better way to honor my grandmother’s legacy in emergency nursing and help people in my community.

For as long as I can remember, I’ve wanted a career that is both challenging and actually helps people. In elementary school, I admired my teachers for helping students learn. In middle school, I took notice of the behavioral and speech therapists who helped my brother who has autism. As a freshman in high school, I struggled with my mental health but saw how psychologists helped people like me become better. Having the opportunity to attend my county vocational high school and take a health science curriculum helped me explore and consider the various possibilities. My grandmother was an emergency room nurse, so we discussed what it might be like to be a nurse when I took anatomy. But my real "aha" moment arrived when my high school classmates and I took a field trip to the busiest Level 1 Trauma Center in New Jersey. That day we saw how the lives of severely injured patients are saved by highly skilled doctors and nurses using the latest technology and equipment at this specialized trauma facility. From the resuscitation room located on the helipad to the trauma center operating rooms, the tour filled me with excitement because I knew from that moment that my true vocation had been determined. I am going to be a trauma nurse. Now that I’ve started my nursing studies in college, I have a clear and ambitious goal for my future. For me, this is more than just a job; it’s a path that will push me to be my best so I can provide top-notch care when people are in their most critical moments. My immediate goal is to give back to my community by becoming a trauma nurse in a Level I trauma center, and my ultimate dream is to work as a flight nurse on a medical helicopter. I’m drawn to trauma care because I am fascinated by the quick thinking needed to save a life when every second counts. An emergency room in a major trauma center is an intense environment where your knowledge, skills, and ability to stay calm are constantly tested. I want to be a steady presence in the middle of that chaos, not only giving medical help but also being a source of comfort for patients and their families on what might be the worst day of their lives. I want to be the nurse who can confidently place an IV, manage the right medications, and assist in life-saving procedures, all while working smoothly with the entire medical team. This role is on the front lines of nursing, and I’m excited to build the toughness and skills it requires. My ambition doesn't stop at the ER doors, though. My long-term goal is to take my critical care skills to the sky as a flight nurse. To me, flight nursing is the peak of what a nurse can do in emergency medicine. Being able to bring an entire ICU's worth of care to a patient in a hard-to-reach place is an incredible responsibility that I hope to earn one day. This role demands an even higher level of expertise, mixing the skills of an ICU and ER nurse with the challenge of treating critically injured patients in a small, high-stress helicopter with limited resources. It seems like the ultimate test of a nurse's ability to think for themselves and perform under pressure. I want my contribution and positive impact to others to be measured in lives saved. I can’t think of a better way to honor my grandmother’s legacy in emergency nursing and help people in my community.

For as long as I can remember, I’ve wanted a career that is both challenging and actually helps people. In elementary school, I admired my teachers for helping students learn. In middle school, I took notice of the behavioral and speech therapists who helped my brother who has autism. As a freshman in high school, I struggled with my mental health but saw how psychologists helped people like me become better. Having the opportunity to attend my county vocational high school and take a health science curriculum helped me explore and consider the various possibilities. My grandmother was an emergency room nurse, so we discussed what it might be like to be a nurse when I took anatomy. But my real "aha" moment arrived when my high school classmates and I took a field trip to the busiest Level 1 Trauma Center in New Jersey. That day we saw how the lives of severely injured patients are saved by highly skilled doctors and nurses using the latest technology and equipment at this specialized trauma facility. From the resuscitation room located on the helipad to the trauma center operating rooms, the tour filled me with excitement because I knew from that moment that my true vocation had been determined. I am going to be a trauma nurse. Now that I’ve started my nursing studies in college, I have a clear and ambitious goal for my future. For me, this is more than just a job; it’s a path that will push me to be my best so I can provide top-notch care when people are in their most critical moments. My immediate goal is to give back to my community by becoming a trauma nurse in a Level I trauma center, and my ultimate dream is to work as a flight nurse on a medical helicopter. I’m drawn to trauma care because I am fascinated by the quick thinking needed to save a life when every second counts. An emergency room in a major trauma center is an intense environment where your knowledge, skills, and ability to stay calm are constantly tested. I want to be a steady presence in the middle of that chaos, not only giving medical help but also being a source of comfort for patients and their families on what might be the worst day of their lives. I want to be the nurse who can confidently place an IV, manage the right medications, and assist in life-saving procedures, all while working smoothly with the entire medical team. This role is on the front lines of nursing, and I’m excited to build the toughness and skills it requires. My ambition doesn't stop at the ER doors, though. My long-term goal is to take my critical care skills to the sky as a flight nurse. To me, flight nursing is the peak of what a nurse can do in emergency medicine. Being able to bring an entire ICU's worth of care to a patient in a hard-to-reach place is an incredible responsibility that I hope to earn one day. This role demands an even higher level of expertise, mixing the skills of an ICU and ER nurse with the challenge of treating critically injured patients in a small, high-stress helicopter with limited resources. It seems like the ultimate test of a nurse's ability to think for themselves and perform under pressure. I want my contribution and positive impact to others to be measured in lives saved. I can’t think of a better way to honor my grandmother’s legacy in emergency nursing and help people in my community.

Standing on the cusp of a new chapter, I find myself reflecting on the experiences that have shaped me and the aspirations that now guide my path. At eighteen, my life has been a blend of rigorous dedication to both the arts and sciences, fueled by a deep commitment to serving others in my community. While this service has helped others, it has defined the type of person I aspire to be. For sixteen years, dance has been my sport and the unwavering constant in my life, primarily ballet. It’s more than just a sport; it’s a discipline that has taught me perseverance, grace under pressure, the importance of meticulous practice and the ability to rise to the occasion in a stage show or competition. Dedicating 30 hours a week to classes and rehearsals, the dance studio has become my community. Over the years it has provided me with friends from among the dancers on my level, mentors from among the older dancers who took the time to show me how to perform, coaches from among the instructors that taught me and people who cared not just about how I danced but about me as a person. Through my dance community, I felt a true sense of belonging. Along the way, I learned that I did not just want to be the recipient of what the community had to offer, but to be a provider in the community and pay forward all of the kindness, mentoring, instruction and caring that I had received. For the last seven years, I've served as a volunteer teacher's assistant at my dance studio. This role, while seemingly small, has been incredibly rewarding and purposeful. It’s given me the opportunity to mentor younger dancers, help them understand complex choreography, and foster their love for ballet. Giving back just some of what had been given to me has been tremendously fulfilling. It’s taught me that service is as much about one’s self as it is about those you serve. Beyond the studio, my involvement in numerous philanthropic events throughout high school has also been a significant part of my life. From organizing clothing to supporting students with special education needs to running food drives that directly benefited local families in need to coordinating blood drives, I've seen firsthand the tangible impact that collective effort can have on a community. These initiatives, particularly the blood drives, exposed me to critical aspects of public health and the urgent need for medical resources, reinforcing my desire to contribute. These experiences taught me patience, communication, and the joy of seeing others grow, all of which made me realize that my passion is in helping others. Not only did it lead me to become a lifeguard as my summer job for the last three years, but it opened my eyes to my true calling and vocation, to help others in their most critical moments of need as a trauma nurse. For me, the importance of serving others cannot be understated. In a world full of distractions, it has become my compass to help guide me through this stage of life. Combined with my discipline from dance and my academic background in health sciences, my unwavering commitment to serving my community has prepared me to face the new challenges ahead in nursing school. My service to my community in the important work of healthcare is just getting started.

My grandmother’s legacy as a nurse is not a story of grand gestures or dramatic rescues, but a quiet, enduring testament to the power of compassion and dedication. Growing up, I heard my father tell stories about how my grandmother worked as an emergency room nurse at the local hospital. Her career spanned the age of the starched white uniforms of the 1960s to the modern scrubs of the new millennium. She was a nurse to both the hospital patients as well as to the neighborhood community whenever and wherever needed. She served in the role to help others, no matter the time or the place. When I had the opportunity to choose to study a Health Science curriculum at my county-wide vocational high school, I thought about the possibility of following in my grandmother’s footsteps and one day working in a health profession. But my real "aha" moment arrived when my classmates and I took a field trip to the busiest Level 1 Trauma Center in New Jersey. That day we saw how the lives of severely injured patients are saved by highly skilled doctors and nurses using the latest technology and equipment at this specialized trauma facility. From the resuscitation room located on the helipad to the trauma center operating rooms, the tour filled me with excitement because I knew from that moment that my true vocation had been determined. Like my grandmother, I want to work in emergency nursing. After the field trip, I came home and told my father how excited I was to discover my passion for emergency medicine and specifically trauma nursing. He was happy for me and said that grandma would be proud. He told me that when he was 9 or 10 years old, he and grandma were first on the scene of a major auto accident. My father said that grandma jumped out, told him to stay in the car and sprinted over to help the car accident victims. He watched through the car window as his mother checked for vital signs and then began performing CPR on one of them as he could hear the ambulance siren getting closer in the distance. When the paramedics arrived, they took over lifesaving efforts but grandma continued to help by providing medical aid to the other victims until the fire trucks arrived. My father said that he witnessed his mother’s training and action help save a life that day and that he never forgot it. My grandmother’s career exemplified service above self, a principle that resonates deeply with my own values. I realized that nursing would provide a unique opportunity to channel my desire to help others into a tangible, impactful vocation. The thought of providing comfort and care during some of the most vulnerable moments in a person's life, just as my grandmother did, gives me a strong sense of purpose. In choosing to pursue nursing, I am not just selecting a career path; I am choosing to carry forward the torch of my grandmother's legacy. I aim to embody her blend of clinical skill and heartfelt empathy. Her life has taught me that the true measure of a nurse's success is not just in the number of patients treated, but in the quality of the care and the lasting difference made in their lives. The field of nursing has evolved dramatically since her time, but the core need for compassionate, skilled individuals remains unchanged. I am ready to answer that call, inspired by the remarkable woman who showed me the nobility and profound satisfaction of a life dedicated to healing.

