My name is Julia Chopis, and I am a recent high school graduate who also completed a dual enrollment program, earning my associate degree before turning nineteen. My journey started when my parents came to the United States from Brazil with nothing but hope and the desire to build a better life for their children. Growing up in an immigrant household taught me resilience, sacrifice, and the importance of hard work. I took on many responsibilities at a young age, especially helping raise my younger siblings while balancing school, part-time work, and babysitting. Those experiences shaped me into someone who puts others first, which is why I am pursuing a career in nursing. Heavy metal music has been a surprising but powerful companion throughout this journey. It is more than a genre to me. It is a way of expressing the emotions I often hide behind a calm face. Whether it is stress from exams or the weight of daily responsibilities, heavy metal reminds me that strength can sound like chaos and that we can find beauty and power in even the loudest, most emotional moments. It gives me a space to feel fully, and that emotional connection has helped me stay grounded and focused. My academic goal is to become a registered nurse with a specialization in either pediatrics or labor and delivery. I want to provide comfort and care to children and new mothers during some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives. As someone who often translates and explains things for my own family, I understand how scary it can be to navigate healthcare without the right support or language. I hope to work in communities like mine and eventually help open a clinic that offers bilingual healthcare services and family-centered health education. I do not just want to be a nurse who gives medicine. I want to be someone who listens, advocates, and makes every patient feel seen and respected. This scholarship would help me more than words can explain. Although my parents work very hard, they cannot afford to cover the full cost of college. I currently work part-time and babysit to help with household expenses and save for school. Even with federal financial aid, there are still many costs I have to consider including textbooks, uniforms, supplies, clinical equipment, and transportation. Winning this scholarship would remove a huge financial burden and allow me to focus on becoming the best nurse I can be without constantly worrying about how I will afford the next semester. To pay for my education, I plan to continue working part-time while attending school full-time. I have applied for federal student aid and have received some support, but it will not be enough to cover all my expenses. I want to avoid taking on large student loans because I know they could delay my plans to support my family and give back to my community. Every scholarship I apply for brings me closer to my goals, and this one in particular would allow me to breathe and move forward with confidence. Heavy metal has taught me that there is strength in being loud, real, and unapologetically yourself. It has helped me express emotions that I do not always know how to say out loud. In the same way, nursing allows me to channel my compassion and strength into something meaningful. Whether it is caring for a crying baby or helping a mother through labor, I want to show up for people with the same kind of fire and purpose that heavy metal inspires in me. Thank you for taking the time to consider my application. I am ready to work hard, help others, and carry this opportunity forward in everything I do.

From a very young age, I knew I wanted to become a nurse. I remember watching my mom come home after long shifts in the emergency room. She was often tired, but she always seemed proud of the work she did. The way she talked about her patients, her coworkers, and everything that happened during her day really stuck with me. She showed me what it meant to care for people during some of the hardest times in their lives. Her strength, kindness, and dedication made me want to be like her. Watching her balance compassion with confidence inspired me to start dreaming of becoming a nurse myself. Ever since I was a little girl, I’ve been fascinated by hospitals and medicine. I would watch videos about hospital life, emergency care, and surgeries, completely glued to the screen. I loved learning about how the human body works, and I was always curious about different diseases and how they were treated. Even now, I still enjoy reading and watching anything related to health and the human body. It amazes me how everything in the body is connected and how healthcare professionals can help people heal through knowledge, care, and quick thinking. What I love most about nursing is how hands-on and personal it is. Nurses are right there with patients, giving comfort, answering questions, and helping them through stressful or scary moments. I want to be someone who can offer both medical support and emotional reassurance. I believe nursing is one of the most meaningful ways to help people, and that’s something I’ve always been passionate about. Every day is different in nursing, and I know that will keep me motivated to keep learning and growing in my career. I’m especially interested in emergency medicine, like my mom, because of how fast-paced and unpredictable it can be. I like the idea of thinking on my feet and being able to respond quickly in high-pressure situations. It’s not easy, but I know it would be rewarding to stay calm and focused when others are in crisis. That’s the kind of nurse I want to be—someone dependable, knowledgeable, and caring. In the end, my decision to become a nurse comes from my lifelong interest in health and medicine, my admiration for my mom, and my desire to help people in a real and meaningful way. I can’t think of a more fulfilling path than being there for others when they need it most. I found this scholarship on Bold.org.

