A Journey of Resilience, Compassion, and Dedication to Healthcare My journey toward becoming a registered nurse has been shaped by challenges, determination, and a strong desire to make a difference in the lives of others. I believe healthcare is more than a profession; it is a calling that requires compassion, patience, dedication, and the ability to show up for people during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. These are the values that inspire me as I pursue my Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and work toward my goal of becoming a registered nurse. Growing up, my family experienced obstacles that helped shape the person I am today. My father worked two jobs to provide for our family, while my mother was often away. When I was 14 years old, my father filed for divorce. Those experiences taught me at an early age that life does not always go as planned. I learned the importance of being independent, staying strong, and continuing to move forward even when circumstances are difficult. As the oldest of four children, I also learned responsibility and the importance of looking out for others. These experiences taught me resilience, perseverance, and the value of never giving up on my dreams. My educational journey has also presented financial challenges. I currently work full-time while pursuing my nursing degree, and balancing work, school, and personal responsibilities has not always been easy. Recently, I had to sit out an academic session because my outstanding school balance reached $7,985.68, and I was required to pay at least $4,000 to return. Although I am committed to my education, that amount is difficult to manage on a full-time working salary. Instead of allowing this setback to end my journey, I am actively seeking scholarships, grants, and other financial assistance to help me return to school. I refuse to let financial circumstances determine how far I can go. My passion for healthcare began in 2010 when I entered the medical field as a medical assistant. In 2013, I became a Certified Medical Assistant, and in 2014, I enrolled in the Registered Nursing program at Baton Rouge Community College. I later continued developing my healthcare career as a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA), where I have had the opportunity to care for patients and understand the importance of treating every individual with dignity and respect. Today, I am pursuing my BSN at Chamberlain University. My experiences have strengthened my belief that patients need more than medical treatment; they need someone who listens, advocates for them, comforts them, and makes them feel that they are not alone. Service to others is also important to who I am. Each year, I make an effort to select a family in need and help pay a bill that is at risk of being disconnected. I understand that something as simple as keeping the electricity or water on can make a tremendous difference in a family's life. I also volunteer with St. Vincent de Paul during Thanksgiving to help feed individuals experiencing homelessness. These experiences have taught me that service does not always require a major contribution. Sometimes, the smallest act of kindness can provide hope and remind someone that they matter. My future aspiration is to become a registered nurse, with a particular interest in Labor and Delivery. I have always been fascinated by the human body, pregnancy, and the different stages of bringing new life into the world. I hope to provide compassionate care to mothers and families during one of the most meaningful and sometimes frightening experiences of their lives. I also aspire to become a travel nurse so I can serve diverse communities and bring quality care to patients wherever I am needed. The legacy of Paramedic Eddie Hankins represents the kind of healthcare professional I strive to become someone who demonstrates compassion, resilience, dedication, and a commitment to serving others. I want my patients to remember not only the care I provided but also how I made them feel. Whether through my nursing career or community service, I want to be someone who makes a positive difference. My journey has taught me that obstacles may slow you down, but they do not have to stop you. I am determined to continue my education, serve others, and carry the values of compassion and dedication throughout my nursing career. Kimberly Gray

My Plan for Addressing Current and Future Student Loan Debt Addressing my current and future student loan debt is something I take very seriously because continuing my education and earning my nursing degree are among my greatest goals. Unfortunately, I recently had to sit out this academic session because my outstanding student account balance is $7,985.68. In order to be eligible to return to school, I am required to pay at least $4,000 toward that balance. Although I work full-time and do my best to manage my financial responsibilities, coming up with that amount at one time is a financial hardship. Having to step away from school has been disappointing because furthering my education is something I have worked extremely hard toward. I understand the importance of taking financial responsibility for my education, and I do not take the opportunity to attend college for granted. However, balancing full-time employment, personal responsibilities, and the cost of higher education can be challenging. I do not want my financial circumstances to determine whether or not I can accomplish my dream of becoming a registered nurse. I am taking steps to improve my financial situation and find a way to return to school. I am actively applying for scholarships, grants, and other financial assistance opportunities that can help reduce my outstanding balance and future educational expenses. I am also exploring every resource available through my university, including financial aid assistance, emergency funding, and possible payment arrangements. My goal is to avoid accumulating additional debt whenever possible and to develop a realistic financial plan that will allow me to continue my education without placing an overwhelming burden on myself. As I move forward, I plan to be more intentional about budgeting, setting aside money whenever possible, and applying for financial assistance throughout the academic year. I also understand that earning my degree will require continued financial planning and discipline. I am committed to making responsible decisions that will help me manage my current debt while preparing for future educational expenses. Receiving this scholarship would make a tremendous difference in my life. It would help relieve some of the financial pressure I am experiencing, bring me closer to meeting the amount required to return to school, and allow me to focus more on my education rather than worrying about how I will afford another semester. More importantly, it would give me an opportunity to continue pursuing a career that I am passionate about. My journey has not been without obstacles, but I have learned that setbacks do not have to mean giving up. I remain determined to complete my nursing education, become a registered nurse, and make a positive difference in the lives of others. I am asking for an opportunity to continue working toward that dream. With financial assistance, careful planning, and perseverance, I believe I can overcome this challenge and achieve the educational and professional goals I have worked so hard to reach. Kimberly Gray

Finding Strength in What Stands in Our Way: Understanding Marcus Aurelius Selected Paragraph Author: Marcus Aurelius Book: Meditations Location: Book 5, Section 20 Translator: George Long (1862) "In one respect man is the nearest thing to me, so far as I must do good to men and endure them. But so far as some men make themselves obstacles to my proper acts, man becomes to me one of the things which are indifferent, no less than the sun or wind or a wild beast. Now it is true that these may impede my action, but they are no impediments to my affects and disposition, which have the power of acting conditionally and changing: for the mind converts and changes every hindrance to its activity into an aid; and so that which is a hindrance is made a furtherance to an act; and that which is an obstacle on the road helps us on this road." Source: Marcus Aurelius, Meditations, Book 5, Section 20, translated by George Long. Read the complete text at the Internet Classics Archive. My Understanding of the Passage Marcus Aurelius teaches that obstacles do not have to prevent us from reaching our goals; instead, they can become opportunities to develop strength, wisdom, patience, and determination. I believe the underlying meaning of this passage is that we cannot always control the challenges placed in our path, but we can control how we respond to them and what we learn from them. His philosophy encourages people to change their perspective, take responsibility for their actions, and recognize that difficult experiences can contribute to personal growth. To me, the most important lesson is that what stands in our way does not always have to stop us; sometimes, it becomes the very thing that helps us move forward. Marcus Aurelius was a Roman emperor and Stoic philosopher who wrote Meditations as a collection of personal reflections about life, responsibility, self-discipline, and human behavior. His writings were not simply intended to explain how people should live. They also reflected the challenges he faced and the principles he believed were necessary to become a better person. In this particular passage, he explains that other people and outside circumstances may interfere with our plans, but they do not have to take away our ability to think, make decisions, or maintain our values. He is encouraging readers to recognize the difference between an obstacle and a personal defeat. One part of the passage that stands out to me is the statement that the mind can turn every hindrance into an aid. I understand this to mean that our perspective can change the way we experience difficult situations. For example, someone who experiences disappointment may initially view it as a failure. However, that same disappointment can become a lesson that helps the person make better decisions in the future. A difficult experience can teach patience, improve problem-solving skills, and reveal strengths that someone may not have known they possessed. The situation itself may not change, but the way a person responds to it can make a difference. I also believe Aurelius is teaching that we should not allow other people's actions to determine our character. There will always be individuals who disagree with us, misunderstand our intentions, or create challenges in our personal and professional lives. We cannot control every person's behavior, opinions, or decisions. However, we can decide how we conduct ourselves. Responding with patience, professionalism, and respect instead of anger or resentment requires self-discipline. This does not mean accepting unfair treatment or allowing others to take advantage of us. It means refusing to let negative experiences change the values we want to live by. This philosophy connects to my own life because I have experienced challenges that have tested my patience, confidence, and determination. Living with chronic health conditions while balancing education, work, and personal responsibilities has not always been easy. There are days when physical pain, fatigue, and mental health challenges make ordinary responsibilities more difficult. Sometimes, I have had to adjust my schedule, reconsider my approach, or give myself additional time to complete something. These experiences have taught me that progress does not always happen as quickly as I would like. I have learned that I cannot control every aspect of my health, but I can take responsibility for how I manage it. I can communicate with my healthcare providers, follow recommended treatment plans, recognize when I need rest, and make decisions that support my well-being. I can also choose not to allow a difficult day to convince me that I cannot accomplish my long-term goals. This is where I see a connection to Aurelius's message. My health challenges are real, but they do not have to become the reason I abandon my dreams. Instead, they have taught me to be more patient with myself and more understanding of what others may be experiencing. Another important lesson I take from this passage is that strength does not mean never struggling. Sometimes people believe that being strong means handling everything independently, never asking for help, and never showing emotion. I disagree with that understanding. I believe strength also means recognizing when something is difficult and being willing to seek support. It means accepting that some days will be harder than others without losing sight of the bigger picture. There is a difference between giving up and taking a moment to regain the strength needed to continue. Aurelius's philosophy reminds me that the way forward is not always about avoiding obstacles; sometimes it is about learning how to move through them. My educational journey is another example of how this philosophy applies to my life. I began my healthcare career in 2010 as a medical assistant and earned my Certified Medical Assistant credential in 2013. Today, I am pursuing my Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Chamberlain University. As a first-generation college student, continuing my education is a meaningful accomplishment. It represents years of effort, determination, and a commitment to creating a better future. Balancing school with work, family responsibilities, and personal challenges has required discipline and sacrifice. There have been times when completing assignments, keeping up with responsibilities, and maintaining motivation have felt overwhelming. However, I have learned that every challenge does not have to become a reason to stop. Instead of focusing only on the difficulties, I remind myself why I started. I want to complete my education, become a registered nurse, and build a career that allows me to make a positive difference in people's lives. When I experience setbacks, I try to view them as opportunities to improve my time management, strengthen my study habits, and become more determined. In this way, the obstacles I encounter can become part of my preparation for the future. I also connect Aurelius's message to the kind of nurse I hope to become. My particular interest is Labor and Delivery because I am fascinated by the human body, pregnancy, fetal development, and the process of bringing new life into the world. I want to support mothers and families during a time that can bring excitement, uncertainty, and fear. Pregnancy and childbirth do not always go according to plan. Some families may experience unexpected complications, difficult decisions, or circumstances that are emotionally overwhelming. As a future nurse, I want to provide care that recognizes these challenges while helping patients feel supported, informed, and respected. My personal experiences with health challenges have helped me understand that a person's struggles are not always visible. Someone may appear to be doing well while privately dealing with pain, anxiety, uncertainty, or other difficulties. This understanding has strengthened my desire to approach patients with compassion instead of judgment. I want to listen carefully, explain information clearly, and recognize that every patient has individual needs. I believe a nurse's responsibility goes beyond completing medical tasks. It also includes treating people with dignity and helping them feel that their concerns matter. The passage also reminds me that our challenges can help us become more understanding of others. When we have experienced difficult situations ourselves, we may become more aware of how important encouragement and support can be. I do not believe a person has to experience every hardship to show compassion, but personal experiences can provide valuable perspective. My journey has taught me not to assume that I know what someone else is going through. Instead, I want to approach people with patience, ask questions, and provide support without making them feel judged. I believe another underlying message in Aurelius's writing is the importance of focusing on actions rather than circumstances. It is easy to spend time thinking about what should have happened differently or wishing that life had been easier. However, constantly focusing on what cannot be changed can prevent us from recognizing what we can do today. We can choose to learn something new, improve a habit, ask for help, or take one step toward a goal. Those decisions may seem small, but they can create meaningful progress over time. This lesson is especially important to me as I continue working toward my nursing degree. I understand that becoming a registered nurse will require continued education, clinical experience, dedication, and responsibility. There will be difficult classes, demanding schedules, and situations that challenge me emotionally and professionally. I cannot expect every part of the journey to be easy. However, I can prepare myself by remaining focused, staying open to learning, and remembering the purpose behind my goals. I want to become a nurse who continues growing professionally while maintaining compassion for the people in my care. Aurelius's philosophy also encourages me to stop comparing my journey with the journeys of others. Everyone has a different starting point, different responsibilities, and different obstacles. One person's path may appear easier than another's, but we do not always know what someone has experienced behind the scenes. I have learned that my progress should not be measured by how quickly I reach a particular milestone or whether my life looks like someone else's. My responsibility is to remain committed to my own growth and appreciate the progress I make, even when it happens one step at a time. Ultimately, I understand Marcus Aurelius's message as a reminder that obstacles do not have to become permanent barriers. They can teach us lessons, strengthen our character, and help us discover what we are capable of accomplishing. His philosophy does not suggest that challenges are easy or that people should ignore their struggles. Instead, it encourages us to recognize that our response to difficult situations is one of the most important things within our control. As I continue my education and work toward becoming a registered nurse, I will carry this lesson with me. I know that my journey will include challenges, but I also know that those challenges do not have to determine my future. I want to use what I have learned to become a stronger individual, a dedicated student, and a compassionate nurse. To me, true strength is not measured by how many obstacles we avoid. It is measured by our ability to learn from them, maintain our values, and continue moving toward the things that matter most. That is the underlying meaning I take from Marcus Aurelius's passage: sometimes the very thing that stands in our way can become the experience that helps us find our way forward.