During one of the most difficult periods of my life, I found myself withdrawing from everything that once brought me joy, such as school, friendships, and even dance, which had always been my creative outlet and sanctuary. I was struggling with a deep depression that made it hard to even get out of bed, let alone show up in the world as my full self. When I eventually began to reengage with life, I felt like I was stepping back into spaces where I no longer belonged. I was surrounded by people who had moved on and withdrawn from me while I had been lost in the shadows. It was isolating and terrifying. But something unexpected happened. Older dancers, who I had admired from a distance but never truly known, began to reach out to me. They welcomed me back into the studio with genuine compassion that I had not experienced from peers before. They didn’t pepper me with questions about where I had been or why I had changed. Instead, they chose to meet me where I was, without judgment or expectation, a true demonstration of kindness. They invited me to rehearse with them, to sit with them, to laugh with them. Their compassion was quiet but powerful. It was in the way they noticed if I looked overwhelmed and offered to take a break from the music and the movement, sitting quietly without needing words. It was in the way they cheered me on when I dared to take center stage again. It was in the way they consistently included me, day after day, until I began to believe that maybe I did belong. That experience was life-changing. These dancers didn’t have to extend themselves to me. We weren’t close before my absence, and yet they made the choice to treat me kindly, with empathy I so desperately needed. Their compassion helped chip away at the wall I had built around myself. It allowed me to begin healing and rediscovering the version of myself that had been lost. In their actions, they conveyed something I couldn’t yet believe for myself. They taught me that I had worth, that I mattered, and that I wasn’t alone. This compassionate environment helped me form friendships that would become deeply meaningful and long-lasting. These weren’t just dance partners. They became some of my closest friends, people who saw me at my most vulnerable and chose to walk alongside me anyway. Their kindness gave me the courage to not only keep going but to thrive. That time taught me how powerful compassion can be. It doesn’t need to be loud or grand. Sometimes, it’s as simple as making space for someone who feels invisible. I carry that lesson with me now, doing my best to extend the same grace to others that was once so generously given to me. As I have moved forward with my dance and school journey, I have drawn from the empathy and compassion my friends showed me to reach out to younger dancers who have experienced their own troubles. Empathy has had a profound impact on the direction of my life; wanting to pay it forward has become my compass. It led me to become a caring lifeguard and solidified my goal to be a trauma nurse. I feel confident that the compassion I have developed from my friends and through my experiences with younger people, has equipped me to extend it to the patients and families for whom I will care for as a nurse. As much as I enjoy the science-based classes in my studies, I know the real reason I want to become a nurse is to give back to my community and help serve others. I can’t wait to get started.

Standing on the cusp of a new chapter, I find myself reflecting on the experiences that have shaped me and the aspirations that now guide my path. At eighteen, my life has been a blend of rigorous dedication to both the arts and sciences, fueled by a deep commitment to serving others in my community. While this service has helped others, it has defined the type of person I aspire to be. For sixteen years, dance has been the unwavering constant in my life, primarily ballet. It’s more than just a sport; it’s a discipline that has taught me perseverance, grace under pressure, the importance of meticulous practice and the ability to rise to the occasion in a stage show or competition. Dedicating 30 hours a week to classes and rehearsals, the dance studio has become my community. Over the years it has provided me with friends from among the dancers on my level, mentors from among the older dancers who took the time to show me how to perform, coaches from among the instructors that taught me and people who cared not just about how I danced but about me as a person. Through my dance community, I felt a true sense of belonging. Along the way, I learned that I did not just want to be the recipient of what the community had to offer, but to be a provider in the community and pay forward all of the kindness, mentoring, instruction and caring that I had received. For the last seven years, I've served as a volunteer teacher's assistant at my dance studio. This role, while seemingly small, has been incredibly rewarding and purposeful. It’s given me the opportunity to mentor younger dancers, help them understand complex choreography, and foster their love for ballet. Giving back just some of what had been given to me has been tremendously fulfilling. It’s taught me that service is as much about one’s self as it is about those you serve. Beyond the studio, my involvement in numerous philanthropic events throughout high school has also been a significant part of my life. From organizing clothing to supporting students with special education needs to running food drives that directly benefited local families in need to coordinating blood drives, I've seen firsthand the tangible impact that collective effort can have on a community. These initiatives, particularly the blood drives, exposed me to critical aspects of public health and the urgent need for medical resources, reinforcing my desire to contribute. These experiences taught me patience, communication, and the joy of seeing others grow, all of which made me realize that my passion is in helping others. Not only did it lead me to become a lifeguard as my summer job for the last three years, but it opened my eyes to my true calling and vocation, to help others in their most critical moments of need as a trauma nurse. For me, the importance of serving others cannot be understated. In a world full of distractions, it has become my compass to help guide me through this stage of life. Combined with my discipline from dance and my academic background in health sciences, my unwavering commitment to serving my community has prepared me to face the new challenges ahead in nursing school. My service to my community in the important work of healthcare is just getting started.

For as long as I can remember, I’ve wanted a career that is both challenging and actually helps people. In elementary school, I admired my teachers for helping students learn. In middle school, I took notice of the behavioral and speech therapists who helped my brother who has autism. As a freshman in high school, I struggled with my mental health but saw how psychologists helped people like me become better. Having the opportunity to attend my county vocational high school and take a health science curriculum helped me explore and consider the various possibilities. My grandma was an emergency room nurse, and we discussed what it might be like to be a nurse when I took anatomy and physiology classes. But my real "aha" moment arrived when my high school classmates and I took a field trip to the busiest Level 1 Trauma Center in New Jersey. That day we saw how the lives of severely injured patients are saved by highly skilled doctors and nurses using the latest technology and equipment at this specialized trauma facility. From the resuscitation room located on the helipad to the trauma center operating rooms, the tour filled me with excitement because I knew from that moment that my true vocation had been determined. I am going to be a trauma nurse. Now that I’ve started my nursing studies in college, I have a clear and ambitious goal for my future. For me, this is more than just a job; it’s a path that will push me to be my best so I can provide top-notch care when people are in their most critical moments. My immediate goal is to give back to my community by becoming a trauma nurse in a Level I trauma center, and my ultimate dream is to work as a flight nurse on a medical helicopter. I’m drawn to trauma care because I am fascinated by the quick thinking needed to save a life when every second counts. An emergency room in a major trauma center is an intense environment where your knowledge, skills, and ability to stay calm are constantly tested. I want to be a steady presence in the middle of that chaos, not only giving medical help but also being a source of comfort for patients and their families on what might be the worst day of their lives. I want to be the nurse who can confidently place an IV, manage the right medications, and assist in life-saving procedures, all while working smoothly with the rest of the medical team. This role is on the front lines of nursing, and I’m excited to build the toughness and skills it requires. My long-term ambition is to take my critical care skills to the sky as a flight nurse. To me, flight nursing is the peak of what a nurse can do in emergency medicine. Being able to bring an entire ICU's worth of care to a patient in a hard-to-reach place is an incredible responsibility that I hope to earn one day. This role demands an even higher level of expertise, mixing the skills of an ICU and ER nurse with the challenge of treating critically injured patients in a small, high-stress helicopter with limited resources. It seems like the ultimate test of a nurse's ability to think for themselves and perform under pressure. I want my contribution and positive impact to others to be measured in lives saved. I can’t think of a better way to honor my grandmother’s legacy of nursing excellence in the emergency room and to help people in my community.

For as long as I can remember, I’ve wanted a career that is both challenging and actually helps people. In elementary school, I admired my teachers for helping students learn. In middle school, I took notice of the behavioral and speech therapists who helped my brother who has autism. As a freshman in high school, I struggled with my mental health but saw how psychologists helped people like me become better. Having the opportunity to attend my county vocational high school and take a health science curriculum helped me explore and consider the various possibilities. My grandma was an emergency room nurse, and we discussed what it might be like to be a nurse when I took anatomy and physiology classes. But my real "aha" moment arrived when my high school classmates and I took a field trip to the busiest Level 1 Trauma Center in New Jersey. That day we saw how the lives of severely injured patients are saved by highly skilled doctors and nurses using the latest technology and equipment at this specialized trauma facility. From the resuscitation room located on the helipad to the trauma center operating rooms, the tour filled me with excitement because I knew from that moment that my true vocation had been determined. I am going to be a trauma nurse. Now that I’ve started my nursing studies in college, I have a clear and ambitious goal for my future. For me, this is more than just a job; it’s a path that will push me to be my best so I can provide top-notch care when people are in their most critical moments. My immediate goal is to give back to my community by becoming a trauma nurse in a Level I trauma center, and my ultimate dream is to work as a flight nurse on a medical helicopter. I’m drawn to trauma care because I am fascinated by the quick thinking needed to save a life when every second counts. An emergency room in a major trauma center is an intense environment where your knowledge, skills, and ability to stay calm are constantly tested. I want to be a steady presence in the middle of that chaos, not only giving medical help but also being a source of comfort for patients and their families on what might be the worst day of their lives. I want to be the nurse who can confidently place an IV, manage the right medications, and assist in life-saving procedures, all while working smoothly with the rest of the medical team. This role is on the front lines of nursing, and I’m excited to build the toughness and skills it requires. My long-term ambition is to take my critical care skills to the sky as a flight nurse. To me, flight nursing is the peak of what a nurse can do in emergency medicine. Being able to bring an entire ICU's worth of care to a patient in a hard-to-reach place is an incredible responsibility that I hope to earn one day. This role demands an even higher level of expertise, mixing the skills of an ICU and ER nurse with the challenge of treating critically injured patients in a small, high-stress helicopter with limited resources. It seems like the ultimate test of a nurse's ability to think for themselves and perform under pressure. I want my contribution and positive impact to others to be measured in lives saved. I can’t think of a better way to honor my grandmother’s legacy in emergency nursing and help people in my community.

