"Please stand clear of the doors. Por favor, manténgase alejado de las puertas." These familiar words from the Disney World monorail have been the soundtrack to my journey of self-discovery. While most hear a simple safety announcement, I hear the beginning of a story that led me to find my calling in pediatric nursing. My earliest Disney memories are filled with wonder at how cast members transformed everyday moments into magic. At five years old, overwhelmed and crying during a crowded day at the park, a cast member knelt beside me, learned my name, and presented me with a Mickey Mouse sticker. This simple act of compassion showed me how a moment of kindness could change someone's entire day – a lesson that would later shape my career aspirations. The magic of Disney became more than an escape; it became my sanctuary during one of the darkest periods of my life. In 2019-2020, after years of homeschooling, I entered private school and faced relentless bullying. My peers targeted me for being different, mocking my mannerisms and speaking. Initially, I retreated inward, but Disney's values of resilience and kindness, woven into my character since childhood, helped me rediscover my worth. When the pandemic closed the parks, I was separated from my haven. This distance, however, brought clarity. I realized Disney's true magic wasn't in the rides or characters, but in the feeling of possibility and connection, it created. This understanding transformed my perspective on my future career in healthcare. As a swim instructor working with children of diverse backgrounds, including those on the autism spectrum, I've already begun channeling the spirit of those Disney cast members who inspired me. Recently, I worked with a student with autism who was terrified of the water. Drawing from my Disney experiences, I used storytelling and imaginative play to transform his fear into excitement. Watching him progress from anxiety to confidence revealed the kind of impact I want to have as a pediatric nurse practitioner. My journey from a wide-eyed three-year-old on the monorail to a focused healthcare aspirant hasn't been linear but purposeful. Whenever I hear "Welcome aboard the Walt Disney World Express Monorail – your highway in the sky to the Magic Kingdom," I'm reminded of the path that led me here. Just as Disney cast members create moments of magic for children, I aim to bring that combination of clinical expertise and compassionate care to pediatric nursing. At sixteen and approaching my final year of high school, I understand that my early Disney experiences weren't just about entertainment—they were lessons in empathy, resilience, and the power of human connection. I will bring these qualities to my nursing career, where each interaction with a young patient will be an opportunity to create a moment of magic in what might otherwise be a scary situation. The journey from Disney magic to medical care might seem unusual, but both share the same core: the ability to transform challenging moments into opportunities for hope and healing. As I pursue my dream of becoming a pediatric nurse practitioner, I carry the lessons learned from the enchanting and challenging moments of my Disney experiences with me, ready to create my magic in healthcare.

Like Kalia D. Davis, whose vibrant spirit and dedication inspire others, I believe in creating meaningful connections that transcend life's most significant challenges. When I learned about Kalia's story, her passion for running, her commitment to excellence, and her ability to touch countless lives through her kindness, I felt a profound connection to her legacy that extends far beyond this scholarship application. My journey toward becoming a pediatric nurse practitioner has been shaped by experiences that echo Kalia's dedication to making a difference. As a swim instructor working with children on the autism spectrum, I've learned that true impact comes from the genuine compassion and perseverance Kalia exemplified throughout her life. Each time I help a frightened child find their courage in the water, I channel the same spirit of determination that drove Kalia to excel in cross country and her studies. The 2019-2020 school year tested my resilience in unexpected ways. Transitioning from homeschooling to private school, I faced relentless bullying that pushed me toward depression and thoughts of suicide. During this dark period, it helped me understand that our most challenging moments can become catalysts for helping others. Just as Kalia turned her passion for running into a source of inspiration for those around her, I've transformed my experiences with adversity into a deeper understanding of what it means to provide compassionate care to others. At 16 and approaching my final year of high school, I see my calling to pediatric healthcare as an opportunity to carry forward Kalia's legacy of excellence and kindness. Working with children from diverse backgrounds has taught me that creating moments of comfort and courage for others isn't just about technical skills; it's about bringing the same warmth and dedication that made Kalia such a remarkable person. Throughout my experiences as a swim instructor, I've learned the profound impact that patience, understanding, and genuine care can have on a child's life. When my first student with autism went from fear to excitement through gentle encouragement and experience, I realized that this transformative connection is precisely what I want to bring to pediatric healthcare. Like Kalia, who clearly understood the importance of lifting others while pursuing her goals, I am committed to combining academic excellence with a genuine desire to make a difference in children's lives. This scholarship represents more than financial support for my education; it's an opportunity to honor Kalia's memory by embodying the values she lived by. Her dedication to excellence in academics while maintaining a spirit of kindness and service mirrors my aspirations in healthcare. Just as Kalia left an indelible mark on her community through her achievements and compassion, I am committed to creating positive change in pediatric healthcare, where moments of vulnerability can be transformed into opportunities for healing and growth. Kalia's legacy teaches us that personal achievements and our positive impact on others measure a well-lived life. As I pursue my dream of becoming a pediatric nurse practitioner, I promise to carry forward her spirit of excellence, kindness, and unwavering determination. Through this scholarship, I hope to honor Kalia's memory by dedicating myself to creating the same meaningful, lasting impact that she continues to have on so many lives.

