As a child, I dreamed of becoming a teacher. I was inspired by the idea of making a difference in the lives of young minds, guiding them to reach their full potential, and creating a supportive environment where they could thrive. I saw education as a powerful tool for change, and I wanted to be a part of that transformative process. However, my life took a dramatic turn on January 7, 2000, when I lost my only brother to gun violence. That devastating event reshaped my perspective and my career aspirations. After my brother’s death, I was consumed by a desire for justice. I decided to pursue a degree in criminal justice, hoping to understand the legal system and perhaps contribute to preventing such tragedies from happening to other families. My studies in criminal justice taught me a great deal about the complexities of law enforcement and the challenges of seeking justice. However, as I delved deeper into the field, I realized that it was not the path that would bring me personal fulfillment or allow me to make the kind of impact I truly wanted. During this period of self-reflection, I began to explore other ways to serve my community. I wanted a career that would allow me to heal rather than focus solely on the pursuit of justice. Nursing emerged as a natural fit for my aspirations. As a nurse, I could combine my desire to help others with my passion for healthcare, which had grown stronger through my own battles with cancer and chronic illness. I realized that by becoming a nurse, I could play an active role in improving the lives of individuals and families, providing them with care, compassion, and support during their most vulnerable moments. Choosing nursing as my career path felt like coming full circle. While I once dreamed of teaching in a classroom, I now see myself teaching and empowering patients about their health and wellness. Whether it’s explaining treatment plans, offering emotional support, or advocating for better healthcare resources, I am still fulfilling my childhood desire to educate and uplift others—just in a different context. Today, as I work toward completing my Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at Chamberlain University, I am more determined than ever to make a meaningful contribution to my community. My experiences, both personal and professional, have shaped my understanding of resilience and the importance of compassionate care. The loss of my brother continues to inspire me to strive for a better, safer world, and nursing allows me to channel that inspiration into tangible action. While my childhood dream of becoming a teacher has evolved, the core values of that aspiration remain intact. I have simply found a different avenue to fulfill them. Nursing enables me to be a healer, an educator, and an advocate, roles that align closely with the person I always hoped to become. It is a career path that honors my brother’s memory, supports my family, and allows me to serve my community in a deeply impactful way. In conclusion, while my career path has shifted over the years, my desire to make a difference has remained constant. The journey from wanting to be a teacher to pursuing criminal justice, and finally finding my calling in nursing, reflects the resilience and adaptability I have developed through life’s challenges. I am grateful for the opportunity to turn my personal experiences into a career that embodies care, hope, and empowerment for others.

Balancing my education with my commitment to my family as a single parent is undoubtedly a challenge, but it is a challenge I approach with careful planning, determination, and unwavering focus. As a 44-year-old mother and caregiver, my children are my greatest motivation to succeed. Pursuing my Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) while managing family responsibilities has required me to develop strategies that prioritize both my academic and family commitments effectively. One key aspect of balancing these responsibilities is time management. I have learned to schedule my days meticulously, setting aside dedicated hours for studying, attending classes, and completing assignments. At the same time, I ensure that I am present for my children by dedicating quality time to their needs and activities. Establishing a routine has been essential in creating a sense of stability for my family while also allowing me to stay on track academically. I make use of tools like planners, calendars, and digital apps to organize my tasks and deadlines, ensuring that nothing falls through the cracks. Another critical factor in balancing these roles is creating a support network. While I am a single parent, I have reached out to friends, family members, and community resources for assistance when needed. Whether it is helping with childcare, providing emotional support, or offering guidance, this network has been instrumental in allowing me to focus on my studies when necessary. I also engage with my children, involving them in my educational journey by sharing my goals and accomplishments with them. This not only helps them understand the importance of education but also fosters a sense of teamwork and shared purpose within our family. Flexibility and resilience are also key components of my approach. Life as a single parent is unpredictable, and I’ve had to adapt to unexpected challenges, from health issues to financial strains. I’ve learned to remain flexible and resourceful, finding creative solutions to problems and remaining focused on my long-term goals despite short-term setbacks. Pursuing an online or hybrid education program has also provided me with the flexibility to learn at my own pace and manage my time more effectively. This scholarship would be a transformative resource in helping me achieve my goals of earning my degree. Financial challenges are one of the most significant barriers I face in completing my education. As someone who has already exceeded federal loan limits, securing additional funding is critical to ensuring I can continue my studies without further financial strain on my family. This scholarship would alleviate some of the financial burden, allowing me to focus more fully on my education and less on the stress of finding ways to pay for tuition and materials. Beyond the financial relief, receiving this scholarship would also serve as an affirmation of my hard work and dedication. It would provide me with the encouragement to keep pushing forward, even on the toughest days. Knowing that others believe in my potential and are willing to invest in my future would further motivate me to excel in my studies and achieve my dreams of becoming a nurse. In conclusion, balancing my education with my commitment to my family as a single parent requires careful planning, resilience, and the support of my community. This scholarship represents an opportunity to overcome financial barriers and focus wholeheartedly on achieving my goals. By earning my BSN, I will not only transform my own life but also create a better future for my children and contribute meaningfully to the healthcare profession. With this support, I can take another step closer to breaking barriers and making my dreams a reality.

