My name is Mariya Martino, and I am choosing a career in nursing because caring for others has always felt like more than just a job to me, it feels like my purpose. I was raised by a strong single mother who taught me resilience, compassion, and the importance of showing up for others. I am also strong in my faith and my love for Jesus, and that shapes how I treat people. From a young age, I learned that kindness, patience, and presence can make a real difference in someone’s life, especially during difficult moments. Those values are what led me to nursing and continue to motivate me every day. I first knew I wanted to be a nurse after watching several family members battle serious illnesses like cancer and heart disease. Even when there was nothing more that could be done medically, those nurses still brought comfort, dignity, and calm to my loved ones and my family. Watching how they cared for people during their most vulnerable moments made me realize that nursing isn’t just about medicine, it’s about being there emotionally, mentally, and physically for someone when they need it most. I am especially drawn to pediatric nursing because of the unique impact nurses can have on children and their families. Children are incredibly resilient, but they are also vulnerable and often scared in medical settings. A kind nurse can completely change a child’s experience in the hospital by offering reassurance, comfort, and a sense of safety. I love the idea of being someone a child can trust during a time that feels overwhelming and unfamiliar. I have volunteered with children through community and church programs, and those experiences showed me how meaningful it is to support kids not just physically, but emotionally. Whether it was helping with activities, offering encouragement, or simply sitting and listening, I saw how much children respond to patience, positivity, and genuine care. I also saw how deeply parents rely on nurses for guidance, reassurance, and advocacy. Pediatric nursing stands out to me because it allows me to care for both the child and their family as a whole. My faith plays a big role in why I feel called to work with children. I believe every child deserves to feel loved, protected, and valued, no matter their circumstances. Jesus’ teachings about compassion and service inspire me to treat every child as if they were my own. I want to be a nurse who not only provides excellent clinical care, but also brings light, hope, and comfort into a child’s life when they are facing illness or injury. The difference I hope to make as a pediatric nurse is simple but meaningful. I want to be someone who eases fear, advocates for children who cannot always speak for themselves, and supports families through some of the hardest moments of their lives. I want to help children heal not just physically, but emotionally, by creating a safe and caring environment. Nursing gives me the opportunity to combine my compassion, faith, and education into a career that truly serves others. I am choosing nursing because it allows me to live out my values every day. I am choosing pediatric nursing because it gives me the chance to protect, comfort, and uplift children when they need it most. That is the kind of nurse I am working to become, and that is the impact I hope to make on one child, one family, and one moment of care at a time.

My name is Mariya Martino, and I am a nursing student who chose healthcare not just as a career, but as a calling. I was raised by a strong single mother who taught me resilience, compassion, and the importance of showing up for others, even when life is hard. I am also strong in my faith and my love for Jesus, and that shapes how I live my life and how I treat people. From a young age, I learned that care, patience, and kindness can change someone’s entire experience during their most difficult moments. Those values are what led me to healthcare and continue to motivate me every day. I first knew I wanted to be a nurse after watching several family members battle serious illnesses like cancer and heart disease. Some survived, and some didn’t. I spent many hours in hospitals and around hospice nurses, and I saw how much their presence mattered. Even when there was nothing more that could be done medically, those nurses still showed up with compassion, dignity, and calm. They supported not only my loved ones but my entire family. Seeing the comfort they brought during such painful moments made me realize that healthcare is not just about treating symptoms, it’s about caring for the whole person. That is where my passion for nursing, especially hospice and geriatric care, truly began. My cultural background and faith have also played a huge role in shaping my goals. In my culture, elders are deeply respected, and family is everything. Being Caribbean taught me to value community, resilience, and emotional strength. My faith taught me to love others the way Jesus loves us, with patience, humility, and compassion. These values influence how I approach my education and how I hope to practice as a nurse. I want my patients to feel heard, respected, and safe, not rushed or treated like just another chart number. Over the years, I have volunteered with elders, children, and individuals experiencing homelessness. Each experience has reinforced my belief that healthcare extends far beyond hospitals and clinics. Whether I was reading to seniors, helping kids with activities, or handing out meals and hygiene kits to people living on the streets, I saw how powerful simple kindness can be. These experiences confirmed that I am exactly where I am meant to be and that my purpose is rooted in service. The difference I want to make is simple but meaningful. I want to be the nurse who sits with a patient when they are scared, who listens when they feel unheard, and who advocates for them when they don’t have the strength to speak for themselves. I want to bring dignity and comfort to people at the most vulnerable moments of their lives, especially the elderly and those at the end of life. Long-term, I hope to become a nurse practitioner so I can expand my impact, improve access to care, and serve underserved populations more fully. I don’t see healthcare as just a profession. I see it as a responsibility and a privilege. My goal is to combine my education, faith, and life experiences to provide compassionate, patient-centered care. I want my patients to leave interactions with me feeling valued, supported, and less alone. That is the difference I hope to make—one patient, one family, and one moment of care at a time.

