I have contributed to my community in many ways through volunteering, service, and leadership. Serving others has always been an important part of my life, and every opportunity I have had to help my community has strengthened my desire to become a nurse. Whether I am supporting patients at a local cancer center, serving through my church, or encouraging fellow students who are pursuing healthcare careers, I strive to make a positive difference in the lives of others. These experiences have taught me the importance of compassion, teamwork, and selfless service, and they continue to shape the healthcare professional I hope to become. For the past year and a half, I have volunteered at my local cancer center, where I support patients undergoing cancer treatment. Every day, I witness the physical and emotional challenges that many patients face. As a volunteer, I provide emotional support by offering a listening ear, comforting conversations, and a welcoming presence during difficult moments. I also help connect patients and their families with resources that make their treatment journey less overwhelming. Seeing the strength and resilience of these patients has inspired me to approach every person with empathy, kindness, and respect. This experience has reinforced my passion for nursing and shown me that even small acts of compassion can make a meaningful difference. In addition to my volunteer work, I am actively involved in my church's children's ministry. I help promote church events by creating content for our social media pages and spreading awareness throughout the community. I also assist with fundraising efforts to support ministry programs and outreach activities. Through my church, I have participated in toy drives and food drives, collecting donations for families in need. One of the most meaningful experiences has been traveling to Mexico to distribute these donations directly to children and families. Seeing their gratitude reminded me that serving others is about more than meeting physical needs—it is about showing compassion, hope, and kindness. At school, I am a member of the Careers into Healthcare program, where I share my volunteer experiences with students who also hope to work in healthcare. I enjoy helping classmates learn about volunteer opportunities and make connections within the hospital to gain valuable experience. At the same time, I learn from their experiences, allowing all of us to grow together as future healthcare professionals. Helping people has always been my greatest passion and the reason I chose to pursue nursing. I believe nursing is more than a career—it is a commitment to serving others with compassion, respect, and integrity. After becoming a registered nurse, I hope to join the Red Cross and participate in deployments to communities affected by natural disasters, humanitarian crises, or limited access to healthcare. I want to use my skills to care for those who need it most and provide comfort during difficult times. Above all, I want to be a nurse who advocates for every patient. I believe every individual deserves to be heard, understood, and treated with dignity. My goal is to ensure my patients feel respected, supported, and confident that someone is advocating for their best interests. Through my volunteer work, church involvement, education, and future nursing career, I am committed to making a lasting difference in my community and beyond.

The impact I hope to make extends far beyond the walls of a hospital. I want to dedicate my life to serving others with compassion, empathy, and dignity while helping improve access to healthcare for those who need it most. As a first-generation Mexican American college student, I understand what it means to overcome barriers and pursue opportunities that once seemed out of reach. My education is not only changing my future—it is creating a new legacy for my family and opening doors for future generations. Growing up in a hardworking, working-class family, I watched my parents sacrifice every day to give me opportunities they never had. Although they were unable to attend college themselves, they always encouraged me to dream bigger than my circumstances. Their perseverance, resilience, and unconditional support inspire me every day. Every milestone I reach is a reflection of their sacrifices, and I carry that responsibility with pride. My dream is to become a nurse practitioner because I believe healthcare is about more than treating illnesses—it is about caring for people during some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives. Through volunteering at a cancer center, I have learned that the smallest acts of kindness can have the greatest impact. Whether I am listening to a patient's fears, helping someone feel confident again, or simply making them smile during a difficult day, I have seen how compassion can bring comfort and hope. Those experiences confirmed that nursing is not just the career I want—it is the calling I feel meant to pursue. In the future, I hope to work in labor and delivery, where I can support mothers and families as they welcome new life into the world. I also dream of serving with the American Red Cross and traveling to rural and underserved communities that have limited access to healthcare. I want to use my education to care for people regardless of their culture, language, or financial circumstances. As a bilingual healthcare provider, I hope to bridge language barriers and ensure every patient feels heard, respected, and understood. I also hope to inspire others who come from backgrounds similar to mine. I want young students, especially first-generation and Hispanic students, to see that their dreams are possible. By earning my degree and continuing my education, I hope to become the example that I never had growing up. Most importantly, I want to create lasting change within my own family. My success is not mine alone—it belongs to my parents, whose sacrifices made it possible, and to my future children, who will grow up knowing that higher education is attainable. They will never have to wonder whether college is possible because I will have paved the way. My vision is simple: to leave every person and every community better than I found them. Through nursing, service, and compassion, I hope to make a difference one patient, one family, and one act of kindness at a time.

In the next few weeks, I will complete my Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program, and I hope to begin working at a hospital to gain valuable hands-on experience in patient care. Becoming a CNA is the first step toward achieving my long-term dream of building a career in nursing. I am excited to learn from experienced healthcare professionals, strengthen my clinical skills, and continue developing the compassion and confidence needed to care for patients during some of the most important moments of their lives. My plan is to work as a CNA while continuing my education to become a registered nurse. I believe that gaining real-world experience while attending school will make me a stronger and more knowledgeable nurse. Once I earn my nursing license, I hope to become a travel nurse alongside my best friend. Traveling will allow me to experience different healthcare settings, meet people from diverse backgrounds, and continue growing both personally and professionally. It will also give me the opportunity to explore the world while doing meaningful work that improves the lives of others. After gaining experience as a registered nurse, I plan to continue my education by earning a master's degree and eventually becoming a nurse practitioner. If the opportunity presents itself, I would also love to pursue a doctorate to further expand my knowledge and ability to serve others. I believe that lifelong learning is essential in healthcare, and I want to continue growing throughout my career so I can provide the highest quality care to my patients. One of my greatest dreams is to work in labor and delivery. I cannot imagine a more meaningful career than supporting mothers and their families during the birth of a child. Being present for one of the most life-changing moments a family will ever experience is both a privilege and a tremendous responsibility. I hope to provide comfort, encouragement, and compassionate care while helping welcome new life into the world. Beyond working in a hospital, I also hope to serve communities that have limited access to healthcare. I would love to volunteer with the American Red Cross and participate in medical missions to rural and underserved areas around the world. Whether responding to natural disasters or providing care in communities with few medical resources, I want to use my education and skills to make healthcare more accessible to those who need it most. My goal is to treat every patient with dignity, empathy, and respect, regardless of their background, culture, or circumstances. This scholarship would play an important role in helping me achieve these goals. As a first-generation college student, paying for my education is one of my biggest challenges. Receiving this scholarship would reduce the financial burden on my family and allow me to focus more fully on my coursework, clinical experiences, and professional development instead of worrying about educational expenses. I am committed to working hard, continuing my education, and dedicating my career to serving others with kindness and compassion. This scholarship is more than financial assistance—it is an investment in my future and in the many lives I hope to impact through nursing.

Being a first-generation college student means more to me than simply earning a degree. It means overcoming obstacles, breaking barriers, and pursuing a path that no one in my family has had the opportunity to take before. It means navigating college largely on my own, without the guidance of parents or relatives who have experienced higher education. Although the journey has not always been easy, it has made me more determined, resilient, and grateful for every opportunity I have been given. Growing up in a hardworking Mexican American family, I learned the value of perseverance at a young age. My parents sacrificed countless hours of hard work to provide me with opportunities they never had. While they were unable to pursue higher education themselves, they always encouraged me to dream bigger than my circumstances. Their sacrifices are the foundation of my success, and every accomplishment I achieve is a reflection of their love, support, and unwavering belief in me. My dream is to become a nurse practitioner because I want to dedicate my life to serving others with compassion, respect, and empathy. Healthcare is more than a career to me—it is an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in people's lives during some of their most vulnerable moments. Through my volunteer experiences, I have learned that kindness and genuine human connection can be just as healing as medicine. Those experiences have strengthened my desire to become a healthcare provider who treats every patient with dignity, regardless of their background or circumstances. One of my greatest goals is to serve with the American Red Cross and travel to communities around the world that lack access to healthcare and essential resources. I hope to provide care to individuals and families who may otherwise go without medical attention, while also learning from the diverse cultures and communities I encounter. I believe that every person deserves quality healthcare, compassion, and respect, no matter where they live or what challenges they face. I want my career to reflect those values every day. Being the first person in my family to pursue this journey is both an honor and a responsibility. My success will never belong to me alone—it will belong to my parents, whose sacrifices made my education possible, and to the generations that come after me. By earning my degree and building a career dedicated to service, I hope to create opportunities that my future children and family members will never have to question. They will grow up knowing that higher education is possible because someone before them paved the way. Being a first-generation college student has taught me that resilience, compassion, and determination can transform not only one person's future but an entire family's legacy. I am proud to be that first step, and I am committed to using my education to make a lasting difference in the lives of others around the world.

It is honestly difficult to think of one specific time when I served someone in a meaningful way because serving others has become part of my daily life. The moments that have impacted me the most are not always dramatic or life-changing at first glance. As a volunteer at a cancer center, I meet people every day who are facing some of the most difficult moments of their lives. Sometimes the greatest act of service is simply being present, listening, and treating someone with kindness. I will never forget the first patient I registered when I began volunteering. She was a Spanish-speaking woman who had recently started cancer treatment. Because many of our staff members did not speak Spanish and I was bilingual, I had the opportunity to help her through the registration process. As I explained the free services available to her, she became overwhelmed with gratitude. She was amazed to learn that we could provide financial assistance, comfort items, and even wigs for patients undergoing treatment. By that point, she had already lost most of her hair and decided she was ready to choose a wig. We spent time looking through different styles together, and instead of choosing something similar to her natural hair, she surprised me. She picked a long, black hairstyle that was completely different from the short, brown hair she had always worn. She told me she wanted to see this difficult season as an opportunity to try something new instead of focusing only on what she had lost. Her perspective was incredibly inspiring. I will always remember the smile on her face when she looked in the mirror wearing her new wig. She also received blankets, pillows, and other comfort items, and she was so grateful for every single one. Before she left, she asked for my phone number so we could take a picture together, and she later sent it to me. I still have that picture, and I have never forgotten her. I have not seen her since that day, but I often think about her, pray that she is healthy, and hope she is doing well. That experience taught me that serving others is not about grand gestures. Sometimes the smallest acts of kindness have the greatest impact. Whether it is bringing someone a chair, making them laugh, listening without judgment, or simply reminding them that they are not alone, those moments matter. I have learned to see each person as an individual with a story, not just another patient or a diagnosis. Volunteering at the cancer center confirmed that nursing is the career I am meant to pursue. I want to be the kind of nurse who leads with compassion before anything else. While I will work hard to develop the knowledge and clinical skills necessary to provide excellent care, I believe my greatest strength will always be my ability to treat every patient with empathy, dignity, and genuine kindness. I hope that every person I care for feels seen, heard, and supported, especially during the most difficult moments of their lives. That is the kind of nurse I aspire to become.

I am passionate about being a first-generation Mexican American college graduate because earning my degree represents so much more than my own future. It symbolizes the sacrifices my parents made, the barriers my family has overcome, and the opportunities I will create for future generations. I will be the first person in my family to graduate from college, and my goal is to continue my education by earning a master's degree in a healthcare field, with the possibility of pursuing a doctorate. Reaching these milestones would be a dream not only for me but for my entire family. Growing up in a hardworking, working-class Mexican American household, I learned that opportunities are not always easy to find. My parents both graduated from high school but were never able to attend college. Instead, they dedicated their lives to working hard to provide for our family and to give me opportunities they never had. Their sacrifices have inspired me to work just as hard in school and remain committed to achieving my goals. Completing my education is my way of honoring everything they have done for me. My culture is one of the most important parts of who I am. It has shaped my values, my determination, and my work ethic. I take pride in my Mexican heritage because I was raised to believe that success comes from perseverance, resilience, and dedication. Those values motivate me every day to push through challenges and continue striving for excellence in my education and future career. Graduating from college will allow me to build a better future not only for myself but also for my family. I look forward to being able to support my parents and give back to them after everything they have sacrificed for me. More importantly, I hope to change the future for the generations that come after me. By becoming the first college graduate in my family, I can create a path that makes higher education feel possible and attainable for my future children. They will grow up knowing that college is within reach, and they will have both financial support and personal guidance that my parents were unable to provide because they never had the opportunity themselves. Being a first-generation college graduate is about breaking cycles, honoring my family's sacrifices, and creating opportunities that will extend far beyond my own lifetime. That is why this journey means so much to me.

