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Martha Flores

1,135

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Finalist

Bio

BSN. Graduated on March 25, 2025. Accepted into a nurse residency program in Pediatric Neurology.

Education

Galen College of Nursing-San Antonio

Bachelor's degree program
2022 - 2025
  • Majors:
    • Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Bachelor's degree program

  • Graduate schools of interest:

  • Transfer schools of interest:

  • Majors of interest:

    • Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Hospital & Health Care

    • Dream career goals:

      Charge Nurse, well experienced nurse

    • Nurse Extern

      St.Davids Health Care
      2023 – 20241 year

    Sports

    Soccer

    Junior Varsity
    2014 – 20173 years

    Public services

    • Volunteering

      Student Ambassador Committee — Ambassador - Even Planner
      2023 – 2025
    Noah Jon Markstrom Foundation Scholarship
    Pursuing a career in pediatric medicine has been my dream for as long as I can remember, and recently, that dream became a reality when I accepted a new grad residency position in the neurology pediatric unit at Dell Children’s. This opportunity represents not only the culmination of years of hard work and dedication but also the chance to fulfill my passion for caring for children and making a positive impact on their lives. I feel incredibly grateful to have the chance to start my career in a place that aligns so perfectly with my goals and aspirations. My inspiration to enter pediatric medicine started long before nursing school, but it truly solidified during my clinical rotations. One of the most memorable moments that shaped my passion for pediatrics occurred while I was caring for a young boy who had been admitted after experiencing a seizure. As I approached his room, I could sense the fear and uncertainty from both him and his parents. The boy was understandably scared, and his parents were overwhelmed and anxious. As I worked alongside the healthcare team to monitor his vital signs and administer the necessary treatments, I took the time to explain each step to his family in a calm and reassuring way. I also spoke to the young patient directly, using age-appropriate language to help him feel more comfortable and in control of the situation. Witnessing the transformation from fear to a sense of calm and safety was profoundly rewarding. His parents expressed their gratitude for not only the medical care but also the compassion and communication we provided throughout the process. That experience reinforced my belief that pediatric medicine goes far beyond treating symptoms; it involves building trust, offering emotional support, and empowering families with knowledge. I knew from that moment that pediatrics was the field where I could make the most meaningful impact. One of the aspects of pediatric medicine that inspires me the most is the resilience of young patients. Children possess a unique ability to face health challenges with incredible strength and optimism. As healthcare providers, it is our duty to support that resilience by offering compassionate, evidence-based care that not only addresses their medical needs but also nurtures their emotional well-being. I am committed to being the kind of nurse who advocates for my patients, especially when they are too young to express their own needs and concerns. Working in the neurology pediatric unit also aligns with my passion for tackling complex medical cases while maintaining a family-centered approach. Neurological conditions can be particularly challenging and often involve long-term care and support. I look forward to being part of a team that works collaboratively to provide comprehensive care while also recognizing the importance of empathy and communication. The opportunity to build strong, trusting relationships with patients and families is something I deeply value. As I begin my journey in pediatric nursing at Dell Children’s, I am motivated by the opportunity to learn from experienced mentors and grow into a confident, skilled pediatric nurse. My goal is to make a positive difference in the lives of my young patients by advocating for their best interests and delivering care that prioritizes both their physical and emotional well-being. I am eager to contribute to the team and dedicate myself to providing exceptional pediatric care that families can trust.
    Women in STEM and Community Service Scholarship
    I am deeply passionate about addressing healthcare disparities, both locally and globally, particularly in underserved communities. Throughout my journey in nursing, I have seen firsthand how social, economic, and cultural factors can affect individuals’ access to healthcare. From my experiences working with diverse populations, I have developed a strong commitment to improving healthcare access, education, and outcomes for vulnerable groups. As a nurse, I aim to use my skills and education to advocate for those who face barriers to care and work toward creating a more equitable healthcare system for all. One of the most significant global issues that fuels my passion is the healthcare disparities faced by low-income communities and marginalized populations. Around the world, millions of people lack access to basic healthcare services, and this issue is particularly pronounced in rural areas and developing countries. For example, many individuals in these communities are unable