As a young child, I have always imagined having a job where I could help people, especially kids. At one point, I wanted to be a teacher because I loved the idea of working with kids and sharing knowledge. There’s something magical about guiding someone, especially young minds, to learn and grow. Teachers make such a meaningful impact on their students, and I admired that. I envisioned myself creating fun lessons, helping kids discover their passions, and making a difference in their lives. However, as I grew older and began learning more about the human body, my interests shifted. I took science classes and was fascinated by how everything in the body works together. The complexity and beauty of human physiology sparked a new dream: to pursue a career in nursing. Nursing seemed like a perfect fit because it combined my desire to help people with my passion for science and healthcare. While I wouldn’t be in a classroom teaching, I realized I could still make a difference by educating patients and their families about their health and well-being. Sharing knowledge in this way would allow me to continue teaching in a more personal, impactful setting. My interest specifically lies in working as a labor and delivery nurse or a pediatric nurse. I love the idea of helping mothers bring new life into the world and being there to support families during such a significant moment. Alternatively, working with children as a pediatric nurse would allow me to help young patients through challenges while offering them and their parents comfort and care. Both specialties align with my initial desire to work with kids while fulfilling my passion for medicine and human connection. Although my career path changed from teaching to nursing, the core of my aspiration—to help and support others—remains the same. Teaching and nursing share a unique overlap: they’re both about connecting with people, providing guidance, and leaving a positive impact. Whether it’s teaching a child how to read or helping a new mom through delivery, both roles require patience, empathy, and a genuine desire to make a difference. In many ways, my childhood dream is still part of my career path. Nursing allows me to blend my love for caring for others with my interest in science, making it a rewarding career that fulfills both passions. I’m excited to grow in this field and see how my journey unfolds!

Breast health education holds a critical place in both individual well-being and public health. It empowers people to make informed decisions about their bodies, seek timely medical care, and advocate for themselves in a system that often marginalizes underrepresented communities. Annie Pringle’s legacy as a teacher, mother, and advocate for breast health exemplifies the profound impact of education and support on those navigating complex and often frightening health concerns. Her story inspires me to continue her mission of uplifting and supporting others in the breast health community. One of the biggest barriers to addressing breast health issues is the lack of access to accurate information and qualified professionals. Many individuals, especially those from underserved populations, are unaware of the early warning signs of conditions like breast cancer, or they may lack the resources to seek preventive care. These disparities are further exacerbated for members of the LGBTQ+ community, who may face stigma or inadequate care from providers untrained in their unique needs. By pursuing a career in healthcare, I hope to bridge these gaps and ensure that all individuals, regardless of their background, receive compassionate and equitable care. My journey into healthcare began with a fascination for biology and a desire to make a tangible difference in people’s lives. As a dual-degree student, I began college full-time at 15, balancing rigorous coursework with personal responsibilities at home and extracurricular activities. This early start taught me resilience, time management, and the importance of perseverance—qualities I will bring to my career in healthcare. During my first semesters, I was immersed in courses like anatomy, physiology, and psychology, which deepened my understanding of the human body and the interconnectedness of physical and mental health. In addition to my academic pursuits, I co-founded a club for students in dual-degree programs to foster collaboration and mutual support. This experience strengthened my leadership skills and reinforced my belief in the power of education to transform lives. It also made me realize the importance of creating inclusive spaces where everyone feels valued, a principle I hope to carry into my healthcare career. Breast health education is particularly important to me because of its potential to save lives and alleviate suffering. Simple knowledge—such as how to perform self-exams, recognize early symptoms, or access screenings—can make the difference between early detection and a late-stage diagnosis. I am especially passionate about addressing the unique barriers faced by marginalized communities, including nonbinary and transgender individuals, who are often overlooked in discussions about breast health. By providing education and advocating for inclusive healthcare practices, I hope to ensure that everyone has access to the support they need. Annie Pringle’s life exemplifies the profound impact of compassion and knowledge on individuals facing breast health challenges. Through my education and future career, I aim to honor her legacy by providing not only medical care but also the understanding and support that every patient deserves. Breast health education is not just a professional interest for me—it is a calling to make a difference, one life at a time.