My Journey Living with Chronic Illness: Strength, Resilience, and Purpose Living with chronic illness has shaped my life in ways I never expected. Managing lupus, fibromyalgia, chronic back pain, depression, anxiety, and ADHD has presented physical, emotional, and academic challenges. There are days when pain and fatigue make ordinary responsibilities difficult, and times when mental health challenges affect my focus, motivation, and confidence. Balancing these conditions while pursuing a college education has not always been easy. However, this experience has taught me perseverance, patience, self-awareness, and the importance of continuing toward my goals even when the path looks different than I planned. My health conditions have affected my education by requiring me to be intentional with my time and energy. Symptoms can make it harder to concentrate, complete assignments, or keep up with responsibilities. ADHD can make organization and focus challenging, while depression and anxiety can add emotional weight to a demanding schedule. Physical pain and fatigue can also interrupt my routine. I have learned that needing to slow down does not mean I am giving up. It means recognizing what my body and mind need so I can keep moving forward in a healthy way. My journey has strengthened my desire to become a nurse. Living with chronic conditions has helped me understand how important it is for patients to feel heard, respected, and supported. A health condition affects more than physical well-being; it can also affect emotions, relationships, education, work, and everyday life. I know how meaningful it can be when someone listens, explains information clearly, and treats a person with compassion. I want to provide that kind of care. My experiences remind me that every patient has a story that may not be visible just by looking at them. I began my healthcare journey in 2010 as a medical assistant and earned my Certified Medical Assistant credential in 2013. I am now pursuing my Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Chamberlain University. As a first-generation college student, continuing my education is especially meaningful. There have been obstacles along the way, but I remain committed to becoming a registered nurse. I am especially interested in Labor and Delivery because I am fascinated by the human body, pregnancy, and fetal development. I hope to support mothers and families during an important and sometimes stressful time, helping them feel informed, safe, and cared for. My family has helped shape the strength and values I carry with me. During a difficult period in my childhood, my aunt became my legal guardian and provided stability. She and my uncle, both retired U.S. Army veterans, taught me independence, courage, protecting others, and showing love through actions. Their example helped me understand that family is built through commitment and care. Those lessons continue to influence how I approach challenges and hope to serve others through nursing. Managing my health while continuing school requires ongoing attention and balance. I plan to stay engaged with my healthcare providers, communicate honestly about changes in my symptoms, follow recommended treatment plans, and take medications as prescribed. I also need to make room for rest, maintain routines that support my focus, and use healthy ways to manage stress. Caring for myself is part of making my education and future career sustainable. My chronic illnesses are part of my life, but they do not define my abilities or determine my future. They have taught me resilience and deepened my compassion for people facing challenges others may not see. I am proud of my progress, and I remain determined to complete my degree and become a nurse who treats every patient with dignity, patience, and understanding. I will carry these lessons into every classroom, clinical experience, and patient interaction.

My Ideal Nursing Career My ideal nursing career would be one that allows me to combine my passion for healthcare, my desire to help others, and my commitment to making a difference in people's lives. My dream is to become a Registered Nurse specializing in Labor and Delivery, where I can support mothers and families throughout pregnancy, childbirth, and the beginning of a new chapter in their lives. My passion for healthcare began in 2010 when I started working as a medical assistant. In 2013, I earned my Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) certification, which strengthened my commitment to the healthcare profession. Over the years, I have developed a deeper appreciation for the importance of patient care, compassion, and advocacy. I am currently pursuing my Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Chamberlain University because I want to expand my knowledge, strengthen my clinical skills, and create more opportunities to serve others. I have always been fascinated by the human body, pregnancy, and the development of a baby. Labor and Delivery is especially meaningful to me because it offers the opportunity to care for women during one of the most important and sometimes challenging experiences of their lives. I want to be the nurse who takes the extra time to answer questions, comfort an anxious mother, advocate for her needs, and provide reassurance when unexpected situations arise. I understand that every pregnancy and delivery is different, and I want every patient to feel safe, respected, supported, and heard. My personal experiences with health challenges have also influenced the kind of nurse I hope to become. Living with chronic health conditions has given me a greater appreciation for patients who are managing illnesses that others may not see. I understand how important it is to feel listened to, believed, and treated with compassion. I want to bring that understanding into my nursing career by looking beyond a patient's diagnosis and recognizing the individual behind it. Another part of my dream is to eventually become a Travel Nurse. I would love the opportunity to work in different hospitals, learn from healthcare professionals across the country, experience different communities, and provide care to individuals and families who may have limited access to healthcare resources. I believe travel nursing would allow me to grow both personally and professionally while expanding my ability to make a difference. As a first-generation college student, reaching my educational goals means more to me than simply earning a degree. It represents perseverance, sacrifice, and the determination to create a better future. Balancing school, work, family responsibilities, and my health has not always been easy, but I remain committed to completing my education and achieving my dream of becoming a Registered Nurse. Ultimately, my dream is to become more than a nurse with a degree. I want to become a nurse who makes a lasting difference in the lives of others. My journey has taught me that challenges do not define who we are; our determination to keep moving forward does. I have faced personal, educational, and health challenges, but I refuse to let them determine how far I can go. I want to use every experience, every lesson, and every opportunity to become the kind of nurse I would want for myself and my family during difficult moments. Receiving a scholarship would be more than financial assistance; it would be an investment in my education, my future, and the lives of the people I hope to serve. I am determined to turn my dreams into reality and use my nursing career to leave a legacy of compassion, strength, and meaningful service.

My Journey of Resilience, Healing, and Personal Growth My journey has taught me that strength does not mean never struggling. Sometimes strength means getting out of bed on difficult days, continuing to work toward your goals when your body and mind are exhausted, and refusing to give up on the future you envision for yourself. Throughout my life, I have experienced challenges that have affected both my physical and mental health. Living with depression, anxiety, ADHD, lupus, fibromyalgia, and chronic back pain has presented obstacles that I have had to learn to navigate while balancing my responsibilities, pursuing my education, and caring for my family. Managing my mental health has not always been easy. Depression and anxiety can make everyday responsibilities feel overwhelming, while ADHD presents additional challenges with focus, organization, and staying on track. Living with chronic health conditions has also taught me that my physical and emotional well-being are closely connected. There are days when pain, fatigue, and other health challenges make it difficult to maintain the same pace as everyone else. I have had to learn that it is okay to slow down, recognize my limitations, and give myself grace. One of the biggest lessons I have learned is that asking for help is not a sign of weakness. For a long time, I believed that being strong meant handling everything on my own. However, I have come to understand that taking care of myself must be a priority. I am learning to listen to my body, recognize when I need rest, manage stress, and understand that my health deserves the same attention I give to my work, family, and education. Despite these challenges, I have not allowed my circumstances to take away my dreams. My healthcare journey began in 2010 when I started working as a medical assistant. In 2013, I earned my Certified Medical Assistant certification, and I continued building my experience in healthcare. Today, I am pursuing my Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Chamberlain University. As a first-generation college student, this accomplishment means a great deal to me. Balancing school, work, family responsibilities, and ongoing health challenges requires determination, but I remain committed to completing my degree. My personal experiences have also influenced the kind of nurse I want to become. Living with chronic conditions has given me a deeper appreciation for patients whose illnesses may not always be visible to others. Someone may look perfectly fine on the outside while privately dealing with pain, anxiety, depression, or exhaustion. I understand how important it is to feel heard, believed, and treated with compassion. I want to become a nurse who does not judge patients based on what she sees but takes the time to understand what they may be experiencing. My plan for continuing to manage my recovery and overall well-being is to remain intentional about my physical and mental health. This includes maintaining regular communication with my healthcare providers, following recommended treatment plans, taking medications as prescribed, establishing healthy routines, and seeking support when needed. I also plan to manage my stress by setting realistic goals, maintaining healthy boundaries, making time for rest, and recognizing when I need to step back rather than push myself beyond my limits. I understand that managing chronic conditions and mental health is an ongoing journey, not something that happens overnight. My educational goal is to complete my BSN, become a Registered Nurse, and eventually specialize in Labor and Delivery. I want to use my education and personal experiences to provide compassionate care to mothers, newborns, and families. I also hope to encourage conversations about mental health and chronic illnesses so others understand that they are not alone and should never feel ashamed to seek help. I have learned that my health conditions are part of my story, but they are not the definition of who I am or what I can accomplish. I am more than my diagnoses, more than my difficult days, and more than the challenges I face. I am a woman with goals, determination, and a desire to make a difference. My journey may require additional patience and adjustments, but I remain committed to my education, my well-being, and the future I am working so hard to build. I want my story to remind others that having challenges does not mean giving up on your dreams. Sometimes the greatest achievement is continuing to move forward, even when the journey is not easy.

Turning My Challenges Into a Purpose Growing up, my family life was not always easy. I experienced periods of instability as I moved in and out of my parents' homes. My childhood taught me at an early age that life does not always go as planned, and sometimes the people who make the greatest difference in your life are the ones who choose to step up when you need them most. My aunt had always been a part of my life, but eventually she became my legal guardian and took responsibility for raising me. Along with my uncle, she provided the stability, love, protection, and guidance that helped shape the person I am today. My aunt and uncle are both retired United States Army veterans. They taught me to be independent, fearless, responsible, loving, and caring. Most importantly, they taught me the true meaning of family. They showed me that family is not simply about who you are related to by blood; it is about who stands beside you, makes sacrifices for you, and supports you through life's challenges. Their example taught me that difficult beginnings do not have to determine how your story ends. Those lessons have influenced my educational and professional goals. I began my healthcare career in 2010 as a medical assistant and earned my Certified Medical Assistant certification in 2013. Today, I am pursuing my Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Chamberlain University. As a first-generation college student, I am proud of how far I have come. Balancing work, school, and family responsibilities has not always been easy, but I remain determined to complete my education and become a Registered Nurse. I envision a future where I can use my education, compassion, and experiences to make a difference in people's lives. My goal is to specialize in Labor and Delivery, where I can support mothers and families during one of the most important moments of their lives. I also hope to become a Travel Nurse, allowing me to serve different communities and provide quality healthcare to individuals who need it. Giving back is already an important part of who I am. Each year, I make an effort to help a family in need by paying a bill that might otherwise result in their services being disconnected. I also volunteer with St. Vincent de Paul during Thanksgiving to help feed individuals experiencing homelessness. I believe that even small acts of kindness can change someone's day and sometimes their circumstances. My childhood taught me the importance of having someone who believes in you and provides support when life becomes difficult. My aunt and uncle gave me that foundation, and I want to pass that same compassion on to others. I hope to become more than a successful professional. I want to be someone who encourages others, serves my community, and reminds people that their beginnings do not define their future. My greatest goal is to use the opportunities I have worked so hard for to help others create better opportunities for themselves.

