Calculus is often called the “language of change,” and in the STEM world, this metaphor is more than poetic - it’s literal. At its core, calculus equips us to model how systems evolve over time -whether that’s tracking the growth of a tumor, optimizing treatment schedules, or engineering devices that adapt to their environments. Studying calculus is both a gateway to advanced science and an essential foundation for meaningful innovation. While working as a medical assistant in oncology and head-and-neck surgery, I frequently witness how the smallest details in patient care can make a profound difference. But to truly advance healthcare, we need more than compassion - we need insight grounded in data and understanding. That’s where calculus comes in. For example, understanding how chemotherapy drugs disperse and decay in the body - how dosage curves rise and tail off - depends entirely on principles of differential equations. Modeling these changes is inherently a calculus problem. Successful treatments aren’t just about fixed quantities but about how those quantities fluctuate across hours and days. Beyond patient care, calculus illuminates the unseen patterns in engineering, computer science, and environmental research. Engineers use calculus daily - designing safer infrastructure, optimizing traffic flow, or creating software that responds dynamically to user behavior. Calculus lets us move from static snapshots to evolving landscapes, helping us anticipate needs and design effective responses. Moreover, calculus develops a specific mindset that is invaluable across STEM: structured reasoning, precision, and the ability to connect abstract mathematics to concrete realities. That mindset doesn’t just propel someone through exams - it empowers them to ask what’s possible and how we can get there. It trains the mind to move from "What is this number?" to "How will that number change - and what does that mean?" In my own studies, grappling with calculus helped sharpen my analytical skills, which translated directly to understanding medical protocols and interpreting research findings. The calculus courses I’ve taken have also increased my ambition. Before encountering calculus, many problems felt unsolvable. Learning how to break complex systems into manageable parts - via integrals and derivatives - gave me the tools to imagine solutions in fields like Alzheimer’s research and oncology care. Concepts like rate of change and accumulation aren’t abstract; they are deeply meaningful when applied to human lives, whether modeling the progression of symptoms or the impact of early detection programs. In short, calculus matters in STEM because it’s the bridge between data and understanding, between problem and solution. It grounds innovation in logic, connects broad theories to everyday practices, and empowers us to model and improve the changing world. As I pursue my education and ultimately contribute to healthcare advancement, the calculus foundation I build will be central - not just for mastering rigorous disciplines, but for reasoning, caring, and genuinely making a difference.

Growing up in a blended-family home, I was raised by a caring parent who balanced work, studies, and our family’s emotional well-being with remarkable grace. Our household was filled with love and determination - but also the tension of tight finances and scheduling, as we re-blended traditions, routines, and responsibilities. From an early age, I learned the importance of adaptability, empathy, and mutual support. My parents’ sacrifices shaped my character in fundamental ways. Whether stepping in to help younger siblings when homework piled high or offering quiet support while my parent worked late, I learned that caring for others sometimes means leading quietly behind the scenes. I came to believe that each person’s strength is amplified when others step in - not with grand gestures, but through consistent, everyday acts of resilience and kindness. This upbringing instilled in me a profound desire to "do good" - to utilize whatever talents I have, whether in healthcare, education, or community service, to uplift others facing their own challenges. Currently, as a medical assistant in oncology and head-and-neck surgery, I witness daily how small acts of care - clear communication, presence, or a patient smile - can restore hope. These experiences reinforce my commitment to nursing and oncology research, where I plan to use my compassion and scientific curiosity to support patients and families facing uncertainty. Beyond the hospital, I envision expanding my impact through community health initiatives across Oregon. I aim to organize local screenings, wellness workshops, and mentorship programs - especially for youth in blended or single-parent homes - so that they can access opportunities I was fortunate to receive. I believe sharing my story can show them that challenges do not define us, but how we respond to them absolutely does. While my precise career path continues to evolve, my purpose is clear: to be someone who lifts others up. Whether through clinical care, research, teaching, or grassroots community work, I want to pay forward the compassion, resourcefulness, and determination modeled by my parent and nurtured through my blended-family experience. This scholarship would not only support me financially but also serve as a reminder of the values that have shaped me. It would provide me with the stability to continue balancing my education with full-time work, while giving me more space to serve my community. More importantly, it would strengthen my resolve to always use my skills in ways that make a lasting difference.

