I’ve always been drawn to healing, not just the physical kind, but the emotional and spiritual healing that comes from being present for someone in their most vulnerable moments. Nursing, to me, is the beautiful intersection of science and compassion. It’s where knowledge meets care, and where a listening ear or a kind word can be just as powerful as any medicine. That’s why I’ve chosen to pursue a career in nursing: because I don’t just want to treat illnesses, I want to help people feel seen, heard, and valued. My journey began in small, ordinary moments. I would watch my aunt, who is a nurse, come home with stories of her patients, not just what condition they had, but what made them smile, what language they spoke, or how their family was holding up. She never treated it like a job; it was a calling. Her example inspired me deeply, but so did my own family’s experience navigating healthcare as Black patients. I saw firsthand the power of compassionate, culturally aware care, and how damaging it can be when that’s missing. What sealed my passion for nursing was the realization that I could be that nurse. The one who creates a safe space with her presence, who explains things clearly to overwhelmed families, who remembers the little details that make patients feel like people, not numbers. I aspire to be the kind of nurse who earns trust, one shift at a time. A goal of mine is to one day receive the DAISY Award, a recognition given to nurses who go above and beyond to deliver extraordinary care. It represents exactly what I’m working toward: not just competency, but compassion. I want my patients to feel so genuinely cared for that they leave not only healthier, but lighter, uplifted, and emotionally supported. I hope they remember the way I made them feel safe, especially when they were afraid. Nursing is not just a career path for me, it’s a mission rooted in service, empathy, and advocacy. I want to be a nurse who listens deeply, acts boldly, and loves fiercely in the face of sickness and uncertainty. My dream is to change the patient experience—not just through treatment, but through tenderness. I found out about this scholarship through the Bold.org platform recommended by a friend while actively searching for opportunities that support women of color in STEM and healthcare.

If I had to describe myself in one sentence, I’d say I’m a hopeful healer with a childlike spark and a passion for people. I’m the life of the party, the one cracking jokes to ease tension, the girl who still watches animated shows because they remind me that joy, imagination, and light-heartedness aren’t just for kids, they’re lifelines for adults navigating the real world. I believe that who I am funny, warm, creative, and deeply compassionate, isn’t separate from my career goals; it’s the very fuel that will drive me as I pursue a career in medicine. Growing up, I often found myself in spaces where people who looked like me Black, female, and full of potential, were missing from positions of care and power. Watching family members navigate a healthcare system that sometimes ignored their pain or misread their symptoms lit something in me. I knew I wanted to be the kind of nurse or medical professional who not only treated illness but treated people. The kind who listens, who understands cultural context, and who advocates when someone’s voice is shaking or unheard. What makes me unique isn’t just my GPA or ambition. It’s the blend of resilience and joy I carry with me. I’ve learned to show up for others even when life gets hard. I’ve led in my church, volunteered in food pantries and libraries, and served with children, all while balancing my own academic goals. I see service not as an obligation, but as a rhythm of life, a way to give back, heal forward, and create safe spaces where others can flourish. Receiving this scholarship would not only support my academic journey, but it would also validate the vision I have: a future where representation in healthcare isn’t rare, it’s expected. With this support, I can invest more time in community work, pursue clinical experiences, and focus on excelling in my public health and nursing courses at Rutgers without the added weight of financial stress. One day, I want to be the nurse who walks into a room and makes a patient smile before checking their vitals. The one who sees patients as people, not problems. The one who makes little Black girls believe they, too, can grow up and be caretakers of the world, without losing their sparkle. Because I’m not just studying medicine. I’m becoming a bridge between science and soul, knowledge and kindness, reality and a little bit of magic. Thank you for the opportunity - Lilly