My name is Mariya Martino, and I am a nursing student whose life has been shaped by faith, family, and a deep desire to serve others. I was raised by a strong single mother who taught me resilience and compassion. I am strong in my faith and my love for Jesus, and that guides how I live and how I treat people. Growing up, I watched several family members battle serious illnesses like cancer and heart disease. Spending so much time in hospitals and around hospice nurses showed me how powerful compassion can be, even when medicine has done all it can. That is where my love for caring for others especially older adults began, and why I hope to work in hospice or geriatric nursing before eventually becoming a nurse practitioner. Service has always been part of my life. I’ve volunteered with elders, children, and individuals experiencing homelessness, and each experience has taught me something different about empathy and humility. Whether it was reading to seniors, helping kids with activities, or handing out meals and hygiene kits to people living on the streets, I learned that everyone just wants to feel seen and valued. These experiences strengthened my belief that small acts of kindness can truly change lives. One of the most meaningful ways I served my community was by caring for an elderly neighbor during a difficult time in her life. She lived alone after losing her husband, and her health was declining. I noticed she was struggling with daily tasks and seemed isolated. At first, I would stop by to check on her and bring groceries. Over time, those visits became a routine. I helped organize her medications, cooked simple meals, cleaned her apartment, and took her to doctor’s appointments. But more than anything, I listened to her stories and made sure she didn’t feel alone. One day, she was having trouble breathing and was too scared to call for help because she didn’t want to be a burden. I sat with her, held her hand, and encouraged her to let me take her to urgent care. While we waited, she told me, “I don’t know what I would do without you.” That moment reminded me how invisible people can feel when they’re aging and alone, and how powerful simple presence and kindness really are. Serving her changed me. I learned patience, responsibility, and the importance of showing up consistently, even when it’s emotionally heavy. My faith teaches me to love others the way Jesus loves us, and that experience showed me what that looks like in real life. Care isn’t about big gestures, it’s about showing up, listening, and reminding people they matter. I carry these lessons into everything I do, supporting classmates, helping my mom, volunteering when I can, and preparing for my future as a nurse. I see servitude as a way of life, not a one-time act. My goal is to continue serving my community through nursing by advocating for vulnerable populations, especially the elderly, and by being someone others can depend on when life feels overwhelming. That is the kind of impact I hope to make.

1. The moment I knew I wanted to be a nurse I knew I wanted to be a nurse from a young age after watching several family members go through serious illnesses like cancer and heart disease. I spent a lot of time in hospitals and around hospice nurses, and I saw how much their presence mattered. Even when treatment options were limited, those nurses still brought comfort, patience, and dignity to my loved ones. Seeing how they supported not just the patient but our whole family made a big impact on me. That’s when I realized nursing isn’t only about medicine, it’s about being there for people during the hardest moments of their lives. 2. What being Caribbean means to me and how it will shape me as a nurse Being Caribbean means growing up in a culture that is big on family, respect, and looking out for each other. Elders are especially valued, and that’s part of why I feel drawn to working with the geriatric population and hospice care. My culture taught me to be warm, patient, and resilient, even when things are stressful. As a nurse, I know this background will shape how I treat my patients with empathy, strong communication, and a deep sense of responsibility for their well-being. I see my patients as people first, not just tasks on a chart. 3. What I’d want my future patients to know about me If my future patients could see this, I’d want them to know that I truly care about them as individuals. I want them to feel heard, respected, and safe when they’re in my care. I may not always have all the answers, but I will always listen, be honest, and advocate for them. I want them to know that I’ll treat them with the same kindness and dignity that I’d want for my own family members. 4. What care means to me To me, care means more than just doing tasks or giving medications. It means showing up emotionally as well as physically. It’s listening without rushing, being patient when someone is scared or frustrated, and making sure they don’t feel alone. Care is about treating people with dignity, even in their most vulnerable moments. That’s the kind of nurse I’m working to become.

Financial peace is important to me because it means finally being able to live without a constant knot of worry in my chest. For as long as I can remember, money has never just been about numbers on a screen; it has been about fear, uncertainty, and hard choices. I grew up watching the stress of finances spill into every part of life, from tense conversations about bills to the quiet anxiety of not knowing what the next month would look like. That kind of stress stays with you. It teaches you to think small, to play it safe, and to put your dreams on hold because survival always comes first. To me, financial peace means freedom from that weight. It means waking up without panic, planning for the future without fear, and finally believing that my goals are possible. As a nursing student, financial stress has shaped nearly every decision I’ve made. I have had to choose between buying textbooks and paying bills. I have had to turn down opportunities that could have helped my career because I simply could not afford the time or money they required. Instead of focusing fully on my studies and my passion for healthcare, I often find myself distracted by questions like, “How am I going to pay for this?” or “What happens if something goes wrong?” It is exhausting to constantly feel like one unexpected expense could knock everything down. I want to give my whole heart to becoming a great nurse, but financial stress makes that feel like an uphill battle every single day. If I had no financial stressors today, I would make so many decisions differently. First, I would fully invest in my education without hesitation or guilt. I would take a full course load, sign up for extra certifications, and attend workshops that could help me grow into a stronger, more confident nurse. I would spend more time volunteering in healthcare settings, especially with geriatric and hospice patients, which is where my heart truly is. On a personal level, financial peace would allow me to finally slow down and take care of myself. Instead of living in constant “survival mode,” I could focus on my mental health, my physical health, and my relationships. I could support my family in ways I currently can’t and stop feeling guilty for not being able to do more. I would begin saving for the future instead of living month to month, always hoping nothing goes wrong. I would start planning for long-term goals like graduate school and becoming a nurse practitioner one day, instead of feeling like those dreams are too far away to even talk about. Looking ahead, financial peace would completely change my future. I would feel free to choose work that aligns with my values—like hospice or geriatric care—rather than chasing the highest-paying job out of fear. I would be able to pursue advanced education without the crushing anxiety of debt and focus on becoming the kind of provider who shows up with compassion, patience, and presence. More than anything, financial peace would give me dignity, stability, and the ability to build a life based on purpose instead of pressure. That is why it matters so deeply to me and why this scholarship would not just help me financially, but emotionally and spiritually as well. It would give me the chance to finally breathe and believe in a future I’ve been working so hard for.