Being the first in my family to obtain a college degree is a profound honor and responsibility. It means breaking generational barriers and setting a new precedent for my children and future generations. As a 44-year-old mother, breast cancer survivor, and someone who has faced immense challenges, earning a degree is more than just a personal achievement—it’s a beacon of hope for others in my family and community. My journey represents resilience, determination, and the unwavering belief that it is never too late to pursue one’s dreams. Growing up, I did not have the opportunity to see a clear pathway to higher education. My parents worked hard to provide for us, but college was an unfamiliar concept in our household. Now, as I pursue my Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at Chamberlain University, I am demonstrating to my children that perseverance and education can lead to a brighter future. This milestone is not just for me; it’s for every member of my family who dared to dream and for those who couldn’t. It is my way of rewriting our story and showing that success is achievable, no matter the obstacles. In college, my primary focus is on completing my BSN program. With only four classes left to graduate, I am determined to overcome the financial and physical challenges that stand in my way. Nursing has always been my passion because it combines my desire to help others with my fascination for healthcare and science. As someone who has battled health issues, including diabetes and cancer, I understand the critical role that compassionate, skilled nurses play in the lives of patients. My goal is to become a nurse who not only provides exceptional medical care but also offers empathy and understanding to those going through some of their toughest times. Beyond completing my degree, my long-term goals include advancing my career in nursing and specializing in oncology or diabetes education. Having experienced firsthand the challenges of managing chronic illness and surviving cancer, I want to use my experiences to support and educate others facing similar battles. I aim to work in a setting where I can empower patients with knowledge and resources, helping them navigate their health journeys with confidence and hope. Another significant long-term goal is to advocate for health equity and education in underserved communities. As a first-generation college graduate, I am deeply aware of the systemic barriers that prevent many individuals from accessing quality education and healthcare. I want to contribute to bridging those gaps by mentoring aspiring healthcare professionals and volunteering in initiatives that promote health literacy and access. Ultimately, being the first in my family to earn a college degree means carrying the torch of change. It’s about paving the way for others and proving that determination can overcome adversity. My journey is a testament to the power of resilience and the transformative potential of education. With my degree, I hope to not only transform my life but also make a lasting impact on my family, my patients, and my community.