If I had the power to make change in that area, what would I do? If I had the power to make change in the area of healthcare inequality, especially the lack of culturally competent care and representation of women of color in medical fields. I would build a living, moving platform of opportunity called “She Codes Care.” It would be a mobile innovation lab and mentorship hub that travels to underserved communities, particularly Black, Brown, and immigrant neighborhoods, to teach girls and young women how to build tech and healthcare solutions for problems they witness firsthand. This lab would be part health education, part digital lab, and part safe space. It would teach girls to code, but through the lens of community health, designing solutions to real medical issues their communities face. Think: apps that track maternal health disparities, platforms that decode complex medical language for patients, or tools that help organize and simplify healthcare access for immigrant families. In these mobile labs, students would be mentored by women who look like them, Black nurses, Latina engineers, Indigenous researchers, women who’ve walked the difficult roads and are ready to light the path ahead. I’d partner with universities and healthcare startups to provide curriculum, resources, and real-world problems for students to solve. These wouldn’t be internships students have to fight for, they’d be invitations. Every girl would not only learn to code or design, but to lead and innovate for the benefit of her own neighborhood. Why? Because I believe visionary change happens when the most overlooked are given the space to imagine without limits. If I had the power, I’d also build a digital storytelling archive alongside the lab, where every girl can document her journey. Whether she becomes a coder, a nurse, a nail artist or a CEO, she’ll know her story is worth telling and that the bridge she built will carry others. We often talk about “breaking down barriers,” but in many communities, there isn’t even a door to knock on. That’s why my approach would be to move the building closer. To bring access, exposure, and empowerment to the girls who are so often expected to find their way on their own. I want to disrupt the cycle of underrepresentation not by waiting for institutions to change, but by building new ones, on wheels, with WiFi, passion, and purpose. I don’t just want to have the power to make this change. I am learning, daily, that I am the power. All I need now are the resources to light the path Thank you for the opportunity - Lilly

My name is Lilly Kwasikumah and I believe that a true leader is someone who takes care of responsibilities, knows how to handle things, and thinks of others before themselves. Growing up as a child of God, the church has always been a cornerstone of my life, providing me with numerous opportunities to lead and serve. One of my most fulfilling leadership roles has been as the announcer and secretary in my church. As the announcer, I gather all the necessary information that the congregation needs to hear and ensure that every announcement is delivered clearly and effectively. This role requires me to be organized, articulate, and proactive, ensuring that everyone stays informed about upcoming events and important updates. With this role has also come the dedication to attending church every Sunday, which I have done for the past 5 years. Even when Covid hit and we were having virtual services. In my role as the secretary, I am responsible for attending all meetings, taking detailed notes, and staying on top of everything so I can assist other leaders with any questions or notes they may have, This position has taught me the importance of being attentive, reliable, and supportive. By keeping meticulous records and being a dependable resource, I help ensure that my church leadership functions smoothly and efficiently. Beyond my church responsibilities, I have also aided in leading various community service initiatives. Volunteering with the South River food pantry drive, I have helped collect and distribute food to those in need, demonstrating the importance of compassion and collective effort. As a Sunday school teacher, I have guided the younger generation in their spiritual growth with fun games, videos, and lessons from the bible. These experiences have reinforced my belief that a leader must be selfless and genuine in their efforts to help others. Outside of church, I spend my summers at the public library, helping kids fall in love with reading. This experience has shown me the joy of inspiring others and the impact that education can have on young minds. During my school year, my involvement with the Leo Club, a student-based community service club, has further honed my leadership skills. Working with my peers to host events and improve our school community has taught me the value of teamwork and dedication. At home, I lead by example, taking care of my siblings and fulfilling my role as the big sister. I am always there for my family, supporting them in any way I can. This sense of responsibility and care extends to all aspects of my life, as I strive to be a leader who is selfless, genuine, and committed to making a positive difference. In conclusion, my leadership experiences have shaped me into a compassionate, dedicated, and reliable individual. Whether through my church roles, community service, or family responsibilities, I am committed to leading with integrity and a genuine desire to help others, especially as I further continue my education and new journey at college. Thank you truly for considering my application, it would be an immense honor to be considered a strong leader. - Lilly Kwasikumah -

