
Hobbies and interests
Babysitting And Childcare
Driving
Medicine
Nursing
Anatomy
Movies And Film
Music
True Crime
Reading
Thriller
Drama
Romance
Young Adult
I read books multiple times per month
MiKayla Gans
1,405
Bold Points1x
Finalist
MiKayla Gans
1,405
Bold Points1x
FinalistBio
I am a first generation, undergraduate college student. I enjoy reading and listening to music in my free time. I am passionate about my education and succeeding in my classes. I like learning about science and history. My biggest goal in life is to become a pediatric nurse, I love caring for children and being around them.
Education
Justin F Kimball H S
High SchoolMiscellaneous
Desired degree level:
Bachelor's degree program
Majors of interest:
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Criminal Justice and Corrections, General
- Teaching Assistants/Aides
- Education, General
Career
Dream career field:
Medical Practice
Dream career goals:
To make a positive change in not only society but in the nursing field as well.
reservations manager
U-haul2023 – Present2 years
Sports
Cheerleading
Junior Varsity2018 – 20213 years
Public services
Volunteering
Texas Association of Future Educators — Helper2022 – 2023
Wieland Nurse Appreciation Scholarship
I chose to pursue a career in nursing because I’ve always felt the need to help people, especially those who feel unheard or unsupported. Growing up, I experienced what it’s like to go through hard times without a strong support system. That made me want to become the type of person others could depend on, especially when they’re at their most vulnerable. Nursing isn’t just a job to me,it’s a way to care for others in a way I wish I had during tough moments in my life.
What really inspired me was seeing how nurses treat their patients with not just skill, but kindness. A few years ago, someone close to me had to be in the hospital, and I saw how the nurses made a huge difference just by being there, listening, and showing care. Even though they were busy, they still found ways to make patients feel safe. That experience stuck with me. It made me realize that nurses aren’t just medical professionals,they’re emotional support systems, advocates, and healers all in one.
I plan to become a pediatric nurse because I love working with children. I want to be that comforting presence for kids going through scary or painful situations. Children are so strong, but they still need someone who will be patient with them and make them feel seen. I want to help them get through hard days with kindness and encouragement. I’ve always naturally connected with kids, and I feel like that’s where I can make the biggest difference.
To prepare, I’ve focused on keeping my grades strong and staying involved in things that connect to healthcare and service. I was in TAFE (Texas Association of Future Educators) for most of high school, where I got to do community service projects like sock and food drives to support people in need. Those experiences helped me build empathy, communication skills, and a better understanding of how to serve others. I know that nursing school will be a challenge, but I’m ready to work hard and keep learning.
I may not have had the smoothest path, but I believe my past has made me stronger and more understanding. I want to bring that compassion into my future career and be the kind of nurse that patients and families never forget,the one who took time, showed care, and made them feel human again.
I found out about this scholarship through my school counselor.
Kelly O. Memorial Nursing Scholarship
My name is MiKayla, and I’m a senior in high school who’s always had a heart for helping others. I’ve been through a lot in my life, and I think that’s what really made me want to become a nurse. I know what it feels like to not have support or stability, so I want to be that support for someone else—especially kids.
I plan to specialize in pediatric nursing because I love working with children. I’ve always been the type to look out for younger kids in my family or at school, and I naturally connect with them. I know hospitals can be scary, especially for little ones, so I want to be the type of nurse that makes kids feel safe, seen, and cared for.
What really sparked my interest in nursing was watching how nurses treated people I cared about. One time, someone close to me had to stay in the hospital, and I noticed how much of a difference the nurses made just by being kind and patient. It stuck with me. I realized I wanted to be that person—the one who makes things a little easier when everything else feels hard.
To prepare for this journey, I’ve taken my academics seriously. I’ve maintained good grades and focused on science-related classes that connect to nursing. I was also part of TAFE (Texas Association of Future Educators) for almost two years, where I did community service like food and sock drives for people in need. It gave me experience helping others and showed me how important it is to give back. I may not have direct medical experience yet, but I’ve built a strong mindset and work ethic that I know will help me in nursing school and beyond.
Even though I don’t have much financial support and things haven’t always been easy at home, I’ve kept pushing forward. I’ve learned how to keep going even when life is tough, and I think that strength will help me become the kind of nurse that doesn’t give up on people. I know this career won’t be easy, but I’m ready to put in the work, study hard, and keep learning.
