I am currently in my third quarter of a six-quarter Associate Degree in Nursing program, and the journey that brought me here has been anything but traditional—but every step has led me closer to where I am meant to be. Before entering nursing school, I served for eight years in the United States Air Force not knowing what I wanted to do in life. Luckily, I landed a role as an Aerospace Medical Technician, where I worked in a wide range of settings—from routine sick calls to emergency trauma response—providing direct care to service members, their families, and civilian communities. My time in the military taught me discipline, adaptability, and how to remain calm under pressure. More importantly, it taught me the value of service and the profound impact of compassionate care. While I originally joined the military to build stability and gain experience in healthcare, I quickly realized that I was most fulfilled when I could care for others—not just physically, but emotionally and holistically. After completing my military service, I knew I wanted to continue in healthcare, but I also knew I wanted a deeper role in the patient experience. I explored a few different paths, including emergency medicine and public health, but nursing kept calling me back. Nursing offered the hands-on, patient-centered connection I was missing, along with the opportunity to grow, specialize, and lead throughout my career. So, I made the decision to return to school and pursue my ADN as the first step toward becoming a registered nurse. My true “aha” moment came during my sister’s cancer treatment. She was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin lymphoma, and although the diagnosis was devastating, the care she received from her oncology nurses made an incredible difference in her recovery—and in our family’s emotional well-being. I watched as they managed her complex treatments while still taking the time to check in with her as a person. They educated us, reassured us, and created a space where we felt safe even in the most uncertain moments. That was the moment I knew I didn’t just want to work in healthcare—I wanted to be that kind of caregiver. I wanted to become a nurse. Returning to school has come with challenges. As a nontraditional student, a veteran, and a career-switcher, I’ve had to balance academics, family responsibilities, and a demanding clinical schedule. But each time I step into the classroom or into a patient’s room, I’m reminded why I chose this path. I bring with me a wealth of experience, a strong sense of purpose, and a desire to serve with integrity and empathy. Now, I’m committed to becoming an oncology nurse who offers not only clinical expertise, but also comfort, advocacy, and education. I know firsthand how powerful a nurse can be in a person’s life, and I’m proud to be working toward that role. This is more than a career for me—it’s a calling, and I’m honored to be walking this path.

I want to pursue a degree in nursing because I believe it is one of the most meaningful ways to serve others and create real, lasting impact. My passion for healthcare began during my eight years of service as a medic in the United States Air Force. In that role, I provided care in fast-paced, high-pressure situations, treating everything from minor injuries to life-threatening conditions. It was in these moments—when patients were scared, in pain, or uncertain—that I learned the true power of compassionate care. Those experiences shaped my identity as a caregiver and inspired me to continue my service through the nursing profession. Nursing offers the opportunity to blend clinical expertise with empathy, education, and human connection. I’ve always been drawn to roles that involve helping others navigate challenges, and nursing provides that platform on both an individual and community level. My ultimate goal is to become an oncology nurse, a path that has deep personal meaning for me. My sister’s experience with Non-Hodgkin lymphoma—and the extraordinary care she received from her nurses—showed me just how vital nurses are in the healing process. I want to be that steady, supportive presence for others facing similar journeys. Pursuing a nursing degree is the next essential step in equipping myself with the knowledge and skills needed to make a lasting difference. I’m currently in my third quarter of a six-quarter nursing program, and every clinical rotation reaffirms my commitment to this field. I see the direct impact nurses have, not just by managing physical symptoms, but by advocating for their patients, educating families, and building trust. I am motivated to grow into a nurse who leads with empathy and confidence, providing high-quality care across all aspects of a patient’s experience. As a nurse, I hope to contribute to my community by providing accessible, culturally competent, and inclusive care. I believe that every person—regardless of background, income, or circumstance—deserves to be treated with dignity and respect in healthcare settings. I want to work in local hospitals and clinics, particularly in underserved areas, where healthcare disparities are often the greatest. Additionally, I hope to use my military background to support fellow veterans and advocate for improved continuity of care for those transitioning from military to civilian life. In the future, I also plan to mentor other nursing students, especially those who may be nontraditional students like myself—veterans, career changers, or first-generation college students—because I know how valuable it is to feel seen and supported during such a transformative journey. Nursing is more than a degree to me—it’s a calling that represents compassion, resilience, and service. Through this career, I hope to not only treat illness but to uplift individuals, families, and communities. I’m honored to be on this path and excited to contribute to a healthier, more compassionate future