Growing up, I faced numerous challenges that tested my resolve and inner strength. One significant challenge was navigating through a learning disability, which made traditional classroom environments particularly difficult for me. Despite these hurdles, I remained determined to excel academically. To overcome these challenges, I developed a system of meticulous planning and time management, and I sought help from tutors and teachers whenever needed. Through persistent effort, I managed to improve my grades and gain the confidence to take on leadership roles in school clubs and activities. As I matured, I realized that my experiences had shaped my desire to help others facing similar difficulties. My career goal as a nurse, particularly as a pediatric nurse practitioner, is to provide compassionate and individualized care to children who face various challenges, whether they be physical, emotional, or developmental. I am driven by the belief that every child deserves to feel valued and supported, regardless of their circumstances. I plan to make a difference in my community by creating programs that focus on health education and early intervention. For example, I envision establishing workshops for parents and children that address common health concerns, promote healthy lifestyles, and provide resources for managing chronic conditions. These workshops would educate and empower families to take proactive steps in maintaining their health. Moreover, I aim to work closely with schools to implement health screenings and wellness initiatives. By identifying health issues early, we can ensure that children receive the necessary support to thrive academically and personally. Collaborating with educators and parents, I will advocate for a holistic approach to child health, recognizing the interplay between physical health, mental well-being, and academic success. My experience as a swim instructor has reinforced my commitment to positively impacting children’s lives. Working with children of diverse backgrounds, including those on the autism spectrum, has taught me the importance of patience, empathy, and adaptability. These are crucial qualities in nursing, where each patient’s needs are unique and require a tailored approach. By becoming a pediatric nurse practitioner, I aim to be a pillar of support for children and their families, offering care that extends beyond the clinical setting. Building trust and rapport with my patients will enable me to effectively address their health concerns and foster a nurturing environment for their growth and development. In conclusion, my career goal as a nurse is to leverage my personal experiences and professional training to make a tangible difference in my community. Through health education, early intervention, and compassionate care, I aspire to create a supportive network that empowers children to overcome challenges and lead healthier, happier lives.

Resilience has been a defining characteristic throughout all of my life, especially during challenging moments that tested my strength. During the 2019-2020 school year, I faced relentless bullying after transitioning from homeschooling to private school. The bullies targeted me for being different, mocking my behavior and speech, which drove me into a dark place of depression and suicidal thoughts. Initially, I retreated into myself, feeling overwhelmed and isolated. However, this painful experience became a turning point. I realized that despite the cruelty I faced, I had the power to rise above it. I drew strength from within, remembering my worth and the values of resilience and kindness. Overcoming this adversity taught me to empathize deeply with others who struggle, which became a cornerstone of my character and future aspirations. The experience of being bullied not only strengthened my resolve but also inspired my passion for healthcare. I wanted to be a source of comfort and support for others, just as I had yearned for someone to be there for me. This drive led me to become a swim instructor, working with children of diverse backgrounds, including those on the autism spectrum. One of my most rewarding moments was helping a student with autism overcome his fear of water through storytelling and games, transforming his anxiety into excitement. In my role as a swim instructor, I learned the importance of patience, understanding, and the ability to adapt to each child's unique needs. These qualities are essential in healthcare, where every patient requires individualized care and attention. My experiences with these children, especially those facing their own challenges, reinforced my commitment to pursuing a career in nursing. I saw firsthand how a nurturing environment could foster growth and confidence, and I wanted to bring that same environment to the healthcare field. These experiences solidified my decision to become a pediatric nurse practitioner. In healthcare, I see an opportunity to extend empathy, resilience, and kindness to children facing difficult situations, much like I once did. My journey through bullying and my subsequent growth have prepared me to inspire and support children, ensuring they feel valued and understood in their moments of need. By helping them navigate their challenges, I aim to empower them to discover their own resilience, just as I discovered mine. This career path allows me to blend my personal experiences with my professional aspirations, creating a fulfilling and impactful future.

