Stethoscopes, shears, and syringes were packed into the doctor's playset, a well-loved and utilized bag of miracle cures. My little brother was my first patient, and I experienced much joy in clumsily applying disinfectant and bandaids to his scrapes and bruises. After reading an adolescent biology text, I pretended to carefully excise injured tissue from his leg with my plastic scalpel. However, I was not prepared to cure him when he suffered three significant breaks in his arm and foot. During two surgeries, titanium rods and screws were implanted in his tiny body, and I was in awe of the doctors and nurses who dutifully utilized the accurate versions of my playset parts to help repair his bones. However, after observing my mother soothe and heal her son with her nursing expertise, I slowly witnessed my career choice surfacing before my eyes. As a registered nurse and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, my mother has spent the past seventeen years teaching me that multifaceted healthcare includes medical, mental, and spiritual components. She instilled in me a desire to help others. I decided to start my journey in Emergency Medical Services at a local training program for teenagers who want to learn about the medical field. After earning CPR / AED, First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens certifications, COVID-19 interrupted my search for internships and further courses. To stay connected with hospitals, I started crocheting hats for babies in local hospitals and lived vicariously through my mother's horror stories of COVID-19. These stories only strengthened my conviction to become a nurse. Once school resumed, I joined my local firehouse as an EMT, rode in an ambulance, and responded to emergency calls. I also enrolled in a volunteer program in a local hospital's pediatric unit, where I interacted with and supported families experiencing the trauma of having a sick child. These experiences also solidified my passion for working at the bedside. Because nursing is a broad field with so many opportunities to specialize, I wanted to explore additional concentrations further to make an informed decision in college and beyond. Therefore, I applied and was admitted to an oncology program at the FDA and a career development internship with Kaiser Permanente. At this juncture, I realized that I had a gap in my knowledge of psychology, so I secured an internship with a med-psych company focusing on pediatric drug addiction and mental health. There, I immersed myself in the practicalities of research, recruited subjects for studies, and created communication tools to educate patients better. As I navigate diverse healthcare settings and engage in multifaceted research opportunities in college, I seek to address systemic issues, particularly maternal healthcare. The staggering statistics surrounding black maternal mortality rates deeply troubled me. I aspire to alleviate this disparity by focusing on becoming a labor and delivery nurse, dedicating my efforts to providing comprehensive care to expectant mothers, especially those from marginalized communities. My experiences in emergency medical services, volunteering in pediatric units, and immersing myself in various healthcare concentrations have fortified my resolve to pursue this specialized field. I aim to blend my passion for providing holistic care with my commitment to rigorous scientific inquiry to help mitigate the pressing issue of maternal mortality, ensuring every mother receives the care and support she deserves during this vulnerable phase of life. The amalgamation of my varied experiences, from firsthand encounters in emergencies to in-depth research endeavors, fuels my determination to contribute meaningfully to healthcare. My future labor and delivery nurse career embodies my aspirations and a profound commitment to addressing healthcare disparities and fostering inclusive, holistic care for all individuals.

Stethoscopes, shears, and syringes were packed into the doctor's playset, a well-loved and utilized bag of miracle cures. My little brother was my first patient, and I experienced much joy in clumsily applying disinfectant and bandaids to his scrapes and bruises. After reading an adolescent biology text, I pretended to carefully excise injured tissue from his leg with my plastic scalpel. However, I was not prepared to cure him when he suffered three significant breaks in his arm and foot. During two surgeries, titanium rods and screws were implanted in his tiny body, and I was in awe of the doctors and nurses who dutifully utilized the accurate versions of my playset parts to help repair his bones. However, after observing my mother soothe and heal her son with her nursing expertise, I slowly witnessed my career choice surfacing before my eyes. As a registered nurse and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, my mother has spent the past seventeen years teaching me that multifaceted healthcare includes medical, mental, and spiritual components. She instilled in me a desire to help others. I decided to start my journey in Emergency Medical Services at a local training program for teenagers who want to learn about the medical field. After earning CPR / AED, First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens certifications, COVID-19 interrupted my search for internships and further courses. To stay connected with hospitals, I started crocheting hats for babies in local hospitals and lived vicariously through my mother's horror stories of COVID-19. These stories only strengthened my conviction to become a nurse. Once school resumed, I joined my local firehouse as an EMT, rode in an ambulance, and responded to emergency calls. I also enrolled in a volunteer program in a local hospital's pediatric unit, where I interacted with and supported families experiencing the trauma of having a sick child. These experiences also solidified my passion for working at the bedside. Because nursing is a broad field with so many opportunities to specialize, I wanted to explore additional concentrations further to make an informed decision in college and beyond. Therefore, I applied and was admitted to an oncology program at the FDA and a career development internship with Kaiser Permanente. At this juncture, I realized that I had a gap in my knowledge of psychology, so I secured an internship with a med-psych company focusing on pediatric drug addiction and mental health. There, I immersed myself in the practicalities of research, recruited subjects for studies, and created communication tools to educate patients better. As I navigate diverse healthcare settings and engage in multifaceted research opportunities in college, I seek to address systemic issues, particularly maternal healthcare. The staggering statistics surrounding black maternal mortality rates deeply troubled me. I aspire to alleviate this disparity by focusing on becoming a labor and delivery nurse, dedicating my efforts to providing comprehensive care to expectant mothers, especially those from marginalized communities. My experiences in emergency medical services, volunteering in pediatric units, and immersing myself in various healthcare concentrations have fortified my resolve to pursue this specialized field. I aim to blend my passion for providing holistic care with my commitment to rigorous scientific inquiry to help mitigate the pressing issue of maternal mortality, ensuring every mother receives the care and support she deserves during this vulnerable phase of life. The amalgamation of my varied experiences, from firsthand encounters in emergencies to in-depth research endeavors, fuels my determination to contribute meaningfully to healthcare. My future labor and delivery nurse career embodies my aspirations and a profound commitment to addressing healthcare disparities and fostering inclusive, holistic care for all individuals.

Addiction is a labyrinthine journey, often fraught with pain, despair, and a constant battle against oneself. My story is not a narrative of struggle but a testament to resilience, redemption, and the transformative power of healing. The disruption of bipolar disorder engulfed my life in a whirlwind of highs and lows, pulling me into a cycle of emotional turbulence. The erratic mood swings, from the euphoric peaks of mania to the despairing depths of depression, left me grappling with a sense of profound instability. In search of solace from the tumult within, I sought refuge in substances, hoping to dull the intensity of my emotional rollercoaster. Yet, the reprieve offered by opioids soon spiraled into a destructive cycle of dependency. As the dosage increased, so did the grasp of addiction. It was not the physical dependency; it was the emotional void that opioids filled, masking the underlying turmoil within. The descent was rapid, marked by a steady erosion of relationships, shattered ambitions, and profound isolation. Each day felt like a desperate attempt to escape the clutches of addiction, but the cycle seemed unbreakable. I sold my body, and I would have sold my soul for pills if I could. Rock bottom became a familiar landscape, and hope flickered as a distant, fading light. But, within the depths of despair, a flicker of determination emerged. I sought help. Embracing the path to recovery was daunting, strewn with relapses and moments of intense vulnerability. However, with the support of loved ones and professional guidance, I navigated the tumultuous journey toward sobriety and mental stability. Throughout this arduous process, a transformation occurred within me. I discovered an unwavering passion for aiding others grappling with addiction, empathizing with their struggles through the prism of my own experience. The desire to effect positive change burgeoned, propelling me towards a new purpose. This realization ignited a desire within me to pursue a career in nursing, driven by the aspiration to support and advocate for individuals battling addiction. Enrolling in nursing school became more than a mere academic pursuit; it symbolized a transformative journey—a vehicle through which I could channel my firsthand experiences to empathize with and uplift those in the throes of addiction. As I wrap up my first semester, my aspirations remain steadfast. I envision myself as a nurse, advocate, and ally for those fighting addiction. I aim to leverage my journey as a source of inspiration, to empathize without judgment, and to provide holistic care that extends beyond physical ailments to encompass emotional well-being. My journey from the depths of opioid addiction to the threshold of a nursing career has been a testament to the human capacity for redemption and healing. It is a narrative not defined by past struggles but illuminated by the promise of a future dedicated to healing others—a journey fueled by empathy, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to serve those in need. My experiences endowed me with kindness, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to serve as an advocate for those battling similar demons. My journey is a testament to the power of resilience and the transformative potential embedded within personal struggles. As I embark on this journey toward a nursing career, I am driven by the profound conviction that my past tribulations will catalyze the effect of positive change and inspire hope in the lives of others.

Bipolar II disorder is a mental health condition characterized by episodes of hypomania and depression. Living with this condition has influenced my beliefs, relationships, and career path in myriad ways. My condition has influenced my belief in self-care, therapy, and support from loved ones. I have learned that paying attention to my moods, thoughts, and behaviors is crucial to managing my symptoms and preventing myself from slipping into a hypomanic or depressed state. To take care of myself physically and emotionally, I engage in regular exercise and proper nutrition and participate in activities that bring me joy and fulfillment. I have also found that a combination of therapy and medication has been instrumental in helping me manage my symptoms and improve my overall quality of life. Through treatment, I have gained a deeper understanding of my condition and learned coping strategies that have enabled me to regulate my moods and emotions better. Medication has helped balance my brain chemistry and reduce the severity and frequency of my hypomanic and depressive episodes. I have also learned the importance of support from loved ones, as it can be challenging to navigate the ups and downs of Bipolar. Having access to the support and understanding of friends and family has been invaluable in helping me cope with the challenges of my condition. I have also learned the importance of being open and honest with my loved ones about my struggles, as keeping my illness a secret can lead to feelings of isolation and make it harder to manage my symptoms. Secondly, my condition has influenced my relationships, emphasizing the importance of honest communication, patience, and adaptability. Open and honest communication has been crucial in my relationships, as Bipolar II can make it difficult to regulate my moods and emotions. By being transparent with my loved ones about my illness and how it affects me, they have understood my behaviors and attitudes better and provided support and guidance when needed. Bipolar has also challenged me to be more patient and understanding with others, as it can make me irritable and easily frustrated. I have had to work on managing these emotions, not taking my anger and frustration out on the people I care about, and being more understanding and empathetic toward others who may be struggling with mental health challenges. Additionally, my experience with Bipolar II has made me more resilient and adaptable in my relationships. My disorder can be unpredictable, and I have had to learn to roll with the punches and adapt to changes in my mood and energy levels. This has made me more flexible and open-minded in my relationships and enabled me to navigate the ups and downs of relationships more effectively. Lastly, my condition has strengthened my conviction to be a nurse. My journey with Bipolar disorder has profoundly shaped my aspiration to become a nurse, instilling in me a unique perspective on the significance of mental health and the pivotal role healthcare professionals play in supporting individuals grappling with mental illness. Living with Bipolar II for a significant portion of my life has granted me firsthand insight into the complexities and hurdles inherent in managing a mental health condition. Moreover, witnessing the transformative impact of receiving proper treatment and compassionate care has reinforced my unwavering dedication to pursuing a nursing career dedicated to positively impacting others' lives. The depth of my mental health journey has cultivated a profound understanding of the essentiality of holistic care. Recognizing that mental health is as crucial as physical well-being to the overall quality of life, I aspire to bridge the gap between these two realms of healthcare. As a nurse, I am committed to providing comprehensive care that addresses physical ailments and mental health concerns. Understanding the intricate connection between physical and psychological well-being, I aim to assist patients in navigating this complex interplay, ensuring they receive the support and care necessary for their holistic wellness. I am deeply aware of how managing a mental health condition can be isolating and arduous. This understanding fuels my aspiration to be a supportive presence for others facing similar struggles. As a nurse, I aspire to be a compassionate listener and a source of empathy for those encountering mental health challenges. I endeavor to create a safe and understanding environment where individuals feel heard, validated, and supported in their journey toward mental wellness. Through my experiences and insights gained from navigating Bipolar II, I aim to be an advocate and ally for patients, offering guidance, encouragement, and a genuine commitment to improving their overall well-being. Bipolar II has had a significant impact on my life and my career aspirations. Through my condition, I have learned the crucial significance of self-care, honest communication, and resilience in navigating life's challenges. These lessons have shaped my beliefs and equipped me with empathy, patience, and adaptability – essential for effective nursing care. My journey with Bipolar II has fortified my resolve to pursue a career in nursing, fostering a deep understanding of the critical role mental health plays in overall well-being. I am committed to leveraging my experiences and insights to contribute meaningfully, offering compassionate care and advocacy to those struggling with mental health challenges. With a steadfast commitment to holistic care and a sincere dedication to making a positive impact, I aspire to be a nurse who provides unwavering support and understanding to those in need, striving to enhance the quality of healthcare one empathetic interaction at a time.

Stethoscopes, shears, and syringes were packed into the doctor's playset, a well-loved and utilized bag of miracle cures. My little brother was my first patient, and I experienced much joy in clumsily applying disinfectant and bandaids to his scrapes and bruises. After reading an adolescent biology text, I pretended to carefully excise injured tissue from his leg with my plastic scalpel. However, I was not prepared to cure him when he suffered three significant breaks in his arm and foot. During two surgeries, titanium rods and screws were implanted in his tiny body, and I was in awe of the doctors and nurses who dutifully utilized the accurate versions of my playset parts to help repair his bones. However, after observing my mother soothe and heal her son with her nursing expertise, I slowly witnessed my career choice surfacing before my eyes. As a registered nurse and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, my mother has spent the past seventeen years teaching me that multifaceted healthcare includes medical, mental, and spiritual components. She instilled in me a desire to help others. I decided to start my journey in Emergency Medical Services at a local training program for teenagers who want to learn about the medical field. After earning CPR / AED, First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens certifications, COVID-19 interrupted my search for internships and further courses. To stay connected with hospitals, I started crocheting hats for babies in local hospitals and lived vicariously through my mother's horror stories of COVID-19. These stories only strengthened my conviction to become a nurse. Once school resumed, I joined my local firehouse as an EMT, rode in an ambulance, and responded to emergency calls. I also enrolled in a volunteer program in a local hospital's pediatric unit, where I interacted with and supported families experiencing the trauma of having a sick child. These experiences also solidified my passion for working at the bedside. Because nursing is a broad field with many opportunities to specialize, I wanted to explore additional concentrations further to make an informed decision in college and beyond. Therefore, I applied and was admitted to an oncology program at the FDA and a career development internship with Kaiser Permanente. The FDA program enhanced my oncology knowledge and augmented my understanding of toxicology and pharmacology. The Kaiser Permanente program allowed me to meet with dozens of practicing professionals, from physical therapists to pediatricians to ophthalmologists. At this juncture, I realized that I had a gap in my knowledge of psychology, so I secured an internship with a Johns Hopkins-backed med-psych company focusing on pediatric drug addiction and mental health. There, I immersed myself in the practicalities of research, recruited subjects for studies, and created communication tools to educate patients better. My passion for healthcare and research has only deepened throughout my college journey. The experiences I've garnered, from my initiation into shadowing at the hospital to my immersive fellowships at the university, have ignited an insatiable curiosity and an unwavering commitment to healthcare and research. Witnessing my mother's nurturing care as a Registered Nurse and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner has shaped my aspirations. Her emphasis on holistic healthcare—incorporating medical, mental, and spiritual facets—has resonated deeply with me. As I navigate diverse healthcare settings and engage in multifaceted research, I eagerly anticipate the fusion of these passions in my future career as a dedicated nurse and an ardent contributor to scientific inquiry and advancement in healthcare. My journey ahead promises to amalgamate the art of patient care with the pursuit of innovative research, an endeavor I am ardently enthusiastic about embracing.

Stethoscopes, shears, and syringes were packed into the doctor's playset, a well-loved and utilized bag of miracle cures. My little brother was my first patient, and I experienced much joy in clumsily applying disinfectant and bandaids to his scrapes and bruises. After reading an adolescent biology text, I pretended to carefully excise injured tissue from his leg with my plastic scalpel. However, I was not prepared to cure him when he suffered three significant breaks in his arm and foot. During two surgeries, titanium rods and screws were implanted in his tiny body, and I was in awe of the doctors and nurses who dutifully utilized the accurate versions of my playset parts to help repair his bones. However, after observing my mother soothe and heal her son with her nursing expertise, I slowly witnessed my career choice surfacing before my eyes. As a registered nurse and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, my mother has spent the past seventeen years teaching me that multifaceted healthcare includes medical, mental, and spiritual components. She instilled in me a desire to help others. I decided to start my journey in Emergency Medical Services at a local training program for teenagers who want to learn about the medical field. After earning CPR / AED, First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens certifications, COVID-19 interrupted my search for internships and further courses. To stay connected with hospitals, I started crocheting hats for babies in local hospitals and lived vicariously through my mother's horror stories of COVID-19. These stories only strengthened my conviction to become a nurse. Once school resumed, I joined my local firehouse as an EMT, rode in an ambulance, and responded to emergency calls. I also enrolled in a volunteer program in a local hospital's pediatric unit, where I interacted with and supported families experiencing the trauma of having a sick child. These experiences also solidified my passion for working at the bedside. Because nursing is a broad field with many opportunities to specialize, I wanted to explore additional concentrations further to make an informed decision in college and beyond. Therefore, I applied and was admitted to an oncology program at the FDA and a career development internship with Kaiser Permanente. The FDA program enhanced my oncology knowledge and augmented my understanding of toxicology and pharmacology. The Kaiser Permanente program allowed me to meet with dozens of practicing professionals, from physical therapists to pediatricians to ophthalmologists. At this juncture, I realized that I had a gap in my knowledge of psychology, so I secured an internship with a Johns Hopkins-backed med-psych company focusing on pediatric drug addiction and mental health. There, I immersed myself in the practicalities of research, recruited subjects for studies, and created communication tools to educate patients better. My passion for healthcare and research has only deepened throughout my college journey. The experiences I've garnered, from my initiation into shadowing at the hospital to my immersive fellowships at the university, have ignited an insatiable curiosity and an unwavering commitment to healthcare and research. Witnessing my mother's nurturing care as a Registered Nurse and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner has shaped my aspirations. Her emphasis on holistic healthcare—incorporating medical, mental, and spiritual facets—has resonated deeply with me. As I navigate diverse healthcare settings and engage in multifaceted research, I eagerly anticipate the fusion of these passions in my future career as a dedicated nurse and an ardent contributor to scientific inquiry and advancement in healthcare. My journey ahead promises to amalgamate the art of patient care with the pursuit of innovative research, an endeavor I am ardently enthusiastic about embracing.

Calculus is a branch of mathematics that deals with change, particularly in the form of rates of change and accumulation of quantities. Mathematics, including calculus, holds immense importance in nursing as it serves as the foundation for various critical aspects of patient care. Nurses use mathematical concepts to calculate medication dosages, track vital signs, interpret laboratory results, and assess patient data. Understanding mathematical principles enables nurses to make informed clinical decisions, create precise treatment plans, and ensure accurate administration of medications and therapies. So, a solid grasp of mathematics, including calculus, is fundamental in delivering safe and effective healthcare. Basic concepts of calculus in nursing involve comprehending rates of change, which find practical application in vital sign monitoring and medication dosage calculations. Nurses use the principles of calculus to interpret fluctuations in vital signs over time, such as heart rate, blood pressure, and respiratory rate. Understanding these rates of change aids in identifying deviations from normal ranges, enabling timely interventions. Moreover, calculus is crucial in calculating medication dosages, considering factors like drug concentration, patient weight, and infusion rates. Accurate dosage calculations based on these changing parameters are critical to ensure patients receive the proper medication for optimal therapeutic outcomes while minimizing the risk of adverse effects. Hence, a grasp of calculus assists nurses in maintaining precise and vigilant patient care. Calculus plays a crucial role in patient care in assessing and analyzing vital patient data. Nurses use mathematical principles to interpret complex laboratory results, comprehending values indicating a patient's health status. Moreover, calculus aids in calculating and monitoring fluid intake and output, which is essential for maintaining a patient's fluid balance. Precise calculations ensure an accurate assessment of urinary output, intravenous fluid administration, and hydration levels, which are integral in determining a patient's stability and response to treatment. This application of calculus in patient care enables nurses to make informed decisions and provide tailored interventions for optimal patient health and recovery. In advanced nursing specialties, calculus is pivotal in diverse domains, including anesthesia and critical care nursing. In anesthesia, calculus applications are instrumental in determining drug infusion rates, understanding pharmacokinetics, and calculating drug dosages based on patient-specific variables like body weight and metabolic rates. Additionally, in critical care nursing, calculus finds extensive use in hemodynamics. Nurses proficient in calculus use it to interpret complex hemodynamic parameters such as cardiac output, blood pressure, and vascular resistance, aiding in assessing and managing ill patients. Understanding these mathematical concepts is crucial for titrating medications and interventions, ensuring optimal patient outcomes within these specialized nursing fields in high-stakes medical scenarios. Calculus is a fundamental tool in nursing, serving as the backbone for various critical facets of patient care. Its significance is undeniable, shaping how nurses comprehend vital signs, calculate medication dosages, interpret laboratory results, and analyze patient data. The precision offered by calculus ensures accurate and tailored interventions, contributing to the safety and well-being of patients. Aspiring nurses must acknowledge and embrace calculus's vital role in nursing care. A solid foundation in mathematical principles, particularly calculus, is indispensable for nurses, empowering them to make informed clinical decisions and deliver safe, effective, and precise healthcare. It is imperative to recognize the importance of integrating calculus education into nursing curricula to prepare future healthcare professionals. Embracing calculus education equips nurses with the necessary skills to navigate the complexities of patient care, further enhancing the quality of healthcare delivery and fostering better patient outcomes in the dynamic landscape of modern healthcare.

Stethoscopes, shears, and syringes were packed into the doctor's playset, a well-loved and utilized bag of miracle cures. My little brother was my first patient, and I experienced much joy in clumsily applying disinfectant and bandaids to his scrapes and bruises. After reading an adolescent biology text, I pretended to carefully excise injured tissue from his leg with my plastic scalpel. However, I was not prepared to cure him when he suffered three significant breaks in his arm and foot. During two surgeries, titanium rods and screws were implanted in his tiny body, and I was in awe of the doctors and nurses who dutifully utilized the accurate versions of my playset parts to help repair his bones. However, after observing my mother soothe and heal her son with her nursing expertise, I slowly witnessed my career choice surfacing before my eyes. As a registered nurse and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, my mother has spent the past seventeen years teaching me that multifaceted healthcare includes medical, mental, and spiritual components. She instilled in me a desire to help others. I decided to start my journey in Emergency Medical Services at a local training program for teenagers who want to learn about the medical field. After earning CPR / AED, First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens certifications, COVID-19 interrupted my search for internships and further courses. To stay connected with hospitals, I started crocheting hats for babies in local hospitals and lived vicariously through my mother's horror stories of COVID-19. These stories only strengthened my conviction to become a nurse. Once school resumed, I joined my local firehouse as an EMT, rode in an ambulance, and responded to emergency calls. I also enrolled in a volunteer program in a local hospital's pediatric unit, where I interacted with and supported families experiencing the trauma of having a sick child. These experiences also solidified my passion for working at the bedside. Because nursing is a broad field with many opportunities to specialize, I wanted to explore additional concentrations further to make an informed decision in college and beyond. Therefore, I applied and was admitted to an oncology program at the FDA and a career development internship with Kaiser Permanente. The FDA program enhanced my oncology knowledge and augmented my understanding of toxicology and pharmacology. The Kaiser Permanente program allowed me to meet with dozens of practicing professionals, from physical therapists to pediatricians to ophthalmologists. At this juncture, I realized that I had a gap in my knowledge of psychology, so I secured an internship with a Johns Hopkins-backed med-psych company focusing on pediatric drug addiction and mental health. There, I immersed myself in the practicalities of research, recruited subjects for studies, and created communication tools to educate patients better. My passion for healthcare and research has only deepened throughout my college journey. The experiences I've garnered, from my initiation into shadowing at the hospital to my immersive fellowships at the university, have ignited an insatiable curiosity and an unwavering commitment to healthcare and research. Witnessing my mother's nurturing care as a Registered Nurse and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner has shaped my aspirations. Her emphasis on holistic healthcare—incorporating medical, mental, and spiritual facets—has resonated deeply with me. As I navigate diverse healthcare settings and engage in multifaceted research, I eagerly anticipate the fusion of these passions in my future career as a dedicated nurse and an ardent contributor to scientific inquiry and advancement in healthcare. My journey ahead promises to amalgamate the art of patient care with the pursuit of innovative research, an endeavor I am ardently enthusiastic about embracing.