I have always been drawn to healthcare because of how purposefully it brings together compassion, purpose, and community. My path toward a career in nursing began not in a classroom but at my grandmother’s bedside, as she faced Alzheimer’s. Witnessing her fading memory and loss of independence was heartbreaking, and it ignited in me a desire to preserve dignity and connection even in illness. Those moments in her room taught me that healthcare is more than treatment - it is human care. As I took on a role as a medical assistant in oncology and head-and-neck surgery, that inspiration came into sharper focus. I discovered that illness touches entire families, not just bodies, and that every appointment can feel like navigating uncharted territory. Yet with clear communication, empathy, and presence, providers can create space for hope. Being part of a healthcare team that includes doctors, nurses, and assistants taught me how vital trust and compassionate coordination are to healing. I am inspired to pursue nursing because it exemplifies human-centered care. It allows me to be the consistent, calm presence patients often need most. I plan to make a difference by advocating for improvements in patient education and the emotional support systems around oncology and dementia care. In particular, I aim to contribute to research initiatives at institutions like the Knight Cancer Institute - pursuing innovations in early detection, patient communication strategies, and holistic care approaches that address both physical health and emotional well-being. I also want to give back by extending care into the community. I envision organizing health outreach programs in underserved areas of Oregon, helping to bridge gaps in preventive care and patient knowledge. I believe healthcare should be equitably accessible and tailored to each patient’s story - not a one-size-fits-all model. This path - rooted in personal experience, propelled by clinical exposure, and aimed toward both bedside care and research - reflects the spirit of the Maxwell Tuan Nguyen Memorial Scholarship. It represents a commitment to service, impact, and life-changing work in medicine. If awarded, I would use the scholarship to fund my nursing education and help further the idea that medical professionals can be both healers and advocates. Through my future career, I hope to create environments where patients feel heard, empowered, and cared for - and to honor the memory of my grandmother by carrying forward the lessons of compassion that medicine alone cannot teach.

I am a dedicated undergraduate student passionate about nursing, oncology research, and community health. Athletics have been a consistent part of my life. I’ve been involved in competitive sports since high school, where I played football and tennis, developing discipline, resilience, and a team mindset. These experiences taught me how to persevere through challenges, collaborate with diverse individuals, and approach goals with drive and focus. Sports also taught me how to balance competition with humility, an outlook I carry with me into academics, work, and community service. Volunteering is equally core to who I am. I have had my EMT license for two years, and in that time, I have regularly volunteered as a test proctor for new EMT students taking their skills exams and licensure exams. Being able to encourage students in that setting reminded me of the importance of mentorship and giving back, because I was once in their position and benefited from others investing in my success. Academically, I maintain a strong 4.0 GPA while balancing my studies with working full-time as a medical assistant in oncology head and neck surgery. This role has exposed me directly to the realities of healthcare: fear, hope, resilience, and the profound importance of empathetic support. I have witnessed how meaningful clear communication, patience, and presence can be to patients navigating complex diagnoses and treatment plans. These moments reinforced my desire to pursue nursing, where I can continue serving patients while also contributing to research and innovation in oncology care. These intertwined experiences - the balance of athletics, service, and academic/clinical commitment - mirror the work ethic, kindness, and ambition that defined Kalia. Like her, I strive for excellence in multiple arenas, support my peers, and bring energy and compassion into all that I do. Receiving the Kalia D. Davis Memorial Scholarship would make a significant difference for me. Financially, it would help alleviate tuition costs and reduce the stress of balancing work and studies, allowing me more time to devote to clinical learning and community health initiatives. More importantly, this scholarship represents recognition of the very values I live by - hard work, service, and drive. It would motivate me even further to contribute to meaningful change in healthcare, especially in oncology and dementia-related care, where I aim to combine clinical quality with compassionate support. By honoring Kalia’s legacy, awarding this scholarship would also empower me to carry forward her spirit of excellence and kindness - into the classroom, the clinic, and the community. I would use the support not just to further my education, but to lift up others through service, mentorship, and dedication to health equity. In reflecting Kalia’s passion and perseverance, I hope to make her memory shine through the work I continue in nursing and research.

