I didn’t always know I was going to be a nurse. I had always wanted to be a cardiologist growing up. I grew up watching my mom go through endless heart breaks and as a kid I thought that if I could become a heart doctor, I could finally fix hers long enough not to see her cry anymore. In fact, I didn’t know I was supposed to be a nurse until I was working towards medical school by getting a degree in Biochemistry and shadowing a physician that it hit. It was after shadowing for a few months that I knew where I could really make an impact in patients’ lives, but that would mean switching from premed to nursing. I saw how little time I was able to spend with my patients compared to the hours of love and care nurses were able to put in. That they were the true healers of the person, not just the disease. Being a healer of the person, not the diagnosis, is what I had always wanted and strived for. I am so excited to be another addition into the world of nursing and cannot wait to make an impact in the lives of those in my community The journey to becoming a nurse is not without its challenges. To address my financial need, this scholarship represents an opportunity for me to make a significant difference in the lives of my family and others once I graduate. I currently am working as a nurse extern to gain experience and to be able to pay for school. Unfortunately it isn't able to cover everything. Financial constraints weigh heavily on my family, making it difficult to afford with the rising costs of higher education. My husband and I work tirelessly to support my dream of becoming a nurse, but our income is limited, leaving us struggle to cover tuition, books, and potentially my NCLEX. Receiving this scholarship would help to alleviate some of the financial strain, allowing me to focus more on my studies and clinicals without the constant worry of how to pay for my education and bills. Keeping this in mind, my plan once I graduate is to provide a scholarship of my own to the students at my university to help with the financial burden other's may be feeling. I am a huge participant in my community currently. Volunteering has always been a huge part of my life. For the last few years, I have volunteered with Sleep in Heavenly Peace which is an organization that builds beds for the children in San Antonio that do not have a bed of their own. Once the beds have been built, we have delivered them with a new comforter, mattress, and pillows to the homes of those children. These experiences have helped open my eyes to the reality of others’ situations. While putting the beds together in the home, I was able to spend time with these kids and talk about their lives and what they go through on a daily basis. This experience taught me the importance of empathy, compassion, and understanding, even in the most challenging situations. My plan post graduation is to continue volunteering in my community and to provide direct patient care to my patients as a nurse. I want to make sure other's physical and emotional needs are met, and that they have someone to advocate for them. I am so excited to start my career as a nurse and am thankful for the opportunity to be considered for this scholarship. Thank you.

I didn’t always know I was going to be a nurse. I had always wanted to be a cardiologist growing up. I grew up watching my mom go through endless heart breaks and as a kid I thought that if I could become a heart doctor, I could finally fix hers long enough not to see her cry anymore. In fact, I didn’t know I was supposed to be a nurse until I was working towards medical school by getting a degree in Biochemistry and shadowing a physician that it hit. It was after shadowing for a few months that I knew where I could really make an impact in patients’ lives, but that would mean switching from premed to nursing. I saw how little time I was able to spend with my patients compared to the hours of love and care nurses were able to put in. That they were the true healers of the person, not just the disease. Being a healer of the person, not the diagnosis, is what I had always wanted and strived for. I am so excited to be another addition into the world of nursing and cannot wait to make an impact in the lives of those in my community. One accomplishment I am really proud of was establishing the first nursing association on my campus. I saw a need for mentors among students and a need for community. In the year that we have been established, the Hallmark Nursing Association has been able to volunteer within the community through 5k for Breast Cancer, Sleep in Heavenly Peace, in our own Pinning Ceremonies, as well as others. We have established a mentoring and tutoring program for our nursing to excel in the program. Volunteering has always been a huge part of my life. For the last few years, I have volunteered with Sleep in Heavenly Peace which is an organization that builds beds for the children in San Antonio that do not have a bed of their own. Once the beds have been built, we have delivered them with a new comforter, mattress, and pillows to the homes of those children. These experiences have helped open my eyes to the reality of others’ situations. While putting the beds together in the home, I was able to spend time with these kids and talk about their lives and what they go through on a daily basis. This experience taught me the importance of empathy, compassion, and understanding, even in the most challenging situations. With every new experience or position I have had has brought me closer to my goal. I started out as a premed student, who worked as an MA. As an MA, my role expanded past what one would expect. In the first two years that he was open, I had the opportunity to start out at the front desk, moved into a position as a medical assistant, became the in-house phlebotomist, and was able to establish an in house lab. I took so much joy in watching the practice grow, building relationships with patients, and caring for those who needed it. I now work as a nurse extern on the Med-Surg Tele floor, and I have gained even more skills that has made me excited for when I gain my nursing license. I am so excited for the chance to make a difference within each setting I work, and being able to make a difference in other's lives. I cannot wait to be a nurse and be a change in the world. I cannot wait to see the person I become.

