In Oedipus Rex, Sophocles explores the tension between fate and free will, showing how human lives can be shaped by forces beyond our control while also emphasizing the importance of responsibility and self-awareness. At its core, the tragedy of Oedipus is not just about a king committing horrific acts, but about what it reveals regarding human nature: our ignorance, our desire for control, and the ways in which truth—even when painful—is necessary for growth. This story illustrates that the consequences of our actions, intentional or not, are inseparable from our identity, and that acknowledging and learning from them is the only path toward understanding ourselves. Oedipus, the king of Thebes, is portrayed initially as confident, intelligent, and determined. He takes pride in his ability to solve problems, most famously defeating the Sphinx and saving the city. Yet, as the play unfolds, he discovers a horrifying truth: he has killed his father, Laius, and married his mother, Jocasta. The narrative emphasizes that Oedipus could not have known the consequences of his actions, yet the devastating reality demonstrates that ignorance cannot prevent accountability. Sophocles uses this paradox to highlight a universal truth: humans often believe they are in control, only to discover that reality is far more complex and unforgiving than expected. The story forces us to confront the tension between what we can influence and what we cannot, teaching that humility and reflection are essential to living responsibly. One of the most striking aspects of Oedipus’ story is his relentless pursuit of truth. Despite multiple warnings, he insists on uncovering the reality of his past. This insistence ultimately leads to his suffering, yet it is also what elevates the story beyond mere tragedy. Oedipus’ commitment to knowledge, even at great personal cost, demonstrates that understanding—even painful understanding—is central to human growth. The lesson is clear: avoidance of truth may feel safer in the moment, but confronting reality is necessary to develop wisdom, maturity, and self-awareness. It also reminds us that truth is often intertwined with responsibility; once we know something, we cannot unlearn it, and we must face the consequences of our actions with courage and honesty. Sophocles also explores the concept of fate versus free will. Oedipus’ life is heavily influenced by prophecies that predict his crimes, and the play repeatedly questions whether his choices matter at all. Yet, the tragedy does not absolve him of responsibility. Oedipus acts out of ignorance, but he still must live with the outcomes of his decisions. This tension reflects a broader philosophical idea: while we may not control every circumstance, we do control our responses. Oedipus’ downfall is tragic, but it is also instructive—it teaches that awareness, reflection, and accountability are what distinguish humans from passive victims of circumstance. The play challenges readers to examine their own lives, asking: How often do we act without fully understanding the consequences? How do we respond when the truth is revealed, especially when it is uncomfortable or painful? Reading Oedipus Rex personally makes me reflect on the moments in my own life when I have acted without full knowledge or foresight. While I have never faced tragedies on the scale of Oedipus’, I recognize that small decisions, when ignored or made carelessly, can have unintended effects. The story encourages mindfulness and reflection, reminding me to consider not just my intentions but also the possible consequences of my actions. Oedipus’ tragedy is extreme, yet it mirrors a universal experience: humans are often unaware of the full impact of their choices until confronted with consequences. This story encourages me to cultivate responsibility, humility, and self-awareness in everything I do. Another powerful theme in the play is the relationship between suffering and growth. Oedipus’ realization of his crimes plunges him into despair, but it also grants him clarity. Through suffering, he achieves insight into his identity, human nature, and the limitations of control. Sophocles presents suffering not merely as punishment, but as a vehicle for self-understanding. This perspective resonates deeply because it reframes challenges in life—not as setbacks to be avoided, but as opportunities to learn, reflect, and grow. It’s a reminder that pain and mistakes are not meaningless; they are essential elements of the human experience, shaping character and fostering wisdom. Finally, Oedipus’ story emphasizes the importance of confronting uncomfortable truths rather than ignoring them. Jocasta’s initial denial of the prophecy and her attempts to avoid the truth contrast sharply with Oedipus’ determination. Her avoidance delays suffering temporarily but does not prevent it, illustrating that ignorance is not a shield from reality. In life, it is tempting to ignore or dismiss difficult truths, but Sophocles suggests that true understanding—and ultimately, peace—comes from facing reality directly. Oedipus’ willingness to confront the full weight of his actions, despite the personal cost, demonstrates courage and integrity. In conclusion, Oedipus Rex is a story that transcends its ancient context to offer lessons that are still relevant today. It explores the tension between fate and free will, the importance of self-awareness, and the value of confronting truth, even when it is painful. Oedipus’ tragedy teaches that while we may not control every circumstance, we are responsible for our choices and responses. For me, the story is a reminder to act thoughtfully, take responsibility, and face life’s truths with honesty and courage. The lessons of Oedipus are not only about tragedy—they are about growth, understanding, and the human capacity to learn from even the harshest experiences. By reflecting on Oedipus’ journey, I am inspired to approach my own life with awareness, integrity, and a commitment to making thoughtful choices, no matter how difficult the truth may be.