My journey toward a career in healthcare has been shaped by both personal experiences and professional opportunities that have shown me the profound impact compassionate care can have. I am currently a medical assistant in the oncology and head and neck surgery division, and through this role I have been able to see firsthand the complexity of medicine and the resilience of patients navigating serious illness. These experiences, along with my personal background, have directed me toward a career in nursing with the ultimate goal of specializing in oncology and contributing to research in areas like cancer and Alzheimer’s disease. One of the most significant personal influences on my path has been my grandmother’s battle with Alzheimer’s. Watching her sharp memory and vibrant personality fade was heartbreaking, but it also gave me perspective on how illness affects both patients and their families. I saw the importance of dignity, communication, and presence in care, even when medical answers were limited. That experience planted the seed of wanting to enter healthcare not just to treat conditions, but to support people through some of the hardest moments of their lives. Professionally, my time in oncology has had the deepest impact. I have worked with patients who face daunting diagnoses and long treatment journeys, and I have seen how much strength it takes to keep showing up. I have also seen how vital nurses are in this setting. They are the ones who explain procedures, listen to fears, celebrate small victories, and help patients and families feel less alone. These moments have convinced me that oncology nursing is where I belong. It is a field that demands not only technical knowledge but also deep empathy, patience, and resilience - qualities I strive to embody every day. What excites me about nursing is the balance it offers between hands-on care and lifelong learning. I want to be able to directly care for patients while also advancing knowledge in the field. Oncology, in particular, fascinates me because it is an area where research and innovation are constantly evolving. I want to contribute to that progress, whether through clinical work, research projects, or community education. I am especially passionate about improving communication in cancer care, ensuring that patients and families understand their options and feel empowered in their decisions. Beyond my professional goals, my life experiences have taught me resilience and discipline. Balancing full-time work and full-time school has been challenging, but it has shown me that I can handle stress, adapt, and keep pushing toward my goals. These same qualities will help me as a nurse, where the work is demanding but the rewards are immeasurable. Ultimately, I see nursing as a way to bring together my values of service, compassion, and perseverance. I plan to enter oncology nursing because it allows me to stand alongside patients and families during some of their most vulnerable times, and to use both science and humanity to make a difference. My personal and professional journey has led me here, and I cannot imagine a more meaningful career.

Alzheimer’s disease is often described as the loss of memory, but for families it is far more than that. It changes relationships, reshapes daily life, and forces everyone involved to adapt in ways they never imagined. I witnessed this firsthand with my grandmother, whose journey with Alzheimer’s profoundly shaped my family and my own career goals. My grandmother was a schoolteacher for many years, known for her remarkable memory and her ability to recall details from decades past. She could name students she had taught thirty years earlier or remember exact dates from our family’s history without hesitation. Her sharpness and love of learning inspired me as a child and reinforced the value of education and persistence. To all of us, she was a source of knowledge, tradition, and stability. When I was a teenager, I began to notice changes. At first, she repeated questions or misplaced small items, and we brushed it off as normal aging. But by the time I turned eighteen, she no longer recognized me. That moment felt like an enormous loss: the person who had once been so central to my life no longer knew who I was. Alzheimer’s did not only take away her memory—it changed her personality and her ability to connect. Watching her decline taught me that dementia affects the entire family, not just the person diagnosed. One of the most meaningful choices our family made was allowing her caregiver to take her to Tonga. My grandmother’s favorite place in the world had always been Tahiti, and we believed being near the islands she loved would bring her peace. Those final years abroad gave her joy, even as her illness progressed. Eventually, her health forced her to return home, where she later passed away. Allowing her that experience showed me what true care looks like—respecting not only a person’s medical needs but also their passions, values, and dignity. Living through my grandmother’s Alzheimer’s journey reshaped how I see the world and my role in it. I learned patience by being present in the moment, even when conversations repeated or recognition was gone. I saw the importance of community, as my family leaned on each other and on her caregivers to manage the demands of her illness. Most of all, I learned resilience. Even as she faded, my grandmother’s dignity inspired me to treat every person with respect, regardless of their condition. Her journey did more than affect me emotionally—it directed my career ambitions. I want to contribute to Alzheimer’s research so that fewer families will have to endure the same slow loss. While there is currently no cure, advances in understanding dementia’s mechanisms hold promise. I want to be part of the research that moves us closer to effective treatments and, one day, prevention. This scholarship would help me continue my education while carrying my grandmother’s story with me into the lab and beyond. Every class I take and every research project I pursue will be a way to honor her memory, transforming a personal tragedy into a driving purpose. Alzheimer’s changed my grandmother’s life, my family’s life, and my own. While the disease took her memory, it left behind lessons of patience, resilience, and compassion that I will carry into my career. Her experience solidified my commitment to advancing Alzheimer’s research so that future generations can have hope where today there is uncertainty. My grandmother may not have remembered me in the end, but I will always remember her—and I will dedicate my work to honoring her legacy.