The Power of Showing Up: A Legacy of Compassion and Care One of the greatest lessons I have learned throughout my life is that sometimes the most meaningful way to help someone is simply to show up. We do not always have the answers or the ability to change someone's circumstances, but we can offer kindness, patience, comfort, and support. I believe being present for someone during a difficult moment can make a difference that lasts a lifetime. My healthcare journey began in 2010 when I started working as a medical assistant. In 2013, I earned my Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) certification, and my passion for helping others continued to grow. Working in healthcare has taught me that every individual deserves dignity, respect, and compassion. Behind every medical condition is a person with a family, a story, and feelings that deserve to be acknowledged. Sometimes patients need more than medical assistance; they need someone willing to listen and make them feel that they matter. This lesson became even more personal when my grandmother was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease approximately six months ago. She will be turning 85 this year, and watching someone who has always had such a sharp mind experience changes in her memory has been heartbreaking. It has reminded me to cherish the time I have with the people I love. One of my favorite memories is my grandmother taking all her grandchildren to the Mardi Gras parades. It became a special family tradition filled with laughter, togetherness, and memories we will carry forever. Now, my cousin has continued that tradition, keeping something special that my grandmother started alive for the next generation. Although Alzheimer's may affect her memory, it cannot erase the love she has given us or the memories we created together. Her diagnosis has taught me that showing up sometimes means being patient, listening, spending time together, and making sure someone feels loved even when circumstances become difficult. It has also helped me understand the emotional challenges families experience when caring for someone with a progressive illness. When I reflect on Shaun's legacy, I think about the importance of making a difference through our actions. His legacy reminds me that extraordinary impact does not always come from extraordinary actions. Sometimes, the greatest contribution is being there for someone when they need support the most. I want to carry that lesson into my future nursing career. I am currently pursuing my Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Chamberlain University. As a first-generation college student, reaching this point has required determination, sacrifice, and perseverance. My goal is to become a Registered Nurse specializing in Labor and Delivery, where I can support mothers and families during some of the most important moments of their lives. Ultimately, I want to become a nurse who sees the person behind the diagnosis. I may not always have the answers or be able to change every situation, but I can choose to show up with compassion, patience, and understanding. I hope patients and families remember not only the care I provided but also how I made them feel. To me, that is the true meaning of nursing: showing up, caring deeply, and making a difference one person at a time.

The Impact of Alzheimer's Disease on My Family: A Journey of Love, Memories, and Understanding Alzheimer's disease became personal to me when my grandmother was diagnosed approximately six months ago. She will be turning 85 years old this year and watching someone I love experience this disease has been one of the hardest things my family and I have faced. My grandmother has always been a woman with a sharp mind. She has always been someone whose conversations, thoughts, and memories I admired. Seeing her experience changes in her memory and cognitive abilities has been heartbreaking. It is difficult to accept that someone who has been such an important part of your life is facing a disease that gradually changes the way they think, remember, and experience the world around them. One of the memories I cherish most about my grandmother is how she would take all of her grandchildren to the Mardi Gras parades. It became a special family tradition that we looked forward to every year. Those days were about more than watching parades and catching throws. They were about spending time together, laughing, making memories, and enjoying being a family. My grandmother made sure we had experiences that we could look back on and appreciate as we grew older. Now that she has Alzheimer's, those memories mean more to me than ever. My cousin has continued the tradition of taking the family to the Mardi Gras parades, making sure something my grandmother started lives on through the next generation. It reminds me that although Alzheimer's may affect her ability to remember certain moments, the memories she helped create will always remain in our hearts. Before my grandmother's diagnosis, I understood Alzheimer's disease from a healthcare perspective. I knew it was a progressive disease that affects memory, thinking, behavior, and a person's ability to complete everyday activities. However, understanding a diagnosis through textbooks and healthcare experiences is very different from watching someone you love go through it. I have learned that Alzheimer's does not affect only the individual diagnosed; it affects the entire family. It brings emotional challenges, uncertainty, difficult conversations, and concerns about what the future may hold. Families must learn how to adjust while trying to preserve the comfort, dignity, and quality of life of someone they love. This experience has taught me that Alzheimer's requires patience, understanding, and compassion. Individuals living with the disease may become confused, frustrated, or have difficulty expressing their needs. It is important to remember that these changes are related to the disease and are not intentional. A person should never be made to feel embarrassed or less important because they cannot remember something. They still deserve kindness, respect, dignity, and love. Sometimes caring for someone is not about having all the answers. It is about being present, listening, offering reassurance, and making sure that person knows they are not alone. My grandmother's diagnosis has also helped me recognize the challenges family caregivers face. Caring for someone with Alzheimer's can require significant emotional and physical energy. Family members may have to adjust their schedules, take on additional responsibilities, and make difficult decisions about their loved one's care. They may experience sadness, stress, and feelings of helplessness as they watch someone, they love change. I have learned that caregivers need support, education, and encouragement, too. Families should never feel that they have to navigate this journey alone. My personal experience has changed the way I look at healthcare and strengthened my commitment to becoming a Registered Nurse. My healthcare journey began in 2010 when I started working as a medical assistant. In 2013, I became a Certified Medical Assistant, and I later continued my education to become a Licensed Practical Nurse. Today, I am pursuing my Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Chamberlain University. Throughout my years in healthcare, I have worked with patients who have different medical conditions and needs. I have always understood the importance of treating patients with compassion, but my grandmother's diagnosis has given that responsibility an even deeper meaning. As a healthcare professional, I have learned that treating a patient involves much more than identifying a medical condition or providing medication. It requires understanding the person behind the diagnosis. Every patient has a family, a history, and experiences that make them who they are. Alzheimer's has reminded me that even when a person's memory begins to change, their identity, feelings, and need for human connection should never be overlooked. A patient may not always remember a conversation, but they can still benefit from a caring voice, a reassuring smile, a familiar face, and an environment where they feel safe. This experience has also taught me the importance of educating families. Not everyone understands what Alzheimer's involves or how to respond when a loved one begins experiencing changes. Families need information about the disease, available support options, safety, and ways to manage daily challenges. As a future Registered Nurse, I want to take the time to answer questions, explain medical information, and reassure families who may feel overwhelmed. I want them to know that their concerns matter and that they deserve support just as much as the person receiving care. My educational journey has not always been easy. As a first-generation college student, I understand the sacrifices and determination required to pursue higher education while balancing work and family responsibilities. There have been challenging days, but my experiences have reminded me why I started. I want to continue learning so I can provide better care, advocate for patients, and make a positive difference in the lives of individuals and families. My grandmother's diagnosis has become another reminder of why my education is so important. In the future, I hope to use my nursing education to help raise awareness about Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. I want to encourage families to recognize memory changes, seek medical evaluations when concerns arise, and learn about available support services. I also want to encourage compassion toward older adults living with dementia. When someone repeats a question, forgets a name, or struggles to communicate, they should be met with patience rather than frustration. They are still individuals with feelings, histories, and families who love them. My long-term goal is to become a Registered Nurse specializing in Labor and Delivery. I also hope to become a Travel Nurse one day, allowing me to serve different communities and provide quality care to individuals who need it. Although my grandmother's diagnosis is not directly related to my career specialty, the lessons I am learning will influence every patient I care for. Whether I am supporting a mother welcoming a new baby, caring for an older adult experiencing memory loss, or helping a family through an unexpected diagnosis, I want to approach every situation with compassion and understanding. My grandmother's Alzheimer's diagnosis has taught me not to take time, memories, or family for granted. I cannot change her diagnosis or control what the future holds, but I can make sure she continues to feel loved, valued, and respected. She will always be more than her diagnosis. She is a woman who has lived 85 years, created beautiful memories, brought her grandchildren together, and helped shape our family. Every Mardi Gras parade we attend will remind us of the tradition she started and the love she gave us. Even as my cousin continues that tradition, a part of my grandmother will always be there with us. As I continue my journey toward becoming a Registered Nurse, I will carry these lessons with me. My goal is not simply to earn a degree, but to become the kind of nurse who sees beyond a diagnosis, understands the importance of family, and treats every patient with the dignity, compassion, and respect they deserve.

How My Veteran Guardians' Journey Inspired My Education and Career Goals Being raised by my aunt and uncle, who are both retired United States Army veterans, has had a tremendous impact on my life, education, and career aspirations. My childhood was not always easy. I experienced periods of instability as I moved in and out of my parents' homes. However, my aunt was a constant presence in my life long before she officially became my legal guardian and took custody of me. She and my uncle provided the love, protection, stability, and guidance I needed to become the woman I am today. After dedicating years of their lives to serving our country in the United States Army, my aunt and uncle entered a new chapter by starting their own medical transportation service. Their decision to become entrepreneurs inspired me because it showed me that retirement does not mean the end of pursuing new goals. Instead, it can be the beginning of another opportunity to serve others. Through their business, they found a way to continue helping people by providing transportation for individuals who needed assistance getting to medical appointments and accessing healthcare services. Watching them build something of their own taught me the importance of independence, leadership, hard work, and taking a chance on your dreams. Their military service and entrepreneurial journey taught me that success requires discipline, commitment, sacrifice, and the courage to step outside your comfort zone. They also taught me to be fearless, loving, caring, and protective of the people around me. Most importantly, they taught me the true meaning of family and the importance of showing up for others. These values have influenced my educational journey. I began my healthcare career in 2010 as a medical assistant, became a Certified Medical Assistant in 2013, and later continued my education to become a Licensed Practical Nurse. I am currently pursuing my Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Chamberlain University. As a first-generation college student, I am proud of how far I have come. Balancing work, school, and family responsibilities has not always been easy, but the determination my aunt and uncle instilled in me reminds me to keep pushing forward. My goal is to become a Registered Nurse specializing in Labor and Delivery. I want to provide compassionate care to mothers and newborns while advocating for families during important moments in their lives. Eventually, I hope to become a Travel Nurse and serve communities in different parts of the country. My aunt and uncle showed me that serving others can take many forms. They served our country, built a business that helps people access healthcare, and provided a foundation for my future. I hope to follow their example by using my education and nursing career to make a meaningful difference in my community. Their journey has taught me that where you start does not determine how far you can go. I want to honor their sacrifices by becoming a successful nurse, continuing to serve others, and making them proud of the person they helped raise.

