Kidney disease has left an undeniable imprint as well as reshaping my understanding of health, resilience, and the fragility of life itself. My father has been a pillar of strength despite enduring multiple health battles—two strokes, gout, Bell's palsy, high blood pressure, and diabetes. However, it is his ongoing struggle with kidney disease that has been particularly challenging. Three times a week, he attends the dialysis center, where he undergoes a treatment that underscores the relentless nature of managing chronic illness. These visits have taught me lessons in compassion, patience, and the importance of family support during times of adversity. Witnessing his determination to maintain his health instilled a deep respect for his resilience and strength. The loss of my favorite uncle to kidney failure has been challenging. He was more than an uncle; he was my mentor and best friend. I miss the sound of his voice and the shared moments over meals, especially his enjoyment of hot dogs with red onions—a dish he teased me about because I didn't share his enthusiasm for it. His absence has created a void in our family that cannot be filled; his passing has taught me the harsh reality of kidney disease and its consequences. My health journey, marked by a passion for dance from a young age until I was 19, has been fraught with challenges, and despite the joy it brought me, dancing also brought its share of injuries—from concussions to broken bones, asthma attacks to sprained ankles. Along with these struggles, kidney issues have emerged as a recurring concern, and I frequently have to visit the doctor's office. Navigating these experiences has deepened my empathy for others facing health challenges. It has taught me resilience and the importance of advocating for proactive health management. Each hospital visit has reinforced the fragility of our physical well-being and the necessity of cherishing every moment of good health. Kidney disease has fundamentally altered my perspective on life. It has taught me to appreciate the small joys and to value the time spent with loved ones. It has also spurred me to become an advocate for awareness and support for those battling chronic illnesses like kidney disease. Through education and empathy, I hope to contribute to a greater understanding of these conditions and to promote compassionate care for patients and their families. In conclusion, kidney disease has profoundly impacted my life, reshaping my familial relationships, my understanding of health, and my personal resilience. It has taught me that life's challenges can be overcome with strength and support, and that every moment shared with loved ones is precious. As I continue on my own health journey, I carry with me the lessons learned from my father, my uncle, and my own experiences, striving to live each day with gratitude and compassion.

In my first two years of high school, there was a school nurse whom I deeply respected and admired. He had such a profound impact on not only me but also countless others throughout his career. During my sophomore year, he unfortunately passed away. Mr. Sexton was kind, always ready to listen, and always had words of encouragement when I needed them the most. He always had a genuine concern for me as well as my family. However, his legacy still lives on, and I want to continue it. I want to be in the line of work to make a positive impact and help change people’s lives for the better. There is no better field that I can get into to make a change in people than nursing. As someone who danced from the age of 2 1/2 up until the age of 19 and who also has quite a few health issues, the emergency room is a place I am familiar with. Between having concussions, broken bones, asthma attacks, sprained ankles, and even kidney issues, the only people I could rely on to make me feel better besides my family were the nurses in the pediatric unit. When you’re a kid and in an unfamiliar place, it will be nerve-wracking, but for me, it wasn’t. The pediatric nurses always made me feel safe, comfortable and even loved. In 2017 I was hospitalized for a week due to having seizures. This event was a terrifying experience for me, not knowing why this was happening to me, being away from my dad and sister for a week, and not being able to dance. Besides my mother being there the entire time, the nurses were also there. They held my hand when I was scared, watched my dance competition videos with me, even snuck me some ice cream late at night. If it wasn’t for these nurses, I don’t know how I would’ve been during that experience. But because of them, I felt strong during one of my weakest points. The pediatric nurses and Mr. Sexton’s kindness and genuine concern for the lasting welfare of others have inspired me to choose the path of Pediatric Nursing. Myrtle Aydelotte once said, "Nursing encompasses an art, a humanistic orientation, a feeling for the value of the individual, and an intuitive sense of ethics, and of the appropriateness of action taken."I truly believe that pursuing this field will help me to grow in so many ways. As a responsible person caring for the needs of those who rely on my care. The assurance of quality and effort is needed to ensure that patients are safe and respected. The ear to hear and the voice to advocate for others when they are unable to speak. The eyes to see when patients are in pain or need a nurse's hand for comfort. A smiling face upon awakening just knowing that a nurse is there for reassurance. The power a person needs to encourage them to fight and not give up. That is what I want to give back to patients as a future pediatric nurse.