From an early age, my fascination with science and technology has driven my academic journey. As a high school student with a GPA of 4.2, I've thrived in challenging coursework while actively participating in extracurricular activities that deepen my passion for STEM. Engaging in clubs like "Girls Who Code" and the environmental club has provided me with hands-on experience in tackling real-world issues through scientific inquiry and innovation. My interest in biochemistry and computer science stems from their unique ability to blend intricate scientific understanding with practical applications. Biochemistry intrigues me with its exploration of biochemical processes at the molecular level, while computer science offers powerful tools for analyzing complex data and solving problems efficiently. Combining these disciplines, I aim to pursue a major in biochemistry with a minor in computer science, envisioning a future where I can contribute to advancements in biomedical research and environmental sustainability. The Harry B. Anderson Scholarship represents more than just financial support; it symbolizes an opportunity to honor a legacy of excellence and community impact. Harry B. Anderson's life story, from co-founding Anderson's Dairy to his work as a civil engineer and dedication to agricultural knowledge, inspires me to pursue excellence in my chosen field. His commitment to lifelong learning and community service resonates deeply with my own values of curiosity, resilience, and making a positive difference in the world. Receiving this scholarship would not only alleviate the financial burden of pursuing higher education but also validate my dedication to STEM disciplines. It would empower me to further explore my academic interests and expand my knowledge, ultimately equipping me with the skills to contribute meaningfully to society. I am eager to follow in Harry B. Anderson's footsteps by embracing challenges, fostering innovation, and leveraging scientific knowledge to address global challenges. Beyond academics, my involvement in "Girls Who Code" has allowed me to develop leadership skills and collaborate effectively with peers on coding projects. This experience has sharpened my technical skills and reinforced my commitment to using technology for positive impact. Looking ahead, I am excited about the prospect of applying my interdisciplinary knowledge to address pressing challenges in biochemistry and computer science. Whether through researching novel treatments for diseases or developing innovative software solutions for data analysis in healthcare, I am driven by a passion to make a meaningful impact in these fields.In conclusion, the Harry B. Anderson Scholarship would not only support my academic aspirations but also enable me to continue Harry B. Anderson's legacy of innovation and community service. I am grateful for the opportunity to apply for this scholarship and eager to contribute to the future of STEM, inspired by Harry B. Anderson's impactful life and career. ~Lilly Kwasikumah

As an African-born eldest daughter, my upbringing has been shaped by the cultural values of responsibility, resilience, and a profound appreciation for education. These values have guided me in my journey to achieve my academic aspirations and make a meaningful impact on the world. Growing up in a strict- managing household, I often had to balance multiple responsibilities, including taking care of my younger siblings while excelling in my studies. This experience taught me the importance of perseverance and time management, skills that have been crucial in my academic journey. My parents always emphasized the significance of education as a pathway to a better life, and their encouragement has been a constant source of motivation. My passion for reading was ignited during my high school years, particularly through my summer volunteering at the local library. This experience not only allowed me to immerse myself in countless books but also instilled a deep-seated love for learning. The library became a sanctuary where I could explore new ideas, gain knowledge, and fuel my curiosity. This passion for reading has profoundly influenced my academic interests and career aspirations. Attending college has always been a dream of mine, but the financial burden is a significant challenge. As a first gen student, receiving the Erich and Frieda Schmid Scholarship would be an incredible honor and a vital step toward achieving my educational goals. This scholarship would alleviate the financial stress, allowing me to focus on my studies and fully engage in my academic pursuits. My goal is to pursue a degree in biochemistry, a field that aligns with my passion for understanding the molecular ways of life. With this degree, I aim to contribute to advancements in medical research, focusing on discovering new treatments and improving healthcare outcomes. The Erich and Frieda Schmid Scholarship would not only support my educational journey but also enable me to carry forward the values of compassion and generosity that they embodied. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to apply for this scholarship. It would be an immense honor to honor the legacy of Erich and Frieda Schmid by achieving my academic dreams and using my education to make a difference in the world. This scholarship would empower me to pursue my passion for biochemistry and ultimately contribute to making the world a better place, just as Erich and Frieda Schmid did throughout their lives. ~Lilly Kwasikumah

