Becoming a teen mom changed the direction of my life in ways I never expected. While many people experience their teenage years focused on themselves, I had to grow up quickly and learn how to care for someone else while still trying to figure out who I was. After my mother passed away, the little support system I had disappeared. I was left to navigate motherhood, grief, and adulthood all at once. Trying to continue my education during that time was incredibly difficult. There were moments when I had to stop going to school just to survive and provide stability for my child. My educational journey has not been a straight path. It has been filled with pauses, setbacks, and restarts. At times, it felt like I was falling behind, watching others move forward while I struggled to keep up. But looking back, those challenges built a level of resilience in me that I would not trade for anything. Every time I had to step away from school, I made the decision to come back. That persistence is something I carry with me today, and it continues to push me forward even when things feel overwhelming. Being a teen mom also gave me a deeper sense of purpose. I am not just pursuing an education for myself—I am doing it for my child. I want to create a stable, secure future and show them that no matter how difficult life becomes, it is always possible to keep going. My experiences have taught me time management, responsibility, and sacrifice in a way that no classroom ever could. These lessons have shaped how I approach my education now, with more focus, determination, and clarity about my goals. My decision to pursue a career in nursing comes from both personal experience and a genuine desire to care for others. When I was younger, I spent time in a burn unit due to an injury to my face. I still remember the nurses who cared for me during that time. They were not only skilled, but compassionate—they made me feel safe during one of the most vulnerable moments of my life. That experience stayed with me. As I got older and faced my own struggles, I realized I wanted to be that person for someone else. Nursing, to me, is more than a career—it is a way to turn my experiences into something meaningful. I understand what it feels like to be overwhelmed, unsupported, and uncertain about the future. Because of that, I bring empathy and understanding that cannot be taught. I want to provide not only medical care, but comfort, reassurance, and dignity to every patient I encounter. My journey has not been easy, but it has given me strength, perspective, and purpose. Being a teen mom did not stop my education—it reshaped it. It made me more determined, more focused, and more committed to building a better future. As I continue pursuing nursing, I carry my past with me not as a burden, but as a reminder of how far I have come and the impact I hope to make in the lives of others.

I’ve seen firsthand how much it matters to be treated like a person, not just a patient. That’s what led me to nursing. It’s not just about a career, it’s personal. I’ve seen the difference between being treated like a task and being treated with care and dignity, and that stays with you. I know I want to be someone who makes that experience better. Working with individuals with special needs has had a huge impact on me. It showed me how vulnerable some people are in healthcare settings, and how easily they can be overlooked or not taken seriously. It also showed me how much patience and understanding really matter. One moment in particular stuck with me. I was caring for someone who had difficulty communicating, and I could tell something wasn’t right. It would have been easy to miss, but I slowed down and paid attention to their behavior instead of brushing it off. Later, it turned out they were in pain but couldn’t express it clearly. That moment stayed with me because it reminded me how important it is to really see people and not rely only on what’s said out loud. It reinforced the kind of nurse I want to be. I want to be someone who listens, even when it takes extra effort. My values play a big role in this path. I believe in showing up for people, treating everyone with respect, and staying patient even in difficult moments. Life has also taught me resilience. As a mother, I’ve spent years putting my kids first and making sure they had what they needed. Now that they’re almost grown—one graduating this year—I’m finally focusing on my own goals too. Going back to school hasn’t been easy, but it’s something I’m proud of. I want my kids to see that it’s never too late to go after what you’ve always wanted. I’ve also learned a lot just by observing care. You can tell the difference between nurses who are just doing their job and the ones who truly connect with patients. The ones who take a moment to explain things or speak with kindness are the ones people remember. That’s the kind of nurse I want to be. I may not perfect, but I'll be present. Outside of nursing, my family is what keeps me grounded. The simple moments like talking, laughing, just being together, mean the most to me. I’m also learning to value quiet time, whether it’s listening to music or just taking a moment to reset. Those small breaks help me stay balanced, especially while juggling school and life. At the end of the day, what drives me is knowing I can make a difference, even in small ways. Sometimes it’s just being there for someone or making them feel heard. That’s what gives me purpose. I’m not just working toward a degree. I’m building a future that reflects who I am and the kind of care I believe in. Someone who leads with compassion, stands up for others, and never loses sight of the human side of healthcare.