The journey that led me to pursue a career in the healthcare industry is deeply rooted in personal experiences, marked by the health struggles of my father and my own encounters with compassionate nursing care during challenging moments. These experiences have not only inspired me to view nursing as a calling but have also shaped my mission in the healthcare industry. My father's battles with two strokes, gout, Bell's palsy, high blood pressure, and diabetes have been a testament to the fragility of health. Watching him attend the dialysis center three times a week for kidney treatment highlighted the profound impact of compassionate nursing care during these trying moments. It became clear to me that nursing was not just a profession; it was a calling perfectly aligned with my core values of empathy and service. During high school, I faced personal adversity, grappling with frequent asthma attacks, chronic stomach pains, and other health issues. It was during these challenging times that Mr. Sexton, the school nurse, consistently provided excellent care. His kindness and dedication left an indelible mark on me, igniting a desire to follow in his footsteps. Although he is no longer with us, his legacy fuels my commitment to the noble field of nursing. The recent challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic have further emphasized the critical importance of healthcare professionals. The shortage of medical staff, overwhelming workloads, and the emotional toll on healthcare workers have become stark realities. Visualizing doctors and nurses standing side by side, tirelessly battling to save lives and facing heartbreaking losses, the urgent need for more compassionate and dedicated individuals in the healthcare field becomes apparent. I am eager to contribute to meeting this demand, driven by the belief that a robust healthcare workforce is essential for effectively addressing future health crises. By pursuing nursing, I aim to be part of a solution that ensures hospitals are adequately staffed and prepared to meet the challenges of any potential health crisis. Myrtle Aydelotte's profound words summarize the essence of nursing as an art, a humanistic orientation, and a commitment to the value of the individual. She also stated, "They may forget your name, but they will never forget how you made them feel," echoes deeply with my personal mission. I aspire to be there for my patients, advocating for them when they can't speak for themselves. I want to be the nurse who prioritizes not only the physical health of patients but also their mental wellbeing, understanding that a kind and compassionate nurse can make all the difference in a patient's recovery. By providing this level of support for the medical staff, patients, and their families, I hope to make a positive impact on how people view and experience hospitals. If awarded the scholarship, it would not only alleviate some of the financial burdens associated with my academic journey but also afford me the opportunity to dedicate more time to learning and preparing for the challenges of a nursing career. This support would be instrumental in ensuring that I am well-equipped to uphold the values of compassion, integrity, and excellence in patient care as I strive to continue the legacy of Mr. Sexton. In conclusion, my mission in the healthcare industry is fueled by a profound sense of empathy, personal experiences, and a commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of those facing health challenges. Through nursing, I aspire to contribute to the well-being of individuals, addressing the immediate needs of the healthcare system, and preparing for the uncertainties of the future.

In high school, I explored various career paths in search of my true calling, but none sparked my interest. The turning point emerged during a period of personal adversity, reflecting on my frequent struggles with asthma, chronic stomach pains, and other health issues. Mr. Sexton, the school nurse, consistently provided excellent care during these times. His kindness and dedication left a permanent mark on me, sparking a desire to pursue nursing. Although he is no longer with us, his legacy fuels my commitment to follow in his compassionate footsteps. My second "aha" moment was inspired by my father's health struggles. He has dealt with two strokes, gout, Bell's palsy, high blood pressure, and diabetes, he is now on the transplant list for a kidney, attending the dialysis center three times a week for treatment. Witnessing the profound impact of compassionate nursing care during these challenging moments affirmed that nursing was not merely a profession but a calling perfectly aligned with my core values of empathy and service. The recent challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic have highlighted the critical need for well-prepared and passionate healthcare professionals. Witnessing the shortage of medical staff and the overwhelming demands placed on healthcare workers has underscored the urgency for individuals committed to making a difference in the field. My goal is to be part of the solution, contributing to a resilient healthcare workforce ready to face any future health crises. In pursuing this career choice of mine, I’m enrolled in the JFK Muhlenberg Harold B. and Dorothy A. Snyder School of Nursing. I am diligently working towards obtaining my associate’s degree. Additionally, I am proud to be part of Kean University’s Pathways to BSN program, a stepping stone toward earning my bachelor’s degree in nursing within a year of completing my associate’s degree. This moment in my educational journey is characterized by a profound sense of purpose and genuine enthusiasm for the challenges ahead. Obtaining clinical experiences, knowledge, and hands-on learning opportunities will deepen my understanding of the multiple roles that nurses play in healthcare. The "aha" moment, born from personal adversity, not only redirected my career path but also instilled a profound sense of purpose in my educational pursuits. As I progress along this path, I am not merely accumulating knowledge; I am crafting a meaningful art in nursing, inspired by the impactful care I witnessed during a challenging chapter of my life. In conclusion, the transformative power of nursing witnessed through the legacy of Mr. Sexton and the compassionate care provided to my father has fueled my commitment to becoming a nurse. This journey represents not only a professional endeavor but a personal and heartfelt mission to make a positive impact on the lives of others.