Growing up, my childhood was not always easy. I experienced periods of instability as I moved in and out of my parents' homes. There were times when I did not have the consistency and stability every child needs. Fortunately, my aunt stepped in and became a major part of my upbringing. She had been there for me long before she officially became my legal guardian and took custody of me. Along with my uncle, who is also a retired Army veteran, she provided the love, protection, guidance, and support that helped shape the woman I am today. Coming from a family situation with challenges taught me independence at an early age. I learned that life does not always happen the way we plan, but our circumstances do not have to determine our future. My aunt and uncle taught me to be fearless, responsible, loving, and caring. Most importantly, they taught me the meaning of family and the importance of showing up for the people you love. Those lessons have stayed with me throughout my educational journey. As a first-generation college student, pursuing higher education has been one of my proudest accomplishments. My journey in healthcare began in 2010 as a medical assistant. I became a Certified Medical Assistant in 2013, continued my education to become a Licensed Practical Nurse, and am now pursuing my Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Chamberlain University. Balancing work, school, and family responsibilities has presented challenges, but I remain committed to reaching my goals. I want my educational achievements to represent more than a degree. I want them to demonstrate that regardless of where you begin in life, you can create a different future through determination, hard work, and perseverance. Giving back to my community is something I already make an effort to do, and I plan to continue throughout my nursing career. Each year, I choose a family in need and help pay a bill that might otherwise result in their services being disconnected. I also volunteer with St. Vincent de Paul during Thanksgiving to help feed individuals experiencing homelessness. These experiences remind me that even a small act of kindness can make a tremendous difference in someone's life. In the future, I plan to give back through nursing by providing compassionate care, educating patients, advocating for families, and helping individuals who may not have access to the resources they need. I especially hope to support mothers and newborns through a career in Labor and Delivery. My childhood taught me that having someone believe in you can change the direction of your life. My aunt and uncle did that for me, and I want to be that person for someone else. My goal is not only to become a successful Registered Nurse but also to use my education and experiences to inspire others, serve my community, and remind people that their beginnings do not define their endings.

Being raised by my aunt and uncle, who are both retired United States Army veterans, has played a significant role in shaping the person I am today and the career I aspire to have. My childhood was not always easy. I experienced periods of uncertainty as I moved in and out of my parents' homes. Throughout those difficult times, my aunt remained a constant presence in my life. She had been a part of raising me long before she officially became my legal guardian and took custody of me. She stepped in to provide the love, protection, stability, and guidance I needed. In 2001, she married my uncle, and together they became the foundation of the family and support system that helped shape my future. Both dedicated years of their lives to serving our country in the United States Army. My aunt and uncle taught me lessons that I carry with me every day. They taught me to be independent, fearless, strong, loving, and caring. They showed me the importance of protecting the people you love, standing up for yourself, and never allowing difficult circumstances to determine your future. Most importantly, they taught me the true meaning of family. I learned that family is not just about where you come from or who you are related to by blood. Family is about the people who show up, make sacrifices, protect you, and love you unconditionally. Their actions showed me what commitment and service truly look like. These lessons have influenced my educational journey and my decision to pursue nursing. I began my healthcare career in 2010 as a medical assistant and became a Certified Medical Assistant in 2013. My passion for helping others continued to grow, leading me to become a Licensed Practical Nurse. Today, I am pursuing my Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Chamberlain University. As a first-generation college student, I am proud of how far I have come. Balancing school, work, and family responsibilities has not always been easy, but the independence and determination my aunt and uncle instilled in me remind me to keep pushing forward. I believe nursing is another way to serve others. Just as my aunt and uncle dedicated their lives to serving our country, I want to dedicate my career to caring for individuals and families during some of their most vulnerable moments. My goal is to become a Registered Nurse specializing in Labor and Delivery. I want to support mothers throughout pregnancy and childbirth, advocate for their needs, and provide comfort and reassurance when they need it most. Eventually, I hope to become a Travel Nurse so I can expand my experience and provide compassionate care to communities across the country. Although I did not follow the same military path as my aunt and uncle, I carry the values they taught me into everything I do. Their example taught me that service is not limited to wearing a uniform; it is also demonstrated through how we care for others and the difference we make in their lives. I hope to honor their sacrifices by becoming a nurse who leads with compassion, courage, independence, and love. Most of all, I want them to know that the love, protection, and lessons they gave me helped shape the woman I am today. Their greatest gift was not simply giving me a home but showing me, what family truly means. I hope to spend my life passing those same values on to others.

My journey has been shaped by perseverance, life experiences, and a strong desire to make a difference in the lives of others. Growing up, my family faced challenges that helped shape the person I am today. My father worked two jobs to provide for our family, while my mother was often away. When I was 14, my parents divorced, bringing changes and challenges during an important time in my life. Those experiences taught me the importance of independence, determination, and never giving up, even when life does not go as planned. My passion for helping others led me to begin my healthcare career in 2010 as a medical assistant. In 2013, I became a Certified Medical Assistant, and I later continued my education to become a Licensed Practical Nurse. Today, I am pursuing my Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Chamberlain University. As a first-generation college student, earning my degree represents more than personal success. It represents breaking barriers, creating opportunities, and showing my family that education can open doors to a better future. My goal is to become a Registered Nurse, with a special interest in Labor and Delivery. I want to support mothers and families during one of the most meaningful and sometimes challenging experiences of their lives. Eventually, I hope to become a Travel Nurse so I can serve different communities, expand my knowledge, and provide compassionate care to individuals who need it. Making a positive impact extends beyond my career. Each year, I make an effort to help a family in need by paying a bill that might otherwise result in their services being disconnected. I also volunteer with St. Vincent de Paul during Thanksgiving to help feed individuals experiencing homelessness. I believe that making a difference does not always require having a lot of money or resources. Sometimes, it simply requires a willing heart and a desire to help someone who is struggling. Receiving this scholarship would help ease the financial burden of continuing my education and bring me one step closer to achieving my dreams. I want to use my education, experiences, and compassion to serve others, inspire future generations, and remind those facing challenges that their circumstances do not determine their future. My greatest accomplishment will not simply be earning my nursing degree but knowing that I used my opportunities to make a lasting difference in someone else's life.

1. Tell us about yourself. Why do you want to be a nurse? My name is Kimberly, and I am a dedicated healthcare professional, wife, and first-generation college student who believes in the importance of hard work, perseverance, and helping others. My journey in healthcare began in 2010 when I started working as a medical assistant. In 2013, I became a Certified Medical Assistant, and my passion for caring for others continued to grow. I want to become a nurse because I have always wanted to make a difference in people's lives, especially during their most vulnerable moments. Nursing is more than a career to me; it is an opportunity to provide comfort, compassion, support, and quality care to individuals and their families. I enjoy learning about the human body, understanding how it works, and being able to help people through different stages of life. As a first-generation college student, reaching my educational goals means more than earning a degree. It represents determination, breaking barriers, and showing others in my family that anything is possible with dedication and faith. My goal is to become a Registered Nurse and continue growing professionally while making a positive impact on the lives of others. 2. Describe your experiences working or volunteering as a nurse, or in any other job that made you want to pursue nursing. My experience in healthcare began in 2010 as a medical assistant. Since then, I have had the opportunity to work closely with patients, assist with their healthcare needs, and understand the importance of providing compassionate and respectful care. Becoming a Certified Medical Assistant in 2013 strengthened my commitment to the healthcare field. Working as a Licensed Practical Nurse has allowed me to develop meaningful relationships with patients and understand that every individual deserves to feel heard, respected, and cared for. I have learned that sometimes the smallest acts of kindness, such as listening, offering reassurance, or simply being present, can make a significant difference in someone's day. My experiences have shown me that nursing requires patience, dedication, compassion, and a willingness to continue learning. They have also helped me realize that I want to do more for my patients by expanding my knowledge and skills. These experiences are what continue to motivate me to pursue my Bachelor of Science in Nursing and become a Registered Nurse. 3. Describe your plans for pursuing a career in nursing, including whether you have applied, been accepted, or are currently enrolled in a nursing program. I am currently enrolled at Chamberlain University, pursuing my Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Continuing my education is an important step toward achieving my goal of becoming a Registered Nurse. My educational journey has required commitment, sacrifice, and determination, but I remain focused on completing my degree and reaching my professional goals. As a first-generation college student, I understand the importance of taking advantage of educational opportunities and making the most of the resources available to me. I plan to continue working hard academically while building on the healthcare experience I have gained throughout my career. After earning my BSN and obtaining my Registered Nurse license, I plan to gain additional clinical experience and explore opportunities in Labor and Delivery. I have a special interest in maternal and newborn care because I find the stages of pregnancy, childbirth, and the development of new life fascinating. Eventually, I would also love to become a Travel Nurse, allowing me to expand my nursing experience, serve patients in different communities, and continue growing professionally. Receiving this scholarship would help ease the financial responsibilities of pursuing my education and allow me to focus more on successfully completing my nursing degree. 4. Describe your dream job. My dream job is to become a Registered Nurse specializing in Labor and Delivery, with the opportunity to eventually work as a Travel Nurse. I have always been fascinated by pregnancy, childbirth, and the amazing changes that take place in a woman's body throughout pregnancy. I would love to be part of such an important moment in a family's life while providing safe, compassionate, and supportive care to both mothers and their babies. I want to be the nurse who makes patients feel comfortable, respected, and confident during a time that can be both exciting and overwhelming. I understand that every pregnancy and delivery is different, and I want to have the knowledge and skills necessary to support families through both joyful and challenging experiences. Becoming a Travel Nurse is another part of my dream because it would allow me to explore different healthcare environments, learn from other professionals, and provide care to communities in need. I want my career to be about more than earning a paycheck. I want to leave a positive impact on every patient I encounter. Ultimately, my dream is to become a knowledgeable, compassionate, and dependable nurse who makes a difference in the lives of others. I want to look back on my journey and know that every challenge, sacrifice, and late-night studying was worth it. Kimberly Gray

Growing up, my family encountered obstacles that formed the person I am today. My dad worked two jobs to provide for our family, while my mom was often away. When I was 14, my dad filed for divorce, which brought changes to my life during an important time in my childhood. These experiences showed me the crucial role of perseverance, independence, and working hard to build a better future. I began my healthcare career in 2010 as a Medical Assistant and became a Certified Medical Assistant in 2013. Working with patients strengthened my passion for helping others and inspired me to pursue my Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Chamberlain University. As a first-generation college student, I will overcome challenges and achieve my dream of becoming a registered nurse. I also give back to my community by helping a family in need during the holidays, volunteering at St. Vincent de Paul to feed individuals experiencing homelessness this Thanksgiving, and advocating for mental health awareness. My goal is to become a travel nurse who provides compassionate care to people from all walks of life. I want to use the challenges I have overcome to better understand others, offer comfort during difficult times, and remind people that they are never alone. Through nursing, public service, and mental health advocacy, I hope to make a difference in my life, my family, and my community. My childhood taught me that difficult circumstances do not have to determine my future. Instead, they can inspire me to become stronger, work harder, and help others overcome their own struggles. I will turn my experiences into a purpose that allows me to care for others and make a powerful impact, one life at a time. Kimberly Gray

My name is Kimberly Gray, and I believe that helping others is one of the most meaningful ways to make a difference in the world. Through my healthcare career, public service work, and personal community involvement, I have learned that even small acts of kindness can have a lasting impact. To me, serving others means showing compassion, offering support, and making people feel valued. I began my healthcare career in 2010 as a medical assistant and became a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) in 2013. Working in healthcare strengthened my passion for helping others and taught me the importance of treating every person with dignity, patience, and respect. My experience inspired me to continue my education and pursue my Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Chamberlain University. I also serve my community through my work in public service. Working in a government environment has taught me the importance of integrity, responsibility, and putting people first. I take pride in contributing to work that supports the public and helps meet the needs of others. In addition, I advocate for mental health awareness because I believe everyone deserves to feel heard and supported. I want to help reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and encourage people to seek help without fear of judgment. One of my favorite times of the year is the holiday season because I make it a priority to choose a family in need and help make their holidays brighter. I believe every family deserves to experience kindness, hope, and joy, even when facing financial difficulties. Being able to help another family reminds me that giving is not about how much we have, but about being willing to share what we can. This Thanksgiving, I am also volunteering at St. Vincent de Paul to help feed individuals experiencing homelessness. I am grateful for the opportunity to give my time and serve people who may be going through difficult circumstances. Everyone deserves food, compassion, and dignity, regardless of their situation. I hope my involvement helps someone feel cared for and reminds them that they are not forgotten. These efforts reflect my belief that strong communities are built when people are willing to show up and help one another. As a first-generation college student, I am proud to be pursuing my education and working toward my dream of becoming a registered nurse. My goal is to become a travel nurse so I can provide compassionate, high-quality care to patients from diverse backgrounds. I want to use my education and experience to make a positive difference in the lives of patients and families wherever I serve. Receiving the Books for Good Scholarship would help reduce the financial burden of my education and allow me to focus on my studies. I believe success is not measured only by personal achievements, but also by the difference we make in the lives of others. Whether through healthcare, public service, mental health advocacy, or volunteering, I will continue to serve with compassion and dedication. My mission is to uplift others, strengthen my community, and use my education to make a lasting difference. Kimberly Gray