In the future, I see myself working in a children’s hospital, making a difference in kids’ lives. I want them to remember me as the nurse who made them laugh, made them feel brave, and treated them with kindness. Nursing is more than just a job to me—it’s a way to heal and give hope.
Scorenavigator Financial Literacy Scholarship
Money has always been something I’ve had to think about carefully. Growing up, I wasn’t in a position where I could spend freely or not worry about finances. Right now, as a high school senior with little to no financial support and a single father, money is an even bigger concern. I know that college, bills, and everyday expenses are going to add up quickly, and that can be stressful.
I’ve had to learn how to budget and prioritize my needs over my wants. I don’t have the option to just buy things whenever I feel like it—I have to be smart about where my money goes. Even though it’s frustrating at times, it’s taught me the value of every dollar. I’ve learned that small choices, like saving instead of spending on unnecessary things, can make a big difference in the long run.
Financial education wasn’t something I was really taught in school, at least not in a way that felt useful. Most of what I know has come from personal experience, watching my dad manage our household, and doing my own research. I’ve started looking into things like scholarships, grants, and financial aid to help with college costs. I know that student loans are an option, but I want to avoid unnecessary debt as much as possible.
My financial situation has also made me think more about the kind of future I want. I don’t want to struggle my whole life. I want to be financially stable, independent, and able to afford not just the basics but also the things that make life enjoyable. That’s why I’m focused on my education and career. I know that becoming a pediatric nurse will give me the opportunity to earn a steady income while doing something meaningful.
One of my biggest goals is to learn how to manage my money wisely so I don’t end up in a cycle of stress and struggle. I plan to build good financial habits early, like saving a portion of every paycheck, creating a budget, and learning about investments. I also want to educate myself on credit—how to build it, use it responsibly, and avoid debt traps.
In the short term, I plan to apply for as many scholarships as possible, work part-time if I can, and take advantage of any financial resources available to me. In the long run, I want to reach a point where I don’t have to constantly worry about money. I want to be able to help my family, support myself, and one day provide a better life for my future kids.
Even though my current financial situation is tough, I see it as motivation. It’s pushing me to work harder, to be smarter with my money, and to take control of my future. I might not have a lot of financial support now, but I’m determined to build a life where I don’t have to struggle. Everything I learn about finances now will help me make better choices in the future, and that’s something I take seriously.
Sean Kelly Memorial Scholarship
My name is MiKayla Gans, and I am someone who believes in working hard, helping others, and always striving to be better. Education has always been important to me because I know it’s the key to a better future. I have big dreams, and I am willing to put in the effort to make them happen. One of my biggest goals is to become a pediatric nurse. I want to make a difference in children’s lives by giving them the care, support, and kindness they need when they are sick or in pain.
I have always had a soft spot for kids. I love being around them, making them laugh, and helping them feel safe. I know that going to the doctor or staying in a hospital can be scary for children, so I want to be the kind of nurse who helps them feel calm and cared for. Whether it’s by explaining things in a way they can understand, holding their hand during a tough moment, or just giving them a smile, I want to bring comfort to both children and their families.
My passion for nursing comes from seeing how much of a difference healthcare workers make. Nurses don’t just treat illnesses; they also provide emotional support, encouragement, and a sense of safety. I want to be that person for my patients. I want to be the nurse who not only helps children get better physically but also makes sure they feel seen and valued.
Beyond working in a hospital or clinic, I also want to help families who don’t have easy access to healthcare. Not everyone can afford doctor visits, and some communities don’t have enough medical resources. I hope to be part of outreach programs that provide free checkups, health education, and basic medical care to children and families who need it most. I believe that no child should suffer just because their family can’t afford healthcare.
Another way I hope to make a difference is by encouraging other young people who want to go into nursing. I know how important it is to have someone believe in you and push you to follow your dreams. I want to be that person for others, whether it’s by mentoring students, sharing my experiences, or helping people understand the importance of healthcare careers.
I know that becoming a nurse won’t be easy. The classes will be tough, and the work will be challenging, but I am ready for it. I am willing to study hard, learn as much as I can, and gain real experience so that I can be the best nurse possible. I don’t just want to get through school—I want to truly understand how to care for my patients in the best way.