Helping others is a universal language and is an essential part of our society. Helping others is something that many people do naturally, regardless of culture, gender, location, or time. Aiding those in need helps people and communities and makes society more caring, cohesive, and successful. There are seven reasons why it is crucial to help others. Our creator. We are made in his image. So, he is a generous, loving, caring, and helpful being. It is only fitting to have that quality in helping others. Practice giving and people will give to you, says the bible. People take notice that you are a generous person, and as a result, people will likewise do the same for you. Learning this attribute early in life will profoundly affect you as an individual. Building compassion and empathy. One of the best reasons for helping others is that it makes you more empathetic and compassionate. People who need help and who do acts of kindness get a better understanding of the problems those people are facing. This awareness increases understanding, strengthens our relationships, and helps make society more open and peaceful. Building stronger communities. When people in a community help each other, the community grows. Kindness and support make people feel like they fit in and are part of a group. They bring friends closer together, strengthen social ties, and build a vital support network in times of trouble. Stronger communities can deal with local problems, support shared values, and make the world safer for everyone. Growth and happiness for yourself. On a human level, helping other people can be gratifying. Giving our time, skills, or resources to help others makes us feel good and gives us a feeling of purpose. Not only does it make us feel better about our self-worth, but it also helps our mental and physical health. When we help others, we often feel better ourselves, too. Getting people to give more. We set an example for others to follow when we do nice things for other people. When people see how helping others makes a difference, they are likelier to do the same. Over time, this can help create a culture of giving, where everyone feels they have a duty to help others. Dealing with unfair social situations. Helping others is key to fixing society's problems like unfairness and inequality. People and groups can make a real difference when they work together to help underprivileged or disadvantaged ones. Helping others is essential to the fight for a fair and equal society, such as giving money to charities, volunteering, or speaking out. Keeping gratitude and positivity alive. Helping other people makes you feel grateful and positive. Seeing how our actions have improved other people's lives makes us appreciate the good things in our lives even more. Think about it: If you change your point of view, you might feel happier and more hopeful about life. In Conclusion, we are created in God's image. Helping others is just the right thing to do. People become more empathetic, groups strengthen, people grow personally, and gratitude grows. It is also significant for fighting social issues, encouraging people to give, and making the world a better place for everyone. In a world where selfishness and disagreement are common, helping others shows us how mighty kindness is and how much it can change people's lives and the world. As we continue navigating this crazy world, we should not forget how important it has always been to help those in need.

Dream Kia is an attentive and passionate essential worker, welcoming all the joy and challenges of nursing—the one fighting alongside my colleagues through pandemics that rock our world globally. I am The one who prioritizes my patients' physical and mental health; I have a kind and compassionate spirit that make all the difference in my patient's recovery. A supportive impact on how people view and experience hospitals. I am leaving a positive legacy and healing hearts while nurturing future generations with empathy and grace!

My passion for pursuing a nursing degree stems from a remarkable school nurse named Mr. Sexton. During my first two years of high school, he had such a profound impact on not only me but also countless others throughout his career. He was a kind, compassionate, and empathetic man who touched the hearts of everyone he met. Unfortunately, this remarkable man passed away several years ago — but his legacy still lives on — and I want to continue it. As I reminisce on how much Mr. Sexton impacted my life, I realize that the world needs more nurses like him. The COVID-19 pandemic showed us just how vital nurses are. Nurses and doctors worked tirelessly to keep their patients alive, even in the face of devastating loss. They had to deliver heartbreaking news to families through video calls and phone conversations while dealing with physical and mental exhaustion. Myrtle Aydelotte once said, "Nursing encompasses an art, a humanistic orientation, a feeling for the value of the individual, and an intuitive sense of ethics, and of the appropriateness of action taken." Pursuing this field will help me grow in countless ways. Although I am already responsible, I will prioritize the needs of people who rely on me outside my nursing career path. I will demonstrate the necessary qualities and ensure patient safety and well-being. I will enhance my ability to listen empathetically and advocate for others who cannot speak up. A nurse's keen eyes can detect pain or the need for comfort, and their mere presence can bring a smile to a patient's face upon waking up. It takes strength and determination to keep fighting and never give up. To become an expert nurse, I require someone to trust me. As someone who has ADHD, Social Anxiety Disorder, and Dyslexia, I have to navigate through the field of nursing through somewhat of a different lens than other future professionals. Despite my challenges, I am determined to prove that my disorders will not stop me from realizing my goals. I am pursuing a nursing degree at the JFK Muhlenberg Harold B. and Dorothy A. Snyder School of Nursing and studies in Kean University's Pathways to BSN program, which will allow me to complete my bachelor's degree within a year of completing my associate's degree. While attending college, I intend to take advantage of this opportunity to gain as much knowledge, training, education, and technology as possible to help me become a Registered Nurse. These tools will enable me to support medical staff, patients, and their families and leave a positive impression on how people perceive and experience hospitals. There is no greater joy than knowing I can someday play a part in many areas as a registered nurse. A caregiver, teacher, counselor, leader, advocate, and friend providing care that addresses all aspects of a person's well-being. And to carry on the legacy that Mr. Sexton left behind!