I have been working towards my education for a very long time since eighth grade. I started my journey for higher education, starting with a math college class that my regular math teacher gave an opportunity to me, even though it was only meant for that advanced math class since then my confidence grew in pursuing higher education at a young age and I continue to do so all the way to the end of high school when I graduated with my associates in arts as well as my high school diploma. Throughout that time, I learned many valuable skills like time management, choosing my priorities when it came to balancing my life ,being able to handle both schoolwork from college and high school ,extracurriculars, hobbies and home responsibilities at the same time. It gave me a sense of purpose ,help me to find my future passion and my career. I think my advantage is that I have much experience when it comes to school, when it comes to navigating school with life, balancing both and still maintaining to be successful, while enjoying life by trying new things. I became the first in my family to graduate with a college degree, and the youngest as well, but not only that earning a college degree while still in high school. I will be my family’s first nurse and future nurse practitioner. I plan to gain my masters degree to be a nurse practitioner from a high end university since I never had the chance of leaving my hometown but for now I am working on my CNA license and have applied for nursing school. Where I hope to earn not one but both my associates and bachelors in nursing at the same time while trying to be debt-free. I’d say I have much determination and ambition. I know what I want in life and I have no doubt that I can accomplish it one way or another. I say advantage is experience, determination and ambition at a young age that most find later on in life. I can’t say that I am the most deserving, I know others might have higher GPA, gone to better schools, but in the end, I think my character and commitment to my education, outshines all that.

The quote, “Out beyond ideas of wrongdoing and rightdoing, there is a field. I’ll meet you there. When the soul lies down in that grass, the world is too full to talk about,” from *The Essential Rumi* carries a deep and spiritual meaning that can be interpreted in many different ways. To me, the author is describing a place of complete peace and understanding. It is not a place where right and wrong disappear, but a place beyond human judgment and conflict. In everyday life, people are constantly divided by opinions, morals, arguments, and beliefs about what is right or wrong. Rumi seems to suggest that there is a deeper level of existence where those divisions no longer matter. In that “field,” there is no bias, anger, or separation. There is only peace, awareness, and connection. The image of a field is important because fields often symbolize openness, calmness, and freedom. A field has no walls or boundaries, which could represent freedom from the limits humans place on themselves. When Rumi says, “I’ll meet you there,” it feels personal and spiritual, almost like an invitation to leave behind worldly struggles and enter a place where souls can truly understand one another. It feels less physical and more emotional or spiritual. To me, it sounds almost like heaven or some kind of afterlife where human conflict no longer exists. The line, “When the soul lies down in that grass,” especially gives the quote a spiritual feeling. The mention of the soul separates the idea from ordinary life and places it into something deeper. A soul is eternal and connected to spirituality, not temporary things like money, stress, or social expectations. When the soul “lies down,” it sounds restful and peaceful, almost like finally being able to stop carrying burdens. The grass may symbolize nature, purity, or rest. It creates the image of complete stillness, where someone no longer has to fight or prove anything. Everything simply exists peacefully. Another part of the quote that stands out to me is when Rumi says, “the world is too full to talk about.” I interpret this in a few different ways. One meaning could be that the world is so full of distractions, worries, responsibilities, and noise that people cannot truly experience peace. Everyone is overwhelmed with thoughts, fears, schedules, and problems. People rarely slow down enough to connect with themselves spiritually. Because the world is “too full,” people cannot understand the deeper peace Rumi is describing. They are too distracted by daily life and human conflict. At the same time, I also think the quote could connect to death and the afterlife. The field may symbolize where souls go after death, beyond earthly judgment. When Rumi talks about laying in the grass, it could even symbolize a grave or resting place. In that interpretation, the quote becomes both peaceful and haunting. The world becomes “too full” because it is full of suffering, death, and temporary human concerns, while the soul moves beyond those things. Whether Rumi meant this figuratively or literally, the quote leaves room for many interpretations, which is part of what makes it so powerful. Even though the passage is short, it contains an incredible amount of meaning. It speaks about peace, spirituality, human nature, and possibly even death and eternity. Rumi uses simple imagery, but the emotions and ideas behind it feel endless. That is why this quote continues to connect with people so deeply. It reminds readers that there may be something greater than the conflicts and worries of everyday life, something peaceful that exists beyond human understanding. Its mystery allows every reader to discover their own spiritual interpretation.

My plan to build my future starts with earning my degree as a registered nurse. From there, I want to work at my local hospital to gain experience, do travel nursing, join the American Red Cross, and eventually earn my master’s degree in nursing so I can become a nurse practitioner, specifically an acute care nurse practitioner. I hope to work in the surgical field, either in labor and delivery or in a specialty such as cardiovascular or orthopedic care. From there, I want to use the financial freedom I gain to travel all over the world as a travel nurse or while serving with the American Red Cross and help people from many different backgrounds, cultures, and settings. I want to provide care and service wherever I can while also enjoying the opportunity to meet new people, experience new places, and create meaningful memories. I hope to build a future where I have enough financial stability and freedom to take these kinds of trips, but also to travel with my family and friends and enjoy life with the people I love. I believe that by serving people from cultures and communities different from my own, even those I may not fully understand at first, I will grow as a person and learn how to better serve others with kindness and compassion. I also hope to bring back the experiences and lessons I learn from other communities and share them with my own community so that we can learn from one another. I believe this will make a positive impact on my life because my goal has always been to live a life centered on service to others. Being able to see the world, experience new things, and at the same time make a difference in people’s lives would truly be a blessing.

One of the biggest challenges I have faced throughout my academic journey has been beginning my higher education at such a young age. I started taking college classes while I was still in eighth grade, which was both exciting and overwhelming. While many students my age were focused only on middle school or high school responsibilities, I was already balancing advanced coursework and trying to navigate the expectations of college classes. As a first-generation college student, this experience came with many obstacles because my parents had never attended college themselves. Although they always encouraged me and supported my goals, they were unfamiliar with the college system and could not always guide me through difficult classes, study strategies, scheduling, or long-term academic planning. Because of this, I often had to figure things out on my own and learn through trial and error. Thankfully, I was fortunate enough to have a very supportive academic advisor who believed in my abilities and encouraged me to continue pursuing my goals. Having someone who could guide me academically made a tremendous difference in my confidence and helped me stay motivated during difficult moments. Even with that support, however, balancing everything became increasingly challenging once I entered high school. During my senior year especially, I was constantly managing multiple responsibilities at once. I often had to leave high school classes early in order to travel to the college campus and continue my college coursework afterward. Many days were long and exhausting, and it sometimes felt like I was carrying responsibilities far beyond what most students my age experienced. In addition to academics, I remained heavily involved in extracurricular activities and community service. I was a member of the National Honor Society and also served as the historian for my culinary class, which required organization, leadership, and participation in various activities and events. I was also active in the AVID club, where I participated in additional community service projects and leadership opportunities. Outside of school, I dedicated much of my time to volunteering at my church. I served in the children’s ministry and worked as a Sunday school teacher, helping guide and mentor younger children in their faith. Alongside these responsibilities, I also helped support my family and fulfill responsibilities at home. There were many moments when everything felt overwhelming, and managing my schedule became emotionally and physically exhausting. However, despite the pressure and challenges, I remained committed to my education and continued pushing forward. One of my proudest accomplishments is graduating from high school while simultaneously earning my associate’s degree. Out of my entire graduating class, only three students achieved this milestone. Accomplishing something so significant at such a young age required discipline, sacrifice, perseverance, and determination. There were moments when I doubted myself, especially because not everyone around me was supportive of my ambitions. Some counselors and school staff members seemed discouraging rather than encouraging, and at times I felt as though my goals were being questioned rather than supported. Instead of allowing that negativity to stop me, it motivated me even more. I became determined to prove to myself that I was capable of achieving great things regardless of the obstacles placed in front of me. Today, I continue working toward my goal of becoming a nurse. Although I am no longer in high school, my passion for service has remained an important part of my life. I continue volunteering at my church, and I also volunteer at my local hospital’s cancer center, where I help support patients and families who are going through incredibly difficult situations. This experience has had a profound impact on me personally and professionally. Witnessing the pain and suffering that illness can cause has made me more empathetic, compassionate, and grateful for my own life. It has also taught me how important kindness and emotional support can be during difficult moments. Through volunteering, I have learned how to navigate sensitive conversations with patients and provide comfort during emotional situations. These experiences have strengthened my desire to pursue nursing because I know I want a career centered around caring for others and making a positive difference in people’s lives. I believe I would be an excellent candidate for your scholarship because I am deeply committed to both my education and my faith. As a Christian, I strive to live a life that honors God in everything I do. I want my future career to reflect not only my academic achievements but also my compassion, integrity, and faith in Christ. Nursing is more than just a profession to me; it is an opportunity to serve others with love, patience, and empathy. I hope to be a source of comfort and encouragement to patients during some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives. Through my actions, I want others to see the love and compassion that Christ has placed in my heart. Receiving this scholarship would help me continue pursuing my dream of becoming a nurse and allow me to continue serving others with both skill and faith.

I think relationships are very important, both professionally and personally. I have never been in a romantic relationship, so I can’t say much on that, but what I can say is that I have a lot of good friends — friends who I know love me. It’s not that romantic kind of love, but that friendship kind of love. Sometimes it is hard because I feel like my life lacks romantic love, but then I look at all my friendships and see how blessed I am to be surrounded by all different kinds of love: the love of a sister, the love of a father and mother, the love of a girl best friend, the love of a guy best friend, and the love of those people who simply listen and understand. I think having good friends not only inspires you to be a better person, but having friends who push you to be better, encourage you to pursue your goals, support you in your dreams, and are proud of even your little accomplishments is very important. They see you for who you are, and they’re there when no one else understands what you’re going through. Sometimes there are not even words anyone can say to make you feel better, but simply their presence and willingness to listen can really change your life. I can say that I have several friends like that — friends I’ve known since elementary school. Friendships of over 10 years. I can say that we have grown together and experienced many things together. They have shaped me as I’ve grown into the young woman that I am, and we have overcome so much together. It’s a privilege to go through different phases of life with someone and still have them choose you, encourage you, and want to see you do your best. So in my personal life, I could say that these friendships have helped me not give up. They’ve been a support system and encouragers since day one. Professionally, I think it’s good to have connections, especially long-term friends who are going into the same field as my career. I have friends who are going to be nurses and friends who are going to be doctors, and I can already see how we will be able to lean on one another and understand the struggles within our field that people outside of it may not fully understand. I also think it’s important to have strong networking connections because we may be able to help one another professionally through recommendation letters, job opportunities, or simply advice. Professionally, I think relationships help us obtain our goals, but they also give us people who truly understand what we’re going through. We can encourage one another, learn from each other’s experiences, and even help guide younger friends who may choose to follow the same path. Overall, I think relationships are important because they allow people to support, encourage, and help one another grow through every stage of life.