My path into nursing hasn’t been a straight line, but it feels like everything in my life has been pointing me here all along. I’ve always known I wanted to care for people, but it wasn’t until I got older, raised my children, and experienced life a little more deeply that I understood what that really meant. Now that my kids are almost grown—with one graduating and leaving for college this year—I finally have the space to fully invest in myself and the career I’ve carried in my heart for years. Being laid off was honestly scary, but it also became the push I needed. Instead of seeing it as a setback, I chose to see it as an opportunity. I went back to school, completed the last of my prerequisites (paying for it out of pocket), and was accepted into the Associate Degree Nursing (RN) program. That moment felt like confirmation that I’m exactly where I’m supposed to be. My decision to pursue nursing is deeply personal. I’ve worked with individuals with special needs, and I’ve seen firsthand how vulnerable patients can be—especially when they aren’t always treated with the patience, dignity, or compassion they deserve. That stayed with me. I want to be the kind of nurse who truly sees people, who listens, who advocates, and who makes patients feel safe and respected no matter their situation. Nursing, to me, isn’t just a career—it’s a responsibility to show up for people on some of the hardest days of their lives. My long-term goal is not only to become a registered nurse but eventually to move into nursing education. I want to help train future nurses to lead with both skill and empathy, especially when working with underserved or misunderstood populations. I’m open to continuing my education further down the line as I grow in my career, knowing that each step forward will allow me to expand my impact in healthcare and give back in a bigger way. In the short term, my focus is on successfully completing the RN program, passing the NCLEX, and gaining hands-on experience in patient care. Each step is intentional, helping me build a strong foundation so I can confidently care for others and grow into the nurse I know I’m capable of becoming. Receiving this scholarship would make a life-changing difference for me. Being unemployed has made finances a real concern, and the cost of nursing school: tuition, books, and supplies, adds up quickly. This support would allow me to focus more on my studies and clinical training without the constant stress of how I’m going to afford everything. It would also ease the pressure of balancing responsibilities at home while trying to succeed academically. More than anything, this scholarship would be an investment in someone who is fully committed—not just to finishing school, but to making a meaningful impact in healthcare. I’m not taking this opportunity lightly. I’m building a future not just for myself, but for the people I will care for and the students I hope to inspire one day.

Going back to school at this stage in my life wasn’t part of some perfect, step-by-step plan—it came from real life happening. Being a single mom for most of my adult life meant my focus was always on making sure my kids were okay first. Now that they’re older—one about to graduate high school and the others grown—I finally have the space to focus on something I’ve always wanted for myself: becoming a nurse. Getting laid off recently was a turning point for me. At first, it was scary, but it also felt like a push in a new direction. Instead of seeing it as a setback, I chose to see it as an opportunity. I went back to school, completed my prerequisites (paying for some out of pocket), and got accepted into an associate degree nursing program. That experience reminded me that I’m capable of more than I sometimes give myself credit for, and that it’s never too late to start over or go after what you really want. My life experiences have shaped my values in a big way. I’ve learned the importance of patience, compassion, and treating people with dignity—especially from working with individuals with special needs. I’ve seen firsthand how they can sometimes be overlooked or mistreated in healthcare settings, and that stuck with me. It made me realize what kind of nurse I want to be: someone who listens, advocates, and makes sure every patient feels seen and respected. I’m also driven by the example I want to set for my children. I want them to see that hard times don’t define you—you can rebuild, grow, and still reach your goals no matter where you start. Going back to school isn’t just about me; it’s about showing them what perseverance looks like. Once I become a nurse, I plan to give back to my community by providing compassionate, patient-centered care and being an advocate for those who may not always have a voice. I want to work with diverse populations, including individuals with special needs, and help create a healthcare experience where people feel safe and understood. Even small things—like taking the time to really listen—can make a big difference in someone’s life. This scholarship would make a huge difference for me. Being unemployed has made it challenging to cover tuition, books, and everyday expenses. Receiving this support would relieve some of that financial stress and allow me to stay focused on my education and clinical training without constantly worrying about how I’m going to pay for everything. More importantly, it would help me stay on track to reach my goal of becoming a nurse and giving back to others in a meaningful way. At this point in my life, going to school isn’t just about a degree—it’s about purpose, growth, and making a real impact. I’m ready for that, and I’m committed to seeing it through.

From as early as I can remember, I’ve wanted to be a nurse. Not because it sounded impressive, but because I’ve always felt pulled toward taking care of people when they’re going through hard times. Over the years, that feeling has only gotten stronger, especially after seeing how often people can feel overlooked or unheard in healthcare when they don’t have someone speaking up for them. When I think about how I want to “Be More” in nursing, it’s not just about finishing school or getting a license. It’s about becoming the kind of nurse I would want for my own family. I’ve worked with individuals with special needs, and that really opened my eyes. I’ve seen how easily they can be misunderstood or not treated the way they should be in healthcare settings. That really stuck with me. I want to be the nurse who takes the extra minute, who listens, and who makes sure every patient is treated with respect and dignity—especially the ones who are often brushed aside. I also want to help patients feel less overwhelmed. Healthcare can be scary and confusing, especially when people are already sick or stressed. I want to be the person who helps explain things in a simple way, who reassures them, and who makes them feel like they’re not going through it alone. I don’t just want to treat symptoms—I want people to feel seen and supported as a whole person. On a personal level, I also want to be an example for others who feel like it’s “too late” to start over. I went back to school after being laid off, and I’ve had to work hard to get here. I know what it feels like to rebuild and push forward when life doesn’t go as planned. I want others in similar situations to know they can still chase something meaningful, no matter where they are starting from. At the end of the day, I just want to “Be More” by showing up with compassion, patience, and heart. If I can make even one patient feel a little more comfortable, a little more understood, or a little less afraid, then I’ll know I’m doing exactly what I’m meant to do.