Selflessness is a core value that I have strived to embody throughout my life, deeply influenced by my race and ethnicity. As an African-born eldest daughter, I have always felt a profound sense of responsibility to support my family and community. This cultural background instilled in me the importance of collective well-being and the significance of helping others, values I carry into every aspect of my life. Being a child of God has provided me with many opportunities to practice selflessness. Growing up in the church opened my eyes to the love and understanding of helping one another. My participation in various church events has been instrumental in shaping my commitment to community service. Whether organizing food drives, visiting the elderly, or participating in mission trips, these experiences have reinforced my belief in the importance of giving back and supporting those in need. My school played a crucial role in fostering my commitment to community service. Through various school programs and initiatives, I was able to connect with peers who shared my passion for making a difference. Being involved in these activities allowed me to witness firsthand the positive impact we could have, reinforcing my belief in the power of community support. One particular influence was my peer mentoring program, where senior students, including myself, provided academic and emotional support to freshmen. This student body club not only helped new students adjust but also strengthened my own sense of purpose and belonging. A defining experience for me has been my summer library volunteering. Throughout high school, I spent my summers helping out at the local library. This role not only allowed me to assist others, particularly young kids in accessing knowledge, resources & opening their precious minds to the world of books but, it also fostered my own love for reading. I developed an obsession with books, which has enriched my life and broadened my horizons. This passion for reading has been a constant source of inspiration, motivating me to continue learning and growing. In summary, my race and ethnicity have deeply influenced my dedication to selflessness. Through my faith, school’s supportive environment, and summer library experiences, I have been able to grow and make a meaningful difference in my community. These experiences have shaped my belief in the importance of helping others, a legacy I strive to continue in honor of individuals like Michael Rudometkin. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to apply for this scholarship and would be immensely honored to carry forward Michael's legacy of compassion and service. ~Lilly Kwasikumah

Oftentimes, I've come across this question & every time that I do, dodge it. Sometimes when I'm not lucky enough to dodge fast enough, the question camps in my head for an extended time & then I know I've hit a block. Looking back I guess my brain wasn't ready for the thought process behind it all. I knew for a fact that seeing this question meant that I was growing up & it was bound to be asked by a family friend or relative. I can now write an answer to this question with clarity & confidence. This journey of higher education is not merely a personal pursuit for me influenced by other's thoughts; it's a heartfelt dedication to the sacrifices my Dad made to provide my family opportunities in America. As a first-generation citizen from Ghana, my father's resilience and determination shaped the course of my mother's and sibling's lives. His unwavering belief in the power of education fueled the course of our lives. Majoring in biochemistry, a surprise interst for me will push me towards higher education for him. My Dad's journey from Ghana to America was not just a geographical transition; it was a profound commitment to securing a brighter future for his children who weren't even born yet. Leaving behind familiarity & embracing the unknown, he embraced the challenges of a new country, driven by the dream of providing us with a better education and, consequently, a better life. Being the first in my family to graduate high school & pursue higher education is not just a personal milestone, it's a tribute to my Dad. Every hurdle he overcame, was a testament to his unyielding commitment to our education. Something that I wasn't even pondering about during those times. my pursuit of education is, in essence, a manifestation of his dreams and aspirations for us. And I am proud to be the one to hold up the light & lead the rest of my siblings and future generations to come. I recognize that the road ahead will be demanding, but the challenges will be met with the same sprit of determination that guided my Dad. I've learned overtime to embrace every opportunity that i've had for personal & academic growth, reconogizing that each expierences wheather big or small contributes to my path for higher education. Reading, volunteering & public speaking have been the major things in my life that have molded me to who i am today. I've found joy & happiness is my involvment with my church, surrounded by my youth friend who accept my personality & encourage me to trive harder. Growing up, my love for books was more than just a pastime or a phase, it became my personality, the very thing that I looked forward to doing whenever I had the chance. From Dork Diaries and picture books to complex narratives with plots greater than my imagination. My literary journey piggybacked with me to now, offering solace and happiness as well as awe for the writers who put their dedication and creativity into their works of art. I count down the days until I can volunteer at the library. When books become my backdrop, surrounded by blasting air conditioners diligently trying to cool the spaces, and the not-so-quietness of children who never fully grasp the concept of being quiet. I anticipate fueling the kids’s excitement and encouraging them to read through engaging challenges and prizes. I hope to make my family, espically my dad proud & push through the barries of my family & become the first in my name.

