Living the Life of My Dreams Living the life of my dreams means walking in my purpose and using my journey to inspire others who feel like giving up. My dream is rooted in faith, perseverance, and a deep calling to serve. Healthcare has always been a part of my life—every job I’ve ever had has been in this field, not by chance, but by destiny. Becoming a nurse is more than a career for me; it’s a calling that reflects who I am at my core. I hold two degrees in Health Services Administration, and though I started nursing years ago, life’s responsibilities made me pause that dream. As a single mother and the breadwinner for my family, I had to prioritize raising my children and keeping my household stable. For over a decade, I put my education on hold, but my passion for nursing never left. In 2017, I returned to school, earning my associate’s degree by 2019 and my bachelor’s by 2022. The journey was far from easy—working full-time, studying late nights, and paying tuition out of pocket without financial aid tested my endurance. In 2023, I was accepted into an accelerated nursing program at a private institute. I gave it my all, but the financial challenges became too heavy. Despite the setbacks, I never gave up. I took a break, saved what I could, and prayed for another opportunity. That opportunity came when I discovered a master’s program designed for individuals with bachelor’s degrees who aspired to become registered nurses. Getting accepted into this program was a dream come true—it felt like the door I had been knocking on for years had finally opened. In my dream life, I see myself becoming a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). I envision owning a private clinic that provides quality, affordable healthcare to underserved populations, especially in communities where access is limited. Beyond that, I dream of reviving my nonprofit foundation to support widows, orphans, and the motherless in my home country of West Africa. My goal is to give back by creating opportunities for others—to offer jobs, mentorship, and guidance for young mothers trying to balance family, school, and work, just as I did. To me, success isn’t just about personal achievement; it’s about breaking generational boundaries and building a legacy that empowers others. I want to show women and young people in my community that with consistency, focus, and faith, anything is possible. If I can rise through hardship and still chase my dreams, they can too. The life of my dreams is not one of perfection, but of purpose. It’s a life where my story becomes a testimony—where every challenge I faced becomes a message of hope for someone else. My dream is to make a lasting difference, to heal, to teach, and to inspire. And every day I continue this journey, I’m already living a piece of that dream.

⸻ Scholarship Essay: Walking in My Calling Through Healthcare My journey in healthcare began at a very young age—not just through work, but through life itself. As a young mother raising two sons, I quickly learned the importance of putting others first. But somewhere along the way, I realized I also had to put myself first, especially when it came to my purpose. That purpose, I discovered, was rooted in medicine. At just 19 years old, I started working in the healthcare field as a medical assistant. Over the years, I’ve served in nearly every role possible: from administrative tasks to clinical care, from patient care tech to nursing assistant. Each position gave me a deeper understanding of the needs of patients and a stronger desire to do more. Although I tried exploring other career paths, my heart always led me back to healthcare. It wasn’t just work—it was something deeper. A calling. I first enrolled in nursing school years ago, full of hope and ambition. But as life would have it, I had to pause my dream to prioritize being a mother. For 17 years, I stepped away from school, putting my children’s needs above my own. Yet the fire to finish what I started never went out. In 2017, I made the decision to go back to school. I earned my first Associate degree by 2019, and then completed a bachelor’s in Health Service Administration by 2022—all while working full-time as a medical assistant and sometimes as a patient care technician. Still, something was missing. I felt a deeper pull, a higher purpose. In 2023, I re-entered nursing school with the goal of finally completing my A.S. degree in nursing. The journey hasn’t been easy—especially financially. My financial aid has been exhausted, and there have been times I had to take semesters off simply because I couldn’t afford tuition. But even in the struggle, I remain determined. I continue to push forward, step by step, knowing that this dream is not just for me, but for everyone I’ll one day care for. For me, nursing is not just a profession. It’s a sacred responsibility. I am a fierce advocate for the elderly, for orphaned and motherless children, and for every patient who needs to feel seen, heard, and valued. Healthcare has always been about people to me—about compassion, service, and healing. My passion for nursing is more than a career choice; it’s the path God placed in my heart. Receiving this scholarship would be more than just financial help—it would be a life-changing blessing. It would ease the weight I’ve been carrying and allow me to focus more on completing my degree and walking fully in my purpose. I am committed to becoming a nurse who makes a lasting difference, and with your support, I know I will get there. Thank you for considering me. I will not give up—because this isn’t just a goal. It’s my calling.