My journey so far has been a mix of starting over, pushing through uncertainty, and learning that it’s never too late to change direction. I’m currently in a season of life where I’ve returned to school after being laid off from my job. At first, that moment felt overwhelming, like everything had been interrupted. But looking back, it actually became the push I needed to finally go after something I had been thinking about for years—becoming a nurse. As a single parent, my children are all almost grown now. One is a senior graduating this year, which is both exciting and emotional. Even though they’re becoming more independent, I still feel that strong responsibility to support them as they transition into adulthood while also rebuilding my own path. Going back to school hasn’t been easy. I’ve had to manage finances carefully, pay for some of my prerequisite courses out of pocket, and adjust to being a student again after years of focusing on work and family. There are days when it feels exhausting trying to juggle everything, especially without the financial stability I once had. But even in the hard moments, I remind myself why I started. One of the biggest challenges has been uncertainty—financially and emotionally. Being laid off forced me into a situation I didn’t fully plan for, and there were times I questioned whether I was making the right decision by going back to school. But every completed class and every acceptance letter into the Associate Degree Nursing (RN) program reminded me that I am capable of rebuilding. I’ve learned to be more disciplined with my time, more intentional with my goals, and more patient with myself. What has been most fulfilling is realizing that I am actually doing it. I finished my prerequisites. I got accepted into nursing school. Those milestones may seem small to some, but to me they represent resilience. I also find fulfillment in knowing that my path is leading me toward a career where I can make a real difference in people’s lives. I’ve always felt drawn to caring for others, especially individuals who are often overlooked or misunderstood in healthcare settings. Working with people with special needs has shown me how important patience, dignity, and respect are in care—and how easily those things can be missing. Through further education, I hope to not only build a stable career as a nurse but also create a stronger foundation for my family. I want to move from uncertainty into stability, from survival into security. More than that, I want my journey to show my children that it’s okay to restart, to grow, and to chase something meaningful no matter where you are in life. I also hope to become the kind of nurse who makes patients feel seen, respected, and cared for—especially those who are vulnerable or often mistreated in healthcare settings. This journey hasn’t been easy, but it has been worth it. And I’m just getting started.

I’ve wanted to be a nurse for as long as I can remember. Even when I was younger, I was the person who naturally cared about others and wanted to help when someone wasn’t feeling well or needed support. That feeling never really went away—it just grew stronger over time. Life didn’t take me in a straight line to get here, but I’ve finally reached a point where I’m fully pursuing that dream. Recently, I was laid off from my job, and at first it felt frustrating and uncertain. But looking back, it ended up being the push I needed to finally go after what I’ve always wanted. Instead of just moving into another job, I decided to go back to school and focus on nursing. Since then, I’ve completed all of my prerequisite courses, even paying for some out of pocket, and I was really proud when I got accepted into an Associate Degree Nursing (RN) program. It honestly felt like things were finally lining up the way they were supposed to. One of the biggest reasons I want to become a nurse comes from my experience working with individuals with special needs. I’ve seen how easily people can be misunderstood or not treated with the patience and respect they deserve in healthcare settings. Those moments really stuck with me. They made me want to be the kind of nurse who slows down, actually listens, and treats every person like they matter—because they do. I’ve also seen how overwhelming the healthcare system can be for patients and families. When people are scared or confused, a kind voice or a little extra time to explain things can make a huge difference. That’s the kind of nurse I want to be—the one who helps people feel calmer instead of more stressed, and who makes them feel like they’re not alone in what they’re going through. For me, going to school for nursing isn’t just about starting a new career. It feels more like finally stepping into something I’ve always been meant to do. I know it’s going to take hard work and dedication, but I’m ready for that because I care deeply about what comes after it. In my career, I want to make a positive impact by simply being the kind of nurse I would want for my own family—someone patient, caring, and genuinely present. I may not be able to change everything in healthcare, but I do believe I can make a difference in the way people feel when they’re under my care. And that matters to me more than anything.