At the end of the day, my goal is simple: to help people. I want to be there for kids when they are scared, to support parents when they are worried, and to use my skills to make life a little better for those who need it. Through my career in pediatric nursing, I plan to make a positive impact in both big and small ways. Whether it’s by providing medical care, reaching out to families in need, or inspiring future nurses, I want my work to matter. I want to leave the world better than I found it, one patient at a time.
Chris Ford Scholarship
My name is MiKayla Gans, and I am someone who believes in working hard, helping others, and always striving to be better. Education has always been important to me because I know it’s the key to a better future. I have big dreams, and I am willing to put in the effort to make them happen. One of my biggest goals is to become a pediatric nurse. I want to make a difference in children’s lives by giving them the care, support, and kindness they need when they are sick or in pain.
I have always had a soft spot for kids. I love being around them, making them laugh, and helping them feel safe. I know that going to the doctor or staying in a hospital can be scary for children, so I want to be the kind of nurse who helps them feel calm and cared for. Whether it’s by explaining things in a way they can understand, holding their hand during a tough moment, or just giving them a smile, I want to bring comfort to both children and their families.
My passion for nursing comes from seeing how much of a difference healthcare workers make. Nurses don’t just treat illnesses; they also provide emotional support, encouragement, and a sense of safety. I want to be that person for my patients. I want to be the nurse who not only helps children get better physically but also makes sure they feel seen and valued.
Beyond working in a hospital or clinic, I also want to help families who don’t have easy access to healthcare. Not everyone can afford doctor visits, and some communities don’t have enough medical resources. I hope to be part of outreach programs that provide free checkups, health education, and basic medical care to children and families who need it most. I believe that no child should suffer just because their family can’t afford healthcare.
Another way I hope to make a difference is by encouraging other young people who want to go into nursing. I know how important it is to have someone believe in you and push you to follow your dreams. I want to be that person for others, whether it’s by mentoring students, sharing my experiences, or helping people understand the importance of healthcare careers.
I know that becoming a nurse won’t be easy. The classes will be tough, and the work will be challenging, but I am ready for it. I am willing to study hard, learn as much as I can, and gain real experience so that I can be the best nurse possible. I don’t just want to get through school—I want to truly understand how to care for my patients in the best way.
At the end of the day, my goal is simple: to help people. I want to be there for kids when they are scared, to support parents when they are worried, and to use my skills to make life a little better for those who need it. Through my career in pediatric nursing, I plan to make a positive impact in both big and small ways. Whether it’s by providing medical care, reaching out to families in need, or inspiring future nurses, I want my work to matter. I want to leave the world better than I found it, one patient at a time.
Brittany McGlone Memorial Scholarship
Furthering my education is important to me because it’s the key to the future I want. I’ve always valued academics, and I know that getting a good education will open doors for me. My goal is to become a pediatric nurse, and I can’t do that without going to college and working hard to learn everything I need. Education gives me the chance to build a stable and successful life, not just for myself but for the people I care about. I want to be financially independent, and I don’t want to struggle in life. Learning helps me grow as a person, too—it challenges me, teaches me discipline, and pushes me to be better.
Art and music have always been an escape for me. Whether it’s listening to a song that matches my mood or looking at a piece of art that speaks to me, both help me express emotions that I might not have the words for. Music, especially, plays a big role in my life. Sometimes, I use it to hype myself up when I’m feeling unmotivated, and other times, it helps me calm down when I’m stressed. Certain songs remind me of good memories or people I love, and that connection makes me feel less alone.
Art, even though I’m not much of an artist myself, has the same effect. It’s like a way to see and feel emotions outside of myself. Whether it’s a painting, a movie, or even a well-written book, art can change the way I see things. It reminds me that beauty exists even in difficult times.
When I’ve gone through hard times, music has been one of the things that helped me cope. There were moments when I felt overwhelmed, and instead of talking about it, I turned to music. It’s comforting to hear lyrics that match what I’m feeling—it makes me feel understood. Sometimes, just putting in my headphones and blocking out the world for a little while is enough to help me reset.
Art and music have a way of making people feel seen. They remind me that emotions are universal, that other people have felt what I feel, and that I’m not alone. They also give me something positive to focus on. When I’m studying or trying to get through a tough day, music makes it easier to push forward. It’s like having a personal soundtrack that keeps me going.