My name is McKaelah Bailey, and my plans for the future are rooted in a deep desire to care for others and make a meaningful impact in the world. From a young age, I have been drawn to helping people, whether through volunteering, mentoring, or simply offering support to those around me. This natural inclination toward empathy, combined with my curiosity and love for learning, has inspired me to pursue a career in nursing—specifically as a neonatal intensive care (NICU) nurse. Nursing offers the perfect balance of science, critical thinking, and human connection, and working in the NICU allows me to bring comfort, care, and hope to the tiniest lives during their most vulnerable moments. After graduating high school, I will attend the University of Alabama at Birmingham to pursue my nursing degree, and I hope to specialize in neonatal care so that I can make a lasting difference for infants and their families. Alongside my academic and professional aspirations, I am committed to personal growth and community involvement. I am constantly exploring new interests, whether through reading, writing, creating art, or discovering hobbies that challenge me to think differently. My family has been a constant source of support and inspiration, teaching me the importance of love, resilience, and giving back. In addition, I have worked to empower other young women who are interested in medicine through my advice platform, Girl Dial. Through mentorship, sharing resources, and encouraging girls to pursue their goals, I have learned that leadership is not just about guiding others—it is about inspiring them to believe in themselves and their abilities. Receiving this scholarship would be a transformative opportunity for me. It would ease the financial pressures of college, allowing me to focus fully on my education, hands-on clinical experiences, and community service. More than that, it would empower me to continue leading with empathy, curiosity, and purpose, and to use my skills and passions to make a tangible difference in the lives of others. This scholarship is not just financial support—it represents the opportunity to pursue my dreams without compromise and to lay the foundation for a career dedicated to service, compassion, and advocacy. I am committed to using every opportunity I am given to make a lasting impact. By supporting my education, this scholarship would help me achieve my goal of becoming a NICU nurse who not only cares for infants but also uplifts families and inspires young women in medicine. It would allow me to turn my passion into action and to dedicate my life to creating positive change, showing that with determination, heart, and guidance, even the smallest lives can thrive.

Why I Am Passionate About Nursing For as long as I can remember, I’ve had a natural instinct to care for others. I’ve always been the person who checks in, pays attention, and tries to step in when someone needs support. Over time, I began to understand that this wasn’t just a personality trait—it was a calling. Nursing became the perfect place where my compassion, my love for science, and my desire to serve could all come together. I’m passionate about nursing because it allows me to be present in people’s most delicate moments, and that is something I don’t take lightly. My dream is to become a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) nurse. The first time I learned about the NICU, I was struck by how fragile and powerful life can be at the same time. Caring for babies who are fighting their very first battles in life feels like an honor. I am especially drawn to the idea of being a steady, gentle presence for families who are terrified but hopeful. NICU nursing requires patience, detail, strength, and an enormous amount of heart—qualities I am committed to developing throughout my education and career. On my path to nursing, I have tried to surround myself with opportunities to serve, learn, and grow. Founding HERCharity has played a major role in shaping the kind of nurse I hope to become. Through HERCharity, I focus on uplifting girls and women, encouraging confidence, community, and kindness. It has taught me how meaningful it is to pour into others, to listen deeply, and to show up for people even in small ways. Those lessons translate directly into the nurse I want to be: someone who sees every patient as a whole person with fears, hopes, and a family behind them. HERCharity has helped me understand that service isn’t just something I do—it’s part of who I am. Through my nursing career, I hope to gain knowledge, confidence, and the ability to make a real impact wherever I work. I want to take every opportunity to grow—whether it’s learning new skills, collaborating with experienced nurses, or developing leadership abilities. Most of all, I want to connect with patients and families in a way that reminds them they’re not alone. Nursing, to me, is lifelong learning mixed with lifelong compassion. My impact in the NICU will come from how I care—with intention, gentleness, and advocacy. I want to focus on family-centered care, making sure parents feel supported and included in every step of their baby’s journey. I hope to promote practices that help infants develop stronger physically and emotionally, such as skin-to-skin contact, soft communication, and individualized care. Even the smallest actions can shape a child’s future, and I want to be the nurse who notices the little things that matter. Ultimately, I want my patients and their families to remember me as the nurse who cared with both skill and heart. Becoming a NICU nurse is more than a career choice; it’s the purpose I feel called to fulfill. Whether through nursing or through HERCharity, I want to continue making spaces safer, softer, and more hopeful for those who need it most.