What inspired me to pursue a career in nursing really comes from a mix of personal experiences and things I’ve seen over the years. Honestly, it’s something that’s been on my heart for a long time, but life didn’t always line up for me to go after it right away. Now that I’ve had the chance to step back and refocus, I know this is exactly what I’m meant to do. One of the biggest reasons I chose nursing is because of my experience working with people who have special needs. Being around them opened my eyes to how vulnerable some patients can be. I’ve seen moments where they weren’t treated with the patience or respect they deserved, and that stuck with me. It made me realize how important it is to have nurses who truly care and take the time to understand their patients. I want to be someone who shows kindness, speaks up when something isn’t right, and makes sure every patient feels seen and valued. I’ve also been influenced by personal situations involving people close to me dealing with serious health issues. Watching someone you care about go through that is hard, but it also shows you how much of a difference a good nurse can make. It’s not just about giving medication or following orders—it’s about being there, listening, and bringing comfort when someone is scared or hurting. Those moments really stayed with me and made me want to be that kind of support for others. Another big part of my journey has been going through challenges in my own life. After being laid off, I had to really think about what I wanted for my future. Instead of letting that situation hold me back, I decided to go back to school and finally pursue nursing. I worked hard to complete my prerequisites, even paying for some out of pocket, and getting accepted into the RN program was a huge moment for me. It showed me that even though the path wasn’t straight, I didn’t give up on myself. At this point in my life, this isn’t just about a career—it’s about purpose. I want stability, but more than that, I want to do something meaningful every day. Nursing gives me the opportunity to help people during some of the most difficult times in their lives and to make a real impact, even in small ways. Overall, what inspired me to pursue nursing is the combination of my life experiences, the people I’ve encountered, and the desire to be someone who makes a difference. I want to be a nurse who leads with compassion, stands up for patients, and never forgets how important it is to treat people with dignity and care.

The nursing field interests me because it gives me the chance to make a real difference in people’s lives during some of their most vulnerable moments. I’ve always been drawn to helping others, and nursing feels like the perfect way to turn that into a meaningful, stable career. It’s not just about medical care—it’s about compassion, patience, and being there for someone when they need support the most. I also appreciate that nursing offers so many different paths and specialties, which means I’ll have the opportunity to grow and find where I truly belong in the field. My goal is to become a registered nurse and build a career where I am not only skilled clinically but also known for treating patients with respect and kindness. I want to be the kind of nurse who listens, advocates, and makes patients feel seen and cared for. Long term, I hope to continue learning, possibly specialize once I gain experience, and create a stable life for myself while giving back to my community through healthcare. Even though I am still early in my journey, I’ve already taken important steps toward these goals. After being laid off from my job, I made the decision to go back to school instead of giving up. I completed all of my prerequisite courses, paying for some out of pocket, which was not easy financially or emotionally. Being accepted into an Associate Degree Nursing (RN) program is one of my biggest accomplishments so far because it shows that my hard work and determination are paying off. Going back to school at this stage in my life has also proven to me that I’m capable of pushing through challenges and staying committed to my goals. Another major influence on my decision to pursue nursing has been my experience working with individuals with special needs. Through that experience, I’ve seen how vulnerable some patients can be and how, unfortunately, they are not always treated with the dignity and patience they deserve in healthcare settings. Witnessing that has had a lasting impact on me. It made me realize how important it is to have nurses who are not only clinically competent but also compassionate, attentive, and willing to advocate for every patient—especially those who may not be able to fully advocate for themselves. I want to be the kind of nurse who helps change that experience for the better. While I don’t have formal medical work experience yet, I have gained valuable perspective through real-life situations. I have supported friends and loved ones through serious health issues, which gave me a firsthand look at the impact nurses have on patients and families. Those experiences showed me how important compassion, clear communication, and attention to detail are in healthcare. They also reinforced my desire to be in a position where I can provide that same level of care and support to others. Overall, choosing nursing is about more than just a career for me—it’s about purpose, stability, and the opportunity to make a lasting difference. Everything I’ve accomplished so far has been building toward that goal, and I’m committed to continuing the journey no matter what challenges come my way.

I believe I should be chosen for this scholarship because I am fully committed to building a better future for myself and using that future to help others. Being laid off was not something I expected, but instead of letting it set me back, I used it as an opportunity to finally pursue what I have always wanted—a career in nursing. I went back to school, completed my prerequisites, and was accepted into an associate degree nursing (RN) program. This path has not been easy, but it has shown my determination, resilience, and willingness to keep moving forward even when life becomes uncertain. Right now, my financial need is significant. Losing my job has made it difficult to cover everyday expenses, let alone tuition, books, and other school-related costs. I have already paid for some of my classes out of pocket, which has put a strain on my savings. Without a steady income, I am constantly balancing how to afford school while also taking care of my responsibilities. This scholarship would relieve a large part of that burden and allow me to focus more on my education instead of worrying about how I am going to pay for it. It would give me the stability I need to succeed in the program and complete my degree. Once I am established in my nursing career, I plan to give back in meaningful ways. Nursing is more than just a job to me—it is a way to make a real difference in people’s lives during some of their most vulnerable moments. I want to provide compassionate, patient-centered care and be someone people can trust and feel comfortable with. I also hope to support individuals and families who may be struggling, whether that is through education, emotional support, or simply taking the time to truly listen. In addition, I want to be an example for others who may feel like it is too late to go back to school or start over. My journey shows that even after setbacks like job loss, it is still possible to pursue your goals. I hope to encourage others in my community to keep pushing forward, no matter their circumstances. Receiving this scholarship would not only help me financially, but it would also be an investment in someone who is dedicated to helping others. I am determined to complete my education, build a meaningful career, and use my experiences to uplift and support those around me.