My decision to return to school was about more than earning a degree. It was about choosing myself, investing in my future, and creating a life where I could have both financial stability and peace of mind. My goal is to become a registered nurse and work in labor and delivery, where I can care for mothers and babies during one of the most meaningful moments of their lives. I have always been fascinated by the human body and how a baby grows throughout pregnancy. I want to turn that passion into a career that gives my life purpose while allowing me to make a difference in the lives of others. Living with diabetes, lupus, and high blood pressure has taught me that health and well-being should never be taken for granted. I understand that life can bring unexpected challenges, and those challenges have made me think more deeply about the future I want to build. Financial stability means being able to manage my responsibilities without constantly worrying about how I will make ends meet. It means having the freedom to prioritize my health, support my family, and pursue my goals without feeling that one unexpected expense could put everything on hold. One of the most important decisions I have made was returning to school even though I already had work and personal responsibilities to manage. I knew that going back to school would require sacrifices, time, and dedication, but I also knew that if I wanted a different future, I had to take the first step. Instead of allowing the challenges to discourage me, I chose to invest in my education and give myself the opportunity to grow. Every class I complete reminds me that I am capable of working toward something bigger than my current circumstances. Today, I am building that future by balancing my responsibilities with my education and staying focused on my long-term goals. I know the journey will not always be easy, especially while managing my health, but I am determined to keep moving forward. For me, financial stability is not simply about having more money. It is about having choices, feeling secure, and being able to care for myself and the people I love. Returning to school was my decision to stop putting my dreams on hold and start building the future I want. I hope to become a nurse who provides compassionate care while creating a life filled with purpose, security, and peace of mind. Kimberly Gray

Living with diabetes, lupus, and high blood pressure has taught me that taking care of your health involves more than just treating physical symptoms. Managing chronic health conditions can be challenging, and I understand how important it is to have support, understanding, and access to proper care. These personal experiences have strengthened my belief that mental and physical health should receive equal attention. As a future registered nurse, I want to use my experiences to help others feel heard, supported, and understood. I believe no one should have to struggle in silence or go without mental health care because they cannot afford it. My unique contribution would be to advocate for affordable resources, educate patients about available support services, and encourage honest conversations about mental health without judgment. I want people to know that asking for help is not a weakness. It takes courage to acknowledge when you are struggling, especially while managing other health challenges. My goal is to use my education, compassion, and personal journey to remind others that they are not alone and deserve quality care, regardless of their financial situation. I hope to make a difference by helping people feel valued, understood, and empowered to care for their whole selves. Kimberly Gray

My passion for health and wellness is personal because I understand how important it is to take care of your body. Living with diabetes, lupus, and high blood pressure has made me more aware of the challenges that can come with managing your health. It has also helped me understand that wellness is not just about treating an illness but about learning how to care for yourself every day. This is one of the reasons I want to become a registered nurse. I want to use my education and personal experiences to encourage others to take their health seriously and understand that small, consistent changes can make a difference. My goal is to work in labor and delivery, where I can care for mothers and babies during one of the most important times in their lives. I have always been fascinated by the human body and how a baby grows and develops throughout pregnancy. As I continue my education, I am learning how important healthy habits, education, and proper medical care are to a person's overall well-being. I want to help expectant mothers understand the importance of prenatal care, nutritious foods, appropriate physical activity, stress management, and following their healthcare provider's recommendations. Dr. Steve Aldana's message about making small, sustainable changes connects with me because I know that managing health is an ongoing journey. Living with chronic health conditions has taught me that taking care of yourself requires consistency, patience, and a willingness to make your health a priority. I want to encourage others to focus on the changes they can make, rather than feeling overwhelmed by everything they may need to improve. Simple steps, such as making informed food choices, staying active when appropriate, keeping medical appointments, and following a treatment plan, can support better health over time. I also want to help patients understand that everyone's health journey is different. As a future nurse, I hope to listen without judgment, answer questions, and provide encouragement to people who may be struggling with their health. I know that living with a health condition can affect more than just the body; it can also affect a person's emotions, daily responsibilities, and quality of life. Sometimes, having someone who listens and offers support can make a person feel less alone. My education will help me turn these experiences and my passion for helping others into a meaningful career. I want to be a nurse who not only provides care but also empowers patients with knowledge and encourages them to make healthy choices that fit their lives. I hope to carry Dr. Aldana's message into my career by reminding people that improving their health does not have to happen all at once. Ultimately, I want to use both my education and my personal experiences to inspire others to prioritize their well-being. My journey has strengthened my desire to help people, and I hope to make a difference by encouraging healthier habits, supporting families, and providing compassionate care. I believe that even small steps can lead to meaningful progress, and I want to help others take those steps toward healthier, fuller lives. Kimberly Gray

Serving others is something that comes from my heart. My faith has taught me that we never know what someone else may be going through, and sometimes people need a little help to get through a difficult time. I believe that if I am in a position to help someone, I should do what I can. Giving back to my community is not something I do for recognition. It is something I do because I genuinely care about people and want to make a difference in their lives. One of the most personal ways I give back is by choosing a family in need each year and paying a bill that is about to be disconnected. I know how stressful it can be to worry about bills and the basic things a family needs. The thought of a family struggling to keep an essential service makes me want to help in whatever way I can. Every year, I make it a priority to find a family that could use a helping hand. Being able to take that worry off a family's shoulders, even temporarily, means so much to me. I often think about how something that may seem small to one person can mean everything to someone else. I may not be able to solve every problem a family is facing, but I can help make one part of their situation a little easier. That is what makes this tradition so meaningful to me. Another way I plan to serve my community is by volunteering with St. Vincent de Paul during its annual Thanksgiving outreach for people experiencing homelessness. I plan to start my Thanksgiving morning by helping serve those who may not have a home or a family to celebrate with. While many people begin Thanksgiving by preparing meals and gathering with loved ones, I want to begin my morning by giving my time to people who may be facing a difficult day. To me, Thanksgiving is about more than the food on the table; it is about gratitude, kindness, and remembering those who may be struggling. I want the people I serve to feel that they matter and that someone cares about them. I believe that sharing my time and showing compassion can make their holiday a little brighter. These experiences remind me that serving others does not always require a lot of money or a grand gesture. Sometimes, it means paying a bill, serving a meal, or taking time out of your day to help someone feel less alone. They also connect to my dream of becoming a registered nurse and working in labor and delivery. I want to care for mothers and babies with the same compassion, patience, and kindness that motivate me to serve my community. Ultimately, I want to continue being someone who helps others whenever I can. My faith encourages me to use what I have to make a positive difference, and I hope to carry that commitment into every part of my life. To me, the greatest reward is knowing that I may have made someone's day easier, given a family peace of mind, or helped someone feel cared for when they needed it most. Kimberly Gray

The moment a mother holds her baby for the first time is a moment she will never forget, and I want to be part of making that experience safe, comforting, and special. My dream is to become a registered nurse and work in labor and delivery, where I can support mothers and their babies during one of the most meaningful moments in their lives. I have always been fascinated by the human body, especially how a baby grows and develops throughout pregnancy. Learning about anatomy and physiology has strengthened my interest in nursing and helped me realize that this is more than a career goal; it is a future I am passionate about pursuing. Working in labor and delivery is especially meaningful to me because I want to be there for women during one of the most important and emotional moments of their lives. Bringing a child into the world is a special experience, but it can also be stressful and overwhelming for mothers and their families. I want to be the kind of nurse who makes patients feel safe, respected, and cared for. I want to help educate mothers, answer their questions, and support them throughout their birthing experience. I understand that nursing requires dedication, patience, hard work, and a willingness to keep learning, and I am prepared to put in the effort it takes to reach my goals. Returning to school is an important step toward creating a better future for myself and my family. Balancing my responsibilities while continuing my education can be challenging, but I am determined to stay focused and complete my nursing education. I know there will be obstacles along the way, but I believe that with hard work, determination, and support, I can accomplish what I set out to do. I want to prove to myself that I can achieve my dreams and build a career that allows me to help others while continuing to grow personally and professionally. Receiving this scholarship would make a meaningful difference in my educational journey. It would help ease the financial burden of tuition, textbooks, supplies, and other expenses associated with attending school. With some of that financial pressure reduced, I would be able to focus more on my studies and dedicate the time needed to succeed in my classes. It would also give me encouragement and motivation to continue working toward my degree without allowing financial challenges to stand in the way of my future. Ultimately, my goal is not just to earn a nursing degree but to become a nurse who positively impacts the lives of patients and their families. I want to look back one day and know that I did not give up on my dreams, even when the journey was difficult. This scholarship would be an investment in my education, my future, and the care I hope to provide to others. I would be truly grateful for this opportunity and would use it as motivation to keep moving forward toward becoming the nurse I have always wanted to be. Kimberly Gray

The family member I lost was my mother, who passed away on May 4, 2022, at only 56 years old. Losing her was one of the most heartbreaking experiences of my life. She was waiting for a liver transplant when she developed sepsis. I never imagined that I would have to face life without my mother so soon. Her passing left a void in my life that words cannot fully explain, and it changed the way I view family, health, and my purpose in life. Watching my mother face serious health challenges was difficult because I wanted her to have more time with us. Knowing that she was waiting for a transplant and then losing her to sepsis made me realize how quickly a person's condition can change. It also helped me understand the fear, uncertainty, and helplessness families can experience when someone they love is critically ill. Although I cannot change what happened to my mother, I carry her memory with me in the decisions I make and the goals I continue to pursue. After her death, I struggled with depression and anxiety while trying to manage my own health challenges, including lupus and diabetes, and living with ADHD. At the same time, I still had responsibilities as a wife, a mother of four, an employee, and a student. Grief affected me in ways I did not always know how to explain. Some days, simply keeping up with my responsibilities took everything I had. There were moments when I questioned whether I could continue pursuing my education while carrying so much emotionally. However, I knew that giving up on my dreams was not what I wanted for myself or my family. This experience has shaped my desire to become a registered nurse. My mother's illness showed me that healthcare is about more than treating a condition. It is also about recognizing the person behind the diagnosis, communicating with families, and helping people navigate frightening and uncertain situations. I want to become a nurse who takes time to listen, explain what is happening, and make patients and their families feel that their concerns matter. I understand that nurses cannot prevent every loss, but they can make a meaningful difference in how patients and families experience difficult moments. Losing my mother also taught me not to take time with loved ones for granted. It reminded me that life does not always follow the plans we make, but we can still choose how we move forward after hardship. I have continued working, caring for my family, managing my health, and pursuing my education because I want to build a future that reflects the lessons her life and passing taught me. My mother's death will always be a part of my story, but it does not have to define me by sadness alone. I choose to honor her memory by continuing my education and working toward becoming the nurse I have dreamed of being. My goal is to use what I have experienced to provide compassionate care, support families during difficult times, and help others feel less alone when facing a health crisis. Through nursing, I hope to turn one of the most painful chapters of my life into a purpose that makes a difference in the lives of others.