Faith has always been an integral part of my life, a guiding force through the ups and downs of my journey. One of the most challenging times I faced was during my battle with breast cancer. At the age of 44, as a mother of four, I found myself grappling with the devastating diagnosis that would change my life forever. The news was overwhelming—breast cancer, a double mastectomy, a full hysterectomy, and the physical and emotional toll that accompanied these procedures. Despite the immense fear and uncertainty, I turned to my faith as my source of strength and hope. During this time, my faith became my anchor. I remember praying daily for the courage to endure the treatments, the surgeries, and the pain. As a mother, my greatest fear was not being there for my children, and that fear could have easily consumed me. Instead, I relied on my faith to keep me grounded and focused. I believed that God had a purpose for me, even in the face of such adversity. Through scripture, prayer, and moments of quiet reflection, I found peace in trusting that I was not walking this journey alone. My faith reminded me that I had the strength within me to keep fighting—not just for myself but for my family and the dreams I still wanted to pursue. One of the most profound moments came during my recovery after surgery. Unable to lift more than five pounds and struggling with my new reality, I found myself questioning my purpose and future. It was during one of these low points that I experienced a moment of clarity in prayer. I felt an overwhelming sense of reassurance that my journey wasn’t over, that I was being prepared for something greater. This realization inspired me to pursue my nursing degree, turning my pain into purpose. My faith reminded me that the trials I endured could be used to help others and that my experience as a survivor could serve as a source of hope for patients navigating their own health battles. Even now, as I continue my journey toward becoming a nurse, faith remains central to my resilience. It has been the foundation of my perseverance as I balance motherhood, my career as a dialysis technician, and my studies. It gives me the strength to overcome financial and personal hardships and to see every challenge as an opportunity for growth. Through my faith, I have learned that no obstacle is insurmountable and that there is always a way forward, even in the darkest moments. My experience with breast cancer has strengthened my commitment to helping others, particularly those in underserved communities, where faith can be a source of comfort and healing. I want to bring that same spirit of hope to my future patients, using my journey to inspire and uplift others. In every challenge I have faced, my faith has been a reminder that I am not alone and that with perseverance, trust, and hope, I can overcome anything. It has shaped not only who I am as a person but also the compassionate nurse I aspire to become.

I am a 44-year-old mother, breast cancer survivor, and first-generation Mexican-American pursuing my Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at Chamberlain University. Over the past 17 years, I have worked in healthcare as a dialysis technician, and previously, I spent 5 years as a corrections officer. These roles have given me a strong foundation in patient care, resilience, and the ability to work in high-pressure environments. My personal experiences, especially overcoming cancer and raising four children as a young mother, have inspired me to pursue a nursing career. I have faced many challenges, including balancing work, raising a family, and continuing my education, but my passion for nursing has kept me focused on my goal. This is more than just a career for me—it’s a way to give back to my community and honor the sacrifices my immigrant parents made for me. As a first-generation college student, I understand the challenges that come with pursuing higher education. My parents didn’t have the opportunity to attend school, so I’ve always felt a deep sense of responsibility to complete my education, not just for myself but for them as well. I have spent years working toward this goal while navigating personal and financial hardships. I’m now just four classes away from earning my BSN, but the financial barriers remain one of the biggest obstacles. This scholarship will provide the financial relief I need to complete my degree and allow me to focus on the final stretch of my education without the constant worry of tuition costs. It will help me balance my responsibilities as a mother, healthcare professional, and student, making it possible for me to stay committed to my nursing education. My vision is to specialize in oncology, using my experience as a cancer survivor to offer compassionate care to patients going through similar challenges. This scholarship will allow me to complete my education, enabling me to serve in a field that is not only meaningful to me but also has a tremendous impact on the lives of others. In addition to providing patient care, I am passionate about addressing healthcare disparities, particularly in underserved communities, and advocating for those who face systemic barriers to care. Once I graduate, I also hope to mentor other young, nontraditional students, especially those from minority backgrounds like mine, to help them navigate the challenges of pursuing healthcare careers. This scholarship is more than just financial aid—it’s an investment in my future, my community, and my ability to make a positive, lasting impact.