Education has always been more than schoolwork to me. It has been my anchor, my escape, and my way forward. I am a firm believer that where you begin doesn’t have to define where you end up, and my education is the clearest example of that. From the moment I entered high school, I realized that learning—not just grades, but true understanding—would be the key to building the life I want. I didn’t grow up with every advantage, and I didn’t always have the easiest home environment, but I had determination. Education gave that determination structure. It helped me discover who I am, what I’m capable of, and what my future can look like if I stay committed. My freshman year was the first time I ever stepped into a medical class, and something clicked in me. It wasn’t just a passing interest; it felt like a calling. I loved learning about the body—how it works, how it heals, and how people depend on healthcare workers during their most vulnerable moments. That year, I told myself I was going to become a nurse one day. Now, as a senior, I’ve taken every medical course my school offers, and next semester I’ll begin my internship and earn my certification as a Patient Care Technician. Every class has helped me grow from being curious about nursing to understanding the responsibility, compassion, and strength it requires. Education didn’t just guide me toward a career—it gave me a sense of direction that I never had before. However, getting here hasn’t been simple. I’ve grown up balancing personal responsibilities, emotional stressors, and financial limitations, all while trying to stay focused in school. I’ve had to mature early, and I’ve learned how to keep pushing even when it feels like everything around me is heavy. There have been times where it felt like life was moving faster than I could keep up with, but school was the one place where I could breathe and think about my future instead of my circumstances. My challenges didn’t break me—they sharpened me. They taught me patience, resilience, and independence. They taught me how to believe in myself even when the situation around me felt uncertain. Those experiences are also the reason I want to work in healthcare. I’ve seen firsthand how a nurse’s compassion can change the entire feeling of a room. During difficult moments, nurses were often the ones who created calm when everything felt overwhelming. They didn’t just care for the patient—they cared for the family too. That made me realize I want to be that kind of support for others. I want to guide people through moments that are scary, confusing, or full of emotion. My dream is to become a NICU nurse. I’ve always loved babies, but NICU babies hold a special place in my heart. They are tiny, vulnerable, and strong in ways most people will never understand. The idea that I could be part of their healing, part of their journey, and part of the hope their families cling to is what motivates me every day. One day, I want to take that passion even further by opening my own clinic and starting a charity focused on NICU families. I want to help mothers and fathers who feel overwhelmed, scared, or alone. I want my education to become a tool for creating comfort, safety, and support for people when they need it most. Education has shown me what I’m capable of, but it has also shown me who I want to become. I want to be someone who lifts others up, who leads with purpose, and who makes a difference not only in her career but in her community. I’m already working toward that through my involvement in volunteer work, my leadership experiences, and the girl advice column I’m starting to empower young women. I want to use every part of my education—my medical training, my writing, my compassion, and my determination—to serve others. I know my journey hasn’t been typical, and it hasn’t always been easy. But everything I’ve overcome has shaped my ambition. I’m not just dreaming about a better future; I’m building it piece by piece. My education is more than a plan—it’s my foundation. It’s what keeps me moving forward, believing in myself, and trusting that the woman I’m becoming matters just as much as the future I’m working toward. With continued support, dedication, and opportunities like this scholarship, I know I can turn my goals into something real and meaningful—not just for myself, but for the people I hope to help one day.

