As a first-generation college student pursuing a degree in nursing, this journey means so much more than just earning a degree, it represents the dreams and sacrifices of my entire family, as well as my commitment to a future dedicated to helping others. Currently, I am working hard toward my dream career as a Cardiac Intensive Care Unit (Cardiac ICU) nurse. Growing up, I didn’t have anyone in my immediate family who could walk me through the college process or explain what it meant to pursue a career in healthcare. Every application, every exam, and every clinical shift has been something I’ve had to figure out on my own. While it’s been incredibly challenging, it’s also made me resilient, resourceful, and deeply committed to my goals. I chose nursing because I believe in being there for people when they need it the most. I’ve seen, firsthand, the difference that skilled and compassionate nurses make in moments of crisis, and I want to be that person for someone else, especially in the high-stakes environment of the Cardiac ICU unit. However, the path to that goal has not been easy. To afford tuition and living expenses, I currently work part-time while attending nursing school full-time and completing clinical rotations. Balancing these responsibilities is exhausting, and there are days when I feel like I’m running on empty. I often find myself studying late into the night after long shifts, knowing that I cannot afford to fall behind. Receiving this scholarship would ease that burden in a way that words can hardly capture. It would allow me to cut back on my part-time job and redirect that energy toward my clinical practice, academic studies, and personal growth. Instead of worrying about how to pay for textbooks or tuition each semester, I could spend more time learning critical care skills, asking questions in class, and showing up fully present for my patients during clinicals. This scholarship would not just help me financially; it would allow me to become a better nurse in the making. Beyond the financial support, receiving this scholarship would serve as a powerful vote of confidence. As a first-generation student, imposter syndrome is something I’ve often wrestled with. There are times when I question whether I belong or if I’m truly capable of succeeding in such a demanding field. But opportunities like this remind me that my hard work, my dedication, and my story matter. It tells me that others see potential in me, and that gives me the strength to keep pushing forward even on the hardest days. Ultimately, my goal is not only to succeed in my nursing school program and become a Cardiac ICU nurse, but to give back, to serve as a role model for others who come from similar backgrounds and may feel that their dreams are out of reach. I want to be someone who not only provides exceptional patient care, but also mentors future first-generation students and helps them believe in their own ability to succeed. This scholarship is a crucial step on that journey. It helps close the financial gap that stands between me and my degree. More than that, it gives me time to learn, grow, serve, and prepare for the career I’ve dreamed of for so long. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to be considered for this scholarship, and I promise to make the most of it, not just for myself, but for every patient I will one day care for.

"What you're experiencing isn't your fault," the therapist said gently. "You’re showing clear signs of clinical depression, and with the right support, you can feel better." Those words were meant to comfort me, but they hit like a wave I was not ready for. I sat there, stunned, in a room that suddenly felt too quiet. At 18 years old, I did not have the words to explain what I was feeling, only that every day felt heavier than the last and smiling took more energy than I could afford. I thought I was just overwhelmed or maybe a little dramatic, something that would eventually pass, like all the other phases I had gone through as a teen. Depression was not something people talked about in my family or community. I didn’t know it could happen to someone like me. Depression is often silent, but for Black women, it's also invisible. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, over 21 million adults in the United States had at least one major depressive episode in 2021. Yet Black women are less likely than white women to receive proper diagnosis or treatment. In fact, studies show that while Black adults are just as likely to experience mental health issues as white adults, only about one in three Black people who need mental health care receive it. Among women, the rates of untreated depression are even higher, and stigma plays a powerful role. For Black women, depression often shows up differently. It’s masked as strength, as self-reliance, as the ability to keep pushing forward no matter the cost. This “strong Black woman” stereotype, while meant to celebrate resilience, can prevent us from getting help. Many of us are taught to endure and not to express so that we don’t hold others up, even when we’re falling apart ourselves. This is why I care so deeply about mental health, particularly in the Black community. I know what it feels like to carry a pain that nobody can see. I, also, know the freedom that comes with finally naming it and asking for help. After my diagnosis, it took time, therapy, and support for me to understand that vulnerability is not weakness, it’s courage. I want to be part of changing how mental health is understood, treated, and talked about in my community. My personal journey led me to volunteering with a youth mental health outreach program in Washington, D.C. Through this program, I helped facilitate weekly group discussions at a local community center where teens could openly talk about anxiety, depression, peer pressure, and emotional wellbeing. I was, also, able to volunteer at a social service organization that provides care to people experiencing homelessness with acute medical needs in the DC area and interacting with the patients and nurses there allowed me to learn more about the type of impact I can make. Volunteering allowed me to be a frontline advocate for people who are struggling silently. My experiences have inspired me to pursue a career in nursing and continue my advocacy for mental health needs. I believe that every Black woman should feel safe to say, “I’m not okay,” and know that she’ll be met with support, not judgment. The support of this scholarship will allow me to continue my education and help build a future where mental health is prioritized, care is accessible, and no one has to suffer in silence like I once did.