Stethoscopes, shears, and syringes were packed into the doctor's playset, a well-loved and utilized bag of miracle cures. My little brother was my first patient, and I experienced much joy in clumsily applying disinfectant and bandaids to his scrapes and bruises. After reading an adolescent biology text, I pretended to carefully excise injured tissue from his leg with my plastic scalpel. However, I was not prepared to cure him when he suffered three significant breaks in his arm and foot. During two surgeries, titanium rods and screws were implanted in his tiny body, and I was in awe of the doctors and nurses who dutifully utilized the accurate versions of my playset parts to help repair his bones. However, after observing my mother soothe and heal her son with her nursing expertise, I slowly witnessed my career choice surfacing before my eyes. As a registered nurse and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, my mother has spent the past seventeen years teaching me that multifaceted healthcare includes medical, mental, and spiritual components. She instilled in me a desire to help others. I decided to start my journey in Emergency Medical Services at a local training program for teenagers who want to learn about the medical field. After earning CPR / AED, First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens certifications, COVID-19 interrupted my search for internships and further courses. To stay connected with hospitals, I started crocheting hats for babies in local hospitals and lived vicariously through my mother's horror stories of COVID-19. These stories only strengthened my conviction to become a nurse. Once school resumed, I joined my local firehouse as an EMT, rode in an ambulance, and responded to emergency calls. I also enrolled in a volunteer program in a local hospital's pediatric unit, where I interacted with and supported families experiencing the trauma of having a sick child. These experiences also solidified my passion for working at the bedside. Because nursing is a broad field with many opportunities to specialize, I wanted to explore additional concentrations further to make an informed decision in college and beyond. Therefore, I applied and was admitted to an oncology program at the FDA and a career development internship with Kaiser Permanente. The FDA program enhanced my oncology knowledge and augmented my understanding of toxicology and pharmacology. The Kaiser Permanente program allowed me to meet with dozens of practicing professionals, from physical therapists to pediatricians to ophthalmologists. At this juncture, I realized that I had a gap in my knowledge of psychology, so I secured an internship with a Johns Hopkins-backed med-psych company focusing on pediatric drug addiction and mental health. There, I immersed myself in the practicalities of research, recruited subjects for studies, and created communication tools to educate patients better. My passion for healthcare and research has only deepened throughout my college journey. The experiences I've garnered, from my initiation into shadowing at the hospital to my immersive fellowships at the university, have ignited an insatiable curiosity and an unwavering commitment to healthcare and research. Witnessing my mother's nurturing care as a Registered Nurse and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner has shaped my aspirations. Her emphasis on holistic healthcare—incorporating medical, mental, and spiritual facets—has resonated deeply with me. As I navigate diverse healthcare settings and engage in multifaceted research, I eagerly anticipate the fusion of these passions in my future career as a dedicated nurse and an ardent contributor to scientific inquiry and advancement in healthcare. My journey ahead promises to amalgamate the art of patient care with the pursuit of innovative research, an endeavor I am ardently enthusiastic about embracing.

Stethoscopes, shears, and syringes were packed into the doctor's playset, a well-loved and utilized bag of miracle cures. My little brother was my first patient, and I experienced much joy in clumsily applying disinfectant and bandaids to his scrapes and bruises. After reading an adolescent biology text, I pretended to carefully excise injured tissue from his leg with my plastic scalpel. However, I was not prepared to cure him when he suffered three significant breaks in his arm and foot. During two surgeries, titanium rods and screws were implanted in his tiny body, and I was in awe of the doctors and nurses who dutifully utilized the accurate versions of my playset parts to help repair his bones. However, after observing my mother soothe and heal her son with her nursing expertise, I slowly witnessed my career choice surfacing before my eyes. As a registered nurse and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, my mother has spent the past seventeen years teaching me that multifaceted healthcare includes medical, mental, and spiritual components. She instilled in me a desire to help others. I decided to start my journey in Emergency Medical Services at a local training program for teenagers who want to learn about the medical field. After earning CPR / AED, First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens certifications, COVID-19 interrupted my search for internships and further courses. To stay connected with hospitals, I started crocheting hats for babies in local hospitals and lived vicariously through my mother's horror stories of COVID-19. These stories only strengthened my conviction to become a nurse. Once school resumed, I joined my local firehouse as an EMT, rode in an ambulance, and responded to emergency calls. I also enrolled in a volunteer program in a local hospital's pediatric unit, where I interacted with and supported families experiencing the trauma of having a sick child. These experiences also solidified my passion for working at the bedside. Because nursing is a broad field with many opportunities to specialize, I wanted to explore additional concentrations further to make an informed decision in college and beyond. Therefore, I applied and was admitted to an oncology program at the FDA and a career development internship with Kaiser Permanente. At this juncture, I realized that I had a gap in my knowledge of psychology, so I secured an internship with a Johns Hopkins-backed med-psych company focusing on pediatric drug addiction and mental health. There, I immersed myself in the practicalities of research, recruited subjects for studies, and created communication tools to educate patients better. My passion for healthcare and research has only deepened throughout my college journey. As I navigate diverse healthcare settings and engage in multifaceted research opportunities, I seek to address systemic issues, particularly maternal healthcare. The staggering statistics surrounding black maternal mortality rates disturb me. I aspire to alleviate this disparity by becoming a labor and delivery nurse, dedicating my efforts to providing comprehensive care to expectant mothers, especially those from marginalized communities. My experiences in emergency medical services, volunteering in pediatric units, and immersing myself in various healthcare concentrations have fortified my resolve to pursue this specialized field. I aim to blend my passion for providing holistic care with my commitment to rigorous scientific inquiry to help mitigate the pressing issue of maternal mortality, ensuring every mother receives the care and support she deserves during this vulnerable phase of life.

Stethoscopes, shears, and syringes were packed into the doctor's playset, a well-loved and utilized bag of miracle cures. My little brother was my first patient, and I experienced much joy in clumsily applying disinfectant and bandaids to his scrapes and bruises. After reading an adolescent biology text, I pretended to carefully excise injured tissue from his leg with my plastic scalpel. However, I was not prepared to cure him when he suffered three significant breaks in his arm and foot. During two surgeries, titanium rods and screws were implanted in his tiny body, and I was in awe of the doctors and nurses who dutifully utilized the accurate versions of my playset parts to help repair his bones. However, after observing my mother soothe and heal her son with her nursing expertise, I slowly witnessed my career choice surfacing before my eyes. As a registered nurse and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, my mother has spent the past seventeen years teaching me that multifaceted healthcare includes medical, mental, and spiritual components. She instilled in me a desire to help others. I decided to start my journey in Emergency Medical Services at a local training program for teenagers who want to learn about the medical field. After earning CPR / AED, First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens certifications, COVID-19 interrupted my search for internships and further courses. To stay connected with hospitals, I started crocheting hats for babies in local hospitals and lived vicariously through my mother's horror stories of COVID-19. These stories only strengthened my conviction to become a nurse. Once school resumed, I joined my local firehouse as an EMT, rode in an ambulance, and responded to emergency calls. I also enrolled in a volunteer program in a local hospital's pediatric unit, where I interacted with and supported families experiencing the trauma of having a sick child. These experiences also solidified my passion for working at the bedside. Because nursing is a broad field with many opportunities to specialize, I wanted to explore additional concentrations further to make an informed decision in college and beyond. Therefore, I applied and was admitted to an oncology program at the FDA and a career development internship with Kaiser Permanente. The FDA program enhanced my oncology knowledge and augmented my understanding of toxicology and pharmacology. The Kaiser Permanente program allowed me to meet with dozens of practicing professionals, from physical therapists to pediatricians to ophthalmologists. At this juncture, I realized that I had a gap in my knowledge of psychology, so I secured an internship with a Johns Hopkins-backed med-psych company focusing on pediatric drug addiction and mental health. There, I immersed myself in the practicalities of research, recruited subjects for studies, and created communication tools to educate patients better. My passion for healthcare and research has only deepened throughout my college journey. The experiences I've garnered, from my initiation into shadowing at the hospital to my immersive fellowships at the university, have ignited an insatiable curiosity and an unwavering commitment to healthcare and research. Witnessing my mother's nurturing care as a Registered Nurse and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner has shaped my aspirations. Her emphasis on holistic healthcare—incorporating medical, mental, and spiritual facets—has resonated deeply with me. As I navigate diverse healthcare settings and engage in multifaceted research, I eagerly anticipate the fusion of these passions in my future career as a dedicated nurse and an ardent contributor to scientific inquiry and advancement in healthcare. My journey ahead promises to amalgamate the art of patient care with the pursuit of innovative research, an endeavor I am ardently enthusiastic about embracing.

As a devout Muslim, my identity has played a pivotal role in shaping my academic goals at Georgetown University and my career aspirations in nursing. The values instilled by Islam, such as compassion, empathy, and service to humanity, have profoundly influenced my path, guiding me toward a career where I can make a meaningful impact on others' lives. This essay explores how my Muslim identity has shaped my ambitions, how my pursuit of knowledge aligns with the principles of Islam, and how receiving this scholarship would propel me closer to achieving my dreams. Islam places significant emphasis on seeking knowledge as a sacred duty for all Muslims. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) urged his followers to seek wisdom from the cradle to the grave. This principle has driven my determination to excel academically at Georgetown University. Education is an intellectual pursuit and a means to serve others better. Islam encourages lifelong learning, and this conviction has motivated me to set ambitious academic goals to become a knowledgeable and skilled nurse. At the core of Islam lies the principle of compassion and caring for others. As a Muslim, I am called to be of service to humanity and extend a helping hand to those in need. Focusing on patient care and well-being, nursing aligns perfectly with these principles. Through my academic journey, I aim to acquire the expertise and skills necessary to provide compassionate and culturally sensitive care to patients, regardless of their background. Islam celebrates diversity and unity, and my Muslim identity has reinforced my commitment to fostering an inclusive environment within the healthcare system. As a nursing professional, I aspire to promote cultural understanding and provide care that respects patients' beliefs and practices. My time at Georgetown has exposed me to a diverse community, encouraging me to learn from others' experiences and embrace differences. Islamic teachings stress the importance of ethical conduct in all aspects of life. These teachings have significantly influenced my perspective on ethical dilemmas and decision-making in healthcare. Nursing requires professionals to make critical choices while prioritizing patient welfare. My Muslim identity has strengthened my resolve to always act ethically, advocating for patients' rights and maintaining their dignity and autonomy. Receiving this scholarship would be instrumental in helping me achieve my academic and career goals in nursing. As a nursing student at Georgetown University, I have been dedicated to maintaining academic excellence while balancing financial responsibilities. This scholarship would alleviate the burden of financial constraints, allowing me to focus wholeheartedly on my studies and clinical experiences. Additionally, the scholarship would provide access to resources and opportunities that could enrich my learning experience. It could enable me to participate in medical missions or volunteer initiatives that align with my Muslim values of service and empathy, further preparing me to be a compassionate and globally aware nurse. My Muslim identity has been an unwavering force in shaping my academic and career pursuits at Georgetown University in nursing. The principles of compassion, service, education, inclusivity, and ethics, deeply rooted in Islamic teachings, have guided me on this transformative journey. With this scholarship's support, I can continue to grow academically and professionally, empowered to make a profound difference in the lives of patients and communities in need. As I embrace my Muslim identity, I am determined to leave a lasting impact through my dedication to nursing, promoting healing and compassion to all I encounter.

Music therapy is a powerful and transformative healing modality that has the potential to reshape the way individuals perceive the world and aid in their journey toward recovery from traumatic experiences. In the aftermath of an abusive relationship, healing from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can be arduous and overwhelming. This essay delves into how music therapy has played a pivotal role in shaping my perspective on life and supporting my healing process as I navigated the complexities of PTSD after enduring an abusive relationship. As a non-invasive and expressive medium, music therapy can reach deep within the human psyche, evoking emotions that may notdifficult to articulate. It bridges the conscious and subconscious mind, enabling individuals to explore their inner thoughts and feelings in a safe and controlled environment. The power of music lies in its capacity to engage multiple senses, offering a holistic approach to healing. In the aftermath of an abusive relationship, my worldview had been clouded by fear, mistrust, and a distorted sense of self-worth. Engaging in music therapy allowed me to explore and process these emotions in a way that traditional talk therapy alone couldn't accomplish. I understood my emotions better through improvisation, songwriting, and listening to carefully curated playlists, gaining new insights into my experiences and perceptions. During the healing process, it is common for abuse survivors to feel voiceless and disempowered. However, music therapy provided a safe space for me to reclaim my voice and express emotions that had long been suppressed. In vocalizing my pain, anger, and grief, I began to dismantle the emotional barriers that had kept me trapped in a cycle of trauma. The rhythmic quality of music can serve as a grounding force during distress. In moments when flashbacks and panic attacks threatened to overwhelm me, engaging in rhythmic activities, such as drumming or dancing, helped restore a sense of stability and control. These rhythmic interventions soothed my nervous system and reminded me of my resilience and capacity to find harmony amid chaos. One of the most significant challenges in the aftermath of abuse is rebuilding trust in oneself and others. Through group music therapy sessions, I gradually learned to trust and connect with others who had experienced similar traumas. The shared experience of creating music together fostered a sense of camaraderie and belonging, easing the isolation that often accompanies PTSD recovery. PTSD can often accompany trapped in the past, replaying traumatic events on a loop. Music therapy offered an opportunity to engage in mindfulness through active listening, focusing on the present moment and the sensations elicited by the music. This mindful approach allowed me to break free from the chains of the past, bringing attention to the beauty and healing potential of the present. Music therapy has been a transformative force in my healing journey following an abusive relationship. It allowed me to view the world through a lens of healing and self-empowerment, helping me find my voice, process complex emotions, and rebuild trust in myself and others. The power of music therapy lies not only in its ability to provide emotional release but also in its capacity to foster connections with others, promote mindfulness, and offer a pathway to self-discovery. As I progress in my healing journey, I carry with me the melodic liberation that music therapy has granted me, reminding me that hope, strength, and resilience can be found in the harmony of life's unfolding symphony.

Stethoscopes, shears, and syringes were packed into the doctor's playset, a well-loved and utilized bag of miracle cures. My little brother was my first patient, and I experienced much joy in clumsily applying disinfectant and bandaids to his scrapes and bruises. After reading an adolescent biology text, I pretended to carefully excise injured tissue from his leg with my plastic scalpel. However, I was not prepared to cure him when he suffered three significant breaks in his arm and foot. During two surgeries, titanium rods and screws were implanted in his tiny body. I was in awe of the doctors and nurses who dutifully utilized the real versions of my playset parts to help repair his bones. After observing my mother soothe and heal her son with her nursing expertise, I slowly witnessed my career choice surfacing before my eyes. As a Nurse Practitioner, my mother has spent the past seventeen years teaching me that multifaceted healthcare includes physical, mental, and spiritual components. She instilled in me a desire to help others. I decided to start my journey in Emergency Medical Services at a local training program for teenagers who want to learn about the medical field. After earning CPR/AED, First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens certifications Covid-19 interrupted my search for internships and further courses. To stay connected with hospitals, I started crocheting hats for babies in local hospitals. I lived vicariously through my mother's horror stories of COVID-19 on the front lines with her labor and delivery patients. These stories only strengthened my conviction to become a nurse. Once in-person school resumed, I joined my local firehouse as an EMT, rode in an ambulance, and responded to emergency calls. I also enrolled in a volunteer program in a local hospital's pediatric unit, where I interacted with nurses to support families during their child's illness. These experiences also solidified my passion for working as a nurse at the bedside. Since nursing is a broad field and there are so many opportunities to specialize, I wanted to further explore some different concentrations to make an informed decision in college and beyond. I therefore applied and was admitted to several summer programs. One of these was a career development internship with Kaiser Permanente. The Kaiser Permanente program allowed me to meet with dozens of practicing healthcare professionals, from physical therapists to pediatricians, to ophthalmologists. At this juncture, I realized that I had a gap in my knowledge of psychology, so I had an internship with a Johns Hopkins-backed med-psych company (CHADIS) focusing on pediatric drug addiction and mental health. There, I immersed myself in the practicalities of research, recruited subjects for studies, and created communication tools to educate patients better. At this time, I am prepared to take my education to the next level by studying nursing science at Georgetown University. Through my nursing journey, I hope to foster a sense of interconnectedness and compassion within society. By extending a helping hand to those in need, I will alleviate their struggles and cultivate a more empathetic and cohesive community. I believe support can create a ripple effect, inspiring others to follow suit and creating a chain reaction of positivity. Moreover, assisting others in this field will allow me to gain a broader perspective on life, encouraging me to be grateful for what I have and instilling a sense of fulfillment and purpose. Ultimately, through my career, I will contribute to building a stronger, more supportive, and harmonious world for everyone to thrive in.

Stethoscopes, shears, and syringes were packed into the doctor's playset, a well-loved and utilized bag of miracle cures. My little brother was my first patient, and I experienced much joy in clumsily applying disinfectant and bandaids to his scrapes and bruises. After reading an adolescent biology text, I pretended to carefully excise injured tissue from his leg with my plastic scalpel. However, I was not prepared to cure him when he suffered three significant breaks in his arm and foot. During two surgeries, titanium rods and screws were implanted in his tiny body. I was in awe of the doctors and nurses who dutifully utilized the real versions of my playset parts to help repair his bones. After observing my mother soothe and heal her son with her nursing expertise, I slowly witnessed my career choice surfacing before my eyes. As a Nurse Practitioner, my mother has spent the past seventeen years teaching me that multifaceted healthcare includes physical, mental, and spiritual components. She instilled in me a desire to help others. I decided to start my journey in Emergency Medical Services at a local training program for teenagers who want to learn about the medical field. After earning CPR/AED, First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens certifications Covid-19 interrupted my search for internships and further courses. To stay connected with hospitals, I started crocheting hats for babies in local hospitals and lived vicariously through my mother's horror stories of COVID-19 on the front lines with her labor and delivery patients. These stories only strengthened my conviction to become a nurse. Once in-person school resumed, I joined my local firehouse as an EMT, rode in an ambulance, and responded to emergency calls. I also enrolled in a volunteer program in a local hospital's pediatric unit, where I interacted with nurses to support families during their child's illness. These experiences also solidified my passion for working as a nurse at the bedside. Since nursing is a broad field and there are so many opportunities to specialize, I wanted to further explore some different concentrations to make an informed decision in college and beyond. I therefore applied and was admitted to several summer programs. One of these was a career development internship with Kaiser Permanente. The Kaiser Permanente program allowed me to meet with dozens of practicing healthcare professionals, from physical therapists to pediatricians, to ophthalmologists. At this juncture, I realized that I had a gap in my knowledge of psychology, so I had an internship with a Johns Hopkins-backed med-psych company (CHADIS) focusing on pediatric drug addiction and mental health. There, I immersed myself in the practicalities of research, recruited subjects for studies, and created communication tools to better educate patients. At this time, I am prepared to take my education to the next level by studying nursing science at Georgetown University. With the money from this scholarship, I will be able to follow my dreams of tangibly assisting my community and creating better lives for all.

Books possess an incredible capacity to educate, inspire, and transform individuals. As an avid reader, I have been fortunate to immerse myself in a vast array of fiction and non-fiction literature that has enriched my understanding of the world and influenced my aspirations in nursing. These books have imparted valuable lessons, fostering empathy, igniting passion, and shaping my goals in the nursing profession. In this essay, I will explore the profound impact that books have had on my personal growth and how they have influenced my career goals in nursing. Books have served as portals that transport me into the lives and experiences of diverse characters, unveiling the depths of human emotions and struggles. Through these narratives, I have developed a deep empathy, understanding the complex circumstances that shape individuals' lives. Books like "The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down" by Anne Fadiman and "Being Mortal" by Atul Gawande have shed light on cultural diversity, healthcare disparities, and end-of-life care. They have underscored the importance of compassionate and culturally sensitive care, inspiring me to strive for equitable healthcare. Literature has kindled within me a profound compassion for others and a strong desire to advocate for those in need. Books like "The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks" by Rebecca Skloot and "Mountains Beyond Mountains" by Tracy Kidder have exposed me to the struggles and injustices faced by marginalized communities. These narratives have motivated me to pursue nursing to effect positive change, fight for equitable access to healthcare, and address systemic healthcare disparities. They have reinforced the need to voice for the voiceless and champion social justice within the healthcare system. The books I have read in the nursing field, such as textbooks, research articles, and memoirs by experienced nurses, have broadened my knowledge and understanding of the profession. These resources have equipped me with the foundational knowledge and critical thinking skills necessary to excel in nursing practice. Moreover, they have emphasized the importance of continuous learning and professional growth. Books like "The Checklist Manifesto" by Atul Gawande and "Nursing: The Philosophy and Science of Caring" by Jean Watson have inspired me to strive for excellence, embrace evidence-based practice, and constantly seek opportunities to expand my nursing skills and knowledge. Many books have illuminated the transformative power of healing, resilience, and the human spirit. Works such as "The Diving Bell and the Butterfly" by Jean-Dominique Bauby and "When Breath Becomes Air" by Paul Kalanithi have shown me patients' and healthcare providers' immense strength and determination. These stories have reinforced the importance of providing holistic care that addresses physical ailments and emotional, psychological, and spiritual needs. They have inspired me to approach nursing with compassion, empathy, and an unwavering commitment to supporting patients in their healing and well-being journey. The books I have read throughout my life have been more than mere stories on paper. They have been mentors, guides, and catalysts for personal and professional growth. Literature has fostered empathy, inspired compassion and advocacy, encouraged lifelong learning, and illuminated the transformative power of healing and resilience. These invaluable lessons have shaped my goals in nursing, igniting a passion for equitable healthcare, social justice, and holistic care. As I embark on my nursing career, I carry with me the profound impact of these books, determined to make a difference in patients' lives and contribute to advancing the nursing profession.

Embarking on a journey in the nursing profession is both exhilarating and challenging. As I contemplate my future educational path, Georgetown University's nursing program shines brightly as an exceptional opportunity. The program's commitment to excellence, innovative curriculum, and emphasis on holistic care excites me tremendously. Equally significant is the necessity to maintain a healthy mind, body, and soul amidst the inevitable challenges of nursing school. This essay will explore the aspects of Georgetown's nursing program that ignite my enthusiasm and outline strategies to nurture balanced well-being throughout my educational journey. Georgetown University's nursing program is renowned for its commitment to excellence in nursing education. The program's rigorous academic standards, distinguished faculty, and state-of-the-art facilities offer an enriching and comprehensive learning environment. The prospect of being challenged intellectually and acquiring the knowledge and skills necessary to provide high-quality patient care excites me immensely. The program's integration of innovative technologies and evidence-based practices demonstrates its dedication to preparing future nurses to adapt to the ever-evolving healthcare landscape. Georgetown's nursing program recognizes the importance of holistic care, acknowledging that individuals are more than just their physical symptoms. The curriculum prioritizes the integration of physical, emotional, and spiritual dimensions of health. This approach aligns with my belief that true healing encompasses the whole person's well-being. The opportunity to develop comprehensive patient care skills that consider physical ailments and psychological, social, and spiritual aspects fills me with anticipation. Georgetown's emphasis on holistic care assures me that I will be equipped to make a genuine difference in my patients' lives. Maintaining a healthy mind, body, and soul is vital in the demanding journey of nursing school. It is essential to develop strategies that foster well-being amidst the challenges. Here are some approaches I intend to employ: I will allocate time for self-care activities such as exercise, hobbies, and quality time with loved ones. Engaging in enjoyable and relaxing activities will help me recharge and maintain a healthy mindset. Surrounding myself with a supportive network of friends, family, and fellow nursing students will provide the emotional and social support needed during challenging times. Sharing experiences, seeking advice, and offering support to others fosters resilience and camaraderie. Implementing effective time management strategies, such as creating schedules and prioritizing tasks, will enable me to balance academic responsibilities with personal well-being. By staying organized, I can reduce stress and maintain a clear mind. Actively seeking guidance from professors, mentors, and professionals in the nursing field will provide valuable insights, encouragement, and advice. Their wisdom and experience will be a source of inspiration and guidance during challenging moments. Incorporating mindfulness practices like meditation and reflection will help me stay present, manage stress, and cultivate self-awareness. Taking time to reflect on my experiences, strengths, and areas for growth will facilitate personal and professional development. Georgetown University's nursing program encompasses the perfect blend of academic excellence, holistic care, and innovation that excite me tremendously about pursuing my nursing education. The opportunity to develop the necessary skills to provide comprehensive patient care and contribute to nursing is both exhilarating and fulfilling. However, it is equally crucial to prioritize self-care and maintain a healthy mind, body, and soul throughout the challenges of nursing school. By implementing strategies such as self-care, building support systems, effective time management, seeking guidance, and practicing mindfulness, I am confident that I can achieve balanced well-being and succeed in my academic and personal pursuits.

Books can shape minds, broaden perspectives, and ignite the imagination. If there were one book I could recommend to every person on Earth, it would undoubtedly be "Ender's Game" by Orson Scott Card. From fostering critical thinking to examining ethical dilemmas, "Ender's Game" provides a thought-provoking journey that resonates with readers of all ages. "Ender's Game" transports readers into the mind of its protagonist, Ender Wiggin, a young genius chosen to save humanity from an imminent alien threat. Ender's experiences, including his struggles, triumphs, and isolation, elicit a profound sense of empathy within readers. By delving into Ender's psyche, the book exposes the psychological impact of isolation, bullying, and the weight of high expectations. At its core, "Ender's Game" is a story of strategy, tactics, and the art of war. Ender's journey challenges readers to think critically, analyze situations, and devise creative solutions. The book highlights the importance of adaptability, innovation, and the ability to anticipate one's opponents' moves. The lessons in strategic thinking extend beyond the boundaries of warfare. They inspire readers to approach real-life challenges with a similar mindset, emphasizing the importance of considering multiple perspectives, anticipating consequences, and finding innovative solutions. By introducing readers to the complexities of strategy, "Ender's Game" equips individuals with valuable skills applicable to various aspects of life. "Ender's Game" expertly explores the ethical dilemmas that arise in the face of desperate circumstances. As Ender grapples with his conscience while engaged in battles against the alien race known as the Formics, readers are confronted with moral ambiguity and the blurred lines between right and wrong. The book prompts readers to ponder the ethics of sacrifice, the nature of loyalty, and the costs of achieving victory. By examining these complex ethical questions, "Ender's Game" challenges readers to think beyond black-and-white judgments, encouraging them to engage in nuanced ethical reasoning. This exploration of moral gray areas prompts individuals to question their values, beliefs, and actions. Ultimately, it cultivates a more thoughtful and introspective society. "Ender's Game" by Orson Scott Card has the power to resonate with people from diverse backgrounds, inviting them into a world where empathy, strategic thinking, and ethical dilemmas intertwine. If every person in the world were to read "Ender's Game," It would spark a profound shift in our consciousness, paving the way for a more empathetic, strategic, and ethically aware society.