Ever since I was young, I’ve been drawn to the idea of helping others—especially in times when they feel most vulnerable. That instinct grew stronger as I got older and experienced firsthand how critical compassionate, competent care is to healing. I pursued a career in healthcare starting as a medical assistant, and it was through that work—supporting oncology patients, assisting in surgical research, and helping manage care logistics—that I realized my deeper calling. I didn’t just want to support care. I wanted to provide it. My journey into nursing has been shaped by personal growth, challenges, and a persistent desire to be of service in meaningful ways. I’ve worked with patients facing some of the most frightening diagnoses imaginable, and what struck me wasn’t just the complexity of their medical care—it was how much of a difference it made when someone took the time to explain things clearly, advocate for their concerns, and treat them like a human being, not a case number. That’s the kind of nurse I want to be—one who combines clinical excellence with emotional intelligence. I’m currently working toward my BSN, balancing full-time work and school with long-term plans to become a surgical DNP or CRNA. I’m especially passionate about equitable, affirming care for underserved communities, including the LGBTQ population. Being part of that community myself, I understand how intimidating it can be to navigate the healthcare system while wondering if you’ll be truly seen and respected. My goal is to help bridge that gap—whether that’s through direct care, advocacy, or education. In my future career, I hope to make a difference not only through the patients I care for, but also by fostering collaboration in interdisciplinary teams and mentoring new nurses. I believe that good care comes from good communication and that we all do better when we lift each other up. I want to be someone who shows up every day with a clear mind, open heart, and a commitment to excellence—even on the hardest days. This scholarship would help ease the financial burden of nursing school and allow me to focus more on my studies and clinical development. I’m committed to this path and to giving back to my community through a career of service. Nursing, to me, isn’t just a profession—it’s a calling rooted in empathy, skill, and the belief that healing is about more than just medicine. It’s about connection. And I intend to honor that every step of the way.

Pursuing a career in nursing is my way of giving back through public service, combining my passion for science, patient advocacy, and hands-on care to make a direct impact on people’s lives. Healthcare is one of the most critical forms of public service—it affects every person, every family, and every community. I want to ensure that patients, especially those in underserved and marginalized groups, receive the respect, treatment, and education they deserve. My passion for healthcare deepened when I started working in oncology and gender-affirming care. I’ve seen firsthand how access to compassionate and knowledgeable providers can change lives. Many patients enter medical spaces feeling uncertain, afraid, or unheard, whether it’s due to a serious diagnosis or a history of discrimination in healthcare. My role has shown me the power of advocacy and trust-building in medicine, and I want to continue that as a nurse specializing in Cardiovascular Intensive Care (CVICU) or Oncology. One of the biggest inspirations for me pursuing healthcare was losing my grandmother to cancer just ten days after her diagnosis. Our family barely had time to process what was happening before she was gone. That experience taught me that healthcare isn’t just about treating disease—it’s about communication, early detection, and ensuring patients and families feel supported. I plan to use the skills I gain in nursing school to bridge these gaps in my local community, helping to improve patient education, access to care, and overall health outcomes. One of the ways I want to give back is by working with community outreach programs that focus on preventative care. Many serious illnesses, including heart disease and cancer, are more treatable when caught early, yet too many people miss out on life-saving screenings and health education due to lack of access or financial barriers. By working in hospitals, clinics, and community health programs, I hope to increase awareness and accessibility for these critical services, ensuring that more people get the care they need before it’s too late. I also want to be involved in mentorship and education for future healthcare professionals. Public service isn’t just about the work I do myself—it’s about helping to create a new generation of providers who are compassionate, skilled, and committed to patient advocacy. I plan to mentor nursing students, advocate for inclusive healthcare policies, and contribute to medical research to ensure the field continues evolving to better serve communities. This scholarship would help me continue my education without the overwhelming financial strain, allowing me to focus on building the skills I need to serve my community effectively. More than just a career, nursing is my way of making a lasting impact—one that will be felt in every patient I care for, every family I support, and every future provider I help guide. Public service isn’t just about filling a role—it’s about understanding the needs of a community and being willing to step up and make a difference. That’s exactly what I intend to do.

Losing my grandmother to cancer just ten days after her diagnosis changed my perspective on life, healthcare, and the impact that medical professionals have on their patients and families. The speed of her illness was shocking, and the lack of time to process or seek treatment made me realize how important early detection, patient education, and compassionate care are in medicine. That experience is one of the many reasons why I have chosen to pursue a career in nursing, where I can directly advocate for patients, support families through difficult diagnoses, and improve the quality of care in life’s most vulnerable moments. My path into healthcare has not been traditional. Before committing to nursing, I explored real estate, entrepreneurship, and even owned a small winery. While I found success in those fields, something was missing—I wanted my work to have a deeper human impact. It wasn’t until I started working as a medical assistant in oncology that I found my true calling. I witnessed how skilled, compassionate nurses provided comfort, guidance, and stability to patients and their families in times of uncertainty. I saw how they bridged the gap between clinical treatment and human connection, and I knew I wanted to be part of that. Now, as a non-traditional student returning to school, I am fully committed to my journey toward becoming a nurse. It hasn’t been easy—I juggle full-time work, financial responsibilities, and adjusting to academia after years away—but the challenges have only made me more determined. My goal is to become a Surgical DNP or CRNA, specializing in high-acuity patient care while continuing to advocate for early cancer detection, patient education, and equitable healthcare practices. One of the most important lessons I’ve learned from my grandmother’s passing is that healthcare is not just about treating disease—it’s about treating people. Patients deserve to feel heard, informed, and supported, and I plan to make a positive impact by ensuring that every patient I care for receives the compassion, respect, and quality treatment they deserve. Whether it’s helping someone through a complex surgical procedure, educating a family on their loved one’s condition, or advocating for better healthcare access for underserved communities, I want my career to be one that truly changes lives. This scholarship would help alleviate the financial burden of returning to school, allowing me to focus on my education, clinical training, and future advocacy work. More than anything, it would help me continue on the path to becoming a nurse who blends expertise, empathy, and advocacy to make a lasting difference in healthcare. Though my journey into medicine was shaped by loss, I hope to turn that experience into something meaningful—ensuring that no patient, and no family, has to go through it alone.