I think God has helped me so much in my life because my faith is such an important part of my life. It’s the basis of everything that I am, and it is my foundation. Not only has God given me much patience, determination, and perseverance to pursue the career that I have chosen, but also to overcome obstacles and hurdles when it comes to this type of career. Not only has He shown me how to deal with people, how to navigate different characters that I come across, and how to be kind and gentle in situations where sometimes it’s hard to be, He’s helped me carry the burden of my life — the burden of managing school, family, friends, hobbies, and just always providing when it comes to school. No matter if it’s buying stuff that I need or lacking funds for tuition, He’s always been there, and He’s a very important part of my life. Additionally, I think my faith will help me so much in my career. My faith not only is what has given me my passion for my career and helped me establish that what I want to do is nursing, but I hope that my faith is centered in my career and that my career could be a spotlight and a foundation for my faith to show. That through my career I will be able to put my faith to practice. Because every day as a nurse, I’m going to walk into that room, into that hospital, not knowing what could happen that day or who I may come across, but I want to have faith that no matter what I see or who I meet, I can be a blessing to their life and provide them with the utmost care and treat them with the love that Christ has put in my heart. Reminding my patients that I see them as people first before just my job. I think my faith not only is what inspired me to pursue my career, but is what’s going to push me to finish it, to go the extra mile, to not only exceed but excel, and just keep me going and be my base, my stronghold in this life when it comes to overcoming all the challenges I’m going to face — not only in my educational journey, but as well as when I start working in my professional field.

I chose to pursue a degree in healthcare because of the strong influence of my family members who work in the medical field and the meaningful experiences I witnessed growing up. From an early age, I was exposed to the realities of working in hospitals and caring for people during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. I saw the long hours, emotional strain, and physical demands that healthcare workers face every day. At the same time, I also witnessed the rewarding side of the profession—the gratitude from patients, the trust families place in caregivers, and the lasting impact that compassionate healthcare workers can have on someone’s life. Seeing both the challenges and rewards gave me a realistic understanding of healthcare and inspired me to pursue nursing as a meaningful and purposeful career. Through my family’s experiences and stories, I learned that nursing is about much more than medical treatments or procedures. Nursing is rooted in compassion, patience, advocacy, and human connection. I came to understand that patients and families often depend on nurses not only for physical care, but also for emotional support and reassurance during vulnerable moments. I witnessed how small gestures, such as listening attentively, offering comfort, or explaining something calmly, could ease fear and make patients feel cared for. Those moments inspired me to become the type of nurse who treats every patient with dignity, kindness, and empathy. As a woman entering the healthcare field, I hope to make a positive impact by being a compassionate advocate for my patients and by creating an environment where people feel safe, respected, and supported. I believe women in healthcare play a powerful role in providing both strength and comfort to patients and families. I want to use my voice, education, and skills to care for individuals as whole people, not simply as diagnoses or medical cases. My goal is to ensure that every patient feels heard and valued, especially during emotionally challenging situations. I am especially interested in labor and delivery nursing because supporting mothers and families during childbirth is both a privilege and a profound responsibility. These moments are often filled with joy, fear, excitement, and vulnerability all at once. I hope to provide skilled, evidence-based care while also offering emotional encouragement and advocacy for women during one of the most important experiences of their lives. Ultimately, I chose healthcare because it allows me to combine my passion for science, my desire to serve others, and my commitment to compassionate care into one career. I hope to continue growing both personally and professionally while making a lasting positive impact on the lives of the patients and families I serve.

My nursing career will help improve people’s nutrition and overall health by allowing me to combine my passion for nutrition with compassionate, hands-on patient care. What first inspired me to pursue healthcare was my love for nutrition and helping people live healthier lives. Initially, I planned to become a dietitian, but over time I realized I wanted a career where I could build stronger relationships with patients and make a deeper impact during some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives. That realization led me to nursing. Through my experiences in hospitals and volunteering at my local cancer center, I have learned how closely nutrition, emotional well-being, and overall health are connected. Watching my grandmother spend a month in the ICU showed me how important even the smallest acts of care can be, such as helping someone eat, stay comfortable, or simply feel supported. I also witnessed the emotional burden illness places on families and how meaningful compassionate healthcare workers can be during difficult times. Volunteering at the cancer center strengthened my understanding of the role nutrition plays in healing and recovery. Many patients struggle not only physically, but emotionally as well. Providing donated items such as liquid nutrition, blankets, and comfort supplies may seem small, but those acts can make someone feel cared for and supported. I have seen patients regain confidence after receiving wigs or prosthetics following treatment, and those moments taught me that caring for someone’s overall health means caring for both their physical and emotional needs. As a nurse, I plan to encourage healthier eating habits by educating patients in a compassionate and realistic way. I want to help people understand that healthy living is not about perfection, but about creating sustainable habits that improve quality of life. I hope to teach patients about balanced nutrition, hydration, meal planning, and disease prevention while also considering their financial situations, culture, and personal challenges. I believe patients are more likely to make healthy choices when they feel understood rather than judged. I also hope to continue volunteering throughout my nursing career, whether in hospitals, churches, or community outreach programs. My goal is to serve people with kindness, patience, and excellence in every setting. In the future, I would love to become a travel nurse with the American Red Cross so I can help communities of different cultures and backgrounds. I believe nursing will give me the opportunity to improve lives not only through medical care, but also through compassion, education, and service to others.

College more than anything is an amazing opportunity to change the course of my life but as wells as my family and future generations. For one college secures me with a future career that not only I will be able to work at something I'm passionate about, but it will pay my bills. I will be financially secure and will not have to worry about working unstable laboring jobs that I won't be able to sustain long-term. As well as life becoming increasingly more expensive with time. Laboring jobs that only require high school education will not pay enough to afford a relatively simple life without stress. College gives me opportunity to grow in my career and explore different variations within my field of study. It will give me room to grow and continue further higher education to more up the ladder if I choose to. I believe a work-life balance is super important for maintaining a healthy mental state and relationships with family and friends. As well as making life more enjoyable since the burden of making enough to bring food to the table is no longer a concern. By me having an education I will be able to give my future children a better life than I and I will be able to mentor them better when it comes to navigating higher education. They will be able to accomplish more than me and their grandparents. Shaping their future with my education and them shaping their children. My ultimate goal with going to college is to get my degree in nursing. My purpose is to help people ,it's what I enjoy doing best and my career will give that opportunity to serve others in the way my heart desires to. Not only I will be able to live a comfortable life without too much stress and still have time and resources to spoil my family and myself and won't have to feel guilty about spending on things or people. My goals are to be a travel nurse working for the Red Cross or a ministry and seeing the world while making a difference at the same time. College is the first open door that I must walk through in order for my goals to start becoming a reality. Without college I do not believe I would be able to bring the same impact I desire to leave imprinted on this world or have the freedom to do all of things I desire, working a regular minimum wage job.

I believe the best way to embody selflessness is to deny ones self. Actively looking for ways to put yourself last and others first. It's not easy to always to do so since humans are pretty selfish, but the beauty in selflessness is that it defies human nature. It's the act of putting others first, serving them with excellence and a full heart, not expecting anything in return. I do think I embody selflessness. I find second nature to put others first and give my everything even when I have little. However, I have come to learn that sometimes in order to selflessness it's not necessarily how you give or what you say. Words at times are not enough and simply listening and a warm embrace is all a person needs. By giving your time to be present for someone, thats already selfless. I volunteer at my local cancer center for that very reason and may times our free resources are not enough to cheer someone up. Many times patients come in to just to vent and listen with a compassionate ear I listen. Although I may not fully understand their situation or even be able to help I try my best to provide some sort of comfort. I have been blessed with a big heart and the spirit of selflessness has been in me since I was little. My first memory of helping others was when I was 9 years old and it was my idea to go the rural areas in Mexico and pass out canned food. So held a food drive with the help of my church and we went. It was the first time I witnessed the sadness of poverty, however the people I was able to help were grateful. Another time is when I watched over my grandmother while she was sick in hospital, feeding her, talking to her and just making sure she was comfortable so that my grandfather could go home and rest. Or when my best friend found out her grandfather died during school in one of our most busiest weeks of the whole year and she couldn't contain herself so I helped find a place no one would brother her and she could cry freely. I took on her work as well as mine so she could cry in peace. Another time when one of my closest friends told me that a friend of him passed away so the next day I took him a took a freshly baked churro I made by hand. So you could say that being selfless is something I have become familiar since I was very young.

I am a 19 years old recently graduated high school last year and so much has happened since then. Before graduating I had my heart set on pursuing the dietetics. For my love of food science, how food directly affects the body. I found it so interesting how the career combined medicine with food wellness. My goal was to graduate high school with my associates in arts, which I did and then go straight into my dietetics program. However, before applying I decided to shadow a dietitian at my local hospital and I was met with disappointment. I found that their role in the patients care and prevention of illness was so minimal. Despite all their education they only gave brief education about eating well, that anyone could google. Apart from that, this was the most interaction they had with patients in the clinical setting. Personally, I want a career that feels like I am making a difference in the lives of my patients. Whether that be their care, or advocating for them. Unfortunately, being dietitian I felt would suffice my passion for giving genuine care to people. So I decided to look into nursing, first I shadowed a nurse in labor and delivery since I found that specialty very interesting. It combines post surgical care, surgery, mother and baby, emergencies all in one making it never feel dull. The day I shadowed I came out so excited and I felt a deep calling to the profession. Since then my heart has been set on being a nurse. A couple months after that I started spending a lot of time at the hospital visiting my sick grandmother. This was a new experience for me since I had not had a sick family member in the hospital in a long time and definitely not as severe. It felt different now since I am old enough to understand everything that was going on at the time. I understood what it felt like to be there care for your family and helping out, realizing how tiring it can be. I was there with my grandmother till her finally breath and made me realize the burden that comes with working in healthcare. However, the entire time I witnessed kindness from the nurses, they went above and beyond expectations. That's is the very kind of nurse I aspire to be. A nurse that goes the extra mile and cares both psychically and emotionally for my patients. I believe that kindness can the atmosphere of the room and change the way nurses and all healthcare workers impact the care of our patients.

What inspired me to pursue a career in nursing was the fact that I wanted a job that felt fulfilling. Every day I would feel that I was making a difference, at first I wanted to be a dietitian for my love of nutrition, but unfortunately, I discovered that their patient interaction in the clinical setting and making a true difference was very limited so I decided to change to nursing since I’ve made that decision. I’ve had a lot of experiences within the hospital, one being my grandmother, being sick for a month in the ICU, I got to experience what it felt like to have a family member who is terminally ill and the burden that that brings on a family as well as a spouse. All the work that it takes to take care of a person like that whether it be helping her eat her dinner or combing her hair or cleaning her dentures simply just being there and present but as well experiencing what it feels like to watch someone pass away, to take their last breath, both from the perspective of the family that as well as a nurse and how that can be so emotionally draining. Although you may not know every patient on a personal level you come to understand how delicate and how precious life really is. Being there help me to understand what I must be ready to take on as a nurse, but also help me to understand that I should be understanding of every patient and their family situation. Each one is unique and each should be treated with the most highest care as possible. With that experience as well as being a volunteer at my local cancer center. I’ve had a lot of patient interaction hearing their stories of their life that they lived as well as the struggles they face as they battle on the cancer. I’ve come to learn that by simply providing donated items like blankets, pillows, liquid nutrition and gas vouchers that you can really make someone day or helping them regain their confidence, like a woman who had a mastectomy and you give her prosthetics or someone who has lost her hair and you help them choose the wig that makes them feel the most like themselves. I’ve come to learn that kindness can really make an impact on someone who is going through such a difficult time. I have always grown up in a family that believes that serving others is one of the greatest honors one can do and doing it with the upmost excellence and kindness can truly change someone’s life. These same values are what I want to bring into my career. I want to be the nurse that not only is great at what she does but cares with a huge heart. I love volunteering and I want to continue to volunteer whether it be at my hospital or at my church or within the community I find purpose in serving others and it brings me joy to see the way that one can impact another person‘s life with an active service. As nurse I have a huge opportunity to use my career to serve my community, that's why I want to be travel nurse in the Red Cross, so that I may go and help people of all cultures and races alike.