My passion for pursuing a nursing degree stems from a remarkable school nurse named Mr. Sexton. During my first two years of high school, he had such a profound impact on not only me but also countless others throughout his career. He was a kind, compassionate, and empathetic man who touched the hearts of everyone he met. Unfortunately, this remarkable man passed away several years ago — but his legacy still lives on — and I want to continue it. As I reminisce on how much Mr. Sexton impacted my life, I realize that the world needs more nurses like him. The COVID-19 pandemic showed us just how vital nurses are. Nurses and doctors worked tirelessly to keep their patients alive, even in the face of devastating loss. They had to deliver heartbreaking news to families through video calls and phone conversations while dealing with physical and mental exhaustion. Myrtle Aydelotte once said, "Nursing encompasses an art, a humanistic orientation, a feeling for the value of the individual, and an intuitive sense of ethics, and of the appropriateness of action taken." Pursuing this field will help me grow in countless ways. Although I am already responsible, I will prioritize the needs of people who rely on me outside my nursing career path. I will demonstrate the necessary qualities and ensure patient safety and well-being. I will enhance my ability to listen empathetically and advocate for others who cannot speak up. A nurse's keen eyes can detect pain or the need for comfort, and their mere presence can bring a smile to a patient's face upon waking up. It takes strength and determination to keep fighting and never give up. To become an expert nurse, I require someone to trust me. As someone who has ADHD, Social Anxiety Disorder, and Dyslexia, I have to navigate through the field of nursing through somewhat of a different lens than other future professionals. Despite my challenges, I am determined to prove that my disorders will not stop me from realizing my goals. I am pursuing a nursing degree at the JFK Muhlenberg Harold B. and Dorothy A. Snyder School of Nursing and studies in Kean University's Pathways to BSN program, which will allow me to complete my bachelor's degree within a year of completing my associate's degree. While attending college, I intend to take advantage of this opportunity to gain as much knowledge, training, education, and technology as possible to help me become a Registered Nurse. These tools will enable me to support medical staff, patients, and their families and leave a positive impression on how people perceive and experience hospitals. There is no greater joy than knowing I can someday play a part in many areas as a registered nurse. A caregiver, teacher, counselor, leader, advocate, and friend providing care that addresses all aspects of a person's well-being. And to carry on the legacy that Mr. Sexton left behind!

I am pursuing a nursing degree at the JFK Muhlenberg Harold B. and Dorothy A. Snyder School of Nursing and studies in Kean University's Pathways to BSN program, which will allow me to complete my bachelor's degree within a year of completing my associate's degree. This journey, however, will take work. As someone with ADHD, social anxiety disorder, and dyslexia, I must view the nursing sector through slightly different lenses than other potential professionals. Nonetheless, I am doing my best to demonstrate that my problems will allow me to achieve my objectives. My previous school nurse inspires me to pursue this career path despite my challenges. He was a gentle, sympathetic, and empathic man who affected everyone he met. He had a tremendous impact on me and numerous others throughout his career, especially during my first two high school years. Unfortunately, this beautiful man died several years ago, but his legacy continues, and I wish to carry on his legacy. As I reflect on how much he influenced my life, I realize that the world needs more nurses like him who can positively impact the lives of others. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the significance of nurses in the medical field. Nurses and doctors have worked tirelessly to keep their patients alive, despite terrible losses. They've had to deliver heartbreaking news to families via video conversations and phone calls while dealing with physical and mental exhaustion. Myrtle Aydeotte once said, "Nursing encompasses an art, a humanistic orientation, a feeling for the value of the individual, and an intuitive sense of ethics, and of the appropriateness of action taken." I have no idea how the medical staff must feel, but once I become a registered nurse, I want to be able to provide support to my fellow nurses. I want to be the one who helps people overcome their tiredness and maintains their spirits. I want to be the person who advocates for patients when they are unable to speak for themselves. I want to be that nurse who prioritizes their patients' physical and mental health because a caring and compassionate nurse can make or break a patient's rehabilitation. By assisting medical staff, patients, and their families, I can influence how people see and experience hospitals. Pursuing this field means more to me than just obtaining a degree. It means knowing I can someday participate in many areas as a registered nurse. A caregiver, teacher, counselor, leader, advocate, and friend providing care that addresses all aspects of a person's well-being. And to carry on the legacy that Mr. Sexton left behind!