to access preventive care or treatment for chronic conditions, which exacerbates health outcomes and leads to preventable suffering and death. I am also deeply concerned about health inequities based on race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status, which are prevalent in many parts of the world, including here in the United States. Locally, these issues are mirrored in communities where individuals often face financial barriers to care, lack of insurance, or difficulty navigating the complex healthcare system. As a nursing professional, I see the profound impact these challenges have on individuals’ health and well-being. I am committed to advocating for better access to care for underserved populations and ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to receive the healthcare they need to thrive. To address these issues, I envision using my skills and education to advocate for healthcare reform and improve the quality of care in underserved areas. I plan to work in pediatric nursing, where I can advocate for vulnerable children and their families. Many children in low-income communities suffer from preventable diseases or chronic conditions that go untreated due to lack of access to proper healthcare. By providing comprehensive care and education to families, I can help bridge the gap between healthcare providers and underserved communities. Additionally, I see the importance of preventive care and health education in empowering individuals to take control of their health. As a nurse, I want to educate families on the importance of nutrition, exercise, and regular check-ups, and help them understand how to navigate the healthcare system to get the care they need. On a global scale, I hope to use my nursing education to collaborate with organizations that are working to improve healthcare in developing countries. Nurses are vital in providing essential care in these regions, and I am passionate about contributing to programs that provide basic health services, maternal and child care, and education about preventing common illnesses. Working with international organizations will allow me to use my skills to make a tangible impact on a larger scale, ensuring that vulnerable populations have access to the care and resources they need to lead healthier lives. Ultimately, I believe that healthcare is a fundamental human right, and my goal is to help address the disparities that exist within the healthcare system. Through my education and career, I am committed to using my skills to advocate for the underserved and create a more inclusive healthcare environment. Whether through local initiatives or global health programs, I am determined to use my passion for nursing to contribute to a better, more equitable future for all.
    Women in STEM Scholarship
    As a woman who is passionate about learning and driven by a desire to help others, I have always been motivated to pursue a path in a field where I can make a difference. My interest in the healthcare profession, specifically nursing, aligns perfectly with the goals of this scholarship—to foster a community of women empowered by knowledge and ready to contribute to a meaningful and impactful field. I am excited to be part of this community of women who are curious, constantly learning, and contributing to the betterment of society. From a young age, I have been fascinated by the human body and the way it works. However, it wasn't until I had personal experiences with my husband's chronic illness that I truly began to understand the impact that healthcare professionals—especially nurses—can have. The care and compassion shown by the nurses who supported my husband and our family during difficult times was nothing short of inspiring. I realized then that nursing was not only a field that allowed me to combine my passion for science and helping others but also a field where I could contribute to the well-being of individuals and communities. What drives me the most about nursing is the opportunity to apply my knowledge of the sciences in real-world situations. Every day, nurses use their expertise to solve complex problems, make critical decisions, and provide compassionate care to those who need it the most. I find the intersection of science, empathy, and problem-solving incredibly fulfilling. I want to be part of a profession where curiosity is valued, where learning never stops, and where my contributions can have a direct, meaningful impact on others. In addition to my passion for nursing, I am committed to contributing to the larger community of women in healthcare. As a first-generation college student, I know how challenging it can be to navigate the complexities of higher education. However, my experiences have made me resilient and resourceful, and I want to help create an environment where other women can feel supported and empowered to pursue their own dreams in healthcare. Whether it is by mentoring future nurses, advocating for women's health issues, or leading initiatives that promote inclusivity, I am committed to contributing to a field that is constantly evolving and where women are making tremendous strides. Throughout my educational journey, I have cultivated a sense of curiosity and dedication to learning that has been integral in helping me succeed in nursing school. Whether through hands-on clinical experiences, academic coursework, or personal encounters with patients, I approach each challenge with a mindset of growth and improvement. Nursing is a dynamic field that requires continuous learning, and I look forward to using my curiosity and knowledge to grow within it. I am excited about the possibilities this scholarship offers, as it would further empower me to achieve my career goals and continue making a difference. In conclusion, the STEM field, particularly nursing, offers an exciting and dynamic environment where women can thrive, lead, and contribute to societal change. I am ready to join this community of women who are not only passionate about their work but also dedicated to helping others and advancing the field of healthcare. I am driven by a desire to continuously learn, grow, and make a meaningful impact, and I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to the STEM community and inspire others to do the same.