I am interested in pursuing nursing because it called to me first. The day my aunt was rushed to the hospital, I was an undergrad Biology student studying for my exam the next day. I remember anxiously sitting in the emergency room, watching nurses move around. The nurse who was caring for my aunt at the time took the time to explain everything to us and she did not just treat my aunt but comforted our family. Those months of hospital visits, overnight stays, and prayers made me realize that I no longer wanted to study just the science of life, but I wanted to play my own role in preserving life. I think I knew then that nursing had found me. When I came to the United States as a child, I didn’t fully understand what was happening. I was disoriented, overwhelmed by the newness of everything, new country, new school, new people and most importantly new culture. I had to learn to navigate unfamiliar systems and overcome language and social barriers. But my aunt was our family’s anchor. She was the one who held our family together through uncertainty, working long hours and still finding time to guide, comfort, and encourage us. She lit the path for us to seek greener pastures, believing that despite the odds, we could build a better life here. Her strength shaped the way I see service and sacrifice and the impact one person can have on many. As a Black Nigerian immigrant and a first-generation college student, I have experienced firsthand the barriers and biases that can exist in healthcare. I’ve seen how language, culture, and race can create distance between patients and providers. I know what it feels like to not be heard, to be overlooked, to be spoken to in a way that feels distant or dismissive. I also know the power of representation and how it feels to be cared for by someone who truly understands your background, your story, and your fears. I want to bring that kind of empathy and cultural understanding into every patient interaction. Currently, I am a Master’s entry into nursing student at Johns Hopkins University, and I have gotten the chance to connect with patients and their families in ways that have deeply affirmed my decision to enter this profession. Whether holding a patient’s hand during a procedure or talking to their families about what comes next, I’ve witnessed how small acts of compassion can leave a lasting impact. Each interaction reminds me of my own journey and how crucial it is to feel seen, heard, and respected in vulnerable moments. Shadowing my clinical instructor has drawn me to want to become a cardiac ICU nurse. I want to become a Cardiac ICU nurse because I’m deeply motivated by the intensity and responsibility of critical care. I am particularly drawn to cardiac ICU because it is where attention to detail, rapid decision-making, and continuous monitoring are essential to saving lives. This scholarship would not only help me continue my education, but it would affirm the value of my voice and my perspective in a field that needs more diverse advocates. I am committed to becoming a nurse who not only treats illnesses but helps heal systems that have long left people like me behind. Thank you for considering my application.

The world of children is different and unique. My experiences as a child born with impaired breathing patterns affected my social and emotional life leading to persistent insecurity and internalized self doubt. I feared hospitals because watching children looking gloomy, helpless and in pain during my scheduled appointments at the Children's National Hospital saddened me. Despite this, my pediatrician and otolaryngologists provided a sense of safety and familiarity, always taking time to comfort and encourage me through each step of my care. What truly stood out, however, was the incredible team of nurses who supported me before, during, and after my adenoidectomy surgery at the age of ten. Their constant presence, gentle hands, warm smiles, and reassuring words made a lasting impact. They treated me with kindness that went beyond duty, and their compassion helped transform a frightening experience into a healing one. Witnessing their dedication inspired me deeply, and it was through them that I realized I wanted to become a nurse and offer that same level of care, empathy, and comfort to others in need. That early experience stayed with me, and as I grew older, I actively sought out opportunities to learn more about nursing and healthcare. One of these opportunities was returning to volunteer in the pediatrics ENT (ear, nose and throat) unit at Children's National Hospital, the very place where I first discovered my passion for nursing, and it gave me firsthand insight into the resilience, empathy, and critical thinking required in the healthcare field. I shadowed nurses, assisted with basic patient care, and attended health education seminars and each experience deepened my admiration for the profession. Another opportunity was volunteering at the nurse's station at Christ House, a social service organization that provided care to people experiencing homelessness with acute medical needs in the DC area. I was able to interact with nurses and learn more about the type of care that they provide the patients who are housed in Christ House. Through that experience, I was able to understand how important their daily responsibilities are and how much teamwork and communication go into providing consistent care. Currently, I am a nursing student at Johns Hopkins University, and I am grateful to be a student working in the community of Baltimore as I can explore the needs of the local population and gain hands-on experience in providing care to a diverse group of people. Throughout my clinical rotations and volunteer experience in the hospital, one of the specialties that have stood out to me is peds ENT. It is a specialty that I am deeply interested in as it reminds me of the times when I was a patient in the hospital and felt vulnerable and uncertain. Being in the hospital as a child allowed me to see firsthand the difference a nurse can make. Now standing on the other side as a nursing student, I feel a strong connection to the children and families in the peds ENT unit. I understand on a personal level, what it means to feel scared and rely on the people around you for strength. Overall, these experiences have not only affirmed my decision to pursue a nursing career but has inspired me to continue growing both academically and personally to become a compassionate and skilled healthcare provider. Thank you for considering me for the Wieland Nurse Appreciation Scholarship. With this scholarship, I will continue my dedication to patient care and making a positive impact in the healthcare field.