Throughout my academic journey, I have often found myself going above and beyond to achieve my goals, exemplifying the "hungry" pillar. As a dual-degree student, I took up to four college classes daily while balancing responsibilities at home, participating in Jiu-Jitsu, working in competitions selling smoothies, and maintaining my studies. Juggling these demands required immense discipline, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to my future in the medical field. During my first semesters of college, I was enrolled in challenging courses such as biology, anatomy, chemistry, psychology, and philosophy. One particular situation stands out where I had to complete four major papers and take three final exams within a tight timeframe. Despite the overwhelming workload, I stayed focused and developed a structured schedule to manage my responsibilities. I broke down my tasks into manageable sections, prioritized deadlines, and made the most of every available moment to study and write. By staying organized and committed, I achieved A’s in all my classes, exceeding not only my expectations but also those of my professors and peers. The experience taught me how to perform under pressure while maintaining high standards for myself. Additionally, I co-founded a club with a classmate called the "Scholars Society," aimed at supporting students in dual-degree programs. We created a space where students could connect, share resources, and provide mutual encouragement as we navigated the challenges of balancing high school and college coursework. This initiative not only strengthened my leadership skills but also had a tangible impact on the academic and personal success of our members. Witnessing the growth and camaraderie among peers made me even more motivated to foster supportive environments for others. These experiences embodied the "hungry" pillar because they required me to push myself beyond my limits to excel academically and support others. The discipline and determination I demonstrated have prepared me for the challenges of a nursing career, where persistence and a strong work ethic are essential. The impact of my efforts extended beyond my personal achievements—I helped foster a supportive community for my peers and set an example of what can be accomplished with hard work and determination. Looking back, these experiences have instilled in me the importance of perseverance, organization, and a commitment to continuous improvement—qualities I will carry with me as I strive to make a meaningful difference in the medical field. They have shown me that even in the face of challenges, staying focused and driven can lead to incredible growth and success.

I am an immigrant from São Paulo, Brazil, who moved to the United States at a young age. Adjusting to a new culture and language was challenging, but it taught me resilience and adaptability—qualities that have shaped who I am today. Growing up, I always had a deep interest in science, particularly biology and human anatomy, and I found myself fascinated by how the body works and heals. My curiosity about the human body only grew as I advanced in my education, and I realized that the medical field offered a way for me to combine my passion for science with my desire to make a positive impact on others’ lives. Throughout my academic career, I have worked hard to balance multiple responsibilities, including my studies, extracurricular activities, and personal commitments. I started college full-time at 15, completing two years of college while still in high school. This unique experience allowed me to complete my associate’s degree before graduating from high school. I am currently a dual-degree student, pursuing both my nursing degree and additional coursework to further my career in healthcare. The opportunity to take college classes at such a young age taught me discipline, time management, and the importance of focusing on long-term goals. What truly inspired me to pursue a career in the medical field was not only my fascination with the human body but also my desire to help others. I have always found satisfaction in seeing the positive results of hard work, whether it was through academic achievements or helping others. This drive to help others has been further reinforced by my involvement in martial arts and running a student club, where I’ve learned about leadership, responsibility, and perseverance. The opportunity to guide and support others, whether in the classroom or on the mat, has given me the confidence to pursue a career where I can make a difference. One of my greatest inspirations has been my family, particularly my mother, who always encouraged me to pursue my dreams despite the challenges we faced as immigrants. Her strength and determination in providing for our family have shown me the importance of compassion, hard work, and the impact one person can have on others. My mother’s commitment to our well-being has shaped my own values and drives my desire to pursue a career in nursing, where I can give back and make a meaningful impact on people’s lives. Ultimately, I want to pursue a career in nursing because it offers the perfect combination of science, care, and compassion. It will allow me to use my knowledge, skills, and personal experiences to make a tangible difference in the lives of others.