Oftentimes, I've come across this question & every time that I do, dodge it. Sometimes when I'm not lucky enough to dodge fast enough, the question camps in my head for an extended time & then I know I've hit a block. Looking back I guess my brain wasn't ready for the thought process behind it all. I knew for a fact that seeing this question meant that I was growing up & it was bound to be asked by a family friend or relative. I can now write an answer to this question with clarity & confidence. This journey of higher education is not merely a personal pursuit for me influenced by other's thoughts; it's a heartfelt dedication to the sacrifices my Dad made to provide my family opportunities in America. As a first-generation citizen from Ghana, my father's resilience and determination shaped the course of my mother's and sibling's lives. His unwavering belief in the power of education fueled the course of our lives. Pursuing higher education & graduating is my only way of honoring his sacrifices. My Dad's journey from Ghana to America was not just a geographical transition; it was a profound commitment to securing a brighter future for his children who weren't even born yet. Leaving behind familiarity & embracing the unknown, he embraced the challenges of a new country, driven by the dream of providing us with a better education and, consequently, a better life. Being the first in my family to graduate high school & pursue higher education is not just a personal milestone, it's a tribute to my Dad. Every hurdle he overcame, was a testament to his unyielding commitment to our education. Something that I wasn't even pondering about during those times. my pursuit of education is, in essence, a manifestation of his dreams and aspirations for us. And I am proud to be the one to hold up the light & lead the rest of my siblings and future generations to come. I recognize that the road ahead will be demanding, but the challenges will be met with the same sprit of determination that guided my Dad. I've learned overtime to embrace every opportunity that i've had for personal & academic growth, reconogizing that each expierences wheather big or small contributes to my path for higher education. Reading, volunteering & public speaking have been the major things in my life that have molded me to who i am today. I've found joy & happiness is my involvment with my church, surrounded by my youth friend who accept my personality & encourage me to trive harder. Growing up, my love for books was more than just a pastime or a phase, it became my personality, the very thing that I looked forward to doing whenever I had the chance. From Dork Diaries and picture books to complex narratives with plots greater than my imagination. My literary journey piggybacked with me to now, offering solace and happiness as well as awe for the writers who put their dedication and creativity into their works of art. I count down the days until I can volunteer at the library. When books become my backdrop, surrounded by blasting air conditioners diligently trying to cool the spaces, and the not-so-quietness of children who never fully grasp the concept of being quiet. I anticipate fueling the kids’s excitement and encouraging them to read through engaging challenges and prizes. I hope to make my family, espically my dad proud & push through the barries of my family & become the first in my name.

I dream of achieving success in my life and being able to provide my parents with the stress-free life they never had when growing up & even living in America.

God has been a tremendous guide for me through my life. Epically as I go through the life stages as a young adult. I have been tested countless of times by God & in those times, he has shown me the right path that I should always choose. God has brought me into the right surroundings with amazing Faith-driven friends who feel the same way I feel. He has showered me with the unconditional laughter & happiness that I recieve from being with them. Choir practice & bible study days are always something that I greatly look foward to. They make me want to attend church events & be a servant of God. Growing up as a young Christian, my faith in God never really felt important to me. I read the Bible & prayed but I was also a kid who questioned the unquestionable & that made me feel as if I was a non-believer. My youth group has given me the confidence of speaking out & being vocal when it comes to my questions & opinions about Faith & Christianity. My personal life is now almost always about church. From choir practice, to Sunday school teaching, to announcements to Bible study. My life as a youth is being shaped solely by my faith in God & as a Christian. This constant exposure is what shapes my judgment in life & my actions. As our world is growing with my generation, I know that there will be countless of tests & decisions that I will have to make that may affect my stance on being a Christian. I think about it all the time I sometimes I fear that I will make a grave mistake & get lost in the world of sins but, I know that with my friends, my family & my undenying love for God & the Bible, I will be alright. God never wants to lose a devoted Christian espically his children because he wants us to believe & understand the rights from wrongs at an early age. As I grow older & further peruse my career in the medical field I know that My God will give me the wisdom & clarity to pass any tests that I may need to pass. I know that he will plant me in the right path with the right people & I know that my Faith in him will never diminish as I pursue my career. I know that there may be times when i maynot ve able to be in church but my faith will never die. He has given me much that I never really thought I needed, especially as a young adult and I am forever grateful & blessed in his holy name for what he has done for me.