During my second semester as a nursing student at Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, I had a defining experience that allowed me to step into a leadership role while continuing to build my clinical confidence. One of my assigned patients was suffering from a Stage 4 sacral pressure wound, a condition requiring meticulous wound care, frequent repositioning, and thorough hygiene to prevent infection and promote healing. What made this experience especially impactful was that my assigned nurse entrusted me to take that lead in managing the wound care, under her close observation. Recognizing the complexity and seriousness of the wound, I knew I could not manage it alone. I took the initiative to organize a group of my peers to assist with various aspects of the patient's care, such as repositioning, cleaning, and ensuring the patient comfort before and after dressing changes. One of the biggest challenges was coordinating the team and overcoming my peers' hesitation, as some were unsure or intimidated by the severity of the wound. I addressed this by remaining calm and sharing what I had learned through the nurse and the patient. I made sure everyone felt supported and had a clear understanding of their role, emphasizing that proper teamwork would directly benefit the patient. With the guidance of my nurse, I performed the wound care while also ensuring that all safety and hygiene protocols were followed. I encouraged collaboration and communication among my peers, helping them feel more confident in their contributions. The result was not only improved care for the patient, but also a noticeable boost in confidence within our group of nursing students. After providing consistent care, I was able to join my nurse in speaking with the patient's family about how to continue managing the wound at home, medications and doctors' orders after discharge. I contributed by explaining the importance of pressure relief techniques and recognizing signs of infection. At that moment, I grew more confident in my ability to lead, advocate, and make a lasting impact in the field of healthcare. That experience taught me that leadership in nursing is not about doing everything yourself, it's about being accountable, creating a safe environment, and inspiring others to do their best. Moving forward, I plan to use these leadership skills throughout my career as a future CV-ICU nurse, whether I am guiding a team during a shift or advocating for patients needs in complex care situations. I want to make a positive difference by always putting patients at the center of care. I am applying for this scholarship because I am deeply committed to my future in nursing. Receiving this support would help relieve the financial burden of nursing school and bring me one step closer to my goal of becoming a clinical leader who drives patient-centered care and supports evidence-based practice. Thank you for considering me for this scholarship.

When I think about Team USA and who inspires me most, Ilona Maher is the first person who comes to mind; not just for her strength on the rugby field, but for who she is off of it. As a nursing student at Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, I see in Ilona a reflection of what I hope to become: someone who can balance intensity and compassion, professionalism and personality, ambition and authenticity. Ilona Maher isn't your typical Olympian. Yes, she's a fierce competitor on the U.S. Women's Rugby Sevens team, but she's also a registered nurse; a path I deeply relate to. While training full-time for the Olympics, she completed her nursing degree at Quinnipiac University, a challenge that anyone in nursing school knows is no small feat. Her ability to juggle clinicals, coursework, and elite athletics is nothing short of remarkable. When I feel overwhelmed by exams or long shifts, I think of Ilona pushing through grueling workouts after studying for anatomy or pharmacology; and I feel inspired to keep going. What stands out most about Ilona, though, is her heart. During the Tokyo Olympics, she became an unexpected social media icon by giving the world a behind-the-scenes look at Olympic Village with humor and vulnerability. Her TikToks weren't just funny, they were refreshing. She was real. She wasn't afraid to laugh at herself or share her nerves. That openness, especially coming from someone in a field as intense as both nursing and rugby, taught me that strength comes in many forms. As nurses, we care for others during their most vulnerable moments, and Ilona's example reminds me that being human; being real, is one of the greatest strengths we can bring to the job. She also talks often about body image, mental health, and what it's like to be a strong woman in a world that doesn't always celebrate muscles or confidence. As a nursing student who sometimes struggles with self-doubt, I find encouragement in how boldly Ilona owns who she is. She makes it okay to take up space, to speak up, and to be both kind and powerful. That message matters deeply, especially in healthcare, where confidence and compassion must go hand in hand. Ilona Maher inspires me to not shrink who I am to fit a mold. Like her, I want to show up fully; both in scrubs and in life. I want to be the kind of nurse who isn't just technically skilled, but also emotionally present, unapologetically authentic, and capable of making people smile even on the hardest days. That's what Ilona brings to Team USA, and that's what I hope to bring to every patient I care for. Winning this scholarship would allow me to follow in her footsteps; not onto a rugby field, but into a nursing career where I can lead with strength and serve with heart. It would ease the financial stress that often pulls my focus away from my studies, giving me the chance to fully commit to learning and growing into a nurse I'm meant to be. Like Ilona, I want to break barriers, lift others up, and show that you can be strong, smart, and sensitive all at once. Ilona Maher inspires me not just to be a better nurse, but to be a brave person, a role model, and a true game-changer. And with this Team USA Fan scholarship, I'll be one step closer to making that dream a reality.