Tell us about a problem you have overcome in your life? One of the most significant challenges I’ve faced in my life was navigating my health battles while balancing the responsibilities of being a young mother and pursuing my education. I was diagnosed with breast cancer, and shortly after, I underwent a double mastectomy and full hysterectomy. Despite these physical and emotional obstacles, I refused to let my circumstances define me. As a mother of four, I needed to keep fighting not just for my own survival, but also for my children’s future. This experience taught me the true meaning of perseverance, resilience, and the importance of a positive mindset in the face of adversity. It also deepened my passion for helping others, especially those in vulnerable situations, and solidified my decision to pursue a career in nursing. How will this scholarship help you give back to the community? This scholarship will greatly help me achieve my goal of becoming a nurse and allow me to continue to serve my community. It will ease the financial burden of completing my nursing degree, enabling me to focus more on my education and less on financial stress. Once I become a nurse, I plan to work in underserved communities, where access to healthcare is often limited. I am especially passionate about advocating for patients who are overlooked due to financial, cultural, or systemic barriers. My experiences as a dialysis technician and corrections officer have shown me the importance of compassionate, culturally competent care, and I hope to pass on this knowledge to others. Additionally, I aim to mentor young individuals, especially from minority or nontraditional backgrounds, helping them overcome challenges and pursue careers in healthcare, as I have done. Ultimately, this scholarship will not only help me further my own career but will allow me to pay forward the support I have received by giving back to those who need it most. Philately is a hobby that promotes the study of postage stamps. How would you encourage young people to pursue this hobby? While philately may not be widely recognized by younger generations, I believe it offers valuable lessons that can enrich a young person's life. Philately can teach young people about history, geography, art, and the world’s cultures—all through the lens of postage stamps. Each stamp tells a story, whether it's about historical events, famous personalities, or landmarks. I would encourage young people to explore philately by making it an interactive learning experience. They can collect stamps from different countries and learn about the significance behind them, developing a deeper understanding of the world’s diversity. Additionally, philately can be a way for them to connect with others who share similar interests, fostering a sense of community. As a hobby that combines education and creativity, philately has the potential to cultivate a lifelong passion while broadening one's horizons.

My journey to becoming a nurse has been shaped by personal experiences, cultural values, and an unwavering determination to overcome challenges. As a 44-year-old mother, breast cancer survivor, and first-generation Mexican-American, my life has been defined by resilience and a commitment to achieving the “American Dream.” Pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at Chamberlain University is not just a personal milestone—it’s a reflection of my family’s sacrifices, my culture’s values, and my desire to serve others. My vision for myself as a nurse is one of advocacy, empowerment, and compassion, deeply rooted in the unique path that has brought me here. Being the first in my family to attend college is a responsibility I carry with immense pride. My parents immigrated to the United States with hopes of building a better future for their children. While they didn’t have the opportunity to pursue an education, they taught me the value of hard work, perseverance, and serving others. Their sacrifices have always motivated me to push forward, even when faced with obstacles. Raising four children as a young mother while navigating the complexities of life as a first-generation American was no easy task. There were times when balancing work, parenting, and my dreams of earning a degree felt overwhelming, but I never gave up. I wanted to show my children—and my community—that perseverance and determination can lead to success. Earning my nursing degree will not only fulfill my personal goals but also honor the sacrifices my parents made and set an example for my children to believe in the power of education. As a nurse, I envision myself specializing in oncology, a field that resonates deeply with me as a breast cancer survivor. Having undergone a double mastectomy, a hysterectomy, and other challenges, I understand the physical and emotional toll of a cancer diagnosis. I want to use my experiences to provide empathetic, holistic care for patients and their families, offering not only medical expertise but also emotional support. In addition to patient care, I am passionate about addressing healthcare disparities, especially in underserved communities. Growing up in a Hispanic household, I witnessed how barriers such as language, financial hardship, and systemic inequities often prevent families from accessing quality care. My goal is to advocate for health equity, ensuring that everyone—regardless of their background—receives the dignity and care they deserve. Beyond clinical work, I hope to mentor aspiring nurses, particularly those from minority or nontraditional backgrounds like mine. Returning to school as an older student has taught me the value of perseverance, and I want to help others see that it is never too late to pursue their dreams. By sharing my story, I aim to inspire and empower future nurses to overcome challenges and achieve their goals. In every aspect of my nursing career, I want to embrace a holistic approach to care, addressing not only physical health but also the emotional, spiritual, and cultural needs of my patients. My identity as a first-generation Mexican-American and my life experiences have given me a deep understanding of the importance of compassion, advocacy, and cultural competence. In conclusion, my vision as a nurse is to be a compassionate caregiver, an advocate for health equity, and a mentor to others. Becoming a first-generation college graduate is a testament to my parents’ sacrifices, my determination, and my commitment to creating a better future for myself, my family, and my community. Nursing is more than a career for me; it is a calling that allows me to honor my past while building a brighter tomorrow.

