My next-door neighbor was a nurse growing up; whenever my siblings, myself, or friends were injured, she always knew how to help us. I was always impressed by her extensive knowledge and her willingness to help. I knew I wanted to work in healthcare from a young age, and I believe she strongly influenced that decision. Before I began nursing school, I worked as a medical scribe for Scribe America over the summer. Working as a medical scribe exposed me to the healthcare field, and I witnessed first-hand how vital a nurse's role is in patient care. I heard many stories from patients about how a nurse made their condition/treatment more bearable and witnessed how fulfilling a career in nursing can be. I am the second oldest of five, and I helped my mom in any way I could with my three younger siblings growing up. I learned many caregiver skills from my mom during this time. All these factors in my life have influenced me to pursue a career in nursing. Recently, my dad's cousin lost their 4-year-old to cancer, and his parents always talk about how the nurses made their tragic experience better in certain aspects. The relationship that the nurses were able to form with him during his extended stay in the hospital eased the burden of having a terminally ill child. The nurses made his treatment more tolerable for him and made sure that he was always comfortable. They offered him stickers and treats when appropriate. They would allow him to listen to their hearts just as they would his--and in any photo his mom posted with a nurse, he was always wearing a big smile. The stories his mom would share inspired me to explore the pediatric healthcare field, and I am eager to begin this journey. Child care is something that I have always been around, and I believe every interaction they have influences who they will become. I aspire to positively impact every person I interact with, especially knowing how much this influences a child's future self and self-image. I know that I have acquired many skills and abilities over the last 23 years to provide the best possible care for my patients and their families. Whether treating pediatric patients long-term or just administering vaccinations to them, I will strive to go above and beyond. I am very passionate about healthcare and cannot wait to put all my knowledge and skills to good use.