Called to Care: Faith, Service, and the Future of Healthcare I was only 19 when I entered the healthcare field, driven by a deep desire to serve and uplift others. I began as a medical assistant, then became a certified nursing assistant (CNA), working on the frontlines of patient care—comforting the sick, advocating for the voiceless, and standing in the gap during some of the most fragile moments of life. For me, healthcare has never been just a job—it’s been a ministry. Guided by my faith, every patient interaction has been a chance to live out the biblical call to serve others with compassion, humility, and love. Though I earned a bachelor’s degree in Health Administration and gained knowledge of the systems and policies behind healthcare, something was still missing. Nursing has always lived in the back of my mind—and my heart. I realized that while I understood the structure of healthcare from an administrative level, my true calling was to go deeper into direct patient care, where I could connect with people one-on-one, not just improve processes, but impact lives. Now, as I continue my nursing journey, my goal is to become a nurse practitioner and eventually open wellness centers in underserved communities. These centers will not only provide medical care but also offer spiritual and emotional support for those who are often neglected or dismissed by the system. My vision is to blend professional excellence with personal empathy, creating healing spaces that reflect both medical science and God’s love. I believe increasing racial diversity in healthcare is both urgent and essential. Too often, patients of color enter hospitals and clinics and do not see themselves represented among their caregivers. This can lead to mistrust, miscommunication, and missed diagnoses. When patients see providers who look like them—who understand their culture, language, and lived experience—they’re more likely to trust the care they’re given and follow through with treatment. It’s not just about identity—it’s about outcomes. As a Black woman in healthcare, I’ve often been the only one in the room who could truly relate to certain patients. And sometimes, just my presence brought comfort and connection. I know the power of representation because I’ve seen it in the eyes of patients who finally feel heard. That’s why I believe God placed me on this path—not just to work within the system, but to help change it. My faith fuels everything I do. It’s what gives me strength during long shifts and grace when patients are in pain. It’s what motivates me to study hard, stay focused, and push forward, even when the journey is challenging. I don’t see this career as mine alone—it’s a calling to serve, uplift, and restore. That’s also why I started the Grace To Care Evangelism Foundation—to extend care beyond hospital walls and meet the spiritual and physical needs of those who are most vulnerable. This journey isn’t easy, but it’s worth it. My experiences as a CNA, medical assistant, and healthcare administrator have prepared me to be a leader, a healer, and a voice for change. I’m not just entering nursing to treat illness—I’m here to bring light, faith, and dignity into every room I walk into.

Pursuing a career in healthcare has been one of the most courageous and meaningful decisions of my life. It is not just a career path for me—it’s a calling. I am deeply passionate about caring for others, advocating for vulnerable populations, and being part of a profession that heals, educates, and empowers. However, this journey has not come without its fair share of challenges. Currently, I am enrolled in an accelerated 18-month nursing program. The fast pace and rigor of this program require full dedication, but balancing school with my financial reality has made this path extremely difficult. I do not receive financial aid, so I am fully self-funded. Every tuition payment—roughly $1,000 per month—comes directly from my pocket. Without external support, I find myself having to pause my education periodically to work, save, and catch up on living expenses before I can return. This stop-and-go approach slows down my progress and places additional stress on my ability to stay focused and succeed. I work full-time just to meet my basic responsibilities. My rent alone is high, and I also carry a car note, insurance, and day-to-day expenses that cannot be ignored. Paying for school on top of all of this stretches me beyond my limits. Despite these obstacles, I remain determined to achieve my goal of becoming a nurse. I know that this is the profession where I can truly make a difference—whether it’s providing compassionate care at the bedside, educating patients about their health, or standing in the gap for those who often go unheard. Being awarded a scholarship would mean more than just financial relief. It would be the support I need to stay consistent in my studies without interruption. It would allow me to remain focused on what matters most—learning, growing, and preparing to serve others. It would be the opportunity to complete my program in a timely manner and step into a role where I can start giving back to the very communities that have inspired my journey. This journey has tested me, stretched me, and forced me to rely on faith, discipline, and resilience. I have learned to value every step forward, no matter how small. I am not asking for a handout, but for a helping hand—something that can help bridge the gap between my passion and my purpose. With the help of a scholarship, I can stay the course and ultimately make a lasting impact in healthcare by bringing not only skill and knowledge, but also lived experience, empathy, and heart. ⸻