The rhythmic rumble of the monorail, announcing my arrival at Disney World, wasn't just a sound but a symphony of childhood wonder. From that first exhilarating ride at three years old, the magic of Disney permeated my being. With their infectious smiles and unwavering dedication to creating joyful experiences for every guest, the cast members left an indelible mark on my soul. Witnessing their genuine care and ability to make every child feel special ignited a spark. I vividly remember when I felt overwhelmed, tears welling in my eyes. A kind cast member, noticing my distress, gently knelt, learned my name, and presented me with a special Mickey Mouse sticker. This small gesture, this act of genuine empathy, resonated deeply, shaping my understanding of the profound impact of human connection. However, understanding "giving back" wasn't always easy. The transition to middle school proved challenging, marked by a period of bullying that tested my resilience. I retreated inward, grappling with feelings of isolation and self-doubt. Yet, amidst the darkness, the values instilled in me by Disney – kindness, empathy, and the unwavering belief in the power of imagination – provided a beacon of hope. I learned to navigate adversity, to find strength within myself, and to emerge stronger, determined to spread the magic of kindness to others. This transformative experience solidified my desire to pursue a career in pediatric nursing. I believe in the power of compassionate care and the ability to create a healing environment where children feel safe, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential. My current role as a swim instructor provides a valuable platform for putting these values into action. Working with children of diverse backgrounds, including those on the autism spectrum, requires patience, understanding, and a genuine desire to connect. I've learned to adapt my teaching style, employing storytelling, games, and a playful approach to foster a sense of comfort and encourage exploration. Witnessing a child overcome their fear of the water, their faces beaming with joy and accomplishment, fills me with an indescribable feeling of purpose. My passion for giving back extends beyond my personal experiences. Healthcare, at its core, is about compassion, empathy, and a genuine desire to improve the lives of others. True healing goes beyond simply treating illnesses; it encompasses providing emotional support, fostering a sense of hope, and creating a nurturing environment where patients and their families feel valued and understood. As a future pediatric nurse practitioner, I am eager to contribute to this vital mission. I plan to seek opportunities to work in underserved communities where access to quality healthcare may be limited. I envision providing comprehensive care to children from diverse backgrounds and addressing their physical and emotional needs with sensitivity and respect. Furthermore, I plan to participate in community health initiatives actively. This may involve organizing health education workshops for underserved populations, providing basic health screenings, or volunteering at local clinics to assist with patient care. I believe that by actively engaging with the community and addressing the unique healthcare needs of vulnerable populations, I can make a significant and lasting impact. My commitment to giving back is deeply rooted in my values and inspired by the profound impact of kindness and compassion on the human spirit. By dedicating my career to serving others, I can improve the health and well-being of individuals and contribute to creating a more just and equitable society.