My inspiration for nursing comes from the fact that caring for people feels natural to me. I’ve known since my freshman year that I wanted to be a nurse, and every class and experience since then has only made that feeling stronger. I’ve taken every medical class available, and next semester I’ll start my internship and earn my PCT certification. Being in those environments, learning more about the body, and seeing how nurses make such a real difference makes me feel like I’m stepping into the path I was meant for. I’ve always loved babies, especially NICU babies, because there’s something so powerful about their fight and their innocence. The idea that I could be one of the people helping them grow stronger motivates me every single day. Nursing lets me combine the two sides of me: the part that loves science, and the part that wants to show compassion and make people feel safe. I’ve also been inspired by my own experiences with healthcare. Watching how nurses treated my family during stressful times showed me how much kindness and patience matter. They weren’t just doing tasks — they were comforting us, explaining things, and helping us breathe again when everything felt overwhelming. I want to be that type of nurse, someone who brings peace into the room and makes people feel understood. For me, nursing isn’t just a career choice. It’s a calling. It’s something I’ve been preparing for, dreaming about, and working toward for years. I want to make a difference in people’s lives, and nursing is the clearest, most meaningful way for me to do that.When I think about “human touch,” I think about connection — the kind of connection that makes someone feel seen, understood, and cared for. It can be physical, like holding a hand or gently supporting someone who’s scared, but it can also be emotional. Sometimes human touch is your tone of voice, the way you listen, or the way you stay patient even when things are challenging. To me, human touch is one of the most important parts of nursing because patients don’t just need medical care, they need emotional comfort. When someone is vulnerable, worried, or in pain, they remember how you made them feel. A nurse’s presence can bring calm, hope, and reassurance in moments that feel heavy. That feeling can’t be replaced by machines, medicines, or charts. Human touch impacts patient care by building trust. When patients trust you, they communicate better, they relax more, and they feel less alone. It helps them feel safe enough to ask questions or admit when something feels wrong. It makes them believe that they’re being cared for as a whole person, not just a diagnosis. That emotional comfort even affects healing — stress goes down, confidence goes up, and patients tend to respond better to treatment. Wanting to work in the NICU makes human touch even more meaningful to me. Babies can’t speak up for themselves, so everything from your gentleness to your patience matters. Even the energy you bring into the room matters. NICU parents are going through something incredibly emotional, and the human touch they receive from nurses can give them strength they didn’t know they had. It can calm fears, build hope, and let them know they’re not alone in one of the hardest moments of their lives. For me, human touch is the heart of nursing. It’s the reminder that healing isn’t just physical. It’s emotional, comforting, and deeply personal.

My name is McKaelah Bailey, and I’m a high school senior preparing to take the next big step toward my dream of becoming a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) nurse. I’ve always been someone who finds purpose in helping others. Whether it’s volunteering in my community, comforting someone who’s having a bad day, or taking care of younger kids, I’ve always been drawn to care and compassion. That’s why nursing feels like the perfect fit for me—it combines my love for people with my desire to make a real difference. Growing up, I learned that small acts of kindness can go a long way. I’ve seen how a few words of encouragement or a helping hand can completely change someone’s day. Nursing, to me, is the ultimate way to live out that belief. I want to be there for people when they’re scared, in pain, or uncertain. The thought of caring for newborns who are fighting to survive and supporting families through those emotional moments motivates me to keep working hard toward my goals. Earning this scholarship would mean so much to me because it would help take some of the financial stress off my family as I start college. My parents have always encouraged me to chase my dreams, but I know how much of a burden college costs can be. Nursing school requires more than just tuition—it includes textbooks, uniforms, lab fees, and equipment like stethoscopes and supplies. This scholarship would make it possible for me to focus on my education instead of worrying about how to afford everything I need to succeed. I plan to attend the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) to major in nursing and work hard toward earning my Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). My long-term goal is to become a NICU nurse, but I also hope to eventually mentor other nursing students and encourage more young women to go into healthcare. I believe that the more compassionate nurses there are in the world, the better our communities will be. Receiving this scholarship would not only help me financially but also remind me that my hard work, faith, and determination are paying off. It would be a symbol of support—showing that others believe in my dream, too. I’m ready to give my best in college, learn from every experience, and use my education to serve others with care and heart. This scholarship would bring me one step closer to becoming the kind of nurse who makes a lasting difference in people’s lives, and that’s something I’ll be forever grateful for.