I became a mother at 15 years old. At an age when I was still trying to figure out who I was, I was suddenly responsible for another life. I had my second child at 20, my third at 21, and my fourth at 26. Becoming a mother so young changed the path I imagined for myself. My children became my greatest responsibility, but they also became one of my biggest reasons to keep believing that I could build a better future. My educational journey has not been easy or traditional. There were times when motherhood, work, finances, and family responsibilities had to come before school. I had goals that I had to put on hold because my children needed me. There were moments when I wondered if I would ever have the opportunity to finish my education and accomplish something for myself. Still, the dream never completely went away. As my children grew older, so did my determination to return to school and finish what I started. Choosing nursing is deeply personal to me. As a mother, I have experienced healthcare from the perspective of someone who wants answers, understands fear, and wants the best care possible for the people she loves. I know what it feels like to worry about a child and depend on healthcare professionals to explain what is happening. Those experiences helped me understand how much a nurse can mean to a patient and a family during some of their most uncertain moments. My more than ten years of experience working in behavioral health also influenced my decision to pursue nursing. I have worked with people facing emotional and personal challenges and learned that sometimes what a person needs most is someone willing to listen without judgment. I want to take that experience with me into nursing and develop the clinical knowledge to care for patients not only when they are physically ill, but when they are struggling emotionally as well. My goal is to become a registered nurse and especially serve people living with chronic health conditions. My own experiences with healthcare have shown me that illness affects much more than the body. It can affect a person's confidence, family, responsibilities, emotions, and ability to live the life they want. I want to be the nurse who understands that reality and helps patients feel informed and supported throughout their care. Receiving this scholarship would mean more than financial assistance. It would help me continue an educational journey that I started while carrying responsibilities that came much earlier than expected. It would help with tuition, books, nursing supplies, and other expenses while I balance school, work, and my family. Most importantly, it would help me get closer to the degree I have worked for and the career I have spent years preparing for. I cannot change that I became a mother at 15, but I can choose what I do with the life that followed. I want my children to see that having an unexpected beginning does not mean you have to give up on your dreams. I want them to see their mother finish what she started, earn her nursing degree, and become the registered nurse she has worked so hard to become.

My motivation for pursuing advanced education comes from wanting to build on the experience I have gained in behavioral health and use it to become a registered nurse. For more than ten years, I have worked with people facing different emotional, behavioral, and life challenges. That experience has taught me how important it is to listen, communicate clearly, build trust, and understand the person behind the behavior. Pursuing nursing will allow me to expand those skills and provide care that addresses both physical and emotional needs. Working in behavioral health has shown me that a person's mental and physical health are often connected. Someone managing a medical condition may also be experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, fear, or uncertainty. These emotions can affect how they understand information, follow treatment plans, communicate with healthcare providers, and manage their daily lives. My experience has taught me to recognize these challenges and approach people with patience rather than judgment. I want to bring that perspective into nursing. My own experiences as a patient have also influenced my goals. Living with chronic health conditions has given me a firsthand understanding of how healthcare can affect every part of a person's life. I know how important it is to have healthcare professionals who listen, explain information, and treat patients with respect. These experiences have motivated me to become a nurse who helps patients feel informed and involved in their care. Losing my mother in May 2022 strengthened that commitment. She passed away from sepsis while waiting for a liver transplant at only 56 years old. Watching her experience serious illness and seeing its impact on my family gave me a deeper appreciation for the role nurses play in supporting both patients and families. It also reinforced my desire to develop the clinical knowledge necessary to provide meaningful care during vulnerable moments. My goal is to complete my nursing education and become a registered nurse who builds on my behavioral-health background. I want to use what I have learned about communication, emotional well-being, and patient support alongside my nursing education to provide comprehensive care. I am especially interested in working with people who live with chronic illnesses because I understand that their needs extend beyond treating a physical diagnosis. This scholarship would help make that goal more attainable. Balancing nursing school with work and family responsibilities can be financially challenging. Scholarship assistance would help cover tuition, books, nursing supplies, and other educational expenses, reducing some of the financial pressure and allowing me to focus more fully on completing my program. Receiving this scholarship would support more than my education; it would support the next step in a career I have already been preparing for through my behavioral-health work. I want to take the experience I have gained over the past decade and build upon it through nursing so I can serve patients in a broader capacity. My goal is to become a nurse who understands that caring for someone means addressing the whole person, not simply the diagnosis.

When I think about my childhood, one of the people who stands out most is my aunt. She was more than a relative; she was someone who helped raise me, guide me, and provide the support I needed growing up. Being raised by my aunt shaped my understanding of what family means. She showed me that family is not only about who you are related to, but about who is willing to be there, make sacrifices, and help you find your way. Growing up in her care taught me to appreciate the people who step up for others. I learned that caring for someone involves more than providing for their physical needs. It means being present, offering guidance, creating stability, and encouraging someone to believe in themselves. Those lessons have stayed with me into adulthood and have influenced the way I care for my own family and the people I encounter through my work. My upbringing also taught me that everyone has a story that may not be visible to others. That understanding became especially important during my more than ten years working in behavioral health. I have worked with people from many different backgrounds and circumstances and have seen how family experiences, mental health, and life challenges can affect how people cope with the world around them. I try to approach people without judgment and remember that I may not know everything they have experienced. These lessons have also influenced my decision to pursue nursing. I want to become a registered nurse because I want to provide patients with more than medical care. I want to listen, educate, advocate, and offer support when patients and families are facing difficult circumstances. My own experiences with healthcare, along with my mother's illness and passing, have shown me how meaningful compassionate and dependable care can be. Being raised by my aunt also influenced the goals I have set for myself. Her example taught me to value education, responsibility, and the opportunity to create something meaningful with my life. Returning to school and pursuing nursing while balancing work and family responsibilities has not always been easy, but I continue because becoming a nurse is important to me. I want to build a career that allows me to use both my professional and personal experiences to serve others. When I look at where I am today, I can see how much my aunt's influence has shaped me. She helped teach me what it means to show up for someone, and that lesson has followed me into my relationships, my career, and my goals. As I continue my education, I hope to carry that same spirit of care into nursing and become someone patients and families can depend on during some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives.

In May 2022, I lost my mother, and my understanding of mental health changed in a way I could never have learned from a textbook. She was only 56 years old when she passed away from sepsis while waiting for a liver transplant. I had to continue working, caring for my family, managing my own health, and attending school while grieving. During that time, I experienced depression and anxiety while also managing ADHD, lupus, and diabetes. For the first time, I understood mental health not only through my more than ten years of experience working in behavioral health, but as something I was personally experiencing. That experience changed the way I see people. I became more aware that we cannot always see what someone is carrying. A person can show up to work, care for their family, attend school, or simply go through their daily routine while struggling internally. Because of this, I try to be more thoughtful before making assumptions about someone's behavior or circumstances. I have learned that what may look like frustration, withdrawal, or a lack of motivation can sometimes have a deeper story behind it. My experience with ADHD has also influenced the way I approach challenges. Staying organized, managing my time, and maintaining focus while balancing school, work, and family have not always been easy. I have learned to recognize what works for me, ask for help when I need it, and adjust my approach instead of becoming discouraged when something does not go as planned. This has made me more understanding of the different ways people learn, communicate, and manage responsibilities. Mental health has also influenced my relationships. I have become more intentional about communicating my feelings and needs rather than assuming I have to handle everything on my own. I also try to give the people around me room to express what they are experiencing without immediately trying to judge or fix it. These changes have helped me develop greater patience and understanding in my relationships. My professional experience has reinforced these lessons. Working in behavioral health has shown me how mental health can affect a person's relationships, employment, family, decision-making, and ability to manage everyday responsibilities. It has taught me that effective care begins with seeing the individual rather than focusing only on a diagnosis or behavior. These experiences have shaped my goal of becoming a registered nurse. I want to combine my behavioral-health background with my nursing education to care for patients whose physical and emotional needs may be connected. I am especially interested in helping people with chronic illnesses because I understand that managing a health condition can affect much more than the body. I want to educate patients, advocate for their needs, and help them feel respected and involved in their care. Most importantly, my experiences have changed how I understand the world around me. I have learned that people are often dealing with circumstances we cannot see, and that a little patience can make a meaningful difference. My goal is to carry that understanding into nursing and provide care that recognizes the person behind the diagnosis. Mental health has not defined my life, but it has influenced how I understand myself, how I relate to others, and what I want to contribute to the world. It has helped me develop a deeper appreciation for empathy, communication, and the importance of meeting people where they are. I hope to use those lessons to become a nurse who provides knowledgeable care while making patients feel seen, respected, and supported.

In May 2022, I learned how quickly life can change when my mother passed away from sepsis while waiting for a liver transplant. She was only 56 years old. Watching someone I loved become seriously ill and seeing my family navigate the uncertainty that came with her illness changed the way I looked at healthcare. I began to understand that nurses are not only caring for a patient's physical needs; they are also supporting patients and families through some of the most difficult moments of their lives. Losing my mother did not create my interest in healthcare, but it gave my desire to become a nurse a much deeper meaning. Healthcare has also been personal to me because I have experienced what it is like to be a patient. Living with chronic health conditions has taught me that managing your health can affect every part of your life. There are appointments, treatments, questions, responsibilities, and emotions that others may not see. I know how meaningful it can be when a healthcare professional takes the time to listen, explain information clearly, and treat you as a person rather than simply a diagnosis. Those experiences have shaped the kind of care I want to provide. My more than ten years of experience working in behavioral health have strengthened that desire. I have worked with people from different backgrounds and circumstances and learned that what we see on the outside does not always reflect what someone is experiencing internally. A person who seems frustrated, withdrawn, or unwilling to participate may actually be overwhelmed, afraid, or struggling to communicate their needs. My work has taught me to listen before making assumptions and to approach each person with patience and respect. These experiences have inspired me to take the next step and become a registered nurse. I want to combine my behavioral-health experience with nursing education so I can care for patients from both a physical and emotional perspective. I am especially interested in caring for people with chronic illnesses because I understand how much a diagnosis can affect a person's life beyond the healthcare setting. Ultimately, I want to become a nurse who remembers that every patient has a story. I want to educate patients, advocate for their needs, and help them feel comfortable asking questions and participating in their care. My mother's experience showed me the importance of compassionate healthcare, my own experiences have given me insight into the patient perspective, and my career has taught me the value of being present for someone during a difficult time. Together, these experiences inspired me to pursue nursing and shaped the kind of nurse I hope to become.

For much of my life, healthcare has been something I have experienced personally, not just something I have observed. Living with chronic health conditions has meant learning how to navigate appointments, treatments, and the emotions that can come with managing your health. Then, in May 2022, my understanding of healthcare became even more personal when I lost my mother. She was only 56 years old when she passed away from sepsis while waiting for a liver transplant. Experiencing my own healthcare challenges while watching my mother become seriously ill showed me how much a healthcare professional's presence can matter to a patient and their family. Those experiences are a major reason I chose nursing. As a patient, I have learned that healthcare is about more than treating a diagnosis. When you are the person receiving care, you want someone who will listen, explain what is happening, and recognize that you are a person with concerns, responsibilities, and emotions—not just a medical condition. My own experiences have made me appreciate the importance of communication and having someone who makes you feel comfortable asking questions and expressing concerns. My mother's illness deepened that understanding. Watching her wait for a liver transplant and ultimately lose her life to sepsis showed me how vulnerable patients and families can feel when facing serious illness. Her experience made me think about the role nurses play during those moments. Nurses are often the healthcare professionals who spend significant time with patients and families, answer questions, provide reassurance, and advocate for their needs. I want to be that kind of presence for others. My more than ten years working in behavioral health have further shaped my decision. I have worked with people from many different backgrounds and learned that what we see on the outside does not always tell us what someone is experiencing. A person who seems frustrated or withdrawn may be overwhelmed, afraid, or struggling to communicate. My work has taught me to look beyond behavior, listen carefully, and approach each person as an individual. Nursing feels like the next step because it brings together my personal and professional experiences. I want to build on my behavioral-health background while developing the clinical knowledge and skills needed to provide comprehensive care. I am especially interested in working with people who live with chronic illnesses because I understand how those conditions can affect every part of a person's life. My goal is to become a registered nurse who sees the person behind the diagnosis. I want to educate patients, advocate for their needs, and help them feel informed and involved in their care. My experiences have shown me the kind of difference compassionate healthcare can make, and I want to use what I have learned to make that difference for someone else.