Stethoscopes, shears, and syringes were packed into the doctor's playset, a well-loved and utilized bag of miracle cures. My little brother was my first patient, and I experienced much joy in clumsily applying disinfectant and bandaids to his scrapes and bruises. After reading an adolescent biology text, I pretended to carefully excise injured tissue from his leg with my plastic scalpel. However, I was not prepared to cure him when he suffered three significant breaks in his arm and foot. During two surgeries, titanium rods and screws were implanted in his tiny body. I was in awe of the doctors and nurses who dutifully utilized the real versions of my playset parts to help repair his bones. After observing my mother soothe and heal her son with her nursing expertise, I slowly witnessed my career choice surfacing before my eyes. As a Nurse Practitioner, my mother has spent the past seventeen years teaching me that multifaceted healthcare includes physical, mental, and spiritual components. She instilled in me a desire to help others. I decided to start my journey in Emergency Medical Services at a local training program for teenagers who want to learn about the medical field. After earning CPR/AED, First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens certifications Covid-19 interrupted my search for internships and further courses. To stay connected with hospitals, I started crocheting hats for babies in local hospitals and lived vicariously through my mother's horror stories of COVID-19 on the front lines with her labor and delivery patients. These stories only strengthened my conviction to become a nurse. Once in-person school resumed, I joined my local firehouse as an EMT, rode in an ambulance, and responded to emergency calls. I also enrolled in a volunteer program in a local hospital's pediatric unit, where I interacted with nurses to support families during their child's illness. These experiences also solidified my passion for working as a nurse at the bedside. Since nursing is a broad field and there are so many opportunities to specialize, I wanted to further explore some different concentrations to make an informed decision in college and beyond. I therefore applied and was admitted to several summer programs. One of these was a career development internship with Kaiser Permanente. The Kaiser Permanente program allowed me to meet with dozens of practicing healthcare professionals, from physical therapists to pediatricians, to ophthalmologists. At this juncture, I realized that I had a gap in my knowledge of psychology, so I had an internship with a Johns Hopkins-backed med-psych company (CHADIS) focusing on pediatric drug addiction and mental health. There, I immersed myself in the practicalities of research, recruited subjects for studies, and created communication tools to better educate patients. I look forward to growing my skillset within Georgetown University School of Nursing's diverse academic community. Building upon my experiences, which have given me a strong desire to learn more, I seek to build a solid foundation in earning my BSN. At this time, I am prepared to take my education to the next level and study nursing science at Georgetown to tangibly assist and heal members of my community and beyond.

In the realm of imagination, the Barbie Dream House is an iconic symbol of dreams, aspirations, and endless possibilities. As the architect of this marvelous abode, I am pleased to unveil a vision beyond mere aesthetics. This Dream House is not just a place for dreams to flourish but also a beacon of community engagement in the bustling city of Baltimore, Maryland. Nestled within the heart of Baltimore, the Barbie Dream House stands tall in a neighborhood brimming with diversity, history, and culture. Its prime location allows residents and visitors to experience the best of what this enchanting city has to offer. Surrounded by lush greenery and nearby amenities, the Dream House strikes a perfect balance between serenity and urban vibrancy. The Barbie Dream House is an architectural marvel, showcasing classic elegance and modern design. Its exterior boasts a brilliant combination of pastel colors, with a soft pink facade accented by white trimmings. The house stands proudly with three stories, adorned with large windows that fill every room with natural light. A grand entrance welcomes guests with an intricately designed front door and a charming wraparound porch. Inside, the Dream House is a symphony of sophistication and whimsy. The foyer leads to a spacious living room decorated with plush furniture, crystal chandeliers, and vibrant artwork. The kitchen is a chef's paradise, with state-of-the-art appliances, a central island, and a cozy breakfast nook. A spiral staircase gracefully ascends to the second and third floors, where the bedrooms and a glamorous dressing room await. Each room is uniquely designed to reflect various themes and styles, catering to every Barbie's ever-evolving tastes. The Dream House also features a magnificent entertainment area with a private cinema, a game room, and a dance studio. In the backyard, a sparkling swimming pool and a lush garden provide an oasis for relaxation and outdoor gatherings. A rooftop terrace offers breathtaking city skyline views, perfect for hosting glamorous parties or enjoying peaceful moments under the stars. Beyond its exquisite interiors, the Barbie Dream House is dedicated to serving and uplifting the local community of Baltimore. It opens its doors as a hub of creativity and education, offering workshops and mentorship programs that encourage young minds to explore various fields, such as science, art, and entrepreneurship. The Dream House collaborates with local schools, inviting students to participate in special events and providing scholarships to deserving individuals. Additionally, the Dream House hosts charitable fundraisers and community outreach programs, supporting local initiatives that aim to improve the lives of Baltimore residents. It partners with organizations focused on environmental sustainability, women's empowerment, and youth development, extending its influence beyond its pink walls and into the city's heart. Creating a Barbie Dream House in Baltimore, Maryland, symbolizes more than just luxury and indulgence. It represents a commitment to fostering creativity, inspiring young minds, and positively impacting the community. With its stunning appearance, fabulous features, and dedication to community enrichment, this Dream House is a testament to the power of imagination and the potential to create a better world, one dream at a time.

The death of a loved one, particularly a mother, is an experience that reverberates through every fiber of one's being. My mother's presence was an unwavering anchor, providing me with boundless love, support, and guidance. She was the rock upon which I built my foundation, and her sudden departure created an indescribable void that seemed insurmountable. The loss of her physical presence challenged my emotional well-being and forced me to navigate the intricate labyrinth of grief. As if grappling with the emotional turmoil was not enough, I also had to navigate the practical aspects of life without my mother's guidance and support. Simple daily tasks once taken for granted now became daunting hurdles to overcome. From managing household responsibilities to making important life decisions, I was thrust into uncharted territory, grappling with disorientation and a deep longing for the familiar comfort of my mother's wisdom and guidance. Amid my grief, Muay Thai became more than just a sport; it became a lifeline that helped me find solace and regain a sense of purpose. The intense physical training and focus required in Muay Thai served as a powerful outlet for my emotions, allowing me to channel my pain and transform it into strength. The discipline and mental fortitude developed in the gym began to permeate all aspects of my life, providing me with the tools to navigate my challenges. Through Muay Thai, I also found a supportive community that embraced me with open arms. Training alongside passionate individuals who shared a common love for the sport gave me a sense of belonging and camaraderie. Their encouragement and unwavering support reminded me I was not alone in my healing journey. As I embark on a career in nursing, I am determined to integrate the invaluable lessons learned from my mother's passing and the transformative power of Muay Thai into my practice. Just as my mother provided unwavering love, support, and guidance, I aim to extend the same level of compassion and care to my patients. The resilience and discipline cultivated through my training will enable me to remain steadfast in adversity, advocating for the well-being and dignity of every individual under my care. Moreover, my experiences have ignited a passion for addressing the systemic challenges within healthcare and striving for a more equitable and inclusive system. By actively participating in initiatives to improve healthcare access for marginalized communities, I aspire to contribute to a future where everyone receives the care they deserve, regardless of their background or circumstances. My mother's death has left an indelible mark on my life, propelling me to discover strength and resilience through the practice of Muay Thai. This transformative journey has shaped my decision to pursue a career in nursing, where I can honor my mother's legacy and positively impact the lives of others. By integrating the lessons learned from the loss and the sport into my nursing practice, I am committed to transforming tragedy into triumph and creating a legacy of compassion, resilience, and advocacy that mirrors my mother's profound impact on my life.

The death of a loved one, especially a mother, is a deeply profound and life-altering experience. Her presence was an anchor, providing unwavering love, support, and guidance. Her sudden departure left an impossible void, challenging my emotional well-being and forcing me to navigate the complexities of grief. In the aftermath of my mother's death, I faced numerous challenges. The weight of sorrow and grief often felt overwhelming, impacting my mental and emotional health. Navigating daily life without her guidance and support proved daunting, leaving me adrift. Moreover, the financial burdens accompanying her passing stressed an already tricky situation. Amidst the darkness, I discovered Muay Thai—a combat sport that would transform my life. Through training in Muay Thai, I found an outlet for my emotions, a sense of discipline, and a community that provided support and encouragement. The sport's physical demands strengthened my body and served as a symbolic journey of healing and personal growth. Muay Thai taught me resilience, perseverance, and mental fortitude. It instilled in me a belief that I could overcome adversity and thrive despite the challenges life threw at me. The discipline required in training translated into other areas of my life, helping me build determination, focus, and a strong work ethic. My mother's unwavering support and compassion inspired me to pursue a career in nursing—a profession that allows me to continue her legacy of caring for others. Nursing is a calling that aligns perfectly with my values and desires to impact people's lives positively. In nursing, I see an opportunity to transform tragedy into triumph. By providing compassionate care, empathy, and support to patients and their families, I aim to honor my mother's memory and give back to others in need. I want to continue her legacy of selflessness, kindness, and love by embodying those qualities in my interactions with patients, making a difference in their lives during their most vulnerable moments. Furthermore, nursing offers a platform for me to create a lasting impact beyond direct patient care. I aspire to advocate for improved healthcare access, particularly for marginalized communities, and address health disparities. By leveraging my experiences, knowledge, and voice, I aim to be an agent of change, striving for a healthcare system that is equitable, inclusive, and compassionate for all. My mother's death has profoundly affected me, presenting immense challenges along my journey. However, through the transformative power of Muay Thai, I discovered resilience, discipline, and personal growth. In honor of my mother's legacy, I am committed to pursuing a career in nursing, where I can provide compassionate care and positively impact patients and their families. Through my work in nursing and beyond, I intend to pay it forward, transforming tragedy into triumph and continuing my mother's legacy of selflessness, compassion, and love.

As a member of the LGBTQ+ community and a nursing student, I have embarked on a personal and professional journey that intertwines my identity, experiences, and career aspirations. In this essay, I will share my story, exploring how the LGBTQ+ community has impacted my life, particularly my bisexual identity, and why I chose to major in nursing. Growing up, I gradually discovered and embraced my bisexuality, understanding that love knows no gender boundaries. My journey towards self-acceptance and self-love has been influenced by the LGBTQ+ community, whose support and visibility have played a pivotal role in my life. The LGBTQ+ community has provided a safe space where I can be my authentic self, surrounded by individuals with similar experiences and challenges. I have found solace, empowerment, and a sense of belonging through various organizations, events, and online communities. Connecting with others who understand the complexities of navigating sexuality and gender identity has fostered self-confidence and resilience. Moreover, witnessing the struggles and discrimination faced by members of the LGBTQ+ community has ignited a deep passion within me to contribute to positive change. I am driven to advocate for equal rights, challenge societal biases, and promote inclusivity within healthcare and society. My decision to major in nursing was influenced by a combination of personal experiences and a desire to make a meaningful impact on individuals' lives. Nursing provides a unique opportunity to work with diverse populations and engage with people from various backgrounds. I believe that every individual, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other aspect of their identity, deserves quality healthcare that is compassionate, respectful, and inclusive. By becoming a nurse, I aim to contribute to the provision of equitable care for all, ensuring that LGBTQ+ individuals feel seen, heard, and understood. Within the nursing profession, I am committed to advocating for LGBTQ+ patients. I aspire to educate healthcare providers about this community's specific needs and challenges, promoting cultural competency and sensitivity. Through open dialogue, I hope to break down stereotypes and dismantle barriers that impede equitable healthcare access for LGBTQ+ individuals. Nursing is founded on the principles of holistic care, encompassing physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Understanding the unique health disparities and mental health challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals, I am determined to provide comprehensive care that addresses their specific needs. I aim to foster trust and open communication by creating a safe and affirming environment, allowing patients to share their experiences and concerns. One of the most rewarding aspects of nursing is the opportunity to impact people's lives during vulnerable moments positively. By choosing this profession, I am driven to provide compassionate care and support and empower individuals to achieve optimal health outcomes. Through acts of kindness, active listening, and empathy, I strive to create an environment where LGBTQ+ patients feel respected, valued, and validated. Being a member of the LGBTQ+ community has shaped my identity and perspective, propelling me to pursue a career in nursing that aligns with my values of compassion, advocacy, and inclusivity. The experiences, support, and challenges encountered within the LGBTQ+ community have reinforced my commitment to promoting equality, understanding, and dignity in healthcare. Through my journey as an LGBTQ nursing student, I aim to contribute to a more compassionate and affirming healthcare environment where everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, receives the care they deserve.

The abortion debate has been one of the most contentious issues in society, with perspectives often shaped by personal experiences and values. As a nursing student, my experiences have played a profound role in shaping my pro-life position. Witnessing the miracle of life, understanding the intrinsic value and dignity of every human being, and engaging in various actions and activities, I have developed a deep commitment to promoting the sanctity of all lives, especially the unborn. As a nursing student, I have witnessed the awe-inspiring process of life unfolding before my eyes. From assisting in the delivery room to caring for premature infants in the neonatal intensive care unit, these experiences have provided me with a profound appreciation for the beauty and fragility of life. Holding a tiny, fragile newborn in my hands has instilled in me an unwavering belief that every life, regardless of its stage of development, holds inherent worth and deserves protection. Through my nursing education, I have comprehended the fundamental concept of human dignity. Everyone possesses an inherent worth that cannot be compromised from conception to natural death. I have learned to view the unborn as fellow human beings deserving the same love, respect, and protection as any other person. Recognizing this dignity compels me to advocate for the rights and well-being of the unborn. My education emphasizes the cultivation of empathy and compassion toward all individuals. These qualities have deepened my commitment to the pro-life cause. By placing myself in the shoes of vulnerable women facing unplanned pregnancies, I strive to offer support, understanding, and alternatives to abortion. I believe that by addressing the underlying concerns and providing compassionate care, we can foster an environment that values both mother and child. I engage in various actions and activities to promote the value and dignity of all human beings, especially the unborn. Education and awareness are paramount in this regard. I actively participate in pro-life organizations and utilize platforms to disseminate accurate information about fetal development, the consequences of abortion, and available alternatives. By sharing knowledge, I aim to empower individuals to make informed choices and highlight life's potential in the womb. In collaboration with pro-life organizations and healthcare professionals, I actively participate in initiatives supporting women facing unplanned pregnancies. These initiatives provide counseling, resources, and assistance with adoption services. By engaging in such activities, I strive to create an environment where women are empowered to choose life, knowing they have the necessary support systems to nurture themselves and their unborn children. I recognize the importance of advocating for ethical alternatives to abortion and support policies and initiatives that prioritize comprehensive sex education, access to contraception, and resources for family planning. By promoting alternatives to abortion, such as adoption, and ensuring access to comprehensive reproductive healthcare, we can create a society that embraces life and offers viable options to women facing challenging circumstances. Through my nursing career and beyond, I am committed to promoting the sanctity of all. By providing support, education, and alternatives, I hope to foster a society that values and protects the lives of the most vulnerable. In my future career, I plan to advocate for the value and dignity of every human being, recognizing that every life is a precious gift that deserves our utmost respect and protection.

Stethoscopes, shears, and syringes were packed into the doctor's playset, a well-loved and utilized bag of miracle cures. My little brother was my first patient, and I experienced much joy in clumsily applying disinfectant and bandaids to his scrapes and bruises. After reading an adolescent biology text, I pretended to carefully excise injured tissue from his leg with my plastic scalpel. However, I was not prepared to cure him when he suffered three significant breaks in his arm and foot. During two surgeries, titanium rods and screws were implanted in his tiny body. I was in awe of the doctors and nurses who dutifully utilized the real versions of my playset parts to help repair his bones. After observing my mother soothe and heal her son with her nursing expertise, I slowly witnessed my career choice surfacing before my eyes. As a Nurse Practitioner, my mother has spent the past seventeen years teaching me that multifaceted healthcare includes physical, mental, and spiritual components. She instilled in me a desire to help others. I decided to start my journey in Emergency Medical Services at a local training program for teenagers who want to learn about the medical field. After earning CPR/AED, First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens certifications Covid-19 interrupted my search for internships and further courses. To stay connected with hospitals, I started crocheting hats for babies in local hospitals and lived vicariously through my mother's horror stories of COVID-19 on the front lines with her labor and delivery patients. These stories only strengthened my conviction to become a nurse. Once in-person school resumed, I joined my local firehouse as an EMT, rode in an ambulance, and responded to emergency calls. I also enrolled in a volunteer program in a local hospital's pediatric unit, where I interacted with nurses to support families during their child's illness. These experiences also solidified my passion for working as a nurse at the bedside. Since nursing is a broad field and there are so many opportunities to specialize, I wanted to further explore some different concentrations to make an informed decision in college and beyond. I therefore applied and was admitted to several summer programs. One of these was a career development internship with Kaiser Permanente. The Kaiser Permanente program allowed me to meet with dozens of practicing healthcare professionals, from physical therapists to pediatricians, to ophthalmologists. At this juncture, I realized that I had a gap in my knowledge of psychology, so I had an internship with a Johns Hopkins-backed med-psych company (CHADIS) focusing on pediatric drug addiction and mental health. There, I immersed myself in the practicalities of research, recruited subjects for studies, and created communication tools to better educate patients. I look forward to growing my skillset within Georgetown University School of Nursing's diverse academic community. Building upon my experiences, which have given me a strong desire to learn more, I seek to build a solid foundation in earning my BSN. At this time, I am prepared to take my education to the next level and study nursing science at Georgetown to tangibly assist and heal members of my community and beyond.

Stethoscopes, shears, and syringes were packed into the doctor's playset, a well-loved and utilized bag of miracle cures. My little brother was my first patient, and I experienced much joy in clumsily applying disinfectant and bandaids to his scrapes and bruises. However, I was not prepared to cure him when he suffered three significant breaks in his arm. I was in awe of the doctors and nurses who dutifully utilized the accurate versions of my playset parts to help repair his bones. After observing my mother soothe and heal her son with her nursing expertise, I slowly witnessed my career choice surfacing before my eyes. As a registered nurse and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, my mother has spent the past seventeen years teaching me that multifaceted healthcare includes physical, mental, and spiritual components. She instilled in me a desire to help others. I decided to start my journey in Emergency Medical Services at a local training program for teenagers who want to learn about the medical field. After earning CPR / AED, First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens certifications, COVID-19 interrupted my search for internships and further courses. To stay connected with hospitals, I started crocheting hats for babies in local hospitals and lived vicariously through my mother's horror stories of COVID-19. These stories only strengthened my conviction to become a nurse. Once school resumed, I joined my local firehouse as an EMT, rode in an ambulance, and responded to emergency calls. I also enrolled in a volunteer program in a local hospital's pediatric unit, where I interacted with and supported families experiencing the trauma of having a sick child. These experiences also solidified my passion for working at the bedside. Because nursing is a broad field and there are so many opportunities to specialize, I wanted to further explore some different concentrations to make an informed decision in college and beyond. I therefore applied and was admitted to a couple of summer programs, including a career development internship with Kaiser Permanente. The Kaiser Permanente program allowed me to meet with dozens of practicing professionals, from physical therapists to pediatricians, to ophthalmologists. At this juncture, I realized that I had a gap in my knowledge of psychology, so I secured an internship with a Johns Hopkins-backed med-psych company focusing on pediatric drug addiction and mental health. There, I immersed myself in the practicalities of research, recruited subjects for studies, and created communication tools to educate patients better. At this junction, I am prepared to take my education to the next level and pursue nursing at Georgetown University. Inspired by my mother's work, I hope to continue her legacy of impacting patients' lives positively. Above all, I hope to do justice to my inner child playing pretend with her brother; all she wanted to do was help.

As a society, we often face the problems of the disadvantaged, whether it be homelessness, poverty, or lack of access to education. The question arises, is it necessary for society to change its way of responding to these problems? In my opinion, the answer is a resounding yes. Firstly, the current approach to these problems has proven to be ineffective. For years, society has relied on the government to provide solutions, but the government's efforts have not been enough. Homelessness, for example, has been an issue for decades, yet the number of homeless individuals continues to rise. Something needs to change. One of the main reasons why the government's approach to the problems of the disadvantaged is ineffective is that it is often reactive rather than proactive. The government tends to focus on temporary solutions, such as providing emergency shelters or food banks, rather than addressing the root causes of these issues. This approach is unsustainable and does not solve the problem in the long term. In addition, government programs that aim to help the disadvantaged often come with strict eligibility requirements that prevent many people from accessing the help they need. Secondly, the way we view the disadvantaged needs to change. Those who are struggling are often considered lazy or incompetent, and this mindset only perpetuates the problem. We must shift from blaming individuals to acknowledging the systemic issues contributing to their struggles. Only then can we begin to work towards real solutions. One of the biggest challenges we face in addressing the disadvantaged's problems is our biases and prejudices. Many view poverty, homelessness, and other social issues as personal failings rather than systemic problems. This mindset makes it difficult to address the root causes of these issues and perpetuates a cycle of blame and shame. We must change how we view the disadvantaged and recognize that they are not responsible for their circumstances. Instead, we need to acknowledge the systemic barriers that prevent them from accessing the resources and opportunities they need to thrive. Finally, it is our moral obligation to help those in need. As members of society, we are responsible for ensuring everyone has access to necessities such as food, shelter, and healthcare. It is not enough to ignore or leave the problem to others to solve. The issue of poverty and inequality is not just a matter of economics but also morality. As members of a society that values justice and equality, we have a moral obligation to help less fortunate people. This is not just a matter of charity but a fundamental duty we owe our fellow human beings. When we fail to meet this duty, we not only perpetuate suffering and inequality but also undermine the very foundations of our society. In conclusion, society must change its way of responding to the problems of the disadvantaged. We must shift our focus from ineffective government solutions to more comprehensive and collaborative efforts. We must change our mindset and acknowledge the systemic issues contributing to the problem. And most importantly, we need to recognize our moral obligation to help those in need. Only by working together can we create a society that is truly just and equitable for all.

Stethoscopes, shears, and syringes were packed into the doctor's playset, a well-loved and utilized bag of miracle cures. My little brother was my first patient, and I experienced much joy in clumsily applying disinfectant and bandaids to his scrapes and bruises. However, I was not prepared to cure him when he suffered three significant breaks in his arm. I was in awe of the doctors and nurses who dutifully utilized the accurate versions of my playset parts to help repair his bones. After observing my mother soothe and heal her son with her nursing expertise, I slowly witnessed my career choice surfacing before my eyes. As a registered nurse and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, my mother has spent the past seventeen years teaching me that multifaceted healthcare includes physical, mental, and spiritual components. She instilled in me a desire to help others. I decided to start my journey in Emergency Medical Services at a local training program for teenagers who want to learn about the medical field. After earning CPR / AED, First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens certifications, COVID-19 interrupted my search for internships and further courses. To stay connected with hospitals, I started crocheting hats for babies in local hospitals and lived vicariously through my mother's horror stories of COVID-19. These stories only strengthened my conviction to become a nurse. Once school resumed, I joined my local firehouse as an EMT, rode in an ambulance, and responded to emergency calls. I also enrolled in a volunteer program in a local hospital's pediatric unit, where I interacted with and supported families experiencing the trauma of having a sick child. These experiences also solidified my passion for working at the bedside. Because nursing is a broad field and there are so many opportunities to specialize, I wanted to further explore some different concentrations to make an informed decision in college and beyond. I therefore applied and was admitted to a couple of summer programs, including a career development internship with Kaiser Permanente. The Kaiser Permanente program allowed me to meet with dozens of practicing professionals, from physical therapists to pediatricians, to ophthalmologists. At this juncture, I realized that I had a gap in my knowledge of psychology, so I secured an internship with a Johns Hopkins-backed med-psych company focusing on pediatric drug addiction and mental health. There, I immersed myself in the practicalities of research, recruited subjects for studies, and created communication tools to educate patients better. At this junction, I am prepared to take my education to the next level and pursue nursing at Georgetown University. Above all, I hope to do justice to my inner child playing pretend with her brother; all she wanted to do was help.

Free speech is fundamental for American college students' intellectual and personal development. By allowing students to express their ideas and beliefs freely, free speech promotes diversity of thought and critical thinking, which are crucial for academic and personal growth. In this essay, I will discuss how free speech contributes to American college students' intellectual and emotional development, why it is essential to preserve this fundamental right, and how my field of study or extracurricular activities advance the diversity of thought and critical thinking, holding a free speech on campus. Firstly, free speech is essential for the intellectual development of college students. It allows students to express their ideas and opinions and engage in philosophical discussions with their peers. This exchange of views and opinions helps students to broaden their perspectives and gain new insights into different subjects. Students are better equipped to understand complex issues and solve problems effectively by engaging in critical thinking and analysis. Secondly, free speech is also crucial for the personal development of college students. It allows them to express their individuality and develop their own identity. The free speech promotes self-discovery and self-expression by encouraging students to express their thoughts and feelings. It also helps students become more confident and articulate individuals who can better communicate their ideas and beliefs. Preserving free speech on college campuses is essential because it is a fundamental right that the First Amendment protects. It allows students to freely express their ideas and opinions without fear of censorship or retaliation. By protecting free speech, we ensure that college campuses remain vibrant and intellectually stimulating environments that promote academic and personal growth. As a student in the field of political science, I understand the importance of free speech in promoting diversity of thought and critical thinking. Political science involves the study of different political systems and ideologies, and free speech is essential for engaging in intellectual discourse and debate. Through extracurricular activities, such as student government participation, I have seen firsthand how free speech promotes critical thinking and encourages students to engage in constructive dialogue with their peers. In conclusion, free speech is essential for American college students' intellectual and personal development. It promotes diversity of thought and critical thinking, which are crucial for academic and personal growth. As students, we are responsible for preserving this fundamental right and ensuring our campuses remain vibrant and intellectually stimulating environments promoting intellectual and emotional development.

My dream version of my future self as a nursing student is to become a skilled and compassionate nurse who positively impacts patients' lives through evidence-based practice and holistic care.