If someone had told me a few years ago that heavy metal music would become one of the most grounding and inspiring forces in my life and help shape the kind of person I want to be, I would've laughed. Not out of disrespect, but because back then, I did not know what I wanted in life. I was drowning in the grind of being a student applying for college, the divorce of my parents, and the pressure to hold it all together. But sometimes, the things we least expect end up saving us, strengthening us, and even giving us direction. I was first introduced to heavy metal during my senior year of high school. There was this one friend; one of those rare intuitive people who can always see through your facade handed me her headphones and just said, "Listen." No explanation. The band was Power Trip, the song "Hornet's Nest." It was unlike anything I had ever heard before. It was fierce, energetic, fast-paced, heavy, and just charged with adrenaline. By the time, I had finished listening to the song, my heart was racing, and I finally felt like someone had put a voice to everything I'd been feeling for the past couple of weeks but couldn't name. It felt so raw and real. That single song changed my entire relationship with music, and I wanted to find out more. Seeing that I was interested my friend introduced me to more music/bands: Jag Panzer "The Deviant Chord" album, Trivium "The Sin and the Sentence" album, Mastodon, and the holy grail of metal music Metallica. In 2022, I went to my first metal concert: Tool live in Washington, D.C. The atmosphere, the riffs and the energy was something I do not think I can ever put into words; it was absolutely electrifying. Over the years, I've dedicated my time, energy, and heart to helping others, and was honored to receive the Presidential Volunteer Service Award in recognition of my commitment. I studied Biology in my undergraduate years, hoping to pursue a career in clinical research, and graduated summa cum laude with a GPA of 4.0. However, life took an unexpected turn when my aunt was diagnosed with Stage IV kidney disease. This experience led me to nursing and through it all, heavy metal remained a constant force in my life. Its raw emotion, intensity, and refusal to be silenced mirrored my own journey. Currently, I am a nursing student in the Nursing Master’s Program (MSN) at Johns Hopkins University. My future professional goal is to work in a high-acuity environment like the cardiovascular ICU where every second counts and the impact on patients' life is profound. This scholarship is not just about money (though yes, I am juggling part-time work, tuition bills and student loans). It's about being seen fully. It's about saying yes, a future CV-ICU nurse can also lose themselves in a doom metal show on a Saturday night at Union Stage and still walk into a patient's room on Monday morning with both skill and soul. Music gave me back my voice. Nursing is teaching me how to use it to fight for patients and for compassion in a system that often forgets it. So yeah, I love heavy metal. Not as an aesthetic, not as a hobby, but as a way of serving and thriving. Metal boldened me and I'lll carry that fire into every patient room, every overnight shift, every moment when someone needs a nurse who is not afraid to face the challenges ahead. I would be honored to receiving the Headband for Science scholarship as it would allow me to pursue my future career in nursing by helping to cover part of my tuition costs. As someone whose life has been shaped by both the intensity of metal and the compassion of service, this scholarship represents a unique merging of passion and purpose. I am deeply honored to be considered for this scholarship.