The day I met Mr. Sexton, the school nurse at my old high school, was the day that changed my life forever. He was a kind, compassionate, and empathetic man who touched the hearts of everyone he met. During my first two years there, he had such a profound impact on not only me but countless others throughout his career. Unfortunately, this beautiful man passed away several years ago — but his legacy still lives on — and I want to continue it. As I reminisce on how much he impacted my life, I realize that the world needs more nurses like Mr. Sexton that can positively impact their lives. The COVID-19 pandemic has shown us just how vital the medical field is. Nurses and doctors have worked tirelessly to keep their patients alive, even in the face of devastating loss. They have had to deliver heartbreaking news to families through video calls and phone conversations while dealing with their physical and mental exhaustion. Myrtle Aydelotte once said, "Nursing encompasses an art, a humanistic orientation, a feeling for the value of the individual, and an intuitive sense of ethics, and of the appropriateness of action taken." I can't imagine how these workers feel but I want to be there. I want to be the one who helps them fight through their exhaustion and keeps their spirits up. I want to be the one who advocates for patients when they cannot speak for themselves. I want to be that nurse that prioritizes not only the physical health of their patients but also their mental well-being because a kind and compassionate nurse can make all the difference in a patient's recovery. As someone who has ADHD, Social Anxiety Disorder, and Dyslexia, I have to navigate through the field of nursing through somewhat of a different lens than other future professionals. Despite my challenges, I am determined to prove that my disorders will not stop me from realizing my goals. I am pursuing a nursing degree at the JFK Muhlenberg Harold B. and Dorothy A. Snyder School of Nursing and studies in Kean University's Pathways to BSN program, which will allow me to complete my bachelor's degree within a year of completing my associate's degree. While attending college, I intend to take advantage of this opportunity to gain as much knowledge, training, education, and technology as possible to help me become a Registered Nurse. These tools will enable me to support medical staff, patients, and their families and leave a positive impression on how people perceive and experience hospitals. Pursuing this field means more to me than just obtaining a degree. It means knowing I can someday participate in many areas as a registered nurse. A caregiver, teacher, counselor, leader, advocate, and friend providing care that addresses all aspects of a person's well-being. And to carry on the legacy that Mr. Sexton left behind!

My passion for pursuing a nursing degree stems from a remarkable school nurse named Mr. Sexton. During my first two years of high school, he had such a profound impact on not only me but also countless others throughout his career. He was a kind, compassionate, and empathetic man who touched the hearts of everyone he met. Unfortunately, this remarkable man passed away several years ago — but his legacy still lives on — and I want to continue it. As I reminisce on how much Mr. Sexton impacted my life, I realize that the world needs more nurses like him. The COVID-19 pandemic showed us just how vital nurses are. Nurses and doctors worked tirelessly to keep their patients alive, even in the face of devastating loss. They had to deliver heartbreaking news to families through video calls and phone conversations while dealing with physical and mental exhaustion. Myrtle Aydelotte once said, "Nursing encompasses an art, a humanistic orientation, a feeling for the value of the individual, and an intuitive sense of ethics, and of the appropriateness of action taken." Pursuing this field will help me grow in countless ways. Although I am already responsible, I will prioritize the needs of people who rely on me outside my nursing career path. I will demonstrate the necessary qualities and ensure patient safety and well-being. I will enhance my ability to listen empathetically and advocate for others who cannot speak up. A nurse's keen eyes can detect pain or the need for comfort, and their mere presence can bring a smile to a patient's face upon waking up. It takes strength and determination to keep fighting and never give up. To become an expert nurse, I require someone to trust me. As someone who has ADHD, Social Anxiety Disorder, and Dyslexia, I have to navigate through the field of nursing through somewhat of a different lens than other future professionals. Despite my challenges, I am determined to prove that my disorders will not stop me from realizing my goals. I am pursuing a nursing degree at the JFK Muhlenberg Harold B. and Dorothy A. Snyder School of Nursing and studies in Kean University's Pathways to BSN program, which will allow me to complete my bachelor's degree within a year of completing my associate's degree. While attending college, I intend to take advantage of this opportunity to gain as much knowledge, training, education, and technology as possible to help me become a Registered Nurse. These tools will enable me to support medical staff, patients, and their families and leave a positive impression on how people perceive and experience hospitals. There is no greater joy than knowing I can someday play a part in many areas as a registered nurse. A caregiver, teacher, counselor, leader, advocate, and friend providing care that addresses all aspects of a person's well-being.