Mental health is something I have come to understand as deeply connected to every area of my life, especially while pursuing my education. Living with ADHD and anxiety has made school both rewarding and challenging. There are days when my focus feels sharp and my energy is high, but there are also moments when distractions, racing thoughts, or overwhelming stress make it difficult to keep up with the demands of being a student. Acknowledging how my mental health impacts me has been the first step in learning how to manage it and grow stronger in both academics and my personal life. Academically, ADHD and anxiety can sometimes feel like opposite forces pulling me in different directions. My ADHD makes it hard to concentrate on long lectures or assignments that don’t immediately capture my interest, while my anxiety convinces me that if I don’t get everything perfect, I’ve failed. Together, these challenges can create a cycle of procrastination followed by stress, which can affect my confidence and performance in class. For example, there have been times when I stayed up far too late finishing an assignment I put off because I couldn’t focus, only to feel drained and anxious the next day during class discussions. In my personal life, these challenges also play a role. Anxiety sometimes makes social situations feel intimidating, and my ADHD can make it difficult to stay organized with responsibilities outside of school. This can leave me feeling overwhelmed, as though I’m constantly juggling more than I can carry. However, what I’ve learned is that my mental health doesn’t have to hold me back—it just means I need to be more intentional about the way I approach life. Over time, I have developed strategies to make my mental health a priority. One of the most important steps has been creating structure for myself. I use planners, reminders, and digital calendars to break down assignments into smaller, more manageable tasks. Having visual checklists not only keeps me on track but also gives me a sense of accomplishment with each step I complete. I’ve also learned the importance of self-care and balance. Instead of ignoring my anxiety, I’ve practiced coping skills such as deep breathing, mindfulness, and short breaks when I feel overwhelmed. Exercise and staying active are also important tools for me, as physical activity helps release stress and improves my ability to focus. In addition, I try to maintain a consistent sleep schedule, because I’ve noticed how much rest directly affects both my mood and my concentration. Another critical step has been reaching out for support when I need it. Whether it’s talking to a counselor, connecting with classmates for study groups, or confiding in family and friends, I’ve realized that I don’t have to manage everything alone. Having a support system helps me put challenges in perspective and reminds me that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Although living with ADHD and anxiety presents daily challenges, it has also taught me resilience, creativity, and empathy. I’ve learned to work harder to stay organized, to advocate for myself, and to appreciate the progress I make even if it isn’t perfect. Most importantly, I’ve realized that caring for my mental health is just as important as completing any assignment or test. By prioritizing it, I’m not only improving my academic performance but also building habits that will carry into my personal life and future career.

Obstacles are rarely comfortable in the moment, but I have come to realize that they often leave behind the most valuable lessons. One of the greatest challenges I faced was during my transition to college, when I made the difficult decision to move to a different state in pursuit of both academic and personal growth. What I thought would be an exciting fresh start quickly turned into one of the hardest setbacks I have ever experienced, and yet it shaped my character in ways that continue to influence my goals and perseverance today. In January, I moved from South Carolina to North Carolina to begin school. I left behind the comfort of family, familiar surroundings, and the stability of a steady job. At first, I told myself that discomfort was just part of the process of growing up and becoming independent. But as the semester progressed, I struggled with a combination of challenges I hadn’t expected: homesickness, financial stress, and difficulty adjusting to an unfamiliar environment. I felt isolated, and my academic performance began to reflect the strain I was under. Instead of thriving in my new surroundings, I found myself feeling defeated and questioning my decision to move at all. By the end of that semester, I made the tough choice to return to South Carolina. At the time, it felt like admitting failure. I had invested so much effort and money into the move, only to come back home with a sense of defeat. The financial cost was significant, but even heavier was the emotional weight of thinking I had taken a step backward while others seemed to be moving forward with their lives. Looking back, however, I realize that this “failure” was not an end but a turning point. It forced me to confront my limits, but more importantly, it taught me resilience. I began to reflect on what went wrong and how I could approach challenges differently in the future. I learned the importance of planning realistically, managing my resources carefully, and asking for help instead of carrying everything on my own shoulders. Most of all, I discovered that setbacks do not define me unless I let them. When I returned home, I carried those lessons into every part of my life. I approached school with a stronger mindset, determined not to let one difficult experience hold me back. I developed healthier study habits, learned to lean on mentors and peers for support, and began to manage my time and finances more wisely. Slowly, the weight of what once felt like failure transformed into motivation. I was no longer afraid of falling short because I knew I could rise again. Today, I see that obstacle as one of the most important experiences of my life. It reminded me that growth often comes through discomfort and that resilience is built not in moments of success but in how we respond to failure. The move may not have turned out the way I envisioned, but it gave me something more valuable than a smooth path forward—it gave me the strength and determination to keep going no matter what challenges I encounter. I am now in a better school with amazing resources to set me up for success!