Being a single parent has played a major role in shaping my academic journey. Raising my children into young adulthood meant that for many years, my focus was on supporting them, making sure they had what they needed, and putting their goals ahead of my own. Now that they are young adults, I finally have the space and opportunity to focus on my own future and return to school. I was recently laid off from my job, and while that was a difficult experience, it became a turning point for me. Instead of seeing it as a setback, I chose to use it as a chance to go back to school and pursue something I’ve wanted for a long time—becoming a nurse. During that time, I completed the rest of my prerequisite courses for nursing school. I paid for some of them out of pocket, which required sacrifice and careful budgeting, but I stayed committed because I knew I was working toward a long-term goal. All of that effort led to my acceptance into an Associate Degree Nursing (RN) program, which was a major accomplishment for me. It represented persistence, discipline, and the decision to invest in myself after years of focusing on my family. I am currently pursuing my Associate Degree in Nursing with the goal of becoming a Registered Nurse. I chose this path because I want a stable, meaningful career where I can care for others and make a positive impact. Nursing has always been a personal goal of mine, and I’m excited to finally be on this path. This journey represents both a new beginning for me and a long-awaited opportunity to build the future I’ve worked toward.

Going back to school to become a nurse is something I’ve thought about for a long time, and now that I’m actually doing it, it feels both exciting and overwhelming at the same time. This scholarship means a lot to me because it connects directly to people like Margaret A. Briller—someone who represents care, dedication, and helping others. Those are the same values I try to live by, especially now as I work toward becoming a nurse. I didn’t take the traditional straight path into higher education. I’m a single mom, and for years my focus was on raising my children and making sure they had what they needed. A lot of my goals had to wait while I handled responsibilities at home and worked to keep things stable. Now that my kids are older, I finally have the chance to go back to school and focus on something I’ve always wanted for myself: becoming a nurse. It feels like I’m starting a new chapter, but it also comes with real challenges—especially financial ones. Paying for school has been one of the hardest parts of this journey. Tuition, books, supplies, and everyday living costs add up quickly. Even when I’m doing everything I can to manage it, there are still moments where it feels like a lot. I’ve had to be very careful with budgeting and sometimes make tough choices just to keep things moving forward. That’s why this scholarship would make such a difference. It would take some of that pressure off and allow me to focus more on my classes and clinical work instead of constantly worrying about how I’m going to cover the next expense. My motivation to become a nurse really grew from personal experience. My best friend was diagnosed with colorectal cancer, and watching her go through that changed the way I see healthcare. I saw how much she depended on the nurses around her—not just for medical care, but for comfort, patience, and understanding. Those moments stuck with me. I realized I want to be that kind of support for someone else one day. Someone who shows up, listens, and treats people with dignity when they’re going through some of the hardest moments of their lives. I’m not completely sure what specialty I’ll end up in yet, but I know I want to work with patients in a way that lets me build real connections and make them feel seen and cared for. Whether that’s in a hospital, clinic, or another setting, I want my presence to matter. I want to be the kind of nurse who doesn’t rush through people, who takes time to explain things, and who helps patients feel a little less scared and a little more supported. Receiving this scholarship would help me stay on track with school and move closer to that goal. Right now, every semester feels like a balancing act between finances, family, and coursework. Anything that eases that burden makes a big difference. It would also help me avoid having to take on extra work hours, which can take away from the time I need to study and prepare for clinicals. This journey hasn’t been easy, but I’ve learned a lot from the challenges I’ve faced. Being a single mom and going back to school later in life has taught me patience, responsibility, and how to keep going even when things feel difficult. It’s not always perfect, but I’ve learned how to push through and stay focused on the bigger goal. In the end, I want my nursing degree to be more than just a career. I want it to be a way for me to give back, to help people in real moments of need, and to show my children and others that it’s never too late to go after something meaningful. This scholarship would help me get there, and I would truly appreciate the support as I continue this journey.