My Vision for Myself as a Nurse in the Future My journey to becoming a nurse has been shaped by personal experiences, cultural values, and a deep commitment to serving others. As a 44-year-old mother, breast cancer survivor, and someone who has faced multiple health challenges, I have witnessed firsthand the life-changing impact of compassionate care. These experiences have inspired me to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at Chamberlain University, where I am just four classes away from achieving my dream. My vision for myself as a nurse is one of advocacy, empowerment, and compassion, built on my life’s journey and the values instilled in me by my Hispanic heritage. In the future, I see myself specializing in oncology nursing, a field that resonates deeply with me as a cancer survivor. Having endured a double mastectomy, a full hysterectomy, and other complications, I understand the physical, emotional, and psychological toll of a cancer diagnosis. As a nurse, I want to be a source of hope and strength for patients and their families during some of their most difficult times. My personal experiences will allow me to connect with patients on a profound level, offering not just clinical expertise but also empathy and understanding. My vision extends beyond providing bedside care. I am committed to advocating for health equity, particularly for underserved populations. Growing up in a Hispanic community, I have seen how systemic barriers can limit access to quality healthcare, especially for minority groups and individuals facing financial struggles. My own health challenges have further highlighted these disparities, reinforcing my determination to be a voice for those who often feel unheard. I want to work in communities where access to healthcare is limited, ensuring that every patient receives the dignity and quality care they deserve, regardless of their background or circumstances. Education will also play a significant role in my future as a nurse. I envision myself not only caring for patients but also empowering them with knowledge about their health. Whether it’s teaching preventive measures, explaining treatment options, or simply answering questions with patience and clarity, I want to help individuals feel more in control of their health journeys. For me, nursing is as much about educating and empowering as it is about healing. In addition to patient care, I hope to mentor aspiring nurses, particularly those from minority or nontraditional backgrounds like mine. Returning to school as an older student has taught me the value of perseverance, and I want to inspire others to pursue their dreams despite life’s obstacles. By sharing my story and offering guidance, I hope to contribute to a future generation of nurses who are passionate, skilled, and compassionate. Finally, my vision as a nurse includes a focus on holistic care. I believe that true healing involves addressing not just physical symptoms but also emotional and spiritual well-being. Drawing from my own experiences with illness and recovery, I aim to create a safe and supportive space for patients to feel seen, heard, and cared for as whole individuals. In conclusion, my vision for myself as a nurse is to be a compassionate caregiver, an advocate for health equity, an educator, and a mentor. I want to use my personal journey and professional knowledge to make a meaningful difference in the lives of my patients and the broader community. Nursing, for me, is not just a career but a calling—one that allows me to live out my values of service, resilience, and compassion every day.

