One of the biggest challenges I have faced is growing up in an unstable household while also navigating life as a first-generation Vietnamese American in Baltimore City. My parents’ divorce after years of conflict created an unpredictable home environment, and from a young age I had to learn how to adapt and stay focused even when things in my life felt uncertain. I also experienced challenges outside of my home that shaped how I see the world. In elementary school, my class went into lockdown because of a shooting nearby. That moment made me realize how quickly safety can be disrupted, even in places that are supposed to feel secure. It also made me more aware of how environment can affect a person’s sense of comfort and stability, especially for children. Later, when I moved to Howard County in fourth grade, I had to adjust to a very different environment. I went from a community where many families struggled financially to a place where many of my peers came from more privileged backgrounds. Learning how to fit in while staying true to myself was not always easy. It took time to feel comfortable, but it helped me become more confident, adaptable, and understanding of different perspectives. Another challenge I faced was taking on responsibilities at a young age. At fifteen, I worked as a receptionist at my mother’s nail salon and helped translate for her. I also worked in several other jobs, including Tropical Smoothie Café, a library internship, and outdoor ice rinks and golf courses. Balancing school, work, and family responsibilities taught me discipline, time management, and how to stay focused even when life is busy or stressful. These experiences shaped who I am today. They made me more independent, hardworking, and empathetic toward others who are going through difficulties. They also influenced my decision to pursue nursing because I understand how much people need support during stressful or uncertain times. Pursuing higher education is important to me because it will give me the knowledge, training, and skills I need to become a nurse. I want to learn how to provide both medical care and emotional support to patients. College will also help me grow more confident in myself and prepare me for a career where I can truly help others. In the future, I hope to use my education to build a stable career in nursing and give back to my community. My goal is to care for patients with compassion, understanding, and patience, especially those who may feel unheard or overwhelmed.

One of the biggest challenges I have faced is growing up in an unstable household while also navigating life as a first-generation Vietnamese American in Baltimore City. My parents’ divorce after years of conflict created an unpredictable home environment, and from a young age I had to learn how to adapt and stay focused even when things in my life felt uncertain. I also experienced challenges outside of my home that shaped how I see the world. In elementary school, my class went into lockdown because of a shooting nearby. That moment made me realize how quickly safety can be disrupted, even in places that are supposed to feel secure. It also made me more aware of how environment can affect a person’s sense of comfort and stability, especially for children. Later, when I moved to Howard County in fourth grade, I had to adjust to a very different environment. I went from a community where many families struggled financially to a place where many of my peers came from more privileged backgrounds. Learning how to fit in while staying true to myself was not always easy. It took time to feel comfortable, but it helped me become more confident, adaptable, and understanding of different perspectives. Another challenge I faced was taking on responsibilities at a young age. At fifteen, I worked as a receptionist at my mother’s nail salon and helped translate for her. I also worked in several other jobs, including Tropical Smoothie Café, a library internship, and outdoor ice rinks and golf courses. Balancing school, work, and family responsibilities taught me discipline, time management, and how to stay focused even when life is busy or stressful. These experiences shaped who I am today. They made me more independent, hardworking, and empathetic toward others who are going through difficulties. They also influenced my decision to pursue nursing because I understand how much people need support during stressful or uncertain times. Pursuing higher education is important to me because it will give me the knowledge, training, and skills I need to become a nurse. I want to learn how to provide both medical care and emotional support to patients. College will also help me grow more confident in myself and prepare me for a career where I can truly help others. In the future, I hope to use my education to build a stable career in nursing and give back to my community. My goal is to care for patients with compassion, understanding, and patience, especially those who may feel unheard or overwhelmed.