Throughout my academic journey, I’ve had to balance multiple responsibilities, often pushing myself to the limit. As a dual-degree student, I took up to four college classes a day, all while helping at home and studying in the evenings. I also dedicated significant time to practicing Jiu-Jitsu, which taught me discipline, perseverance, and the importance of time management. One situation that truly exemplifies the **"hungry"** pillar—having a strong drive to continually grow and exceed expectations—occurred during my first semesters of college, when I was managing a heavy workload, personal responsibilities, and my extracurricular commitments. Being a dual-degree student means pursuing two academic paths simultaneously. In my case, I worked toward both my high school diploma and an associate’s degree. I started college full-time at 15, completing two years of college courses while still attending high school, and will graduate with my associate’s degree before finishing high school. Balancing the demands of these two programs was challenging but allowed me to get a head start on my education and solidify my academic foundation. During this time, I also founded a club with a classmate for scholars in the program, providing support and resources to fellow students, helping them navigate the challenges of balancing academics and personal commitments. This was an important part of my journey because it allowed me to connect with others, share experiences, and learn how to be a leader. During this time, I was juggling challenging courses like biology, anatomy, chemistry, psychology, and math. In one particular week, I faced the challenge of writing four papers and taking three final exams, all within a very short time frame. With so much to learn and accomplish in such a limited period, the pressure was immense. However, I remained focused and organized, developing a strict study schedule to balance everything. Despite the time constraints, I pushed myself to stay disciplined and efficient, ensuring that I gave my best effort to each task. Through careful time management and perseverance, I was able to complete all the papers and exams on time and received A's in every subject. This experience exemplified the **"hungry"** pillar by pushing me to not only meet but exceed expectations, even under pressure. It reinforced my belief that with the right mindset and determination, it’s possible to accomplish great things, no matter the obstacles. It also showed me the power of discipline, time management, and resilience—qualities that will continue to serve me as I move forward in my nursing career. These experiences have shaped my commitment to making a difference in healthcare, as I know the importance of being prepared, focused, and driven.

Growing up in Brazil, I witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by families in underprivileged communities. As a child, I watched my mother tirelessly care for those around her, often prioritizing others’ needs above her own. Her selflessness and resilience became my greatest source of inspiration. Moving to the United States in fourth grade was a daunting experience, filled with cultural and linguistic barriers. Yet, it was through these struggles that I discovered my passion for learning about the human body and my drive to make a meaningful impact. My fascination with the body started in middle school during a science class where I learned about the intricate systems that keep us alive. This curiosity deepened as I enrolled in dual-degree college courses at my community college, studying anatomy, biology, and physiology. These classes not only provided me with a solid foundation in understanding the human body but also solidified my desire to pursue nursing. Starting college full-time at 15, I quickly adapted to the rigors of higher education while balancing my passion for healthcare with my commitment to academic excellence. These experiences have reinforced my desire to pursue a career where I can make a real difference in people’s lives. Nursing is more than a career to me; it’s a commitment to service. I hope to carry on the values of compassion, perseverance, and advocacy that Cindy exemplified. Like her, I aspire to touch lives—not just by addressing physical ailments but by listening to patients’ stories, understanding their fears, and standing beside them during vulnerable moments. I love seeing the results of my work pay off, just like in nursing, where helping patients get better brings a sense of accomplishment and purpose. My goal is to work in underserved communities, providing care to those who often feel overlooked by the healthcare system. I want to be a voice for those who cannot advocate for themselves and ensure they receive the dignity and respect they deserve. Through my nursing career, I hope to inspire others, much like my mother inspired me. I want to show that no matter where you come from or the obstacles you face, you can make a difference. Nursing combines my love for science, my passion for understanding the human experience, and my desire to create meaningful change. Cindy’s legacy reminds me that the impact of kindness and dedication is boundless. By following her example, I aim to leave a lasting mark on my community and the lives of those I care for.