I am currently pursuing nursing — however, this journey will not be easy. As someone who has ADHD, Social Anxiety Disorder, and Dyslexia, I have to navigate through the field of nursing through somewhat of a different lens than other future professionals. Even so, I am trying my best to prove that my disorders will not stop me from realizing my goals, but rather my story will help propel me toward them. The day I realized that I wanted to be a nurse, was the day I met Mr. Sexton, the school nurse at my old high school. He had such a profound impact on not only me but countless others. Unfortunately, this wonderful man passed away several years ago — but his legacy still lives on — and I want to continue it. As I reminisce on his lasting impact, I realize that the world needs more nurses like Mr. Sexton. The pandemic has shown us just how vital the medical field is. Nurses and doctors have been working tirelessly to keep their patients alive, even in the face of devastating loss. They've had to deliver heartbreaking news to families through video calls and phone conversations, all while dealing with their physical and mental exhaustion. I can't even imagine how these workers feel, but I know that I want to be there for them. I want to be the one who helps them fight through their exhaustion and keeps their spirits up. I want to be the one who advocates for patients when they can't speak for themselves. I want to be that nurse that not only prioritizes the physical health of their patients but also their mental well-being because a kind and compassionate nurse can make all the difference in a patient's recovery. By providing such support for the medical staff, patients, and their families, I hope to make a positive impact on how people view and experience hospitals. Between working, school, assisting my mom in taking my dad to and from the dialysis center for treatment, and scheduled appointments, I am not able to volunteer as much as I would like. However, I manage to volunteer at the local church food bank near me twice a month by creating and giving out healthy snack bags. That is why if awarded this scholarship, it would impact not only my life but also the lives of others that I plan to affect. It would allow me to dedicate more time to my studies, to volunteering, and better prepare myself for a future in nursing. With the money saved thanks to this scholarship, I can use it towards my education, such as investing in educational technologies and services catered towards those with Dyslexia and ADHD that will better assist me with my learning experience and academic performance. Additionally, rather than having to delay my studies due to finances, receiving this award would mean being able to help even more people sooner as a registered nurse — just like my school nurse did for me.

The day I met Mr. Sexton, the school nurse at my old high school, was the day that changed my life forever. He was a kind, compassionate, and empathetic man who touched the hearts of everyone he met. During my first two years there, he had such a profound impact on not only me but countless others throughout his career. Unfortunately, this wonderful man passed away several years ago — but his legacy still lives on — and I want to continue it. As I reminisce on how much he had an impact on my life, I realize that the world needs more nurses like Mr. Sexton that can positively impact their lives. The COVID-19 pandemic has shown us just how vital the medical field is. Nurses and doctors have been working tirelessly to keep their patients alive, even in the face of devastating loss. They've had to deliver heartbreaking news to families through video calls and phone conversations, all while dealing with their physical and mental exhaustion. I can't even imagine how these workers feel, but I know that I want to be there for them. I want to be the one who helps them fight through their exhaustion and keeps their spirits up. I want to be the one who advocates for patients when they can't speak for themselves. I want to be that nurse that not only prioritizes the physical health of their patients but also their mental wellbeing, because a kind and compassionate nurse can make all the difference in a patient's recovery. By providing such support for the medical staff, patients, and their families, I hope to make a positive impact on how people view and experience hospitals. As Myrtle Aydelotte once said, "Nursing encompasses an art, a humanistic orientation, a feeling for the value of the individual, and an intuitive sense of ethics, and of the appropriateness of action taken." Pursuing this field means more to me than just obtaining a degree. It means dedicating myself to caring for those who rely on me, providing quality care, and ensuring their safety. I'm currently a student at JFK Muhlenberg Harold B. and Dorothy A. Snyder School of Nursing, and I'm working diligently towards my associate's degree in nursing. I've also partnered with Kean University's pathways to BSN program, which will help me obtain my bachelor's degree within a year of receiving my associate's degree. However, this journey will not be easy. As someone who has ADHD, Social Anxiety Disorder, and Dyslexia, I have to navigate through the field of nursing through somewhat of a different lens than other future professionals. Even so, I am trying my best to prove that my disorders will not stop me from realizing my goals. That is why if awarded this scholarship, it would have such a profound impact on my career and academic endeavors. It would allow me to dedicate more time to my studies and better prepare myself for a future in nursing. Rather than having to delay my studies due to finances, receiving this award would mean being able to help even more people sooner as a registered nurse — just like Mr. Sexton did for me.

Pursuing this field means more to me than just obtaining a degree. It means dedicating myself to caring for those who rely on me, providing quality care, and improving both their physical and mental wellbeing. I'm currently a student at JFK Muhlenberg Harold B. and Dorothy A. Snyder School of Nursing, and I'm working diligently towards my associate's degree in nursing. I've also partnered with Kean University's pathways to BSN program, which will help me obtain my bachelor's degree within a year of receiving my associate's degree. However, this journey will not be easy. As someone who has ADHD, Social Anxiety Disorder, and Dyslexia, I have to navigate through the field of nursing through somewhat of a different lens than other future professionals. Even so, I am trying my best to prove that my disorders will not stop me from realizing my goals. Despite the barriers I face, what keeps me motivated to continue pursuing this career field, is my previous school nurse. He was a kind, compassionate, and empathetic man who touched the hearts of everyone he met. During my first two years in high school, he had such a profound impact on not only me but countless others throughout his career. Unfortunately, this wonderful man passed away several years ago — but his legacy still lives on — and I want to continue it. As I reminisce on how much he had an impact on my life, I realize that the world needs more nurses like him that can positively impact their lives. The COVID-19 pandemic has shown us just how vital the medical field is. Nurses and doctors have been working tirelessly to keep their patients alive, even in the face of devastating loss. They've had to deliver heartbreaking news to families through video calls and phone conversations, all while dealing with their physical and mental exhaustion. I can't even imagine how these workers feel, but I know that I want to be there for them. I want to be the one who helps them fight through their exhaustion and keeps their spirits up. I want to be the one who advocates for patients when they can't speak for themselves. I want to be that nurse that not only prioritizes the physical health of their patients but also their mental wellbeing, because a kind and compassionate nurse can make all the difference in a patient's recovery. By providing such support for the medical staff, patients, and their families, I hope to make a positive impact on how people view and experience hospitals. As Myrtle Aydelotte once said, "Nursing encompasses an art, a humanistic orientation, a feeling for the value of the individual, and an intuitive sense of ethics, and of the appropriateness of action taken." If awarded this scholarship, it would have such a profound impact on my career and academic endeavors. It would allow me to dedicate more time to my studies and better prepare myself for a future in nursing. Rather than having to delay my studies due to finances, receiving this award would mean being able to help even more people sooner as a registered nurse — just like my school nurse did for me.