    Future Leaders Scholarship
    During my nursing education, I had the opportunity to demonstrate leadership skills while serving as a peer mentor for a group of nursing students. This experience allowed me to take on a leadership role within my academic community, where I helped guide and support my peers through some of the most challenging aspects of the nursing program. This experience not only strengthened my leadership abilities but also shaped the way I approach problem-solving, collaboration, and patient care. The challenges I faced in this leadership role were numerous. First and foremost, balancing my own demanding coursework while providing guidance and support to my peers was difficult. Nursing school is rigorous, and there were many moments when I had to prioritize my own academic responsibilities while still being available to help others. Additionally, I was tasked with guiding students who were often feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about their abilities. Many of them struggled with complex concepts or time management, and it was my responsibility to offer support and encouragement. At times, it was challenging to find the right approach for each individual, as every student learns differently and faces unique obstacles. To navigate these challenges, I implemented several strategies that helped foster a supportive learning environment. First, I made myself available to meet with peers one-on-one to address specific concerns and questions. This personalized approach allowed me to build rapport with my fellow students and offer targeted advice or resources. Additionally, I organized study sessions to promote collaborative learning. In these sessions, we would review difficult material together, share tips for success, and encourage one another through the tough topics. I found that group discussions were especially helpful in clarifying concepts and easing feelings of isolation, as many students realized they were not alone in their struggles. Another key strategy I used was maintaining a positive and open-minded attitude, even during stressful moments. As a leader, it was important for me to model resilience and a proactive approach to challenges. I encouraged my peers to stay focused on their long-term goals and reminded them of their capabilities, which helped them build confidence and stay motivated throughout the program. The impact of my leadership was evident in the feedback I received from my peers. Many expressed that they felt more confident in their studies, improved their time management skills, and felt a sense of belonging in the program. I saw several students transform from feeling overwhelmed and discouraged to becoming more engaged and empowered learners. Additionally, I built strong relationships with my peers and faculty, which helped create a supportive network that extended beyond the classroom. In my future nursing career, I plan to apply the leadership skills I developed as a peer mentor to make a positive impact on both my patients and colleagues. The ability to listen, support, and guide others is critical in healthcare, where teamwork and collaboration are essential to providing high-quality care. I will continue to build on these skills by leading with empathy, fostering a positive and inclusive environment, and helping to empower those around me. Whether working with fellow nurses, patients, or families, I will use my leadership experience to inspire trust, create a supportive atmosphere, and work toward achieving the best possible outcomes for everyone involved.
    Eric Maurice Brandon Memorial Scholarship
    I am interested in pursuing nursing because I have always felt a deep calling to help others, particularly during their most vulnerable and challenging moments. From a young age, I was drawn to the idea of making a difference in people’s lives, and nursing offers a unique opportunity to combine my passion for caring for others with my desire to positively impact the lives of patients and their families. One of the most profound experiences that influenced my decision to pursue nursing has been my husband’s battle with lupus. Witnessing his struggles with a chronic illness gave me a new understanding of the healthcare system—one that showed me not only the importance of medical knowledge but also the profound role that compassionate care plays in the healing process. Throughout his treatments, I saw how essential nurses were in not only administering medications and therapies but also in offering emotional support, providing education, and simply being a comforting presence during difficult moments. The nurses who cared for my husband made a