To me, becoming a nurse means becoming a trusted source of strength, knowledge, and compassion during some of the most critical and vulnerable moments in a person’s life. It means stepping into a role that is both a privilege and a responsibility—where science meets humanity, and where even the smallest actions can make a lasting impact. Nursing is not just a career path; it is a calling rooted in service, advocacy, and connection. My journey toward becoming a nurse began with eight years of service as a medic in the United States Air Force. In that role, I learned how to stay calm under pressure, how to care for patients from diverse backgrounds, and how to function as part of a team in high-stakes environments. I witnessed the importance of both technical skill and emotional intelligence, and I learned that being present and compassionate often matters just as much as performing a clinical task correctly. These experiences laid the foundation for my identity as a caregiver and sparked my desire to continue that work in a deeper, more holistic way—as a nurse. Becoming a nurse also holds profound personal meaning for me. My sister’s battle with Non-Hodgkin lymphoma showed me what exceptional nursing care looks like. The nurses who cared for her offered not just clinical expertise, but kindness, reassurance, and hope. They made a frightening and uncertain time feel a little more manageable—not only for my sister, but for our entire family. Seeing their impact firsthand inspired me to pursue oncology nursing, where I hope to provide the same level of support, presence, and advocacy for others facing similar battles. Nursing is a profession that calls for heart, humility, and lifelong learning. It means being willing to sit with patients in their pain, celebrate with them in their victories, and fight for them when they cannot fight for themselves. It means listening, educating, comforting, and sometimes simply being there. I believe nurses are the backbone of healthcare, the ones who bridge the gap between clinical care and human connection. As I progress through my nursing program, I carry these values with me in every class, clinical rotation, and patient interaction. I am committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered care grounded in empathy, respect, and evidence-based practice. Becoming a nurse also means stepping into a leadership role—whether by mentoring peers, advocating for better patient outcomes, or promoting equity in access to care. Ultimately, becoming a nurse means making a lifelong commitment to serve others with integrity, compassion, and skill. It is the culmination of my personal experiences, military service, and deep desire to help people heal—not just physically, but emotionally and spiritually as well. I look forward to becoming the kind of nurse who makes a difference, one patient at a time.

My name is Kali Jan Alhambra, and I am currently a nursing student in my third quarter of a six-quarter program. My journey into nursing is rooted in a lifetime of service, personal growth, and a deep desire to care for others in their most vulnerable moments. Before starting nursing school, I spent eight years as a medic in the United States Air Force, where I provided care in both high-intensity and routine medical settings. That experience shaped my values and sharpened my skills, giving me a strong foundation in clinical judgment, adaptability, and patient-centered care. Serving in the military taught me that healthcare is more than a profession—it’s a calling. Whether treating acute injuries or supporting long-term recovery, I saw firsthand how compassion, presence, and clear communication could make all the difference. My time as a medic not only helped me build resilience and skill under pressure, but it also sparked my commitment to lifelong service in healthcare. However, it was my sister’s experience with cancer that ultimately inspired me to pursue a career in nursing—specifically in oncology. My sister is now in remission from Non-Hodgkin lymphoma, but her journey through diagnosis, treatment, and recovery deeply impacted me. The nurses who cared for her did far more than administer medications or monitor vitals; they offered empathy, guidance, and strength during one of the most uncertain times in her life. Watching them interact with her and our family made me realize that I wanted to be that kind of caregiver—to offer more than just medical care, but also hope and humanity. That experience motivated me to specialize in oncology nursing. I want to care for patients facing cancer with the same level of compassion and dedication that my sister received. Oncology is a field that demands not only clinical excellence but emotional presence, and I believe my background uniquely prepares me to meet those demands. As a veteran, I’ve learned how to remain calm and focused in high-stress environments, and as a sister, I’ve learned how powerful a nurse’s role can be in a patient’s healing journey. To prepare for this next step, I’ve immersed myself fully in my nursing education. I take every clinical opportunity seriously, seeking to connect theory to practice and to treat every patient interaction as a chance to grow. I also continue to build on my past leadership and mentoring experience by supporting fellow nursing students, especially those transitioning from military service like myself. I believe that peer support and shared experiences strengthen both individual nurses and the nursing profession as a whole. My ultimate goal is to become a compassionate, skilled oncology nurse who not only treats illness but supports the whole person. Nursing gives me the chance to combine science, service, and human connection in a meaningful way—and I am committed to using my education, experience, and heart to make a difference. Warmest regards, Kali Jan Alhambra