My journey into nursing has been anything but traditional. Unlike many students who follow a direct path from high school to college, my road has been filled with twists, career changes, and moments of self-discovery. I used to believe that success meant following a linear path, but I’ve since learned that growth often comes from embracing the unexpected. Early in my career, I pursued real estate and entrepreneurship, even owning a small winery at one point. I thrived in business, but something always felt missing—I wanted my work to have a deeper human impact. It wasn’t until I transitioned into healthcare that I truly found my purpose. Working as a medical assistant in oncology, I saw firsthand how compassionate, skilled providers could transform a patient’s experience. It was in those moments—helping patients navigate difficult diagnoses, offering reassurance, and seeing the critical role nurses played—that I had my “aha” moment. I realized that nursing was the perfect combination of science, advocacy, and direct human connection. Nurses are on the front lines, not only treating patients but empowering them, guiding them through some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives. That realization changed everything for me. I knew I had to go back to school, despite the challenges that came with being a non-traditional student balancing full-time work, financial responsibilities, and adjusting to an academic environment after years away. Returning to school has been one of the most challenging yet rewarding decisions I’ve ever made. I’ve had to relearn how to study, manage my time between work and school, and push through the doubts that come with being older than many of my classmates. But this experience has also given me a unique perspective—I know why I’m here, and I bring years of real-world experience, adaptability, and resilience to my studies. Now, as I work toward my nursing degree, I feel more confident than ever that I am exactly where I’m supposed to be. My experiences have given me a deep appreciation for patient advocacy, individualized care, and the importance of making healthcare accessible and inclusive for all patients. Looking ahead, my goal is to become a Surgical DNP or CRNA, specializing in high-acuity care while continuing to advocate for equitable healthcare. I want to take everything I’ve learned—from my early career experiences to my time as a medical assistant—to become a nurse who not only delivers expert care but also makes a lasting impact on patients and the healthcare system as a whole. This scholarship would help alleviate the financial strain of returning to school, allowing me to focus fully on my education and clinical training. More importantly, it would bring me one step closer to achieving my dream of becoming a nurse who blends skill, compassion, and advocacy to improve patient care and outcomes. Though my path to nursing has been unconventional, I wouldn’t change a thing—because every experience has led me to exactly where I am today.

I am a proud Oregonian, shaped by the landscapes that surround me. Growing up in Oregon’s forests, mountains, and rivers instilled in me a deep appreciation for adventure, resilience, and the interconnectedness of all things. Whether it's hiking through the Columbia River Gorge, white-water rafting down the Deschutes River, or biking through the city, I’ve always found that nature keeps me grounded. These experiences have taught me the importance of adaptability, problem-solving, and endurance—qualities that have also guided my path into healthcare and nursing. My love for the outdoors parallels my passion for medicine. Just as nature requires balance to thrive, so does healthcare. Every patient is unique, with individual needs, backgrounds, and experiences that shape their well-being. I believe in a holistic approach to healing, where physical, mental, and emotional health are treated as equally important. This belief is what drives me to pursue a career in nursing, where I can provide care that not only treats symptoms but also recognizes the person behind the diagnosis. One of my greatest passions is advocating for equitable healthcare, particularly for LGBTQ+ individuals and underserved communities. Working in healthcare, I have witnessed how bias, lack of education, and systemic barriers prevent many patients from receiving the compassionate care they deserve. My experiences assisting in gender-affirming care have reinforced how crucial it is for patients to feel safe and respected in medical environments. Many transgender patients enter healthcare spaces with fear, having been dismissed or mistreated before. Being able to provide affirming, respectful care has shown me just how much of an impact a single provider can have on a patient’s life. In addition to patient care, I have also worked in cancer genomics research, exploring how genetics, epigenetics, and environmental factors shape disease progression. This work has deepened my understanding of personalized medicine, reinforcing that healthcare cannot be one-size-fits-all. As a future nurse, I want to bring both scientific knowledge and compassionate care to every patient I encounter, ensuring they feel seen, heard, and empowered in their health decisions. Beyond my professional aspirations, I want to continue making a positive impact in my community by mentoring and supporting future healthcare professionals. The medical field needs providers from all walks of life—people who understand diverse patient needs and can advocate for meaningful change. I want to help create a healthcare system where inclusivity, education, and holistic care are at the forefront. This scholarship would lighten the financial burden of nursing school, allowing me to focus more on my education and less on the stress of tuition and student loans. It would help me continue my journey toward becoming a nurse who embodies both medical expertise and the deep compassion that every patient deserves. Just as Oregon’s wild rivers, towering forests, and rugged mountains have shaped me into the person I am today, I know that nursing will shape me into the person I am meant to become. Whether I’m on a winding trail or in a hospital room, my mission remains the same—to bring healing, strength, and understanding to those who need it most.