I actually never thought I would choose to purse a career in nursing, my first initial passion was nutrition and food science. I wanted to be a dietitian because truly believe that food can heal and prevent many diseases. I like how the career was a blend of both food and medicine. I could be treat and prevent disease. However, when I shadowed a dietitian I realized that their scope of practice was very limited regardless of all the education they had. They would only give basic knowledge and education of food. What patients shouldn't eat and what they should avoid. Mostly focusing on patients who had strokes or heart attacks. Their patient interaction was also very limited and my goal for future career has always included feeling that my job was fulfilling and helpful to others and it was just disappointing. I felt like I could be doing way more just food education. So I decided to switch my perspective and look into nursing. Considering that nursing is a great career because you can do so much to change the lives of others and you impact people a lot based on the way you care for them. From there I shadowed a labor and delivery nurse since I have a great love for babies. I remember when I went and got experience seeing a c-section and the nurses caring for the new moms, it had my heart melt. They got to witness the miracle of life everyday and educated new moms on how to raise their new babies. I walked out of the hospital that day feeling a deep calling to do nursing. I believe there is nothing more rewarding than welcoming new life into this world and helping new families understand how to raise their babies. I do plan to receive training in stoma care. I think it would be great to have a diverse understanding of all medical conditions. Even if I may not encounter any patients with stomas I can still be prepared. Understanding each patient's needs is so important and will make me a better nurse.

As a future nurse I believe that I will have a huge platform to bring meaningful change to others. Of course as my daily job I will be helping people. As a future labor and delivery nurse I know that the most meaningful moments occur on this unit, but also very sad moments. Being a new mom in general is not easy on its own and new mom need as much support as possible. I want to provide the best care to comfort moms throughout their whole birth journey as it's a new experience for them and their families. However, I can do more, my plan is to be a travel nurse but also joining the Red Cross or a missionary group to travel the world and help people in the most dire situations or those who can't access healthcare. Whether that be new moms all around the world or anyone. I want my life to be shaped by my personal goal of serving others and by being a nurse I think there is no better way to help others and even change their lives. I have seen how much people need a good nurse or just a good person in times of disaster. For some their whole life has just been destroyed or they have lost everyone they care for. I can't imagine the pain they are in, how lonely they must feel. Although I may be a complete stranger and don't speak their language. I might have a lot of barriers with my patients, but I have learned that nothing breaks barriers more than showing kindness to others. Going back to our roots of humanity and just being there for one another. As nurse my actions will speak louder than words and my care that I provide will be what leaves a huge impact. For me a cold nurse in these situations is just heartbreaking, I never want to be that person. I want to be a great nurse, good at what I do of course. Confident in my skills but first very caring towards my patients, understanding their suffering, their situation, their background and culture. Being considerate in all these aspects even if its all foreign to me. So you could say my plan to impact the world in a positive way is to start by impacting one life with kindness. A kindness that is unconditional and doesn't expect anything back. I want to save lives but heal souls at the same time.

I actually never thought I would choose to pursue a career in nursing; my first initial passion was nutrition and food science. I wanted to be a dietitian because I truly believe that food can heal and prevent many diseases. I like how the career was a blend of both food and medicine. I could treat and prevent disease. However, when I shadowed a dietitian, I realized that their scope of practice was very limited, regardless of all the education they had. Their patient interaction was also very limited, and my goal for my future career has always included feeling that my job was fulfilling and helpful to others and it was just disappointing. So I decided to switch my perspective and look into nursing. From there, I shadowed a labor and delivery nurse since I have a great love for babies. I remember when I went and got experience seeing a c-section and the nurses caring for the new moms, it had my heart melt. I walked out of the hospital that day feeling a deep calling to do nursing, and since then, I have continued to have experiences with patients and experiences that patients and their families go through in a hospital setting. Especially volunteering at my local cancer center, I have had a lot of practice with patient interaction and being comfortable in a clinical setting. I have been able to help many patients and make their day. As well as spending a lot of time in the ICU with my sick grandmother, who unfortunately passed away. I was able to experience the burden families face caring for a loved one and the great work nurses do to provide the best care, both physical and emotional. I became more aware of the what nurses go through all the time and it gives me more empathy for patients and their families. These experiences have given me more passion towards the career. My goal as a nurse is to be the kindest nurse possible and helping people all over the world by joining the Red Cross as a travel nurse. The nurse who brightens a dark room and cares for all her patients both physically, but always remembers they are people, not just my job, and they deserve to be seen as such. I want to go the extra mile to bring comfort to them and as much clarification for the families as well.

I actually never thought I would choose to purse a career in nursing, my first initial passion was nutrition and food science. I wanted to be a dietitian because truly believe that food can heal and prevent many diseases. I like how the career was a blend of both food and medicine. I could both treat and prevent disease. However, when I shadowed a dietitian I realized that their scope of practice was very limited regardless of all the education they had. Their patient interaction was also very limited and my goal for future career has always included feeling that my job was fulfilling and helpful to others and it was just disappointing. So I decided to switch my perspective and look into nursing. From there I shadowed a labor and delivery nurse since I have a great love for babies. I remember when I went and got experience seeing a c-section and the nurses caring for the new moms, it had my heart melt. I walked out of the hospital that day feeling a deep calling to do nursing and since then I have continued to have experiences with patients and experiences that patients and their families go through in hospital setting. Not long after I spent a lot time visiting my grandma who was in the ICU for several days and in the hospital in general for a month. I saw was it was like to care for a family member in the hospital from helping them eat or going for food for my grandpa or cleaning her dentures. The sleepless night her husband would go through to be there with her. However, I also saw the hard work of the nurses and how they influence the patient and their family's experience. The nurses were so kind offering pillows, blankets, coffee ultimately very attentive, but I also saw the burden of watching someone take their last breath and even though they gave the best care they could, it was her time. The past month and all that I have seen and experienced has made me more certain of my career choice and given me more passion towards the career. I understand what it's going to take to be a good nurse and what it will cost me, but I know how much a smile or small gesture from my part can change someone's day. Lighten the burden of having a loved one sick or having to watch them suffer. I want to be nurse the exemplifies all these qualities and goes the extra mile for my patients.

I am 19 years old, and my journey toward a career in healthcare has been shaped not only by academic challenges and professional influences, but also by my personal experience with mental health. During my freshman year of high school, I went through a season of intense anxiety that made it difficult to fully enjoy my daily life. Simple situations felt overwhelming, and I often found myself worrying about things beyond my control. At that time, it felt isolating and discouraging, especially as I tried to balance school, responsibilities, and social expectations. However, having parents who were patient, supportive, and understanding made an incredible difference. Their steady encouragement and reassurance helped me realize that struggling with mental health is not a weakness, but a human experience that deserves compassion and care. That period of anxiety deeply influenced my beliefs about mental health and the importance of emotional well-being. I learned firsthand how powerful support systems can be. I also learned how invisible battles can shape someone’s daily life in ways others may not immediately see. Because of this, I have developed a strong belief that mental health should be treated with the same seriousness and empathy as physical health. Everyone deserves to feel heard, validated, and supported without fear of judgment. My experiences have also strengthened my relationships. Going through anxiety taught me to be more attentive and compassionate toward others. I became more aware that people may be carrying struggles beneath the surface, and that patience and kindness can make a meaningful difference. I strive to be someone others feel safe opening up to, just as my parents created a safe space for me. This perspective has shaped the way I interact with friends, classmates, and family members, encouraging me to lead with empathy rather than assumption. Academically, my journey has been defined by perseverance. Beginning college coursework in eighth grade challenged me to push past self-doubt and grow in confidence. Balancing high school classes, college courses, extracurricular activities, and responsibilities at home required discipline and resilience. When I was told by a high school counselor that my goal of graduating with an Associate in Arts degree was unrealistic, I chose to let that doubt fuel my determination. Becoming one of only three students in my graduating class to earn a college degree alongside a high school diploma reinforced my belief that challenges can reveal strength rather than limit potential. Overcoming anxiety while managing these responsibilities strengthened my confidence and deepened my understanding of perseverance. Growing up surrounded by family members in healthcare further shaped my career aspirations. I witnessed the emotional weight healthcare professionals carry and the compassion required to care for patients during vulnerable moments. My own mental health journey has inspired me to integrate that compassion into my future career. I plan to make a positive impact by advocating for mental health awareness, creating supportive environments, and treating patients as whole individuals—emotionally and physically. Whether through nursing or another healthcare role, I hope to combine resilience, empathy, and dedication to provide care that not only heals the body but also nurtures the mind.

I chose to pursue a career in nursing because of the strong influence of my family members who work in healthcare and the meaningful experiences I witnessed growing up. From an early age, I was exposed to the realities of working in a hospital setting. I saw the long hours, the emotional strain, and the physical demands that come with caring for patients who are ill, frightened, or vulnerable. At the same time, I also saw the deeply rewarding side of healthcare—the gratitude expressed by patients, the trust families place in caregivers, and the powerful relationships formed during life’s most critical moments. Observing both the challenges and the rewards gave me a realistic and balanced understanding of the profession and helped me recognize how impactful and fulfilling a career in nursing can be. Through my family’s stories and firsthand accounts, I learned that nursing is about much more than administering medication or carrying out medical procedures. Nursing is rooted in compassion, advocacy, and human connection. I came to understand that patients and their families often depend on nurses not only for clinical expertise but also for reassurance and emotional support. I saw how even small gestures—a calm explanation, a reassuring touch, or simply taking the time to listen—could ease anxiety and create comfort during difficult situations. Witnessing the difference these actions made inspired me to pursue a career where I could have a tangible, positive impact on people’s lives every day. The values instilled in me from a young age—humility, kindness, respect, and service to others—naturally align with the nursing profession. I am drawn to nursing because it allows me to care for individuals as whole people, not just as medical cases or diagnoses. I want to be the kind of nurse who treats every patient with dignity and empathy, understanding that the way patients are treated often stays with them long after the clinical details are forgotten. Healthcare is not only about healing the body; it is also about supporting emotional and psychological well-being. Looking toward the future, I am especially interested in labor and delivery nursing. Supporting mothers, newborns, and families during childbirth is both a profound responsibility and an incredible privilege. These moments are often filled with excitement, fear, joy, and vulnerability all at once. I hope to use my nursing degree to provide skilled, evidence-based care while also offering emotional reassurance and advocacy during this life-changing experience. My goal is to become a nurse who empowers women, supports families, and ensures safe and compassionate care during one of the most meaningful events in their lives. Ultimately, I chose healthcare because it allows me to combine my passion for science, my desire to serve others, and my commitment to compassionate care into one purposeful career. In the future, I intend to use my degree not only to practice as a dedicated nurse but also to continue learning, growing, and expanding my ability to positively influence the lives of the patients and families I serve.