Crime hasn’t affected me personally, but I know that for some people, it makes focusing on school a lot harder. Feeling unsafe or dealing with the effects of crime can be a huge distraction. I’m lucky that I haven’t had to deal with that, but I understand how it could take away from someone’s ability to learn. Having a safe environment makes a big difference when it comes to education, and I don’t take that for granted.
In the end, education, art, and music are all things that shape who I am. Education is my future, music is my comfort, and art reminds me to look at the world differently. They all play a role in helping me stay motivated, express myself, and keep moving forward, no matter what challenges come my way.
Julius Quentin Jackson Scholarship
Throughout my life, I have faced challenges that have shaped me into a determined, resilient, and ambitious individual. One of the biggest obstacles I have had to overcome is adapting to major life transitions while maintaining my academic excellence. In March 2024, I moved from Grand Prairie, Texas, to Little Rock, Arkansas, and then again in November 2024 to Dallas, Texas. Moving away from my father and other family members was difficult, as I had to adjust to a new environment, make new friends, and rebuild my support system while staying focused on my education. Despite these challenges, I remained committed to my academic success, ending my junior year with straight A’s and continuing to work hard as a senior. These experiences have reinforced my adaptability and perseverance—qualities that will be essential as I pursue higher education and a career in pediatric nursing.
Another challenge I have faced is maintaining a positive relationship with my mother. While she is not a negative force in my life, our relationship is complicated, and at times, it has been difficult to find the emotional support I need. However, this has taught me independence and self-motivation. I have learned to seek out positive influences within my family who encourage me to stay focused on my goals. These experiences have strengthened my ability to navigate personal challenges while keeping my aspirations in sight.
Financial struggles have also played a significant role in shaping my determination to succeed. The cost of higher education is a significant burden, and my family’s financial situation makes it difficult to afford tuition, textbooks, and other necessary expenses. As someone who values education deeply, I refuse to let financial limitations hinder my ability to achieve my dreams. I have worked hard to maintain strong academic performance, knowing that scholarships and financial aid are essential to making college a reality.
Receiving this scholarship would provide the financial relief I need to focus on my studies without the stress of overwhelming debt. It would allow me to dedicate my time to excelling academically and gaining the knowledge and skills required to become a pediatric nurse. My goal is to provide compassionate care to children and make a meaningful impact in the healthcare field. This scholarship is not just an investment in my education; it is an investment in the future of the children and families I will serve.
Ultimately, the challenges I have faced—moving multiple times, navigating family relationships, and dealing with financial hardships—have made me more determined than ever to succeed. They have taught me resilience, independence, and the value of perseverance. I am committed to overcoming any obstacles in my path and using my experiences to inspire and help others. With the support of this scholarship, I will be one step closer to achieving my goal of becoming a pediatric nurse and making a difference in the lives of those who need it most.
Sunshine Legall Scholarship
One of my main academic goals is to graduate high school with strong grades and enter college with a solid foundation in the medical field. I plan to pursue a degree in nursing, with the ultimate goal of becoming a pediatric nurse. This path requires dedication, hard work, and a strong understanding of both science and patient care. I am committed to excelling in my studies, gaining hands-on experience, and developing the skills necessary to succeed in healthcare. Beyond earning my degree, I hope to continue my education throughout my career by staying updated on medical advancements and techniques. Nursing constantly evolves, and I want to ensure I provide the best possible care to my patients by continuing to learn and grow.
In addition to my academic aspirations, I have professional goals that align with my passion for helping others. As a pediatric nurse, I want to work in hospitals or clinics where I can make a direct impact on children’s lives. I want to be the type of nurse who not only provides excellent medical care but also reassures children and their families during difficult times. In the long run, I hope to take on leadership roles in nursing, such as mentoring new nurses or working on community health initiatives focused on child healthcare.
My passion for helping others extends beyond my academic and professional goals—I have also given back to my community in meaningful ways. One of the most impactful experiences I had was through my involvement in TAFE (Texas Association of Future Educators). As a member, I participated in various community service projects, such as a sock drive for children in need and a food drive called “Service Bites of Kindness,” where we provided sack lunches to the Grand Prairie Homeless Outreach Organization. These experiences reinforced my belief in the power of giving back.
Through these service projects, I learned that even small acts of kindness can have a profound effect on others. When we distributed food to the homeless, I saw firsthand how a simple meal could bring joy and relief to someone in need. This made me realize how important it is to serve my community and inspired me to pursue a career where I can make a lasting difference. Similarly, the sock drive showed me how basic necessities many take for granted can be life-changing for others. Knowing that I helped children stay warm and comfortable during the winter was incredibly rewarding.