Living with ADHD has shaped my academic journey in ways I never anticipated. Throughout school, I struggled with focus, time management, and the frustration of knowing I was capable but often feeling held back by my own brain. I had difficulty sitting through long lectures, staying on top of assignments, and absorbing material in the same way my peers did. In a system that often values traditional learning styles, I felt like I was constantly trying to fit into a mold that wasn’t built for me. It wasn’t until adulthood that I fully understood how my mind worked and began developing strategies to succeed. I learned that structure, visual learning techniques, and self-discipline would be key to my academic success. Now, as I pursue higher education while working full-time in healthcare, I’ve turned what was once a challenge into an advantage. My ability to adapt, think outside the box, and push through obstacles has become my greatest strength. Despite the struggles I’ve faced, my motivation to pursue higher education has never wavered. I am deeply passionate about medicine and patient advocacy, particularly for underserved communities. Working in healthcare has opened my eyes to the disparities that exist, especially for LGBTQ+ patients and individuals with chronic illnesses. I’ve seen firsthand how patients can be dismissed, misdiagnosed, or misunderstood simply because their experiences don’t fit a provider’s limited perspective. This has driven me to become the kind of nurse who listens, understands, and advocates for patients who feel unheard. My current work assisting with gender-affirming care for transgender patients has been particularly meaningful. Many of these patients enter medical spaces feeling anxious, fearing judgment, or expecting resistance. Being able to provide compassionate, knowledgeable care and ensuring they feel safe has reinforced my belief that representation in medicine matters. Additionally, my research in cancer genomics has deepened my understanding of how genetics, environment, and access to care influence patient outcomes. Through this work, I’ve developed a keen interest in how healthcare can be more personalized and inclusive, ensuring that no patient is left behind due to systemic biases. While my passion for medicine and advocacy drives me, financing my education has been a significant challenge. I currently work full-time while attending school, balancing patient care with demanding coursework. My family tries to support me when possible, but financial help is not consistent or easy for them to provide. As a result, I have taken out $80,000 in private student loans to continue my education. This scholarship would alleviate some of that financial burden, allowing me to focus more on my studies and professional development without the overwhelming stress of student debt. More importantly, it would enable me to continue my mission of creating a more inclusive healthcare system. My experiences—both personal and professional—have reinforced that healthcare needs more providers who understand the challenges faced by diverse communities and are willing to advocate for systemic change. ADHD has taught me resilience, adaptability, and the power of perseverance. My experiences navigating an education system not built for neurodivergent students have only strengthened my ability to overcome barriers and help others do the same. As a future nurse, I want to bring this same perseverance and empathy into every patient interaction. With this scholarship, I would be able to continue my education with less financial strain and contribute to a healthcare system where every patient feels seen, heard, and valued. I am committed to making a difference—not just in the lives of my future patients, but in the broader landscape of medicine itself. Thank you for your consideration.