My decision to pursue a career in nursing is the result of both personal experience and professional growth, shaped over the course of several years. What began as a call to serve in the United States Air Force evolved into a lifelong mission to care for others—and that mission has led me to nursing. For eight years, I served as a medic in the Air Force. During that time, I had the privilege of working in diverse clinical environments, where I provided emergency and routine care to service members, veterans, and their families. The job required more than technical skill—it required compassion, calm under pressure, and the ability to connect with people from all walks of life. The sense of purpose I felt during those moments—especially when I could offer comfort and clarity in times of fear—sparked my desire to continue serving others through healthcare. However, I came to realize that I wanted to do more than provide episodic care; I wanted to build ongoing relationships with patients, to be part of their healing journeys, and to advocate for their well-being across all stages of life. That realization brought me to nursing. My path was solidified when my sister was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Watching her navigate the challenges of chemotherapy, remission, and recovery gave me a deeper understanding of what patients and families truly go through. More than anything, I remember the nurses—how they answered every question patiently, checked on her comfort without being asked, and held space for both tears and laughter. They didn’t just treat her illness; they treated her as a whole person. I saw firsthand how powerful nursing could be, and I knew that I wanted to offer others the same compassion and strength our family received during that time. Now, as a nursing student in my third quarter of a six-quarter program, I am more confident than ever that I am on the right path. Each clinical experience strengthens my skills and reminds me why I chose this field. I’ve cared for patients across the lifespan and witnessed the impact that nurses can have, not just through procedures, but through presence, empathy, and advocacy. Nursing offers the perfect blend of science, service, and human connection. It challenges me intellectually while also fulfilling my desire to make a meaningful impact. I plan to specialize in oncology nursing, where I can combine my personal understanding of cancer care with my professional background to support patients during some of life’s most difficult moments. Ultimately, I chose nursing because I want to be someone patients can count on—to listen, to educate, to comfort, and to act. I want to continue serving with integrity and compassion, just as I did in the military, but now within the context of patient care. This career is not just my next step—it’s my calling, and I am committed to it fully. I found out about this scholarship on the website—bold.org. Warmest regards, Kali Jan Alhambra

My goal is to become an oncology nurse, providing compassionate, high-quality care to individuals and families facing cancer. This award would help ease the financial burden of nursing school, allowing me to focus more fully on my education, clinical development, and future contributions to the profession. Before entering nursing school, I served eight years as a medic in the United States Air Force. That experience built a strong foundation in patient care, adaptability, and teamwork under pressure. It also ignited my passion for healthcare and confirmed my commitment to serving others. Now in my third quarter of a six-quarter nursing program, I continue to build on that foundation through academic excellence and hands-on clinical experience. A defining moment in my journey was my sister’s battle with Non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Her strength, and the compassionate care she received, inspired my decision to pursue oncology. I want to be the kind of nurse who not only treats symptoms, but also provides comfort, education, and emotional support through every stage of care. As a veteran, first-generation college student, and career-changer, I’ve overcome personal and financial obstacles to pursue my goals. I also strive to mentor fellow students—especially those with military backgrounds—and to advocate for inclusivity and resilience within healthcare. This award would support me as I continue to grow into a nurse who leads with integrity, empathy, and purpose. ——————- As a nursing student in California with a background in military healthcare, I strongly align with ACHE of SoCal’s mission to uplift devoted students pursuing healthcare careers. I am currently in my third quarter of a six-quarter nursing program, building on eight years of experience as a medic in the U.S. Air Force. That service instilled in me both clinical skills and a deep commitment to patient-centered care—values I carry with me in my nursing education. My long-term goal is to work as an oncology nurse, supporting patients and families through some of the most emotionally and physically difficult times of their lives. My sister’s journey with Non-Hodgkin lymphoma and the compassionate care she received inspired this path. I hope to provide the same level of empathy, education, and support to others—especially in communities where access to care and continuity can be challenging. ACHE of SoCal’s recognition of the urgent need to address healthcare workforce shortages directly reflects my motivation to enter the nursing profession. I believe lifting up future healthcare providers—especially those who have overcome financial or personal barriers—is essential to ensuring equitable, effective patient care across California. This scholarship would not only help alleviate the financial challenges of nursing school but also affirm my commitment to returning that support by serving patients and mentoring future healthcare students. I am proud to be part of the next generation of dedicated professionals ready to strengthen the future of healthcare.