Math has always been more than just numbers and equations to me—it is a language that explains the world around us. What I love most about math is the sense of logic and clarity it provides. Every problem has a path to its solution, and while the process may be challenging, there is always a reward in finding the answer. That moment of understanding, when everything clicks into place, is deeply satisfying and motivates me to keep learning. Math also teaches persistence and problem-solving skills that go far beyond the classroom. I’ve learned that mistakes are not failures, but opportunities to think differently and approach a problem from another angle. This has shaped the way I tackle challenges in other areas of my life as well, giving me confidence that with enough patience and effort, I can overcome obstacles. What excites me most is how math connects to real life. Whether it’s in science, technology, economics, or even everyday decisions, math is everywhere. It’s the foundation of innovation, critical thinking, and progress. I find it fascinating that the same principles I learn in class are used to build bridges, design computer systems, or analyze medical data. It shows me that math is not only practical but also powerful. Ultimately, I love math because it pushes me to grow. It challenges me to think critically, be creative, and never give up. Math isn’t just a subject I study—it’s a skill that shapes the way I view the world and my role in it. I know that the discipline, curiosity, and resilience I gain from studying math will continue to guide me throughout my education and future career.

When I think about my future as a nurse, I envision more than a career—I see a lifelong calling to serve, heal, and inspire. Nursing is not simply a profession that provides stability; it is a pathway that will allow me to combine compassion with skill, knowledge with service, and resilience with purpose. My vision for myself as a nurse is to be someone who not only treats illness but also uplifts individuals, families, and communities through advocacy, education, and genuine human connection. One of my main goals as a future nurse is to provide patient-centered care that goes beyond the surface of medical needs. I believe that every patient is more than their diagnosis. Behind every hospital bed or clinic visit is a person with fears, hopes, and a story that deserves to be heard. My vision is to be a nurse who listens deeply, offers empathy, and makes patients feel valued during some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives. I want my patients to remember me not just as a provider of care but as someone who treated them with dignity, kindness, and respect. Another aspect of my vision is to continue learning and advancing my knowledge in nursing. Healthcare is constantly evolving, and I want to remain adaptable, curious, and dedicated to professional growth. In the short term, I plan to gain experience as a registered nurse in a hospital setting, where I can sharpen my clinical skills and learn from experienced colleagues. Over time, I aspire to pursue advanced practice and become a nurse practitioner. This will allow me to expand my scope of care, serve a broader population, and be more deeply involved in patient education and prevention. My long-term vision is to specialize in an area such as pediatrics, mental health, or community health—fields where I can combine direct care with advocacy and outreach. Equally important to my vision is making an impact beyond individual patients. As the first person in my family to win scholarships and pursue higher education, I understand the importance of being a role model. I want to use my journey to encourage others in my community to pursue their goals, even when the path feels uncertain. Nursing gives me a platform to serve not only in clinical settings but also through health education, mentorship, and community programs. I see myself organizing workshops, supporting public health initiatives, and working with underserved populations who may not always have access to consistent care. Resilience is another core part of my vision. My own challenges—academic struggles, financial hardships, and times of self-doubt—have shaped me into someone who doesn’t give up easily. As a nurse, I know I will face high-stress situations, emotional exhaustion, and moments where the demands feel overwhelming. My vision is to handle these moments with grace, leaning on my resilience and my “why.” I want to be the kind of nurse who others can rely on during crises, who stays calm under pressure, and who approaches every challenge as an opportunity to learn and grow. Finally, my vision for myself as a nurse is to embody balance: to care for others while also caring for myself. Nursing is a career that requires incredible giving of time, energy, and emotion. I believe that to be the best nurse for others, I must also prioritize my own well-being, mental health, and personal growth. My vision includes building a sustainable career where I can continue giving my best for decades, while also nurturing my own passions, family, and future. In conclusion, my vision for myself as a nurse is to be a compassionate caregiver, a lifelong learner, a community advocate, and a resilient professional who uplifts others through service. I want to make a difference not only in treating illness but also in preventing disease, educating communities, and inspiring those around me. Nursing is not just a job for me—it is the fulfillment of my values, my strengths, and my dreams. By pursuing this path, I am building a future where I can make a meaningful, lasting impact on the world around me.