This scholarship funding would have a profound impact on my ability to continue my education while balancing the financial realities of being a full-time student and healthcare worker. Nursing school is demanding, both academically and financially, and while I am committed to my education, the financial strain of tuition, books, and living expenses has been overwhelming. I currently work full-time to support myself, but this comes at the cost of exhaustion and limited study time. Receiving this scholarship would alleviate some of the financial stress, allowing me to focus more on learning and gaining the skills necessary to become the best nurse I can be. It would also reduce the burden of student loans, giving me the freedom to pursue additional training in holistic health practices that will complement my nursing education. My passion for healthcare extends beyond traditional medical treatment. I believe in the power of holistic health—treating not just physical symptoms but also addressing mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Too often, modern medicine focuses solely on clinical interventions, overlooking the importance of individualized, patient-centered care. Through my education and career, I want to bridge this gap by incorporating holistic approaches that honor the mind-body connection and promote overall wellness. One area of holistic health that deeply resonates with me is the integration of mental health support into patient care. Working in healthcare, I have seen how stress, anxiety, and emotional trauma can manifest physically. Patients struggling with chronic illnesses often feel unheard or dismissed when their concerns don’t fit neatly into a diagnostic box. I want to change this. By combining traditional nursing care with holistic approaches like mindfulness, therapeutic communication, and stress-reduction techniques, I aim to create a healthcare environment where patients feel truly cared for, not just treated. Additionally, I am passionate about inclusive healthcare, particularly for LGBTQ+ patients and those from marginalized backgrounds. Many patients avoid seeking care due to fear of judgment or past negative experiences with medical providers. Holistic health means more than just physical healing—it also involves creating spaces where people feel safe, seen, and respected. Through my work in gender-affirming care and patient advocacy, I have already begun taking steps to ensure that medical environments are inclusive and affirming for all. This scholarship would enable me to continue this work, expanding my knowledge of holistic health practices that can help foster trust and healing in these communities. I also hope to incorporate education into my future practice, helping patients understand the connection between lifestyle, nutrition, mental health, and overall well-being. Many chronic conditions can be better managed with a whole-person approach, but patients don’t always have access to the education and resources needed to make informed decisions. By providing compassionate, evidence-based guidance, I want to empower patients to take an active role in their health, rather than feeling like passive recipients of medical care. Receiving this scholarship would not only support me financially but also reinforce my commitment to making a meaningful impact in holistic health and healing. It would give me the opportunity to focus more on my studies, gain additional training in holistic practices, and ultimately become a well-rounded nurse who prioritizes compassionate, patient-centered care. I envision a future where healthcare isn’t just about treating illness—it’s about nurturing resilience, balance, and true healing. With the help of this scholarship, I will be one step closer to making that vision a reality.

Maintaining my mental and physical wellness is crucial—not just for my personal well-being but for my future as a nurse and healthcare professional. I know that to provide the best care for others, I need to take care of myself first. However, balancing school, work, and personal life while prioritizing my health is a constant challenge. As a full-time student and healthcare worker, my biggest struggle is time management. Between long work shifts, intensive coursework, and studying, it can be difficult to find the time and energy to exercise, cook nutritious meals, or decompress mentally. The pressure to excel academically while working full-time often leads to stress, exhaustion, and burnout, making it even harder to prioritize self-care. There are days when I feel overwhelmed, caught between deadlines, responsibilities, and the weight of my own expectations. Living with ADHD adds another layer of complexity. Maintaining focus, staying organized, and managing stress while juggling multiple responsibilities takes extra effort. I have had to learn how to work with my brain rather than against it, finding strategies that help me stay on track without sacrificing my well-being. It’s easy to fall into patterns of overworking, but I’ve realized that pushing through exhaustion isn’t sustainable. If I don’t take care of my mental and physical health, my ability to succeed in school and perform well at work suffers. Despite these challenges, I’ve learned that small, consistent efforts make a difference. I prioritize meal prepping to ensure I have nutritious food available, even on my busiest days. I incorporate stretching and short walks into my routine, knowing that even a little movement helps with both physical and mental health. Setting boundaries around my workload has been one of the hardest but most valuable lessons. I’ve had to accept that I can’t do everything all at once, and that’s okay. Mental wellness is just as important as physical health, and I make a conscious effort to take care of both. I practice mindfulness, whether through short meditation sessions or simply taking a few moments to breathe between tasks. Therapy has also been a valuable tool, helping me develop coping mechanisms for stress and anxiety. Beyond that, I’ve found that hobbies like gardening and biking give me an outlet to recharge and reconnect with myself. These lessons in self-care will stay with me as I move forward in my career. In healthcare, burnout is common, and I want to be proactive in maintaining my well-being so that I can provide the best care for my future patients. I’ve seen firsthand how easy it is for healthcare professionals to neglect their own health while focusing on others, but I refuse to let that happen to me. I want to lead by example, showing that prioritizing wellness isn’t selfish—it’s necessary. Ultimately, my goal is to be a strong, healthy, and compassionate nurse, and that starts with taking care of myself. By maintaining balance and learning how to manage my health now, I am setting myself up for long-term success, both personally and professionally.