My “pie in the sky” dream is to become a nurse who not only provides excellent clinical care, but also leaves a lasting emotional impact on the patients and families I serve—particularly during some of the most vulnerable and transformative moments of their lives. This dream feels both inspiring and just out of reach because it requires more than technical skill; it demands emotional strength, lifelong learning, and the courage to show up fully for others even on the hardest days. This dream was sparked at a young age by family members who work in healthcare. Through their experiences, I gained an honest view of what life in a hospital truly looks like. I saw the long hours, emotional exhaustion, and heavy responsibility that come with caring for people who are suffering. At the same time, I witnessed the beauty of nursing—the gratitude of patients, the trust placed in caregivers, and the quiet moments where compassion and kindness made all the difference. Seeing both the challenges and rewards helped me understand that nursing is not easy, but it is deeply meaningful. That understanding planted the dream of becoming a nurse who can be a source of comfort, strength, and hope. From an early age, I was taught to put others first and to serve my community with humility, compassion, and respect. Nursing allows me to live out these values every day. My goal is to become the kind of nurse who recognizes patients as whole individuals with emotional, physical, and spiritual needs. I want people to feel seen, heard, and valued, especially during moments when they may feel afraid or vulnerable. I believe that small acts—such as a warm smile, a reassuring word, or simply being present—can leave a lasting impact. Patients may forget the details of their care, but they will always remember how they were treated. I am especially drawn to labor and delivery nursing, where nurses support mothers, newborns, and families during one of the most meaningful moments of their lives. My dream is to help create a calm, empowering environment where mothers feel safe, respected, and supported throughout the childbirth process. Being trusted during such a life-changing experience is both a privilege and a responsibility, and I hope to honor that trust through compassionate, evidence-based care. To reach this dream, I know I must commit to growth and perseverance. I plan to strengthen my academic foundation, develop strong clinical skills, and pursue advanced education or certifications that will allow me to provide the highest quality of care. Nursing is a lifelong learning profession, and I am motivated by the opportunity to continually improve while advocating for those in my care. Ultimately, my pie in the sky dream is simple yet profound: to make a meaningful difference—one patient, one family, and one moment at a time.

I chose to pursue a STEM field, specifically nursing, because it allows me to combine science, critical thinking, compassion, and service in a way that directly improves the lives of others. My passion for nursing developed at a young age through the influence of family members who work in healthcare. Through their experiences, I gained a realistic understanding of the hospital environment, including the long hours, emotional challenges, and immense responsibility that come with caring for individuals during vulnerable moments. While I saw how demanding the profession can be, I was equally inspired by the meaningful impact nurses have through empathy, skill, and dedication. These early experiences motivated me to pursue nursing as both a scientific discipline and a purposeful career. As a woman entering a STEM field, I am proud to pursue a profession that blends technical expertise with human connection. Nursing requires strong foundations in biology, chemistry, anatomy, and evidence-based practice, while also demanding emotional intelligence and adaptability. I am passionate about becoming a nurse who not only delivers excellent clinical care but also recognizes patients as whole individuals with physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. I believe this holistic approach is especially powerful in STEM fields, where compassion enhances the application of science and technology. I was raised with values centered on humility, service, and respect for others, and these principles guide my approach to healthcare. Nursing allows me to put these values into action every day. Whether through a reassuring word, a calm presence, or attentive listening, I believe small acts of kindness can have a lasting impact. Patients may not remember every medical detail, but they always remember how they were treated. As a woman in STEM, I hope to contribute to a healthcare culture that values empathy alongside innovation and clinical excellence. I am particularly drawn to labor and delivery nursing, a specialty that combines advanced clinical skills with compassionate care. Supporting mothers and families during childbirth is both a responsibility and a privilege, and I hope to make a difference by providing evidence-based care while creating a supportive, empowering environment. By helping women feel respected, informed, and safe during childbirth, I aim to advocate for patient-centered care and positive health outcomes. Through my career, I hope to continue growing academically and professionally by strengthening my clinical skills and pursuing advanced education or certifications. Nursing is a lifelong learning profession, and I am motivated by the opportunity to continually improve my knowledge while advocating for patients. Ultimately, as a woman in STEM, I hope to make a meaningful difference by using science, compassion, and leadership to positively impact individuals, families, and communities—one moment at a time.

I chose healthcare as my field of study because I have been surrounded by it for most of my life. Several of my family members work in healthcare, and growing up, I had the opportunity to observe their experiences firsthand. Through their stories and daily routines, I gained a realistic understanding of what it truly means to work in a hospital setting. I saw the long hours, emotional challenges, and difficult moments that come with caring for patients who are ill or vulnerable. At the same time, I witnessed the deeply rewarding aspects of healthcare—the gratitude of patients, the trust placed in caregivers, and the meaningful connections formed during critical moments. These experiences shaped my desire to pursue a career in nursing. From an early age, I learned that nursing is about more than providing medical care. Through my family’s experiences, I saw how nurses serve as sources of comfort, reassurance, and support for patients and their families. Often, patients relied on nurses not only for treatment, but also for emotional strength during some of the most challenging times of their lives. I learned that even small actions, such as offering a kind word or being a calming presence, can make a lasting impact. Witnessing this inspired me to pursue a profession where I could make a meaningful difference in people’s lives every day. I was raised with strong values centered on humility, kindness, and respect for others, and these principles have guided my interest in nursing. Healthcare allows me to live out these values by caring for individuals as whole people, not just medical cases. I want to be the kind of nurse who treats every patient with dignity and empathy, understanding that how patients are treated often stays with them long after the medical details are forgotten. Providing compassionate care during vulnerable moments is something I view as both a responsibility and a privilege. As I consider my long-term goals, my interest in nursing continues to grow, particularly in the area of labor and delivery. I am drawn to this specialty because it allows me to support mothers, newborns, and families during one of the most meaningful and vulnerable times in their lives. Being present during childbirth requires both technical skill and emotional awareness, and I hope to provide families with not only safe, knowledgeable care but also reassurance and support during these life-changing experiences. Ultimately, I chose healthcare because it allows me to combine my passion for science, my desire to serve others, and my commitment to compassion into one purposeful career. The difference I want to make is simple but powerful: to positively impact lives by providing care that is skilled, empathetic, and respectful, and to be someone patients and families can trust during their most important moments.

I considered pursuing a career in nursing largely because of the influence of my family members who work in healthcare. Growing up, I had the opportunity to see their experiences firsthand and gain a realistic understanding of what it means to work in a hospital setting. I witnessed the long hours, emotional strain, and difficult moments that come with caring for patients who are ill or vulnerable. At the same time, I also saw the rewarding side of healthcare—the gratitude of patients, the trust placed in caregivers, and the meaningful relationships formed during moments of need. Observing these experiences helped me realize how impactful and fulfilling a career in nursing can be. Through my family’s stories and experiences, I learned that nursing is not only about providing medical care but also about offering compassion, reassurance, and support. I saw how patients and their families often relied on nurses not just for treatment, but for comfort during some of the most challenging times in their lives. Even small gestures, such as a kind word or a reassuring presence, made a lasting difference. Witnessing this inspired me to pursue a profession where I could make a tangible, positive impact on others. From an early age, I was taught the importance of serving others with humility, kindness, and respect. These values have guided my desire to pursue nursing, a profession that allows me to live out these principles every day. Nursing offers the opportunity to care for individuals as whole people, not just as medical cases. I want to be the kind of nurse who treats every patient with dignity and empathy, recognizing that how patients are treated often stays with them long after the medical details are forgotten. My interest in nursing has continued to grow as I consider my long-term goals within the field. I am especially drawn to labor and delivery nursing, where I can support mothers, newborns, and families during some of the most meaningful and vulnerable moments of their lives. Being present during childbirth is both a responsibility and a privilege, and I hope to provide both skilled medical care and emotional support during these critical experiences. Ultimately, nursing allows me to combine my passion for healthcare, my interest in science, and my desire to help others into one purposeful career. Knowing that I can learn something new each day, care for different individuals, and positively influence lives motivates me to pursue this path with dedication and compassion.

My name is Kaylah Felix, and I am 19 years old. One of the most impactful experiences in my life has been my academic journey and the process of discovering the career path that truly aligns with who I am. Graduating with the Class of 2025 while earning my associate degree at the same time was a defining achievement for me. Only two other students and I accomplished this, and the experience taught me invaluable lessons about dedication, consistency, and believing in my goals even when the workload felt overwhelming. This achievement helped shape my confidence and encouraged me to think deeply about the kind of life and career I want to build. Throughout this journey, my family had the greatest impact on my life. Their constant encouragement, support, and belief in me gave me the strength to keep going during moments of doubt. They taught me the importance of hard work, perseverance, and serving others with compassion. Knowing that my family stood behind me, even when the path felt difficult, gave me the courage to challenge myself academically and personally. Their influence helped me understand that success is not achieved alone and that having a strong support system makes even the hardest goals possible. An event that dramatically impacted my life was shadowing a dietitian at my local hospital. Initially, I planned to pursue a career in dietetics because of my interest in health, nutrition, and helping people improve their well-being. While the experience was informative, it became a turning point for me. I realized that although dietitians play an important role, the daily responsibilities of the position did not align with the level of connection and impact I hoped to have with patients. This realization forced me to reflect on what truly fulfilled me and pushed me to reconsider my future. That moment led me to nursing. I have always been taught to serve others, and I believe I have a big heart and a strong desire to care deeply for people. Nursing stood out as a profession that would allow me to support individuals during their most vulnerable and emotional moments. I am especially drawn to labor and delivery nursing because I love babies and find meaning in the idea of supporting families during one of the most significant experiences of their lives. The responsibility, emotion, and compassion involved in this specialty inspire me. Ultimately, my family’s influence and the experiences that challenged my original plans helped shape the person I am today. They taught me that growth often comes from reevaluating your path and choosing what truly aligns with your purpose. These moments have had the biggest impact on my life and continue to guide my goals for the future.

I am 19 years old, and my journey toward a career in healthcare has been shaped by both academic challenges and personal experiences that taught me perseverance, self-belief, and compassion. My college journey began unexpectedly in eighth grade when my math teacher encouraged me to take my first college-level course. At the time, I doubted whether I was capable, but that experience revealed a strength I did not know I possessed. Continuing to take college courses throughout high school helped me stay focused during lockdown and motivated me to set an ambitious goal: graduating high school with an Associate in Arts degree. Balancing high school classes, college coursework, extracurricular activities, responsibilities at home, and a social life was overwhelming at times. One of my greatest challenges was facing discouragement from my high school counselor, who told me my goal was unrealistic. Instead of allowing her doubt to derail me, it strengthened my determination. I learned how to manage my time, persevere through criticism, and advocate for myself. Becoming one of only three students in my graduating class to earn a college degree alongside my high school diploma reinforced my belief that challenges do not define limits—they reveal potential. At the same time, my desire to pursue a career in medicine, specifically nursing, was shaped by growing up surrounded by healthcare professionals in my family. I witnessed the emotional weight of caring for patients during their most vulnerable moments. I saw the exhaustion, the long hours, and the difficult days—but also the compassion, gratitude, and human connection that define healthcare. Watching how a simple act of kindness could comfort a patient or reassure a family showed me the profound impact healthcare professionals can have beyond clinical treatment. These experiences combined have strongly influenced my decision to pursue nursing. My academic journey taught me discipline, resilience, and confidence, while my personal exposure to healthcare instilled empathy and purpose. Together, they have prepared me to handle the demands of a medical career with both competence and compassion. In healthcare, I hope to make a positive impact by being a nurse who treats patients as whole individuals. I want to create an environment where patients feel safe, heard, and valued. Whether through a warm greeting, patient education, or emotional support during difficult moments, I aim to make care more human. My experiences have taught me that setbacks do not weaken us—they strengthen our ability to serve others. By applying the lessons I have learned, I hope to positively influence my community and provide care that truly makes a difference.