When I was little, I didn’t quite know how to answer the age-old question: “What do you want to be when you grow up?” It was a confusing question, back when my days were consumed with Dora the Explorer and preschool playdates. I didn’t have ambitions to be an astronaut, pirate, cowboy, or princess, like my classmates did. But what I did know for sure is that I wanted to be like the grown-ups that I looked up to. In elementary school, I admired my teachers and had an innate love for learning. I dreamed of one day having my own classroom and teaching the next generation. So, when asked, I would answer, “I want to be a teacher.” As I grew older, I took notice of the people who worked with my brother, who happens to have autism, and their gentle patience and true passion for their work. I considered what it would be like to be a special education teacher, or a speech therapist, and help kids like my brother gain their own independence. I changed my answer to, “I want to work with kids with disabilities.” In middle school, I started to struggle with my mental health and began to meet with different types of mental health professionals. The impactful work that they do prompted me to look into the field of psychology, and what makes people tick. I started high school at my local vocational school enrolled in the health sciences program, planning to major in psychology in college and become a licensed counselor with my own practice. But as I dove into my science-based classes, I started to really explore what it’s like to work in healthcare. I found myself loving college level classes about nutrition, or biomedical ethics. My anatomy class became my favorite of the day, despite the overwhelming course load. One of my teachers told stories of her days as a NICU nurse and an ED nurse, and I reveled in those experiences, asking her question after question about what her job was really like, the good and the bad. And slowly, I began to picture myself in that role. Could I be a nurse? Could that be something I would want to do? Prompted by my teachers, I started to research a career in nursing. I always thought that I would be a doctor if I decided to go into healthcare, but the more I learned about nursing, the more it began to appeal to me. I’m a people person, and nursing gives me the opportunity to make those meaningful connections with my future patients. After all, the common thread between all the things I’ve ever wanted to be is clear - I’ve always wanted to help people. Cliche as it is, I’ve realized that helping others is my calling in life, and what better way is there to do that than to take care of struggling souls in their lowest moments and impact their lives for years to come? But my real "aha" moment arrived when my classmates and I took a field trip to the busiest Level 1 Trauma Center in New Jersey. That day we saw how the lives of severely injured patients are saved by highly skilled doctors and nurses using the latest technology and equipment at this specialized trauma facility. From the resuscitation room located on the helipad to the trauma center operating rooms, the tour filled me with excitement because I knew from that moment that my true vocation had been determined. I am going to be a trauma nurse. I can’t wait to start.

When I was little, I didn’t quite know how to answer the age-old question: “What do you want to be when you grow up?” It was a confusing question, back when my days were consumed with Dora the Explorer and preschool playdates. I didn’t have ambitions to be an astronaut, pirate, cowboy, or princess, like my classmates did. But what I did know for sure is that I wanted to be like the grown-ups that I looked up to. In elementary school, I admired my teachers and had an innate love for learning. I dreamed of one day having my own classroom and teaching the next generation. So, when asked, I would answer, “I want to be a teacher.” As I grew older, I took notice of the people who worked with my brother, who happens to have autism, and their gentle patience and true passion for their work. I considered what it would be like to be a special education teacher, or a speech therapist, and help kids like my brother gain their own independence. I changed my answer to, “I want to work with kids with disabilities.” In middle school, I started to struggle with my mental health and began to meet with different types of mental health professionals. The impactful work that they do prompted me to look into the field of psychology, and what makes people tick. I started high school at my local vocational school enrolled in the health sciences program, planning to major in psychology in college and become a licensed counselor with my own practice. But as I dove into my science-based classes, I started to really explore what it’s like to work in healthcare. I found myself loving college level classes about nutrition, or biomedical ethics. My anatomy class became my favorite of the day, despite the overwhelming course load. One of my teachers told stories of her days as a NICU nurse and an ED nurse, and I reveled in those experiences, asking her question after question about what her job was really like, the good and the bad. And slowly, I began to picture myself in that role. Could I be a nurse? Could that be something I would want to do? Prompted by my teachers, I started to research a career in nursing. I always thought that I would be a doctor if I decided to go into healthcare, but the more I learned about nursing, the more it began to appeal to me. I’m a people person, and nursing gives me the opportunity to make those meaningful connections with my future patients. After all, the common thread between all the things I’ve ever wanted to be is clear - I’ve always wanted to help people. Cliche as it is, I’ve realized that helping others is my calling in life, and what better way is there to do that than to take care of struggling souls in their lowest moments and impact their lives for years to come? But my real "aha" moment arrived when my classmates and I took a field trip to the busiest Level 1 Trauma Center in New Jersey. That day we saw how the lives of severely injured patients are saved by highly skilled doctors and nurses using the latest technology and equipment at this specialized trauma facility. From the resuscitation room located on the helipad to the trauma center operating rooms, the tour filled me with excitement because I knew from that moment that my true vocation had been determined. I am going to be a trauma nurse.

When I was eight, I was in my first Nutcracker. I’d danced on a stage before, but only for two minutes at a time. The twenty-minute-long party scene was a new challenge for me and my young, wavering focus. The corrections my small group of girls were constantly served over the months of rehearsal slowly became a mantra in my head. Tall back. Don’t talk. Turn out. Know your spot. Don’t rush. Hold your dress. Smile big. That first year taught me the importance of listening carefully and following directions, along with the knowledge to apply what I’d been told. When I was nine, I was trusted to not only be a toy soldier, but to be a soldier captain. The role came with the responsibility of knowing when to start the circle around the rat king, and marching the group of soldiers through a pattern and back to our battle lines. At each rehearsal, I would sing the counts in my head, making sure to focus on my task. I learned the responsibility of being in charge of something, of being the one who is trusted to know what to do. Ever since then, I’ve been the girl who knows the counts of every piece I’ve been a part of. When I was eleven, I was chosen to be in my first competition piece: a lyrical group of seven girls, the youngest dancers competing that season. I was ecstatic. That was, until I realized how much I would fight with my teammates; over counts, over steps, over who got to do what, over everything. But slowly, we learned to trust one another, and to work together in order to dance as one. That year taught me how to be a part of a team, and for better or for worse, I’ll be friends with those six other girls for the rest of my life. When I was thirteen, I decided to compete a solo for the first time. And whether motivated by fear or by hope, I spent endless hours rehearsing. Staying after class, running it again and again and again, until I could do it in my sleep; I developed a kind of dedication and determination that I never had before. I didn’t just want to be good enough, I wanted to be the best. And when I didn’t place in that first competition, I wasn’t angry, or sad; I just wanted to work harder. I’ve learned so many lessons throughout my fifteen years of dancing, not just about being a good dancer, but about being a good person. After all, being a dancer isn’t just about being able to jump or turn. Being a dancer is about carrying yourself with confidence, consistently giving your all, taking responsibility for yourself, having resilience and motivation, leading with grace and poise, and most importantly, embracing the opportunities that are presented to you. All of my strength, resilience and determination that I learned as a dancer I now apply to becoming the best pediatric trauma nurse I can be. I’ll have to juggle keeping up with all of my college classes and clinical rotations while working part-time, but the challenge drives me to succeed. I will become a pediatric RN, I will work in the ER and, later, as part of the trauma team, I will help kids in their most critical moments. It has become my calling. My new stage awaits.

For as long as I can remember, I’ve wanted a career that is both challenging and actually helps people. Now that I’m starting out at college, I have a clear and ambitious goal for my future in nursing. For me, this is more than just a job; it’s a path that will push me to be my best so I can provide top-notch care when people are in their most critical moments. My immediate goal is to become a trauma nurse in a Level I trauma center, and my ultimate dream is to work as a flight nurse on a medical helicopter. I’m drawn to trauma care because I am fascinated by the quick thinking needed to save a life when every second counts. An emergency room in a major trauma center is an intense environment where your knowledge, skills, and ability to stay calm are constantly tested. I want to be a steady presence in the middle of that chaos, not only giving medical help but also being a source of comfort for patients and their families on what might be the worst day of their lives. I want to be the nurse who can confidently place an IV, manage the right medications, and assist in life-saving procedures, all while working smoothly with the rest of the medical team. This role is on the front lines of nursing, and I’m excited to build the toughness and skills it requires. My ambition doesn't stop at the ER doors, though. My long-term goal is to take my critical care skills to the sky as a flight nurse. To me, flight nursing is the peak of what a nurse can do in emergency medicine. Being able to bring an entire ICU's worth of care to a patient in a hard-to-reach place is an incredible responsibility that I hope to earn one day. This role demands an even higher level of expertise, mixing the skills of an ICU and ER nurse with the challenge of treating critically injured patients in a small, high-stress helicopter with limited resources. It seems like the ultimate test of a nurse's ability to think for themselves and perform under pressure. To make this happen, I have a clear plan. My journey will start with earning my Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). After graduating and getting my license, I’ll look for a job in a busy ER or ICU at a Level I trauma center to build a strong foundation. I’ll spend several years there, getting important certifications like the Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) and Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN). Once I’ve sharpened my skills and have enough experience, I’ll go for the final step: becoming a Certified Flight Registered Nurse (CFRN) and joining a flight crew. This isn't just about moving up in a career; it's my dedicated plan to become the most skilled and capable nurse I can be.