My pro-life convictions are deeply rooted in both my faith and my life experiences. Growing up in a single-parent, low-income household, I saw firsthand the struggles my mother endured to raise me on her own. Her perseverance showed me that every life—no matter how difficult the circumstances—has value and purpose. Her example, along with my faith in God, has shaped my belief that life is sacred from conception to natural death. As an African American woman, first-generation college graduate, and someone who has faced challenges with anxiety, ADHD, and depression, I know what it feels like to battle obstacles that sometimes make life seem overwhelming. Yet, through those challenges, I have also seen the beauty of resilience, hope, and God’s grace. These experiences remind me that every human being, no matter how small or vulnerable, deserves the chance to live, grow, and fulfill their God-given purpose. My faith is the foundation of my pro-life stance. I believe God is the author of life, and because He created every person in His image, all human beings are worthy of dignity, love, and protection. Psalm 139 reminds us that God knows us even in the womb, and that truth grounds me in the conviction that the unborn are not just potential lives, but fully human beings deserving of protection. I also trust God’s sovereignty, even in situations that seem overwhelming or unplanned. Just as my mother trusted Him to raise me despite her struggles, I believe He equips people with strength, resources, and community when they choose life. To me, being pro-life is not only about opposing abortion, but also about building a culture where women and families are supported, children are valued, and all human life is honored. My pro-life values guide how I live and serve others. I have volunteered in community programs that support young women, mentoring them through school and life challenges. Many of these young women come from difficult backgrounds, and I encourage them by sharing my own story and reminding them that their lives—and the lives of their children—have immense worth. In my nursing journey, I also strive to uphold the dignity of all people I encounter. Every patient deserves compassion, no matter their age, condition, or background. I see my role as both a caregiver and an advocate, ensuring that those who feel unseen or devalued know that their lives matter. Long-term, as I continue my path toward becoming a Nurse Practitioner, I want to use my career to advocate for vulnerable populations, including the unborn, the elderly, and those struggling with mental health. My experiences have shown me the challenges that can come with life, but they have also convinced me of its immeasurable worth. My faith teaches me that every life is a gift from God, deserving of dignity and protection. I live out my pro-life convictions by supporting women, encouraging youth, serving patients, and working to build a culture where all human beings—from the unborn to the elderly—are valued. For me, being pro-life is not just a belief, but a calling to reflect God’s love and truth in how I lead, serve, and advocate for others.

Faith has been the foundation of my life, shaping the way I see myself, others, and the world around me. As someone who comes from a single-parent, low-income household and who is a first-generation college graduate, I have relied on my faith in God to guide me through obstacles that could have easily discouraged me. Trusting God with my life has not only strengthened me personally but has also shaped my leadership style. For me, leadership is not about power or recognition—it is about serving others, uplifting those who feel unseen, and pointing people toward hope. My leadership is rooted in humility, compassion, and service—values that come directly from my faith. I look to Christ’s example of servant leadership, where true greatness is found in lifting others up rather than seeking personal gain. This means that when I lead, I try to prioritize listening, empathy, and encouragement. I do not believe leadership is about commanding people; instead, it is about walking alongside them, inspiring them, and helping them believe in their own potential. My faith has also taught me perseverance. Living with anxiety, ADHD, and depression has shown me how easy it can be to feel overwhelmed or hopeless. Yet, each time I’ve leaned on God, I’ve discovered renewed strength. I strive to remind people that challenges do not define us and that with faith, determination, and support, we can overcome. One of the most meaningful experiences of leading through faith happened during my undergraduate years. I had a close friend who was struggling academically and personally, and she confided in me that she was thinking about dropping out. Instead of simply offering advice, I shared my own testimony—how God carried me through seasons of depression and self-doubt, and how my faith gave me the courage to keep moving forward even when life felt impossible. I invited her to pray with me, and I made it a point to encourage her daily, reminding her of her worth and potential. Slowly, she began to regain confidence. She chose to stay in school, and today she is thriving in her own career path. That experience showed me the power of faith-driven leadership. It wasn’t about me giving her all the answers—it was about pointing her back to God’s strength and walking beside her until she could stand strong again. That moment reinforced my desire to lead with faith in my future career as a nurse. I want to bring the same compassion, patience, and encouragement into healthcare settings, where patients are often at their most vulnerable. My vision is to be not only a nurse who provides excellent clinical care but also a leader who creates an environment of hope, dignity, and love. Long-term, I aspire to become a Nurse Practitioner, where I will have greater opportunities to advocate for patients, mentor young nurses, and influence healthcare systems. My faith will remain at the center of that journey, guiding me to lead with integrity, humility, and courage. I also see my career as a platform to spread the gospel—not necessarily through words alone, but through the way I care for people, serve communities, and demonstrate Christ’s love in action. Faith has shaped me into a leader who values service, perseverance, and compassion above all else. By leading with humility and relying on God’s guidance, I have been able to inspire others and walk with them through difficult times. That experience has given me a clear vision for the future: to continue leading through faith in my nursing career, serving as a source of both healing and hope.