These experiences have motivated me to continue serving others throughout my life. In nursing, I will have the opportunity to help people every day, whether it’s by treating an illness, providing comfort, or educating families on how to care for their children. My community service experiences have shown me that compassion and dedication can transform lives, and I want to carry that mindset into my career.
Giving back to my community has also inspired me to think bigger about how I can make a difference in the world. Beyond working as a nurse, I hope to one day be involved in global healthcare initiatives that provide medical care to underserved communities. Whether it’s through volunteering at medical missions, advocating for better healthcare policies, or mentoring future nurses, I want to use my skills to contribute to a healthier, more compassionate world.
In the end, my academic and professional goals, combined with my commitment to community service, reflect my passion for helping others. I believe every person has the ability to make a difference, and I am determined to use my education and career to positively impact the lives of children and families.
Women in Nursing Scholarship
I want to be a nurse because I have always been passionate about helping others, especially children. Ever since I was young, I’ve had a strong desire to care for people, and over time, I realized that nursing would allow me to do that in a meaningful way. My goal is to become a pediatric nurse so I can support and comfort children during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. I know that being in a hospital can be a scary experience for young kids, and I want to be the kind of nurse who not only treats their medical needs but also reassures them and brings them a sense of comfort.
One of the biggest influences on my decision to pursue nursing is my own experience with healthcare. Growing up, I spent a lot of time around hospitals and doctor’s offices, whether it was for family members or myself. I saw firsthand how much of a difference compassionate nurses could make. Their kindness, patience, and dedication inspired me. I want to be that person for someone else—someone who not only provides medical care but also emotional support. Nurses are the ones who interact with patients the most, and they play a crucial role in making sure people feel safe and cared for. Seeing how nurses impacted my family made me realize how important they are in the medical field, and it made me want to be a part of that.
Another experience that shaped my decision was my involvement in community service. Through TAFE, I participated in projects like a sock drive for children in need and a food drive for the homeless. These experiences opened my eyes to the struggles people face and made me even more determined to work in a field where I can directly impact lives. During the food drive, I saw how grateful people were to receive something as simple as a meal. It showed me that even small acts of kindness can make a huge difference. This reinforced my desire to work in a profession where I can help others daily.
Additionally, I want to be a nurse because I value education and continuous learning. The medical field is always evolving, and I like the idea of constantly improving my skills and knowledge to provide the best care possible. Nursing is a challenging career, but I am willing to put in the effort because I know the impact it has on people’s lives.
Ultimately, nursing is more than just a career to me—it’s a calling. I want to be there for people when they need it most, and I believe that becoming a pediatric nurse will allow me to make a real difference in the world. Whether it’s comforting a scared child, educating parents, or assisting doctors, I know that nursing will allow me to fulfill my passion for helping others. I am excited about the journey ahead and look forward to dedicating my life to caring for those in need.
Lexi Nicole Olvera Memorial Scholarship
Nursing has always been a field that I have felt deeply drawn to, and I am passionate about pursuing a career in it because of the unique opportunity it offers to make a direct and meaningful difference in people's lives. From a young age, I have been fascinated by the idea of helping others, especially in moments of vulnerability and need. Nursing is a profession that allows me to care for people physically, emotionally, and mentally.
One of the main reasons I am passionate about nursing is the personal connection it fosters with patients. Unlike many other professions, nursing allows you to interact with patients on a one-on-one basis, often for extended periods. This personal connection is what makes nursing so powerful; it is not just about providing medical care but also offering compassion, empathy, and support. I believe a kind word or a comforting presence can make a world of difference to someone going through a difficult time, whether battling a chronic illness or recovering from surgery. I want to be the kind of nurse who not only treats the body but also listens to the concerns of the heart and mind.
Moreover, nursing demands lifelong learning and growth. Medicine and healthcare are constantly evolving, and nurses are at the forefront of adapting to new treatments, technologies, and care techniques. I find this aspect of nursing exciting because it challenges me to develop my skills and knowledge. The opportunity to work in a dynamic environment where every day brings new challenges is motivating. As someone who enjoys problem-solving and working under pressure, I am confident that nursing will offer the variety and excitement that will keep me engaged throughout my career.