When I was little, I didn’t quite know how to answer the age-old question: “What do you want to be when you grow up?” It was a confusing question, back when my days were consumed with Dora the Explorer and preschool playdates. I didn’t have ambitions to be an astronaut, pirate, cowboy, or princess, like my classmates did. But what I did know for sure is that I wanted to be like the grown-ups that I looked up to. In elementary school, I admired my teachers and had an innate love for learning. I dreamed of one day having my own classroom and teaching the next generation. So, when asked, I would answer, “I want to be a teacher.” As I grew older, I took notice of the people who worked with my brother, who happens to have autism, and their gentle patience and true passion for their work. I considered what it would be like to be a special education teacher, or a speech therapist, and help kids like my brother gain their own independence. I changed my answer to, “I want to work with kids with disabilities.” In middle school, I started to struggle with my mental health and began to meet with different types of mental health professionals. The impactful work that they do prompted me to look into the field of psychology, and what makes people tick. I started high school at my local vocational school enrolled in the health sciences program, planning to major in psychology in college and become a licensed counselor with my own practice. But as I dove into my science-based classes, I started to really explore what it’s like to work in healthcare. I found myself loving college level classes about nutrition, or biomedical ethics. My anatomy class became my favorite of the day, despite the overwhelming course load. One of my teachers told stories of her days as a NICU nurse and an ED nurse, and I reveled in those experiences, asking her question after question about what her job was really like, the good and the bad. And slowly, I began to picture myself in that role. Could I be a nurse? Could that be something I would want to do? Prompted by my teachers, I started to research a career in nursing. I always thought that I would be a doctor if I decided to go into healthcare, but the more I learned about nursing, the more it began to appeal to me. I’m a people person, and nursing gives me the opportunity to make those meaningful connections with my future patients. After all, the common thread between all the things I’ve ever wanted to be is clear - I’ve always wanted to help people. Cliche as it is, I’ve realized that helping others is my calling in life, and what better way is there to do that than to take care of struggling souls in their lowest moments and impact their lives for years to come? But my real "aha" moment arrived when my classmates and I took a field trip to the busiest Level 1 Trauma Center in New Jersey. That day we saw how the lives of severely injured patients are saved by highly skilled doctors and nurses using the latest technology and equipment at this specialized trauma facility. From the resuscitation room located on the helipad to the trauma center operating rooms, the tour filled me with excitement because I knew from that moment that my true vocation had been determined. I am going to be a trauma nurse. I can’t wait to start.

Standing on the cusp of a new chapter, I find myself reflecting on the experiences that have shaped me and the aspirations that now guide my path. At seventeen, my life has been a blend of rigorous dedication to both the arts and sciences, fueled by a deep commitment to serving others in my community. While this service has helped others, it has defined the type of person I aspire to be. For fifteen years, dance has been the unwavering constant in my life, primarily ballet. It’s more than just a sport; it’s a discipline that has taught me perseverance, grace under pressure, the importance of meticulous practice and the ability to rise to the occasion in a stage show or competition. Dedicating 30 hours a week to classes and rehearsals, the dance studio has become my community. Over the years it has provided me with friends from among the dancers on my level, mentors from among the older dancers who took the time to show me how to perform, coaches from among the instructors that taught me and people who cared not just about how I danced but about me as a person. Through my dance community, I felt a true sense of belonging. Along the way, I learned that I did not just want to be the recipient of what the community had to offer, but to be a provider in the community and pay forward all of the kindness, mentoring, instruction and caring that I had received. For the last seven years, I've served as a volunteer teacher's assistant at my dance studio. This role, while seemingly small, has been incredibly rewarding and purposeful. It’s given me the opportunity to mentor younger dancers, help them understand complex choreography, and foster their love for ballet. Giving back just some of what had been given to me has been tremendously fulfilling. It’s taught me that service is as much about one’s self as it is about those you serve. Beyond the studio, my involvement in numerous philanthropic events throughout high school has also been a significant part of my life. From organizing clothing to supporting students with special education needs to running food drives that directly benefited local families in need to coordinating blood drives, I've seen firsthand the tangible impact that collective effort can have on a community. These initiatives, particularly the blood drives, exposed me to critical aspects of public health and the urgent need for medical resources, reinforcing my desire to contribute. These experiences taught me patience, communication, and the joy of seeing others grow, all of which made me realize that my passion is in helping others. Not only did it lead me to become a lifeguard as my summer job for the last three years, but it opened my eyes to my true calling and vocation, to help others in their most critical moments of need as a trauma nurse. For me, the importance of serving others cannot be understated. In a world full of distractions, it has become my compass to help guide me through this stage of life. Combined with my discipline from dance and my academic background in health sciences, my unwavering commitment to serving my community has prepared me to face the new challenges ahead in nursing school. My service to my community in the important work of healthcare is just getting started.

When I was little, I didn’t quite know how to answer the age-old question: “What do you want to be when you grow up?” It was a confusing question, back when my days were consumed with Dora the Explorer and preschool playdates. I didn’t have ambitions to be an astronaut, pirate, cowboy, or princess, like my classmates did. But what I did know for sure is that I wanted to be like the grown-ups that I looked up to. In elementary school, I admired my teachers and had an innate love for learning. I dreamed of one day having my own classroom and teaching the next generation. So, when asked, I would answer, “I want to be a teacher.” As I grew older, I took notice of the people who worked with my brother, who happens to have autism, and their gentle patience and true passion for their work. I considered what it would be like to be a special education teacher, or a speech therapist, and help kids like my brother gain their own independence. I changed my answer to, “I want to work with kids with disabilities.” In middle school, I started to struggle with my mental health and began to meet with different types of mental health professionals. The impactful work that they do prompted me to look into the field of psychology, and what makes people tick. I started high school at my local vocational school enrolled in the health sciences program, planning to major in psychology in college and become a licensed counselor with my own practice. But as I dove into my science-based classes, I started to really explore what it’s like to work in healthcare. I found myself loving college level classes about nutrition, or biomedical ethics. My anatomy class became my favorite of the day, despite the overwhelming course load. One of my teachers told stories of her days as a NICU nurse and an ED nurse, and I reveled in those experiences, asking her question after question about what her job was really like, the good and the bad. And slowly, I began to picture myself in that role. Could I be a nurse? Could that be something I would want to do? Prompted by my teachers, I started to research a career in nursing. I always thought that I would be a doctor if I decided to go into healthcare, but the more I learned about nursing, the more it began to appeal to me. I’m a people person, and nursing gives me the opportunity to make those meaningful connections with my future patients. After all, the common thread between all the things I’ve ever wanted to be is clear - I’ve always wanted to help people. Cliche as it is, I’ve realized that helping others is my calling in life, and what better way is there to do that than to take care of struggling souls in their lowest moments and impact their lives for years to come? But my real "aha" moment arrived when my classmates and I took a field trip to the busiest Level 1 Trauma Center in New Jersey. That day we saw how the lives of severely injured patients are saved by highly skilled doctors and nurses using the latest technology and equipment at this specialized trauma facility. From the resuscitation room located on the helipad to the trauma center operating rooms, the tour filled me with excitement because I knew from that moment that my true vocation had been determined. I am going to be a trauma nurse. I can’t wait to start.

During one of the most difficult periods of my life, I found myself withdrawing from everything that once brought me joy, such as school, friendships, and even dance, which had always been my creative outlet and sanctuary. I was struggling with a deep depression that made it hard to even get out of bed, let alone show up in the world. When I eventually began to re-engage with life, I felt like I was stepping back into spaces where I no longer belonged. I was surrounded by people who had moved on and withdrawn from me while I had been lost in the shadows. It was isolating and terrifying. But something unexpected happened. Older dancers, who I had admired from a distance but never truly known, began to reach out to me. They welcomed me back into the studio with genuine compassion that I had not experienced from peers before. They didn’t pepper me with questions about where I had been or why I had changed. Instead, they chose to meet me where I was, without judgment or expectation, a true demonstration of kindness. They invited me to rehearse with them, to sit with them, to laugh with them. Their compassion was quiet but powerful. It was in the way they noticed if I looked overwhelmed and offered to take a break from the music and the movement, sitting quietly without needing words. It was in the way they cheered me on when I dared to take center stage again. It was in the way they consistently included me, day after day, until I began to believe that maybe I did belong. It was at that point that I decided I needed to make my mental and emotional health a priority. I noticed how those other dancers treated me even though we weren’t close before my absence. If they could offer me their kindness and empathy, I knew that I had to choose to live up to their standard and treat myself with value and self-worth. It was difficult, but I made the effort to cast aside my doubts and fight back against my fears. This change in my mindset helped chip away at the wall of depression that settled around me. This led healing and rediscovering the version of myself that had been lost. My new mindset allowed me the courage to trust others and form friendships that would become deeply meaningful and long lasting. Their kindness gave me the confidence to not only keep going but to thrive. I began taking better care of my body and to put more effort into school. My grades improved and I began looking forward to opportunities to have fun. That time taught me how important it is to care of myself in mind, body and spirit. I carry that lesson with me now, doing my best to extend the same grace to others that was once so generously given to me. As I have moved forward with my dance and school journey, I have drawn from the compassion my friends showed me to reach out to younger dancers who have experienced their own troubles. This experience has had a profound impact on the direction of my life. My focus on my own wellness led me to want to pay it forward and solidified my goal to be a trauma nurse. I feel confident that the compassion I have developed from my friends and through my experiences with younger people, has equipped me to extend it to the patients and families for whom I will care for when I become a nurse.