Stethoscopes, shears, and syringes were packed into the doctor's playset, a well-loved and utilized bag of miracle cures. My little brother was my first patient, and I experienced much joy in clumsily applying disinfectant and bandaids to his scrapes and bruises. However, I was not prepared to cure him when he suffered three significant breaks in his arm. I was in awe of the doctors and nurses who dutifully utilized the accurate versions of my playset parts to help repair his bones. After observing my mother soothe and heal her son with her nursing expertise, I slowly witnessed my career choice surfacing before my eyes. As a registered nurse and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, my mother has spent the past seventeen years teaching me that multifaceted healthcare includes physical, mental, and spiritual components. She instilled in me a desire to help others. I decided to start my journey in Emergency Medical Services at a local training program for teenagers who want to learn about the medical field. After earning CPR / AED, First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens certifications, COVID-19 interrupted my search for internships and further courses. To stay connected with hospitals, I started crocheting hats for babies in local hospitals and lived vicariously through my mother's horror stories of COVID-19. These stories only strengthened my conviction to become a nurse. Once school resumed, I joined my local firehouse as an EMT, rode in an ambulance, and responded to emergency calls. I also enrolled in a volunteer program in a local hospital's pediatric unit, where I interacted with and supported families experiencing the trauma of having a sick child. These experiences also solidified my passion for working at the bedside. Because nursing is a broad field and there are so many opportunities to specialize, I wanted to further explore some different concentrations to make an informed decision in college and beyond. I therefore applied and was admitted to a couple of summer programs, including a career development internship with Kaiser Permanente. The Kaiser Permanente program allowed me to meet with dozens of practicing professionals, from physical therapists to pediatricians, to ophthalmologists. At this juncture, I realized that I had a gap in my knowledge of psychology, so I secured an internship with a Johns Hopkins-backed med-psych company focusing on pediatric drug addiction and mental health. There, I immersed myself in the practicalities of research, recruited subjects for studies, and created communication tools to educate patients better. At this junction, I am prepared to take my education to the next level and pursue nursing at Georgetown University. I hope to continue my family's legacy by positively impacting my patients' lives. Above all, I hope to do justice to my inner child playing pretend with her brother; all she wanted to do was help.

My favorite song on 1989 was "All You Had To Do Was Stay." From its catchy production to its stellar writing and gutwrenching message, "All You Had To Do Was Stay" is a paragon of pop perfection. "All You Had To Do Was Stay" is a song by Taylor Swift from her fifth studio album, "1989". The song was released as the fifth single from the album on February 24, 2015. Taylor Swift and Max Martin wrote the song. The song has a pop sound with a catchy guitar riff that sets the tone for the rest of the song. The song's lyrics are about a failed relationship and the frustration that comes with it. The song's chorus is mighty as Swift sings, "All you had to do was stay, all you had to do was stay, had me in the palm of your hand, then why'd you have to go and lock me out when I let you in?" The chorus is repeated throughout the song and emphasizes the theme of disappointment and betrayal. In the song's first verse, Swift sings about how she felt in the relationship, how she gave the person everything, and how the relationship was perfect in her eyes. However, in the chorus, Swift questions why the person had to leave when she let them in. This highlights the betrayal and frustration she felt in the relationship. The bridge of the song features a change in tempo and melody which adds to the song's emotional impact. Swift sings, "Here you are now, calling me up, but I don't know what to say. I've been picking up the pieces of the mess you made". These lyrics show that the song's protagonist has moved on and is no longer interested in rekindling the relationship. This part of the song shows how Swift has overcome the pain and moved on from the failed relationship. "All You Had To Do Was Stay" is an excellent example of Taylor Swift's ability to write catchy and emotional pop songs. The song is relatable to anyone who has experienced a failed relationship and the frustration that comes with it. The song's lyrics and melody effectively convey the emotions that come with a failed relationship. In addition to the song's catchy melody and relatable lyrics, the music video for "All You Had To Do Was Stay" is visually stunning. The video shows Swift in a white room surrounded by dancers dressed in black. The contrast between Swift's white outfit and the black outfits of the dancers creates a powerful visual impact. The video's use of shadows and light adds to the song's emotional impact. In conclusion, "All You Had To Do Was Stay" is a standout track on Taylor Swift's "1989" album. The song's catchy melody and relatable lyrics, combined with the emotional impact of the music video, make it a great example of Swift's ability to write and perform powerful pop songs.

As a volunteer in the pediatrics unit of a local hospital, I have witnessed a range of emotions from both the children and their caregivers. However, one particular experience stands out among the rest. On a hot summer day, I met a young girl named Lily. She was undergoing treatment for leukemia but had a bright-eyed demeanor and curly hair. She seemed lonely and scared, and I knew I had to do something to help. After introducing myself, we quickly hit it off, discussing her favorite movies, books, and toys. She even showed me a drawing she had made the day before. I felt a connection between us and knew I wanted to make her day a little bit better. I remembered a game I used to play when I was her age, building blocks, and asked if she wanted to play. Her eyes lit up with excitement, and we quickly began building. As we played, I could see a change in Lily's demeanor. She was smiling and laughing, and for a moment, she forgot about her illness. It was a small act of kindness but it meant the world to her. We continued playing for a while, building and laughing together. I could see her mood improve as we played and talked. She clearly needed someone to talk to and connect with, and I was happy to be there for her. After we finished the game, I tucked her in and said goodnight. As I walked out of the room, I could see the gratitude in her mother's eyes. She thanked me for spending time with her daughter and brightening her day. I couldn't stop thinking about Lily and her family for the rest of the day. Although what I did for her was a small act of kindness, it reminded me of the power of human connection. In a world that can sometimes feel cold and distant, it's important to remember that a small act of kindness can go a long way. Volunteering in the pediatrics unit of a hospital has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. It has taught me the importance of compassion, empathy, and human connection. Most importantly, it showed me how even the smallest act of kindness can significantly impact someone's life. Sometimes, people need someone to talk to and connect with, and being there for them can make all the difference. Volunteering has taught me an important lesson about the power of human connection. While I may have helped Lily that day, she taught me an important lesson I will never forget. I hope to continue this path by pursuing nursing at Georgetown University; I want to keep making a difference in the lives of those around me.

Stethoscopes, shears, and syringes were packed into the doctor's playset, a well-loved and utilized bag of miracle cures. My little brother was my first patient, and I experienced much joy in clumsily applying disinfectant and bandaids to his scrapes and bruises. However, I was not prepared to cure him when he suffered three significant breaks in his arm. I was in awe of the doctors and nurses who dutifully utilized the accurate versions of my playset parts to help repair his bones. After observing my mother soothe and heal her son with her nursing expertise, I slowly witnessed my career choice surfacing before my eyes. As a registered nurse and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, my mother has spent the past seventeen years teaching me that multifaceted healthcare includes physical, mental, and spiritual components. She instilled in me a desire to help others. I decided to start my journey in Emergency Medical Services at a local training program for teenagers who want to learn about the medical field. After earning CPR / AED, First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens certifications, COVID-19 interrupted my search for internships and further courses. To stay connected with hospitals, I started crocheting hats for babies in local hospitals and lived vicariously through my mother's horror stories of COVID-19. These stories only strengthened my conviction to become a nurse. Once school resumed, I joined my local firehouse as an EMT, rode in an ambulance, and responded to emergency calls. I also enrolled in a volunteer program in a local hospital's pediatric unit, where I interacted with and supported families experiencing the trauma of having a sick child. These experiences also solidified my passion for working at the bedside. Because nursing is a broad field with many opportunities to specialize, I wanted to explore some different concentrations further to make an informed decision in college and beyond. I therefore applied and was admitted to a couple of summer programs, including a career development internship with Kaiser Permanente. The Kaiser Permanente program allowed me to meet with dozens of practicing professionals, from physical therapists to pediatricians, to ophthalmologists. At this juncture, I realized that I had a gap in my knowledge of psychology, so I secured an internship with a Johns Hopkins-backed med-psych company focusing on pediatric drug addiction and mental health. There, I immersed myself in the practicalities of research, recruited subjects for studies, and created communication tools to educate patients better. As someone passionate about the multifaceted nature of healthcare, my experiences have led me to a deep appreciation for the importance of mental health. In my journey to become a nurse, I have witnessed firsthand the impact that mental health can have on patients and their families, and I am committed to doing my part to address this critical need. Through my myriad extracurricular experiences, I have gained a comprehensive understanding of the many facets of healthcare, including the importance of mental health. These experiences have inspired me to pursue nursing at the undergraduate level, where I hope to continue learning and growing as a healthcare professional and addressing the critical need for mental health care. Ultimately, my passion for nursing is rooted in my desire to impact my patients' lives positively. By addressing mental health needs and providing holistic care, I can help ensure that every patient I encounter receives the best possible treatment. At this junction, I am prepared to take my education to the next level and pursue nursing at Georgetown University. I hope to continue learning and growing as a healthcare professional and address the critical need for mental health care.

Stethoscopes, shears, and syringes were packed into the doctor's playset, a well-loved and utilized bag of miracle cures. My little brother was my first patient, and I experienced much joy in clumsily applying disinfectant and bandaids to his scrapes and bruises. However, I was not prepared to cure him when he suffered three significant breaks in his arm. I was in awe of the doctors and nurses who dutifully utilized the accurate versions of my playset parts to help repair his bones. After observing my mother soothe and heal her son with her nursing expertise, I slowly witnessed my career choice surfacing before my eyes. As a registered nurse and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, my mother has spent the past seventeen years teaching me that multifaceted healthcare includes physical, mental, and spiritual components. She instilled in me a desire to help others. I decided to start my journey in Emergency Medical Services at a local training program for teenagers who want to learn about the medical field. After earning CPR / AED, First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens certifications, COVID-19 interrupted my search for internships and further courses. To stay connected with hospitals, I started crocheting hats for babies in local hospitals and lived vicariously through my mother's horror stories of COVID-19. These stories only strengthened my conviction to become a nurse. Once school resumed, I joined my local firehouse as an EMT, rode in an ambulance, and responded to emergency calls. I also enrolled in a volunteer program in a local hospital's pediatric unit, where I interacted with and supported families experiencing the trauma of having a sick child. These experiences also solidified my passion for working at the bedside. Because nursing is a broad field with many opportunities to specialize, I wanted to explore some different concentrations further to make an informed decision in college and beyond. I therefore applied and was admitted to a couple of summer programs, including a career development internship with Kaiser Permanente. The Kaiser Permanente program allowed me to meet with dozens of practicing professionals, from physical therapists to pediatricians, to ophthalmologists. At this juncture, I realized that I had a gap in my knowledge of psychology, so I secured an internship with a Johns Hopkins-backed med-psych company focusing on pediatric drug addiction and mental health. There, I immersed myself in the practicalities of research, recruited subjects for studies, and created communication tools to educate patients better. I am uniquely deserving of this award because of my unwavering dedication to the nursing field. I have gained valuable experience through various endeavors. Through these experiences, I have gained a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted nature of healthcare and have developed the skills and empathy needed to provide exceptional care to patients and their families. My "why" for pursuing higher education in nursing is simple: I want to impact my patients' lives positively. By continuing to learn and grow as a healthcare professional, I can provide the highest quality care and help ensure that every patient I encounter receives the best possible treatment. At this junction, I am prepared to take my education to the next level and pursue nursing at Georgetown University. Above all, I hope to do justice to my inner child playing pretend with her brother; all she wanted to do was help.

Stethoscopes, shears, and syringes were packed into the doctor's playset, a well-loved and utilized bag of miracle cures. My little brother was my first patient, and I experienced much joy in clumsily applying disinfectant and bandaids to his scrapes and bruises. However, I was not prepared to cure him when he suffered three significant breaks in his arm. I was in awe of the doctors and nurses who dutifully utilized the accurate versions of my playset parts to help repair his bones. After observing my mother soothe and heal her son with her nursing expertise, I slowly witnessed my career choice surfacing before my eyes. As a registered nurse and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, my mother has spent the past seventeen years teaching me that multifaceted healthcare includes physical, mental, and spiritual components. She instilled in me a desire to help others. I decided to start my journey in Emergency Medical Services at a local training program for teenagers who want to learn about the medical field. After earning CPR / AED, First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens certifications, COVID-19 interrupted my search for internships and further courses. To stay connected with hospitals, I started crocheting hats for babies in local hospitals and lived vicariously through my mother's horror stories of COVID-19. These stories only strengthened my conviction to become a nurse. Once school resumed, I joined my local firehouse as an EMT, rode in an ambulance, and responded to emergency calls. I also enrolled in a volunteer program in a local hospital's pediatric unit, where I interacted with and supported families experiencing the trauma of having a sick child. These experiences also solidified my passion for working at the bedside. Because nursing is a broad field with many opportunities to specialize, I wanted to explore some different concentrations further to make an informed decision in college and beyond. I therefore applied and was admitted to a couple of summer programs, including a career development internship with Kaiser Permanente. The Kaiser Permanente program allowed me to meet with dozens of practicing professionals, from physical therapists to pediatricians, to ophthalmologists. At this juncture, I realized that I had a gap in my knowledge of psychology, so I secured an internship with a Johns Hopkins-backed med-psych company focusing on pediatric drug addiction and mental health. There, I immersed myself in the practicalities of research, recruited subjects for studies, and created communication tools to educate patients better. Through these experiences, I have realized that my true passion lies in pediatric nursing. I am inspired by the resilience and strength of children facing illness or injury, and I believe I have the compassion, empathy, and skills needed to provide them with the best possible care. As I prepare to pursue nursing at Georgetown University, I am excited to continue learning and growing as a healthcare professional. I am committed to working tirelessly to impact the lives of my patients and their families positively, and I am grateful for the opportunity to pursue a career in a field that I am genuinely passionate about.

Stethoscopes, shears, and syringes were packed into the doctor's playset, a well-loved and utilized bag of miracle cures. My little brother was my first patient, and I experienced much joy in clumsily applying disinfectant and bandaids to his scrapes and bruises. However, I was not prepared to cure him when he suffered three significant breaks in his arm. I was in awe of the doctors and nurses who dutifully utilized the accurate versions of my playset parts to help repair his bones. After observing my mother soothe and heal her son with her nursing expertise, I slowly witnessed my career choice surfacing before my eyes. As a registered nurse and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, my mother has spent the past seventeen years teaching me that multifaceted healthcare includes physical, mental, and spiritual components. She instilled in me a desire to help others. I decided to start my journey in Emergency Medical Services at a local training program for teenagers who want to learn about the medical field. After earning CPR / AED, First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens certifications, COVID-19 interrupted my search for internships and further courses. To stay connected with hospitals, I started crocheting hats for babies in local hospitals and lived vicariously through my mother's horror stories of COVID-19. These stories only strengthened my conviction to become a nurse. Once school resumed, I joined my local firehouse as an EMT, rode in an ambulance, and responded to emergency calls. I also enrolled in a volunteer program in a local hospital's pediatric unit, where I interacted with and supported families experiencing the trauma of having a sick child. These experiences also solidified my passion for working at the bedside. Because nursing is a broad field with many opportunities to specialize, I wanted to explore some different concentrations further to make an informed decision in college and beyond. I therefore applied and was admitted to a couple of summer programs, including a career development internship with Kaiser Permanente. The Kaiser Permanente program allowed me to meet with dozens of practicing professionals, from physical therapists to pediatricians, to ophthalmologists. At this juncture, I realized that I had a gap in my knowledge of psychology, so I secured an internship with a Johns Hopkins-backed med-psych company focusing on pediatric drug addiction and mental health. There, I immersed myself in the practicalities of research, recruited subjects for studies, and created communication tools to educate patients better. Despite my passion for nursing, it hasn't always been easy. I suffer from Bipolar II and have had to learn how to cope with my illness. I have found that meditative activities, medication, and therapy have helped me manage my symptoms, allowing me to focus on my goals. I find prioritizing yourself crucial in protecting one's mental well-being; taking time away from responsibilities to decompress, reflect, and relax is massively helpful. At this junction, I am prepared to take my education to the next level and pursue nursing at the undergraduate level at Georgetown University. After undergrad, I plan to become a psychiatric nurse and help those who have suffered like me. My experience with mental illness will allow me to provide compassionate and empathetic care to needy patients. Above all, I hope to do justice to my inner child playing pretend with her brother; all she wanted to do was help.

Stethoscopes, shears, and syringes were packed into the doctor's playset, a well-loved and utilized bag of miracle cures. My little brother was my first patient, and I experienced much joy in clumsily applying disinfectant and bandaids to his scrapes and bruises. However, I was not prepared to cure him when he suffered three significant breaks in his arm. I was in awe of the doctors and nurses who dutifully utilized the accurate versions of my playset parts to help repair his bones. After observing my mother soothe and heal her son with her nursing expertise, I slowly witnessed my career choice surfacing before my eyes. As a registered nurse and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, my mother has spent the past seventeen years teaching me that multifaceted healthcare includes physical, mental, and spiritual components. She instilled in me a desire to help others. I decided to start my journey in Emergency Medical Services at a local training program for teenagers who want to learn about the medical field. After earning CPR / AED, First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens certifications, COVID-19 interrupted my search for internships and further courses. To stay connected with hospitals, I started crocheting hats for babies in local hospitals and lived vicariously through my mother's horror stories of COVID-19. These stories only strengthened my conviction to become a nurse. Once school resumed, I joined my local firehouse as an EMT, rode in an ambulance, and responded to emergency calls. I also enrolled in a volunteer program in a local hospital's pediatric unit, where I interacted with and supported families experiencing the trauma of having a sick child. These experiences also solidified my passion for working at the bedside. Because nursing is a broad field with many opportunities to specialize, I wanted to explore some different concentrations further to make an informed decision in college and beyond. I therefore applied and was admitted to a couple of summer programs, including a career development internship with Kaiser Permanente. The Kaiser Permanente program allowed me to meet with dozens of practicing professionals, from physical therapists to pediatricians, to ophthalmologists. At this juncture, I realized that I had a gap in my knowledge of psychology, so I secured an internship with a Johns Hopkins-backed med-psych company focusing on pediatric drug addiction and mental health. There, I immersed myself in the practicalities of research, recruited subjects for studies, and created communication tools to educate patients better. At this junction, I am prepared to take my education to the next level and pursue nursing at the undergraduate level at Georgetown University. Armed with the knowledge I will learn there, I plan to become a pediatric oncology nurse, helping vulnerable families through the most challenging times. To pursue this goal, I am applying for this scholarship. It will help me achieve my future career goals by providing financial support as I pursue my nursing degree. This scholarship will allow me to focus on my studies and gain the skills and knowledge necessary to become a successful nurse. Above all, this scholarship will help me to do justice to my inner child playing pretend with her brother; all she wanted to do was help.

Stethoscopes, shears, and syringes were packed into the doctor's playset, a well-loved and utilized bag of miracle cures. My little brother was my first patient, and I experienced much joy in clumsily applying disinfectant and bandaids to his scrapes and bruises. However, I was not prepared to cure him when he suffered three significant breaks in his arm. I was in awe of the doctors and nurses who dutifully utilized the accurate versions of my playset parts to help repair his bones. After observing my mother soothe and heal her son with her nursing expertise, I slowly witnessed my career choice surfacing before my eyes. As a registered nurse and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, my mother has spent the past seventeen years teaching me that multifaceted healthcare includes physical, mental, and spiritual components. She instilled in me a desire to help others. I decided to start my journey in Emergency Medical Services at a local training program for teenagers who want to learn about the medical field. After earning CPR / AED, First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens certifications, COVID-19 interrupted my search for internships and further courses. To stay connected with hospitals, I started crocheting hats for babies in local hospitals and lived vicariously through my mother's horror stories of COVID-19. These stories only strengthened my conviction to become a nurse. Once school resumed, I joined my local firehouse as an EMT, rode in an ambulance, and responded to emergency calls. I also enrolled in a volunteer program in a local hospital's pediatric unit, where I interacted with and supported families experiencing the trauma of having a sick child. These experiences also solidified my passion for working at the bedside. Because nursing is a broad field with many opportunities to specialize, I wanted to explore some different concentrations further to make an informed decision in college and beyond. I therefore applied and was admitted to a couple of summer programs, including a career development internship with Kaiser Permanente. The Kaiser Permanente program allowed me to meet with dozens of practicing professionals, from physical therapists to pediatricians, to ophthalmologists. At this juncture, I realized that I had a gap in my knowledge of psychology, so I secured an internship with a Johns Hopkins-backed med-psych company focusing on pediatric drug addiction and mental health. There, I immersed myself in the practicalities of research, recruited subjects for studies, and created communication tools to educate patients better. At this junction, I am prepared to take my education to the next level and pursue nursing at the undergraduate level at Georgetown University. This scholarship will help me achieve my career goals by providing financial support as I pursue my nursing degree. It will allow me to focus on my studies and gain the skills and knowledge necessary to become a successful nurse. Above all, this scholarship will help me do justice to my inner child playing pretend with her brother; all she wanted to do was help.

Public relations (PR) has a significant influence on shaping public narratives. Through PR, organizations and individuals communicate with the public and influence their opinions and behaviors. In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of diverse voices in PR and their impact on shaping public narratives. In this essay, I will discuss the impact that diverse voices in public relations can have on shaping public records. Diversity in PR ensures that diverse perspectives are represented in the developed communication strategies and messaging. This means considering the views and experiences of people from different backgrounds, including those of other races, ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, religions, and abilities. When diverse voices are included in PR, it can positively impact shaping public narratives. Diversity can help ensure that messaging is more inclusive and representative of the diverse audiences organizations are trying to reach. This can lead to greater engagement and trust among these audiences, which can help build stronger relationships. For example, if an organization is trying to reach out to a diverse group of consumers, it is essential to have messaging that reflects their experiences and perspectives. By including diverse voices in messaging development, organizations can ensure that they reach out to their target audience effectively and inclusively. Diverse voices in PR can help challenge stereotypes and biases in the public narrative. By bringing in different perspectives and experiences, PR professionals can help shed light on issues that may have been overlooked or marginalized. This helps create a more nuanced and accurate understanding of complex issues and leads to more productive conversations and outcomes. For example, if an organization is trying to address an issue related to race or ethnicity, having diverse voices in the development of messaging can help challenge stereotypes and biases in the public narrative. This can lead to a more productive conversation and a more accurate understanding of the issue. Diverse voices in PR can help to promote social justice and equity. PR can help amplify marginalized communities' voices and encourage greater understanding and empathy by ensuring that all voices are heard and represented. This can help to build a more just and equitable society for all. For example, if an organization is working on a social justice issue, having diverse voices in the development of messaging can help ensure that the messaging reflects the experiences and perspectives of the marginalized communities the organization is trying to serve. By doing so, the organization can help to promote greater understanding and empathy among the broader public. The power of diverse voices in public relations cannot be overstated. By including various perspectives and experiences in PR strategies and messaging, organizations and individuals can help to shape more inclusive, accurate, and equitable public narratives. This is not only good for business but also suitable for society as a whole. By challenging stereotypes and biases, promoting social justice and equity, and ensuring that messaging is more inclusive and representative of diverse audiences, organizations can help to create a more just and equitable world.

Stethoscopes, shears, and syringes were packed into the doctor's playset, a well-loved and utilized bag of miracle cures. My little brother was my first patient, and I experienced much joy in clumsily applying disinfectant and bandaids to his scrapes and bruises. However, I was not prepared to cure him when he suffered three significant breaks in his arm. I was in awe of the doctors and nurses who dutifully utilized the accurate versions of my playset parts to help repair his bones. After observing my mother soothe and heal her son with her nursing expertise, I slowly witnessed my career choice surfacing before my eyes. As a registered nurse and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, my mother has spent the past seventeen years teaching me that multifaceted healthcare includes physical, mental, and spiritual components. She instilled in me a desire to help others. I decided to start my journey in Emergency Medical Services at a local training program for teenagers who want to learn about the medical field. After earning CPR / AED, First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens certifications, COVID-19 interrupted my search for internships and further courses. To stay connected with hospitals, I started crocheting hats for babies in local hospitals and lived vicariously through my mother's horror stories of COVID-19. These stories only strengthened my conviction to become a nurse. Once school resumed, I joined my local firehouse as an EMT, rode in an ambulance, and responded to emergency calls. I also enrolled in a volunteer program in a local hospital's pediatric unit, where I interacted with and supported families experiencing the trauma of having a sick child. These experiences also solidified my passion for working at the bedside. Because nursing is a broad field and there are so many opportunities to specialize, I wanted to further explore some different concentrations to make an informed decision in college and beyond. I therefore applied and was admitted to a couple of summer programs, including a career development internship with Kaiser Permanente. The Kaiser Permanente program allowed me to meet with dozens of practicing professionals, from physical therapists to pediatricians, to ophthalmologists. At this juncture, I realized that I had a gap in my knowledge of psychology, so I secured an internship with a Johns Hopkins-backed med-psych company focusing on pediatric drug addiction and mental health. There, I immersed myself in the practicalities of research, recruited subjects for studies, and created communication tools to educate patients better. At this junction, I am prepared to take my education to the next level and pursue nursing at the undergraduate level at Georgetown University. After school, I hope to work in a pediatric oncology unit, helping our most vulnerable patients and families through the hardest times in their lives. I intend to continue my education, earning a Nurse Practitioner degree and becoming a healthcare provider. Above all, I hope to do justice to my inner child playing pretend with her brother; all she wanted to do was help.

Stethoscopes, shears, and syringes were packed into the doctor's playset, a well-loved and utilized bag of miracle cures. My little brother was my first patient, and I experienced much joy in clumsily applying disinfectant and bandaids to his scrapes and bruises. However, I was not prepared to cure him when he suffered three significant breaks in his arm. I was in awe of the doctors and nurses who dutifully utilized the accurate versions of my playset parts to help repair his bones. After observing my mother soothe and heal her son with her nursing expertise, I slowly witnessed my career choice surfacing before my eyes. As a registered nurse and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, my mother has spent the past seventeen years teaching me that multifaceted healthcare includes physical, mental, and spiritual components. She instilled in me a desire to help others. I decided to start my journey in Emergency Medical Services at a local training program for teenagers who want to learn about the medical field. After earning CPR / AED, First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens certifications, COVID-19 interrupted my search for internships and further courses. To stay connected with hospitals, I started crocheting hats for babies in local hospitals and lived vicariously through my mother's horror stories of COVID-19. These stories only strengthened my conviction to become a nurse. Once school resumed, I joined my local firehouse as an EMT, rode in an ambulance, and responded to emergency calls. I also enrolled in a volunteer program in a local hospital's pediatric unit, where I interacted with and supported families experiencing the trauma of having a sick child. These experiences also solidified my passion for working at the bedside. Because nursing is a broad field and there are so many opportunities to specialize, I wanted to further explore some different concentrations to make an informed decision in college and beyond. I therefore applied and was admitted to a couple of summer programs, including a career development internship with Kaiser Permanente. The Kaiser Permanente program allowed me to meet with dozens of practicing professionals, from physical therapists to pediatricians, to ophthalmologists. At this juncture, I realized that I had a gap in my knowledge of psychology, so I secured an internship with a Johns Hopkins-backed med-psych company focusing on pediatric drug addiction and mental health. There, I immersed myself in the practicalities of research, recruited subjects for studies, and created communication tools to educate patients better. At this junction, I am prepared to take my education to the next level and pursue nursing at the undergraduate level at Georgetown University. After school, I hope to work in a pediatric oncology unit, helping our most vulnerable patients and families through the hardest times in their lives. I intend to continue my education, earning a Nurse Practitioner degree and becoming a healthcare provider. Above all, I hope to do justice to my inner child playing pretend with her brother; all she wanted to do was help.