The day I met Mr. Sexton, the school nurse at my old high school, was the day that changed my life forever. He was a kind, compassionate, and empathetic man who touched the hearts of everyone he met. During my first two years there, he had such a profound impact on not only me but countless others throughout his career. Unfortunately, this wonderful man passed away several years ago — but his legacy still lives on — and I want to continue it. As I reminisce on how much he had an impact on my life, I realize that the world needs more nurses like Mr. Sexton that can positively impact their lives. The COVID-19 pandemic has shown us just how vital the medical field is. Nurses and doctors have been working tirelessly to keep their patients alive, even in the face of devastating loss. They've had to deliver heartbreaking news to families through video calls and phone conversations, all while dealing with their physical and mental exhaustion. I can't even imagine how these workers feel, but I know that I want to be there for them. I want to be the one who helps them fight through their exhaustion and keeps their spirits up. I want to be the one who advocates for patients when they can't speak for themselves. I want to be that nurse that not only prioritizes the physical health of their patients but also their mental wellbeing, because a kind and compassionate nurse can make all the difference in a patient's recovery. By providing such support for the medical staff, patients, and their families, I hope to make a positive impact on how people view and experience hospitals. As Myrtle Aydelotte once said, "Nursing encompasses an art, a humanistic orientation, a feeling for the value of the individual, and an intuitive sense of ethics, and of the appropriateness of action taken." Pursuing this field means more to me than just obtaining a degree. It means dedicating myself to caring for those who rely on me, providing quality care, and ensuring their safety. I'm currently a student at JFK Muhlenberg Harold B. and Dorothy A. Snyder School of Nursing, and I'm working diligently towards my associate's degree in nursing. I've also partnered with Kean University's pathways to BSN program, which will help me obtain my bachelor's degree within a year of receiving my associate's degree. However, this journey will not be easy. As someone who has ADHD, Social Anxiety Disorder, and Dyslexia, I have to navigate through the field of nursing through somewhat of a different lens than other future professionals. Even so, I am trying my best to prove that my disorders will not stop me from realizing my goals. That is why if awarded this scholarship, it would have such a profound impact on my career and academic endeavors. It would allow me to dedicate more time to my studies and better prepare myself for a future in nursing. Rather than having to delay my studies due to finances, receiving this award would mean being able to help even more people sooner as a registered nurse — just like Mr. Sexton did for me.

My name is Kia Bratton, I am currently enrolled at JFK Muhlenberg Harold B. and Dorothy A. Snyder School of Nursing. Putting the needs of others above mine has always been my main focus. I always look for opportunities where I can assist or make a difference, such as working at food banks and participating in walkathons to raise awareness for issues that are dear to me. In high school, I would use my lunch period to volunteer in the nurse’s office. During that time, I had the privilege of assisting Mr. Sexton. He was an attentive and caring person. Sadly, this wonderful man passed away several years ago. However, his character continues to impact me to this day. It is because of him, that I am wanting to pursue a career in nursing, specializing in pediatrics. Outside of nursing, I have a passion for the arts. I enjoy playing the violin and cello, and in the past, had the opportunity to participate in the Music Opportunity Program. Up until the age of 16, I actively participated in dance, where I competed in various regional and national dance competitions. I also competed in pageants, which allowed me to go against peers in my age division around the world. These interests of mine have taught me valuable skills such as etiquette, speech, patience, perseverance, problem-solving, self-discipline, and time management. All of these skills will help me in having a successful nursing career. From time to time, I like to reflect on this quote by Myrtle Advelotte, “nursing encompasses an art, a humanistic orientation, a feeling for the value of the individual, and an intuitive sense of ethics, and of the appropriateness of action taken.” I do not desire to help others, rather, I have a willingness to help others. After seeing the strain that the COVID-19 pandemic had on our healthcare system, it was a call to action for me. There were simply not enough workers to assist where needed, and I do not want to see that happen again. A need for more workers is apparent, and I want to help fill that need. As I plan for the future, there are so many moments that I look forward to when I become a nurse. I look forward to providing comfort to those who rely on my care. I look forward to providing excellent quality of care. I look forward to ensuring that my patients feel safe and respected. I look forward to being an advocate for those who are unable to speak up for their own medical needs. Most importantly, I look forward to having my patients have implicit trust in me, knowing that they have someone there, ready to encourage them and assist them in their time of need. I humbly ask if you can consider me as a candidate for this scholarship. Help me to be that person to call on as an active essential worker Nurse Kia Bratton.