"Please, Stand clear of the doors. Por favor, manténgase alejado de las puertas." While this might seem like a simple monorail announcement at Disney World, it represents the beginning of my journey toward healthcare. Though I didn't know it at three years old, pressing my face against the window, these early Disney experiences would shape my decision to pursue a medical career. One transformative moment stands out from my countless visits: a cast member noticed me crying and overwhelmed. She knelt, asked my name, and gave me a special Mickey Mouse sticker. This seemingly small act of kindness demonstrated how simple gestures could profoundly impact someone in distress – a principle that now guides my healthcare aspirations. My path toward healthcare became more apparent during the challenging 2019-2020 school year. Facing relentless bullying at my private school and struggling with depression, I gained firsthand experience with the importance of compassionate care and emotional support. This personal struggle deepened my understanding of how healthcare providers must address physical and emotional well-being. The pandemic's isolation period provided unexpected clarity about my future. While Disney parks were closed, I reflected on what truly mattered to me. I realized I wanted to combine the compassion I'd witnessed from Disney cast members with the technical expertise of healthcare to make a real difference in people's lives. As a current swim instructor working with children of diverse backgrounds, including those on the autism spectrum, I've already begun building the foundation for my healthcare career. When I helped my first student with autism overcome his fear of water through storytelling and games, I discovered how healthcare education could empower me to make an even more significant impact. My career goal is to become a pediatric nurse practitioner specializing in working with children with special needs. I plan to earn my BSN and gain experience in pediatric intensive care before pursuing my master's degree in nursing. Ultimately, I aim to work in a children's hospital or establish a practice focused on comprehensive care for children with autism and other developmental differences. Beyond direct patient care, I hope to contribute to healthcare education and policy. Drawing on my personal experiences with mental health challenges, I want to develop programs that better integrate mental health support into pediatric care. I envision creating training protocols that help healthcare providers better communicate with children with different needs or communication styles. My decision to pursue healthcare education isn't just about career advancement—it's about creating an environment where every patient feels as valued and understood as I did during those early Disney experiences. Whether it's a nervous patient before a procedure or developing new approaches to pediatric care, I'll carry forward the lessons in kindness and empathy that set me on this path. Now, at 16 and approaching my final year of high school, I'm more confident than ever about my decision to enter healthcare. My experiences have shown me that medicine isn't just about treating symptoms – it's about creating moments of comfort and understanding when people need them most. Through healthcare education, I'll gain the skills and knowledge to transform these moments into lasting positive impacts on patients' lives.

"Please, Stand clear of the doors. Por favor, manténgase alejado de las puertas." The authoritative voice echoes through the monorail as I, a 3-year-old, rush to sit beside the window. Like many children visiting Disney World for the first time, I dreamed of becoming a Disney Princess or a cast member. I was captivated by their ability to create magic and bring joy to everyone they encountered. By age five, I was a frequent visitor to Disney World, and every interaction with the cast members shaped my career aspirations. "Welcome aboard the Walt Disney World Express Monorail—your highway in the sky to the Magic Kingdom." Each visit reinforced my desire to be someone who could make others feel special, just like they did. One pivotal moment stands out: a cast member noticed me crying and overwhelmed. She knelt, asked my name, and gave me a special Mickey Mouse sticker. This simple act of kindness left an indelible mark on my understanding of what it means to help others truly. As I grew older, my career dreams evolved, but the core desire to create "magic" for others remained. The challenging 2019-2020 school year, when I faced relentless bullying at my private school, actually helped clarify my path. While struggling with depression and suicidal thoughts, I found strength in remembering the compassion I'd experienced at Disney. When Disney parks closed during the pandemic, I had time to reflect on what truly mattered to me. While I no longer dreamed of being a Disney Princess, I wanted to embody the same spirit of kindness and healing differently. My dream of creating magic became a more focused goal: becoming a pediatric nurse practitioner. At 16, approaching my final year of high school, I see how my childhood aspirations and current career path are beautifully connected. As a swim instructor working with children, including those with autism, I channel the same magical spirit I admired in Disney cast members. When I helped my first student with autism overcome his fear of water through storytelling and games, I realized I had found my true calling. While I may not wear a princess crown or work at the Magic Kingdom, I'm pursuing a career that embraces everything I loved about my childhood dream: creating moments of comfort, spreading joy, and making a difference in people's lives. As a future pediatric nurse practitioner, I'll still be creating magic with a stethoscope instead of a magic wand. The child in me who wanted to be a Disney Princess would be proud to see how that dream has matured into something even more meaningful. Through nursing, I'll be able to help children during their most vulnerable moments, just as those cast members once helped me.