lasting impression on me, as they helped us navigate the complexities of his condition with patience and empathy. It was in these moments that I realized the profound impact nurses have and how much I wanted to be part of that healing process, offering care and support to those in need. Additionally, as a mother of a five-year-old son, I have developed a strong connection to pediatric nursing. Children face unique challenges when it comes to health, and I believe that providing care for them requires not only medical expertise but also a deep sense of empathy, patience, and the ability to communicate in a way that makes them feel comfortable and safe. I want to be a nurse who can support children and their families during their health journeys, offering not just medical care but emotional reassurance. I am particularly interested in pediatric nursing because I believe that, as a nurse, I will have the opportunity to make a profound difference in a child’s recovery and in the way their family experiences healthcare. Nursing also appeals to me because of its dynamic and multifaceted nature. It is a profession that requires continuous learning and the ability to adapt to new challenges. I am excited by the prospect of being part of a team of healthcare professionals, constantly working together to provide the best care possible for patients. Nursing allows for growth and specialization, meaning that I can continue to develop my skills and knowledge over the course of my career. Whether I decide to specialize further in pediatric care or pursue additional areas of nursing, I know that the possibilities for growth are endless. The ability to combine medical knowledge with emotional support and patient advocacy is what ultimately drew me to nursing. I want to be the kind of nurse who not only helps patients heal physically but also provides comfort and emotional support during difficult times. Nursing offers a chance to make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients and their families, and this is why I am committed to pursuing a career in this field. The experiences I’ve had with my family, my passion for caring for others, and my desire to advocate for patients have all led me to this point, and I am excited to take this next step in my journey.
    Joseph Joshua Searor Memorial Scholarship
    I am currently in the final stages of my educational journey, having recently completed my nursing degree and accepted a position as a pediatric neurology nurse at Dell Children’s Hospital. This accomplishment is the result of years of hard work, personal growth, and a deep commitment to pursuing my passion for nursing. However, my path to this point has not been a straight line, and the journey has been shaped by a series of life events and decisions that ultimately led me to this fulfilling career. Growing up as the oldest daughter of Mexican immigrants, I felt a strong sense of responsibility to succeed academically and set an example for my siblings. While my parents worked hard to support our family, they didn’t have the resources to help me financially with college, so I had to navigate the complexities of funding my education on my own. At first, I chose to pursue a different path, enrolling in a business program, believing that it would provide a stable career and financial security. However, after completing a few years in the business field, I realized that I wasn’t passionate about it. The work didn’t give me the fulfillment I craved, and I found myself unmotivated to continue. It was during this time that I had the "aha" moment that ultimately led me to nursing. My husband, who has lupus, was going through a difficult period with his health. We spent countless hours in hospitals and medical appointments, and it was during these experiences that I truly understood the vital role nurses play in a patient’s care. I saw how much of an impact nurses had—not just in administering treatments and medications, but in providing comfort, compassion, and reassurance. The nurses who cared for my husband and me were the ones who made the difference, offering not only expert care but also emotional support during incredibly challenging moments. In those moments, I realized I wanted to be part of that healing process. I wanted to be the one to offer comfort and help people navigate some of the toughest times of their lives. After this realization, I made the decision to return to school to pursue nursing. As a mother of a young son, balancing school and family was challenging, but it was also incredibly motivating. I knew that by pursuing my nursing degree, I was setting an example for my son that anything is possible with dedication and perseverance. I worked tirelessly to maintain good grades while also managing the demands of motherhood, and my hard work eventually paid off when I completed my nursing program. Now, as a pediatric neurology nurse, I have the opportunity to work with children and their families, providing care and support in some of their most difficult times. I am excited to begin this next chapter in my career, where I can make a direct and lasting impact on the lives of children and their families. My educational journey may have taken unexpected turns, but each step brought me closer to finding my true calling in nursing. I am proud of the hard work that got me to this point, and I am excited for the future and the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others.
    Deborah Stevens Pediatric Nursing Scholarship