When I was little, I didn’t quite know how to answer the age-old question: “What do you want to be when you grow up?” It was a confusing question, back when my days were consumed with Dora the Explorer and preschool playdates. I didn’t have ambitions to be an astronaut, pirate, cowboy, or princess, like my classmates did. But what I did know for sure is that I wanted to be like the grown-ups that I looked up to. In elementary school, I admired my teachers and had an innate love for learning. I dreamed of one day having my own classroom and teaching the next generation. So, when asked, I would answer, “I want to be a teacher.” As I grew older, I took notice of the people who worked with my brother, who happens to have autism, and their gentle patience and true passion for their work. I considered what it would be like to be a special education teacher, or a speech therapist, and help kids like my brother gain their own independence. I changed my answer to, “I want to work with kids with disabilities.” In middle school, I started to struggle with my mental health and began to meet with different types of mental health professionals. The impactful work that they do prompted me to look into the field of psychology, and what makes people tick. I started high school at my local vocational school enrolled in the health sciences program, planning to major in psychology in college and become a licensed counselor with my own practice. But as I dove into my science-based classes, I started to really explore what it’s like to work in healthcare. I found myself loving college level classes about nutrition, or biomedical ethics. My anatomy class became my favorite of the day, despite the overwhelming course load. One of my teachers told stories of her days as a NICU nurse and an ED nurse, and I reveled in those experiences, asking her question after question about what her job was really like, the good and the bad. And slowly, I began to picture myself in that role. Could I be a nurse? Could that be something I would want to do? Prompted by my teachers, I started to research a career in nursing. I always thought that I would be a doctor if I decided to go into healthcare, but the more I learned about nursing, the more it began to appeal to me. I’m a people person, and nursing gives me the opportunity to make those meaningful connections with my future patients. After all, the common thread between all the things I’ve ever wanted to be is clear - I’ve always wanted to help people. Cliche as it is, I’ve realized that helping others is my calling in life, and what better way is there to do that than to take care of struggling souls in their lowest moments and impact their lives for years to come? But my real "aha" moment arrived when my classmates and I took a field trip to the busiest Level 1 Trauma Center in New Jersey. That day we saw how the lives of severely injured patients are saved by highly skilled nurses using the latest technology and equipment at this specialized trauma facility. From the resuscitation room located on the helipad to the trauma center operating rooms, the tour filled me with excitement because I knew from that moment that my vocation had been determined. I am going to be a trauma nurse. I can’t wait to start.

When I was little, I didn’t quite know how to answer the age-old question: “What do you want to be when you grow up?” It was a confusing question, back when my days were consumed with Dora the Explorer and preschool playdates. I didn’t have ambitions to be an astronaut, pirate, cowboy, or princess, like my classmates did. But what I did know for sure is that I wanted to be like the grown-ups that I looked up to. In elementary school, I admired my teachers and had an innate love for learning. I dreamed of one day having my own classroom and teaching the next generation. So, when asked, I would answer, “I want to be a teacher.” As I grew older, I took notice of the people who worked with my brother, who happens to have autism, and their gentle patience and true passion for their work. I considered what it would be like to be a special education teacher, or a speech therapist, and help kids like my brother gain their own independence. I changed my answer to, “I want to work with kids with disabilities.” In middle school, I started to struggle with my mental health and began to meet with different types of mental health professionals. The impactful work that they do prompted me to look into the field of psychology, and what makes people tick. I started high school at my local vocational school enrolled in the health sciences program, planning to major in psychology in college and become a licensed counselor with my own practice. But as I dove into my science-based classes, I started to really explore what it’s like to work in healthcare. I found myself loving college level classes about nutrition, or biomedical ethics. My anatomy class became my favorite of the day, despite the overwhelming course load. One of my teachers told stories of her days as a NICU nurse and an ED nurse, and I reveled in those experiences, asking her question after question about what her job was really like, the good and the bad. And slowly, I began to picture myself in that role. Could I be a nurse? Could that be something I would want to do? Prompted by my teachers, I started to research a career in nursing. I always thought that I would be a doctor if I decided to go into healthcare, but the more I learned about nursing, the more it began to appeal to me. I’m a people person, and nursing gives me the opportunity to make those meaningful connections with my future patients. After all, the common thread between all the things I’ve ever wanted to be is clear - I’ve always wanted to help people. Cliche as it is, I’ve realized that helping others is my calling in life, and what better way is there to do that than to take care of struggling souls in their lowest moments and impact their lives for years to come? But my real "aha" moment arrived when my classmates and I took a field trip to the busiest Level 1 Trauma Center in New Jersey. That day we saw how the lives of severely injured patients are saved by highly skilled nurses using the latest technology and equipment at this specialized trauma facility. From the resuscitation room located on the helipad to the trauma center operating rooms, the tour filled me with excitement because I knew from that moment that my vocation had been determined. I am going to be a trauma nurse. I can’t wait to start.

Receiving the KC MedBridge scholarship would be an incredible honor and a vital investment in my journey toward becoming a dedicated healthcare leader. As a recent graduate of a vocational health sciences program, poised to begin my nursing studies at Widener University, these funds would be instrumental in laying a solid foundation for my career. Primarily, these scholarship funds would directly alleviate the financial burden of tuition, textbooks, and essential lab supplies. This support would allow me to fully immerse myself in my demanding nursing curriculum, ensuring I have access to every necessary resource without the added stress of financial constraints. Given my ultimate goal of becoming a flight nurse in a Level I trauma center, the foundational knowledge gained during these early years is paramount, and the scholarship would directly facilitate my ability to excel academically. Beyond academic necessities, these funds would enable me to actively pursue the "real-world experience" and "meaningful opportunities" KC MedBridge champions. I envision using a portion for specialized certifications, such as Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) or Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), even as an undergraduate, which would significantly enhance my practical skills and readiness for trauma nursing. Furthermore, the scholarship could support participation in professional development conferences, allowing me to network with medical professionals and explore innovative patient care strategies. These funds would empower me to bridge my academic learning with practical application, ultimately contributing to a healthier future and embodying the spirit of this scholarship.

The ink on my vocational high school diploma is barely dry, yet my thoughts are already turning to the fall, when I'll trade my high school scrubs for Widener University's nursing program. At seventeen, it might seem like I'm embarking on a demanding career, but for me, pursuing healthcare, especially trauma nursing, feels inherently correct, almost destined to be. Why healthcare? It began subtly, with my fascination with the human body during biology class, and then it developed significantly when I got into my health sciences program. I appreciated the practical experience, learning everything from basic patient care to medical terminology. What truly solidified my decision, however, was witnessing the profound impact healthcare professionals have during moments of extreme vulnerability. Whether it was practicing in school or observing in clinical settings, I watched nurses and doctors demonstrate exceptional skill and profound compassion when people were highly vulnerable. The idea of being that person – the one who can bring order to a chaotic situation, provide comfort to someone hurting, and apply critical thinking to complex problems – ignited a strong passion within me. I'm drawn to the fast-paced, intensely challenging world of trauma, where every second counts, and being able to think quickly and act decisively can literally save a life. My biggest dream of being a flight nurse on a trauma helicopter at a Level I trauma center isn't just about the thrill; it's about being right there on the front lines of emergency medicine, extending a helping hand to people who need it most, often in dire circumstances. As a young woman entering this field, I truly hope to make a special and positive difference. Healthcare, especially when it's highly demanding, requires a blend of resilience and profound empathy. I want to show that the outdated notion of women in demanding roles having to choose between being caring and being competent isn't accurate. Instead, I aim to prove that these qualities are, in fact, synergistic. I believe my unique perspective as a young woman will enable me to connect with patients and their families on a deeply personal level, providing not just medical assistance but also significant emotional support and advocacy. There's a particular strength in a woman's touch, a feeling of empathy that can often calm fears and build trust when people are feeling totally exposed. I want to be a nurse who genuinely listens, who understands what people are scared of without judgment, and who helps patients feel strong, especially other women, when they're facing their toughest health challenges, understanding the specific situations they might be dealing with. Beyond just helping individual patients, I hope to be a visible example, inspiring other young women to pursue careers in science and emergency services, showing them that their unique strengths – like being resilient, naturally caring, and intellectually curious – are not merely useful but are absolutely essential for saving lives and shaping the future of medicine. I see myself as a collaborative team member, using my voice to advocate for patient-centered care and helping to create a healthcare environment where new ideas, diverse viewpoints, and kind leaders all work together. Ultimately, I am ready to embrace the challenges and rewards of this journey, confident that my passion and perspective will make a real difference in the lives I touch. The future of healthcare needs all of us, and I am eager to contribute my part.