In May 2022, I experienced one of the hardest moments of my life when I lost my mother. She was only 56 years old when she passed away from sepsis while waiting for a liver transplant. At the time, I was already balancing work, school, family responsibilities, and my own health challenges. Grieving her while continuing my education was not easy. There were days when I questioned how I could keep moving forward, but I reminded myself that I still had a purpose and a goal I wanted to accomplish. My experiences with my own health, my mother's illness, and caring for others have made healthcare personal to me and strengthened my desire to become a nurse. Living with chronic health conditions has given me a firsthand understanding of what it feels like to depend on healthcare professionals for guidance, understanding, and support. I know that being a patient involves more than managing symptoms or following a treatment plan. It can affect your emotions, family, daily responsibilities, and sense of independence. These experiences have helped me understand how important it is for patients to have healthcare professionals who listen, communicate clearly, and treat them as individuals. My more than ten years of experience in behavioral health have strengthened that understanding. Working with people from different backgrounds has shown me how closely physical and mental health are connected. I have seen how fear, stress, uncertainty, and other emotional challenges can affect a person's ability to manage their health. These experiences have motivated me to expand my role in healthcare and become a registered nurse who can support patients from a broader perspective. My educational goal is to complete my nursing degree and become a registered nurse. I want to combine my behavioral-health experience with my nursing education to provide safe, knowledgeable, and compassionate care. I am especially interested in caring for people with chronic illnesses because I understand that their healthcare needs do not end when they leave a hospital or doctor's office. I want to educate patients, advocate for their needs, and help them feel confident participating in decisions about their care. Continuing my education while balancing work and family responsibilities can be financially challenging. This scholarship would help reduce the cost of tuition, books, nursing supplies, and other educational expenses. Financial assistance would allow me to focus more of my time and energy on my coursework and completing my nursing program. Receiving this scholarship would also support a goal that has personal meaning to me. I have continued pursuing my education through loss, personal challenges, and the demands of everyday life. I want to finish what I started and use my education to serve people who may be facing some of the same uncertainty and challenges I have experienced. Ultimately, I want to become the kind of nurse who understands that there is a person behind every diagnosis. My personal healthcare experiences, my mother's illness, and my behavioral-health career have all shaped the nurse I hope to become. This scholarship would help me continue my education, reach my goal of becoming a registered nurse, and turn my experiences into a career focused on helping others.

In May 2022, my mother passed away from sepsis while waiting for a liver transplant. She was only 56 years old. Watching her go through a serious illness changed the way I understood healthcare and the importance of having someone beside you during one of the most vulnerable times in your life. Although I cannot remember every detail of her care, I remember how much it mattered when healthcare professionals treated her with patience, dignity, and compassion. Those moments stayed with me and helped shape the nurse I hope to become. Losing my mother also gave me a deeper understanding of what families experience when someone they love is seriously ill. Families may have questions they are afraid to ask, emotions they cannot easily express, and uncertainty about what comes next. I learned that caring for a patient also means recognizing the people who are standing beside them. A nurse may not be able to change the outcome, but they can change how a patient and family experience that difficult moment. My more than ten years of experience working in behavioral health has reinforced this lesson. I have learned that every person has a story, and sometimes the most important part of care is taking the time to understand what someone needs. I want to bring that experience into nursing by being a nurse who listens, communicates clearly, advocates for patients, and treats every person with dignity. My mother's experience also strengthened my desire to care for people with chronic and serious illnesses. I understand that illness affects more than the body. It can affect a person's family, emotions, independence, and hopes for the future. I want my patients to know that they are more than their diagnosis and that their concerns matter. Receiving this scholarship would provide meaningful support as I continue my nursing education. Balancing school with work, family responsibilities, and everyday expenses can be challenging. Financial assistance would help reduce some of the burden of paying for my education and allow me to remain focused on completing my nursing degree. I have worked toward becoming a registered nurse for years, and completing my education would allow me to turn my personal and professional experiences into a career of service. This scholarship would not simply help me pay for school; it would help me continue moving toward the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of patients and families. I hope to become the kind of nurse who provides knowledgeable care while also making people feel seen, heard, and respected.

In May 2022, I lost my mother, and a part of my life changed forever. She was only 56 years old when she passed away from sepsis while waiting for a liver transplant. I remember trying to continue with everyday responsibilities while internally struggling to understand how life could keep moving when mine felt as if it had stopped. I still had to work, care for my family, manage my own health, and continue my education while grieving someone who meant so much to me. During one of the most difficult periods of my life, I realized that going to college meant more to me than earning a degree. It meant continuing to believe in my future when life gave me every reason to pause. My journey toward becoming a nurse has not been easy. I have balanced school with work, family responsibilities, and managing my own health. I have experienced depression and anxiety while also managing ADHD, lupus, and diabetes. There have been times when everything felt overwhelming, but I continued working toward my education. Each semester brings me closer to the future I want to create. Going to college means giving myself the opportunity to grow, learn, and create a better future. It has taught me how to manage my time, ask for help, and stay committed when things become difficult. After working in behavioral health for more than ten years, I have seen how education and access to appropriate care can influence a person's life. My experiences have strengthened my desire to continue learning and expand the ways I can help others. What I am trying to accomplish is very personal. I want to become a registered nurse and build on the experience I have gained in behavioral health. I want to combine my professional experience, nursing education, and personal experiences to provide care that recognizes the whole person. My goal is to educate patients, advocate for their needs, and help them feel informed and involved in their care. I am especially interested in caring for people living with chronic illnesses. I understand that managing a chronic condition can affect more than physical health. It can influence family, employment, relationships, independence, and emotional well-being. As a nurse, I want to help patients understand their conditions and treatment while recognizing the challenges they may face outside of the healthcare setting. College also means creating a future that honors where I have come from. Losing my mother changed my life, but it did not end my goals. Continuing my education has given me something to work toward and a way to turn a difficult experience into motivation for my future. I carry my mother's memory with me as I continue pursuing the career I have worked toward for years. I also want my education to set an example for my family. I want them to see that difficult circumstances do not have to determine where life takes you. Completing my nursing degree would represent years of effort and would allow me to build a career centered on caring for others. Ultimately, going to college means creating possibilities. I am working toward becoming a registered nurse, expanding my ability to serve others, and building a future that reflects my experiences and values. Earning my degree would be more than an academic accomplishment. It would be proof that I continued moving forward and turned my experiences into a purpose that can positively impact others.

In May 2022, I lost my mother, and a part of my life changed forever. She was only 56 years old when she passed away from sepsis while waiting for a liver transplant. I still remember having to continue with everyday responsibilities even though internally I was struggling to understand how life could keep moving when mine felt as if it had stopped. I had to work, care for my family, manage my own health, and continue my education while grieving someone who had been such an important part of my life. I experienced depression and anxiety during a time when I was already managing ADHD, lupus, and diabetes. For the first time, I understood mental health not only through my work, but through my own experience. That experience changed my perspective on myself, my relationships, and the kind of nurse I hope to become. Before losing my mother, I understood mental health largely through more than ten years of experience working in behavioral health. Experiencing my own emotional challenges gave that knowledge a deeper meaning. I learned that struggling does not make a person weak and that asking for help can be part of healing. I also learned that someone can continue working, caring for their family, and meeting responsibilities while carrying pain that others may never see. This realization made me more aware of the experiences people may be facing beneath the surface. That awareness has influenced how I approach my own challenges. Living with ADHD has required me to develop strategies for staying organized, managing my time, and maintaining focus while balancing school, work, and family. I have learned to recognize what helps me succeed and to adjust when something does not work. These experiences have made me more patient with myself and more accepting of the fact that people may need different approaches to reach the same goal. This perspective has also shaped my relationships. I am less likely to make assumptions about someone's behavior because I understand that circumstances are not always visible. I have become more intentional about communication and more comfortable expressing my own needs rather than believing I must handle everything independently. As a result, I approach relationships with greater patience and understanding. My professional experience has given me many opportunities to apply these lessons. For more than ten years, I have worked with people from different backgrounds and circumstances and have seen how mental health can affect relationships, employment, family responsibilities, decision-making, and everyday life. One experience that has stayed with me involved a person who was extremely frustrated and did not want to participate in their care. Rather than immediately viewing the behavior as difficult, I took time to understand what was causing the frustration. I learned that the person felt overwhelmed and believed their concerns were not being taken seriously. Once those concerns were addressed, they became more willing to communicate and participate in their care. That experience taught me that effective behavioral healthcare requires more than responding to what is immediately visible. Understanding the circumstances behind a person's behavior can help create an opportunity for them to regain a sense of control and participate in their own care. It reinforced the importance of treating people with dignity while recognizing their individual needs. My mother's death also changed my understanding of grief. I learned that grief does not follow a schedule. Some days I can remember her and smile, while other days the loss is still painful. Her passing happened around Mother's Day, which makes that time of year especially difficult. I have learned that moving forward does not mean forgetting her. It means carrying her memory while continuing to build a future shaped by the lessons she left with me. These experiences have strengthened my desire to become a registered nurse. I want to combine my behavioral-health background with my nursing education to care for patients as whole people. My personal experience has shown me that physical and mental health are closely connected. Someone managing a medical condition may also be dealing with fear, anxiety, grief, stress, or uncertainty, all of which can affect how they understand and participate in their care. As a nurse, I want to educate patients about their conditions, help them understand treatment plans, advocate for their needs, and recognize when emotional well-being may affect their health. I want patients to feel respected without being defined by a diagnosis or a difficult period in their lives. My behavioral-health experience has prepared me to recognize emotional and behavioral needs, while my personal experiences have given me a deeper appreciation for how those needs can affect a person's daily life. I am particularly interested in caring for people with chronic illnesses because I understand that managing a diagnosis extends beyond the healthcare setting. Chronic illness can affect work, family, relationships, education, and independence. I want to help patients understand that their diagnosis is only one part of who they are and support them in maintaining the goals and responsibilities that matter to them. My experiences have also changed how I define personal growth. I once believed I had to manage everything on my own. I now understand the value of recognizing when I need support, adjusting my approach, and allowing others to be part of my journey. This has helped me become more self-aware and approach challenges with greater openness. I want to carry that perspective into my future and set an example for my family. Continuing my education after experiencing loss and managing my own challenges represents more than completing a degree. It reflects my commitment to building a future that is meaningful to me while showing my family that difficult experiences do not have to determine what comes next. My journey has given me a deeper understanding of the connection between mental and physical health and the many factors that influence a person's ability to manage both. My mother taught me the importance of family, my personal experiences deepened my understanding of emotional health, and my career taught me the responsibility that comes with caring for others. Becoming a registered nurse will allow me to bring these experiences together in a career centered on service. I want to provide care that is knowledgeable, compassionate, and respectful while helping patients feel informed and involved in their health. I cannot change what I have experienced, but I can use those experiences to shape how I care for others. I want to become a nurse who sees the person behind the diagnosis and helps patients feel capable of taking an active role in their health.