I am a 23-year-old MSN entry-into-nursing student at Johns Hopkins University. I did not choose nursing at first; in fact, I earned my bachelor’s degree in biology with plans to go into clinical research. My journey into nursing began when my aunt was diagnosed with stage IV chronic kidney disease (CKD) due to polycystic kidney disease (PKD). Suddenly, hospitals became like a second home, while speaking with doctors and nurses about next treatment procedures/options and comforting the family as the oldest child soon became the norm. The team of nurses' presence, skills and patience were truly admirable, especially considering my family’s endless questions, which would have driven anyone crazy. But the nurses smiled and reassured us it was okay, though I’m pretty sure they deserved a medal (or at least a long coffee break) afterward! Moments like those, along with the small acts of kindness I witnessed, have stayed with me and showed me the true impact nurses have. Looking back, I may not have realized it at that time, but a part of me knew I wanted to become that same source of strength and support for others. In 2023, I applied to the Johns Hopkins nursing program and was honored to be accepted into the spring cohort. Since joining, my understanding of what it means to be a nurse has deepened, and it has motivated me to pursue a path where I can contribute to high-acuity care, specifically in the cardiovascular ICU setting. In my second semester, I got more experience in clinical settings by shadowing my clinical preceptor during her evening shift as a CV-ICU nurse. I remember the first time I stood in an ICU unit while my instructor was giving me a tour, it was both intense and interesting. The atmosphere was quiet with the monitors beeping steadily, IV pumps humming, and the ventilators rhythmically hissing; in that moment, every sound had meaning and every second mattered. Shadowing my preceptor allowed me to witness central lines, arterial lines, chest tubes, and multiple medication drips in real time, all managed with careful precision and expertise. By the end of my time on the unit, I knew that I had witnessed what nursing at the highest level looks like and I was inspired to be an ICU nurse. Following my first experience on the ICU floor, I continued shadowing my preceptor when she took on shifts on the ICU unit, and I learned more about devices and procedures like left ventricular assist device (LVADs) and coronary artery bypass grafts (CABG) which are very important for cardiac patients. As I move forward in my nursing school journey, pursuing a career as a CV-ICU nurse has been a goal I’ve worked toward. From my second semester onward, I was drawn to the complexities and intensity of cardiac care and knew I wanted to be a part of a team that manages critically ill patients with advanced cardiovascular needs. During clinical rotations, I sought every opportunity to care for patients with cardiac diagnoses. On Med-surg and PCU/IMC floors, I made it a point to request to be paired with nurses caring for post-MI (myocardial infarction), heart failure (HF), or post-op cardiac surgery patients. Alongside my clinical experience, I’ve gained hands-on practice in interpreting EKGs, identifying abnormal cardiac rhythms, and routinely conducting focused cardiovascular assessments. These clinical experiences prepare me for a future career in the CV-ICU and this scholarship would support my continued growth and help me serve patients and families with the same dedication that first inspired me.

"An Immigrant's Journey: From Struggle to Strength in Nursing" As an immigrant, my journey has been anything but conventional. Born post humous in a small village with limited opportunities, I quickly learned that every step forward came with a price. My family left everything behind in search of a better future. The idea of "better" wasn't just about economic stability or comfort; it was about hope, education, and the chance to make a difference in a world that seemed overwhelming. I vividly remember the day we arrived in the United States. My mom, determined to make our lives better, worked long hours in low-paying jobs while always prioritizing my education. I remember her face, etched with exhaustion yet filled with pride, as she pushed me to study, to dream, and to seize the opportunities she had never had. The weight of her sacrifices rested heavily on my shoulders, but it also fueled my ambition. I wanted to make her proud; not just through success, but by proving her sacrifices were worth it. However, the path wasn't easy. The language barrier was an immediate challenge. I struggled to communicate, feeling isolated in a sea of unfamiliar faces. I remember my first day of school, trying to understand the culture and the language while navigating a different education system. But in that moment, I realized something vital: my resilience could become my strength. The same perseverance that had carried me through years of uncertainty would now propel me toward my dreams. In high school, I discovered my passion for healthcare and the immense power of nursing to change lives. It wasn't just the science or technical aspects of nursing that intrigued me; it was the ability to connect with patients on a human level, offering comfort and support when they needed it most. I knew this was where I wanted to make my mark. I pursued nursing with the same drive that had carried me through the challenges of immigration. Over time, though, I realized that my ambition extended beyond becoming a nurse. I wanted to use nursing as a platform to make a broader impact on healthcare. Nursing, like many fields, requires not only technical expertise but also an understanding of diverse patient populations; something I felt uniquely equipped to address, given my immigrant background. I've seen firsthand the challenges underrepresented groups face in accessing quality healthcare, and I want to change that. My goal is to be a nurse who not only provides compassionate care but also advocates for marginalized communities, working to ensure healthcare systems are more inclusive and accessible to all. Throughout my academic journey, I have taken leadership roles in various settings, from organizing health education workshops for underserved communities to volunteering in local clinics like Christ House in Washington, D.C. These experiences have shown me the power of nursing in shaping a more equitable healthcare system. The financial burden of higher education is something many immigrants' families face, including my own. But I've learned to see it as another challenge to overcome. With the same grit that helped my family build a life here, I will continue to work hard and tap into every available resource. Every step I take, no matter how small, will be a tribute to my parents' sacrifices and a testament to the strength of immigrants who continue to push forward, no matter the obstacles.