My journey toward nursing has been shaped by both challenge and purpose. As an African American woman raised in a single-parent, low-income household, and as the first in my family to graduate college, I have learned the importance of resilience, faith, and service. Along the way, I have also navigated my own battles with anxiety, ADHD, and depression. While these struggles were difficult, they became some of my greatest teachers. They inspired me to pursue a career in nursing, where I can combine my academic strengths, lived experiences, and compassion to care for others in their most vulnerable moments. From a young age, I was fascinated by science and the human body, which led me to complete my Bachelor of Science in Biology in just three years. But what ultimately drew me to nursing was not only my love for learning but my desire to serve. Living with anxiety, ADHD, and depression showed me firsthand how important it is for healthcare providers to see patients as whole people, not just as conditions or cases. Too often, mental health is overlooked in medical settings, and patients leave feeling unseen or unheard. As a nurse, I want to create safe spaces for patients to be honest about what they are going through, so they know they are not alone. Another source of inspiration for me is my faith. I trust God with my life, and I believe He has called me into this field. My dream is not only to provide excellent medical care but to live in a way that reflects God’s love. Nursing gives me the opportunity to live out the gospel through service—whether by offering comfort to a patient in pain or by advocating for those who feel overlooked. Growing up in a single-parent household taught me strength and perseverance. I watched my mother sacrifice daily to provide for our family, often putting her own needs aside so that I could pursue opportunities she never had. Her example instilled in me a deep respect for hard work and determination, but also the importance of lifting others up along the way. Being a first-generation college graduate also shaped my perspective. I had to learn to navigate higher education largely on my own, without the guidance of family members who had gone through it before. That experience taught me independence, grit, and resourcefulness. It also gave me a passion for mentoring others, especially students from underrepresented backgrounds who might feel lost in their educational journey. I want my story to remind them that they, too, can overcome barriers and achieve their goals. Looking forward, I plan to not only complete my Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing program but to eventually continue to Nurse Practitioner (NP) school. Becoming an NP will allow me to expand my scope of practice, serve communities with limited access to healthcare, and advocate for mental health integration in medical care. While nursing is central to my purpose, I also find joy and balance in activities outside of school and work. One of my greatest passions is sharing my faith and spreading the gospel. Whether it is through volunteering in my community, mentoring young people, or simply showing kindness in everyday interactions, I see every opportunity as a way to reflect Christ’s love. This brings me balance, especially during stressful times, because it reminds me that my life is not only about personal achievement but about service and impact. Beyond faith, I also enjoy activities that keep me grounded and creative. Spending time outdoors, reading, and connecting with friends and family help me maintain balance between my studies and personal life. These moments recharge me, allowing me to show up as my best self for my patients, classmates, and community. What drives me as a caregiver is the belief that every patient deserves to be seen, heard, and cared for with dignity. My personal journey with mental health, my background as a first-generation graduate, and my faith in God have all given me resilience and compassion that I hope to carry into every patient interaction. Outside of nursing, spreading the gospel and staying connected to my community give me purpose and joy. I see nursing not only as a career but as a calling—a way to combine knowledge, empathy, and faith to make a difference in people’s lives. With God’s guidance, I know that every step I take in this field will bring me closer to fulfilling the purpose He has placed over my life.

My name is Mariya Martino, and I am a proud African American woman who comes from a single-parent, low-income household. As a first-generation college graduate, education has always represented more than just a degree—it has been a pathway to opportunity, stability, and a way to honor the sacrifices my family has made. In 2022, I earned my Bachelor of Science in Biology in just three years, an accomplishment that reflects not only my academic determination but also my resilience in overcoming barriers. Now, I am pursuing an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program to turn my passion for healthcare into a meaningful career. Being the first in my family to graduate from college taught me the value of persistence and hard work. Growing up in a single-parent household, financial struggles were a constant reality, but they also motivated me to strive for excellence and build a future where I could give back. My biology degree laid the foundation for scientific knowledge, while my ABSN program is providing the clinical experience I need to enter the nursing profession. My career aspiration is to become a registered nurse and eventually specialize in psychiatric nursing or community health. Living with anxiety, ADHD, and depression has given me firsthand insight into the importance of mental health support in healthcare. Too often, patients’ emotional struggles are overlooked, and I want to be the kind of nurse who recognizes the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. Looking further ahead, I plan to continue my education by pursuing Nurse Practitioner (NP) school. Becoming an NP will allow me to expand my scope of practice, provide advanced care to underserved populations, and strengthen my ability to advocate for mental health awareness. Through every step of this journey, I trust God with my life. My faith is my anchor, and I believe He has called me not only to serve patients through medicine but also to spread the gospel by living out His love, compassion, and grace in everything I do. As someone who understands the impact of representation, I am committed to giving back to my community. I have volunteered with local health education initiatives and youth mentorship programs, working to empower others the way mentors once empowered me. These experiences remind me of the power of visibility and support, especially for young people who, like me, may not have many role models in higher education or professional careers. One of my greatest accomplishments so far has been completing my biology degree in three years while managing personal and financial challenges. Doing so required focus, adaptability, and perseverance—skills I now carry with me into nursing school. Financing my education remains one of my greatest challenges. Nursing school requires my full attention, leaving little time for outside employment. By receiving scholarship support, I will be able to pay down my student loans and ease the financial pressure that weighs heavily on me. The money I save will allow me to focus fully on my training and provide the stability I need to begin my nursing career strong. Reducing this burden will not only benefit me but also strengthen the communities I serve. With greater financial freedom, I can pursue specialized training, dedicate time to working in underserved areas, and eventually continue my education in NP school without being held back by overwhelming debt. Most importantly, it will allow me to continue walking in my calling: serving others, uplifting those in need, and spreading the gospel through both words and actions.