From my earliest memories of Disney World's cast members showing extraordinary kindness to a crying child, I understood the profound impact that compassion can have on someone in distress. While my love for Disney initially stemmed from its magic and wonder, it ultimately taught me something more profound – the power of making others feel safe, understood, and cared for in vulnerable moments. This fundamental lesson has shaped my passion for nursing. As a swim instructor who works with diverse children, including those on the autism spectrum, I've already begun implementing these principles. When faced with a fearful student with autism, I drew upon the same spirit of gentle understanding I'd witnessed countless times at Disney, using storytelling and games to transform his fear into confidence. This experience crystallized my calling to pediatric nursing, where I hope to specialize as a pediatric nurse practitioner. My own experiences with bullying and depression during my private school years have given me a unique insight into childhood vulnerability. As Disney served as my haven during those difficult times, I want to create that sense of safety and acceptance for my future patients. I understand firsthand how critical it is for children to feel protected and understood during their most challenging moments, especially in healthcare settings that can feel overwhelming. As a pediatric nurse practitioner, I aim to revolutionize how we approach children's healthcare experiences. Beyond just treating physical ailments, I want to pioneer methods that address pediatric care's emotional and psychological aspects. Drawing from my background working with children with autism, I plan to develop specialized communication techniques that make medical procedures less intimidating for children with different needs. My goal isn't just to treat patients—it's to transform pediatric healthcare into an environment where every child feels as unique and safe as I did when that Disney cast member knelt to comfort me years ago. I envision creating training programs for healthcare staff that emphasize the importance of these small but meaningful interactions, ultimately building a more compassionate and effective pediatric care system. This career isn't just a professional choice for me - it's a calling that aligns perfectly with my life experiences and core values. Through nursing, I can honor the lessons in kindness and empathy that Disney taught me while making a lasting impact on children's healthcare experiences. I hope I can truly give every child a magical experience to remember.

Please, Stand clear of the doors. Por favor, manténgase alejado de las puertas." The authoritative voice echoes through the monorail as 3-year-old me rushes to sit beside the window. To me, it isn't just an announcement; it’s the start of a lifelong journey that has shaped who I am today. It was 2011, and I was going to Disney for the first time. This place of magic was destined to impact my character and aspirations for years to come. When the pandemic closed the parks, I yearned for my safe space. As I reflected during this time, the distance from my safe place taught me about myself and the person I wanted to become. I realized Disney's magic wasn't just in the rides or characters but rather the feelings of wonder, kindness, and possibility it ingrained in me. Now, I'm 16, just days away from entering my final year of high school. Stepping out of the monorail, I whispered, "I'm home." But I realized that "home" means so much more than this place—it is a feeling that I am now passionately dedicating to spreading in the health field as a future pediatric nurse practitioner. Disney experiences have had the most direct impact on my career choice. Witnessing how the cast members created magic for each child motivated me to enter a profession where I could do the same for a child in a difficult situation. I found my calling as a current swim instructor working with children of diverse backgrounds, including those on the autism spectrum. I channeled a little of that Disney magic when my first student with autism was afraid to get into the pool. I got him to go from fear to excitement with storytelling and games. This experience has solidified my drive to have this same effect in my nursing career. Disney magic takes people from everyday burdens to a place where everything is possible. As a future pediatric nurse practitioner, I want to create this kind of magic in hospital rooms and clinics. I want to greet each child with the same enthusiasm and warmth that the Disney cast members gave me so that every child feels special and respected. Just like Disney created my childhood magic, I hope to be able to provide moments of joy and wonder for children who are experiencing a medical problems. Disney has taught me that there can be joy in the hard times, hope always in the darkest days, and that every person deserves to be treated with truthful care and respect. I aim to carry this into my nursing career, making every child's healthcare journey more magical."