Standing on the cusp of a new chapter, I find myself reflecting on the experiences that shaped me and the aspirations that now guide my path. At seventeen, my life has been a blend of rigorous dedication to both the arts and sciences, fueled by a deep commitment to serving others. For fifteen years, dance has been the unwavering constant in my life, primarily ballet. It’s more than just a sport; it’s a discipline that has taught me perseverance, grace under pressure, the importance of meticulous practice and the ability to rise to the occasion in a stage show or competition. Dedicating 30 hours a week to classes and rehearsals, ballet has not only refined my physical strength and coordination but also instilled an unparalleled focus. The stage demands precision and resilience, qualities I know will be invaluable in the fast-paced world of nursing. It’s an athletic endeavor that pushes my limits, much like the challenging environment of a hospital will. My academic journey at a vocational high school provided a direct pipeline to my passion for healthcare. The health sciences curriculum offered practical, hands-on experience that went beyond textbooks, preparing me for real-world medical scenarios. I was an active member of both HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America) and the National Honor Society, organizations that further cemented my commitment to academic excellence and leadership. These groups provided platforms for learning, networking, and developing the foundational knowledge I'll need at Widener University. However, it is in volunteering and community service where I feel I’ve truly made my mark. For five years, I've served as a volunteer teacher's assistant at my dance studio. This role, while seemingly small, has been incredibly rewarding. It’s given me the opportunity to mentor younger dancers, help them understand complex choreography, and foster their love for ballet. This experience taught me patience, communication, and the joy of seeing others grow – all skills directly transferable to patient education and support in healthcare. Beyond the studio, my involvement in numerous philanthropic events throughout high school has been a significant part of my life. From organizing clothing and food drives that directly benefited local families in need to coordinating blood drives, I've seen firsthand the tangible impact that collective effort can have on a community. These initiatives, particularly the blood drives, exposed me to critical aspects of public health and the urgent need for medical resources, reinforcing my desire to contribute. Looking ahead, my personal goals following high school are clear and focused. In the fall, I will embark on my nursing studies at Widener University, a program I chose for its strong clinical focus and reputation for producing highly skilled healthcare professionals. My immediate goal is to excel in my nursing courses, absorbing every piece of knowledge and gaining as much practical experience as possible. After graduation, I will become a trauma nurse, drawn to the critical nature of the work and the opportunity to make an immediate, life-saving difference. The intense environment, where quick thinking and decisive action are paramount, genuinely excites me. Ultimately, my long-term career goal is to become a flight nurse on a trauma helicopter at a Level I trauma center. This ambition stems from a desire to be at the absolute pinnacle of emergency care, providing advanced life support in the most challenging and time-sensitive situations, and extending a vital lifeline to those in extreme need. I believe that my discipline from dance, my academic background in health sciences, and my unwavering commitment to service have prepared me to face these challenges head-on and make a meaningful contribution to the healthcare field.

As a recent graduate of a vocational high school, where I intensively studied health sciences, I'm soon embarking on my collegiate journey at Widener University. Choosing to major in nursing wasn't a sudden decision; it's a path I've felt drawn to for a long time, fueled by a desire to make a tangible difference in people's lives, especially when they're at their most vulnerable. Throughout my vocational high school years, my academic focus was precisely tailored to healthcare, including college-level dual enrollment courses like nutrition, biomedical ethics, and anatomy & physiology. These weren't just subjects to study; they were windows into the incredible complexities of the human body and the ethical considerations fundamental to healing. Beyond the classroom, my involvement in HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America) was transformative. Through HOSA, I participated in student healthcare competitions and helped plan numerous philanthropic events such as blood drives and donation collections for local shelters. These experiences truly solidified my vocational calling. My primary academic objective is clear: to successfully complete my Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). I was specifically drawn to Widener University because of its strong reputation for hands-on clinical experience, its cutting-edge simulation labs that offer realistic training, and a faculty deeply invested in student success. Looking ahead professionally, my ambition is to become a trauma nurse. The dynamic, high-stakes environment of trauma care resonates with my desire to contribute meaningfully and make immediate, life-saving impacts. The idea of navigating critical situations, making rapid assessments, and providing expert care under pressure is a challenge I'm prepared to embrace. My ultimate career aspiration extends to becoming a flight nurse, operating within a trauma helicopter team at a Level I trauma center. This specialized role represents the pinnacle of pre-hospital emergency care, allowing for rapid response and advanced interventions that can bridge the crucial gap between incident and definitive care. It's a demanding path, but one I am wholly committed to pursuing. Securing this scholarship award is incredibly important for me, serving as a vital component in realizing my educational and professional aspirations. The financial realities of a university education, particularly for a rigorous and immersive program like nursing that demands significant time in clinical settings, are considerable. While I am fully prepared to contribute to my educational costs, this scholarship would provide crucial relief from the substantial financial burden that can accompany higher education. It would allow me to fully immerse myself in my studies, clinical rotations, and the development of essential trauma nursing skills without the looming pressure of accumulating significant student loan debt. Without this support, I might face the difficult choice of taking on excessive loans or needing to work hours that could potentially compromise my academic focus and overall progress. This scholarship isn't just about financial aid; it's an investment in my future as a dedicated healthcare professional, ready to serve and contribute to my community in its most challenging moments. My strategy for financing my education has been years in the making and designed to ensure I achieve my goal of graduating on schedule. First, I selected Widener University due to their generous merit scholarship offer and lowest cost of attendance among the dozen schools I applied. Second, I have been diligent in identifying and applying for external scholarships. The Headbang For Science scholarship, if awarded, would be a cornerstone of this part of my strategy. Third, my family has been incredibly supportive, and together we have built up a savings fund over the years to help cover a portion of my tuition and living expenses. My contributions toward that savings have come from years of lifeguarding and babysitting. Fourth, I plan to work an on-campus job during my time at Widener, which will require strong time management and discipline. I see it not only as a way to contribute financially but also to gain valuable work experience and further develop my independence. And, finally, as a last resort, I will consider loans if all other financial avenues are exhausted.

During one of the most difficult periods of my life, I found myself withdrawing from everything that once brought me joy, such as school, friendships, and even dance, which had always been my creative outlet and sanctuary. I was struggling with a deep depression that made it hard to even get out of bed, let alone show up in the world as my full self. When I eventually began to reengage with life, I felt like I was stepping back into spaces where I no longer belonged. I was surrounded by people who had moved on and withdrawn from me while I had been lost in the shadows. It was isolating and terrifying. But something unexpected happened. Older dancers, who I had admired from a distance but never truly known, began to reach out to me. They welcomed me back into the studio with genuine compassion that I had not experienced from peers before. They didn’t pepper me with questions about where I had been or why I had changed. Instead, they chose to meet me where I was, without judgment or expectation, a true demonstration of kindness. They invited me to rehearse with them, to sit with them, to laugh with them. Their compassion was quiet but powerful. It was in the way they noticed if I looked overwhelmed and offered to take a break from the music and the movement, sitting quietly without needing words. It was in the way they cheered me on when I dared to take center stage again. It was in the way they consistently included me, day after day, until I began to believe that maybe I did belong. That experience was life-changing. These dancers didn’t have to extend themselves to me. We weren’t close before my absence, and yet they made the choice to treat me kindly, with empathy I so desperately needed. Their compassion helped chip away at the wall I had built around myself. It allowed me to begin healing and rediscovering the version of myself that had been lost. In their actions, they conveyed something I couldn’t yet believe for myself. They taught me that I had worth, that I mattered, and that I wasn’t alone. This compassionate environment helped me form friendships that would become deeply meaningful and long-lasting. These weren’t just dance partners. They became some of my closest friends, people who saw me at my most vulnerable and chose to walk alongside me anyway. Their kindness gave me the courage to not only keep going but to thrive. That time taught me how powerful compassion can be. It doesn’t need to be loud or grand. Sometimes, it’s as simple as making space for someone who feels invisible. I carry that lesson with me now, doing my best to extend the same grace to others that was once so generously given to me. As I have moved forward with my dance and school journey, I have drawn from the compassion my friends showed me to reach out to younger dancers who have experienced their own troubles. Compassion has had a profound impact on the direction of my life; wanting to pay it forward has become my compass. It led me to become a caring lifeguard and solidified my goal to be a trauma nurse. I feel confident that the compassion I have developed from my friends and through my experiences with younger people, has equipped me to extend it to the patients and families for whom I will care for as a nurse. I can’t wait to get started.

When I was little, I didn’t quite know how to answer the age-old question: “What do you want to be when you grow up?” It was a confusing question, back when my days were consumed with Dora the Explorer and preschool playdates. I didn’t have ambitions to be an astronaut, pirate, cowboy, or princess, like my classmates did. But what I did know for sure is that I wanted to be like the grown-ups that I looked up to. In elementary school, I admired my teachers and had an innate love for learning. I dreamed of one day having my own classroom and teaching the next generation. So, when asked, I would answer, “I want to be a teacher.” As I grew older, I took notice of the people who worked with my brother, who happens to have autism, and their gentle patience and true passion for their work. I considered what it would be like to be a special education teacher, or a speech therapist, and help kids like my brother gain their own independence. I changed my answer to, “I want to work with kids with disabilities.” In middle school, I started to struggle with my mental health and began to meet with different types of mental health professionals. The impactful work that they do prompted me to look into the field of psychology, and what makes people tick. I started high school at my local vocational school enrolled in the health sciences program, planning to major in psychology in college and become a licensed counselor with my own practice. But as I dove into my science-based classes, I started to really explore what it’s like to work in healthcare. I found myself loving college level classes about nutrition, or biomedical ethics. My anatomy class became my favorite of the day, despite the overwhelming course load. One of my teachers told stories of her days as a NICU nurse and an ED nurse, and I reveled in those experiences, asking her question after question about what her job was really like, the good and the bad. And slowly, I began to picture myself in that role. Could I be a nurse? Could that be something I would want to do? Prompted by my teachers, I started to research a career in nursing. I always thought that I would be a doctor if I decided to go into healthcare, but the more I learned about nursing, the more it began to appeal to me. I’m a people person, and nursing gives me the opportunity to make those meaningful connections with my future patients. After all, the common thread between all the things I’ve ever wanted to be is clear - I’ve always wanted to help people. Cliche as it is, I’ve realized that helping others is my calling in life, and what better way is there to do that than to take care of struggling souls in their lowest moments and impact their lives for years to come? It's funny, but I've had a taste of what it feels like to inspire young girls and women, similar to those I may encounter as a nurse, throughout my life. As a ballet dancer and dance volunteer, I have held the hands of nervous, self-conscious girls who feared the stage, building them up and sharing my courage with them. I've inspired younger dancers to find poise and freedom through movement, praising their confidence and self-worth. In addition, as a special needs volunteer, I have fought for young women to have equal opportunities and equal attention in the gym and the classroom.