Caring for others has never been just something I do—it’s who I am. Becoming a nurse has always felt like an eternal desire rooted deep within me. All my life, I’ve been a caretaker in one form or another, whether supporting family, volunteering my time, or simply stepping up when someone needed help. For me, nursing is more than a career—it’s a divine calling. One of the most profound inspirations behind my journey into nursing is my great-grandmother. She was a strong, healthy woman with no known medical issues—no history of asthma, heart problems, or anything concerning. She had been living in the United States with us, but she decided to return to our homeland in West Africa. About three months after her return, we received the heartbreaking news that she passed away in her sleep. She was found unresponsive, and due to our Muslim traditions, she had to be buried the very next day. Because of how fast things moved, there was little to no time for a thorough medical examination. What haunts me to this day is the belief that she might not have been truly gone when she was found. She could have been in a deep sleep or even a coma, but in a country where access to timely and accurate healthcare is limited—even with educated doctors and nurses—I believe her condition may have been misdiagnosed or not addressed at all. The “what-ifs” still linger. I’ve also lost other family members due to preventable or misunderstood medical issues, all of which have left a lasting impact on me and further pushed me to pursue nursing. These personal losses didn’t break me—they motivated me. They gave me a mission: to become a nurse who provides the kind of care that can change or even save lives. I don’t want another person to suffer because they didn’t receive the attention or compassion they deserved. That’s why I’ve committed myself to the nursing path, not just to heal physical ailments, but to be a voice, an advocate, and a source of comfort for my patients. I am especially passionate about holistic nursing, and I hope to specialize in caring for either children or the elderly—two vulnerable populations that deeply resonate with me. I believe healing is not just physical; it’s emotional, spiritual, and mental. I want to be the kind of nurse who sees the whole person and treats them with dignity, respect, and genuine care. From caregiving roles to community service and even in my daily life, everything I’ve done has prepared me for this journey. Nursing isn’t just a job I want—it’s a purpose I feel led to fulfill. I found out about this scholarship through my school’s financial aid office. ⸻

⸻ From a young age, I felt a deep compassion for others, especially those who were sick, elderly, or in pain. Growing up, I often found myself drawn to caregiving roles within my family and community. My natural empathy, combined with a strong desire to make a real difference in people’s lives, led me to pursue a career in healthcare. Over the years, I have worked as a medical assistant and a patient care technician, roles that strengthened my commitment to the healthcare field and solidified my decision to pursue further education in nursing. My journey into healthcare has not been linear. I began studying nursing in my early twenties but had to pause my education to raise my sons. Despite the challenges, I never let go of my dream. I returned to school years later, earning my associate degree and then my bachelor’s degree. Now, as a nursing student at FVI School of Nursing, I am committed to completing my associate degree in nursing and becoming a registered nurse. Balancing school, work, and family responsibilities has been difficult, but it has also shaped me into a resilient and determined individual who is ready to serve others with compassion and integrity. My future career goal is to become a registered nurse and specialize in either geriatrics or community health. I have a strong interest in serving vulnerable populations—especially the elderly, those in underserved communities, and individuals facing chronic conditions. I also hope to use my experience and skills to support humanitarian efforts through my non-profit foundation, which advocates for widows, orphans, and those in need of healthcare in my home country in West Africa. In the long term, I hope to open a wellness clinic that offers both preventive care and education to help improve long-term health outcomes. Ultimately, I see nursing not just as a profession but as a calling. It is a path that allows me to combine my passion for care with the science of healing. I aspire to continue my education beyond the RN level, eventually becoming a nurse practitioner, so I can offer more advanced care and participate in shaping healthcare solutions in both local and global communities. Education in healthcare has given me a renewed sense of purpose. With every step forward, I am not just building a career—I am fulfilling a mission to serve, heal, and empower others through both knowledge and action.

⸻ Why I Chose to Pursue a Degree in Healthcare and How I Hope to Make a Positive Impact as a Woman in the Field My decision to pursue a degree in healthcare comes from a deep-rooted calling to serve others, especially the most vulnerable among us. For over a decade, I have worked as a Patient Care Technician, walking alongside patients during some of their most difficult and vulnerable moments. Each experience—whether it involved holding a patient’s hand in silence, advocating for their comfort, or being the calm presence in a chaotic situation—has reinforced my passion for healthcare. Now, I’m taking the next step by advancing my education to become a nurse. As a woman, a mother, and a caregiver, I bring empathy, resilience, and lived experience into every room I enter. My healthcare journey started early in life after becoming a mother at a young age. Though I had to pause my studies to raise my sons, the dream never left me. I returned to school years later, completing my associate and bachelor’s degrees, and I am now working toward becoming a registered nurse. My path hasn’t been easy—I’ve juggled multiple jobs, endured long shifts, and faced financial struggles—but I have never given up. Every sacrifice is fueled by a desire to care, heal, and serve. What inspires me most about healthcare is the opportunity to make a meaningful difference, not just physically but emotionally and spiritually. I see healthcare as more than administering medications or documenting symptoms; it’s about listening deeply, showing compassion, and being a source of strength. As a woman in healthcare, I believe my nurturing instincts, combined with professional training, allow me to create a unique and lasting impact on the people I serve. Looking ahead, I hope to use my role not only at the bedside but also within my community and beyond. I’m passionate about serving the elderly, supporting widows, and improving access to care in underserved areas. I lead a small foundation that provides outreach to orphanages and widows in West Africa, and I plan to expand our efforts to include basic healthcare services. With my nursing degree, I will be better equipped to implement health education, preventive care, and advocacy for populations often overlooked. Representation matters in healthcare, and as a woman—particularly a Black woman—I want to be a role model to others who come from similar backgrounds. I want to show younger women that it’s never too late to follow your calling, that strength and compassion can coexist, and that our voices matter in shaping the future of healthcare. In conclusion, my journey into healthcare has been one of purpose, persistence, and passion. I am not just pursuing a degree—I am answering a lifelong calling. With every skill I gain, I intend to serve others with excellence and uplift communities with dignity and care. My impact will be measured not only in clinical outcomes but in the lives I touch along the way.