Stethoscopes, shears, and syringes were packed into the doctor's playset, a well-loved and utilized bag of miracle cures. My little brother was my first patient, and I experienced much joy in clumsily applying disinfectant and bandaids to his scrapes and bruises. However, I was not prepared to cure him when he suffered three significant breaks in his arm. I was in awe of the doctors and nurses who dutifully utilized the accurate versions of my playset parts to help repair his bones. After observing my mother soothe and heal her son with her nursing expertise, I slowly witnessed my career choice surfacing before my eyes. As a registered nurse and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, my mother has spent the past seventeen years teaching me that multifaceted healthcare includes physical, mental, and spiritual components. She instilled in me a desire to help others. I decided to start my journey in Emergency Medical Services at a local training program for teenagers who want to learn about the medical field. After earning CPR / AED, First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens certifications, COVID-19 interrupted my search for internships and further courses. To stay connected with hospitals, I started crocheting hats for babies in local hospitals and lived vicariously through my mother's horror stories of COVID-19. These stories only strengthened my conviction to become a nurse. Once school resumed, I joined my local firehouse as an EMT, rode in an ambulance, and responded to emergency calls. I also enrolled in a volunteer program in a local hospital's pediatric unit, where I interacted with and supported families experiencing the trauma of having a sick child. These experiences also solidified my passion for working at the bedside. Because nursing is a broad field and there are so many opportunities to specialize, I wanted to further explore some different concentrations to make an informed decision in college and beyond. I therefore applied and was admitted to a couple of summer programs, including a career development internship with Kaiser Permanente. The Kaiser Permanente program allowed me to meet with dozens of practicing professionals, from physical therapists to pediatricians, to ophthalmologists. At this juncture, I realized that I had a gap in my knowledge of psychology, so I secured an internship with a Johns Hopkins-backed med-psych company focusing on pediatric drug addiction and mental health. There, I immersed myself in the practicalities of research, recruited subjects for studies, and created communication tools to educate patients better. At this junction, I am prepared to take my education to the next level and pursue nursing at the undergraduate level at Georgetown University. After school, I hope to work in a pediatric oncology unit, helping our most vulnerable patients and families through the hardest times in their lives. I intend to continue my education, earning a Nurse Practitioner degree and becoming a healthcare provider. Above all, I hope to do justice to my inner child playing pretend with her brother; all she wanted to do was help.

Stethoscopes, shears, and syringes were packed into the doctor's playset, a well-loved and utilized bag of miracle cures. My little brother was my first patient, and I experienced much joy in clumsily applying disinfectant and bandaids to his scrapes and bruises. However, I was not prepared to cure him when he suffered three significant breaks in his arm. I was in awe of the doctors and nurses who dutifully utilized the accurate versions of my playset parts to help repair his bones. After observing my mother soothe and heal her son with her nursing expertise, I slowly witnessed my career choice surfacing before my eyes. As a registered nurse and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, my mother has spent the past seventeen years teaching me that multifaceted healthcare includes physical, mental, and spiritual components. She instilled in me a desire to help others. I decided to start my journey in Emergency Medical Services at a local training program for teenagers who want to learn about the medical field. After earning CPR / AED, First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens certifications, COVID-19 interrupted my search for internships and further courses. To stay connected with hospitals, I started crocheting hats for babies in local hospitals and lived vicariously through my mother's horror stories of COVID-19. These stories only strengthened my conviction to become a nurse. Once school resumed, I joined my local firehouse as an EMT, rode in an ambulance, and responded to emergency calls. I also enrolled in a volunteer program in a local hospital's pediatric unit, where I interacted with and supported families experiencing the trauma of having a sick child. These experiences also solidified my passion for working at the bedside. Because nursing is a broad field and there are so many opportunities to specialize, I wanted to further explore some different concentrations to make an informed decision in college and beyond. I therefore applied and was admitted to a couple of summer programs, including a career development internship with Kaiser Permanente. The Kaiser Permanente program allowed me to meet with dozens of practicing professionals, from physical therapists to pediatricians, to ophthalmologists. At this juncture, I realized that I had a gap in my knowledge of psychology, so I secured an internship with a Johns Hopkins-backed med-psych company focusing on pediatric drug addiction and mental health. There, I immersed myself in the practicalities of research, recruited subjects for studies, and created communication tools to educate patients better. At this junction, I am prepared to take my education to the next level and pursue nursing at the undergraduate level at Georgetown University. After school, I hope to work in a pediatric oncology unit, helping our most vulnerable patients and families through the hardest times in their lives. I intend to continue my education, earning a Nurse Practitioner degree and becoming a healthcare provider. Above all, I hope to do justice to my inner child playing pretend with her brother; all she wanted to do was help.

Living with bipolar disorder has been a life-changing experience for me. It has profoundly influenced my beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations. Bipolar disorder has changed my beliefs about mental health care. Through my struggles, I have learned to appreciate the importance of mental health care and its impact on one's life. I have come to understand that mental health care is just as critical as physical health care and that there should be no stigma attached to seeking help for mental health issues. Bipolar disorder has also changed my relationships. I have learned to value healthy relationships and their role in one's mental health. I have come to appreciate the support of my family and friends, and I have learned to communicate my needs and concerns effectively. I have also known that it is essential to surround myself with people who are understanding and empathetic towards mental health issues. My experience with bipolar disorder has inspired me to pursue a career in nursing, specifically in psychiatric nursing. My personal experience with mental illness will help me better understand and empathize with my patients. As a nurse, I want to provide compassionate care and support to those struggling with mental health issues, and I want to be an advocate for my patients. Unfortunately, I have also had negative experiences with the inpatient mental health industry. During one hospitalization, I was treated poorly by some of the staff, and it left me feeling isolated and unsupported. This experience had a significant impact on me, and it made me realize that many issues with the mental health care system need to be addressed. I believe that people struggling with mental health issues deserve to be treated with compassion and respect, and it is unacceptable for them to be mistreated or stigmatized. In my future career as a psychiatric nurse, I plan to advocate for better mental health care and work towards addressing the issues that I have experienced firsthand. I want to be a voice for those struggling with mental health issues and work towards creating a more supportive and inclusive environment for them. I plan to provide patient-centered care focused on the individual's needs and preferences. I want to work towards creating a supportive and inclusive environment for my patients, where they feel safe and heard. I also plan to advocate for better training and education for mental health care providers to understand their patients' needs better and provide more effective care. Living with bipolar disorder has significantly impacted my beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations. It has inspired me to pursue a career in psychiatric nursing, where I hope to positively impact the lives of those struggling with mental health issues. While I have had negative experiences with the mental health care system, I am committed to improving it and providing better care for those who need it most.

Mathematics has always been a fascinating subject for me since I was a child. The first time I fell in love with math was in the third grade when my teacher introduced me to multiplication. The idea of multiplying numbers and generating a more significant number was mind-blowing. From then on, I was hooked. As I progressed through school, my love for math continued to grow. I enjoyed solving challenging problems and unraveling complex mathematical concepts. I found that math was about numbers, logic, and critical thinking. I loved how math-challenged me to think creatively and approach problems from different angles. However, it wasn't until I started tutoring younger students in math that I truly realized how much I loved the subject. Seeing the excitement on a student's face when they finally understand a concept or solve a complex problem is incredible. I remember one student in particular who was struggling with long division. We worked together for weeks, and finally, one day, it all clicked for her. Her face lit up with joy, and I knew I had helped her discover a love for math. Tutoring younger students has taught me that math is not just a subject to be memorized or passed but rather a skill that can be developed and a passion that can be ignited. It has also taught me the importance of patience, empathy, and effective communication when teaching math. I love math because it challenges, excites me, and allows me to help others. It has been a constant source of joy and fulfillment, and I hope to continue sharing that love with others. Whether through tutoring or simply talking about math with friends, I believe everyone can find something to love about this fascinating subject.

Stethoscopes, shears, and syringes were packed into the doctor's playset, a well-loved and utilized bag of miracle cures. My little brother was my first patient, and I experienced much joy in clumsily applying disinfectant and bandaids to his scrapes and bruises. However, I was not prepared to cure him when he suffered three significant breaks in his arm. I was in awe of the doctors and nurses who dutifully utilized the accurate versions of my playset parts to help repair his bones. After observing my mother soothe and heal her son with her nursing expertise, I slowly witnessed my career choice surfacing before my eyes. As a registered nurse and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, my mother has spent the past seventeen years teaching me that multifaceted healthcare includes physical, mental, and spiritual components. She instilled in me a desire to help others. I decided to start my journey in Emergency Medical Services at a local training program for teenagers who want to learn about the medical field. After earning CPR / AED, First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens certifications, COVID-19 interrupted my search for internships and further courses. To stay connected with hospitals, I started crocheting hats for babies in local hospitals and lived vicariously through my mother's horror stories of COVID-19. These stories only strengthened my conviction to become a nurse. Once school resumed, I joined my local firehouse as an EMT, rode in an ambulance, and responded to emergency calls. I also enrolled in a volunteer program in a local hospital's pediatric unit, where I interacted with and supported families experiencing the trauma of having a sick child. These experiences also solidified my passion for working at the bedside. Because nursing is a broad field with many opportunities to specialize, I wanted to explore some different concentrations further to make an informed decision in college and beyond. I therefore applied and was admitted to a couple of summer programs, including a career development internship with Kaiser Permanente. The Kaiser Permanente program allowed me to meet with dozens of practicing professionals, from physical therapists to pediatricians, to ophthalmologists. At this juncture, I realized that I had a gap in my knowledge of psychology, so I secured an internship with a Johns Hopkins-backed med-psych company focusing on pediatric drug addiction and mental health. There, I immersed myself in the practicalities of research, recruited subjects for studies, and created communication tools to educate patients better. As I pursue nursing in college and beyond, I plan to specialize in oncological research in my search for a cure for cancer. My desire to help others and my passion for healthcare has only grown as I have gained more knowledge and experience in the field. I am excited to see where my career will take me and how I can positively impact those in need. At this junction, I am prepared to take my education to the next level and pursue nursing at the undergraduate level. Above all, I hope to do justice to my inner child playing pretend with her brother; all she wanted to do was help.

Stethoscopes, shears, and syringes were packed into the doctor's playset, a well-loved and utilized bag of miracle cures. My little brother was my first patient, and I experienced much joy in clumsily applying disinfectant and bandaids to his scrapes and bruises. However, I was not prepared to cure him when he suffered three significant breaks in his arm. I was in awe of the doctors and nurses who dutifully utilized the accurate versions of my playset parts to help repair his bones. After observing my mother soothe and heal her son with her nursing expertise, I slowly witnessed my career choice surfacing before my eyes. As a registered nurse and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, my mother has spent the past seventeen years teaching me that multifaceted healthcare includes physical, mental, and spiritual components. She instilled in me a desire to help others. I decided to start my journey in Emergency Medical Services at a local training program for teenagers who want to learn about the medical field. After earning CPR / AED, First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens certifications, COVID-19 interrupted my search for internships and further courses. To stay connected with hospitals, I started crocheting hats for babies in local hospitals and lived vicariously through my mother's horror stories of COVID-19. These stories only strengthened my conviction to become a nurse. Once school resumed, I joined my local firehouse as an EMT, rode in an ambulance, and responded to emergency calls. I also enrolled in a volunteer program in a local hospital's pediatric unit, where I interacted with and supported families experiencing the trauma of having a sick child. These experiences also solidified my passion for working at the bedside. Because nursing is a broad field and there are so many opportunities to specialize, I wanted to further explore some different concentrations to make an informed decision in college and beyond. I therefore applied and was admitted to a couple of summer programs, including a career development internship with Kaiser Permanente. The Kaiser Permanente program allowed me to meet with dozens of practicing professionals, from physical therapists to pediatricians, to ophthalmologists. At this juncture, I realized that I had a gap in my knowledge of psychology, so I secured an internship with a Johns Hopkins-backed med-psych company focusing on pediatric drug addiction and mental health. There, I immersed myself in the practicalities of research, recruited subjects for studies, and created communication tools to educate patients better. At this junction, I am prepared to take my education to the next level and pursue nursing at Georgetown University. Above all, I hope to do justice to my inner child playing pretend with her brother; all she wanted to do was help.

Growing up, I was always conscious of my weight and appearance. I was never overweight but always felt I needed to be thinner. This led me down a dangerous path of developing anorexia nervosa, an eating disorder characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight and a distorted body image. At my lowest point, I barely ate and had lost significant weight. I was constantly fatigued, had trouble concentrating, and my hair was falling out. It was not until my family and friends intervened that I realized the severity of my situation and sought professional help. Recovery from anorexia is a long and challenging journey, but with the help of therapy and support from loved ones, I overcame this disorder. One of my biggest challenges during my recovery was learning to love and nourish my body. For so long, I had punished my body by depriving it of essential nutrients and over-exercising. It took time to understand that my body deserved to be cared for and that food was not the enemy. I began to change my lifestyle to promote a healthier relationship with food and my body. I started by incorporating more whole foods like fruits, vegetables, and lean protein sources. I also began challenging myself to try new foods and avoid indulging in treats occasionally. I learned that moderation was crucial and that depriving myself of certain foods only led to binging later on. In addition to my diet, I also started to incorporate exercise into my routine. However, instead of using exercise to burn calories or lose weight, I started to view it as a way to strengthen and energize my body. I began to enjoy activities such as yoga, hiking, and weightlifting, which helped me to feel more confident and empowered. Today, I am proud to say that I am physically and mentally in a much healthier place. I have learned to appreciate my body for all that it does for me and to treat it with kindness and respect. While my journey to recovery was not easy, it has taught me valuable lessons about self-love and the importance of nourishing the body and mind. My health journey has been filled with challenges and triumphs. Recovery from anorexia nervosa has taught me the importance of self-care and self-love. By changing my lifestyle, such as incorporating whole foods into my diet and viewing exercise as a way to strengthen my body, I have overcome this disorder and lived a happier, healthier life. I hope my story inspires others struggling with similar issues to seek help and know that recovery is possible.

As a girl with Bipolar II, I understand the importance of mental health. For too long, mental health was a taboo subject swept under the rug, and I suffered in silence. It took me years to realize that my mental health was as important as my physical health. It was only when I hit rock bottom and was diagnosed with Bipolar that I realized how much my mental health mattered. Bipolar II is a mental illness that is characterized by severe mood swings. It meant that I would experience periods of depression, followed by hypomania. During my depressive episodes, I would find it hard to get out of bed, lose interest in everything I loved, and feel a pervasive sadness that was hard to shake off. On the other hand, during my hypomanic episodes, I would feel elated, energetic, and productive. However, these episodes would be followed by a crash, and I would find myself spiraling into depression once again. Bipolar had a significant impact on my life. It affected my relationships, work, and overall quality of life. I often had to take time off from work when I was in a depressive episode, and my social life suffered because I would cancel plans at the last minute. I felt like I was living in a constant state of chaos, and it was not until I sought help that things started to change. Maintaining my mental wellness is an ongoing process requiring much work. The first step for me was to seek help. I started seeing a therapist who specialized in Bipolar II, and she helped me understand my illness better. She taught me techniques to manage my mood swings, such as mindfulness meditation and cognitive-behavioral therapy. I also started taking medication, which was a game-changer for me. It helped stabilize my moods and reduced the frequency of my episodes. In addition to therapy and medication, I also make sure that I prioritize self-care. This means that I make time for the things that bring me joy, such as spending time with loved ones, practicing yoga, and reading. I have also learned to listen to my body and my mind. When I feel like I am getting overwhelmed, I take a step back and give myself some space. This could mean canceling plans, taking a mental health day from work, or simply taking a long walk in nature. Taking care of my mental health has improved my quality of life and helped me become more productive, focused, and present in my relationships. I no longer feel like I am living in a state of chaos, and I have learned to embrace the ups and downs of life. I am grateful for my journey and hope that by sharing my story, I can help others struggling with mental health. Mental health is just as important as physical health. As someone living with Bipolar, I understand how mental illness can impact one's life. However, seeking help and maintaining mental wellness can make a significant difference. Whether it is therapy, medication, or self-care, there are many ways to care for one's mental health. It is up to each of us to prioritize our mental wellness and take the necessary steps to live a fulfilling and happy life.

Mental illness is a topic that is often stigmatized and misunderstood by society, but for me, it has been a defining aspect of my life. As a girl with Bipolar II, I have experienced the highs and lows of mental illness firsthand. It has affected every aspect of my life, from my relationships to my education, and has presented me with unique challenges that have shaped who I am today. Growing up, I struggled with intense sadness, anxiety, and irritability that I could not explain. It was not until high school that I was finally diagnosed with Bipolar II, a mood disorder characterized by periods of depression and hypomania. My diagnosis was a relief, as it gave me a name for what I was experiencing and allowed me to seek treatment. However, it also made me acutely aware of mental illness's stigma. One of the most significant experiences that inspired me to pursue a career in nursing was my time in the hospital with a psych nurse. I struggled with a severe depressive episode, and the nurse assigned to my care was incredibly kind and compassionate. She took the time to listen to me and understand my experiences and helped me feel less alone. Her dedication to her patients and her commitment to improving their lives inspired me to pursue a career in nursing and help others in the same way. As I prepare to major in nursing and work in inpatient psychiatric facilities, I am committed to implementing change for those affected by mental illness. One of the most significant ways I plan to do this is by advocating for increased access to mental health care. Mental illness can be isolating and overwhelming, and it is often difficult for those struggling to find the help they need. As a nurse, I hope to work with patients to navigate the mental health care system and ensure they receive the support and treatment they need. I also plan to work with mental health organizations to advocate for policies that increase access to care, such as expanding insurance coverage for mental health services. Another way I plan to implement change is by promoting awareness and reducing the stigma surrounding mental illness. I want to educate others about the realities of mental illness and work to break down the misconceptions that prevent people from seeking help. By sharing my experiences with mental illness, I hope to inspire others to speak out and seek the support they need. Finally, I plan to support research and innovation in mental health. There is still so much we do not know about mental illness, and research is essential to improving our understanding and developing more effective treatments. I hope to work with mental health organizations to support research initiatives and advocate for increased funding for mental health research. Mental illness has affected me profoundly and given me a sense of purpose and a desire to help others. With my experiences and commitment to advocacy, education, and research, I believe I can make a difference in the lives of those struggling with mental health.

Mathematics is often considered intimidating and challenging, but it has been a source of joy, curiosity, and personal growth in my life. From a young age, I was drawn to math because of its universal language and how it can explain the world around us. As I progressed through my academic journey, I came to appreciate the importance of math in every aspect of our lives, from basic budgeting to complex scientific research. My love for math began in elementary school, where I was fascinated by numbers and patterns. My parents encouraged my interest by buying me math workbooks and challenging me with puzzles, further fueling my passion. In middle school, I was fortunate to have a teacher who made math fun and engaging. She taught us to approach creatively and logically, showing and showing us how math could be applied in real-life situations. This teacher's influence shaped my perspective on mathematics and helped me develop a lifelong appreciation for the subject. However, my journey with math could have been smoother sailing. In high school, I struggled with advanced topics such as frustrated and discouraged feeling frustrated and discouraged. This is where tutoring came in. My high school offered free math tutoring after school, and I decided to take advantage of it. My tutor was patient, knowledgeable, and supportive. She helped me break down complex concepts into manageable parts and gave me the confidence to tackle complex problems. With her help, I passed my math classes and gained a deeper understanding and appreciation of the subject. My experience with math tutoring taught me the importance of seeking help when we need it and the value of perseverance. It also reinforced my belief that anyone can learn math with the proper support and mindset. This is why I am passionate about sharing my love for math with others and helping them overcome any obstacles they may face. Math is crucial for personal and societal growth. It equips us with problem-solving skills, logical reasoning, and critical thinking, essential in any career or academic pursuit. Math also plays a vital role in fields such as science, technology, engineering, and finance, where it is used to make groundbreaking discoveries, solve complex problems, and drive innovation. Mathematics is important but also fascinating and rewarding. It has shaped me, taught me valuable life lessons, and given me the tools to succeed in my academic and professional endeavors. I am grateful for the opportunities I have had to learn and grow with math, and I am excited to continue exploring its wonders in the future.

Stethoscopes, shears, and syringes were packed into the doctor's playset, a well-loved and utilized bag of miracle cures. My little brother was my first patient, and I experienced much joy in clumsily applying disinfectant and bandaids to his scrapes and bruises. However, I was not prepared to cure him when he suffered three significant breaks in his arm. I was in awe of the doctors and nurses who dutifully utilized the accurate versions of my playset parts to help repair his bones. After observing my mother soothe and heal her son with her nursing expertise, I slowly witnessed my career choice surfacing before my eyes. As a registered nurse and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, my mother has spent the past seventeen years teaching me that multifaceted healthcare includes physical, mental, and spiritual components. She instilled in me a desire to help others. I decided to start my journey in Emergency Medical Services at a local training program for teenagers who want to learn about the medical field. After earning CPR / AED, First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens certifications, COVID-19 interrupted my search for internships and further courses. To stay connected with hospitals, I started crocheting hats for babies in local hospitals and lived vicariously through my mother's horror stories of COVID-19. These stories only strengthened my conviction to become a nurse. Once school resumed, I joined my local firehouse as an EMT, rode in an ambulance, and responded to emergency calls. I also enrolled in a volunteer program in a local hospital's pediatric unit, where I interacted with and supported families experiencing the trauma of having a sick child. These experiences also solidified my passion for working at the bedside. Because nursing is a broad field with many opportunities to specialize, I wanted to explore some different concentrations further to make an informed decision in college and beyond. I therefore applied and was admitted to a couple of summer programs, including a career development internship with Kaiser Permanente. The Kaiser Permanente program allowed me to meet with dozens of practicing professionals, from physical therapists to pediatricians, to ophthalmologists. At this juncture, I realized that I had a gap in my knowledge of psychology, so I secured an internship with a Johns Hopkins-backed med-psych company focusing on pediatric drug addiction and mental health. There, I immersed myself in the practicalities of research, recruited subjects for studies, and created communication tools to educate patients better. At this junction, I am prepared to take my education to the next level and pursue nursing at the undergraduate level. By using my degree and working at the bedside, I hope to improve health outcomes, advocate for patients, educate the public, and more. Above all, I hope to do justice to my inner child playing pretend with her brother; all she wanted to do was help.

Stethoscopes, shears, and syringes were packed into the doctor's playset, a well-loved and utilized bag of miracle cures. My little brother was my first patient, and I experienced much joy in clumsily applying disinfectant and bandaids to his scrapes and bruises. However, I was not prepared to cure him when he suffered three significant breaks in his arm. I was in awe of the doctors and nurses who dutifully utilized the accurate versions of my playset parts to help repair his bones. After observing my mother soothe and heal her son with her nursing expertise, I slowly witnessed my career choice surfacing before my eyes. As a registered nurse and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, my mother has spent the past seventeen years teaching me that multifaceted healthcare includes physical, mental, and spiritual components. She instilled in me a desire to help others. I decided to start my journey in Emergency Medical Services at a local training program for teenagers who want to learn about the medical field. After earning CPR / AED, First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens certifications, COVID-19 interrupted my search for internships and further courses. To stay connected with hospitals, I started crocheting hats for babies in local hospitals and lived vicariously through my mother's horror stories of COVID-19. These stories only strengthened my conviction to become a nurse. Once school resumed, I joined my local firehouse as an EMT, rode in an ambulance, and responded to emergency calls. I also enrolled in a volunteer program in a local hospital's pediatric unit, where I interacted with and supported families experiencing the trauma of having a sick child. These experiences also solidified my passion for working at the bedside. Because nursing is a broad field with many opportunities to specialize, I wanted to explore some different concentrations further to make an informed decision in college and beyond. I therefore applied and was admitted to a couple of summer programs, including a career development internship with Kaiser Permanente. The Kaiser Permanente program allowed me to meet with dozens of practicing professionals, from physical therapists to pediatricians, to ophthalmologists. At this juncture, I realized that I had a gap in my knowledge of psychology, so I secured an internship with a Johns Hopkins-backed med-psych company focusing on pediatric drug addiction and mental health. There, I immersed myself in the practicalities of research, recruited subjects for studies, and created communication tools to educate patients better. At this junction, I am prepared to take my education to the next level and pursue nursing at the undergraduate level. By using my degree and working at the bedside, I hope to improve health outcomes, advocate for patients, educate the public, and more. Above all, I hope to do justice to my inner child playing pretend with her brother; all she wanted to do was help.

