I am a first-year nursing student currently working as a CNA in the ICU, where I see every day how compassion, advocacy, and attentiveness can change outcomes for patients and families. Working at the bedside in such a high-acuity environment has strengthened my resilience, discipline, and commitment to becoming a nurse who provides skilled, compassionate care.
Becoming a mother to my baby girl, Olivia, transformed my sense of purpose. During labor and delivery, the care I received from Black nurses was life-changing. They made me feel seen, protected, and respected during one of the most vulnerable moments of my life. Their presence showed me how powerful representation in healthcare truly is and helped me discover my calling. While I was once unsure what specialty I wanted to pursue, I now know I want to work in labor and delivery so I can advocate for mothers and provide the same comfort and reassurance I received.
I am a strong fit for this scholarship because I am dedicated to my education, grounded in real-world clinical experience, and motivated to give back. While I am grateful to have one non-renewable scholarship covering my tuition this semester, I must continue applying for funding to remain in the program. Scholarship support would be used toward tuition, books, clinical supplies, and childcare, allowing me to focus fully on my studies while continuing to work toward becoming a registered nurse. These funds would directly support my ability to persist, succeed, and ultimately serve my community through compassionate maternal care.