Why the Nursing Industry Interests Me as a Career Choice From an early age, I felt called to serve and care for others, and that inner drive has only grown stronger over time. Nursing represents more than just a career to me—it is a lifelong mission rooted in compassion, healing, and purpose. The ability to comfort, advocate, and support patients during their most vulnerable moments is both humbling and empowering. The nursing industry interests me because it offers a deeply human connection while allowing me to contribute meaningfully to society. My journey toward becoming a nurse has not been traditional, but it has been purpose-driven. I started my nursing education at the age of 20, shortly after having my first son. However, life circumstances required me to pause my academic journey to provide for my family. During that time, I never let go of my passion for healthcare. I continued to work in the medical field as a medical assistant and later transitioned to working as a patient care technician in the hospital setting. For over ten years, I’ve gained hands-on experience supporting nurses, assisting patients, and observing the vital role that nurses play in patient recovery and care coordination. In 2017, I returned to school to complete my associate degree from Broward College and later earned my bachelor’s degree from Florida Atlantic University in 2022. Even while exploring opportunities in health administration, I couldn’t shake the calling of direct patient care. That’s why I made the decision to return to school once more, this time to complete my Associate Degree in Nursing at FVI School of Nursing, with the ultimate goal of becoming a registered nurse. Throughout this journey, I have juggled triple shifts, managed financial hardship, and cared for my family while pursuing my dream. One of my proudest accomplishments is never giving up, even when it felt like everything was working against me. I’ve also become an advocate for others, running a foundation that supports widows, orphanages, and healthcare initiatives in my home country in West Africa. In addition to my professional and academic experiences, I’ve also been shaped by personal health situations that have made me more empathetic and attuned to patient needs. As someone navigating the changes of perimenopause while working and studying, I’ve developed a deeper appreciation for holistic care, patient education, and the importance of culturally competent healthcare. My goals for a successful nursing career include working in critical care or emergency nursing, obtaining my RN license, and eventually pursuing a Nurse Practitioner certification. I want to be a leader in patient advocacy and contribute to improving healthcare access in underserved communities, both in the United States and abroad. Nursing is not just a career for me—it’s a calling I’ve returned to time and time again. Every challenge I’ve faced has prepared me to be a better, stronger, and more compassionate nurse. I am ready to serve, to heal, and to make a lasting impact in the lives of others.

⸻ From Wounds to Wisdom: My Journey Back to Nursing At the age of 20, I began my nursing journey while raising my first son as a young mother. Life’s demands pulled me in many directions, and I had to step away from school to care for my growing family. Though I worked as a medical assistant and later became a patient care technician, the dream of becoming a nurse never left me. Today, over two decades later, I am back in the classroom—not just as a student, but as a woman transformed by resilience, faith, and a calling to serve others. My experiences have shaped me into a deeply empathetic caregiver. Working over ten years in hospital settings, I’ve seen suffering, strength, and healing firsthand. I’ve walked alongside patients and families through their hardest days, and I’ve done it with a heart full of compassion and hands ready to help. These experiences have reinforced my belief in dignity, patience, and advocacy—values that not only guide my work but also my life. Going back to school has not been easy. I am now in the associate degree in nursing program while balancing 12-hour shifts as a patient care technician. I also support my nonprofit foundation that advocates for widows, orphanages, and vulnerable populations in my home country in West Africa. Financially, I am stretched thin—working triple shifts and applying for scholarships—because I have exhausted my financial aid and have no loan options. Still, I press forward because I know my education is the key to unlocking not just my future, but the future of others I am committed to serve. My career aspirations go beyond becoming an RN. I envision myself becoming a nurse educator and community health advocate, focusing on underserved communities both in the U.S. and abroad. I want to bridge the gap between healthcare and the people who need it most. With my education, I plan to expand my foundation to provide mobile healthcare services for the elderly and medically underserved, combining my cultural roots with my clinical skills to deliver meaningful care. This scholarship would be more than financial assistance—it would be a lifeline. It would allow me to reduce my work hours and dedicate more time to studying, ensuring I master the knowledge and skills required to become a safe and effective nurse. It would bring me one step closer to achieving my dream and continuing the mission I’ve already started: to uplift, heal, and advocate for those who are often overlooked. I am not just pursuing a degree—I am reclaiming a dream that never died. I’m proving to myself, my children, and my community that it’s never too late to answer your calling. With your support, I will complete my nursing education, serve with excellence, and give back tenfold—because I know what it’s like to need a hand and what it means to be someone’s hope. ⸻