The Ripple Effect: How My Aunt’s Kidney Disease Shaped My Life When kidney disease invaded the life of my aunt Rachel, it did not just steal her health; it also reshaped the very fabric of our family’s existence. The matriarch, once vibrant and full of life, now struggled to breathe under the weight of her own body. The journey we embarked upon together was filled with tears, frustration, and heartache, but it also taught me the true meaning of resilience, sacrifice, and love. It started innocuously, with complaints of swelling in her feet and an occasional difficulty in passing urine. I initially brushed it off as part of the aging process, but as days turned into weeks, I saw her grow more lethargic, her ankles bloating like balloons, and her once radiant face becoming more pale and tired. The breaking point came when she could not fit her shoes anymore and the swelling was everywhere in her legs. The doctor’s diagnosis was like a bolt of lightning: “chronic kidney disease, stage four.” I was stunned and overwhelmed. In a world where we often see health as something to be taken for granted, the cruel reality of kidney failure forced me to confront the reality and fragility of life. Suddenly, simple things like breathing without a struggle or walking without pain were luxuries. I saw my aunt’s spirit bend under the weight of dialysis treatments, frequent hospital visits and a constant restriction on her life. Her diet had to be carefully controlled, and even something as innocent as a salad could send her potassium levels into dangerous territory. However, what hit hardest was not just the physical toll; it was the constant battle with insurance companies. My aunt’s health insurance, which we believed would be our safety net, turned out to be a cruel paradox. When she needed dialysis, a lifeline to keep her alive, the insurance company refused to cover the treatment because the provider was out of network. I spent countless hours on the phone, trying to negotiate, explaining how urgent the situation was. Their response was always “sorry we can’t help.” Each phone call left me feeling more and more powerless. Watching my aunt’s health deteriorate because of something we couldn’t control was one of the most painful experiences of my life. But amidst the suffering, something beautiful emerged: unity. Our family rallied around her and the shared pain brought us closer. We cooked meals according to her strict dietary needs, organized transportation for her appointments, and sat beside her during her long nights with the dialysis machine. I cherished those moments with her, the quiet conversations, the laughs we shared, and even the tender moments when she’d fall asleep with my hand resting gently on hers. The emotional journey was nothing short of transformative. I learned the true power of empathy, sacrifice, and unconditional love. Kidney disease did not just affect my aunt, it altered me in ways I never expected and despite our efforts we lost her. Losing her left me with a sense of loss that words can’t fully capture, and it also drained our family’s spirit, leaving an aching void in our hearts that no amount of time can heal. Although my aunt is no longer here, that experience, painful as it was, gave me a deeper understanding of what it means to be family and molded me into someone who values each moment knowing how easily it can all change

“From Burn to Care: My Path to Nursing” Thanksgiving is one of my favorite times of the year, full of family, fun, and amazing food. Every year, I take on the challenge of preparing the holiday feast, which I eagerly accept. However, one Thanksgiving, my passion for cooking led to an extraordinary encounter that changed my life forever. As I worked carefully in the kitchen, juggling multiple dishes, I reached too close to the oven to check the turkey, and my hand burned horribly. The agony was severe and urgent, and I went to the hospital in a state of panic and anxiety. I had no idea that this traumatic experience would lead me to seek a profession in nursing. When I arrived at the hospital, I was met by a nurse whose demeanor stuck with me. Despite the busy setting of the emergency room, she approached me calmly, talked in a soothing tone, and assured me that everything would be alright. She described the treatment procedure, and meticulously cleansed and bandaged the burn. Her compassion and expertise shone through, and I realized that nursing was about more than simply medical processes. It was about establishing a human connection, assuaging concerns, and providing care that went beyond physical healing. In my moment of vulnerability, the nurse's attitude motivated me to pursue a career in nursing and to be the kind of person who could help others feel listened, respected, and cared for. This experience was pivotal, but it was not the only reason that influenced my decision to study nursing. Throughout my life, I've watched the suffering of loved ones dealing with health issues, particularly those living in underprivileged places with limited access to medical care. I watched how low healthcare access affected my family and friends, and I knew I wanted to help change that. According to the World Health Organization, over 50% of the global population still lacks access to basic health services. This statistic is startling and shows the vital need for healthcare professionals who are skilled, empathetic, and dedicated to improving access to care for those in greatest need. As I pursue my nursing degree at Johns Hopkins University, I am extremely committed to tackling the issue of healthcare accessibility, especially for marginalized and underrepresented groups. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the differences in global healthcare systems, with vulnerable communities facing larger barriers to care. This has motivated my desire to work in places where I may have a significant influence, such as low-income communities where healthcare access is frequently limited. I want to contribute to the solution by advocating for better healthcare policies, offering direct care, and educating communities about preventive actions that can improve overall well-being. Winning this scholarship would allow me to further my study and get the knowledge needed to make a difference. With this training, I hope to give back to my community by becoming a caring, knowledgeable nurse who offers outstanding care and advocates for people who do not have access or insurance to healthcare system. I feel that nursing will allow me to be a force for positive change in the lives of others. The Thanksgiving burn, which brought me anguish at first, became the trigger for a larger purpose in my life. This event, together with my life experiences, has ignited my interest in nursing, and I'm excited to apply my education and skills to serve others. This scholarship would be the first step in making that dream a reality, and I am determined to make a significant difference in healthcare, just as that nurse did in my life.