Returning back to school as an adult has been both a rewarding and challenging experience. One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced is learning how to balance school with all of my other responsibilities. I am not just a student—I am also a parent and someone who has already spent years focusing on taking care of others before myself. Because of that, my time is very limited. I often have to complete assignments late at night or early in the morning after everyone else is taken care of. There are days when I am mentally and physically exhausted, but I’ve had to learn how to stay disciplined and keep pushing forward even when I don’t feel like I have much left in me. Another major challenge has been financial pressure. Going back to school as an adult is not just about paying for tuition. It also includes managing everyday living expenses such as bills, groceries, and transportation while still trying to make education a priority. At times, it has felt overwhelming trying to make everything fit within a limited budget. There have been moments when I’ve had to carefully decide what I can afford and what has to wait. Despite this, I’ve learned how to be more resourceful by looking for scholarships, financial aid opportunities, and other ways to reduce the burden. This experience has taught me not to be afraid to ask for help when I need it. Self-doubt has also been something I’ve had to overcome. After being away from school for some time, it can be intimidating to return to an academic setting, especially when you see younger students who seem more confident or less burdened with responsibilities. There were moments when I questioned whether I still belonged in school or whether I could handle the workload. However, I’ve learned to shift my mindset and remind myself that my path is different, not impossible. I bring life experience, maturity, and motivation that comes from knowing exactly why I am here and what I am working toward. Despite these challenges, what keeps me going is my long-term goal of becoming a nurse. Nursing has always been my dream, and returning to school is my way of finally pursuing something I have wanted for a long time. My experiences as a single mother raising young adults have also strengthened my resilience and patience. I’ve learned how to keep going even when things are difficult and how to stay focused on the bigger picture instead of temporary struggles. Overall, returning to school has not been easy, but it has been one of the most meaningful decisions I’ve made. It has shown me my own strength, determination, and ability to grow, even in the face of challenges.

Going to college, to me, represents more than earning a degree. It represents growth, responsibility, and finally investing in myself after years of focusing on everyone else. As a single mother, my life has been centered around raising my children, working hard, and making sure they had stability and support. There were many times when my own goals had to be put on hold, not because they didn’t matter, but because my family needed me more. Now, returning to school feels like I am stepping into a new chapter where I can build something meaningful for both my future and my children’s example of perseverance. College also means opportunity and change. I am not just trying to improve my income or career options—I am trying to change the direction of my life in a way that aligns with who I have become through my experiences. Nursing has always been a dream of mine, but it became more personal after witnessing the impact of illness on people I love. When my best friend was diagnosed with colorectal cancer, I saw firsthand how overwhelming and frightening the medical system can be. What stood out to me the most were the nurses who showed patience, compassion, and respect during some of her hardest moments. They didn’t just treat the illness—they cared for the person. That experience stayed with me and helped confirm that I want to be that kind of support for others. In addition, I have experienced mental health challenges within my own family, including my daughter. Watching her struggle has deepened my understanding of how important it is for patients to feel heard and supported, not rushed or dismissed. It taught me that care is not only about treatment, but also about empathy, communication, and consistency. These experiences have shaped the kind of nurse I want to become—someone who can meet patients where they are and help them feel less alone in difficult situations. Through college, I am trying to accomplish stability, purpose, and impact. Stability, so I can provide a better future for my family. Purpose, because I want to do work that genuinely matters to me. And impact, because I want to contribute to people’s lives in a meaningful way through healthcare. I want my children to see that it is never too late to pursue a dream and that perseverance can lead to real change. For me, college is not just education—it is transformation, healing, and the beginning of the life I have been working toward for years.

Choosing to pursue nursing has been a long time coming for me—it’s not something I woke up one day and decided, it’s something life kept placing in front of me until I finally listened. Caring for others has always been part of who I am, whether that showed up in raising my children, supporting people in my community, or being the one others lean on during difficult moments. Nursing feels like the natural extension of that—turning something I already do with my heart into something I can do with skill, knowledge, and purpose. A major turning point for me was when my best friend, Frieda, was diagnosed with colorectal cancer and had to undergo surgery that resulted in a colostomy. That experience changed how I saw healthcare. It wasn’t just about treatment—it was about dignity, comfort, and helping someone adjust to a completely new way of living. She used to call me “her nurse” because I was always there, helping her manage her colostomy bag, learning alongside her, and making sure she never felt alone or embarrassed. What stood out to me most during that time was how vulnerable she felt, and how much of a difference it made to have someone who approached her care with patience, compassion, and normalcy. That experience opened my eyes to the importance of specialized, empathetic care—especially for patients dealing with conditions that can feel isolating or stigmatized. While I haven’t fully decided on a specialty yet, I know I’m drawn to areas where I can support patients through life-altering diagnoses and help them regain confidence in themselves. I am especially interested in working with adult patients who are navigating chronic illness or major surgical changes, because I’ve seen firsthand how much emotional and practical support they need beyond just medical treatment. At this stage in my life, going into nursing isn’t just about a career—it’s about purpose. I’ve spent years showing up for others in meaningful ways, and now I want to build on that with formal training so I can make an even greater impact. No matter what specialty I ultimately choose, I know I want to be the kind of nurse who makes people feel seen, supported, and cared for during some of the hardest moments of their lives.