Pursuing a degree in healthcare has been a dream of mine for as long as I can remember. I have always wanted to make a difference, especially in underserved areas across the country. As a rising college freshman, I am excited to start my journey towards becoming a nurse practitioner. My goal is to be a safe and reliable presence for many people who need care and support. The healthcare field offers a unique opportunity to impact lives on a daily basis. As a woman, I believe I can bring empathy, understanding, and determination to my role. I want to be a part of a profession that not only heals but also empowers and educates individuals and communities. My interest in nursing stems from a deep desire to help others and to be a source of comfort and strength during their most vulnerable times. Being a Black woman in healthcare is particularly important to me. I want to represent and advocate for communities that have been historically underserved and marginalized. By pursuing a nursing degree, I hope to address health disparities and improve access to quality care for all. I understand the challenges that come with being a minority in this field, but I am determined to use my voice and position to bring about positive change. I have chosen to apply to several universities, including the University of Pennsylvania, University of Maryland College Park, and Drexel University, among others. Each of these institutions offers a strong nursing program that will equip me with the skills and knowledge I need to succeed. My high school GPA of 4.0 reflects my dedication and commitment to my studies, and I am eager to continue this level of excellence in college. As a future nurse practitioner, I hope to work in community clinics or mobile health units that serve underrepresented areas. I want to provide care that is not only effective but also culturally sensitive and inclusive. My vision is to create a welcoming environment where patients feel heard and respected. By building trust and fostering open communication, I aim to improve health outcomes and enhance the overall well-being of the communities I serve. In conclusion, my decision to pursue a degree in healthcare is driven by a passion to make a meaningful impact. As a woman in this field, I am committed to breaking barriers and advocating for those who have been overlooked. I am excited to embark on this journey and to contribute to a brighter, healthier future for all. Through hard work and dedication, I am confident that I can make a difference and inspire others to do the same.

My name is Jordan Sam, and I am a rising college freshman with a passion for nursing. I have a vision for my future as a nurse that is deeply rooted in my desire to make a difference in the lives of children, especially those who are underserved. I want to eventually own my own pediatric clinic, ideally in an underrepresented area of our country. My dream is to change the lives of many children, particularly those who do not get the treatment they need. I want every child to feel special and loved. As I embark on my journey to become a nurse, I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead. I have applied to several universities, with my top choices being Towson University, University of Maryland College Park, and Morgan State University. My focus will be on nursing and pre-nursing programs, which will provide me with the foundation I need to achieve my goals. Growing up, I have always been drawn to helping others. This passion led me to pursue a career in nursing, where I can have a direct impact on people's lives. I am particularly interested in pediatrics because I believe that children are our future, and it is important to ensure they have the best start in life. I want to be a nurse who not only provides medical care but also offers support and compassion to children and their families. My vision for my future as a nurse is not just about owning a clinic. It is about creating a space where children feel safe and valued. I want to build a clinic that is accessible to all, regardless of their background or financial situation. By focusing on underrepresented areas, I hope to address healthcare disparities and provide quality care to those who need it most. I understand that achieving this vision will require hard work and dedication. I am ready to face the challenges that come with pursuing a career in nursing. I am committed to gaining the knowledge and skills necessary to provide excellent care. My high school GPA of 4.0 reflects my dedication to my studies, and I am eager to continue this level of commitment in college. As a Black woman, I am also aware of the importance of representation in healthcare. I hope to inspire other young people, especially those from minority backgrounds, to pursue careers in nursing. By owning my clinic, I want to show that it is possible to achieve your dreams, no matter where you come from. In addition to my academic pursuits, I am also interested in community service. I believe that giving back to the community is an essential part of being a nurse. I plan to volunteer at local hospitals and clinics to gain experience and make a positive impact on those around me. These experiences will not only enhance my skills but also deepen my understanding of the healthcare needs of different communities. I am also interested in continuing my education beyond my undergraduate degree. I believe that staying informed about the latest advancements in healthcare is crucial for providing the best care possible. I plan to attend workshops, conferences, and other professional development opportunities to stay up to date with the latest trends and technologies in nursing. The Sheila A. Burke Memorial Scholarship would be an invaluable resource in helping me achieve my goals. It would provide me with the financial support I need to focus on my studies and gain the necessary skills to become a successful nurse. With this scholarship, I would be one step closer to making my vision a reality. In conclusion, my vision for myself as a nurse is to own a pediatric clinic in an underrepresented area and provide quality care to children who need it most. I want to create a space where every child feels special and loved. I am committed to working hard to achieve this dream, and I am excited about the journey ahead. With the support of the Sheila A. Burke Memorial Scholarship, I am confident that I can make a significant impact in the field of nursing and improve the lives of many children.