⸻ Caregiving, Growth, and the Power of Support Caregiving has been a central part of my life, shaping not only what I do, but who I am. For the past four years, I’ve worked as a Patient Care Technician at Memorial Healthcare System, where I assist patients with daily care, monitor vital signs, and offer emotional and physical support throughout their hospital experience. Outside of work, my caregiving role continues in the community. I assist an elderly neighbor whose husband, Larry, requires regular care. His wife is frail and often overwhelmed, so I step in to ensure Larry is clean, comfortable, and cared for—particularly in the evenings when his needs are highest. This act of service began as a one-time favor, but over time, it became part of my daily life. For me, caregiving is more than a job or duty; it’s a calling and a way of life. This calling has transformed me. Raising my two sons as a single mother taught me early on about sacrifice and persistence. My journey in healthcare began decades ago when I became a medical assistant to provide for my family. I later earned my associate degree from Broward College and my bachelor’s from Florida Atlantic University. Still, nursing remained in my heart as my true passion. After a long pause in my career path to care for my family, I returned to school, determined to finish what I started. I am now completing my associate degree in nursing at FVI School of Nursing, with hopes of becoming a registered nurse. The caregiving experiences I’ve had—whether in a hospital room, at a neighbor’s bedside, or inside my own home—have built in me a strong sense of purpose. I’ve learned to listen deeply, to advocate fiercely, and to work with compassion no matter the setting. These moments have shown me the real impact of small acts of care, and they’ve reinforced my commitment to serving others through nursing. I’ve also grown in empathy, discipline, and cultural sensitivity, which I believe are just as important in healthcare as clinical skills. Beyond my nursing career, I run a small nonprofit foundation that supports widows, orphanages, and humanitarian needs in my home country in West Africa. My vision is to eventually expand the foundation’s reach to include healthcare services for the elderly and underserved. My work as a caregiver and a nursing student has given me a firsthand understanding of how desperately care is needed—not just in hospitals, but in homes and communities around the world. I want to be a nurse who not only provides care, but also creates systems of care that uplift others. Receiving this scholarship would mean more than financial relief—it would be an investment in someone who is already actively serving and intends to do even more. With my financial aid exhausted and no access to loans, I have been working triple shifts to fund my education. I am currently on light duty at work due to an injury, which has limited my hours and increased the financial pressure. Despite this, I push forward, knowing that nursing is not just my dream—it’s my destiny. This scholarship would allow me to dedicate more time to studying and preparing for clinicals without the constant stress of tuition payments. It would give me the space to continue supporting those around me—patients, neighbors, and my family—while keeping my educational goals on track. Most importantly, it would remind me that my journey as a caregiver, though challenging, is seen and valued. In every role I’ve played—mother, tech, student, neighbor—I’ve poured my heart into caring for others. With the support of this scholarship, I can take the next step in my nursing career and continue my mission to bring compassion and healing to those who need it most. ⸻