My decision to pursue nursing didn’t come from just one moment—it’s something that’s been part of me for a long time. Being a nurse has always been my dream, even if life didn’t allow me to follow that path right away. I spent years raising my kids and putting my focus into being a mother first. Now that they’re older, I’m finally in a place where I can pour into myself and go after what I’ve always wanted. Going back to school at this stage in my life means more to me than just earning a degree. It represents growth, determination, and the belief that it’s never too late to start over or chase something meaningful. I want to show my children—and myself—that it’s okay to take a different path and still reach your goals. What draws me to nursing is the opportunity to truly make a difference in people’s lives in a hands-on, everyday way. I’ve always been someone others come to for support, whether that’s helping, listening, or just being present when it matters. Nursing feels like a natural extension of who I already am. It allows me to turn those instincts into a career where I can care for people during some of their most vulnerable moments. I’ve also been inspired by the healthcare workers I’ve encountered over the years—the ones who take the time to explain things, who treat patients with dignity, and who go the extra mile to make someone feel comfortable. Those moments stick with you. They showed me that being a nurse isn’t just about medical knowledge, it’s about how you make people feel. At this point in my life, I’m pursuing nursing with intention and purpose. I bring real-life experience, patience, and resilience that will help me connect with patients on a deeper level. I understand responsibility, time management, and what it means to show up for others consistently—because I’ve been doing that for years as a mother. What inspires me most is the chance to build a career that reflects who I am at my core: someone who cares, someone who shows up, and someone who wants to make a positive impact. Nursing gives me the opportunity to do that every single day, and that’s what keeps me motivated to keep going. I learned about this scholarship from someone who knew I was facing financial challenges and shared a list of scholarship websites for me to explore.

If you asked me a few years ago what my path would look like, I probably wouldn’t have had a clear answer. Life has a way of shifting things, especially when you’re raising children, working, and trying to hold everything together at the same time. As a single mom, my focus was always on making sure my kids were okay—emotionally, physically, and mentally. Now that they’re young adults, I’ve finally allowed myself to come back to a dream I’ve carried for a long time: becoming a nurse. My interest in the medical field isn’t just about a career—it’s personal. I’ve worked with people dealing with mental health challenges, and more recently, I’ve experienced it up close through my own daughter. Watching someone you love struggle in ways you can’t fix overnight changes you. It makes you more patient, more aware, and more compassionate. It also showed me how important it is to have healthcare professionals who truly see their patients as people, not just cases or diagnoses. That’s the kind of nurse I want to be. Through those experiences, I’ve learned that healing isn’t just physical. People need to feel heard, respected, and safe. I want to be someone who can provide that kind of care—someone who can sit with a patient in a hard moment, advocate for them when they feel overlooked, and bring a sense of calm into situations that feel overwhelming. Whether it’s in mental health, general care, or wherever I’m needed most, my goal is to make people feel like they matter. Going back to school at this stage in my life isn’t always easy. There are moments of doubt, moments where I question if I’m too late or if I can really balance everything. But what keeps me going is knowing why I started. My kids inspire me every day. I want them to see that it’s never too late to chase something meaningful, that growth doesn’t have an expiration date. I also think about the people I’ve encountered—the ones who needed help, understanding, or just someone to care a little more. That’s what pushes me forward. I don’t expect to change the whole world overnight, but I do believe impact happens in small, consistent ways. It’s in how you treat people, how you show up, and how you care when it matters most. Through my medical career, I plan to make a positive impact by being present, by listening, and by bringing both strength and empathy into every space I enter. That’s the kind of difference I want to make—and that’s what keeps me going every single day.