Breaking Stigma, Building Hope: My Path to Mental Health Care The heavy, locked door slammed shut behind me, and I could hear the echo of my footsteps. The dimly lit hallway stretched ahead like the beginning of a horror movie – dark and foreboding, with only a single light at the end of the corridor highlighting the figures of the security guards stationed at each patient’s door. The lobby was eerily quiet, and the nurse’s station was empty. This was my first impression walking into the psychiatric unit and it was a moment that left me deeply intrigued wondering if I would witness the powerful intersection of mental health and human resilience in a place like this. As a nursing student at Johns Hopkins University, I had the opportunity to work in a psych unit and that experience profoundly shaped my understanding of mental health and my career aspirations. Prior to this, I had always been aware of the broad impact mental illness has on individuals and families, but it was not until I started working closely with patients in the psych unit that I truly grasped the complexity of their struggles and the depth of care they required. I witnessed firsthand how mental health issues can affect a person’s sense of self-worth, their relationship with others, and their ability to function in day-to-day life. One patient made a profound impact on me during my time in the psychiatric unit. He was an intelligent and articulate person whose words were clouded by frustration and sadness. He shared that he had stopped taking his medications because he didn’t want to feel dependent on them. He just wanted to “feel normal,” believing that he could control his symptoms without medication but, without that support, his condition spiraled out of control and eventually, he resorted to drugs hoping to numb the pain. His overdose was a cry for help, a desperate attempt to escape the emotions and struggle he felt. His experience highlighted the deep stigma surrounding mental health – the way it can make a person feel weak or broken for seeking help or relying on medication. I saw how the mental health system, while designed to help, sometimes fails to address the underlying emotions and beliefs that patients carry about their condition. His words reinforced my belief that mental health care must not only focus on treating symptoms but also on healing the whole person, mind and spirit. Working with a diverse group of patients ignited my passion for the mental health field and the role that nursing care plays in the continuum of mental health and mental illnesses. I became deeply interested in the psychiatric aspects of their condition – what drives their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors and how can I, as a future nurse, better support their mental well-being. In class, I found myself wanting to learn more about therapeutic interventions, the psychological principles behind various mental health conditions like schizophrenia and how a holistic approach could lead to a better outcome for patients. My experiences on the psych unit have cemented my belief that mental health is just as crucial as physical health. I now aspire to become a psych nurse who not only provides nursing care to patients but also help to bridge the gap between physical and mental health and reduce stigma that often prevents people from seeking help. Through a career that blends nursing and mental health, I aim to make a lasting impact in the mental health field – offering not just care, but a voice to those whose struggles are too often silenced.

Mamalee Milton Making Community Healthcare a Priority When I slipped and fell in the hallway during school hours, I had a swelling knee sprain and realized how hard it was to treat an injury. In order to give the injuries time to heal, I had to walk with crutches, miss weeks of school, and receive treatment at the hospital. Resilience and compassion were instilled in me by my hospital experience, which also affected my future professional path as a medical surgical nurse. I was able to connect with other patients who were residents of my community as well as my healthcare team. I began my academic journey as a biology major in order to develop an understanding of human anatomy and to acquire foundational information that would help me in my future nursing job when it comes to patient care management, diagnosis, and therapy. I received invaluable experience working as a volunteer at Christ House's Nurse's Station during my undergraduate years. Christ House is a Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit that offers compassionate care to individuals who are homeless and have urgent medical needs. I got to know the patients in this role by interacting with them respectfully and learning about their need for care as they shared their life stories, obstacles, and issues with nurses who provided comprehensive healthcare. As part of my job, I helped patients by creating a timetable that would remind them to take their medications and to call their families and friends for emotional support. In addition to teaching me empathy and compassion, this experience strengthened my interpersonal skills, increased my sense of wellness, and earned me the President's Volunteer Service Award. With just 55% of nurses working in medical surgical nursing in the US, it also strengthened my resolve to pursue a career in this sector and gave me a better knowledge of the human condition. As I am a nursing student at the Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, the medical surgical nursing field will provide me with the opportunity to have a comprehensive knowledge base to care for patients with numerous comorbidities, or who are recovering from or preparing for surgery. My career goals are to become certified to validate my knowledge and skills to practice higher standards of care to people in need of healthcare both inside and outside of my community, and to maximize my efficiency in clinical, and the nursing field by growing and improving my skills to stay competitive. My family and community have shown me love and support at various points during my life and academic career, and I am dedicated to continuing on the path of knowledge. Given my tenacity and natural ability for success, receiving the Dashanna K. McNeil Memorial Scholarship would enhance my academic experience and my time in college.