Music has woven itself into the very fabric of my life throughout my high school years, acting as a reliable companion that I can turn to for various needs. Whether I’m looking for an energy boost, a surge of focus, or a pick-me-up for my mood, music has consistently been there for me. The genres I gravitate toward—rap, R&B, and pop—have proven particularly beneficial in helping me navigate the emotional rollercoaster that often comes with academic life. No matter if I'm studying, exercising, or simply trying to stay positive amid the stresses of schoolwork, music has provided a comforting backdrop. When it comes to studying, I've found that R&B and softer rap tracks suit me best. The steady, soothing beats create an atmosphere conducive to concentration, providing just enough rhythm to keep my mind engaged without veering into distraction. For instance, SZA’s evocative tracks like "Good Days" and "Broken Clocks" wrap around me like a warm blanket, their calming vibes enabling me to focus deeply on my studies. In addition, J. Cole’s albums are staples in my study playlist; his introspective and thought-provoking lyrics combined with smooth, mellow beats create a serene background that enhances my learning experience. This music acts as a mental tonic, helping me to tune out the noise of the world around me and dive headfirst into my assignments, creating a productive bubble where I can thrive. In contrast, when it’s time to exercise or gear up for significant exams, rap becomes my ultimate source of motivation. The confidence-infused beats and powerful lyrics ignite an unstoppable energy within me, pushing me to perform at my best. Kendrick Lamar’s tracks, especially "DNA" and "HUMBLE", find their way into my workout playlists, serving as the perfect soundtrack for pushing through those last painful reps or staying focused on my goals. His fierce lyrics remind me of my strength, invigorating me to tackle any obstacle in my path. Similarly, Lil Baby’s tracks like "Drip Too Hard" and "Emotionally Scarred" resonate deeply, emphasizing the importance of hard work and resilience. These anthems serve as powerful reminders that perseverance is key, motivating me to keep striving for success despite any setbacks. Pop music occupies a vital space in my life, acting as a catalyst for lifting my spirits and maintaining a positive outlook. Whenever I need a quick mood boost, I turn to the upbeat tracks of artists like Dua Lipa and The Weekend. Songs like "Blinding Lights" and "Don’t Start Now" are infectious in their energy and always manage to put a smile on my face. Even on particularly stressful or overwhelming days, just a few minutes of these vibrant pop tunes can shift my perspective and remind me of the joy in the present moment. They serve as a reminder to dance through life, even when it’s challenging. In summary, music has been my steadfast ally through the complexities of high school. It helps me focus deeply during study sessions, fuels my motivation during workouts, and uplifts my spirits when I need a positive boost. Through its different genres, music has not only accompanied me but has played an essential role in shaping my experiences, becoming an indelible part of my personal journey.