Nursing is also a profession that allows for a wide range of specialties and career paths. Whether it’s working in pediatrics, emergency care, or hospice, nursing offers the flexibility to explore different areas of interest and make an impact in diverse ways. I hope to contribute to the field by providing excellent care and becoming involved in advancing nursing practices and advocating for patient rights. Nurses are often the most consistent point of contact for patients in healthcare settings, and I believe we are in a unique position to advocate for improvements in the healthcare system and ensure that patient voices are heard.
I am drawn to nursing because of the growing demand for healthcare professionals. With an aging population and increasing healthcare needs, the demand for nurses is higher than ever. By entering nursing, I know I will be part of a solution to meet these needs, and that sense of purpose excites me. Being a nurse means being on the frontlines of healthcare, and I want to contribute to ensuring that people receive the care they deserve, especially in underserved communities or times of crisis.
Ultimately, I hope to contribute meaningfully to the nursing profession by bringing my passion for patient care, my desire to learn, and my commitment to making a difference in the lives of others. I want to be a nurse who not only provides high-quality care but also advocates for my patients and works toward improving the healthcare system. The combination of personal fulfillment and the ability to make a positive impact on others' lives is what drives me to pursue a career in nursing.
Valentine Scholarship
Helping others in the community is an important way to make the world a better place. There are many ways to give back, whether through volunteering, donating, or simply being kind to those in need. Helping doesn’t always have to be something big; even small actions, like helping a neighbor or picking up trash, can make a difference. Community service not only helps those who receive it but also teaches valuable lessons to those who give their time and effort.
One time I helped my community was when I participated in a food drive called "Service Bites of Kindness." This event was organized to provide sack lunches to the Grand Prairie Homeless Outreach Organization. My role was to help prepare and pack lunches, making sure each bag had enough food and water. We worked as a team, making sandwiches, packing snacks, and writing kind messages. When we delivered the lunches, I saw firsthand how much people appreciated them. Some smiled and thanked us, while others looked relieved to have a meal. This experience made me realize how important it is to help people who may not have access to basic needs. It also taught me to be grateful for what I have and to always look for ways to give back and support others.
Another time I volunteered was during a sock drive that helped children in need. Many people don’t realize how important socks are, especially during the colder months, and how something as simple as a pair of socks can make a big difference. We collected socks of different sizes and colors and donated them to local shelters and schools. This experience was eye-opening because it showed me that even small things, which we sometimes take for granted, can mean a lot to those who don’t have them. It also made me understand that there are always ways to help.
From these experiences, I learned that giving back doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive. Even small acts of kindness, like donating food, clothing, or time, can have a huge impact. Helping others also gives a sense of accomplishment, knowing that your efforts have made someone’s day better. It teaches empathy, responsibility, and the importance of working together to solve problems.
There are many ways people can volunteer and help their communities. One great way is by helping at a local food bank by sorting or handing out food. Another way is by cleaning up parks or streets to keep the community looking nice. People can also volunteer at hospitals, nursing homes, or animal shelters to provide support and companionship to those who need it. Reading to children, tutoring students, or participating in charity events are other meaningful ways to make a difference.
Helping the community is important because it brings people together and creates a stronger, more caring society. If everyone took just a little time to help, even in small ways, the world would be a better place. My experiences with community service have shown me that kindness and generosity can have a ripple effect, inspiring others to do the same. I plan to continue volunteering and finding ways to give back because I know that no matter how big or small, every effort counts.
In conclusion, helping the community is not just about giving—it’s about learning, growing, and making a positive impact. Whether it’s through food drives, donation programs, or simple acts of kindness, everyone has the ability to make a difference. I encourage others to find ways to help, no matter how small, because even the smallest action can change someone’s life forever.
James Lynn Baker II #BeACoffeeBean Scholarship
Making a difference in my community has always been important to me. Even though I am one person, I believe small actions can create big changes. One way I have positively impacted my community is through volunteer work. Over the past few years, I have participated in several community service projects that have helped those in need and brought people together. These experiences have shown me that helping others not only improves their lives but also strengthens the entire community.
One of the most meaningful projects I have been a part of was a sock drive for children in need. Many people do not realize how important socks are, especially for kids who may not have enough clothing. During the winter, warm socks can make a big difference in keeping someone comfortable. My school and I collected donations and worked together to distribute them. Seeing the gratitude on the faces of the children who received the socks made me feel proud of what we had accomplished. It also made me more aware of the struggles some families go through and how something as small as a pair of socks can make an impact.