Mamalee Milton Eligibility Requirements Do Not Define Me. I chose to live my American dream without eligibility requirements hindering my progress because I decide to create an innovative space for myself where I thrive, appreciate the community I live in, and extend a loving hand to those in need. Like other dreamers, I have faced a lot of challenges due to my status either academically or socially. The most outstanding rejection theme being eligibility criteria and to some extent ‘thank you for applying’. I live with my mother who works a cash job as a kitchen staff in a restaurant. Due to her ill health, I feel obligated to help financially to offset some of the bills. However, I find that no matter how hard we try, our family struggles with poverty and our future seems uncertain. There are days where I must stand in a long line to get a bag of groceries from the food bank; not what we crave or would love to eat, but just to keep the hunger at bay to survive the day. Moreover, the memory of my mother being taken to court because we did not have enough money for rent was disheartening. This was because our status and eligibility criteria prevented our family from accessing resources in the community. I felt like we were walking in circles and my potential was limited. After being rejected severally from paid internships, I did not allow eligibility criteria to define me, but went ahead and applied to community services and unpaid internships with organizations that were welcoming to dreamers, and I opted for valuable experience to advance my academic career, and this earned me the President’s Volunteer Service Award. I volunteered at the Nurse’s station at Christ House, an organization in the Washington, D.C. that provides compassionate care to people experiencing homelessness with acute medical needs. In this position, I was able to interact with nurses as well as the patients and understood their need for care as they shared their stories and struggles in life. I was assigned to make a schedule to remind patients to take their medications and to place a call for them to reach their family members for emotional support. This experience taught me resilience, awakened my compassionate mind, and helped me to live wisely in good and bad times. The attending nurses provided quality care that inspired me to seek a career in nursing; and currently, I am a nursing student at Johns Hopkins University. I choose to live my American dream on a solid foundation to support my desire to help others find specialist support for their healthcare needs in my community. Since healthcare practices keeps evolving, my professional goals are to optimize my efficiency in the nursing field by developing and improving my skills to remain competitive, provide quality care to my patients, and get certified to validate my knowledge and skills to practice higher standards of care to people in need of healthcare. I have the determination to walk in the path of knowledge. My community and my family have demonstrated their support towards me at different levels of my life and educational journey. Using my college training to give back is one of the ways I anticipate showing my heartfelt appreciation for the love, support, and encouragement I received growing up. If awarded the American Dream Scholarship, it will positively impact my college experience and help me to focus and finish my degree. I am determined, I am born ready.

Reevaluating my career as a nurse As I waited for my summer research Principal Investigator (PI) to meet me at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg for my laboratory tour, my eyes viewed the four pillars of John Hopkins excellence: Johns Hopkins University Hospital, Ross Medical Building, Bloomberg School of Public Health, and Hopkins School of Nursing. I was thrilled to learn that the School of Nursing was right next door because, as a biology major, I have always had a fascination for the medical industry. My desire to launch my healthcare career was reawakened by the memory of my time spent volunteering at Christ House's nursing station, catering to the requirements of ill homeless men who live in the Washington, D.C. region and endure everyday hardships. Between my senior years of college as a biology major, I spent some of my weekend’s volunteering at Christ House's nursing station. I had the opportunity to speak with and spend time with older patients who wanted to share their experiences as well as reach out to family members for support. I realized that these men, who are a part of my community, needed compassion and care; and I made myself available to assist with calls to family members and setting up a regular routine to remind them to take their medications. I gained knowledge, teamwork skills, and a new perspective on the comprehensive care provided by the nursing station to patients while interacting with the nurses, and this helped me to build a patient as well as a sympathetic personality. Moreover, I will never forget the feeling of helplessness and lack of knowledge I experienced when my aunt was rushed to the hospital. She was in a serious condition and later, diagnosed with kidney disease and complicated breathing problems. The attending nurses provided quality care that inspired me to seek a career in nursing as I never wanted to be unprepared and helpless again. I wish my aunt was alive today to support me in my journey to become a nurse. I decided to apply to the Johns Hopkins School of Nursing because I felt I needed a solid foundation to support the development of my communication skills and my desire to help others find specialist support for their healthcare needs in my community. Since healthcare practices keeps evolving, my professional goals are to optimize my efficiency in the nursing field by develop and improve my skills to remain competitive, provide quality care to my patients, and get certified to validate my knowledge and skills to practice higher standards of care to people in need of healthcare. Currently, I have been accepted into the Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing 2024 cohort, and obtaining the Joseph Joshua Searor Memorial Scholarship will assist me financially to achieve my dreams, help people feel heard, understood, and validated regardless of their experiences and cultural background, while advocating for better health outcomes.