Mental health has shaped the way I see my goals, my relationships, and the world around me in a very real and personal way. It’s not something I only understand from a distance or from books—it’s something I’ve lived alongside, both through my work and through my own family. I’ve worked with people who struggle with different mental health challenges, and that experience changed me. At first, I thought my role was simply to help or support them through difficult moments. But over time, I learned it’s much deeper than that. Mental health isn’t always visible, and it doesn’t always look the same from person to person. I’ve sat with people who were overwhelmed, shut down, angry, or completely withdrawn, and I’ve had to learn patience, empathy, and how to really listen without judgment. That work taught me that healing is not a straight line, and sometimes just showing up consistently for someone can mean more than anything else. But my understanding became even more personal when my daughter began struggling with her own mental health. Watching your child go through something you can’t simply “fix” is one of the hardest things I’ve ever experienced. It shifted everything for me. Suddenly, mental health wasn’t just part of my job—it was part of my everyday life, my worries, and my heart. It’s made me more aware of how important it is to really see people, especially when they’re struggling silently. I’ve learned to be more patient, not just with others but with myself too. There are days when things feel heavy, confusing, or uncertain, but I’ve also learned how important it is to keep showing up anyway—for my daughter, for the people I care about, and for myself. This experience has also shaped my goals. It has made me even more committed to helping others in a deeper way, not just professionally, but with real understanding and compassion. It’s part of why I continue to pursue growth in the healthcare field, because I want to be someone who can support others in their most vulnerable moments while also understanding what it feels like to be on the other side. Overall, mental health has taught me that strength doesn’t always look like having everything together. Sometimes it looks like getting through the day, asking for help, or simply not giving up on someone you love.

There was a time in my life when service stopped being something I just thought about and became something I actually lived out. As a single mom raising my kids, I’ve learned what it feels like to carry a lot on your shoulders and still try to show up for others. So when I met a young mother in my neighborhood who had just had a baby and was clearly struggling, it really stayed with me. She didn’t have much support, and you could tell she was overwhelmed, tired, and just trying to get through each day. I saw a lot of myself in her, and I couldn’t ignore that. What pushed me to take action was simple—I knew what it felt like to need help and not always have it come right away. So I started helping her in small ways. I brought over food when I cooked extra, picked up baby supplies when I could afford them, and checked on her regularly just to make sure she was okay. Sometimes I didn’t have anything material to give, but I made time to sit with her, talk with her, and let her know she wasn’t alone. A lot of the time, that emotional support mattered just as much as anything else. It wasn’t always easy though. I was already managing my own responsibilities as a mom, and there were days when I felt stretched thin and exhausted. I questioned myself at times—wondering if I was doing too much or if I needed to pull back. But every time I saw how much even a small act helped her breathe a little easier, I felt like I needed to keep going in whatever way I could. Over time, I started noticing changes in her. She seemed more confident, less overwhelmed, and more able to handle things step by step instead of everything all at once. Seeing that growth made every sacrifice worth it. That experience really changed how I understand service. I used to think service meant doing something big or having extra resources to give. But I learned it’s really about showing up for people in whatever way you can, even when it’s not convenient or easy. Small acts can have a bigger impact than we realize. It also changed how I see leadership. I used to think leadership was about being in charge, but I’ve come to understand it’s really about consistency, compassion, and being willing to step in when someone needs support. Sometimes leadership looks like simply being present for someone who is struggling and helping them feel seen and supported. It also strengthened my faith in a real way. There were moments I felt tired or unsure, but I kept feeling like I was placed in her life for a reason. That experience reminded me that faith isn’t always loud or dramatic—it’s often shown through quiet actions, showing up, and trusting that what you’re doing matters even when it feels small. That time in my life stayed with me. It’s part of why I want to become a nurse. I want to continue serving people in meaningful ways, especially when they feel overwhelmed or alone, and be someone who brings both care and comfort when it’s needed most.

Going to college isn’t just about getting a degree for me—it’s about finally doing something for myself. As a single mom, I spent years raising my kids and making sure they had everything they needed. They are now young adults, and while I’m proud of the role I played in getting them here, I’m at a point in my life where I can focus on my own goals. Going back to school at my age isn’t just a decision—it’s something I’m doing for me. Becoming a nurse has always been my dream. Life didn’t take me on a straight path to get here, but that dream never really went away. If anything, it grew stronger over time. I’ve always had a natural desire to care for people, to be there for them during difficult moments, and to make a difference in a real, hands-on way. Nursing is more than just a career to me—it’s a purpose. Going to college is what will finally allow me to turn that dream into something real. Higher education will give me the knowledge, training, and confidence I need to succeed in the medical field. I know it won’t be easy, but I also know I’m not the same person I was years ago. Being a mother taught me discipline, patience, and resilience. I’ve handled challenges, made sacrifices, and kept going even when things were hard. Those experiences have prepared me for this next step in a way that nothing else could. Going back to school is also about showing myself that it’s not too late. I want to prove to myself that I can still grow, still learn, and still achieve something I’ve wanted for so long. At the same time, I know my journey can inspire others—especially my children. I want them to see that no matter how long it takes, you can still go after what you want in life. As a future nurse, I plan to make a positive impact by caring for people with compassion and respect. I want patients to feel seen, heard, and supported, especially during times when they may feel vulnerable. I also hope to be a source of encouragement to others who may feel like they’ve missed their chance to pursue their goals. At the end of the day, going back to school is about building a stable and meaningful future—not just for my family, but for myself. It’s about finally stepping into a dream I’ve held onto for years and turning it into something real.