As a graduating high school senior, I’ve spent a lot of time thinking about what I want my future to look like. For me, it always comes back to one thing—helping people. I’ve always had a natural desire to care for others, and over the years, that desire has grown into a true calling. That’s why I want to become a nurse. Nursing combines everything that matters most to me: compassion, service, and the ability to make a real difference in someone’s life. I’ve always admired nurses for their strength and dedication. They are often the first to comfort patients in pain, the ones who stay calm in stressful situations, and the people who provide both medical and emotional support when it’s needed most. That balance of skill and compassion inspires me. I want to be part of a field that not only helps people heal physically but also gives them hope. The area of nursing that has captured my heart the most is neonatal intensive care (NICU). I’ve always had a soft spot for babies, but beyond that, I’m drawn to the purpose and meaning behind NICU nursing. These nurses care for the tiniest and most vulnerable patients—newborns who are fighting to survive and grow stronger. The work they do requires patience, knowledge, and an incredible amount of compassion. I want to be there for those babies and their families, offering both care and comfort during such a critical time in their lives. I know becoming a nurse will take a lot of dedication and hard work. There will be long hours of studying, intense clinicals, and moments that test my emotional strength. But I’m ready for that challenge. Nursing isn’t just a career I’m choosing—it’s a commitment to serve others. I want to learn everything I can, from anatomy and patient care to communication and leadership, so I can become the kind of nurse people can truly depend on. When I picture my future, I see myself in scrubs, walking into a hospital with confidence and purpose. I see myself holding a newborn’s tiny hand, comforting worried parents, and knowing that my presence makes a difference. That’s what motivates me to keep pushing forward. After earning my Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), I plan to work in a NICU, gain experience, and eventually mentor other nursing students. I also hope to give back to my community through volunteering and health education. My ultimate goal is to build a career that’s grounded in compassion, faith, and lifelong learning. Becoming a nurse isn’t just about having a job—it’s about living out my purpose. I want to bring healing, hope, and care to people when they need it most. That’s why I’m proud and excited to take the first step toward this journey through higher education.

Ever since I was little, I’ve always had a heart for helping others. Whether it was comforting a friend who was upset, helping around the house, or volunteering in my community, I’ve always found joy in caring for people. As I grew older, I started realizing how much of a difference kindness and compassion can make, especially in moments of fear or uncertainty. That realization led me to my dream of becoming a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) nurse. The idea of caring for babies who are fighting to grow stronger and supporting their families through such emotional times is something that truly inspires me. I’m committed to pursuing higher education because I know it’s the foundation I need to turn this dream into reality. Nursing isn’t just a career choice for me—it’s a calling. I want to be the kind of nurse who combines skill with compassion, who treats every patient with the same care and respect I’d give to my own family. Through college, I’ll gain the medical knowledge, clinical experience, and emotional strength it takes to handle the challenges of this profession. College also represents personal growth and independence for me. I’ve always been someone who sets goals and works hard to reach them. Between keeping up with school, volunteering, and preparing for my future, I’ve learned how to stay organized and determined even when things get stressful. I know that the transition to college will be a big step, but it’s one I’m ready to take. I’m looking forward to meeting people from different backgrounds, learning from professors who are passionate about their fields, and developing the confidence I’ll need as both a student and a future nurse. My long-term goal is to earn my Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and become a NICU nurse. After gaining experience, I hope to mentor other nursing students and encourage more young women—especially those from smaller communities—to pursue careers in healthcare. I also want to give back by volunteering at clinics or hospitals and helping educate families about caring for newborns and improving community health. I know the path to becoming a nurse won’t be easy. There will be long nights, tough exams, and emotional days in clinicals. But I believe that every challenge will help me grow stronger and remind me why I chose this path in the first place. Higher education is more than just a step toward a degree—it’s my opportunity to grow into the best version of myself: someone who serves, leads, and inspires others through compassion and dedication. With my degree, I’ll be able to bring hope and healing to those who need it most, and that’s what motivates me every single day.