Stethoscopes, shears, and syringes were packed into the doctor's playset, a well-loved and utilized bag of miracle cures. My little brother was my first patient, and I experienced much joy in clumsily applying disinfectant and bandaids to his scrapes and bruises. However, I was not prepared to cure him when he suffered three significant breaks in his arm. I was in awe of the doctors and nurses who dutifully utilized the accurate versions of my playset parts to help repair his bones. After observing my mother soothe and heal her son with her nursing expertise, I slowly witnessed my career choice surfacing before my eyes. As a registered nurse and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, my mother has spent the past seventeen years teaching me that multifaceted healthcare includes physical, mental, and spiritual components. She instilled in me a desire to help others. I decided to start my journey in Emergency Medical Services at a local training program for teenagers who want to learn about the medical field. After earning CPR / AED, First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens certifications, COVID-19 interrupted my search for internships and further courses. To stay connected with hospitals, I started crocheting hats for babies in local hospitals and lived vicariously through my mother's horror stories of COVID-19. These stories only strengthened my conviction to become a nurse. Once school resumed, I joined my local firehouse as an EMT, rode in an ambulance, and responded to emergency calls. I also enrolled in a volunteer program in a local hospital's pediatric unit, where I interacted with and supported families experiencing the trauma of having a sick child. These experiences also solidified my passion for working at the bedside. Because nursing is a broad field with many opportunities to specialize, I wanted to explore some different concentrations further to make an informed decision in college and beyond. I therefore applied and was admitted to a couple of summer programs, including a career development internship with Kaiser Permanente. The Kaiser Permanente program allowed me to meet with dozens of practicing professionals, from physical therapists to pediatricians, to ophthalmologists. At this juncture, I realized that I had a gap in my knowledge of psychology, so I secured an internship with a Johns Hopkins-backed med-psych company focusing on pediatric drug addiction and mental health. There, I immersed myself in the practicalities of research, recruited subjects for studies, and created communication tools to educate patients better. At this junction, I am prepared to take my education to the next level and pursue nursing at the undergraduate level. By using my degree and working at the bedside, I hope to improve health outcomes, advocate for patients, educate the public, and more. Above all, I hope to do justice to my inner child playing pretend with her brother; all she wanted to do was help.

What does being a Muslim mean to you: Islam is irreparably related to spreading and pursuing peace. Whenever trusting Allah to guide us toward peaceful solutions or treating others with kindness and respect, my faith teaches me to bring peace to the world. When Aisha was upon a misbehaving camel, she began to strike it, only for Mohammad (peace be upon him) to say that she must be gentle; gentleness is not in anything except that it beautifies it. It is not removed from anything except that it disgraces it. The idea that gentleness can be more effective than a blow from a malicious hand impacted me and my understanding of the world. I carry this lesson into my daily life, spreading peace, kindness, and gentleness whenever possible. These values are central to the Islamic faith and essential to my Muslim identity. For me, being a Muslim means being kind. What will your major be, and why are you passionate about pursuing it: I grew up in a family of health professionals. From nurses like my mother and grandmother to doctors like my uncles, I was raised in a medically focused environment. When I was little, my brother had a massive bone break, had to undergo surgery, and had many months of rehab. After observing my mother soothe and heal her son with her nursing expertise, I slowly witnessed my career choice surfacing before my eyes. I wanted to help people like my brother; for kids experiencing the worst time in their lives, I wanted to be the hand that helped them heal. Did someone inspire you to pursue this career? If so, who: My grandmother was massively influential in my decision to pursue nursing. She grew up impoverished in Guyana, selling eggs and cleaning homes with her seven siblings to make ends meet. Throughout her childhood, her father instilled a value in education, so she studied hard in high school, going on to enroll in nursing school in London on a full scholarship. Her nursing career has allowed her to care for the English elite, taken her to the USA, and afforded her a life incomparable to the one from which she came. I intend to follow in her footsteps and look forward to what nursing brings me. Why is it essential for you to seek higher education, and what do you aspire to do with your degree: My grandmother instilled in me the value of higher education. From improved career prospects to networking to the development of lifelong learning, higher education is a valuable investment in my future. In my chosen profession, college is the only path to success, but after college, the possibilities are endless. I intend to pursue a Doctor of Nursing Practice and open my practice in my chosen specialty. I will provide affordable healthcare to my community through this practice. How have you made a difference in your community: Starting in September 2022, I have been working towards becoming an EMT. I ride on an ambulance weekly, assisting and learning from the EMTs. In addition, I have enrolled in an EMT certification class that will run from January 2023 to May 2023. The course is weighted at seven credit hours and is a massive undertaking, but I have enjoyed it. We learn everything from CPR to the secondary trauma assessment to prepare us for the certification exam. I am set to be a certified EMT come June, and I look forward to better serving community members in their darkest hours.

Stethoscopes, shears, and syringes were packed into the doctor's playset, a well-loved and utilized bag of miracle cures. My little brother was my first patient, and I experienced much joy in clumsily applying disinfectant and bandaids to his scrapes and bruises. However, I was not prepared to cure him when he suffered three significant breaks in his arm. I was in awe of the doctors and nurses who dutifully utilized the accurate versions of my playset parts to help repair his bones. After observing my mother soothe and heal her son with her nursing expertise, I slowly witnessed my career choice surfacing before my eyes. As a registered nurse and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, my mother has spent the past seventeen years teaching me that multifaceted healthcare includes physical, mental, and spiritual components. She instilled in me a desire to help others. I decided to start my journey in Emergency Medical Services at a local training program for teenagers who want to learn about the medical field. After earning CPR / AED, First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens certifications, COVID-19 interrupted my search for internships and further courses. To stay connected with hospitals, I started crocheting hats for babies in local hospitals and lived vicariously through my mother's horror stories of COVID-19. These stories only strengthened my conviction to become a nurse. Once school resumed, I joined my local firehouse as an EMT, rode in an ambulance, and responded to emergency calls. I also enrolled in a volunteer program in a local hospital's pediatric unit, where I interacted with and supported families experiencing the trauma of having a sick child. These experiences also solidified my passion for working at the bedside. Because nursing is a broad field with many opportunities to specialize, I wanted to explore some different concentrations further to make an informed decision in college and beyond. I therefore applied and was admitted to a couple of summer programs, including a career development internship with Kaiser Permanente. The Kaiser Permanente program allowed me to meet with dozens of practicing professionals, from physical therapists to pediatricians, to ophthalmologists. At this juncture, I realized that I had a gap in my knowledge of psychology, so I secured an internship with a Johns Hopkins-backed med-psych company focusing on pediatric drug addiction and mental health. There, I immersed myself in the practicalities of research, recruited subjects for studies, and created communication tools to educate patients better. At this junction, I am prepared to take my education to the next level and pursue nursing at the undergraduate level. Above all, I hope to do justice to my inner child playing pretend with her brother; all she wanted to do was help.

Stethoscopes, shears, and syringes were packed into the doctor's playset, a well-loved and utilized bag of miracle cures. My little brother was my first patient, and I experienced much joy in clumsily applying disinfectant and bandaids to his scrapes and bruises. However, I was not prepared to cure him when he suffered three significant breaks in his arm. I was in awe of the doctors and nurses who dutifully utilized the accurate versions of my playset parts to help repair his bones. After observing my mother soothe and heal her son with her nursing expertise, I slowly witnessed my career choice surfacing before my eyes. As a registered nurse and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, my mother has spent the past seventeen years teaching me that multifaceted healthcare includes physical, mental, and spiritual components. She instilled in me a desire to help others. I decided to start my journey in Emergency Medical Services at a local training program for teenagers who want to learn about the medical field. After earning CPR / AED, First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens certifications, COVID-19 interrupted my search for internships and further courses. To stay connected with hospitals, I started crocheting hats for babies in local hospitals and lived vicariously through my mother's horror stories of COVID-19. These stories only strengthened my conviction to become a nurse. Once school resumed, I joined my local firehouse as an EMT, rode in an ambulance, and responded to emergency calls. I also enrolled in a volunteer program in a local hospital's pediatric unit, where I interacted with and supported families experiencing the trauma of having a sick child. These experiences also solidified my passion for working at the bedside. Because nursing is a broad field with many opportunities to specialize, I wanted to explore some different concentrations further to make an informed decision in college and beyond. I therefore applied and was admitted to a couple of summer programs, including a career development internship with Kaiser Permanente. The Kaiser Permanente program allowed me to meet with dozens of practicing professionals, from physical therapists to pediatricians, to ophthalmologists. At this juncture, I realized that I had a gap in my knowledge of psychology, so I secured an internship with a Johns Hopkins-backed med-psych company focusing on pediatric drug addiction and mental health. There, I immersed myself in the practicalities of research, recruited subjects for studies, and created communication tools to educate patients better. At this junction, I am prepared to take my education to the next level and pursue nursing at the undergraduate level. Above all, I hope to do justice to my inner child playing pretend with her brother; all she wanted to do was help.

Feminism is a multifaceted movement recognizing our society's inherent inequality and discrimination based on gender identity. It is about advocating for women's rights and all individuals' rights regardless of gender identity. Feminism seeks to challenge and dismantle the societal norms and structures that perpetuate gender inequality, including the wage gap, gender-based violence, and the underrepresentation of women in leadership positions. Feminism recognizes that gender identity intersects with other identities, such as race, class, and sexual orientation, creating unique experiences of discrimination and oppression. Feminism aims to address these intersections and create a more inclusive and intersectional movement that fights for the rights and autonomy of all individuals. To me, feminism means recognizing and addressing the systemic barriers that prevent individuals from achieving their full potential based on their gender identity. It means advocating for the rights and autonomy of all individuals and working towards creating a more equitable and just society for everyone. Feminism is not about women seeking domination over men or seeking superiority but about creating a world where everyone has equal access to opportunities and resources, regardless of gender identity. Feminism is about challenging the status quo and creating a future where everyone can achieve their full potential and live fulfilling and equitable lives. Growing up, I was inspired by my mother's courage and perseverance in the face of adversity. She faced discrimination and inequality as a woman in a male-dominated nursing field but never let these obstacles hold her back. She dedicated her life to caring for others, breaking down barriers for women in healthcare, and advocating for gender equality. Witnessing her struggles and accomplishments has shaped my understanding of the importance of feminism and its role in promoting gender equality. My mother's unwavering determination and resilience have shown me the power of individual action in bringing change. Her legacy has inspired me to take action and contribute to the feminist movement in my community and school. I have organized and participated in various events, including rallies, panel discussions, and workshops, to address gender-based violence, the gender pay gap, and reproductive rights. Through my activism, I hope to inspire others to join the fight for gender equality and create a more just and equitable world for all genders. Feminism is an essential movement seeking to create a more just and equitable society for all individuals, regardless of gender identity. It recognizes the systemic barriers and discrimination that individuals face based on their gender identity and works to challenge and dismantle the societal norms and structures that perpetuate gender inequality. Feminism is not just about advocating for women's rights but for the rights and autonomy of all individuals. It is about breaking down barriers, addressing the intersections of gender with other identities, and promoting equal access to opportunities and resources. Through my mother's inspiration, I have become a passionate advocate for gender equality and have contributed to the feminist movement in my community and school. By taking individual action and working together, I believe we can create a more inclusive, equitable, and just society for everyone.

Stethoscopes, shears, and syringes were packed into the doctor's playset, a well-loved and utilized bag of miracle cures. My little brother was my first patient, and I experienced much joy in clumsily applying disinfectant and bandaids to his scrapes and bruises. However, I was not prepared to cure him when he suffered three significant breaks in his arm. I was in awe of the doctors and nurses who dutifully utilized the accurate versions of my playset parts to help repair his bones. After observing my mother soothe and heal her son with her nursing expertise, I slowly witnessed my career choice surfacing before my eyes. As a registered nurse and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, my mother has spent the past seventeen years teaching me that multifaceted healthcare includes physical, mental, and spiritual components. She instilled in me a desire to help others. I decided to start my journey in Emergency Medical Services at a local training program for teenagers who want to learn about the medical field. After earning CPR / AED, First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens certifications, COVID-19 interrupted my search for internships and further courses. To stay connected with hospitals, I started crocheting hats for babies in local hospitals and lived vicariously through my mother's horror stories of COVID-19. These stories only strengthened my conviction to become a nurse. Once school resumed, I joined my local firehouse as an EMT, rode in an ambulance, and responded to emergency calls. I also enrolled in a volunteer program in a local hospital's pediatric unit, where I interacted with and supported families experiencing the trauma of having a sick child. These experiences also solidified my passion for working at the bedside. Because nursing is a broad field and there are so many opportunities to specialize, I wanted to further explore some different concentrations to make an informed decision in college and beyond. I therefore applied and was admitted to a couple of summer programs, including a career development internship with Kaiser Permanente. The Kaiser Permanente program allowed me to meet with dozens of practicing professionals, from physical therapists to pediatricians, to ophthalmologists. At this juncture, I realized that I had a gap in my knowledge of psychology, so I secured an internship with a Johns Hopkins-backed med-psych company focusing on pediatric drug addiction and mental health. There, I immersed myself in the practicalities of research, recruited subjects for studies, and created communication tools to educate patients better. At this junction, I am prepared to take my education to the next level and pursue nursing at the undergraduate level. Above all, I hope to do justice to my inner child playing pretend with her brother; all she wanted to do was help.

Healthy eating habits play a crucial role in maintaining overall health and well-being. The food we consume provides us with energy and affects our physical and mental health in numerous ways. A balanced and nutritious diet can reduce the risk of chronic diseases, improve cognitive function, and boost mood and energy levels. In this essay, I will discuss why it is essential to have healthy eating habits and highlight the difference I have noticed in my physical and mental health when practicing these habits. My thesis statement is that healthy eating habits are essential for maintaining good health, reducing the risk of chronic diseases, and improving both physical and mental well-being. Healthy eating habits involve consuming a well-balanced and nutritious diet that provides the body with essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals. Such a diet comprises fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats in appropriate portions. Incorporating healthy eating habits into one's lifestyle offers numerous benefits, including reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. Additionally, it improves cognitive function, boosts energy levels, and promotes overall well-being. Healthy eating habits can also enhance mental health by reducing the risk of depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues. Furthermore, a healthy diet promotes healthy skin, hair, and nails, improving overall appearance and self-esteem. Unhealthy eating habits can have detrimental effects on physical health. Consuming a diet high in processed and sugary foods, saturated and trans fats, and low in nutrients can increase the risk of chronic diseases such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and certain types of cancer. These foods are often high in calories and low in essential nutrients, which can lead to weight gain and nutrient deficiencies. Additionally, excessive amounts of sodium and unhealthy fats can cause high blood pressure and cholesterol levels, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke. Unhealthy eating habits can also contribute to digestive issues such as constipation, bloating, and abdominal discomfort. The long-term effects of unhealthy eating habits can significantly impact physical health, resulting in a higher risk of chronic diseases and a lower quality of life. In conclusion, healthy eating habits are crucial for maintaining good physical and mental health. A balanced and nutritious diet can reduce the risk of chronic diseases, improve cognitive function, boost mood and energy levels, and promote overall well-being. On the other hand, unhealthy eating habits can harm physical health, leading to a higher risk of chronic diseases and a lower quality of life. Therefore, it is essential to implement healthy eating habits into our daily routines. This can be achieved by incorporating a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats in appropriate portions. We should also avoid or limit the consumption of processed and sugary foods, saturated and trans fats, and excessive amounts of sodium. We can significantly improve our health and well-being by making small changes to our diet and lifestyle. Let us commit to maintaining healthy eating habits and living our best lives.

Calculus is crucial for problem-solving in STEM fields, providing a framework for understanding how things change over time. It enables scientists and engineers to model and predict complex phenomena, like physical systems and object trajectories. Calculus also forms the basis of advanced mathematical concepts, including differential equations and Fourier analysis, which are necessary for developing modern technologies such as quantum mechanics and artificial intelligence. Calculus's fundamental concepts are differentiation and integration. Differentiation calculates a function's change rate at a specific point, while integration finds the area under a curve. The fundamental theorem of calculus connects these two concepts, stating that differentiation and integration are inverse operations. Calculus provides a framework to understand quantities' changes over time and their relationships. Additionally, calculus uses limits to define function behavior near singular points. The calculus concepts form the basis of advanced mathematical ideas, including optimization, partial differential equations, and Fourier analysis, which apply in scientific and engineering fields. Calculus has many STEM applications, including physics, engineering, computer science, and economics. Physicists use calculus to model and analyze physical systems like waves and motion. It also helps develop theories like relativity and quantum mechanics. Engineers use calculus to optimize designs, such as circuits, structures, and processes. Calculus develops algorithms for data analysis, machine learning, and optimization problems in computer science. Economists use calculus to model and analyze systems, such as financial markets and supply and demand. These are a few examples of how calculus predicts and solves problems in STEM fields, making it an indispensable tool for scientists and engineers. Calculus experts have diverse and abundant career opportunities across various industries and fields. They can work as research scientists, data analysts, and engineers in science and engineering, optimizing complex systems and processes. In computer science and information technology, they can work as software developers, data scientists, and machine learning engineers, developing algorithms and models for modern technology. They can work as financial analysts, investment bankers, and economists in finance and economics, using mathematical models to analyze markets and predict trends. Other career paths include academia, teaching, and consulting. The high demand for skilled calculus experts creates vast and varied career opportunities, making it a promising field for those passionate about math and science. Calculus is a critical tool in the STEM field, offering a powerful means of modeling and analyzing complex systems and processes. Its fundamental concepts of differentiation and integration, combined with limits, provide a framework for understanding quantity changes over time and their relationship. Calculus has vast applications in physics, engineering, computer science, and economics. Its versatility and power make it an indispensable tool for scientists and engineers in various disciplines. A career in calculus offers many opportunities for growth and innovation, making it an exciting and rewarding field for math and science enthusiasts to pursue.

I began taekwondo at the age of six, and ten years later, the sport continues to enhance life skills such as my confidence, flexibility, and concentration. I will never forget Master Lee’s mantras, such as “A black belt is a white belt who never gives up,” which are now ingrained in my psyche. I unconsciously apply these philosophies in my academic and extracurricular activities. Last year I wrote an oncological paper for a Georgetown University online biomedical course. I sent a good thousand words down the drain before realizing that the parameters of my investigation were too broad. Simply, it was not efficacious to evaluate whether a biopharmaceutical drug is effective in improving remission rates if I only researched general demographics such as age groups and types of cancer. I did not want to give up on my premise and previous independent investigations, so I narrowed the scope and only examined patients aged 2-5 with Philadelphia chromosome-negative myeloproliferative neoplasms. This research reminded me of another master lee maxim: “Maintain focus, but the process is growth.” Martial arts has taught me many things, from courageousness when encountering challenges to the importance of respecting myself and others. Whether completing a school project or learning new techniques, I now approach challenges enthusiastically and open-mindedly, paying attention to details and plans before expediting the process. In other words, I learned how to persevere and conquer.

I grew up in a family where money was always tight, and I saw my parents struggle to make ends meet. So, I always dreamed of becoming rich and living my life on my terms. But the problem was I needed to figure out how to do it. One day, my high school economics teacher started talking about generational wealth, and I was hooked. Who wouldn't want to build wealth that could last for generations? So, I started researching everything I could about personal finance and investing. I read books, listened to podcasts, and attended financial education seminars. I even talked to financial advisors, who gave me fancy advice like "diversify your portfolio" and "eliminate high-interest debt." I'm not going to lie, some of it went over my head, but I was determined to make it work. The best part was when I started inspiring others to take control of their finances. Who knew that I had it in me to inspire people? It was like I had become a personal finance guru, and it was hilarious because I'm just a regular girl who happened to stumble upon this stuff. Now, I'm building wealth for myself and making a legacy for my family. I look forward to continuing my mission toward generational wealth through saving and budgeting, real estate, and investing. Saving and budgeting are critical steps in building generational wealth. By living below my means and regularly setting aside a portion of my income, I can accumulate wealth over time. Building an emergency fund is essential to protect against unexpected financial shocks. Finally, investing in retirement accounts will help me take advantage of compound interest and tax benefits, allowing my money to grow faster. These steps can set me up for long-term financial success. There are various real estate investments, including rental properties, commercial properties, and real estate investment trusts (REITs). Real estate investment offers numerous benefits, including the potential for long-term appreciation, passive income through rental income, and diversification of my investment portfolio. However, there are also risks and pitfalls to be aware of, such as the potential for vacancy, repairs and maintenance costs, and unexpected market downturns. To succeed in real estate investing, it is essential to research, have a solid understanding of the local market, and have a well-planned investment strategy. It is also critical to have a reliable team of professionals, to help me navigate the complexities of real estate investing. There are various types of investments, including stocks, bonds, real estate, commodities, and mutual funds. Diversification across different investments is critical in building generational wealth, as it can help reduce overall risk and increase potential returns. Investing in other asset classes can protect my portfolio against market volatility and potential losses. However, it is essential to be aware of the risks and pitfalls of diversification, such as over-diversification, which can lead to lower returns and unnecessary complexity. To successfully diversify my portfolio, I must have a well-planned investment strategy, be patient, and avoid making rash decisions based on short-term market fluctuations. Building generational wealth is not just a dream; it is achievable with dedication and the right strategies. Through saving and budgeting, real estate investments, and diversification, I can set myself up for long-term financial success and create a legacy for my family. While there are risks and pitfalls to be aware of, I can navigate the complexities of personal finance and invest with proper research, planning, and a reliable team of professionals. As I continue this mission toward generational wealth, I am excited to see what the future holds and the possibilities.

I was not in the foster care system. Stethoscopes, shears, and syringes were packed into the doctor's playset, a well-loved and utilized bag of miracle cures. My little brother was my first patient, and I experienced much joy in clumsily applying disinfectant and bandaids to his scrapes and bruises. However, I was not prepared to cure him when he suffered three significant breaks in his arm. I was in awe of the doctors and nurses who dutifully utilized the accurate versions of my playset parts to help repair his bones. After observing my mother soothe and heal her son with her nursing expertise, I slowly witnessed my career choice surfacing before my eyes. As a registered nurse and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, my mother has spent the past seventeen years teaching me that multifaceted healthcare includes physical, mental, and spiritual components. She instilled in me a desire to help others. I decided to start my journey in Emergency Medical Services at a local training program for teenagers who want to learn about the medical field. After earning CPR / AED, First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens certifications, COVID-19 interrupted my search for internships and further courses. To stay connected with hospitals, I started crocheting hats for babies in local hospitals and lived vicariously through my mother's horror stories of COVID-19. These stories only strengthened my conviction to become a nurse. Once school resumed, I joined my local firehouse as an EMT, rode in an ambulance, and responded to emergency calls. I also enrolled in a volunteer program in a local hospital's pediatric unit, where I interacted with and supported families experiencing the trauma of having a sick child. These experiences also solidified my passion for working at the bedside. To increase the breadth of my influence in my community, I applied and was admitted to a couple of summer programs, including a career development internship with Kaiser Permanente. The Kaiser Permanente program allowed me to meet with dozens of practicing professionals, from physical therapists to pediatricians, to ophthalmologists. At this juncture, I realized that I had a gap in my knowledge of psychology, so I secured an internship with a Johns Hopkins-backed med-psych company focusing on pediatric drug addiction and mental health. There, I immersed myself in the practicalities of research, recruited subjects for studies, and created communication tools to educate patients better. I am continually inspired by my mother and her career's impact on our community. I plan to follow in her footsteps and pursue nursing at the undergraduate level come Fall 2023. Above all, I hope to do justice to my inner child playing pretend with her brother; all she wanted to do was help.

Stethoscopes, shears, and syringes were packed into the doctor's playset, a well-loved and utilized bag of miracle cures. My little brother was my first patient, and I experienced much joy in clumsily applying disinfectant and bandaids to his scrapes and bruises. However, I was not prepared to cure him when he suffered three significant breaks in his arm. I was in awe of the doctors and nurses who dutifully utilized the accurate versions of my playset parts to help repair his bones. After observing my mother soothe and heal her son with her nursing expertise, I slowly witnessed my career choice surfacing before my eyes. As a registered nurse and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, my mother has spent the past seventeen years teaching me that multifaceted healthcare includes physical, mental, and spiritual components. She instilled in me a desire to help others. I decided to start my journey in Emergency Medical Services at a local training program for teenagers who want to learn about the medical field. After earning CPR / AED, First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens certifications, COVID-19 interrupted my search for internships and further courses. To stay connected with hospitals, I started crocheting hats for babies in local hospitals and lived vicariously through my mother's horror stories of COVID-19. These stories only strengthened my conviction to become a nurse. Once school resumed, I joined my local firehouse as an EMT, rode in an ambulance, and responded to emergency calls. I also enrolled in a volunteer program in a local hospital's pediatric unit, where I interacted with and supported families experiencing the trauma of having a sick child. These experiences also solidified my passion for working at the bedside. To increase the breadth of my influence in my community, I applied and was admitted to a couple of summer programs, including a career development internship with Kaiser Permanente. The Kaiser Permanente program allowed me to meet with dozens of practicing professionals, from physical therapists to pediatricians, to ophthalmologists. At this juncture, I realized that I had a gap in my knowledge of psychology, so I secured an internship with a Johns Hopkins-backed med-psych company focusing on pediatric drug addiction and mental health. There, I immersed myself in the practicalities of research, recruited subjects for studies, and created communication tools to educate patients better. I am continually inspired by my mother and her career's impact on our community. I plan to follow in her footsteps and pursue nursing at the undergraduate level come Fall 2023. Above all, I hope to do justice to my inner child playing pretend with her brother; all she wanted to do was help.