Education is important to me because it provides the foundation necessary to serve others with knowledge, confidence, and integrity. Growing up surrounded by the realities of healthcare through my family members who work in the field, I learned early on that good intentions alone are not enough. Caring for people during their most vulnerable moments requires skill, understanding, and a commitment to continual learning. Education equips me with the tools I need to provide safe, effective, and compassionate care, and it allows me to grow into a professional others can trust. Through my family’s experiences, I witnessed the emotional and physical challenges that healthcare workers face daily. I also saw how education empowers nurses to respond calmly in difficult situations, advocate for patients, and make informed decisions that directly affect lives. This showed me that education is not just about earning a degree—it is about responsibility. By pursuing a nursing education, I am committing myself to learning how to care for people in a way that honors their dignity and prioritizes their well-being. Education is also important to me because it allows me to live out the values I was raised with: humility, compassion, and service to others. Nursing combines my passion for helping people with my interest in science, and education bridges the gap between the two. Through learning, I can strengthen my clinical skills while also developing the emotional intelligence needed to support patients and families through fear, pain, and uncertainty. A strong educational foundation ensures that my kindness is supported by competence in my work. The legacy I hope to leave is one rooted in compassion, trust, and meaningful impact. I want to be remembered as a nurse who truly cared—someone who made patients feel safe, valued, and understood. Whether through a warm smile, a comforting presence, or taking the time to listen, I want people to remember that they were treated as human beings, not just medical cases. I hope families will remember that during some of their hardest moments, there was someone who offered reassurance and support. Beyond individual patient interactions, I want my legacy to reflect dedication to growth and lifelong learning. By continuing my education and striving to improve, I hope to set an example of professionalism and service. Ultimately, I want my education to empower me to give back to my community and leave behind a legacy of compassion, competence, and genuine care.

I am passionate about nursing because it allows me to combine compassion, service, and clinical skill in a way that directly improves the lives of others. My passion for this profession was shaped at a young age by family members who work in healthcare. Through their experiences, I gained a realistic understanding of what it means to work in a hospital—the long hours, emotional challenges, and responsibility of caring for individuals who are suffering. While I saw how demanding the profession can be, I also witnessed the beauty of nursing: the gratitude of patients, the reliance of families during difficult moments, and the powerful impact that kindness and empathy can have on healing. These experiences inspired me to pursue nursing as a meaningful and purposeful career. From an early age, I was taught to put others first and to serve my community with humility, compassion, and respect. Nursing allows me to live out these values every day. I am passionate about becoming a nurse who not only provides excellent clinical care but also recognizes patients as individuals with emotional, physical, and spiritual needs. I hope to make people feel seen, heard, and valued during some of the most challenging moments of their lives. Whether through a warm smile, a reassuring word, or simply being present when words are not enough, I believe small acts of kindness can make a lasting difference. Patients may forget the technical details of their care, but they always remember how they were treated and how they were made to feel. Through my career as a nurse, I hope to continually grow both professionally and personally. I want to deepen my knowledge, strengthen my clinical skills, and pursue advanced education or certifications that will allow me to provide the highest quality of care. Nursing is a lifelong learning profession, and I am motivated by the opportunity to improve patient outcomes while becoming a stronger advocate for those in my care. The area of nursing I hope to enter is labor and delivery. I am drawn to this specialty because it allows nurses to support mothers, newborns, and families during some of the most important and vulnerable moments of their lives. In this specialty, I hope to make an impact by providing compassionate, evidence-based care while offering emotional support and reassurance to families. By creating a calm, supportive environment, I aim to help mothers feel empowered, safe, and respected throughout the childbirth process. Ultimately, my goal is to be a nurse who makes a meaningful difference—one patient, one family, and one moment at a time.

Being a first-generation Mexican American college student fills me with pride and a strong sense of responsibility. It means that I’m walking a path that no one in my family has traveled before, and every step I take is both a challenge and an opportunity. It’s a journey that has required determination, resilience, and a lot of hard work, but it’s also given me a deep appreciation for the sacrifices my parents have made to give me the opportunities they never had. Their tireless work, their belief in me—even when I doubted myself—and their constant encouragement have been my foundation, and I carry their lessons with me every day. My college journey started in eighth grade when my math teacher gave me the chance to take a college-level math class. I surprised myself by not only enjoying it but excelling in it. That experience helped me stay focused during lockdown and eventually inspired me to pursue my Associate in Arts degree while still in high school. Balancing high school, college classes, extracurricular activities, responsibilities at home, and a social life was exhausting at times, but I’ve always been motivated by hard work and persistence. One of the toughest challenges I faced wasn’t the academics—it was discouragement from a high school counselor who told me my goal was unrealistic. Instead of giving up, her doubt fueled my determination. By the time I graduated, I was one of only three students in my class to finish high school with a college degree. This taught me that it doesn’t matter how you start; what matters is how you finish. Pursuing nursing is my next step. Growing up surrounded by family members in healthcare, I saw both the challenges and the beauty of caring for patients. I’ve seen how even small acts of kindness—a warm smile, a gentle word, or a comforting hug—can make a lasting difference. Nursing feels like the perfect way to live out my values of compassion, service, and humility while making a real impact on people’s lives. I also love the science behind the field and the fact that every day brings something new to learn and someone new to help. This scholarship would bring me one step closer to achieving my goals. It would help ease the financial burden of continuing my education so I can focus on learning, gaining clinical experience, and growing as a nurse. More importantly, it would allow me to honor my parents’ sacrifices and keep pushing toward a meaningful career where I can care for others, make a difference in my community, and show that first-generation students can break barriers and build brighter futures. Being a first-generation student means perseverance, courage, and heart. It’s about turning challenges into lessons, using setbacks as fuel, and keeping sight of the bigger dream: creating a life of opportunity, stability, and purpose—not just for myself, but for my family and those I serve.

My name is Kaylah Felix, and I am 19 years old. I graduated with the class of 2025 with my associate degree, an accomplishment I am extremely proud of. Only two other students and I completed both high school and college simultaneously, and achieving something so significant at a young age strengthened my confidence and encouraged me to think seriously about the kind of career that would bring meaning to my life. Initially, I intended to pursue dietetics because I have always been interested in health and helping people make choices that support their well-being. To explore the field, I shadowed a dietitian at my local hospital, and although the experience was informative, I realized the daily responsibilities did not match the type of work I wanted to do. I worried that this career would not be fulfilling for me in the long term. I want to pursue a degree in nursing because I grew up surrounded by the realities of healthcare through the experiences of my family members who work in the field. From a young age, I saw what it truly means to care for people during their most vulnerable moments—the long hours, the emotional challenges, and the weight that comes with helping patients who are suffering. But I also witnessed the beauty in this work: how deeply patients appreciated their kindness, how families relied on them for comfort, and how even small gestures could make difficult situations more bearable. Seeing this firsthand made me realize how meaningful a nursing career can be, and it sparked a passion in me that has only grown stronger over time. I have always been taught to put others first and to serve my neighbor with humility and compassion. Nursing allows me to live out these values daily while combining my love for science with my desire to help others. I hope to make a positive impact by treating every patient with empathy, respect, and dignity. I want to be the nurse who makes someone’s day brighter, whether it’s through a warm smile, a comforting word, a small act of kindness, or simply being a calming presence when someone feels anxious or scared. My goal is to help patients feel safe, valued, and supported while assisting families through challenging times. Ultimately, I want my work in nursing to have purpose. Whether caring for new mothers and their babies, supporting a patient through recovery, or simply listening to someone who needs reassurance, I hope to bring comfort, compassion, and encouragement to every interaction. By combining clinical expertise with genuine care, I aim to positively influence my community, making a meaningful difference in the lives of the people I serve. Knowing I can make even a small, lasting impact motivates me to pursue this path with dedication, compassion, and a commitment to service.

My motivation for pursuing advanced education in nursing stems from both my personal experiences and my desire to serve others in a meaningful way. Growing up with family members who work in healthcare, I witnessed firsthand the realities of hospital life—the long hours, the emotional challenges, and the demands of caring for people during their most vulnerable moments. At the same time, I saw the beauty in their work: the gratitude of patients, the comfort they brought to families, and the power of small acts of kindness to make difficult situations more bearable. These experiences inspired me to pursue nursing because I wanted a career where I could combine my passion for science, my compassion for people, and my desire to make a positive impact. I have always been taught to put others first and to serve with humility, and nursing feels like the perfect way to live out these values every day. I aspire to be the nurse who not only provides excellent clinical care but also treats every patient with dignity, patience, and care, making them feel seen, valued, and safe. This path has required hard work, perseverance, and sacrifices, but I am motivated by the vision of achieving financial stability and providing for my future family. More importantly, I want to honor my parents, who worked tirelessly to provide me with opportunities they did not have for themselves. Their guidance, support, and unwavering belief in me inspire me to continue striving toward my goals. Completing my degree will not only be a personal accomplishment but also a reflection of their sacrifices and encouragement, reminding me that my education can serve as a foundation for a life of purpose, service, and meaningful contribution to others. I am determined to finish my education efficiently and successfully so that I can create a secure future for my family, give my parents the comfort and pride they deserve, and set an example for future generations. Receiving this scholarship would greatly benefit me by helping alleviate the financial burden of advanced education, allowing me to focus more fully on my studies, clinical skills, and professional development. It would enable me to pursue my dream of becoming a skilled, compassionate nurse without distraction, while moving closer to my long-term goals of stability and opportunity for my family. This support would allow me to grow both personally and professionally and equip me to positively impact the lives of patients and families, fulfilling my career aspirations while giving back to my community in a meaningful way.

I was inspired to pursue an associate degree in nursing largely because of the influence of my family members who work in healthcare. Growing up, I was able to witness through their experiences what it truly means to work in a hospital—the long hours, the difficult moments, and the challenges that come with caring for people who are suffering. But alongside those challenges, I also saw the beauty in their work. I observed how deeply patients appreciated their kindness, how families relied on them for comfort, and how even small gestures could ease the pain of a difficult situation. Witnessing this firsthand made me realize how meaningful a career in healthcare can be and inspired me to follow a similar path, seeking a profession where I could make a tangible, positive impact on the lives of others. From an early age, I was taught to put others first and to serve my neighbors with humility and compassion. Nursing offers the perfect way to live out these values every day. Pursuing an advanced certification or degree allows me to deepen my skills, increase my expertise, and expand the ways I can care for patients. I want to be the nurse who not only provides excellent clinical care but also treats patients as human beings with dignity and respect. I want to make someone’s day brighter—whether that is with a warm smile, a kind word, a small gesture of encouragement, or simply a comforting presence when words are not enough. I understand that even the smallest acts of kindness can distinguish a nurse who simply performs tasks from one who truly makes a difference. Patients may forget exact medical details, but they always remember how they were treated and how they were made to feel. My goal in pursuing this degree is to specialize in an area where I can have the most meaningful impact—labor and delivery nursing. I hope to support mothers, newborns, and families during some of the most important and vulnerable moments of their lives. By developing my skills, I will be able to provide higher-quality care, improve outcomes, and offer both medical expertise and emotional support in critical situations. Nursing allows me to combine my passion for healthcare, my love for science, and my desire to serve others into one purposeful career. Knowing that I can see something new every day, care for someone new every day, and positively influence lives motivates me to continue growing professionally and spiritually as a nurse.

My vision for myself as a nurse in the future is rooted in the values, experiences, and inspirations that first drew me into the healthcare field. I was inspired to pursue nursing largely because many of my family members work in healthcare. Growing up, I saw through their experiences what it is truly like to work in a hospital—the long hours, the difficult moments, and the emotional challenges that come with caring for people who are suffering. But I also saw the beauty in what they did. I saw how deeply patients appreciated their kindness, how families relied on them for comfort, and how even small gestures could make a painful and frightening situation a little more bearable. Witnessing this firsthand showed me how meaningful a career in healthcare can be, and it sparked an undeniable desire in me to follow a similar path. My vision as a future nurse is to carry those same values into every interaction I have. I was raised to put others first and to serve my neighbor with compassion and humility, and nursing feels like the perfect way to live out those values every single day. I want to be the person who makes someone’s day a little brighter—the nurse who smiles warmly when entering a room, who greets every patient with genuine care, who brings a small treat to lift someone’s spirits, or who offers a comforting hug when words fall short. I want to treat every patient not just through my clinical work but through the way I honor their humanity. I also understand that even the smallest act of kindness can make the difference between a nurse who simply performs tasks and a nurse who truly cares. Patients may forget the exact medications or procedures they received, but they always remember how they were made to feel. My vision is to help my patients feel comfort, safety, and dignity in every moment. I want them to know they matter—not merely as cases to be treated but as individuals with emotions, fears, and hopes. Ultimately, I see myself growing into a nurse who finds purpose and fulfillment in every shift. Nursing allows me to combine my desire to help others, my passion for science, and my compassion for people into one meaningful path. Knowing I will encounter something new every day and help someone new too inspires me. My vision is to make a genuine, lasting impact—one patient, one family, and one small act of kindness at a time.