I am a 44-year-old mother, a breast cancer survivor, and a proud Hispanic woman who is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at Chamberlain University. My life has been shaped by resilience, faith, and a deep commitment to serving others—values instilled in me through my family and life experiences. Overcoming numerous challenges, including a double mastectomy, full hysterectomy, early-stage uterine cancer, and diabetes, has taught me the importance of perseverance and giving back to my community. One of the most meaningful ways I’ve made a positive impact on my community was through feeding the homeless in my old neighborhood in Glendale, Arizona. For several months, I prepared meals in my own home and distributed them to individuals and families struggling with homelessness. It wasn’t a large operation—just me, some pots and pans, and a heart full of compassion—but the impact was significant. Seeing the gratitude on their faces and knowing I was helping to provide comfort and nourishment during a difficult time reaffirmed my belief in the power of service. In addition to feeding the homeless, I have also served my community in other ways, such as volunteering at a senior center and at my previous church. At the senior center, I assisted with activities and spent time with the residents, many of whom simply wanted someone to listen and share in their stories. At church, I helped organize events and supported members of the congregation in times of need. These experiences taught me the value of showing up for others, even in small, everyday ways. Each of these acts of servitude reinforced my desire to pursue a career in nursing. I realized that serving others, whether through sharing a meal, offering a listening ear, or providing compassionate care, is at the core of who I am. My experiences have not only shaped my personal values but also deepened my commitment to making a positive impact in my community. As a future nurse, I plan to continue this legacy of service by providing compassionate, culturally competent care to patients, particularly those in underserved communities. My goal is to use my education and life experiences to advocate for health equity and support those who are often overlooked. Nursing, for me, is not just a career—it is a calling and an extension of the servitude I’ve practiced throughout my life. In every act of service, whether large or small, I’ve seen the ripple effect of kindness and care. These moments inspire me to keep moving forward, to complete my education, and to continue making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

My educational journey has been anything but linear, but every step has brought me closer to where I am today—on the brink of completing my Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at Chamberlain University. As a 44-year-old mother and breast cancer survivor, my path back to school has been a testament to resilience and determination, shaped by life’s unexpected turns and an unwavering commitment to helping others. When I first began my college education years ago, nursing wasn’t on my radar. I initially pursued a different path, but life’s responsibilities, including raising a family and managing financial challenges, led me to pause my education. Over the years, I worked in various roles, gaining experience in different fields but always feeling that something was missing. It wasn’t until I faced my own health battles that I realized my true calling was in nursing. The "aha" moment that made me know I wanted to become a nurse came during one of the most difficult times of my life. As a breast cancer survivor who underwent a double mastectomy and a full hysterectomy, I spent countless hours in hospitals, interacting with nurses who cared for me with incredible compassion and professionalism. Their presence during my most vulnerable moments was life-changing. I distinctly remember one nurse who stayed by my side during a particularly painful procedure, not only easing my physical pain but also comforting me emotionally. Her kindness made me realize the profound impact a nurse can have on a patient’s life. It was in those moments that I knew I wanted to be that source of comfort and strength for others. Returning to school as a nontraditional student was not easy, especially while managing ongoing health challenges, including early-stage uterine cancer and diabetes. However, my determination to make a difference in the lives of others gave me the strength to persevere. My Hispanic family background, with its emphasis on resilience and community, also played a significant role in my decision to return to school. I wanted to show my children and others in my community that it’s never too late to pursue your dreams. At Chamberlain University, I’ve not only gained the knowledge and skills to become a nurse but also developed a deeper understanding of how I want to use my degree. I’m particularly drawn to oncology nursing, where I can use my personal experiences as a cancer survivor to connect with patients on a deeper level. I want to be a source of hope and empowerment, helping others navigate their own health journeys with dignity and care. This educational journey has been one of self-discovery, growth, and purpose. Each class, clinical experience, and personal challenge has reaffirmed my decision to pursue nursing. I am now just four classes away from completing my degree, and while the road hasn’t been easy, I wouldn’t trade this experience for anything. It has shaped me into someone who is not only prepared to succeed as a nurse but also passionate about advocating for underserved communities and providing culturally competent care. Looking back, every career switch, life challenge, and decision to return to school has brought me closer to my purpose. Nursing is more than a career for me—it’s a calling. My experiences have taught me the value of compassion, resilience, and the importance of serving others. I am eager to take the next step in my journey and use my education to make a meaningful impact in the lives of my patients and my community.