⸻ My name is Mayatu, and nursing has always been more than a career goal for me—it’s a calling deeply rooted in my life experiences. I began my nursing journey at the age of 20, shortly after giving birth to my first son. Although I was passionate about becoming a nurse, I had to put my dreams on hold to raise my children and support my family. Life led me through different roles in healthcare, including working as a medical assistant and currently as a patient care technician at Memorial Healthcare System, where I’ve gained over ten years of hands-on experience in the hospital setting. Despite the demands of motherhood and work, my passion for nursing never faded. I returned to school in 2017 and earned my associate degree from Broward College, followed by a bachelor’s degree from Florida Atlantic University. In 2023, I made the decision to fully pursue my nursing license and enrolled in the Associate Degree in Nursing program at FVI School of Nursing. This step required tremendous sacrifice—financially, physically, and emotionally—but I believe it’s the path I was always meant to take. I work three 12-hour hospital shifts each week while also balancing intense study sessions. I’m currently on light duty under Worker’s Comp, which has allowed me to stay engaged with patient care while focusing more deeply on my coursework. Despite limited financial resources—having exhausted financial aid and being ineligible for additional loans—I continue to push forward. I am applying for scholarships and other support, because I know the impact I can make as a nurse will be worth every obstacle I’ve overcome. The area of nursing I plan to specialize in is geriatric and palliative care, with a strong interest in community health. I have always felt a deep connection with the elderly and those facing chronic illnesses or end-of-life care. My heart is in advocacy and compassion, especially for vulnerable populations. I also run a small nonprofit foundation that supports widows, orphans, and underserved communities in my home country in West Africa. Eventually, I hope to provide healthcare services through my foundation to the elderly and those who are often forgotten. My preparation for this journey has been rooted in both academic and real-world experience. I’ve studied pharmacology, anatomy, and patient care, but I’ve also practiced empathy at the bedside—comforting patients, listening to families, and working alongside nurses and physicians in high-pressure environments. I’ve developed strong communication and critical thinking skills and learned how to stay grounded even in the most difficult circumstances. I’ve also taken care of myself to stay mentally and physically prepared for this career. From clean eating and intermittent fasting to listening to medical audiobooks during my downtime, I stay focused and committed to growing every day. My family, especially my two adult sons, continue to be a great source of support and motivation. They remind me why I started—and why I must finish. In the end, nursing is not just what I do—it’s who I am. I am excited about the journey ahead, and I’m ready to continue serving others with skill, compassion, and purpose. ⸻

⸻ Why I Am Passionate About Nursing, What I Hope to Gain from This Career, the Area of Nursing I Aspire to Enter, and the Impact I Plan to Make in My Specialty My passion for nursing stems from years of working closely with patients in various healthcare settings, starting as a medical assistant. It was during my early years working in pediatrics that I first discovered the deep fulfillment that comes from caring for others, especially children. I found joy in comforting scared little ones during their visits, being a support system for worried parents, and truly making a difference in their healthcare experience. Pediatrics captured my heart, and that passion has stayed with me throughout my journey in healthcare. Over time, as I gained more experience, I also developed a strong connection with the elderly population while working in medical clinics. I saw firsthand how vulnerable both children and the elderly can be when it comes to their health. These two groups — the very young and the aging — became my passion. Both require patience, compassion, advocacy, and a special kind of care that I am drawn to provide. They are often the most overlooked and the most in need of a caring hand and listening ear. As I move forward in my nursing career, I hope to continue serving in a specialty where I can care for these two groups. Whether I find myself in pediatric nursing or working with geriatric patients, my goal is to be a nurse who not only treats conditions but also provides emotional support, education, and comfort to patients and their families. I want to create a safe space where children feel brave and the elderly feel valued and respected. Nursing, to me, is more than just a profession — it’s a purpose-driven career that allows me to make an impact on individuals, families, and communities. What I hope to gain from this career is the ability to be a voice and advocate for those who may not always be able to speak for themselves. I want to gain the skills, knowledge, and leadership it takes to make lasting changes in the lives of my patients. Whether it’s easing the fears of a child or ensuring that an elderly patient feels heard and cared for, I want every patient interaction to matter. My ultimate goal is to specialize in either pediatric or geriatric nursing, or ideally a setting where I can serve both populations. I envision myself educating families, advocating for better patient care, and being a consistent source of compassion and strength. The impact I hope to make in my specialty is to bridge the gap in healthcare disparities for these vulnerable groups, ensuring they receive the best care possible — care that treats the whole person, not just the illness. Nursing is my calling, and I am committed to leaving a lasting impact wherever I serve. By combining my passion, experience, and continued education, I know I can make a difference in the lives of the children and elderly patients I care for — one patient, one family, and one community at a time.

⸻ My Journey to Nursing: Overcoming Challenges and Following My Calling My journey to nursing began at the age of 20, shortly after having my first son. With a deep desire to build a stable future for us, I started my nursing education. Unfortunately, life had other plans. As a young mother navigating the challenges of parenthood, I had to put my dreams on hold for over 20 years. During that time, I worked as a medical assistant while raising my two sons. Though I found fulfillment in the healthcare field, I always knew deep down that nursing was my true calling. In 2017, I made the life-changing decision to return to school and reclaim the dream I once set aside. From 2017 to 2019, I earned my associate degree from Broward College. Determined to keep going, I continued my education and obtained my bachelor’s degree from Florida Atlantic University between 2020 and 2022. After completing my degrees, I tried to transition into a position within the health and administration department, believing it might be the best fit for my new credentials. However, no matter how much I tried to shift my path, nursing kept pulling at my heart. I realized that caring for others in their most vulnerable moments was where I truly belonged. Today, I am fully committed to finishing what I started years ago. I am currently enrolled in an associate degree nursing program while working as a patient care tech. The experience has solidified my belief that nursing is more than a career — it is my calling. However, the journey has not been without obstacles. My financial aid has been exhausted, and I have no way of securing loans to help me complete the program. To cover my tuition and expenses, I am working triple shifts, which has been physically and emotionally draining. The struggle is real, and at times, it feels impossible to keep up. Still, I refuse to give up. I am applying for scholarships because I know every bit of financial help will get me closer to achieving my dream. Nursing is not just a profession for me — it is the fulfillment of a lifelong purpose. My journey has been long, filled with setbacks and sacrifices, but I am determined to see it through. This is more than just a degree; it’s a promise to myself, my family, and the many lives I hope to impact as a nurse. I know I am destined for this path, and with the right support, I will get there.