From a young age, I felt like I was on a path that not many people around me understood. When I moved from São Paulo, Brazil, to the U.S. in fourth grade, I faced huge cultural and language barriers that made me feel like an outsider a lot of the time. Adapting to a new culture was tough, but I saw it as a chance to grow and find others who felt the same way. Those early experiences taught me how to be resilient and showed me just how important it is to have a supportive community, which has shaped everything I do. Choosing nursing as a career felt like my way of challenging expectations. My family has always supported me, but this path was definitely unexpected—especially considering how hard it was just to adjust to a new country. But I was determined to make a difference in healthcare, to be someone who can understand and advocate for immigrants like me. In high school, I joined a dual enrollment program where I’m working toward an associate degree at the same time as my high school diploma. It’s a pretty intense program, and honestly, it wasn’t something anyone imagined I’d be doing when I first moved here. In fact, I’m one of only two students in my entire class taking on this dual path. Balancing college coursework, running a school club, and participating in martial arts has taught me so much. Juggling all these responsibilities hasn’t been easy, but it’s helped me become way better at managing my time, staying organized, and pushing through even when things feel overwhelming. Each activity has pushed me to grow in different ways—college work has challenged me academically, leading a club has taught me leadership skills, and martial arts has strengthened my discipline and resilience. This journey has been meaningful for me and my family. They’re really proud, seeing this as proof that all the sacrifices we made to come here were worth it. For me, this experience has shown me the power of empathy and inclusivity, which is exactly what I want to bring into nursing. I want to be there for patients who might feel lost or misunderstood in the healthcare system, just like I once felt. Moving forward, I’ll carry the lessons of resilience and adaptability with me, and I hope to make healthcare a more welcoming place for everyone—especially immigrant and minority communities who need someone on their side. These experiences have shaped who I am and what I want to do, making me even more determined to help others feel seen and supported.

As a first-generation immigrant from Brazil, I have faced and overcome many challenges in adapting to a new culture and mastering a new language since arriving in the fourth grade. These experiences have shaped me into a resilient individual, and they’ve driven me to pursue a career in nursing. Along with this, I have developed a strong belief in the power of natural medicine, and I am passionate about integrating holistic practices into healthcare. Currently, I am part of a dual degree program. Balancing the demands of high school and college as a sophomore, preparing for a future in nursing with a focus on natural and preventative care. This scholarship would have a profound impact on my journey, allowing me to alleviate some of the financial pressures that come with being a dual-enrolled student. Without the added burden of financial stress, I could dedicate more time to my studies, extracurricular activities, and clinical experiences, all of which will help me become a well-rounded nurse. The funding would also allow me to continue my education in holistic health and deepen my understanding of natural remedies, mindfulness, and other integrative treatments. Holistic health is a field that I believe can transform the way we approach care, and I am committed to exploring how these practices can complement traditional nursing. In my view, healthcare should address the whole person—body, mind, and spirit. As a nurse, I want to provide care that is not only focused on treating physical ailments but also on understanding the emotional and mental well-being of my patients. The importance of natural medicine, including diet, herbal treatments, and stress reduction techniques, is often overlooked in conventional settings, yet these practices can play a crucial role in promoting overall health. With this scholarship, I would be able to gain the necessary knowledge and skills to bring holistic care into mainstream healthcare, making it more accessible to those who need it most. My ultimate goal is to empower patients with the tools they need to improve their health holistically, incorporating natural remedies and preventative practices alongside traditional treatments. I want to help people make informed decisions about their health that lead to lasting wellness, and this scholarship would be a critical step in making that vision a reality. With this funding, I can continue to pursue my passion for holistic healing and make a meaningful impact on the health and well-being of others.