    I am choosing a career in nursing because I have always been passionate about helping others, particularly during some of their most vulnerable moments. Nursing allows me to combine my desire to make a positive impact with my skills in care, compassion, and problem-solving. Through both personal and professional experiences, I have come to understand how transformative and essential nursing care is to patients and their families, which has driven me to pursue this career path. One of the most profound influences on my decision to become a nurse has been my husband’s battle with lupus. Seeing him navigate a chronic illness and experiencing the healthcare system from both the patient and caregiver perspective has given me a deep understanding of the importance of nurses in the care process. The nurses who supported us during his treatments made a lasting impression on me—not only because of their clinical knowledge but because of their ability to provide emotional support, comfort, and guidance in moments of uncertainty. Their presence and the way they interacted with my husband and our family inspired me to pursue nursing, as I realized how much of a difference a nurse can make, not only in healing the body but in providing holistic care that includes emotional support. In addition to my personal experiences with healthcare, I am particularly drawn to pediatric nursing because of my passion for working with children. As a mother of a five-year-old, I understand how important it is for children to feel safe, cared for, and understood, especially during a hospital stay or medical treatment. Pediatric nurses have the ability to comfort both the child and their family, making what could be a scary or stressful experience much more manageable. I want to be a pediatric nurse because I want to be that source of support, comfort, and care for children and families during times of illness. Pediatric nursing allows nurses to use their skills to not only treat medical conditions but to also be advocates for children, ensuring their emotional, developmental, and physical needs are met. This type of care is incredibly meaningful to me, as it combines my desire to help others with my love for working with children. I want to be part of a healthcare team that makes a lasting, positive impact on children’s lives by addressing their medical needs and helping them feel supported through their treatments. I have already taken steps to prepare for my nursing career and pediatric nursing specialization. I recently accepted a position as a pediatric neurology nurse at Dell Children’s Hospital, which aligns perfectly with my career goals. This role will allow me to work with children facing neurological conditions, supporting both the child and their family throughout their healthcare journey. I look forward to learning more about pediatric care and providing both medical and emotional support to children and families. I believe my experience as a mother and my passion for pediatric care will help me connect with my patients and make a positive difference in their lives. In choosing a career in nursing, specifically pediatric nursing, I am committing to a lifelong journey of growth, compassion, and making a meaningful impact. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to the well-being of children and their families and look forward to developing the skills and expertise necessary to be an effective, caring pediatric nurse.
    Community Health Ambassador Scholarship for Nursing Students
    I want to pursue a degree in nursing because I am passionate about making a difference in people’s lives, especially during their most vulnerable moments. My journey toward nursing has been shaped by personal experiences that opened my eyes to the profound impact compassionate care can have. One of the most significant influences on my decision to become a nurse has been my husband’s battle with lupus. Navigating life with a chronic illness has given me a unique perspective on healthcare, allowing me to see it from both the patient’s and the provider’s side. I have witnessed firsthand how vital it is for patients and their families to receive not only medical support but also genuine empathy and encouragement. The care and compassion shown by nurses during his treatment made an indelible impact on me. I knew I wanted to be that comforting presence for others facing difficult situations. As a mother and a first-generation college graduate, I have faced many challenges that have shaped my resilience and determination. Balancing nursing school with raising my five-year-old son has been demanding, but it has also given me a strong sense of purpose. I want to show him that hard work and dedication can turn dreams into reality, no matter how challenging the path may seem. I recently accepted my dream job as a pediatric neurology nurse at Dell Children’s Hospital, where I will have the privilege of working with children and their families through some of their toughest moments. My passion for pediatrics stems from my desire to support young patients and advocate for their well-being. I believe that providing compassionate, holistic care can significantly impact a child’s recovery and a family’s ability to cope. As a nurse, I hope to contribute to my community by being an advocate and a source of support for those in need. I want to be more than just a healthcare provider—I want to be someone who listens, understands, and offers hope. I plan to continue volunteering my time and skills to support local health initiatives and mentor aspiring nurses who, like me, may face challenges on their educational journey. I am committed to lifelong learning and professional growth, and I aim to use my knowledge and experience to make a positive difference in the lives of my patients and their families. Nursing is more than just a career to me—it is a calling rooted in empathy, dedication, and a desire to serve my community.