⸻ Why I Chose the Field of Healthcare and How I Plan to Use My Degree in the Future The decision to pursue a career in healthcare was not made overnight; rather, it was a journey shaped by personal experiences, my passion for helping others, and the desire to make a meaningful impact in people’s lives. Growing up, I witnessed firsthand the critical role healthcare professionals play in communities, particularly in underserved areas where access to quality care is limited. Watching my own family members struggle with chronic illnesses and navigate the complexities of the healthcare system opened my eyes to the importance of compassionate, knowledgeable, and patient-centered care. These experiences planted a seed of purpose in me, ultimately leading me down the path of nursing. Nursing, in particular, drew me in because of its holistic approach to patient care. Nurses are often the bridge between patients and the rest of the healthcare team. They provide comfort, advocate for patients, and play a vital role in their physical, emotional, and psychological well-being. I was inspired by the idea that nurses don’t just treat illnesses—they care for the person as a whole. The level of trust patients place in nurses is something I deeply respect, and I knew I wanted to be part of a profession that offers that kind of impact and human connection. My decision to study nursing was also driven by my long-term goal of combining clinical practice with humanitarian work. As someone with strong ties to my home country in West Africa, I have seen how lack of healthcare resources and education can devastate families and entire communities. My dream is to use my nursing degree not only to work in hospitals and healthcare settings in the United States but also to expand my reach through global health initiatives. I envision myself leading health education programs, creating outreach services for women and children, and providing care to vulnerable populations in both my local community and abroad. In the future, I also plan to use my degree to advocate for better healthcare policies and to educate people about disease prevention, especially in communities with limited knowledge about chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and reproductive health. By becoming a nurse, I hope to bridge the gap between knowledge and access, empowering people to take control of their health and make informed decisions. Ultimately, my goal is not just to earn a degree but to use it as a foundation for a lifetime of service. I want to be a nurse who listens, advocates, and heals. I hope to grow into a leader who inspires others in the healthcare field and builds programs that serve the underserved. Whether it’s at a patient’s bedside, in a classroom, or within a community organization, I am committed to making a difference. Nursing is more than a career for me; it is my calling, my passion, and my opportunity to create positive change in the world.

Why I Want to Pursue a Degree in Nursing My journey toward nursing has been shaped by both personal experiences and over a decade of working as a patient care technician /medical assistant in a hospital setting. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working alongside dedicated nurses who provide not only expert medical care but also compassion and advocacy for their patients. Observing their ability to comfort distressed individuals, make critical decisions under pressure, and navigate complex medical situations has deeply inspired me. I realized that I wanted to do more—to take on a greater role in patient care, make a lasting impact, and contribute more meaningfully to healthcare. My passion for nursing is also deeply personal. Growing up, I witnessed the challenges that many individuals face in accessing quality healthcare, particularly in underserved communities. This reality instilled in me a strong desire to be part of the solution. I want to be the kind of nurse who not only provides exceptional bedside care but also empowers patients through education and advocacy. Nursing offers the perfect blend of science and compassion, allowing me to combine my technical skills with my natural inclination to help others. One of the aspects of nursing that excites me the most is its dynamic nature. Medicine is constantly evolving, and nurses play a crucial role in integrating new knowledge and practices into patient care. The opportunity for lifelong learning and professional growth is something I deeply value. I look forward to expanding my expertise, whether by specializing in a particular field, engaging in research, or taking on leadership roles that can drive positive change in healthcare. Beyond my professional aspirations, I also see nursing as a means to further my humanitarian work. As the founder of a small foundation that supports widows, orphanages, and humanitarian services in my home country in West Africa, I have firsthand knowledge of the healthcare disparities that exist in many communities. With my nursing degree, I hope to incorporate medical outreach into my foundation’s mission, providing much-needed healthcare services, preventive education, and resources to those who would otherwise go without. Additionally, I want to contribute to my local community by advocating for better healthcare access, especially for the elderly and underprivileged populations. I have a strong interest in holistic and preventive care, understanding that early intervention and patient education can significantly improve health outcomes. As a nurse, I aim to bridge gaps in care by promoting wellness, helping patients manage chronic conditions, and ensuring that individuals have the knowledge and support needed to lead healthier lives. Nursing, to me, is more than just a career—it is a calling. Through dedication, compassion, and a commitment to lifelong learning, I aspire to be a nurse who not only heals but also uplifts and empowers the communities I serve.