Reflecting on my life journey, I see how my Hispanic heritage and the experiences I’ve faced have shaped my worldview, personal values, and career aspirations. Growing up in a Hispanic family, I was raised with a deep sense of community, perseverance, and respect for others. These values became my foundation as I navigated life’s challenges and ultimately led me to pursue higher education at this stage in my life. As a 44-year-old mother, a breast cancer survivor, and someone managing early-stage uterine cancer and diabetes, my path has not been easy. My Hispanic upbringing taught me the importance of family, hard work, and resilience, all of which have helped me persevere through hardship. I vividly remember the unwavering support of my family during my battles with cancer. It reminded me of how tightly knit and supportive our culture is, even in the face of adversity. This sense of unity fuels my desire to give back to others, just as I was supported during my most vulnerable moments. The challenges I’ve faced have profoundly shaped my perspective on life and deepened my empathy for others. My experience with illness opened my eyes to the disparities in healthcare, particularly in underserved communities. Being unable to work due to health complications and facing financial struggles, including eviction, further exposed me to the struggles many people in my community endure. These experiences have strengthened my commitment to becoming a nurse who can advocate for and uplift those in need, especially individuals from marginalized communities who often feel unseen or unheard. Community service and giving back are not just values I was raised with—they are responsibilities I carry forward. My education at Chamberlain University is the next step in fulfilling this purpose. With only four classes left to graduate with my Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), I am determined to use my education to provide culturally competent and compassionate care to my future patients. My goal is to work in oncology nursing, where I can connect with patients on a personal level as someone who truly understands their journey. This scholarship would be life-changing, as it would allow me to overcome the financial barriers that have made completing my degree so difficult. I have already exceeded federal loan limits, and this financial support would lift a significant burden, enabling me to focus entirely on my education and career goals. More importantly, it would allow me to honor the values instilled in me by my Hispanic upbringing: resilience, service, and the power of family and community. Upon earning my degree, I plan to specialize in oncology nursing, where I can combine my medical knowledge with my personal experiences to serve as a source of strength and hope for others. I also aspire to be a role model for my children, showing them that with determination and the right support, anything is possible. My long-term vision is to advocate for preventive healthcare and health education, ensuring that all individuals, regardless of background, have access to resources that could save their lives. In conclusion, my Hispanic family background has taught me the importance of resilience, compassion, and service to others. These values, combined with my life experiences, have shaped my unwavering commitment to making a positive impact. Completing my education will allow me to fulfill this mission and create meaningful change in my community and chosen field.

Reflecting on my life journey, I realize that each challenge and triumph has uniquely shaped who I am today and inspired me to pursue higher education at this stage in my life. As a 44-year-old mother and breast cancer survivor, my path has been anything but conventional. My experiences with illness, financial hardship, and resilience have not only deepened my personal values but also solidified my commitment to making a difference in my community. Surviving breast cancer and undergoing a double mastectomy, full hysterectomy, and recent surgery for early-stage uterine cancer have profoundly transformed my perspective on life. These trials taught me the importance of perseverance, empathy, and the human spirit's strength. While battling cancer and managing diabetes, I gained a deep appreciation for the healthcare professionals who provided me with compassionate care. This inspired my decision to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at Chamberlain University, where I am just four classes away from graduation. My journey has also instilled in me a strong sense of purpose. Being unable to work due to my health and facing financial challenges, including eviction, has reinforced my commitment to overcoming obstacles and helping others do the same. These experiences have taught me resilience and adaptability—qualities that I believe are essential in both my personal and professional life. Community service has always been an integral part of my values. As someone who has navigated significant hardships, I understand the importance of giving back and supporting others. Through my education, I aspire to become a nurse who not only provides clinical care but also serves as an advocate for underserved populations. I envision working with patients from diverse backgrounds, particularly those facing financial and health disparities, as I have. My goal is to empower them with knowledge, compassion, and quality care, just as others did for me during my most vulnerable moments. This scholarship would play a pivotal role in helping me achieve my goals. Having exceeded federal loan limits, I am in urgent need of financial assistance to complete my degree. The scholarship would alleviate the financial burden, allowing me to focus entirely on my studies and future career. It would also enable me to become a role model for my children and others in my community, demonstrating that perseverance and hard work can lead to meaningful accomplishments, no matter the obstacles. Upon earning my BSN, I plan to specialize in oncology nursing, where I can use my personal experiences as a cancer survivor to connect with patients on a deeper level. I hope to provide the same level of care and encouragement that I received during my journey. Additionally, I want to use my education to advocate for preventive health education, ensuring that others have access to resources and knowledge that could potentially save their lives. In conclusion, my life journey has been shaped by resilience, determination, and an unwavering commitment to making a positive impact. Higher education is not just a personal achievement; it is a means to fulfill my mission of serving others. This scholarship will not only help me complete my education but also empower me to bring meaningful change to my community and chosen field.