    Kelly O. Memorial Nursing Scholarship
    My name is Martha Flores, and I am proud to be the first person in my family to earn a bachelor’s degree. As the oldest daughter of Mexican immigrants, I grew up watching my parents work tirelessly to provide for our family. They didn’t have the opportunity to save for my education, so I took it upon myself to figure out how to finance college on my own. This journey taught me resilience, determination, and the value of hard work. One of the biggest motivations in my life is my five-year-old son. Balancing motherhood and nursing school has been challenging, but it has also given me a strong sense of purpose. I strive to be a positive role model for him, showing that dedication and persistence can turn dreams into reality. My experiences as a mother have deepened my sense of empathy and compassion—qualities that I know are essential in nursing. My passion for nursing started when I witnessed the impact that compassionate care had on my family. My husband has lupus, and navigating his journey with chronic illness has given me a unique perspective on healthcare. Seeing the difference that skilled, empathetic nurses made in his care inspired me to pursue a career where I could make that same impact on others. I realized how important it is to not only provide medical support but also offer kindness and reassurance to both patients and their families. I recently accepted my dream job as a pediatric neurology nurse at Dell Children’s Hospital. Working with children has always been my passion, and this opportunity allows me to combine my love for pediatrics with my commitment to providing family-centered care. I am excited to be part of a team that supports children and their families through challenging health journeys, and I am eager to learn and grow in this specialized field. To prepare myself for this step, I dedicated myself to excelling in my nursing program while also taking on leadership and community involvement opportunities. I participated in volunteer activities, mentored my peers, and offered support to fellow students balancing similar challenges. These experiences helped me develop strong communication skills, resilience, and the ability to work under pressure—qualities that will serve me well as I transition into professional practice. Becoming a nurse means more to me than just having a career—it’s about making a difference in the lives of others and being a source of comfort and strength during difficult times. I am grateful for the opportunity to pursue my passion and look forward to making a positive impact in pediatric neurology nursing.
    Women in Nursing Scholarship
    I want to be a nurse because I am passionate about making a positive impact on people’s lives, especially during their most vulnerable moments. My journey to becoming a nurse has been shaped by both personal and professional experiences that have shown me just how vital compassionate and skilled nursing care can be. One of the most significant influences on my decision to pursue nursing has been my husband’s battle with lupus. Navigating life with a chronic illness has given me a unique perspective, allowing me to see healthcare from both the patient’s and the provider’s side. I have witnessed firsthand the difference a caring and knowledgeable nurse can make—not only in managing symptoms but also in providing emotional support and reassurance during difficult times. Seeing how much a nurse’s presence and dedication meant to my husband and our family inspired me to become someone who could offer that same level of care to others. As a mother and a first-generation college graduate, I have faced many challenges that have fueled my determination to succeed. Balancing nursing school with motherhood has taught me resilience and time management while also deepening my sense of empathy and compassion. I want to show my son that no dream is too big to pursue and that hard work and dedication can overcome even the most difficult obstacles. Throughout nursing school, I found my passion for working with children and discovered that I truly wanted to make a difference in pediatric care. I recently accepted my dream job as a pediatric neurology nurse at Dell Children’s Hospital, where I will have the opportunity to support children and their families through some of the most challenging moments of their lives. This role allows me to combine my passion for nursing with my desire to advocate for vulnerable patients and provide compassionate, family-centered care. My experiences—both as a caregiver and as a loved one navigating chronic illness—have shaped my approach to nursing. They have given me a deep appreciation for the difference a nurse can make, not only medically but emotionally as well. I am committed to bringing that same level of care and empathy to my patients and their families, knowing firsthand how impactful it can be. Becoming a nurse is more than just a career choice for me—it is a calling rooted in personal experience and a desire to make a meaningful difference. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve others and to be that compassionate presence when they need it most.