⸻ Why I Want to Pursue a Degree in Nursing For over a decade, I have worked as a patient care technician/medical assistant in the hospital setting, gaining firsthand experience in patient care and developing a deep appreciation for the nursing profession. During this time, I have worked alongside nurses who have demonstrated not only clinical expertise but also compassion, resilience, and dedication to improving patients’ lives. Their ability to make a difference—whether by comforting a distressed patient, advocating for better care, or skillfully managing complex medical situations—has inspired me to take the next step in my career. I have always been passionate about helping others, and nursing provides the perfect opportunity to combine my love for healthcare with my desire to serve. As a nurse, I will be able to provide a higher level of care, make critical decisions, and have a direct impact on patient outcomes. Additionally, nursing is a field that continuously evolves, allowing for lifelong learning and professional growth. I am excited about the challenges and opportunities that come with this career, from honing my clinical skills to exploring specialized areas of nursing. Another driving factor in my pursuit of nursing is my interest in holistic and preventative care. I have personally seen how early intervention, patient education, and compassionate care can change lives. Nursing will enable me to go beyond bedside care and become an advocate for health and wellness, particularly among underserved populations. How I Hope to Contribute to My Community as a Nurse My passion for healthcare extends beyond the hospital walls. As the founder of a small foundation dedicated to supporting widows, orphanages, and humanitarian services in my home country in West Africa, I understand the importance of community-based healthcare initiatives. Many people in my community lack access to basic medical care, and I hope to use my nursing education to bridge that gap. One of my long-term goals is to incorporate healthcare services into my foundation, providing medical assistance, health education, and preventative care to those in need. Additionally, I want to contribute to my local community by advocating for better healthcare access, especially for the elderly and underprivileged populations. With my background in patient care and my future nursing degree, I aim to educate individuals on chronic disease management, proper nutrition, and overall wellness. Nursing is more than just a career for me—it is a calling. I believe that my experience, dedication, and passion for serving others will allow me to make a meaningful impact in both my immediate community and beyond. Through compassionate care, advocacy, and education, I aspire to be a nurse who not only heals but also empowers those I serve.

Resilience, Sacrifice, and the Pursuit of Nursing At 18,I became a mother. While most of my peers were thinking about prom and college applications, I was changing diapers, working multiple jobs, and trying to figure out how to provide for my two sons. Life took an even harder turn when their father was deported, leaving me as their sole provider. I was determined to give them a better life, but the road was anything but easy. I started my journey toward becoming a nurse as a young mother, balancing two jobs while attending school. However, life’s challenges forced me to put my education on hold—not for a year or two, but for nearly 15 years. I worked tirelessly, doing whatever it took to support my children, often sacrificing my own dreams along the way. But I never let go of the vision I had for myself. In 2017, I made the decision to return to school, knowing it would not be easy. Between 2017 and 2022, I earned two degrees—an associate’s from Broward College and a bachelor’s in Healthcare Administration from Florida Atlantic University—while working three 12-hour shifts in a hospital, a part-time job, and even a night-side job just to make ends meet. But I knew my journey wasn’t over—I wanted to be a nurse. That dream has kept me going despite the financial strain that makes every semester feel like an uphill battle. With financial aid exhausted, I now pay out of pocket for my nursing education. I apply for grants, loans, and scholarships, but resources are limited. Yet, I refuse to give up. Every step I take brings me closer to my goal of becoming a nurse, serving my community, and providing a better future for my family. This scholarship would be more than just financial assistance—it would be a lifeline. It would allow me to focus on my studies without the constant stress of how to afford tuition. It would bring me closer to the moment when I can finally put on that nursing uniform, not just as a student, but as a registered nurse who overcame every obstacle thrown her way. Thank you for considering my application and for the opportunity to turn my lifelong dream into reality. In conclusion, the challenges and disadvantages I have faced have shaped me into a stronger and more determined individual. While the journey has not been easy, each obstacle has fueled my resilience and commitment to growth. I sincerely appreciate the opportunity to apply, as it means a great deal to me. Thank you for your time and consideration.