From a young age, I’ve been drawn to helping people feel seen, safe, and cared for. Whether it was comforting a friend, volunteering, or organizing small acts of service, I always found purpose in being there for others. Over time, that desire grew into something more—something I wanted to dedicate my life to. That’s why I want to pursue a degree in nursing. Nursing, to me, represents compassion in action. It’s where science meets humanity, and where small gestures can make life-changing impacts. I plan to earn my Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at the University of Alabama at Birmingham and specialize as a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) nurse. When I first learned about the NICU, I was struck by the strength of the families and the incredible dedication of the nurses who work tirelessly to care for the most fragile lives. The idea of helping a baby fight for their first breath while supporting parents through some of their hardest days deeply moved me. That combination of skill, empathy, and trust is exactly the kind of work I want to do. Nursing is more than just a career—it’s a calling that requires both heart and discipline. I’ve always loved learning about the human body, but what excites me most about nursing is how it allows me to use that knowledge to connect with people. A nurse isn’t just someone who delivers medicine; they’re often the person holding a patient’s hand when they’re scared, celebrating small victories, and offering comfort in moments of loss. That kind of human connection is what makes nursing such a powerful and honorable profession. Outside of school, I’ve dedicated myself to helping others in ways that already reflect what I hope to bring to healthcare. I founded HERcharity, a youth-led project focused on spreading kindness and meeting needs within my community. I also serve as President of the Daughters of Liberty Society, an organization I started to help young women grow in confidence, leadership, and service. Through these experiences, I’ve learned how to organize, communicate, and most importantly—listen. I’ve seen firsthand how people open up when they feel heard and cared for. Those lessons will stay with me as I care for patients and families in the future. As a nurse, I hope to contribute to my community by being both a healer and an advocate. I want to be someone families can depend on—not just for medical help but for emotional strength and guidance. I also plan to continue my community service work by launching a charity called “Boo Boo-Bear,” which will support NICU families in Birmingham. The charity will provide essential items like baby clothing, diapers, and comfort gifts while offering emotional support groups and small tokens of appreciation for nurses. My dream is to build a bridge between the hospital and the community—showing families that they are not alone. Ultimately, I want to bring light to people when life feels dark. Nursing gives me that opportunity every single day. Whether I’m caring for a newborn, comforting a parent, or mentoring future nurses, I want my work to remind others that compassion still matters—and that one person’s care can ripple outward to touch countless lives. That is why I want to become a nurse: to serve, to comfort, and to heal with both my hands and my heart.

My name is McKaelah Bailey, and I’ve always been passionate about caring for others. I grew up watching people around me show kindness even when life wasn’t easy, and those moments taught me that compassion can completely change someone’s day—or even their life. One of the biggest influences on who I am has been my involvement in HERcharity and the Daughters of Liberty Society, two organizations I created to uplift and serve others. Through these experiences, I’ve learned the value of empathy, responsibility, and the power of showing up for people when they need support the most. My dream is to become a NICU nurse. The first time I learned about the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, I was deeply moved by the strength of the families and the dedication of the nurses who care for the tiniest, most fragile lives. I want to be part of that kind of healing—to offer not just medical care but emotional comfort to families facing fear and uncertainty. The experiences that shaped me—service, faith, leadership, and love—are the same ones that drive my passion for human health and wellness today. To me, empathy means stepping into another person’s world—feeling their fear, their hope, and their struggles—and letting that understanding guide how you respond. It’s not just about feeling sorry for someone; it’s about truly listening, respecting their experience, and using that awareness to care for them in a meaningful way. As someone who hopes to become a NICU nurse, empathy is at the heart of everything I want to do. The families in a neonatal unit are often living through one of the hardest moments of their lives. Their days are filled with uncertainty, exhaustion, and prayer. In that environment, empathy becomes more than a feeling—it’s a form of medicine. It’s what allows a nurse to notice when a mother needs reassurance or when a father needs someone to simply listen. It’s what reminds healthcare professionals that behind every monitor and every chart, there’s a story, a family, and a tiny life fighting to grow. I believe empathy also plays a huge role in teamwork and communication. In healthcare, no one can do everything alone. Doctors, nurses, and staff must support one another, and empathy helps build that trust. When we understand each other’s challenges and perspectives, we work together more effectively, creating a safer and more comforting space for our patients. Ensuring that my efforts are done through a human-centered lens means always seeing the person first and the condition second. In the NICU, this could mean learning each baby’s story, respecting every family’s values, and adapting care to their emotional and cultural needs. It means treating parents as partners in their baby’s care—explaining, comforting, and involving them in every step of the process. Outside the hospital, I’ve practiced empathy through HERcharity, a community initiative I started to help families and young women in need, and through my work with the Daughters of Liberty Society, where we focus on leadership and service. These experiences taught me how important it is to listen before acting—to understand people’s needs instead of assuming them. That’s a lesson I plan to carry into nursing for the rest of my life. Empathy is what transforms healthcare from a profession into a calling. It’s what keeps the “human” in health care. To me, it’s not just an emotion—it’s a lifelong practice of caring with both skill and heart.