Mental health is one of the most personal yet universal experiences a person can face. At some point, nearly everyone encounters moments of emotional struggle, but the depth and persistence of mental health challenges can shape an individual in profound ways. For me, my journey with anxiety and depression has not only been a battle but also a source of resilience, empathy, and purpose. My experiences have shifted my worldview, reshaped my relationships, and inspired me to dedicate my career to healthcare, where I can advocate for others who may feel unseen or misunderstood. Before I personally experienced the weight of mental health struggles, I used to believe that success was a straightforward formula: work hard, stay disciplined, and everything else would fall into place. This mindset was ingrained in me from a young age, where achievement was often measured by grades, productivity, and external accomplishments. When I entered college, I carried that same determination, believing that my willpower would be enough to carry me through any obstacle. However, mental health has a way of breaking down even the strongest illusions. Anxiety, for example, often made me question my abilities no matter how much effort I put in. Depression, on the other hand, drained the motivation that once came so naturally. For the first time, I realized that strength is not just about pushing through; it is also about recognizing when you need rest, help, or compassion. This shift in belief was humbling but also transformative. I came to understand that mental health is not a sign of weakness but an essential part of human well-being. Just as we would never shame someone for breaking a bone or needing treatment for an illness, we should not stigmatize those who are struggling mentally. This realization fueled my belief in compassion, not only toward others but also toward myself. I began to embrace the idea that self-care is not selfish—it is necessary. Furthermore, my experiences taught me the importance of balance. I no longer measure success solely by external achievements but by inner growth, resilience, and the ability to keep moving forward despite obstacles. I learned that vulnerability is not something to hide but a bridge to deeper connections with others. Mental health challenges often feel isolating, yet they have paradoxically strengthened many of my relationships. In the beginning, I struggled with opening up to others about my experiences. I feared judgment, misunderstanding, or the possibility of being seen as “too much.” However, I eventually realized that hiding my struggles only created more distance between me and the people I cared about. The first time I openly shared my experiences with anxiety and depression, I was surprised by the empathy I received in return. Instead of judgment, I was met with understanding and, in some cases, stories from others who had gone through similar battles. These conversations reminded me that vulnerability fosters connection. It showed me that I was not alone and that many people silently carry their own struggles. At the same time, my experiences made me more empathetic toward others. When a friend expresses stress, sadness, or self-doubt, I can often recognize the signs beneath their words. My own journey helps me respond with patience and understanding rather than quick fixes or dismissive comments. Mental health taught me the value of simply listening and offering presence rather than trying to solve everything. Some relationships did shift in difficult ways. There were people who did not fully understand or who expected me to “snap out of it.” While painful, these moments helped me see the importance of surrounding myself with people who support growth and healing. In the long run, my experiences helped me cultivate more authentic relationships, grounded in honesty and mutual care. Perhaps the most significant impact of my mental health journey has been its influence on my career aspirations. At one point, I questioned whether I would even have the strength to continue pursuing my academic and professional goals. Yet over time, my struggles inspired me to pursue a career in healthcare, specifically nursing, where I can turn my experiences into a source of purpose. My own challenges taught me firsthand how critical it is for patients to feel heard, validated, and supported—not just treated for physical symptoms. Healthcare professionals have a unique opportunity to make patients feel safe in their most vulnerable moments. I want to be the kind of nurse who notices when someone seems withdrawn, anxious, or overwhelmed and takes the time to ask how they are really doing. My compassion, shaped by my own mental health experiences, will allow me to treat patients as whole individuals, not just cases or conditions. Beyond individual patient care, I aspire to advocate for greater awareness of mental health in healthcare settings. Too often, mental health is separated from physical health, as though the two are not deeply interconnected. I want to be part of breaking that barrier, whether by supporting hospital initiatives that promote mental wellness, collaborating with interdisciplinary teams, or pursuing advanced training in psychiatric or community health nursing. Moreover, my long-term goal is to mentor future students and young professionals who may also struggle with balancing mental health and career aspirations. I know how overwhelming it can feel to doubt yourself, and I want others to see that their challenges do not disqualify them from achieving great things. In fact, these experiences can become their greatest strength. My journey with mental health has been one of the most difficult yet meaningful parts of my life. It has reshaped my beliefs, teaching me that resilience is not about never falling but about finding the courage to rise again. It has deepened my relationships, showing me the power of vulnerability and the beauty of authentic connection. Most importantly, it has inspired my career aspirations, fueling my passion for nursing and my desire to advocate for others who may feel invisible in their struggles. While I would not have chosen these challenges for myself, I can see how they have made me a stronger, more compassionate, and more purpose-driven person. Mental health is not just part of my story—it is the foundation of the person and future nurse I am becoming.