From a young age, I felt like I was on a path that not many people around me understood. When I moved from São Paulo, Brazil, to the U.S. in fourth grade, I faced huge cultural and language barriers that made me feel like an outsider a lot of the time. Adapting to a new culture was tough, but I saw it as a chance to grow and find others who felt the same way. Those early experiences taught me how to be resilient and showed me just how important it is to have a supportive community, which has shaped everything I do. Choosing nursing as a career felt like my way of challenging expectations. My family has always supported me, but this path was definitely unexpected—especially considering how hard it was just to adjust to a new country. But I was determined to make a difference in healthcare, to be someone who can understand and advocate for immigrants like me. In high school, I joined a dual enrollment program where I’m working toward an associate degree at the same time as my high school diploma. It’s a pretty intense program, and honestly, it wasn’t something anyone imagined I’d be doing when I first moved here. In fact, I’m one of only two students in my entire class taking on this dual path. Balancing college coursework, running a school club, and participating in martial arts has taught me so much. Juggling all these responsibilities hasn’t been easy, but it’s helped me become way better at managing my time, staying organized, and pushing through even when things feel overwhelming. Each activity has pushed me to grow in different ways—college work has challenged me academically, leading a club has taught me leadership skills, and martial arts has strengthened my discipline and resilience. This journey has been meaningful for me and my family. They’re really proud, seeing this as proof that all the sacrifices we made to come here were worth it. For me, this experience has shown me the power of empathy and inclusivity, which is exactly what I want to bring into nursing. I want to be there for patients who might feel lost or misunderstood in the healthcare system, just like I once felt. Moving forward, I’ll carry the lessons of resilience and adaptability with me, and I hope to make healthcare a more welcoming place for everyone—especially immigrant and minority communities who need someone on their side. These experiences have shaped who I am and what I want to do, making me even more determined to help others feel seen and supported.

Hello, my name is Julia, and I am part of the dual enrollment program at my high school. I joined a two-year program in my junior year of high school. I will be graduating in the spring of 2025 with both a high school diploma and an associate's degree. My high school offered a program for upcoming juniors to apply to. At first, I was a little nervous about joining this program along with some other high schoolers from the neighboring schools. But it was the best decision I have ever made for myself. Now, I am currently enrolled in college taking classes for my associates and perquisites for nursing schools. My decision to become a nurse was not always set in stone. When I was younger, I always enjoyed playing with dolls. I would pretend to be their teacher, doctor, mom, grocery store clerk, and friend all the time. I have always wanted to be a teacher to help kids learn. The idea of having my classroom stood out to me for years. But after dealing with sicknesses in my family, my path changed. So, I started looking toward being a psychiatrist. However, something did not feel right. And after researching, I figured out that would not be the right job for me. I wanted something flexible and active. I have always preferred a busier lifestyle. Sitting in office chairs for hours every week was not something that I wanted. I know a couple of nurses who enjoy their jobs a lot and tell me all about the things they learned. After hearing those experiences, I decided to shift my focus more toward nursing. I began to research some more; I decided that nursing would be the right career for me. I thought how cool it would be to work in a hospital setting moving around to help people. I like learning things about the human body and how to deal with those things. As well as helping others in need. I believe that being a nurse could change the world, maybe not the whole world, but a person's world. Helping save just one person's life might not seem like a big deal for many, but for that person's family, it means the world. I truly believe it is important to have access to healthcare, especially during hospital staff shortages. i I will use this scholarship towards my BSN program in the fall of 2025. This money will help me pay for college and allow me to get one step closer to my goals!

Hi, My name is Julia, and I am part of a dual enrollment program at my high school. I am a senior and full-time college student. This is my second year towards getting my associates degree. I am in pre-nursing right now and plan to transfer to a university in the fall of 2025. I plan to attend in order to purse my bachelor's in science of nursing (BSN). My first language is Portuguese! I was born and raised in Sao Paulo, Brazil. I moved to Chicago, Illinois when I was 8. As soon as I moved, I started attending fourth grade. It was extremely hard to communicate with others since I did not know any English. I would try to talk to the kids who spoke Spanish in my class since it was the closest thing to Portuguese. But even then, a lot of words were easily misinterpreted. I was put into a special class for kids who were new to country and that helped me learn a lot of new English words. I also practiced learning on my own at home through books and worksheets. Other things that helped me learn a new language was watching movies and reading the captions to connect the word to the pronunciation. There are many challenges and benefits to being bilingual. The biggest benefit is being able to communicate to two large groups of people. For example, when I visit Brazil, I am able to talk to everyone there fluently. When I am in the US, I can also talk to anyone here fluently. Another benefit of speaking two languages is having the basic understanding of what learning a language is like for you. Some of my family members also speak Spanish. Therefore, when I was attempting to learn a third language, I knew exactly what to do and not do. I knew that I had to start with the basic words, and I began using an app to help me do that. I also took honors Spanish during my first two years of high school. I aced all my homework, quizzes, and exams with A's. To everything that is beneficial, there are some challenges. A challenge about being bilingual is sometimes mixing words from both languages in the same sentence. Or forgetting a specific word in the other language when trying to explain something to another person. Overall, I think that there are a lot more pros about being fluent in two languages than pros. I enjoy being able to communicate to broader groups of people in both languages.