An anime that has really stood out among the rest is Fruit Basket. I clicked on the anime initially because it was classified as an "easy watch", but has become a beloved favorite that I watch at least once a month. Fruit Basket has captured my heart with every complex character who initially seemed superficial but holds more depth. Every character in this series strives for the same thing, but due to their history and complex nature, they seem to find difficulty in gaining the thing they most long for. What is this thing everyone in this series is after? They all want to feel the sense of belonging. As the series progresses, it is one character that opens this door for them, and that character is none other than Tohru Honda. The small, happy brunette who has lost everything finds love and belonging in the Sohma family and her surrounding friends. I have loved watching each character’s hardened exterior melt with time as they are exposed more and more to her. Although it takes longer for some of the Sohma family to open up to her, each member is met with nothing but warmth and love from Torhu. I love that this series shows the complexity of each role that every member of the Somha family plays, and how they seem to break down their roles and grow as individuals. Each time I have watched the series I have been able to associate different aspects of myself with them. With every individual I have attached myself with, I felt their struggles and couldn’t help but cheer them on with each time they were able to grow. For example, the character Akito is seen as the “villian” initially. This is the character that is always sick, and taking on the role of the sacrificial lamb. But with every episode, Akito’s backstory comes to light. She was told relentlessly that she was “special” and loved regardless of what she did. Unfortunately, she seemed to watch as all the zodiac members “left” her for others, and in return she started to act out in a rage because she didn’t want to lose them due to the curse. This caused all the members to want to avoid her and made her “lose” them until the end when she became more of her true self, no longer consumed with hatred and fear. This is the series that has gotten me through nursing school and has been a comfort overall. If I were to recommend an anime to someone, Fruit Basket would be it.

The sterile scent of disinfectant and the rhythmic beep of the EKG machine are familiar lullabies to me. My childhood wasn't spent in playgrounds, but in the sterile hallways of our small-town ER. Accident-prone to a fault, I practically knew the nurses by name, their faces etched in a comforting familiarity. They weren't just superheroes in white coats; they were aunts who soothed my tears and magicians who mended my scraped knees. Witnessing their tireless dedication, their gentle touch amidst the chaos, ignited a spark within me. Fixing, healing – it wasn't just a fascination, it was a calling. My initial foray into this world was through the lens of biochemistry. I dove headfirst into dissecting cells, unraveling the intricate tapestry of the human body. But the closer I got, the more I craved the human connection. Textbooks couldn't replicate the warmth of a hand held tight, the reassurance in a knowing smile. That's when I knew my calling was in the vibrant world of nursing. It was while working at a local family practice that Dr. Terry, with his twinkling eyes and endless patience, became my mentor. But it was the nurse practitioners, Jamie and Hannah, who truly captivated me. They weren't just prescribing medications; they were storytellers, confidantes, pillars of strength. They held the hands of the anxious, listened to the unspoken fears, and celebrated every milestone, big or small. Jamie, with her infectious laugh, taught me the art of humor as therapy, while Hannah, ever-composed, instilled in me the importance of quiet strength. My "aha" moment wasn't a single epiphany, but a gradual dawning. It was the way Jamie's eyes crinkled with joy when a young mother cradled her newborn for their first round of vaccines, the way Hannah's calm presence eased the tremors of a terrified patient. It was the countless cups of coffee shared, the tears cried and triumphs celebrated – all within the sacred space of care and compassion. I realized that healing wasn't just about diagnoses and medications; it was about building bridges of trust, offering a hand to hold, and celebrating the quiet victories of the human spirit. So, here I am, a junior in my nursing program, my textbooks filled with scribbled notes and diagrams. The path ahead is long, paved with sleepless nights and clinical rotations. But the faces of Hannah and Jamie, the stories etched in every wrinkle of Dr. Terry's eyes – they fuel my fire. They remind me that I'm not just chasing a career, I'm chasing a purpose. I want to be the nurse who holds a hand through the storm, who whispers hope into the darkness, who celebrates the quiet resilience of the human spirit. This is my journey, not a straight line, but a winding path led by the steady beat of a calling. It's a journey that began in a small-town ER, fueled by the kindness of strangers, and guided by the unwavering belief that the greatest medicine is not found in a bottle, but in the depths of human connection. And someday, when I stand at the bedside, stethoscope in hand and heart brimming with empathy, I'll know I'm exactly where I'm supposed to be – mending not just bodies, but the broken threads of hope, one story at a time.