    Sloane Stephens Doc & Glo Scholarship
    My name is Martha Flores, and I am the proud daughter of Mexican immigrants. Growing up as the oldest child in my family came with a lot of responsibility and the pressure to set a good example for my siblings. My parents worked hard to support us, but they didn’t have the opportunity to save for my education, so I had to figure out how to finance college on my own. It wasn’t easy, but it taught me resilience, determination, and the value of perseverance. One of the biggest motivations in my life is my five-year-old son. Balancing motherhood and nursing school has been challenging, but it has given me a strong sense of purpose. I want to show him that no dream is too big and that hard work can overcome any obstacle. Every late-night study session and long clinical shift has been worth it because I know I am creating a better future for both of us. I discovered my passion for nursing early on and was drawn to the idea of making a positive impact on people’s lives. I wanted a career where I could support and advocate for those who are most vulnerable, especially children. After years of dedication and persistence, I recently accepted my dream job as a pediatric neurology nurse at Dell Children’s Hospital. I couldn’t be more excited to work with children and help families navigate some of their most difficult moments. Being able to make a difference in the lives of children and their families is truly fulfilling and motivates me every day. My journey to this point has shaped me in countless ways. I’ve learned how to balance being a mother, a student, and a leader within my community. I’ve been involved in volunteer activities and made it a point to support my peers, whether through tutoring or just being a source of encouragement. These experiences have reinforced my commitment to making a difference, both as a nurse and as a role model for my son. Receiving financial assistance would help me pay down my student loans and ease the burden of debt as I transition into my new career. It would allow me to focus on my passion for nursing without the constant worry of financial strain, and it would give me the freedom to continue giving back to my community. More importantly, it would help me build a stable future for my family and give my son opportunities that I never had growing up.
    Charles Cheesman's Student Debt Reduction Scholarship
    My name is Martha Flores, and I am proud to be the oldest daughter of Mexican immigrants. As the first person in my family to earn a bachelor’s degree, I have faced many challenges along the way. My parents did not have the opportunity to save for my education, so I had to find ways to finance my college journey on my own. This experience has shaped me into a determined and resilient person, teaching me the value of hard work and perseverance. Growing up, I often felt the pressure of being the oldest child and the first to navigate higher education. My parents worked tirelessly to provide for our family, and I wanted to honor their sacrifices by pursuing my education and building a better future for myself and my loved ones. Along the way, I learned how to balance my responsibilities as a student, mother, and mentor to my siblings, always keeping in mind that my success would pave the way for those who come after me. One of my greatest motivations is my five-year-old son. Balancing motherhood and nursing school has not been easy, but it has given me a strong sense of purpose. I strive every day to set a positive example for him by demonstrating that dedication and persistence can lead to success. My goal is to show him that it is possible to overcome obstacles and achieve dreams through hard work and commitment. I found my passion for nursing early on in my education, inspired by the compassionate care I saw from healthcare workers and motivated by my desire to make a difference. I knew I wanted a career where I could support and advocate for those who are most vulnerable, especially children. After years of dedication and perseverance, I recently accepted a job offer for a pediatric neurology position—my dream job—where I will have the opportunity to work with children and make a meaningful difference in their lives. Working with kids has always been my passion, and I am grateful to have the chance to start my career in a field that aligns with my goals and values. Throughout my time in nursing school, I have remained committed to supporting my community and fellow students. I have participated in volunteer activities and offered mentorship to peers who faced similar challenges, whether through tutoring, sharing resources, or simply providing encouragement. These experiences have deepened my sense of responsibility and fueled my desire to continue giving back as I move forward in my nursing career. If granted financial assistance, I would use the money saved by paying down my student loans to build a stable future for my family. This would allow me to focus on my new career without the overwhelming stress of debt, and it would give me the freedom to continue giving back to my community. More importantly, it would enable me to provide my son with opportunities that I did not have growing up, helping to secure a better future for him.
    Martha Flores Student Profile | Bold.org