My journey into healthcare began with eight years of service as a medic in the United States Air Force. During that time, I had the privilege of providing care in both emergency and routine medical settings, supporting service members, their families, and civilians in high-stress and often unpredictable environments. That experience shaped not only my clinical skills but also my deep respect for the power of compassionate, timely care. It also introduced me to the profound sense of purpose that comes from being present for others during moments of vulnerability, fear, and healing. What initially inspired me to get involved in healthcare was the drive to serve others and to be a reliable source of strength in difficult situations. As a medic, I learned that healthcare is not just about procedures and protocols—it’s about people. It’s about building trust, listening without judgment, and showing up with empathy, even when answers are hard to come by. These values became the foundation of my professional identity and ultimately inspired me to pursue a career in nursing. I am currently in my third quarter of a six-quarter nursing program, continuing my transition from military to civilian healthcare. While the learning curve has been steep at times, I am constantly motivated by the impact nurses can have—not only on physical health, but on emotional well-being and overall quality of life. My clinical rotations have further strengthened my passion for nursing, allowing me to apply my skills in a new context while continuing to grow and adapt as a caregiver. One of the most defining moments in my journey came when my sister was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Watching her go through chemotherapy and eventually reach remission was both painful and inspiring. The oncology nurses who cared for her did far more than administer treatment—they listened, encouraged, and became part of her support system. Their presence made a profound difference in her recovery, and witnessing their work first-hand solidified my decision to specialize in oncology nursing. In the future, I hope to make a difference by providing patient-centered, holistic care to individuals and families facing cancer. I want to be a consistent source of support for people going through the most difficult chapters of their lives—someone who brings not only clinical competence, but also calm, compassion, and hope. I also hope to use my background as a veteran to support other transitioning service members and to advocate for underserved communities within the healthcare system. Nursing is more than a career to me—it is a calling rooted in service, resilience, and humanity. I am grateful for every opportunity to learn, grow, and give back, and I am committed to using my experience to make a positive and lasting impact in the healthcare field.

I am currently in my third quarter of a six-quarter nursing program, and my journey toward becoming a nurse has been both challenging and deeply rewarding. Receiving this scholarship will not only provide essential financial support but will also reaffirm my commitment to serving others through nursing. It motivates me to keep striving toward excellence, knowing that others believe in my potential to make a meaningful difference in the field. Before beginning nursing school, I served for eight years as a medic in the United States Air Force. That experience shaped me into a calm, focused, and compassionate caregiver—skills I now bring with me into every patient interaction. I’ve worked in fast-paced, high-pressure environments where life depended on precision, teamwork, and empathy. These lessons have guided me through my nursing education and will continue to shape my approach to care throughout my career. Outside of the classroom, I actively seek opportunities to grow both clinically and personally. Whether it’s learning new skills during clinical rotations or reflecting on patient experiences, I am constantly working to develop the judgment and emotional intelligence necessary to be a truly effective nurse. I believe that great nursing goes beyond technical skill—it requires presence, humility, and a commitment to each patient’s dignity. My long-term goal is to work in oncology nursing, a path that holds deep personal meaning. My sister is currently in remission from Non-Hodgkin lymphoma, and watching her navigate treatment opened my eyes to both the pain and the hope that come with a cancer diagnosis. The nurses who cared for her made an incredible impact—not just by managing her physical symptoms, but by offering emotional support, building trust, and treating her like more than just a diagnosis. That experience inspired me to follow in their footsteps. I want to be the kind of nurse who helps patients and families feel seen, supported, and empowered. In oncology, where patients often face prolonged and uncertain journeys, I aim to bring not only clinical knowledge but also consistent, compassionate presence. Whether it’s through pain management, education, or simply listening, I will show up each day ready to advocate for my patients and support them through every stage of their care. As I continue my education and begin my career, I am committed to contributing to the nursing profession by upholding its core values: advocacy, integrity, and service. I hope to eventually mentor new nurses, especially those transitioning from military to civilian healthcare, and to advocate for holistic care in all patient populations. This scholarship allows me to take one step closer to fulfilling that mission, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to pursue a profession that has the power to transform lives—including my own. Warmest regards, Kali Jan Alhambra