From a young age, the desire to heal has resided deep within me. It wasn't just a fleeting interest, but a burning passion fueled by a childhood memory etched into my very being. Witnessing my mother's numerous heartbreaks, a pain I couldn't fully comprehend at the time, sparked a yearning to alleviate suffering and mend broken hearts. In that moment, a seed was planted, and the desire to become a nurse blossomed. My fascination with the human body and its intricate functions further nurtured this seed. Science classes became adventures, biology textbooks devoured with insatiable curiosity. I marveled at the delicate balance of life, the complex systems that kept us functioning, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. This scientific lens became intertwined with my compassionate nature, creating a powerful drive to not only understand illness but to alleviate it. As I grew older, my desire to become a nurse was cemented through experiences beyond personal reflection. Going through a course in high school, shadowing providers and nurses alike, provided a glimpse into the world of healthcare, revealing the dedication and compassion of nurses firsthand. I witnessed their tireless efforts, their ability to provide comfort in the face of fear, and their unwavering commitment to patient well-being. Their actions resonated with my own desire to make a positive impact on the lives of others. But the path to becoming a nurse wasn't always paved with ease. Doubts and anxieties crept in, questioning my capabilities and resilience. Yet, the memory of my mother's heartbreaks served as a constant reminder of my purpose. It fueled a determination to overcome challenges and persevere through obstacles. The countless stories of nurses who made a difference in the lives of others provided unwavering inspiration. While the journey to becoming a nurse is demanding, it is also incredibly rewarding. The opportunity to connect with patients, to alleviate their pain and anxiety, and to offer support during vulnerable times is a privilege I hold dear. The knowledge that my skills and dedication can make a tangible difference in someone's life is a source of immense satisfaction. Looking back, I realize that my desire to become a nurse wasn't born in a single moment, but rather nurtured by a combination of personal experiences, a fascination with science, and an unwavering desire to alleviate suffering. It is a calling fueled by compassion, empathy, and a deep respect for the human spirit. As I embark on this journey, I am filled with both trepidation and excitement, knowing that the challenges will be numerous, but the rewards immeasurable. I am confident that the seed planted in my childhood will continue to bloom, guiding me to become the kind of nurse who heals not only broken bodies, but also broken hearts.

I grew up thinking people always forced smiles. We were supposed to smile, we were supposed to laugh, and other people always showed a love for life I never understood. There were moments when others looked more convincing than I did, and their eyes lit up in ways I didn’t comprehend. The more they smiled, the more I tried to mimic them, and the more numb I felt. I was failing. I felt as if I didn’t know how to fake it as well as other people did. By the time I was fifteen, I was crushed. I began to think that I was broken. I didn’t understand why I couldn’t keep up with anyone else's happiness and kept feeling down. Often I would ask “why are you so happy?” and would be met with shrugs. My level of joy seemed to match up to what other people called “content”. No one could give me the answers as to why I always felt like I was fighting to climb out of a pit of darkness. I was constantly struggling to breathe and wanted to just sleep my life away. I moved to Idaho for college by the age of eighteen, and the numbness turned into pain. It went from a black pit to an overpowering ocean, each wave crashing down upon me. I began to either cry constantly or feel numb. I could no longer even bother feeling content with my life. I wanted my life to end. At nineteen, I was no longer eating for anything other than barely surviving. My social life was nonexistent and I shut friends and family out. I wanted to be alone but was dying when I was alone. I started laying in the street at night, curling up, and okay at the thought of sleeping and being hit. My logic was that if I was hit, I could continue to sleep forever. Reed was my saving grace. My husband was the first one I opened up to about how I felt, not just the surface of it, but every ugly part I tried to shove down. He was the one who drove me to my first psychiatric appointment, letting me know that it was okay not to be okay. Within ten minutes, I was diagnosed with major depression. That was the day that would change my life forever. I started going to counseling and was put on daily medication. That was also the day I learned the importance of mental health. Depression was the worst and best thing to have been a part of me, and it is an ever-changing challenge. It helped me to realize it is okay not to be happy all the time, to be okay with feeling your feelings. I was able to make my dreams of being a nurse come true, and want to advocate for others struggling with mental health problems. I am becoming a nurse because I know what it is to struggle with wanting to live a normal, healthy life. I want to bring the same amount of love and care to others as I was shown. It is okay to not always be okay.