My decision to pursue nursing was not the result of a single moment but rather the accumulation of life experiences that shaped me into who I am today. Each challenge, each setback, and each success has given me a deeper understanding of resilience, empathy, and the value of service to others. These experiences have inspired me to choose nursing as a career that will allow me to combine my personal growth with my passion for helping people in meaningful ways. One of the most significant experiences that influenced my decision was becoming the first person in my family to win scholarships and pursue higher education. Growing up, higher education often felt like something far out of reach. I didn’t have a clear roadmap, and I often doubted whether I could achieve such a milestone. The journey to this point required determination, faith in myself, and perseverance through financial struggles and personal challenges. Nursing, as a career, mirrors this same perseverance—it requires dedication, continuous learning, and the ability to push through even the most difficult circumstances. I have also faced periods of instability and uncertainty that shaped my compassion for others. At one point, I relocated, lost a sense of stability, and found myself without close friends or family nearby. These were some of the hardest times of my life, but they gave me empathy for people who feel vulnerable, isolated, or overlooked. Nurses often encounter patients at their lowest points, when they are scared, uncertain, or in pain. My experiences allow me to connect with those feelings and provide not just medical care but also emotional support and understanding. Academic challenges also played a role in shaping my career choice. There were times when I struggled to balance the stress of school with personal responsibilities, and I questioned whether I was strong enough to keep going. Yet, every setback became an opportunity to build resilience. I learned how to adapt, problem-solve, and persevere even when the road was unclear. These lessons are central to nursing, where unexpected challenges often arise, and the ability to remain steady and resourceful is crucial. My personal experiences have also shown me the power of compassion. During difficult times, I encountered people—teachers, mentors, and community members—who offered me guidance, encouragement, and understanding. Their compassion made all the difference in my ability to move forward. Nursing gives me the opportunity to pay that forward. I want to be the person who reassures a worried parent, comforts a scared patient, or simply listens when someone feels unheard. My life has taught me that small acts of kindness can have lasting impacts, and I want to embody that in my nursing career. Looking ahead, I see nursing as a natural extension of the lessons my life has taught me. It is a career where resilience, compassion, and hard work are not only valuable but essential. My goal is to become a nurse who provides excellent patient care while also serving as an advocate and source of hope for those I encounter. Ultimately, my life experiences have given me both the motivation and the tools to succeed in this field. In conclusion, the challenges I have faced, the resilience I have built, and the values I have learned all led me to choose nursing as my career. Nursing is not just about medical care—it is about compassion, empathy, and perseverance, qualities that my life has prepared me to embody. By choosing this path, I am turning my struggles into strengths and using them to serve others in their moments of greatest need.

Growing up, I never imagined that I would one day become the first person in my family to win scholarships and pursue a college education. For a long time, higher education felt distant, but through persistence and faith in myself, I found a way to begin writing a new story. My decision to pursue a degree in healthcare, specifically nursing, is rooted in my personal experiences, my values, and my deep desire to contribute meaningfully to the lives of others. From a young age, I admired the role nurses play in society. They are not only caregivers but also advocates, teachers, and sources of hope for patients and families during their most difficult moments. Nursing requires knowledge and technical skill, but it also demands compassion, patience, and resilience. Choosing nursing as my career path felt natural because it aligns with my strengths, my heart for helping others, and my determination to make a difference. My journey into healthcare was also shaped by challenges that taught me resilience. I faced setbacks in school and financial struggles, and I often had to navigate life without much support nearby. These experiences gave me empathy for others who feel vulnerable and uncertain. Nursing allows me to transform those lessons into a career where I can provide comfort, guidance, and care to those who need it most. Another driving force in my decision is my belief in education as a tool for change. As the first in my family to earn scholarships, I feel a responsibility to use my education not only for personal growth but also to inspire others. I want to show that no matter where you come from or how many obstacles you face, it is possible to achieve your dreams through hard work and determination. Looking toward the future, my short-term goal is to complete my degree and begin working as a registered nurse in a hospital or community healthcare setting. I want to gain hands-on experience, develop my clinical skills, and learn from seasoned professionals. In the long term, I aspire to specialize in a field that combines patient care with education and advocacy, such as pediatric, mental health, or community health nursing. Eventually, I hope to pursue advanced practice as a nurse practitioner, so I can provide more comprehensive care and expand my impact. Ultimately, my goal is to be a nurse who not only treats illness but also promotes health, prevents disease, and supports patients and families in meaningful ways. Nursing embodies everything I want in a career: the chance to learn continuously, the opportunity to serve others, and the ability to make a lasting difference.