Another way I helped my community was by participating in a food drive called “Service Bites of Kindness.” This event focused on providing sack lunches for homeless individuals in my city. I worked with a group of volunteers to prepare and distribute meals. We packed sandwiches, snacks, and drinks and handed them out to those in need. Many of the people who received the meals expressed how truly grateful they were, and it made me realize how easy it is to take things like food for granted. This project taught me the importance of giving back and how small acts of kindness can brighten someone’s day.
Aside from organized volunteer work, I have also made a difference in my environment by encouraging people to be mindful of their surroundings. I have participated in cleanup efforts in my neighborhood and school, picking up trash and making sure public spaces stay clean. It may not seem like a big deal, but keeping the environment clean benefits everyone. When parks, streets, and schools look nice, people feel more connected to their community and take better care of it. Encouraging others to do the same has created a positive cycle where more people are willing to help out.
Through these experiences, I have learned that making an impact does not always require grand gestures. Sometimes, simple acts like donating socks, providing food, or cleaning up the environment can make a difference in someone’s life. I have also seen how kindness and generosity can spread from one person to another. When people see others helping, they are more likely to join in and do their part.
The change my actions have created in my community is not just in the people who received help, but also in those who participated. Volunteering has inspired others to get involved and has brought people together to work toward a common goal. It has also changed me by making me more aware of the struggles others face and the importance of giving back.
Moving forward, I hope to continue making a difference in my community by participating in more service projects and encouraging others to do the same. Even though I am young, I know that I can create change through small acts of kindness and by inspiring others to care about their community. I believe that when people work together to help those in need, it makes the world a much better place for everyone.
Norman C. Nelson IV Memorial Scholarship
From a young age, I have always been fascinated by the medical field. The idea of helping people, making a difference in their lives, and being a part of something bigger than myself has always inspired me. I want to become a pediatric nurse because I love working with children, and I know that they deserve the best care possible. Seeing how healthcare professionals provide comfort and hope to families in difficult times makes me want to be part of that impact.
One of my biggest inspirations for pursuing a career in the medical field is my passion for helping others. I have always been the type of person who wants to make people feel better, whether it’s a friend who is upset, a family member who is sick, or even a stranger who needs help. The medical field is one of the best ways I can do that on a larger scale. Pediatric nursing, in particular, interests me because children are so full of life and potential. Helping them recover from illnesses and injuries so they can grow up healthy and strong is something I deeply care about.
Another inspiration in my life is my personal experiences with healthcare. Whether it was visiting doctors, seeing how nurses cared for my family members, or even witnessing medical professionals in action, I have always admired their dedication and hard work. They show so much compassion and patience, even in stressful situations, and that has made a lasting impression on me. Nurses, especially, are often the heart of healthcare. They provide comfort, care, and kindness to patients, making sure they feel safe and supported. That is exactly the kind of person I want to be.
My family has also played a big role in inspiring me. They have always encouraged me to follow my dreams and work hard for what I want. Growing up, I was taught the importance of education, determination, and kindness. These values have shaped who I am today and have guided me toward the medical field. My parents, teachers, and mentors have all supported me in my goal of becoming a pediatric nurse, and their belief in me has only made me more determined to succeed.
One of the most memorable experiences that strengthened my desire to enter the medical field was participating in community service projects. Through my involvement in organizations like TAFE (Texas Association of Future Educators), I had the opportunity to give back to my community. In 2022, I helped organize a sock drive for children in need, and in 2023, I participated in a food drive called Service Bites of Kindness, where we provided sack lunches for the Grand Prairie Homeless Outreach Organization. These experiences showed me how small acts of kindness can make a big impact on people's lives. It also reinforced my desire to work in a career where I can help people every day.
Choosing a career in the medical field is not just about having a job; it’s about making a difference. I want to be someone who brings hope, care, and healing to others. I know that becoming a pediatric nurse will require a lot of hard work, dedication, and compassion, but I am ready for the challenge. I am excited about the journey ahead and the opportunity to help children and their families through difficult times.
In the end, my passion for helping others, my admiration for healthcare professionals, and my personal experiences have all led me to this path. I believe that nursing is not just a career, but a calling—one that I am ready to answer.