At the age of three, my mom took me to my first dance class and I immediately fell in love with the sport. The teachers and older girls moved with such grace and athleticism in time to the music. I wanted to be like them and become a good dancer. What I didn't know is how much dance would teach me about being a strong female over the years. When I was eight, I was in my first Nutcracker. I’d danced on a stage before, but only for two minutes at a time. The twenty-minute-long party scene was a new challenge for me and my young, wavering focus. The corrections my small group of girls were constantly served over the months of rehearsal slowly became a mantra in my head. Tall back. Don’t talk. Turn out. Know your spot. Don’t rush. Hold your dress. Smile big. That first year taught me the importance of listening carefully and following directions, along with the knowledge to apply what I’d been told. When I was nine, I was trusted to not only be a toy soldier, but to be a soldier captain. The leadership role came with the responsibility of knowing when to start the circle around the rat king, and marching the group of soldiers through a pattern and back to our battle lines. At each rehearsal, I would sing the counts in my head, making sure to focus on my task. I learned the responsibility of being in charge of something, of being the one who is trusted to know what to do. Ever since then, I’ve been the girl who knows the counts of every piece I’ve been a part of. When I was eleven, I was chosen to be in my first competition piece: a lyrical group of seven girls, the youngest dancers competing that season. I was ecstatic. That was, until I realized how much I would fight with my teammates; over counts, over steps, over who got to do what, over everything. But slowly, we learned to trust one another, and to work together in order to dance as one. That year taught me how to be a part of a team, and for better or for worse, I’ll be friends with those six other girls for the rest of my life. When I was thirteen, I decided to compete a solo for the first time. And whether motivated by fear or by hope, I spent endless hours rehearsing. Staying after class, running it again and again and again, until I could do it in my sleep; I developed a kind of dedication, determination and resilience that I had never had before. I didn’t just want to be good enough, I wanted to be the best. And when I didn’t place in that first competition, I wasn’t angry, or sad; I just wanted to work harder. I’ve learned so many lessons throughout my fifteen years of dancing, not just about being a good dancer, but about being a good person and strong female. After all, being a dancer isn’t just about being able to jump or turn. Being a dancer is about carrying yourself with confidence, consistently giving your all, taking responsibility for yourself, having resilience and motivation, leading with grace and poise, and most importantly, embracing the opportunities that are presented to you. Dance is my passion. I plan on continuing to dance while in college and find ways to pay it forward by working with and encouraging younger dancers to be confident and strong. I will always be a dancer at heart.

When I was little, I didn’t quite know how to answer the age-old question: “What do you want to be when you grow up?” It was a confusing question, back when my days were consumed with Dora the Explorer and preschool playdates. I didn’t have ambitions to be an astronaut, pirate, cowboy, or princess, like my classmates did. But what I did know for sure is that I wanted to be like the grown-ups that I looked up to. In elementary school, I admired my teachers and had an innate love for learning. I dreamed of one day having my own classroom and teaching the next generation. So, when asked, I would answer, “I want to be a teacher.” As I grew older, I took notice of the people who worked with my brother, who happens to have autism, and their gentle patience and true passion for their work. I considered what it would be like to be a special education teacher, or a speech therapist, and help kids like my brother gain their own independence. I changed my answer to, “I want to work with kids with disabilities.” In middle school, I started to struggle with my mental health and began to meet with different types of mental health professionals. The impactful work that they do prompted me to look into the field of psychology, and what makes people tick. I started high school at my local vocational school enrolled in the health sciences program, planning to major in psychology in college and become a licensed counselor with my own practice. But as I dove into my science-based classes, I started to really explore what it’s like to work in healthcare. I found myself loving college level classes about nutrition, or biomedical ethics. My anatomy class became my favorite of the day, despite the overwhelming course load. One of my teachers told stories of her days as a NICU nurse and an ED nurse, and I reveled in those experiences, asking her question after question about what her job was really like, the good and the bad. And slowly, I began to picture myself in that role. Could I be a nurse? Could that be something I would want to do? Prompted by my teachers, I started to research a career in nursing. I always thought that I would be a doctor if I decided to go into healthcare, but the more I learned about nursing, the more it began to appeal to me. I work as a lifeguard during the summer at my local community pool. Being a lifeguard has allowed me to dive into the healthcare field and gain hands-on experience, even if it’s just putting a band-aid on a scraped-up toe. Experiencing a rescue has reaffirmed my love for helping others and why I want to be a trauma nurse. Trauma is such a unique field in that you have to think on the fly and be good under pressure, and being a lifeguard has introduced me to a little taste of what that might feel like. I’m a people person, and nursing gives me the opportunity to make those meaningful connections with my future patients. After all, the common thread between all the things I’ve ever wanted to be is clear - I’ve always wanted to help people. Cliche as it is, I’ve realized that helping others is my calling in life, and what better way is there to do that than to take care of struggling souls in their lowest moments and impact their lives for years to come? I can’t wait to start.

Helen Keller once said, “Keep your face to the sunshine and you cannot see a shadow.” But every day, our world is covered in negative shadows. Popular news articles cover only the bad, not the good. Our computer screens are covered in negativity, and they are everywhere. We cannot escape the negativity of this world, but we can try to combat getting sucked so far into it that we can no longer see the warm beams of sunshine lighting up our life. We can try to say, “Think positive!”, but how can we change our thoughts? How can we adjust our lives to see the good in our world? And what does true positivity mean? As a competitive dancer, I often struggle with self image. I compare myself to those around me and get sucked into a hole of negativity within my own mind. I think, “I’ll never be as good as them,” or “I don’t deserve to be on this team.” I imagine the thoughts of my peers, telling myself, “What if they hate me? What if they don’t want me to dance with them?” Through these experiences, I’ve learned that to stop myself from being consumed by these negative thoughts, I have to flip them on their head. I have to instead ask myself, “What if they do like me? What if they enjoy dancing with me? What if I am good enough?” I can turn my negative thoughts into my positive thoughts. I can try to “Think positive.” But positive thinking isn’t easy. It’s hugely difficult for a lot of people, including myself. It requires practice and hard work. It requires focus and dedication. It requires commitment and most importantly, it requires staying true to yourself. Merriam Webster defines positivity as a practice, not a frame of mind you are just born with. Through my life experiences, I believe I’ve found the meaning of positivity for myself and the power that my positive words can have on myself and the people around me. Positivity means that you try to look at the bright side of things. Positivity means you spread the sunshine and not the shadow. Instead of saying “I can’t”, say “I can try.” Instead of saying, “I’m ugly,” say, “I’m beautiful in my own right.” Instead of saying “I don’t deserve this,” say, “I deserve to have opportunities and to take them.” Not only can you improve your life by choosing to be positive, but you can also improve the lives of those around you. Positivity is contagious, and when one person chooses to push negativity away and embrace the positive aspects of life, it benefits everyone around them. If just one person chooses to be positive, the positivity can keep spreading from person to person until our world changes for the good. If everyone turns their face to the sunshine of positivity, we can push away the negative shadow, and become stronger together. As I head off to college to study nursing and become an RN, I have some of those same thoughts, "am I good enough?" and "can I do this?". But I chose nursing because it will allow me to make a positive impact on the world. When others are in pain, I can be there to help them as a nurse. Becoming a nurse is more than just about me. I am good enough and I can do this, to help others.

When I was little, I didn’t quite know how to answer the age-old question: “What do you want to be when you grow up?” It was a confusing question, back when my days were consumed with Dora the Explorer and preschool playdates. I didn’t have ambitions to be an astronaut, pirate, cowboy, or princess, like my classmates did. But what I did know for sure is that I wanted to be like the grown-ups that I looked up to. In elementary school, I admired my teachers and had an innate love for learning. I dreamed of one day having my own classroom and teaching the next generation. So, when asked, I would answer, “I want to be a teacher.” As I grew older, I took notice of the people who worked with my brother, who happens to have autism, and their gentle patience and true passion for their work. I considered what it would be like to be a special education teacher, or a speech therapist, and help kids like my brother gain their own independence. I changed my answer to, “I want to work with kids with disabilities.” In middle school, I started to struggle with my mental health and began to meet with different types of mental health professionals. The impactful work that they do prompted me to look into the field of psychology, and what makes people tick. I started high school at my local vocational school enrolled in the health sciences program, planning to major in psychology in college and become a licensed counselor with my own practice. But as I dove into my science-based classes, I started to really explore what it’s like to work in healthcare. I found myself loving college level classes about nutrition, or biomedical ethics. My anatomy class became my favorite of the day, despite the overwhelming course load. One of my teachers told stories of her days as a NICU nurse and an ED nurse, and I reveled in those experiences, asking her question after question about what her job was really like, the good and the bad. And slowly, I began to picture myself in that role. Could I be a nurse? Could that be something I would want to do? Prompted by my teachers, I started to research a career in nursing. I always thought that I would be a doctor if I decided to go into healthcare, but the more I learned about nursing, the more it began to appeal to me. I’m a people person, and nursing gives me the opportunity to make those meaningful connections with my future patients. After all, the common thread between all the things I’ve ever wanted to be is clear - I’ve always wanted to help people. Cliche as it is, I’ve realized that helping others is my calling in life, and what better way is there to do that than to take care of struggling souls in their lowest moments and impact their lives for years to come? I can’t wait to start. I found this scholarship opportunity on bold.org.