There are days when living with lupus and diabetes reminds me that my body can change the plans I have made for my life. Some days I wake up feeling like I can take on anything, while other days I have to slow down and listen to what my body is telling me. Living with chronic illness has taught me something I will never forget: you cannot always see what someone is fighting on the inside. That understanding is one of the reasons I am pursuing a career in nursing. My experiences with lupus and diabetes have given me a perspective that I believe will help me become a more compassionate nurse. I understand what it feels like to have questions about your health, worry about what symptoms mean, and manage the responsibilities that come with a chronic condition. I also understand how important it is for a healthcare professional to listen. Sometimes, having someone genuinely hear your concerns can make a difficult situation feel a little less frightening. As a future registered nurse, I want to use my experiences to help others who are living with chronic autoimmune and other long-term conditions. I want my patients to know that I see them as a person first, not simply as a diagnosis. Chronic illness can affect much more than the body. It can affect a person's emotions, family, work, finances, relationships, and confidence. I want to recognize those challenges and provide care that addresses the whole person. Education will be an important part of the care I provide. I want to help patients understand their medications, treatments, symptoms, warning signs, and the importance of follow-up care. I want to encourage them to ask questions and advocate for themselves when something does not feel right. My hope is that through education and support, patients will feel more confident managing their health instead of feeling like their illness controls their lives. My background in behavioral health has also taught me how important it is to listen without judgment. People living with chronic illnesses may become frustrated, tired, or discouraged, especially when others cannot see what they are experiencing. I want to be the nurse who takes the time to listen, offers encouragement, and reminds patients that their struggles are valid. My journey with lupus and diabetes has not been easy, but it has given me a deeper sense of purpose. Instead of allowing my diagnoses to define me, I want to use what I have learned to help others. Becoming a registered nurse will allow me to turn my experiences into compassion, advocacy, and action. I want to be the person sitting beside a patient who feels overwhelmed and remind them, “You are not alone.” I know what it means to keep moving forward even when your body makes that difficult. My goal is to help others do the same—with knowledge, dignity, compassion, and hope. Kimberly Gray

My name is Kimberly Gray, and May 4, 2022, is a date I will never forget. It is the day I lost my mother, the woman who gave me life, loved me. My mother was only 56 years old when she passed away after becoming septic while waiting for a liver transplant. Losing her changed my life forever, and there are still moments when I struggle to accept that she is gone. My mother was already fighting for her life. She was on the waiting list for a liver transplant, and our family held onto hope that she would receive the call that would give her another chance. We believed there would be more birthdays, holidays, conversations, and memories. Instead, sepsis took away the future we thought we had. Her death happened just days before Mother's Day. While families were preparing to celebrate their mothers, I was grieving mine. Mother's Day has never felt the same. What made her loss even more heartbreaking was that my daughter, my mother's second granddaughter, was scheduled to graduate just two weeks later. My mother should have been there to watch her granddaughter walk across the stage, smile with pride, and celebrate with our family. Instead, we experienced that special moment without her. Losing my mother taught me that sepsis does not only affect the person who becomes ill. It affects an entire family. It leaves an empty place at the table, missing voices during celebrations, and memories that you wish you could relive just one more time. Before losing my mother, I knew sepsis was serious, but I did not understand how quickly it could become life-threatening. Her death opened my eyes to the importance of recognizing changes in a person's condition and taking warning signs seriously. Although I cannot change what happened to my mother, I can allow her story to influence the kind of nurse I become. I am pursuing my dream of becoming a registered nurse. My journey has not always been easy, but I continue moving forward because my education represents more than a career. It represents an opportunity to serve others, advocate for patients, educate families, and make a difference during frightening moments. My mother's experience with sepsis has given my nursing journey an even deeper purpose. I want to be the nurse who pays attention when something does not seem right. I want to listen when a patient or family member says, "Something is wrong." I want to recognize warning signs, speak up, and advocate for patients who may not be able to advocate for themselves. There are days when I wish I could call my mother and tell her about my accomplishments. I wish she could see me continue my education and watch me reach my goal of becoming a registered nurse. Although I cannot share those moments with her, I carry her love and strength with me every step of the way. The Begin Again Scholarship would help me continue my education and move closer to becoming the nurse I have worked so hard to become. More importantly, it would help me turn a painful loss into something meaningful. I cannot change May 4, 2022, or give my mother back the years she deserved. But I can honor her by continuing forward. For me, beginning again does not mean leaving my mother behind. It means carrying her memory, love, and strength with me and turning my grief into purpose. I am determined to become the nurse I have dreamed of becoming and use my mother's story to make a difference in the lives of others.

My goals for my medical career are to continue growing as a healthcare professional and become a Registered Nurse. I have worked as a Medical Assistant in mental health for more than 10 years, and this experience has played an important role in shaping my career goals. Working in mental health has taught me the importance of compassion, patience, communication, and treating every patient with dignity and respect. It has also shown me how important it is for healthcare professionals to listen to their patients and understand their individual needs. My experience as a Medical Assistant has given me a strong foundation for my future career in nursing. Over the years, I have worked with patients who were experiencing different mental health challenges, and I have learned that healthcare involves much more than providing medical treatment. Patients also need someone who will listen to them, encourage them, and make them feel safe and respected. I want to take what I have learned throughout my career and use it to become a caring and dependable Registered Nurse. Becoming a Registered Nurse will allow me to expand my knowledge and skills and take on greater responsibility in patient care. I want to continue learning and developing my clinical abilities while also becoming a strong advocate for my patients. My background in mental health has taught me that physical and emotional health are connected. As a nurse, I hope to provide care that considers the whole person and not just a diagnosis. I want my patients to feel that they are being treated as individuals and that their concerns matter. I also believe that increasing racial diversity in healthcare is extremely important. Patients come from many different racial, cultural, and social backgrounds, and they deserve to feel understood and respected when receiving healthcare. A diverse healthcare workforce can help create stronger connections between patients and healthcare professionals. When patients see healthcare workers who understand or share aspects of their background, they may feel more comfortable communicating their concerns and asking questions. Racial diversity can also bring different perspectives and experiences into healthcare. Healthcare professionals from different backgrounds may have a better understanding of cultural traditions, beliefs, and experiences that can influence how patients view healthcare. Having a diverse workforce can help improve communication, build trust, and encourage healthcare providers to consider the individual needs of each patient. Another reason diversity is important is because many communities experience healthcare disparities and barriers to receiving quality care. Increasing the number of healthcare professionals from underrepresented racial backgrounds can help encourage more people to enter healthcare careers and serve their communities. Representation can also inspire younger generations to believe that careers in nursing, medicine, and other healthcare professions are possible for them. As I work toward becoming a Registered Nurse, I want to use my more than 10 years of experience as a Medical Assistant to make a positive difference in the lives of my patients. My goal is to provide compassionate, respectful, and high-quality care to everyone I serve. I also want to be an example to others who may be interested in pursuing a career in healthcare. Ultimately, I want my nursing career to be built on compassion, education, diversity, and advocacy. I am proud of the experience I have gained in mental health, and I look forward to continuing my education and reaching my goal of becoming a Registered Nurse. I believe that a more diverse healthcare workforce can help create a healthcare system where every patient feels valued, respected, heard, and cared for.

My decision to pursue a career in nursing has been shaped by my personal experiences, my professional background in mental health, and my desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. I have always believed that caring for people is more than providing treatment—it is about listening, understanding, advocating, and offering support during some of the most vulnerable moments in a person’s life. My journey in healthcare began when I completed a Medical Assistant program in 2010–2011. Shortly after completing my training, I began working in the mental health field at Excelth Behavioral Health, where I worked from 2011 to 2020. During my nine years there, I had the privilege of caring for individuals experiencing a variety of mental health challenges. This experience opened my eyes to the importance of compassionate healthcare and showed me how much of an impact a caring healthcare professional can have on a person’s life. Working in behavioral health taught me that every patient has a story. Many individuals living with mental illness often face challenges beyond their diagnosis, including stigma, isolation, and feeling misunderstood. I learned the importance of meeting patients where they are, listening without judgment, and treating every person with dignity and respect. These experiences strengthened my desire to continue my education and become a nurse who can provide both medical care and emotional support. In 2014, I enrolled in the nursing program at Baton Rouge Community College because I wanted to expand my knowledge and skills so I could serve patients at an even higher level. The nurses I worked alongside during my career inspired me with their dedication, compassion, and ability to advocate for their patients. They showed me that nursing is not only about clinical skills but also about building trust, providing comfort, and being a voice for those who may not always be able to speak for themselves. My passion for mental health is also deeply personal. Mental illness has affected my family and witnessing the challenges my loved ones faced gave me a greater understanding of how these conditions impact not only individuals but entire families. Those experiences shaped the way I approach caregiving. I understand the importance of supporting both patients and their loved ones with patience, empathy, and understanding. My personal connection to mental health continues to motivate me to help reduce stigma and promote awareness. Outside of nursing and healthcare, I find purpose and joy in spending time with my family and supporting the people I care about. Family has always been an important part of my life, and the relationships I have built have taught me the value of compassion, resilience, and unconditional support. Being present for my loved ones reminds me why I chose a career centered around caring for others. I am also passionate about personal growth and lifelong learning. Continuing my education has been an important goal because I believe there is always more to learn and ways to improve. Whether it is gaining new healthcare knowledge, developing new skills, or becoming a better advocate for patients, I find fulfillment in growing both personally and professionally. The qualities that guide me as a future nurse—compassion, perseverance, and dedication—are the same qualities that shape my life outside of healthcare. My experiences have taught me that every person deserves kindness and understanding, and I hope to bring that belief into every interaction I have with patients, families, and my community. Nursing is more than a career choice for me; it is a commitment to serving others. My background in behavioral health, my family’s experiences with mental illness, and the people who have inspired me along the way have all contributed to the nurse I hope to become. I look forward to continuing this journey and using my education, experience, and compassion to make a positive impact on the lives of others.

Mental illness has played a significant role in shaping both my personal life and my career. Having family members who have struggled with mental illness has given me a firsthand understanding of the challenges that individuals and families face every day. I have seen how mental illness can affect relationships, emotional well-being, and a family's ability to cope with everyday life. These experiences taught me the importance of compassion, patience, and access to quality mental healthcare. They also inspired me to dedicate my career to helping others who are facing similar challenges. My interest in healthcare led me to complete a Medical Assistant program in 2010–2011. Shortly after graduating, I began working at Excelth Behavioral Health, where I worked from 2011 to 2020. During those nine years, I gained valuable experience caring for individuals living with a wide range of mental health conditions. Working in behavioral health gave me the opportunity to support patients during some of the most difficult times in their lives while learning the importance of treating every individual with dignity and respect. Throughout my career, I worked alongside nurses, physicians, counselors, and social workers who were committed to improving the lives of their patients. Watching these professionals advocate for their patients inspired me to continue my education and pursue a nursing career. In 2014, I enrolled in the nursing program at Baton Rouge Community College because I wanted to build on my experience and develop the clinical skills needed to provide even greater care. My goal is to become a registered nurse who combines professional knowledge with compassion to improve the lives of individuals living with mental illness. Working in mental health taught me that listening can be just as important as providing medical treatment. Many of the individuals I cared for wanted someone who would listen without judgment and treat them with kindness. I learned that trust, patience, and empathy can make a meaningful difference in a person's recovery. These lessons continue to influence the way I interact with patients and strengthen my commitment to providing compassionate, patient-centered care. My family's experience with mental illness has also helped me understand the challenges faced by caregivers. Supporting a loved one through mental illness can be emotionally exhausting and overwhelming. I know how important it is for families to receive encouragement, education, and support throughout the recovery process. Because of these experiences, I strive to care not only for patients but also for the families who stand beside them. Although balancing school, work, and personal responsibilities has been challenging, I have remained committed to my goal of becoming a nurse. My years of experience in behavioral health have prepared me to communicate effectively, remain calm under pressure, and advocate for patients who may feel unheard. Receiving this scholarship would help me continue my education and move closer to achieving my goal of providing compassionate, evidence-based care to individuals living with mental illness. I am committed to using both my personal experiences and my professional background to make a positive difference in the lives of patients and families while helping reduce the stigma surrounding mental health.