Stethoscopes, shears, and syringes were packed into the doctor's playset, a well-loved and utilized bag of miracle cures. My little brother was my first patient, and I experienced much joy in clumsily applying disinfectant and bandaids to his scrapes and bruises. However, I was not prepared to cure him when he suffered three significant breaks in his arm. I was in awe of the doctors and nurses who dutifully utilized the accurate versions of my playset parts to help repair his bones. After observing my mother soothe and heal her son with her nursing expertise, I slowly witnessed my career choice surfacing before my eyes. As a registered nurse and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, my mother has spent the past seventeen years teaching me that multifaceted healthcare includes physical, mental, and spiritual components. She instilled in me a desire to help others. I decided to start my journey in Emergency Medical Services at a local training program for teenagers who want to learn about the medical field. After earning CPR / AED, First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens certifications, COVID-19 interrupted my search for internships and further courses. To stay connected with hospitals, I started crocheting hats for babies in local hospitals and lived vicariously through my mother's horror stories of COVID-19. These stories only strengthened my conviction to become a nurse. Once school resumed, I joined my local firehouse as an EMT, rode in an ambulance, and responded to emergency calls. I also enrolled in a volunteer program in a local hospital's pediatric unit, where I interacted with and supported families experiencing the trauma of having a sick child. These experiences also solidified my passion for working at the bedside. To increase the breadth of my influence in my community, I applied and was admitted to a couple of summer programs, including a career development internship with Kaiser Permanente. The Kaiser Permanente program allowed me to meet with dozens of practicing professionals, from physical therapists to pediatricians, to ophthalmologists. At this juncture, I realized that I had a gap in my knowledge of psychology, so I secured an internship with a Johns Hopkins-backed med-psych company focusing on pediatric drug addiction and mental health. There, I immersed myself in the practicalities of research, recruited subjects for studies, and created communication tools to educate patients better. I am continually inspired by my mother and her career's impact on our community. I plan to follow in her footsteps and pursue nursing at the undergraduate level come Fall 2023. Above all, I hope to do justice to my inner child playing pretend with her brother; all she wanted to do was help.

As a young girl, I had always been fascinated by money. I loved counting my allowance and saving up for special treats. But as I got older, I realized there was so much more to financial literacy than saving and spending. I became interested in understanding how money worked and how to make it work for me. One of the critical turning points for me came when I started working part-time at a local martial arts center. I had always enjoyed earning my own money, but now I have faced new challenges, like budgeting and paying bills. I quickly learned to be more mindful of how I spent and saved my money to be financially successful. I turned to online resources and books to learn more about financial literacy. I read about budgeting, investing, and other financial topics and had a natural aptitude for understanding complex financial concepts. I was lucky to have a supportive family who encouraged me to ask questions and seek additional resources. As my interest in financial literacy grew, I started to share what I had learned with my friends and family. I became known as the "money guru" among my peers, and I loved helping others understand their finances and make informed decisions about their money. I am grateful for the foundation of financial literacy that I built as a young girl, and I am committed to helping others create the same foundation for themselves. Financial literacy is an essential skill that can significantly impact our lives. It allows us to make informed decisions about our money and can help us achieve our financial goals. As someone committed to improving my financial literacy and helping others do the same, I have several strategies in mind. One of the most effective ways to educate myself and others about financial literacy is through formal education. This could include taking classes or workshops, earning a degree in a related field, or participating in professional development programs. Formal education can provide a strong foundation of knowledge and skills that can be applied in real-world situations. In addition to formal education, I also plan on taking advantage of online resources and tools. Many websites, apps, and other resources can help us learn more about personal finance and budgeting. Some of these resources are free, while others may require a small investment. Either way, they can be valuable for learning and staying up-to-date on financial literacy topics. Another strategy I plan on using is seeking mentors or advisors knowledgeable about financial literacy. These individuals can provide guidance, support, and personalized advice that can be incredibly helpful in our efforts to improve our financial literacy. I plan to build a network of mentors and advisors who can help me navigate the complexities of personal finance and achieve my financial goals. Finally, I plan on sharing what I learn with others. Whether through teaching or simply by sharing resources and information, it is essential to help others become financially literate. By educating ourselves and others about financial literacy, we can work together to build a more financially secure and prosperous society. There are many ways to educate ourselves and others about financial literacy. Through formal education, online resources, mentors and advisors, or sharing knowledge with others, we can improve our financial literacy and make informed decisions about our money. I am committed to taking advantage of these opportunities and helping others do the same.

From the food we eat to the products we buy and how we get around, our decisions can either contribute to environmental degradation or help protect the Earth's natural resources. Living sustainably may seem like a daunting task, but there are many simple changes that we can make in our daily lives to work towards a more eco-friendly life. One of the most obvious ways our daily choices impact the environment is through our consumption habits. The food we eat, the products we use, and how we dispose of them impact the planet. For example, buying and consuming locally sourced, organic foods can help reduce the carbon emissions associated with transportation while also supporting sustainable farming practices. On the other hand, purchasing single-use plastic products, such as bottled water or plastic bags, can contribute to plastic pollution and harm wildlife. I focus on reducing my consumption, trying to follow the sentiment of “the most eco-friendly thing you can get are the things you already have.” This results in simple, sustainable swaps; for example, I use old Trader Joe’s Bags instead of buying new wrapping paper. Utilizing your belongings to the fullest extent and not wasting your purchases is key to creating a more sustainable world. Another way our daily choices impact the environment is through our transportation choices. Using a car for short trips, rather than walking or biking, can contribute to air pollution and climate change. Public transportation, carpooling, or riding a bike can help reduce these negative impacts. Additionally, choosing to live in a location that allows easy access to public transportation and other amenities can help reduce the need for car ownership, which can positively impact the environment. I push myself to carpool as much as possible on group outings for convenience and the planet. I do not live in a walkable or bikeable area, so carpooling is an easy and fun way for me to reduce my carbon footprint. In addition to our choices in our personal lives, our decisions as consumers can also significantly impact the environment. By supporting companies committed to sustainability and environmental protection, we can encourage the growth of eco-friendly businesses and help shift the market towards more sustainable practices. This can include buying products made from recycled materials, supporting companies that use renewable energy, and avoiding those that engage in environmentally-destructive practices, such as deforestation or pollution. I implement this idea through shopping at second-hand stores for everyday items like hoodies and jeans and turning to high-quality, sustainable brands like Everlane for unique occasion pieces. Living sustainably is about making small changes in our daily lives that can significantly impact the environment. By reducing our consumption, choosing sustainable transportation options, and supporting eco-friendly businesses, we can all play a role in protecting the planet and ensuring a healthy future for generations.

Stethoscopes, shears, and syringes were packed into the doctor's playset, a well-loved and utilized bag of miracle cures. My little brother was my first patient, and I experienced much joy in clumsily applying disinfectant and bandaids to his scrapes and bruises. However, I was not prepared to cure him when he suffered three significant breaks in his arm. I was in awe of the doctors and nurses who dutifully utilized the accurate versions of my playset parts to help repair his bones. After observing my mother soothe and heal her son with her nursing expertise, I slowly witnessed my career choice surfacing before my eyes. As a registered nurse and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, my mother has spent the past seventeen years teaching me that multifaceted healthcare includes physical, mental, and spiritual components. She instilled in me a desire to help others. I decided to start my journey in Emergency Medical Services at a local training program for teenagers who want to learn about the medical field. After earning CPR / AED, First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens certifications, COVID-19 interrupted my search for internships and further courses. To stay connected with hospitals, I started crocheting hats for babies in local hospitals and lived vicariously through my mother's horror stories of COVID-19. These stories only strengthened my conviction to become a nurse. Once school resumed, I joined my local firehouse as an EMT, rode in an ambulance, and responded to emergency calls. I also enrolled in a volunteer program in a local hospital's pediatric unit, where I interacted with and supported families experiencing the trauma of having a sick child. These experiences also solidified my passion for working at the bedside. To increase the breadth of my influence in my community, I applied and was admitted to a couple of summer programs, including a career development internship with Kaiser Permanente. The Kaiser Permanente program allowed me to meet with dozens of practicing professionals, from physical therapists to pediatricians, to ophthalmologists. At this juncture, I realized that I had a gap in my knowledge of psychology, so I secured an internship with a Johns Hopkins-backed med-psych company focusing on pediatric drug addiction and mental health. There, I immersed myself in the practicalities of research, recruited subjects for studies, and created communication tools to educate patients better. I am continually inspired by my mother and her career's impact on our community. I hope to follow in her footsteps and pursue nursing at the undergraduate level come Fall 2023. Above all, I hope to do justice to my inner child playing pretend with her brother; all she wanted to do was help.

Stethoscopes, shears, and syringes were packed into the doctor's playset, a well-loved and utilized bag of miracle cures. My little brother was my first patient, and I experienced much joy in clumsily applying disinfectant and bandaids to his scrapes and bruises. However, I was not prepared to cure him when he suffered three significant breaks in his arm. I was in awe of the doctors and nurses who dutifully utilized the accurate versions of my playset parts to help repair his bones. After observing my mother soothe and heal her son with her nursing expertise, I slowly witnessed my career choice surfacing before my eyes. As a registered nurse and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, my mother has spent the past seventeen years teaching me that multifaceted healthcare includes physical, mental, and spiritual components. She instilled in me a desire to help others. I decided to start my journey in Emergency Medical Services at a local training program for teenagers who want to learn about the medical field. After earning CPR / AED, First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens certifications, COVID-19 interrupted my search for internships and further courses. To stay connected with hospitals, I started crocheting hats for babies in local hospitals and lived vicariously through my mother's horror stories of COVID-19. These stories only strengthened my conviction to become a nurse. Once school resumed, I enrolled in a volunteer program in a local hospital's pediatric unit, where I interacted with and supported families experiencing the trauma of having a sick child. While volunteering at the hospital, I worked with a young girl suffering from stomach issues. I played with her, talked to her about soccer and gymnastics, and distracted her from her surroundings for a couple of hours. Though a small interaction, the experience stuck with me. I want to improve the lives of people like that girl who need it most—working with her strengthened my conviction for working at the bedside. Because nursing is a broad field with so many opportunities to specialize, I wanted to explore some different concentrations further to make an informed decision in college and beyond. I therefore applied and was admitted to a couple of summer programs, including a career development internship with Kaiser Permanente. The Kaiser Permanente program allowed me to meet with dozens of practicing professionals, from physical therapists to pediatricians, to ophthalmologists. At this juncture, I realized that I had a gap in my knowledge of psychology, so I secured an internship with a Johns Hopkins-backed med-psych company focusing on pediatric drug addiction and mental health. There, I immersed myself in the practicalities of research, recruited subjects for studies, and created communication tools to educate patients better. At this junction, I am prepared to take my education to the next level and pursue nursing at the undergraduate level. A scholarship will significantly reduce financial stress so that I may focus on my studies and clinical experiences in school. By receiving this scholarship, I will have the resources and support necessary to excel in my degree program and begin my journey in healthcare. Above all, this scholarship will help to do justice to my inner child playing pretend with her brother; all she wanted to do was help.

Oh, how my mind doth race and race, A chaotic mass of thoughts and pace. I see my life as a dream, A fleeting wisp, a momentary gleam. I stand upon a precipice, And gaze out at the vast abyss, A chasm wide, a gaping maw, A path that leads to naught but loss. But yet, I cannot help but yearn, To feel the wind, to know the burn, To see the thrill, the rush of fear, To feel alive, to know I'm here. So here I stand, with heart afire, With dreams that feed my boundless desire, With courage born from deep inside, I'll take a step, spread my wings, and glide. I'll sail across the open skies, And reach for the stars that forever shine. I'll chase my dreams with all my might, And pave my way with purpose, not just fight. I'll face the storms and overcome them, the doubts and fears that might succumb the steps I take toward my goal, for I know that I am in control. And if I fall, I'll rise again, For every stumble is just a step toward the end A journey to the person I'm meant to be, And I know that I'll get there, eventually.

The transition to solar energy is a highly impactful means of combating climate change and decreasing greenhouse gas emissions. Solar energy is a clean, renewable source of electricity that harnesses the sun's power, emitting no greenhouse gases or other pollutants during operation. It is, therefore, a more sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas. One of the primary advantages of solar energy is its ability to be generated locally, thus avoiding the need for long-distance transportation. This reduces the carbon emissions associated with the production and distribution of electricity. Solar energy is relatively inexpensive and easy to install, making it a cost-effective and practical choice for households and businesses. Individuals and communities can significantly impact the fight against climate change by converting to solar energy. The adoption of solar power allows for a reduction in carbon emissions and contributes to the transition from fossil fuels, which are finite resources. This shift towards a renewable energy source benefits the environment and promotes the development of a more sustainable and resilient future for all. It is within the power of individuals to take action to combat climate change and reduce their carbon footprints. One simple and effective way to do this is to adopt a plant-based diet. The cultivation and production of meat and dairy products are significant contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, mainly methane and nitrous oxide, which are significantly more potent in terms of their global warming potential than carbon dioxide. In contrast, plant-based foods such as vegetables, grains, and legumes have a considerably lower carbon footprint and require less land and water to produce. As a result, adopting a plant-based diet is an effective means for individuals to reduce their environmental impact and contribute to the fight against climate change. By replacing meat and dairy products with plant-based options, individuals can significantly decrease their carbon footprint and aid in mitigating the impact of climate change. According to a study by the University of Oxford, transitioning to a global plant-based diet could reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 70% by 2050, making it a highly effective strategy for addressing the climate crisis. In addition to the environmental benefits, a plant-based diet can offer numerous health benefits, including reduced risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer. By making minor adjustments to your diet and consistently choosing plant-based options, you can contribute to the fight against climate change and enhance your overall health and well-being. In conclusion, transitioning to solar energy and adopting a plant-based diet are highly effective ways to combat climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. By implementing these changes, individuals and communities can significantly decrease their carbon footprint and contribute to the fight against the climate crisis. However, it is imperative to remember that these strategies are not the only ones available for addressing the issue of climate change. By adopting a comprehensive approach and examining various solutions, we can work towards a more sustainable and healthy future for all. By taking action and making minor adjustments in our daily lives, we can significantly contribute to the fight against climate change and strive for a brighter future for all.

How have you impacted the world, someone’s life, or your own life? This could be a time when you showed bravery and courage to family and peers or a time when you stepped up to the plate to help yourself or to help others. Stethoscopes, shears, and syringes were packed into the doctor's playset, a well-loved and utilized bag of miracle cures. My little brother was my first patient, and I experienced much joy in clumsily applying disinfectant and bandaids to his scrapes and bruises. After reading an adolescent biology text, I pretended to carefully excise injured tissue from his leg with my plastic scalpel. However, I was not prepared to cure him when he suffered three significant breaks in his arm and foot. Titanium rods and screws were implanted during two surgeries in his tiny body. I was in awe of the doctors and nurses who dutifully utilized the accurate versions of my playset parts to help repair his bones. After observing my mother soothe and heal her son with her nursing expertise, I slowly witnessed my career choice surfacing before my eyes. As a registered nurse and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, my mother has spent the past seventeen years teaching me that multifaceted healthcare includes physical, mental, and spiritual components. She instilled in me a desire to help others. I decided to start my journey in Emergency Medical Services at a local training program for teenagers who want to learn about the medical field. After earning CPR / AED, First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens certifications, Covid 19 interrupted my search for internships and further courses. To stay connected with hospitals, I started crocheting hats for babies in local hospitals and lived vicariously through my mother's horror stories of COVID-19. These stories only strengthened my conviction to become a nurse. Once school resumed, I joined my local firehouse as an EMT, rode in an ambulance, and responded to emergency calls. This experience was monumental for my conviction to become a nurse. On my first day on the job, I sat nervously in the back of the ambulance, trying to calm my nerves as I waited for my first call. Although overwhelmed, I knew I had to stay focused and sharp to succeed in this demanding career. Finally, the call came in, and my heart skipped a beat as the ambulance's sirens blared to life. I grabbed my gear and followed my partner Carla out of the station, my adrenaline pumping as we raced to the emergency scene. When we arrived, I saw that a man had fallen off of his roof while doing some repairs and was lying on the ground, unconscious and bleeding. Without hesitation, I followed Carla’s lead as we worked to stabilize the man and get him loaded into the ambulance. As we rushed to the hospital, my training kicked in, and I found myself focusing on the task at hand, determined to do everything I could to help the patient. When we arrived at the hospital, I was relieved to see that the man was stable and on the road to recovery, largely thanks to my efforts. As I returned to the ambulance station that evening, I couldn't help but feel proud of myself and the work that I had done. I knew that being an EMT would be challenging, but I also knew that it was a job that I was genuinely passionate about and that I was ready to face whatever challenges came my way. I look forward to applying my learnings as an EMT in my future career as a nurse. Through healthcare, I hope to honor the little girl inside me who played doctor with her brother and impact my community positively in the process.

Stethoscopes, shears, and syringes were packed into the doctor's playset, a well-loved and utilized bag of miracle cures. My little brother was my first patient, and I experienced much joy in clumsily applying disinfectant and bandaids to his scrapes and bruises. However, I was not prepared to cure him when he suffered three significant breaks in his arm. I was in awe of the doctors and nurses who dutifully utilized the accurate versions of my playset parts to help repair his bones. After observing my mother soothe and heal her son with her nursing expertise, I slowly witnessed my career choice surfacing before my eyes. As a registered nurse and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, my mother has spent the past seventeen years teaching me that multifaceted healthcare includes physical, mental, and spiritual components. She instilled in me a desire to help others. I decided to start my journey in Emergency Medical Services at a local training program for teenagers who want to learn about the medical field. After earning CPR / AED, First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens certifications, COVID-19 interrupted my search for internships and further courses. To stay connected with hospitals, I started crocheting hats for babies in local hospitals and lived vicariously through my mother's horror stories of COVID-19. These stories only strengthened my conviction to become a nurse. Once school resumed, I joined my local firehouse as an EMT, rode in an ambulance, and responded to emergency calls. I also enrolled in a volunteer program in a local hospital's pediatric unit, where I interacted with and supported families experiencing the trauma of having a sick child. These experiences also solidified my passion for working at the bedside. Because nursing is a broad field and there are so many opportunities to specialize, I wanted to further explore some different concentrations to make an informed decision in college and beyond. I therefore applied and was admitted to a couple of summer programs, including a career development internship with Kaiser Permanente. The Kaiser Permanente program allowed me to meet with dozens of practicing professionals, from physical therapists to pediatricians, to ophthalmologists. At this juncture, I realized that I had a gap in my knowledge of psychology, so I secured an internship with a Johns Hopkins-backed med-psych company focusing on pediatric drug addiction and mental health. There, I immersed myself in the practicalities of research, recruited subjects for studies, and created communication tools to educate patients better. I look forward to earning my Bachelor of Science in Nursing and working for a couple of years in bedside care. I intend to continue my education, earning a Doctor of Nursing Practice specializing in obstetrics. Throughout my nursing career, I hope to be remembered as a helping hand in the community. Giving birth is an intimate and vital moment in anyones life, and I want to be remembered for helping everything go smoothly. I am sure of my desire to help others, and I eagerly anticipate honoring the little girl inside of myself that played a doctor with my brother.

I had always been a talented lacrosse player with quick reflexes and a powerful shot. When I made the varsity team as a freshman, I was over the moon with excitement. I had always been open about my sexuality with my friends and family, and I never imagined it would be an issue on the team. But as the season went on, I began to notice some strange behavior from my teammates. They often left me out of group activities and conversations, and I would hear them making hurtful comments about me when they thought I wasn't listening. At first, I tried to ignore it and focus on my performance on the field. But as the discrimination and hostility continued, it became harder and harder for me to brush it off. I started to feel isolated and alone, and I struggled to find the motivation to keep playing. Finally, after a particularly exhausting practice, I couldn't take it any longer. I went to my coach and told her everything, breaking down in tears as I explained what had happened. To my surprise, my coach was incredibly understanding and supportive. She told me that I had a place on the team and would do everything she could to ensure the other players treated me respectfully and kindly. With my coach's support, I found the courage to stand up for myself and confront my teammates about their behavior. It wasn't easy, and there were some tense moments, but eventually, my teammates apologized, and we could move past it. From then on, the team was united and supportive, and I could focus on my love for the game without worrying about discrimination. Looking back, I was grateful for that challenging experience. It taught me the importance of standing up for myself and not letting discrimination hold me back. And it also showed me the power of finding allies and support in unexpected places. As a nurse, I know I will face many challenges and difficult situations. But I also know that I was well-prepared to handle them, thanks to the lessons I learned from my experience on the lacrosse team. First and foremost, I know the importance of standing up for myself and others. I learned that it was never too late to speak up and demand respect, even when difficult or uncomfortable. I also know how to identify allies and seek support, which would be essential in a profession where teamwork and collaboration are critical. In addition to these personal skills, I also learned the value of empathy and understanding. I know firsthand what it was like to be the target of discrimination and how hurtful and damaging it could be. As a nurse, I will be determined to be a source of support and understanding for my patients, no matter their backgrounds or circumstances. Overall, I am confident that the lessons I learned on the lacrosse team will serve me well in my future career as a nurse. I am ready to face challenges and use my skills and experiences to impact my patients' lives positively.

It is of great importance for students to manage their finances properly. This is due to several reasons. Firstly, managing finances can help students to avoid financial stress and debt. It is tempting for students to live beyond their means and rely on credit or loans to pay for expenses. However, this can lead to financial issues in the future. By creating and adhering to a budget, students can ensure that they only spend money that they have, which can prevent financial problems and help them stay on track toward their long-term goals. Managing finances also helps with saving money. Students can put more money aside for tuition, textbooks, and other expenses by being mindful of their spending habits and looking for opportunities to save. This can make the experience of being a student more manageable and give them more flexibility to pursue their interests. In addition to these practical considerations, managing finances as a student can also help to develop essential life skills that will be beneficial in the future. Skills such as budgeting, saving, and investing are crucial and will be valuable in any career or life situation. By learning to manage their finances as a student, individuals will be better prepared to face the financial challenges and opportunities that may arise in the future. By being mindful of their spending habits, creating and adhering to a budget, and looking for opportunities to save, students can set themselves up for financial success and achieve their long-term goals. I learned these lessons over time as I worked part-time through high school. I got my first job when I was 14 and continued working through the pandemic into my senior year of high school. Through all these jobs, I had a rule for allocating allowance and savings: hundreds to savings, tens to me. In practice, if I get a paycheck of $250, I would put $200 in savings and $50 into my debit account to spend at leisure. Sticking to this budget over time, I amassed a healthy amount of savings to support me through my first year of college. In addition, I have enough spare funds to start investing in stocks and open up a retirement account as soon as I turn 18. I needed to manage my finances because I knew I was saving for my future. It is hard to save for something you cannot foresee, but supporting myself in college has been an attainable goal for me to set my sights on. Through budgeting, saving, and investing, I look forward to witnessing the future I earned

As a dedicated and driven student, I have always excelled in my studies and participated in numerous extracurricular activities. My goal was to attend college and achieve my aspirations. However, my world was turned upside down when my older brother, who had struggled with substance abuse and legal problems, was sentenced to prison. The news shattered my heart and left me feeling helpless. Despite my brother's mistakes, I knew that he was a good person who had fallen in hard times. The reality of my brother's incarceration weighed heavily on my mind and made it difficult for me to focus on schoolwork. I also struggled with anxiety and depression as I could not shake the feeling that I had somehow let him down. However, I refused to let my brother's situation hold me back. I redoubled my efforts in school and made a conscious effort to stay out of trouble, determined to be a role model for my brother and myself. The experience of my brother's incarceration was a difficult and transformative one for me. In the face of such a challenging situation, I learned the value of perseverance and resilience. I knew that even when life throws you a curveball, it is essential to keep moving forward and never give up on your dreams. I also learned the importance of being a role model for myself and others. I knew my brother was looking up to me, and I did not want to let him down. I wanted to show him that overcoming adversity and achieving your goals is possible, even facing challenges. This motivated me to work harder in school and stay on the right path. The experience of my brother's incarceration also had a significant impact on my academic and career ambitions. It made me more determined than ever to succeed and to make a positive difference in the world. It motivated me to pursue a law career and use my education and experiences to help others affected by the criminal justice system. I want to be a voice for those who have been marginalized or overlooked and to work towards a more just and fair society for all.

As a high school senior, I had a lot of decisions to make about my future. One of the most significant decisions I faced was where to go to college. I applied to various schools, including prominent state universities and smaller liberal arts colleges. But as I weighed my options, I realized that one type of school really stood out to me: the historically black college or university (HBCU). There were a few reasons why I chose to attend an HBCU. First and foremost, I was drawn to the sense of community and belonging I knew I would find there. As a young black woman, I was excited to be surrounded by people who looked like me and shared similar experiences and backgrounds. I knew that an HBCU would provide me with a supportive and welcoming environment where I could thrive. Another reason I chose to attend an HBCU was the sense of history and legacy that these institutions represent. I was inspired by the stories of the pioneers who had fought to create these schools in the face of segregation and discrimination. I wanted to be a part of that legacy and carry it forward into the future. Finally, I chose to attend an HBCU because of these schools' academic opportunities. Many HBCUs have vital programs in a variety of fields, and I was excited to be able to pursue my interests in a supportive and rigorous academic environment. Overall, I am grateful for the opportunity to attend an HBCU. It has been an incredible experience, and I am excited to see what the future holds. I know that my decision to attend an HBCU was the right one for me, and I am confident that it will open up many doors and opportunities in the future.

As a young girl, I had always been an avid sports fan. I loved the excitement of watching basketball players soar through the air, the thrill of a home run in baseball, and the intensity of a touchdown in football. Nevertheless, I had never found a sport I truly felt passionate about playing. That all changed one day when my parents brought home a Wii console and the game "Wii Sports." As soon as I saw the virtual golf course on the screen, I knew I had to try it. I grabbed the controller and took my first swing, feeling the adrenaline rush as the club connected with the ball and sent it flying through the air. I spent hours playing the game, perfecting my swing, and trying to beat my high score. As I got better at the game, I wondered if I might enjoy playing golf in real life. I asked my parents if I could try it, and they agreed to take me to the local driving range. When I stepped up to the tee and swung my club for the first time, I felt the satisfying thud as the ball connected with the clubface. I was hooked. From then on, I became passionate about golf. I started taking lessons and regularly practicing at the driving range. I even joined a local golf team, and I excelled. As I continued to play golf and improve my skills, I became increasingly about the sport. I loved being out on the course, surrounded by the beautiful scenery and the peaceful quiet. I also loved my sense of accomplishment when I hit a great shot or sank a long putt. However, beyond the mental challenge of strategizing my shots and the importance of achievement I felt when I hit a great shot or sank a long putt, I loved the sense of community that golf provided. I made many friends through the sport and enjoyed the camaraderie of being part of a team. Whether practicing with my future teammates or playing a casual round with friends, I always felt a sense of belonging on the golf course. I began to practice more and more, both at the driving range and on the course. I took lessons from the local club pro and even started competing in local tournaments. I was determined to become the best golfer I could be. Over time, my hard work paid off. I started to see my scores improve, and I even started to win a few tournaments. My golf coach took notice of my progress and encouraged me to consider playing golf at the collegiate level. So, I applied to several colleges with strong golf programs and await their decisions. I know it would be a lot of hard work, but I was excited about the opportunity to play golf at the next level. As I head off to college, I am grateful for the journey that has brought me there. I know that golf has helped shape me, and I am determined to continue pursuing my passion for the sport, whether collegiately or intramurally. Golf has become an integral part of my life. It is not just a hobby or a sport to me – it is a way of life. It taught me discipline, focus, and resilience and helped me develop a sense of calm and balance that I carry with me off the course. I look forward to my future and am confident that gold has a place in it.