I currently give back by serving consistently in my church, participating in ministry, and supporting the people around me in ways that reflect compassion and humility. My life is strongly centered around faith, community, and acts of service, and being involved in these areas helps me stay grounded in my purpose. Whether I am helping with church events, engaging in children’s ministry, or simply being a source of encouragement to someone who needs it, I try to give back with sincerity and intention. There are moments when balancing school, responsibilities, and my walk with Christ becomes overwhelming, but even in those times, I have learned to slow down and reconnect spiritually. Giving back is not always about grand gestures—it is often about being present, listening, and offering kindness when it matters most. My desire to make a positive impact is also deeply influenced by my family’s involvement in healthcare. Many of my relatives work in hospitals, and growing up, I saw firsthand the long hours, emotional challenges, and physical demands of caring for people who are suffering. But I also saw the remarkable beauty in their work. I witnessed how patients appreciated their empathy, how families relied on them during moments of fear, and how even the smallest acts—like a smile or a gentle word—brought comfort. These experiences opened my eyes to how meaningful and impactful a medical career can be, and they sparked my interest in pursuing nursing. Through prayer and reflection, I eventually felt called to become a labor and delivery nurse. This path allows me to combine my love for babies, my compassion for families, and my desire to witness the miracle of life. I hope to support mothers during vulnerable moments, celebrate new beginnings with families, and help save lives when situations become critical. My goal is to let God’s love flow through every interaction—whether I am praying silently over a newborn, calming a worried parent, or simply offering a moment of patience. I believe small acts of kindness can leave lasting impressions. In the future, I plan to make a positive impact on the world by being a nurse who treats every patient with dignity, respect, and genuine care. I want families to feel safe and valued, and I want every child I encounter to be welcomed with compassion. Ultimately, I hope my career becomes an extension of my faith, my service, and the purpose God has set for my life. With His guidance, I will strive to bless every life I touch.

Growing up surrounded by family members who worked in healthcare deeply shaped my desire to pursue a medical career. From a young age, I heard stories about the long hours they worked, the difficult situations they faced, and the emotional weight that comes with caring for people who are suffering. But alongside the challenges, I also witnessed the beauty of their work. I saw how patients were comforted by a gentle voice, how families relied on them during moments of fear, and how even small acts of kindness brought hope. Seeing this firsthand showed me that healthcare is not just a job, but a meaningful calling. These experiences inspired me to explore nursing as a career, and the more I learned, the more I felt drawn to it. I was raised to put others first, serve my neighbor with compassion, and approach every situation with humility. Nursing allows me to live out those values daily, not only through clinical skills but through the way I treat each patient as a human being deserving of respect. I want to be the nurse who brightens someone’s day with a warm smile, who offers a kind word when anxiety is high, or who provides a comforting presence when emotions overwhelm. I believe that even the smallest gestures can make a profound difference. Patients may forget medical details, but they never forget how they were made to feel. I want them to feel comfort, safety, and dignity every time I walk into the room. To me, nursing is an opportunity to bring hope into vulnerable moments and remind people that they matter. My passion for science also strengthens my desire to enter the medical field. I love that nursing blends knowledge, skill, and compassion, and that every day offers something new to learn. The idea of improving someone’s health while also supporting their emotional wellbeing excites me, and it motivates me to work hard toward this goal. Through my career, I hope to make a meaningful difference by caring for each patient with intention and heart. Whether by providing excellent clinical care, advocating for their needs, or simply listening when they feel unheard, I want to positively impact lives. Knowing that I can play even a small role in someone’s healing inspires me to pursue nursing wholeheartedly. I am committed to continual growth so I can serve my patients with excellence and compassion everyday.

I actively live out my faith each day by striving to let my relationship with Christ guide my decisions, my actions, and the way I treat others. Much of my life is centered around church, ministry, and serving my community, which helps keep me grounded. Still, I have learned that living out my faith requires intentional time with God, not just routines or good intentions. When life becomes overwhelming—whether with school, responsibilities, or the noise of the world—I remind myself to slow down, reconnect spiritually, and realign my heart with Christ. My faith also shapes the choices I make, especially regarding my support for Pro-Life values. I do not vote for laws, bills, or politicians who go against the protection of unborn life, because I believe every life is created by God with purpose from the moment it begins. My faith has been central in shaping my future goals and career path. For a long time, I believed I would pursue dietetics, but over time I realized it did not fulfill the deeper calling God placed on my heart. Through prayer and reflection, I felt led toward nursing—a field that aligns with my compassion, my desire to serve, and my love for babies. Many of my family members work in healthcare, and witnessing their experiences showed me both the challenges and the extraordinary beauty of caring for people during their most vulnerable moments. Seeing the impact they made on patients and families inspired me to pursue a career where I could do the same. Labor and delivery nursing, in particular, allows me to witness the miracle of life every day while supporting mothers, newborns, and families through some of their most emotional and sacred moments. It is a specialty that beautifully intertwines my Pro-Life values with my desire to care for others. I plan to use my education not only to provide excellent clinical care but also to protect and honor life at every stage. Whether I am praying silently over a newborn, comforting a mother, or offering reassurance to a worried family, I want God’s love to shine through my actions. Even small gestures—a warm smile, a gentle tone, or a moment of patience—can reflect Christ’s compassion. Ultimately, my goal is to be a nurse who makes others feel valued, safe, and cared for. I want my career to be an extension of my faith, my calling, and my commitment to serve. With God’s guidance, I hope to make a meaningful difference and protect the dignity of life in every patient I encounter.

Being a first-generation Mexican American college student fills me with a deep sense of pride, especially when I reflect on how far I have come and how much I have had to push myself to grow. My journey has been full of challenges, sacrifices, and moments of uncertainty, but every obstacle has strengthened my determination to keep moving forward. Even though I still have a long way to go, I feel motivated rather than discouraged, because I know each step brings me closer to achieving my dreams. I am grateful for the opportunity to continue my education, and I understand that every accomplishment represents not only my own hard work but also the dedication and support of my family. Everything I achieve is connected to the sacrifices they made for me, and that inspires me to keep striving. My main goal is to finish college, establish a meaningful career, and achieve financial stability so I can create a secure and fulfilling future for myself and my family. I dream of building a life filled with opportunity—one where I can support a future family and ensure they grow up with everything they need. More importantly, I want to give my parents the kind of comfort and happiness they never had the chance to experience while raising me. They have spent their lives working tirelessly, often without rest, just to give me opportunities they never received. Their belief in me, even when I doubted myself, has carried me through difficult times and continues to push me forward. Throughout my life, my parents guided me with the wisdom and strength they gained through their own experiences. They taught me the value of commitment, responsibility, and resilience, not through lectures but through their daily actions. They might not have always been able to help academically, but their encouragement was constant and powerful. Their lessons about hard work and dedication have stayed with me throughout my academic journey, influencing every decision I make and reminding me why I must keep going. Because of all they have done for me, I feel a strong responsibility and desire to finish my degree as efficiently and successfully as possible. I want to honor their sacrifices, make them proud, and open doors for future generations in my family. My journey is not just about earning a diploma; it is about breaking barriers, creating opportunities, and building a future shaped by determination and gratitude. I am committed to working hard, staying focused, and achieving every goal I set.

I want to pursue a degree in nursing because I grew up surrounded by the realities of healthcare through the experiences of my family members who work in the field. From a young age, I saw what it truly means to care for people during their most vulnerable moments. I saw the long hours, the emotional challenges, and the weight that comes with caring for patients who are suffering. But more importantly, I also witnessed the beauty of their work—how deeply patients appreciated their kindness, how families relied on them for comfort, and how a small gesture could make a painful situation a little more bearable. Seeing this firsthand made me realize how meaningful a nursing career can be, and it sparked something in me that has only grown stronger over time. I have always been taught to put others first and to serve my neighbor with humility and compassion. Nursing feels like the perfect way to live out those values every single day. It combines my desire to help people with my passion for science, and it allows me to make a real, positive difference. In this profession, I will not only help others through clinical skills, but also through the way I treat them as human beings—with respect, empathy, and dignity. I want to be the nurse who makes someone’s day a little brighter: the one who enters the room with a warm smile, offers a sincere good morning, brings a small treat to lift a patient’s spirits, or gives a comforting hug when words are not enough. I know that even the smallest act of kindness can be the difference between a patient feeling alone and a patient feeling cared for. People may forget the medical terms or procedures, but they never forget how they were made to feel. As a nurse, I hope to contribute to my community by being a steady source of support, comfort, and compassion. I want my patients to feel safe, valued, and understood. I want to help families navigate difficult moments and offer reassurance when they need it most. Whether I am caring for new mothers and their babies, supporting someone through recovery, or simply listening to a patient who feels scared, I want to be a positive presence in my community’s healthcare system. Ultimately, I want my work to have purpose. Nursing gives me the chance to serve others wholeheartedly while growing as a person and a professional. Knowing I can make even a small positive impact motivates me to pursue this path with dedication and passion.

1. My name is Kaylah Felix, and I am 19 years old. I graduated with the class of 2025 with my associate degree, an accomplishment I am extremely proud of. Only two other students and I completed both high school and college at the same time. Achieving something so significant at a young age strengthened my confidence and encouraged me to think seriously about the kind of career that would bring meaning to my life. When I first planned my future, I intended to pursue dietetics. I have always been interested in health and helping people make choices that support their well-being. To explore the field, I shadowed a dietitian at my local hospital. Although the experience was helpful, I realized that the daily responsibilities did not match the type of work I wanted to do. I worried the career would not be fulfilling for me in the long run. Growing up in the church, I learned the importance of serving others and loving my neighbor. I know I have a big heart and a strong desire to care for people, which led me to consider nursing. That is when I realized nursing is the right path for me, allowing me to help others with compassion and purpose. 2. To me, empathy means being able to understand, feel, and honor someone else’s emotions, even when their experiences are different from my own. It is the ability to step into another person’s perspective and truly recognize their fear, pain, or uncertainty. Empathy goes beyond listening to what someone says—it includes noticing what they do not say, paying attention to their body language, and responding in a way that brings comfort and reassurance. In healthcare, empathy is not optional. It is the foundation of trust, healing, and connection. My desire to pursue nursing comes largely from the experiences I witnessed within my own family. Many of my relatives work in healthcare, so from a young age, I saw both the demands and the beauty of the profession. I saw the long hours, the difficult moments, and the emotional weight that comes with caring for people who are suffering. But I also saw the gratitude in patients’ eyes, the relief family members felt when someone cared enough to listen, and the power of small acts of kindness. Watching these moments unfold made me realize how meaningful a career in healthcare can be and inspired me to follow a similar path. Growing up in the church, I was taught to put others first and to serve my neighbor with compassion and humility. Nursing feels like the perfect way to live out those values every day. Empathy is especially important in nursing because patients are often at their most vulnerable—they are scared, hurting, or uncertain about what comes next. They need someone who sees them not just as a diagnosis, but as a human being with fears, hopes, and emotions. In my career, I want to be the kind of nurse who brings warmth into every room. I want to be the person who says good morning with a genuine smile, offers a kind word during a difficult moment, or brings a small treat to brighten a patient’s day. I want to be the nurse who gives a comforting hug when words fall short. I know that even the smallest gestures can make the difference between a patient feeling alone and a patient feeling cared for. People may forget the details of their treatment, but they never forget how they were made to feel. To ensure my work is done through a human-centered lens, I will prioritize listening, presence, and respect. This means slowing down when a patient needs reassurance, honoring their dignity, and treating every interaction as an opportunity to bring comfort. It also means remembering that every patient has a story and deserves care that acknowledges their humanity. Nursing allows me to combine my love for science, my desire to help others, and my compassion into a meaningful career. Knowing I can make a positive impact—even a small one—is what motivates me to pursue this path wholeheartedly.