My name is Kia Bratton. I am a 20-year-old student from New Jersey studying nursing. I am currently a student at JFK Muhlenberg Harold B. and Dorothy A. Snyder School of Nursing working towards obtaining my associate’s degree in nursing while partnering with Kean University’s pathways to BSN program in order to obtain my bachelor’s degree within a year of receiving my associate’s degree. I have ADHD, Social Anxiety Disorder, and dyslexia. I am trying my best to prove that my disorders will not stop me from obtaining my dreams. I desire to one day become a pediatric nurse. There was a school nurse during my first two years of high school, whom I deeply respected and admired. He had such a profound impact on not only me but also countless others throughout his career. Some time ago, this nurse passed away. Mr. Sexton was so kind, always ready to listen, and he always had words of encouragement when I needed them the most. He always had a genuine concern for me as well as my family. However, his legacy still lives on and I want to continue it. I want to be in the line of work to make a positive impact and help change people’s lives for the better. There is no better field that I can get into to make a change in people than nursing. His kindness and genuine concern for the lasting welfare of another has inspired me to choose the path of Pediatric Nursing. There will never be a time when the medical field is not needed; especially after the 2 ½ year battle of the COVID-19 pandemic. Hospitals are currently running short on nurses and doctors to attend to patients. If we were to see a health crisis like this in the future, there would be more nurses in the medical field. We would be better prepared and equipped to meet the demands of a pandemic more effectively. Myrtle Aydelotte once said, "Nursing encompasses an art, a humanistic orientation, a feeling for the value of the individual, and an intuitive sense of ethics, and of the appropriateness of action taken." I truly believe that pursuing this field will help me to grow in so many ways. As a responsible person caring for the needs of those who rely on my care. The assurance of quality and effort is needed to ensure that patients are safe and respected. The ear to hear and the voice to advocate for others when they are unable to speak. The eyes to see when patients are in pain or when they need a nurse's hand for comfort. A smiling face upon awakening just knowing that a nurse is there for reassurance. The power a person needs to encourage them to fight and not give up. An individual's trust in me that will move me to master the art of a nursing career. If awarded the scholarship, it would have a profound impact on my career and academic endeavors. I could dedicate more time to learning and seeking opportunities to better prepare myself for a future in nursing and less time for the financial obligations required to pursue my career path.

There was a school nurse during my first two years of high school, whom I deeply respected and admired. He had such a profound impact on not only me but also countless others throughout his career. Some time ago, this nurse passed away. Mr. Sexton was so kind, always ready to listen, and he always had words of encouragement when I needed them the most. He always had a genuine concern for me as well as my family. However, his legacy still lives on and I want to continue it. I want to be in the line of work to make a positive impact and help change people’s lives for the better. There is no better field that I can get into to make a change in people than nursing. His kindness and genuine concern for the lasting welfare of another has inspired me to choose the path of Pediatric Nursing. There will never be a time when the medical field is not needed; especially after the 2 ½ year battle of the COVID-19 pandemic. Hospitals are currently running short on nurses and doctors to attend to patients. If we were to see a health crisis like this in the future, there would be more nurses in the medical field. We would be better prepared and equipped to meet the demands of a pandemic more effectively. Myrtle Aydelotte once said, "Nursing encompasses an art, a humanistic orientation, a feeling for the value of the individual, and an intuitive sense of ethics, and of the appropriateness of action taken." I truly believe that pursuing this field will help me to grow in so many ways. As a responsible person caring for the needs of those who rely on my care. The assurance of quality and effort is needed to ensure that patients are safe and respected. The ear to hear and the voice to advocate for others when they are unable to speak. The eyes to see when patients are in pain or when they need a nurse's hand for comfort. A smiling face upon awakening just knowing that a nurse is there for reassurance. The power a person needs to encourage them to fight and not give up. An individual's trust in me that will move me to master the art of a nursing career. If awarded the scholarship, it would have a profound impact on my career and academic endeavors. I could dedicate more time to learning and seeking opportunities to better prepare myself for a future in nursing and less time for the financial obligations required to pursue my career path.