Every person on Earth has the potential to change the course of humanity as we know it. If we all listened to those quiet voices of ideas and innovation that whisper into our ears late at night, how different of a society would we be? My name is McKaelah Bailey, and I’m a senior at a large high school in a small, close-knit town. My family has been stationed here for about a year and a half, and in that short time, I’ve learned a lot about adapting, growing, and finding new ways to connect with people. After I graduate, I plan to attend the University of Alabama at Birmingham to earn my Bachelor of Science in Nursing. My dream is to become a NICU nurse, where I can help care for premature and critically ill newborns while supporting their families through some of the hardest moments of their lives. Outside of school, I run my own charity and am starting a news column focused on inspiring and empowering young women to use their voices and create positive change in their communities. These projects have taught me that kindness is a ripple effect—when you put good into the world, it has a way of finding its way back to you. If I could start a new charity, it would be called “Boo Boo-Bear.” The mission would be to serve the families and babies in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at the main hospital in Birmingham. The first months of a baby’s life can be filled with uncertainty, fear, and hope. Parents often face sleepless nights and emotional exhaustion while their tiny miracles fight to grow stronger. Boo Boo-Bear would exist to bring warmth and comfort to those families—to remind them that they’re not alone. The charity would be supported through community donations such as baby clothing, diapers, socks, and comfort items like handmade blankets or cards. Each baby would receive their own stuffed bear, their Boo Boo-Bear, as a symbol of love and strength. Volunteers, after background checks, would visit to read and softly talk to the babies, not because the babies understand, but because love can be felt in every tone and touch. Boo Boo-Bear would also host support groups and events to give parents an outlet for hope and connection. We’d deliver thank-you cards, flowers, snacks, and small gifts to the NICU nurses who work tirelessly every day. And even after a family leaves the NICU, we’d stay in touch—celebrating milestones, offering encouragement, and continuing to walk alongside them in their journey. At the heart of it all, Boo Boo-Bear would represent what I value most: compassion, comfort, and community. Because even the smallest acts of care can make the biggest difference.

My dream of becoming a nurse started unexpectedly during my sophomore year of high school. It was a regular school day, and I was scrolling through YouTube Shorts without much thought when a video caught my attention. A nurse was using a soft brush to comb the hair of a newborn baby, and as the baby smiled, I melted. I’ve always had a soft spot for babies, but that video sparked something deeper in me. At first, I thought about becoming a pediatrician, but I quickly realized I wanted to be more hands-on—I wanted to care for patients, not just diagnose them. That’s when I knew nursing was the right path for me. Since that day, I’ve done everything I can to move toward that goal. I’ve taken nearly every healthcare class offered at my high school and plan to shadow a nurse this summer. Next year, I’m also planning to complete an internship to gain real-world experience. Each step I take confirms that I’m meant to be in this field. Nursing is the perfect way to combine my love of medicine with my nurturing nature. I hope to specialize in neonatal nursing, working in the NICU to care for premature and critically ill newborns. I want to be there for the tiny lives that need the most help—and to support their families during one of the hardest times they’ll ever face. I know this path won’t always be easy. Some days will be emotionally draining, and there will be moments of heartbreak. But even in those moments, I will keep going. I will give my all for every child, every time, because their lives matter. Helping just one baby go home healthy with their family would make everything worth it. I know the babies won’t remember me, but I’ll remember them. Each one will leave an imprint on my heart, and I’ll carry that with me throughout my career. I also hope to challenge the stereotype that younger generations lack drive or compassion. I want to prove that we are capable of great things—that we care deeply, and that we are willing to work hard for others. I want show that even as times and ideals change the human trait of empathy will always be part of our genetic make-up. And long after I’ve retired, I hope my journey inspires others to follow the same path, full of heart and purpose.