I am 19 years old, and my college journey had a very unique and unexpected beginning. It all started back in eighth grade when my math teacher offered me the opportunity to take a college-level math class for the first time. At the time, I didn’t know what to expect, and I wasn’t sure if I was ready for something so advanced. To my surprise, I not only enjoyed the class but also discovered that I was genuinely good at it. This experience opened a door I didn’t even know existed for me. Taking these classes kept me focused during lockdown, a time when it was difficult for many students to stay motivated. As I transitioned into high school, I continued enrolling in college courses, slowly building confidence in my academic abilities. Before long, I set a major goal for myself: I wanted to graduate high school with my Associate in Arts degree at the same time. Balancing high school classes, college coursework, school clubs, responsibilities at home, and trying to maintain a social life was extremely challenging. Still, I have always enjoyed pushing myself and working hard for what I want. I believed that if I stayed consistent, I could accomplish something truly meaningful. Surprisingly, one of the biggest obstacles I faced throughout this journey wasn’t the coursework—it was my high school counselor. Although she had no authority to stop me, she called me into her office just to tell me that my goal was unrealistic and that many students had attempted it and failed. I was shocked by her discouragement. Instead of letting her words weaken my motivation, they fueled me. Her doubt made me even more determined to prove to myself that I could achieve what she believed I couldn’t. Of course, her negativity wasn’t the only challenge I faced. There were difficult classes, late nights of studying, long weekends filled with assignments, and the constant pressure of managing my time wisely. But every struggle taught me something important about discipline, responsibility, and perseverance. Eventually, all my hard work paid off. I became one of only three students in my entire graduating class to finish high school with a college degree as well. Even though my academic journey is far from over—since I am continuing my education to become a nurse—I gained something incredibly valuable from this experience. I learned that it doesn’t matter how you start; what truly matters is how you finish. Throughout this process, I developed strong time-management skills, learned how to handle criticism, and discovered the importance of believing in myself even when others don’t. None of this would have been possible without my family’s support. They encouraged me, pushed me, and taught me how to advocate for myself when others doubted me. The most meaningful lesson I learned is that other people’s opinions do not define your path. You get to choose the life you want. And no matter what challenges come my way, I know I’ll be okay as long as I have a few true friends and my family by my side.

My name is Kaylah Felix, and I am 19 years old. I graduated with the class of 2025 with my associate degree, an accomplishment I am extremely proud of. Only two other students and I completed both high school and college at the same time, which showed me the value of dedication, consistency, and believing in my goals even when the work felt overwhelming. Achieving something so significant at a young age helped shape my confidence and motivated me to think seriously about the kind of career that would bring meaning and purpose to my life. When I first started planning my future, I intended to pursue a career in dietetics. I have always been interested in health, nutrition, and helping people make choices that support their physical well-being. To learn more about the field, I decided to shadow a dietitian at my local hospital. While the experience was valuable, it also helped me realize that the daily responsibilities of the job did not align with the type of work I envisioned myself doing. Although dietitians play an important role, I felt that the position did not fully utilize the level of education required, and I worried that it would not be fulfilling for me in the long run. Throughout my life, I have been taught to serve others, and I genuinely believe I have both a big heart and a strong capacity to care deeply for people. With that understanding, I began considering other career paths that would allow me to form meaningful connections and make a real difference in the lives of others. That is when I realized that nursing was the right path for me. Nursing would allow me to help people during their most vulnerable and emotional moments. I believe that even a small act of kindness or a brief positive interaction can completely change a patient’s day, and I want to be the kind of nurse who brings comfort, hope, and reassurance to every patient I encounter. I am particularly drawn to labor and delivery nursing. I have always loved babies, and the idea of witnessing the miracle of life every day fills me with joy and purpose. In this field, I could support families during one of the most meaningful experiences of their lives and maybe even save a life. This combination of compassion, responsibility, and emotion inspires me to pursue nursing with determination.

I believe I have learned how to balance life fairly well when it comes to school and my walk with Christ. Much of my life is centered around church, ministry, and serving others, which makes staying grounded feel natural most of the time. However, I am still human, and there have been moments when I become overwhelmed by responsibilities, deadlines, and the constant noise of the world. When that happens, I sometimes forget to slow down and nurture my spiritual life. I have learned that maintaining a strong relationship with God requires intentional time, not just good intentions or routines. For a long time, I believed my future career would be in dietetics. I enjoyed the idea of helping people build healthier lives, but over time I realized the profession did not feel fulfilling enough for me personally. My heart longed for something deeper—something that would allow me to fully use the compassion and love that God placed inside me. God has blessed me with a big heart and a genuine desire to care for others, so after praying and reflecting, I felt called to pursue nursing instead. Nursing allows me to combine my love for babies, my passion for serving others, and my desire to make a meaningful impact. I hope to work in a setting where I can witness the miracle of life every day, support families during vulnerable moments, and help save lives. My goal is to bring the love of Christ into every interaction I have. Whether I am praying silently over a newborn or offering reassurance to a worried parent, I want God’s presence to be felt through my actions. Even the smallest acts of kindness can reflect Christ’s love—whether it is a warm smile, a gentle tone, or a simple moment of patience. My hope is that I can brighten someone’s day and make them feel valued. Ultimately, I want my nursing career to be an extension of my faith, my service, and my purpose. I know this path will challenge me, but I am ready to grow spiritually as I work toward becoming the nurse God has called me to be. I want my life to reflect dedication, compassion, and faith in every step. No matter how demanding the journey becomes, I believe God will guide me, strengthen me, and use me to bless the people I have the honor to care for.

I am 19 years old, and my college journey had a very interesting start. It began back in eighth grade when my math teacher gave me the opportunity to try a college-level math class for the first time. I ended up enjoying it much more than I expected, and to my surprise, I was actually good at it. Taking these classes helped me stay focused during lockdown, and I continued enrolling in them as I transitioned into high school. Before long, I realized I wanted to graduate high school with my Associate in Arts degree at the same time. Balancing high school classes, college coursework, clubs, responsibilities at home, and still trying to maintain a social life was definitely challenging, but I’ve always enjoyed working hard. Ironically, one of the biggest obstacles I faced wasn’t the coursework—it was my high school counselor. Even though she had no power to stop me from pursuing my goal, she called me into her office just to tell me that what I wanted was unrealistic and that many students had tried and failed. I was shocked by her discouragement. Instead of giving up, her negativity motivated me even more. Of course, I faced other challenges along the way, like difficult classes, long nights of studying, and the constant need to manage my time well. But in the end, all of the effort paid off. I became one of only three students in my entire graduating class to finish high school with a college degree as well. Although my college journey is far from over—since I am continuing my education to become a nurse—I learned something important: it doesn’t matter how you start; what matters is how you finish. Through this experience, I learned how to manage my time, handle people’s opinions, and value persistence and hard work. But none of this would have been possible without the support of my family. They guided me, encouraged me, and taught me how to advocate for myself when others doubted me. If anything, the most meaningful lesson I learned is that no matter what others think or say, it doesn’t define you. You get to decide what to do with your life and how you want to live it. And even if the whole world seems to be against me, I know I’ll be okay. All I need is a few true friends and my family by my side.

I was inspired to pursue nursing largely because many of my family members work in healthcare. Growing up, I was able to see through their experiences what it is truly like to work in a hospital—the long hours, the difficult moments, the challenges that come with caring for people who are suffering. But I also saw the beauty in what they did. I saw how deeply patients appreciated their kindness, how families relied on them for comfort, and how even small gestures could make a painful situation a little more bearable. Witnessing this firsthand made me realize how meaningful a career in healthcare can be, and it sparked the desire in me to follow a similar path. I have always been taught to put others first and to serve my neighbor with humility and compassion. Nursing feels like the perfect way to live out those values every single day. In this profession, I will not only be able to help people through my clinical work, but also through the way I treat them as human beings. I want to be the person who makes someone’s day a little brighter—the person who smiles warmly when entering the room, who says good morning with genuine care, who brings a small treat to lift a patient’s spirits, or who offers a comforting hug when words are not enough. I understand that even the smallest acts of kindness can make the difference between a nurse who simply does their job and a nurse who truly cares. Patients may forget the exact medications they were given or the medical terms used, but they always remember how they were made to feel. I want those feelings to be of comfort, safety, and dignity. I want my patients to know that they matter, not only as cases to be treated but as people with emotions, fears, and hopes. Ultimately, I want my job to have a purpose and to feel fulfilling every day. Nursing offers that opportunity in a way few careers do. It allows me to combine my desire to help others, my compassion for people, and my passion for healthcare into one meaningful path. Knowing that I can make even a small positive impact on someone’s life is what motivates me to pursue this profession wholeheartedly. I also really love the science behind the nursing field. The fact I will be able to see something new everyday and help someone new too is so amazing.

1. I want to be a nurse to help others, of course, but specifically a labor and delivery nurse because I love babies, and the fact that I will be able to experience the miracle of life every day is amazing. I chose this career because I want a job that I am passionate about—one where I can make a difference in someone’s life. I believe that even the smallest gesture of kindness can go a long way and have a lasting impact on a person during the short time I interact with them. My goal is to be someone who brings comfort, compassion, and support when people need it most. Ultimately, I just want to be helpful and know that my life’s work is dedicated to serving others first. Nursing allows me to do that in a meaningful and hands-on way. I also genuinely love the science behind nursing. Everything about how the body works is fascinating to me, but the science behind childbirth is especially incredible. It amazes me that the human body not only has the ability to grow and carry a baby, but also to give birth and recover with such strength. Becoming a labor and delivery nurse will allow me to combine my passion for science, compassion for others, and love for newborns. I cannot wait to be able to support new mothers, witness their strength, and help them welcome their babies into the world. Knowing that I could play even a small role in such a powerful moment is exactly why I want to pursue this career. 2. To me, human touch is not just the physical contact one person can share with another. It is much deeper than that. When I think of the phrase “human touch,” I think of something similar to the idea of a “feminine touch”—a presence, a warmth, a sense of care. It is not simply the act of touching, but the act of sharing a piece of what it means to be human with someone else. Human touch can be expressed through love, a warm embrace, shared laughter, a gentle hand on the shoulder, or even a quiet moment of understanding. It is the addition of something real, whole, and deeply personal to any situation. It is what transforms an interaction from routine to meaningful, from clinical to compassionate, and from ordinary to human. This concept is especially important to me when I think about healthcare. I have seen how powerful simple gestures can be—how a hug, a reassuring smile, or a few genuine words of encouragement can completely change a patient’s day or even their outlook on their situation. In moments of fear, uncertainty, or pain, human touch becomes more than comfort; it becomes connection. It reminds patients that they are not alone, that someone is truly present with them, and that their feelings and experiences matter. When a nurse or doctor takes the time to add that human touch, they acknowledge the patient’s suffering on a personal level, not just a medical one. Even if everyone involved knows the patient will get better, showing compassion still makes a significant difference. It helps the patient feel seen, valued, and understood—not just as a case or condition, but as a person. That recognition can be healing in its own way. For me, bringing human touch into healthcare is essential because it aligns with why I want to work in this field in the first place: to care for others wholeheartedly. It is a reminder that medicine is not only about treating the body but also about supporting the spirit. Human touch is what keeps healthcare human.