Hello, My name is Julia and I am part of the dual enrollment program at my high school. I joined a two-year long program my junior year of high school. I will be graduating in the spring of 2025 with both a high school diploma and an associate's degree. My high school offered a program for upcoming juniors to apply to. At first, I was a little nervous about joining this program along with some other high schoolers from the neighboring schools. But it was the best decision I have ever made for myself. Now, I am currently enrolled in college taking classes for my associates and perquisites for nursing schools. My decision of becoming a nurse was not always set in stone. When I was younger, I always enjoyed playing with dolls. I would pretend to be their teacher, doctor, mom, grocery store clerk, and friend all the time. I have always wanted to be a teacher to help kids learn. The idea of having my own classroom really stood out to me for years. But after dealing with sicknesses in my family, my path changed. So I started looking toward being a psychiatrist. However, something did not feel right. But after researching, I figured out that would not be the right job for me. I wanted something flexible and active. I have always preferred a busier lifestyle. Sitting in office chairs for hours every week was not something that I wanted. I know a couple of nurses that enjoy their jobs and tell me all about the things they learned. After hearing those experiences, I decided to shift my focus more towards nursing. I began to research some more; I decided that nursing would be the right career for me. I thought how cool it would be to work in a hospital setting moving around to help people. I like learning things about the human body and how to deal with those things. As well as helping others in need. I believe that being a nurse could change the world, maybe not the whole world, but a person's world. Helping save just one person's life might not seem like a big deal for many, but for that person's family it means the world. I just want to be able to help get people better. I truly believe it is important to have access to healthcare, especially during hospital staff shortages.

Hello, My name is Julia and I am part of the dual enrollment program at my high school. I joined a two-year long program my junior year of high school. I will be graduating in the spring of 2025 with both a high school diploma and an associate's degree. My high school offered a program for upcoming juniors to apply to. At first, I was a little nervous about joining this program along with some other high schoolers from the neighboring schools. But it was the best decision I have ever made for myself. Now, I am currently enrolled in college taking classes for my associates and perquisites for nursing schools. My decision of becoming a nurse was not always set in stone. When I was younger, I always enjoyed playing with dolls. I would pretend to be their teacher, doctor, mom, grocery store clerk, and friend all the time. I have always wanted to be a teacher to help kids learn. The idea of having my own classroom really stood out to me for years. But after dealing with sicknesses in my family, my path changed. So I started looking toward being a psychiatrist. However, something did not feel right. But after researching, I figured out that would not be the right job for me. I wanted something flexible and active. I have always preferred a busier lifestyle. Sitting in office chairs for hours every week was not something that I wanted. I know a couple of nurses that enjoy their jobs and tell me all about the things they learned. After hearing those experiences, I decided to shift my focus more towards nursing. I began to research some more; I decided that nursing would be the right career for me. I thought how cool it would be to work in a hospital setting moving around to help people. I like learning things about the human body and how to deal with those things. As well as helping others in need. I believe that being a nurse could change the world, maybe not the whole world, but a person's world. Helping save just one person's life might not seem like a big deal for many, but for that person's family it means the world. I just want to be able to help get people better. I truly believe it is important to have access to healthcare, especially during hospital staff shortages.