There are so many out there who use different substances to cope. They will use it to cope with depression, anxiety, stress, or any other mental handicap that affects their daily lives. So many are affected by this disorder, and most people wouldn't even realize they have it. They are living their lives needing something to help them to relax or to help cope with the struggles that come from life in general. Those individuals may be worried about the judgment of others, and are often ashamed and lie about their substance use. We live in a judgemental society these days, which in turn sometimes makes it hard to feel like we can look for help for our troubles and concerns. There are so many that will hit "rock bottom" or lose their life because of their substance abuse. Substance Use Disorder does not discriminate. The disorder doesn't care whether you're young or old, female or male, or anything in between. It affects the lives of over 20 million people in America. It shouldn't be something to be ashamed of or hidden, but unfortunately, it is. In today's society, we need to make it normalized to discuss disorders such as Substance Use Disorder to help people feel okay about looking for help. I am here to help. I hope that upon graduation and licensing I can make more of a change in the lives of those around me. Right now, I have been trying to build relationships and discussing with individuals about their health and the importance of seeking help with substance abuse. I have been a rock to help take care of outside stressors while they focus on getting well. As a nurse, I will have more opportunities to discuss with a higher volume of people about getting the help they may need to overcome and live with this disorder. I will be there to see them through treatment if needed. I can play a supporting role on their healthcare team, and be their cheerleader through the process. I see so many people who feel like they don't have the support they wish to get better. I want to help people choose to get better. To choose to live a happy life without needing to rely on substances to help them throughout the day. People need help. They need help without the judgment or criticism of others. People need help that comes from a place of love and care for their well-being. With my career, I will be a friend, a supporter, an educator, and a helping hand.

My dad is the hero that inspired me to work hard for what I believe in. He served in the US Army for several years, but the changes in him due to the military will forever inspire me to be like him. He taught me the basic principles of the military: sacrifice, duty, commitment, integrity and discipline. He's the person that taught me that making mistakes was a part of life, but as an imperfect person, I needed to own those mistakes while they were small. He taught me that the most honorable act in life is the one that would be of service to my fellow men. I believed that nursing was the career that could accomplish this lesson. Due to my father's time in the military, he wanted to make sure that if I was going to go to nursing school, I would need to know what I was getting myself into. Nursing is a special field that many end up leaving due to the difficulty that comes with the job. Like the military, it isn't simply a career, it's a lifestyle. It was discussed that I would need to sacrifice my comfort at times for the comfort of my patients, for their needs were to come first. It is a field in which I need to own any small mistake I make and learn from it quickly, or it could end up with someone's life on the line. It is an everyday duty, and I can't walk away before the work is done. As a nurse, your life is no longer just about yourself. It is about what is good for your patient, and it is about what is good for your team. Nursing is not a solo career. You are heavily relied on within your healthcare team, just as my dad had been relied on within his unit. He will often remind me that it was never a solo act. I was told that if I treated my career as a nurse as such, I would be letting my team and patient's down. Being a nurse includes sacrifice, commitment, discipline, and a lot of integrity. My dad is one of the most inspiring individuals I know. Although he isn't in the military as an active soldier, he still lives its values and has instilled them into his children. He has instilled what it means to do your duty, to love your country, and what it is to love its people.

Dark It's dark in here The blackness swallowing Hungry to make it end quickly Hurts It hurts in here Cradled up in a small ball Wishing the walls were broken down Breathe I can't breath in here Gasping with no sound My lungs filling with nothing but the dark Worms I can feel them in here Making my skin crawl I can't seem to make it stop Racing I can feel racing in here It beats hard against my chest Pulsating faster and more violent Cold It is too cold in here My skin crawling with the worms And yet it seems as if I can't feel anything but a cold numb Loud They are too loud in here The thoughts that muffle the peace The voices started out low but are screaming now Screaming I'm now screaming in here Can you here my desperation? I need to get out of here as quickly as I can You Where are you in here? I feel so alone and it seems That no one is willing to rescue me Me I don't like myself here Feeling everything and wanting none of it I want to feel numb like my cold, wiggling skin Metal It feels hard in here My fingers graze over it Is this my only way out of here? Desperate It reaks of desperation in here Smelling like dirty skin and rotten food If the smell gets worse, can I really bare it? Love No more love in here It's hard to love the voices and the smell The pain of the beating and yet I want to feel more More I need more out of here I need to feel some warmth and kindness As if my heart could slow the aggressive fight Reaching My arm is reaching for it in here I can't seem to make it stop Fingers wrapping around the cold metal, the trigger Cold The voices seem to scream louder It could be warm in here they seem to spit Shivers run down my spine as the metal pulls back Quiet It is now quiet in here I can feel the warmth run down my face I can now smile now that everything has calmed Calm It is calm in here I no longer have to live in this hell I call a head I no longer have to feel An escape I escaped from here I escaped from the thoughts and voices I escaped from what they call depression.