When I was little, I didn’t quite know how to answer the age-old question: “What do you want to be when you grow up?” It was a confusing question, back when my days were consumed with Dora the Explorer and preschool playdates. I didn’t have ambitions to be an astronaut, pirate, cowboy, or princess, like my classmates did. But what I did know for sure is that I wanted to be like the grown-ups that I looked up to. In elementary school, I admired my teachers and had an innate love for learning. I dreamed of one day having my own classroom and teaching the next generation. So, when asked, I would answer, “I want to be a teacher.” As I grew older, I took notice of the people who worked with my brother, who happens to have autism, and their gentle patience and true passion for their work. I considered what it would be like to be a special education teacher, or a speech therapist, and help kids like my brother gain their own independence. I changed my answer to, “I want to work with kids with disabilities.” In middle school, I started to struggle with my mental health and began to meet with different types of mental health professionals. The impactful work that they do prompted me to look into the field of psychology, and what makes people tick. I started high school at my local vocational school enrolled in the health sciences program, planning to major in psychology in college and become a licensed counselor with my own practice. But as I dove into my science-based classes, I started to really explore what it’s like to work in healthcare. I found myself loving college level classes about nutrition, or biomedical ethics. My anatomy class became my favorite of the day, despite the overwhelming course load. One of my teachers told stories of her days as a NICU nurse and an ED nurse, and I reveled in those experiences, asking her question after question about what her job was really like, the good and the bad. And slowly, I began to picture myself in that role. Could I be a nurse? Could that be something I would want to do? Prompted by my teachers, I started to research a career in nursing. I always thought that I would be a doctor if I decided to go into healthcare, but the more I learned about nursing, the more it began to appeal to me. I’m a people person, and nursing gives me the opportunity to make those meaningful connections with my future patients. After all, the common thread between all the things I’ve ever wanted to be is clear - I’ve always wanted to help people. Cliche as it is, I’ve realized that helping others is my calling in life, and what better way is there to do that than to take care of struggling souls in their lowest moments and impact their lives for years to come? I can’t wait to start.

When I was little, I didn’t quite know how to answer the age-old question: “What do you want to be when you grow up?” It was a confusing question, back when my days were consumed with Dora the Explorer and preschool playdates. I didn’t have ambitions to be an astronaut, pirate, cowboy, or princess, like my classmates did. But what I did know for sure is that I wanted to be like the grown-ups that I looked up to. In elementary school, I admired my teachers and had an innate love for learning. I dreamed of one day having my own classroom and teaching the next generation. So, when asked, I would answer, “I want to be a teacher.” As I grew older, I took notice of the people who worked with my brother, who happens to have autism, and their gentle patience and true passion for their work. I considered what it would be like to be a special education teacher, or a speech therapist, and help kids like my brother gain their own independence. I changed my answer to, “I want to work with kids with disabilities.” In middle school, I started to struggle with my mental health and began to meet with different types of mental health professionals. The impactful work that they do prompted me to look into the field of psychology, and what makes people tick. I started high school at my local vocational school enrolled in the health sciences program, planning to major in psychology in college and become a licensed counselor with my own practice. But as I dove into my science-based classes, I started to really explore what it’s like to work in healthcare. I found myself loving college level classes about nutrition, or biomedical ethics. My anatomy class became my favorite of the day, despite the overwhelming course load. One of my teachers told stories of her days as a NICU nurse and an ED nurse, and I reveled in those experiences, asking her question after question about what her job was really like, the good and the bad. And slowly, I began to picture myself in that role. Could I be a nurse? Could that be something I would want to do? Prompted by my teachers, I started to research a career in nursing. I always thought that I would be a doctor if I decided to go into healthcare, but the more I learned about nursing, the more it began to appeal to me. I’m a people person, and nursing gives me the opportunity to make those meaningful connections with my future patients. After all, the common thread between all the things I’ve ever wanted to be is clear - I’ve always wanted to help people. Cliche as it is, I’ve realized that helping others is my calling in life, and what better way is there to do that than to take care of struggling souls in their lowest moments and impact their lives for years to come? I plan to specialize in trauma nursing and hope to one day be a flight medic. I want to serve my community by providing real-time medical care at the point of immediate and urgent need to save lives. My parents both come from families that supported our military forces through enlistment and civilian service. While I don't yet know if I will pursue the honorable calling of military service, I have been encouraged by several members of my family to give it serious consideration. That future is to be determined.

When I was little, I didn’t quite know how to answer the age-old question: “What do you want to be when you grow up?” It was a confusing question, back when my days were consumed with Dora the Explorer and preschool playdates. I didn’t have ambitions to be an astronaut, pirate, cowboy, or princess, like my classmates did. But what I did know for sure is that I wanted to be like the grown-ups that I looked up to. In elementary school, I admired my teachers and had an innate love for learning. I dreamed of one day having my own classroom and teaching the next generation. So, when asked, I would answer, “I want to be a teacher.” As I grew older, I took notice of the people who worked with my brother, who happens to have autism, and their gentle patience and true passion for their work. I considered what it would be like to be a special education teacher, or a speech therapist, and help kids like my brother gain their own independence. I changed my answer to, “I want to work with kids with disabilities.” In middle school, I started to struggle with my mental health and began to meet with different types of mental health professionals. The impactful work that they do prompted me to look into the field of psychology, and what makes people tick. I started high school at my local vocational school enrolled in the health sciences program, planning to major in psychology in college and become a licensed counselor with my own practice. But as I dove into my science-based classes, I started to really explore what it’s like to work in healthcare. I found myself loving college level classes about nutrition, or biomedical ethics. My anatomy class became my favorite of the day, despite the overwhelming course load. One of my teachers told stories of her days as a NICU nurse and an ED nurse, and I reveled in those experiences, asking her question after question about what her job was really like, the good and the bad. And slowly, I began to picture myself in that role. Could I be a nurse? Could that be something I would want to do? Prompted by my teachers, I started to research a career in nursing. I always thought that I would be a doctor if I decided to go into healthcare, but the more I learned about nursing, the more it began to appeal to me. I’m a people person, and nursing gives me the opportunity to make those meaningful connections with my future patients. After all, the common thread between all the things I’ve ever wanted to be is clear - I’ve always wanted to help people. Cliche as it is, I’ve realized that helping others is my calling in life, and what better way is there to do that than to take care of struggling souls in their lowest moments and impact their lives for years to come? I can’t wait to start.

When I was little, I didn’t quite know how to answer the age-old question: “What do you want to be when you grow up?” It was a confusing question, back when my days were consumed with Dora the Explorer and preschool playdates. I didn’t have ambitions to be an astronaut, pirate, cowboy, or princess, like my classmates did. But what I did know for sure is that I wanted to be like the grown-ups that I looked up to. In elementary school, I admired my teachers and had an innate love for learning. I dreamed of one day having my own classroom and teaching the next generation. So, when asked, I would answer, “I want to be a teacher.” As I grew older, I took notice of the people who worked with my brother, who happens to have autism, and their gentle patience and true passion for their work. I considered what it would be like to be a special education teacher, or a speech therapist, and help kids like my brother gain their own independence. I changed my answer to, “I want to work with kids with disabilities.” In middle school, I started to struggle with my mental health and began to meet with different types of mental health professionals. The impactful work that they do prompted me to look into the field of psychology, and what makes people tick. I started high school at my local vocational school enrolled in the health sciences program, planning to major in psychology in college and become a licensed counselor with my own practice. But as I dove into my science-based classes, I started to really explore what it’s like to work in healthcare. I found myself loving college level classes about nutrition, or biomedical ethics. My anatomy class became my favorite of the day, despite the overwhelming course load. One of my teachers told stories of her days as a NICU nurse and an ED nurse, and I reveled in those experiences, asking her question after question about what her job was really like, the good and the bad. And slowly, I began to picture myself in that role. Could I be a nurse? Could that be something I would want to do? Prompted by my teachers, I started to research a career in nursing. I always thought that I would be a doctor if I decided to go into healthcare, but the more I learned about nursing, the more it began to appeal to me. I’m a people person, and nursing gives me the opportunity to make those meaningful connections with my future patients. After all, the common thread between all the things I’ve ever wanted to be is clear - I’ve always wanted to help people. Cliche as it is, I’ve realized that helping others is my calling in life, and what better way is there to do that than to take care of struggling souls in their lowest moments and impact their lives for years to come? As a soon to be June 2025 high school graduate, I'm still at the beginning of my nursing journey. I don't know yet which specific fields interest me the most or where my educational and career goals will take me yet. But I do know one thing, . . . I can’t wait to start.