Growing up queer in a world that often felt unwelcoming shaped me in ways I didn’t fully understand until adulthood. While I was fortunate to have a family that accepted me, the broader world was not always as kind. The weight of being different, of navigating spaces where I wasn’t always safe to be myself, left lasting imprints on my mental health. I struggled with anxiety, self-doubt, and the internal battle of trying to be palatable to those who would rather I stay invisible. One of the most difficult aspects of being part of the LGBTQ+ community is not just the external discrimination but the way it seeps into your own mind. Even in affirming environments, the echoes of past rejection and fear linger. For years, I questioned whether I was taking up too much space, whether I was worthy of love and belonging. These thoughts weren’t unique to me—I saw them in my friends, in the LGBTQ+ patients I encountered in healthcare, and in the stories of those who felt that the world had no room for them. Instead of letting these struggles define me, I chose to turn them into something greater. I found purpose in advocacy, in ensuring that others wouldn’t feel the same isolation I once did. This is why I pursued a career in healthcare—so I could be the provider that so many LGBTQ+ individuals desperately need. Currently, I assist in gender-affirming care, working with transgender patients who often arrive in medical spaces feeling anxious and unseen. Many have been misgendered, dismissed, or denied treatment in the past. I have witnessed firsthand the relief that comes when a patient is treated with dignity and respect—when they don’t have to justify their identity to receive basic care. I am also a member of the OHSU Pride Employee Resource Group (ERG), advocating for LGBTQ+ representation in medical policies and provider education. My experiences have shown me that representation isn’t just about visibility—it’s about survival. LGBTQ+ individuals face higher rates of mental health struggles, self-harm, and suicide due to systemic discrimination and a lack of supportive resources. When someone walks into a hospital, a clinic, or an emergency room, they should never have to wonder whether their provider will treat them with respect. This is what drives me to keep pushing for change. I want to create spaces where queer patients don’t have to hold their breath when they disclose their identity, where they can receive care without fear of judgment. I want to mentor future LGBTQ+ healthcare professionals, ensuring that our voices are heard and our needs are prioritized. My journey has been shaped by struggle, but it has also been defined by resilience. Being gay has made me more empathetic, more determined, and more committed to making healthcare a safer place for all. I am not just pursuing a career—I am building a future where people like me no longer have to fight to be seen. Mental health, identity, and healthcare are deeply connected, and I refuse to let the challenges I’ve faced go to waste. If my experiences can help even one person feel less alone, if they can inspire systemic change in even one institution, then every hardship has been worth it. This is why I fight. This is why I push forward. And this is why I know that I will make a difference.

Growing up queer in a conservative environment, I often felt like an outsider in my own life. There were no LGBTQ+ role models in my school, my community, or even in the healthcare spaces I visited. The message was clear: I had to carve out my own path. Now, as a queer healthcare professional and student, I am doing exactly that—not only for myself but for those who come after me. What sets me apart is my commitment to reshaping healthcare into a space where LGBTQ+ individuals feel safe, seen, and valued. My experiences as a patient, provider, and advocate have fueled my mission to eliminate bias in medicine and ensure that no one avoids care due to fear of discrimination. Currently, I assist in gender-affirming care for transgender patients, ensuring they receive knowledgeable and respectful medical support. Many patients come in feeling anxious, expecting to be dismissed or judged. Seeing their relief when they realize they are in a safe space reaffirms my dedication to creating a more inclusive healthcare system. In addition to clinical work, I am actively involved in the OHSU Pride Employee Resource Group (ERG), advocating for policies that improve LGBTQ+ representation in medicine. Beyond LGBTQ+ advocacy, I conduct cancer genomics research, studying how genetic and epigenetic variations impact treatment responses. This work has taught me that no two patients are the same—an understanding that extends beyond biology and into the core of patient-centered care. Every individual’s story, identity, and experiences matter, and as a future nurse, I will champion this belief in every interaction. My journey has not been without challenges. Living with ADHD has made traditional learning difficult, and navigating higher education while working full-time in healthcare has tested my resilience. However, these experiences have taught me adaptability, perseverance, and the power of self-advocacy. I have learned how to thrive in systems that weren’t built for people like me—whether as a neurodivergent student, a queer individual, or a first-generation healthcare professional. Financial barriers have also played a significant role in my journey. While my family tries to support me, it is not consistent or easy for them, and I have taken out $80,000 in private student loans to fund my education. Despite this, I remain committed to my goals because I know the impact I can make—both in individual patient care and in larger systemic change. My deep connection to the change I want to create distinguishes me from other applicants. I am not just studying healthcare—I am actively working to transform it. Whether it is advocating for LGBTQ+ patients, conducting research that pushes medicine forward, or using my own experiences to mentor and support future queer healthcare professionals, I am committed to making a lasting impact. Receiving the Adam Montes Pride Scholarship would allow me to focus more on my education and advocacy work, ensuring that I can continue breaking down barriers for LGBTQ+ individuals in medicine. I want to be the provider I never had growing up—the one who listens, understands, and fights for equitable care. This scholarship isn’t just about financial support—it’s about investing in a future where healthcare is inclusive, representation is the norm, and LGBTQ+ individuals no longer have to fight to be seen. I am ready to lead that change. Thank you for your consideration.