Halfway through my final year of high school, my history teacher approached me with a proposition. She informed me about a competition for high school students to design and construct prototypes for sustainable energy sources in the local area. She believed I would be interested in collaborating with a few of my classmates on a team for the competition. After some initial hesitation, I ultimately agreed to participate. Working on a team proved to be highly beneficial. We could effectively share ideas and resources and divide the work in a way that made it more manageable. As the competition approached, our team began to experience an increase in pressure, but despite our difficulties, we remained resolute and focused on our goals. We were determined to succeed and showcase the fruits of our labor to the judges. As the day of the competition approached, we all experienced some nerves, but we were also eager to see the results of our prototype. When it was our turn to present, we stood before the judges and confidently presented our design. We extensively rehearsed our presentation and were well-prepared to address any questions the judges may have had. Our hard work ultimately paid off, as our prototype received praise from the judges, and we were awarded first place in the competition. It was a moment of great excitement and pride for all of us as we were proud of our achievement. The experience of participating in the competition and working on a team was enriching. It enabled me to acquire new skills and appreciate the importance of collaboration and diligence. I look forward to applying these skills in my future career as a nurse. The healthcare field greatly benefits from collaboration and diversity for several reasons. Partnership allows healthcare professionals to share knowledge and resources, improving patient care and efficiency. Working together allows healthcare professionals to draw on each other's expertise and experience to develop new treatments and technologies and identify and solve problems. Diversity ensures that the healthcare system is more inclusive and responsive to the needs of all community members. A diverse healthcare workforce reflects the diversity of the population it serves and can provide culturally competent care. Additionally, diversity in the healthcare workforce fosters increased innovation and creativity by bringing new ideas and approaches to the table. I will apply the values of collaboration and diversity to my future work in the healthcare field in various ways. I will prioritize diversity and cultural competence in my career. This will involve learning about my patients' unique needs and cultural backgrounds and adapting my care accordingly. It will also involve advocating for the rights and needs of underserved or marginalized communities and supporting policies and initiatives that promote diversity in the healthcare workforce. In addition to prioritizing diversity, I will also stay up-to-date on the latest research and best practices in the field. By staying informed and continuously learning, I can ensure that I provide the highest quality care to my patients. I am committed to providing the best patient care possible, and collaboration is the key to doing so. Whether catering to ethnically and religiously diverse patients, or sharing expertise between coworkers, working together saves lives.

"Moon Song" by Phoebe Bridgers is a melancholic and reflective track that explores loneliness and yearning. It resonated with my own emotions and experiences at the time of its release, when I was in a relationship where I felt compelled to sacrifice my well-being for my partner. Upon hearing the song, I was moved to tears. The lyrics "You asked to walk me home / But I had to carry you" convey the experience of being in a relationship with a partner who desires to provide care but lacks the emotional capacity to do so. This dynamic results in one partner shouldering the burden of both individuals and feeling a sense of responsibility and burden. These lyrics capture the dynamic of a one-sided relationship in which one partner cannot fulfill their caregiver role. The lines "So I will wait for the next time you want me / Like a dog with a bird at your door" express the narrator's loyalty to the person they are addressing, even though their love is only offered on a conditional basis. The metaphor of "a dog with a bird at your door" suggests subservience and devotion, as well as the one-sided nature of the relationship, with the narrator expressing deep feelings of love and loyalty. At the same time, the other person is indifferent or repelled by these feelings. "Moon Song" was the first time I felt genuinely understood in music. The song is about an emotionally unequal relationship, but its message to me was that of quiet acknowledgment that I am not alone in my feelings.

I distinctly recall the moment when I first developed a love for math. It was as if it occurred yesterday. I was a young student in my third-grade classroom, observing my teacher as they explained how to solve a long-division problem. Initially, I was intimidated by the array of numbers and symbols on the board, feeling uncertain if I would ever comprehend them. However, as my teacher guided us through the problem, something clicked within me, and the numbers and symbols started to make sense. Excitement engulfed me as I worked through the problem on my own. As I aged, my affinity for math persisted, and I began contemplating utilizing my passion for mathematics in my career. Eventually, I discovered the nursing profession and was immediately attracted to using my math skills to assist patients. I look forward to combining my love for mathematics with my desire to help others as a nurse, as I am consistently impressed by how math is utilized in the healthcare field and beyond. Mathematics is a fundamental subject in healthcare for various reasons. Most notably, it performs multiple critical calculations related to patient care. For instance, math is used to compute dosages of medications, measure and monitor vital signs, and interpret laboratory results. Additionally, the healthcare field uses mathematics to analyze and interpret data, such as the results of clinical trials or the efficacy of different treatment options. It is also used to model and forecast outcomes, which can assist healthcare professionals in making informed decisions about patient care. In conclusion, math is a crucial element of healthcare, as it helps professionals provide high-quality patient care and make decisions that significantly influence patient outcomes. Math is a subject that significantly contributes to personal development by facilitating the development of problem-solving skills, logical thinking, and the ability to analyze and interpret data. Through learning mathematics, individuals can approach and solve problems in a structured and analytical manner, which can be advantageous in various situations. Math also allows individuals to think logically and critically, benefiting decision-making and problem-solving. Furthermore, math helps individuals develop their ability to analyze and interpret data using statistical analysis and other mathematical techniques, which can be valuable in numerous fields. Engaging in mathematics can also improve confidence and self-esteem, mainly when solving complex problems or completing challenging math tasks. In conclusion, mathematics helps individuals better understand the world around them by providing a framework for comprehending patterns and relationships. I am thankful to have discovered my passion for math during that fateful third-grade day, and I am grateful for its impact on my personal and professional development. I hope to honor my juvenile self by finding excitement in the challenges to come. Regardless of what beast of a problem I may face in the future, the skills I have learned from mathematics will prove to be a mighty sword.

Stethoscopes, shears, and syringes were packed into the doctor's playset, a well-loved and utilized bag of miracle cures. My little brother was my first patient, and I experienced much joy in clumsily applying disinfectant and bandaids to his scrapes and bruises. However, I was not prepared to cure him when he suffered many significant breaks in his arm. I was in awe of the doctors and nurses who dutifully utilized the accurate versions of my playset parts to help repair his bones. After observing my mother soothe and heal her son with her nursing expertise, I slowly witnessed my career choice surfacing before my eyes. As a registered nurse and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, my mother has spent the past seventeen years teaching me that multifaceted healthcare includes physical, mental, and spiritual components. She instilled in me a desire to help others. In large part because of her influence, I decided to pursue nursing. Before I committed to the career path, I wanted to get a clear grasp on the healthcare world, so I decided to join my local firehouse as an EMT. My journey to becoming an EMT has been monumental in the way I view the field of healthcare. Until I started riding in the ambulance, I saw healthcare as purely intellectual; when I thought of a competent caregiver, I did not include physical strength and stamina in my criteria. However, I soon recognized how necessary physical fitness was in healthcare when I had to perform CPR for the first time. As I counted the compressions, I struggled to keep up with the recommended pace. I have always been petite, so the job's physical demands had been a challenge for me from the start. Despite my best efforts, I needed help to get the rhythm right. I could feel the sweat dripping down her forehead and the muscles in my arms burning with exhaustion. Just when I thought she couldn't go on any longer, one of the senior EMTs stepped in to assist me. He could keep the patient's heart beating until further help could be secured. When the patient was stabilized, I couldn't help but feel a sense of relief wash over me. I had done it - I had helped save a life. But as the adrenaline wore off, I could not shake the feeling I had let myself down. I had always wanted to work in healthcare but never realized how physically demanding the job would be. Soon enough, I made a decision. I was going to do whatever it took to meet the physical requirements of the job. I began lifting weights and running every day, determined to become stronger and more capable. Slowly but surely, my hard work paid off. I became more confident in her ability to handle the job's physical demands, and soon enough, I could quickly assist my teammates. Ultimately, I learned that anything worth doing was worth working for. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve my community and make a difference in the lives of others, and I know that I have the strength and determination to do it. Due in large part to my experience as an EMT, I feel prepared to take my education to the next level and earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. I intend to continue my education, earning a Doctor of Nursing Practice or a Juris Doctor degree to support my chosen patient population and tangibly help my community using my skillset. Regardless of my path, I look forward to assisting and healing members of my community and beyond.

Stethoscopes, shears, and syringes were packed into the doctor's playset, a well-loved and utilized bag of miracle cures. My little brother was my first patient, and I experienced much joy in clumsily applying disinfectant and bandaids to his scrapes and bruises. After reading an adolescent biology text, I pretended to carefully excise injured tissue from his leg with my plastic scalpel. However, I was not prepared to cure him when he suffered three significant breaks in his arm and foot. During two surgeries, titanium rods and screws were implanted in his tiny body. I was in awe of the doctors and nurses who dutifully utilized the accurate versions of my playset parts to help repair his bones. After observing my mother soothe and heal her son with her nursing expertise, I slowly witnessed my career choice surfacing before my eyes. As a registered nurse and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, my mother has spent the past seventeen years teaching me that multifaceted healthcare includes physical, mental, and spiritual components. She instilled in me a desire to help others. I decided to start my journey in Emergency Medical Services at a local training program for teenagers who want to learn about the medical field. After earning CPR / AED, First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens certifications, Covid 19 interrupted my search for internships and further courses. To stay connected with hospitals, I started crocheting hats for babies in local hospitals and lived vicariously through my mother's horror stories of COVID-19. These stories only strengthened my conviction to become a nurse. Once school resumed, I joined my local firehouse as an EMT, rode in an ambulance, and responded to emergency calls. I also enrolled in a volunteer program in a local hospital's pediatric unit, where I interacted with and supported families experiencing the trauma of having a sick child. These experiences also solidified my passion for working at the bedside. Because nursing is a broad field with many opportunities to specialize, I wanted to explore different concentrations further to make an informed decision in college and beyond. I therefore applied and was admitted to a couple of summer programs, including a career development internship with Kaiser Permanente. The Kaiser Permanente program allowed me to meet with dozens of practicing professionals, from physical therapists to pediatricians, to ophthalmologists. At this juncture, I realized that I had a gap in my knowledge of psychology, so I secured an internship with a Johns Hopkins-backed med-psych company focusing on pediatric drug addiction and mental health. There, I immersed myself in the practicalities of research, recruited subjects for studies, and created communication tools to better educate patients. I feel prepared to pursue my Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree at this junction. I intend to earn a Doctor of Nursing Practice or a Juris Doctor degree to support my chosen patient population and tangibly help my community using my skillset. Regardless of my path, I look forward to assisting and healing members of my community and beyond.

After a long day at school, I was ready to relax and unwind with my friends. We had planned to meet at our favorite cafe for a few drinks and some good laughs. As I walked in, I could not help but feel a sense of excitement at letting go of the stress of the day and enjoying some good company. As I approached our table, I saw my friend Sarah already there, nursing a latte and staring into space. I could not help but feel a twinge of concern at her looking so down. I knew she had been having a tough time lately, and I immediately felt guilty for not noticing her mood sooner. I walked over to her and sat down, trying to think of something funny to say to lift her spirits. However, as I opened my mouth to speak, I realized that a joke might not be the best approach in this situation. So, I decided to go with a tried and true method: I pulled out my phone and showed her a picture of my cat's recent captivatingly ridiculous haircut. She could not believe her eyes as I stared at my poor, unfortunate cat. It was like the groomer had taken a lawn mower to his fur and hacked away at it without any sense of style or purpose. My kitten's once sleek and fluffy coat was now a patchwork quilt of irregular, uneven patches. It was clear that the groomer had no idea what they were doing, and my poor cat was left looking like a hot mess. Sarah's look of shock and mild horror soon broke into laughter. "What in the world is that?" she asked, still chuckling. "It is my cat's new haircut," I replied with a straight face. "I think it brings out his eyes." Sarah could not stop laughing, and I could not help but join in. We spent the rest of the night cracking jokes and laughing until our sides hurt. It was the perfect way to forget about our troubles and enjoy each other's company. As we sipped our coffees, I could not help but feel grateful for the power of laughter and friendship. Sometimes, all it takes is a silly joke or a ridiculous cat haircut to turn a tough day into a great one. Moreover, with friends like Sarah by my side, I knew I could always count on a good laugh and a smile to brighten my day.

Living with bipolar II can be a challenging and sometimes overwhelming experience. It has required a lot of hard work, self-reflection, and support from others to manage my symptoms and maintain my overall well-being. One of the most important things I have learned in my journey with bipolar II is the importance of self-care. This includes taking care of my physical health through regular exercise and a healthy diet and finding ways to manage stress and reduce triggers for my mood symptoms. I have also found it helpful to practice mindfulness and engage in activities that bring me joy and relaxation, such as art, music, and spending time in nature. In addition to self-care, seeking support from others has also been crucial in my journey with bipolar II. This includes help from family, friends, and professionals such as therapists and psychiatrists. I have found it helpful to have a strong support network of people who understand my condition and can offer guidance and encouragement when needed. One of the biggest challenges I have faced in managing my bipolar II is learning to recognize and respond to the early warning signs of an impending mood episode. This includes keeping track of my moods and behaviors and being aware of any changes that may indicate an upcoming episode. By being proactive and addressing these warning signs, I have prevented many mood episodes from escalating into full-blown attacks. Managing bipolar II requires a lot of hard work and self-reflection, but it is possible to live a fulfilling and meaningful life with this condition. By taking care of myself, seeking support from others, and being proactive in managing my symptoms, I have overcome many challenges with living with bipolar II. My experience with bipolar II has significantly impacted my decision to become a nurse. While living with this condition has often been challenging and overwhelming, it has taught me a great deal about resilience, determination, and the importance of self-care. As someone who has struggled with mental health issues, I know firsthand how crucial it is to have access to knowledgeable and compassionate healthcare professionals who can provide guidance and support. I believe that nurses play a crucial role in providing this kind of care, and I want to make a positive difference in the lives of others by providing the same level of support and understanding that I have received. Through my journey to recovery, I have learned that it is essential to prioritize my well-being to manage my symptoms and maintain my overall health. As a nurse, I believe I can use my experience with self-care to help others prioritize their well-being and learn the importance of taking care of themselves. My experience with bipolar II has also helped me understand the importance of addressing mental health needs comprehensively and holistically. I have learned that mental health is just as important as physical health and that it is crucial to address both to achieve overall well-being. As a nurse, I can use this understanding to help others address their mental health needs and live fulfilling and meaningful lives. Overall, my experience with bipolar II has strengthened my conviction to become a nurse by showing me the importance of having a supportive and understanding healthcare team, the value of self-care and self-advocacy, and the need to address mental health comprehensively and holistically. I believe that by becoming a nurse, I can make a positive difference in the lives of others and contribute to improving the overall mental health of our society.

Having integrity means being true to oneself and upholding moral and ethical principles. It means being honest, reliable, and trustworthy and behaving in a way that is consistent with one's values and beliefs. To me, having integrity means looking at myself in the mirror and being proud of the person I see. It means holding myself accountable for my actions and being willing to take responsibility for any mistakes I may have made. It also means being true to my word and following through on my commitments, no matter how difficult they may be. In today's world, succumbing to the pressure to cut corners or compromise one's values to get ahead can be easy. Having integrity is essential to living a fulfilling and meaningful life. It is a quality that earns respect and trust of others, and it is something that I strive to embody in all aspects of my life. I strive to be honest and truthful, even when it may be difficult or uncomfortable. For instance, if I make a mistake or do something wrong, I try to own up to it and take responsibility for my actions. I believe that honesty is a cornerstone of any healthy relationship, and it is essential to be truthful with others to build trust and respect. In addition, I do my best to be reliable and follow through on my commitments. If I say I will do something, I do everything I can to complete it to the best of my ability. This includes showing up on time for appointments, meeting deadlines, and being there for others when they need my support. Having integrity also means respecting and being considerate of others. This means treating others with kindness and fairness, even when we may disagree. It also means being open to hearing different perspectives and listening to others' ideas and opinions. Integrity is essential for building solid relationships and living a fulfilling and meaningful life. It requires being true to oneself and upholding moral and ethical principles, a quality I strive to embody in all aspects of my life.

As a child, I never could have imagined the heartache and turmoil I would experience after being taken from home and placed into the foster care system. At just eight years old, I have ripped away from everything I knew and loved, and I was left feeling scared, alone, and completely lost. Every day was a struggle as I bounced from one foster home to another, never feeling truly welcomed or accepted. I missed my parents and my old life so much that it physically hurt, and I struggled to form close relationships with my new caregivers. I often felt misunderstood and isolated, and it was difficult for me to trust anyone. Despite my challenges, I tried to remain strong and make the most of my situation. I excelled in school and made a few close friends, but it was never easy. I couldn't shake the feelings of loneliness and homesickness that lingered inside me, and I couldn't help but wonder what my life would have been like if I had never been taken from my parents. As I approached 18, my fears and doubts reached a new level. I knew that I would soon be forced to leave the foster care system and make it on my own, and I wasn't sure if I was ready for that. I had no family to turn to and no safety net to fall back on, and I was terrified of failing or ending up alone. Despite this, I stay positive and believe in myself. I have worked hard in school and focused on my goals, hoping that one day I could create a life for myself that was filled with love and happiness. I knew that it wouldn't be easy, but I was determined to do whatever it took to overcome the obstacles that stood in my way. My experience in foster care has significantly impacted my outlook on life and my career goals as a nurse. Firstly, it has taught me the importance of resilience and determination. Growing up in the foster care system was often challenging, and there were many times when I wanted to give up. But I learned to stay strong and keep working towards my goals, even when things seemed impossible. This has helped me to develop a strong sense of determination and a belief in my abilities, which will be invaluable as I pursue my career as a nurse. Secondly, my experience in foster care has made me appreciate the value of community and support. While in the system, I was fortunate to have a network of friends, family, and mentors who believed in me and offered guidance and encouragement when I needed it. This support has been invaluable in helping me to overcome challenges and stay motivated, and it has taught me the importance of having a solid support system to achieve success. Finally, my experience in foster care has shaped my career goals as a nurse by driving me to want to make a positive impact on the lives of others. Growing up in the system, I saw firsthand the struggles and challenges many people face, making me want to do everything I could to help them. As a nurse, I hope to provide care and support to those in need and make a real difference in their lives. My experience in foster care has inspired me to pursue a career that allows me to give back and positively impact the world.

As a future nurse, I am passionate about ensuring everyone has access to high-quality medical care, regardless of their background or circumstances. I am committed to doing everything possible to help everyone live a happy, healthy life. One of the things I love most about healthcare is the opportunity it provides to make a positive impact on people's lives. Whether it's through giving comfort and support to patients or helping to solve complex medical problems, I find great fulfillment in nursing. I am also drawn to the constantly evolving nature of healthcare. New technologies, treatments, and approaches are being developed, and I am excited to be a part of this dynamic and constantly-changing field. By staying up-to-date on the latest developments in nursing, I can provide the best possible care to my patients and make a real difference in their lives. My passion for healthcare stems from a deep desire to make a difference and help others. I am grateful to be able to pursue this passion through my studies and career. I have always been resilient and determined, and these qualities will serve me well as I navigate the challenges that will come my way. When faced with obstacles, I can stay focused and keep working towards my goals, even when things get complicated. I am also adaptable, so I can learn from my mistakes and adjust my approach as needed. This allows me to improve continually and grow. I also have a robust support system. I have a network of friends, family, and mentors who believe in me and are there to offer guidance and encouragement when I need it. This support has been invaluable in helping me to overcome challenges and stay motivated. My resilience, determination, adaptability, and support will enable me to overcome any obstacles that come my way. I am confident in my ability to succeed, no matter my challenges. I can give back to those less fortunate than myself in many ways, and I am committed to finding and pursuing as many opportunities as possible. Every person has something valuable to offer, and by volunteering our time and skills, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. When volunteering my time and talents, I am open to many opportunities. Whether providing healthcare services, helping with community development projects, or simply offering a listening ear and support to those in need, I believe every little bit can make a big difference. I am particularly interested in working with organizations that serve disadvantaged communities. In the future, I also hope to use my education and skills to make a more long-term impact on underprivileged communities. This could involve working for a non-profit organization that serves marginalized populations or starting my organization to address a specific need or issue in the community. I am committed to giving back to those less fortunate than myself in any way that I can. Whether through volunteering my time and skills or using my education and resources to make a more lasting impact, I believe it is essential to give back to our communities and help those in need.

There are many reasons why it is essential to work to understand the nature of our universe better. Here are a few: Understanding the universe can help us make predictions: By understanding the laws that govern the universe's behavior, we can predict how it will evolve. This can help us plan for the future and make informed decisions about how we should live. Understanding the universe can help us understand our place in it: By understanding the nature of the universe, we can better understand our business in it and how we fit into the larger scheme of things. This can help us to have a sense of purpose and can give us a greater appreciation for the world around us. The holographic principle is a theoretical idea in physics that suggests that the information in a region of space can be represented on the surface that encloses it. This idea is based on the concept of holograms, which are three-dimensional images created by projecting laser light onto a flat surface. According to the holographic principle, the information contained within a region of space is encoded on the surface surrounding it, much like how information is encoded on a holographic film. This concept can revolutionize our understanding of the universe and our place within it, as it allows for the possibility of making predictions about the behavior of matter and energy within a given region of space based on the information contained on its boundary. It has implications for many fields, including quantum gravity, black holes, and the nature of space and time. One way scientists could use the holographic principle is to better understand the universe by providing a framework for understanding the behavior of black holes. According to the principle, the information contained within a black hole can be thought of as encoded on the event horizon, the boundary of the black hole. This suggests that the interior of a black hole may not be as mysterious and unknowable as previously thought and that it may be possible to understand the behavior of black holes by studying their event horizons. Another potential application of the holographic principle is in the field of quantum gravity. Currently, our understanding of the fundamental nature of gravity is incomplete, and many scientists believe that a theory of quantum gravity is needed to fully understand the universe's behavior at tiny scales. The holographic principle suggests that the information contained within a region of space can be encoded on the boundary of that region, which provides a new way of understanding the behavior of gravity at the quantum level. In addition to these applications, the holographic principle also has implications for our understanding of the nature of space and time. Many scientists believe that the concept of space and time, as we currently understand it, approximates more fundamental reality and that the holographic principle could provide insight into this deeper level of existence. Overall, the holographic principle is a promising and exciting concept that has the potential to revolutionize our understanding of the universe. While much work remains to be done to understand and develop the implications of this principle fully, it is clear that it can offer new insights and perspectives on a wide range of fundamental questions in physics and beyond.

As a person living with Polymyalgia rheumatica, my experience has significantly shaped who I am today. Polymyalgia rheumatica is a chronic autoimmune disorder affecting muscles and joints, causing widespread pain and stiffness. It can be challenging to live with, but I have learned to adapt and overcome the obstacles it presents. My condition has been challenging but has taught me valuable lessons about perseverance and resilience. The chronic pain and stiffness that come with this illness can be overwhelming sometimes, but I have learned to push through and continue pursuing my goals and aspirations despite these challenges. This has taught me the importance of persevering and not giving up, even when the going gets tough. My experience with Polymyalgia rheumatica has also strengthened my determination to succeed and pursue my dreams, no matter what obstacles come my way. It has taught me that overcoming even the most challenging circumstances and achieving my goals with hard work and determination is possible. These lessons have been invaluable in my personal and professional life. I believe they will serve me well as I pursue my aspirations and positively impact the world. Living with my condition has also taught me the importance of self-care and self-compassion. The chronic pain and fatigue caused by the disease can be physically and emotionally exhausting. I must take care of myself and prioritize my physical and emotional well-being. This has taught me the value of self-compassion and the importance of being kind to myself, even when I struggle. I have learned that taking breaks and rest when I need to is okay and that it is essential to nurture my body and mind through self-care practices such as exercise, proper nutrition, and activities that bring me joy and relaxation. Additionally, I have learned to be more forgiving when I struggle and recognize that having good and bad days is normal. This self-compassion has been instrumental in helping me to cope with the challenges of Polymyalgia rheumatica and maintain a positive outlook even when things are difficult. Overall, my experience with my illness has taught me the importance of self-care and self-compassion, and these lessons will serve me well in all aspects of my life. Polymyalgia rheumatica has taught me the value of community and support. The condition can be isolating, making it easy to feel alone and misunderstood, especially when symptoms are severe or unmanageable. However, I have been fortunate to have a supportive network of friends and family who have been there for me through difficult times. They have listened to me, provided comfort and encouragement, and helped me to feel less alone in my struggles. This has taught me the importance of community and the value of having people who understand and support me. I have learned that it is essential to surround myself with positive and supportive individuals who can provide a sense of belonging and a shoulder to lean on when things are tough. I have also learned to be more open and vulnerable with others, as sharing my struggles with others has been instrumental in helping me to cope with the challenges of my condition. Overall, my experience with my illness has taught me the importance of community and support. I believe these lessons will serve me well in all aspects of my life. My experience living with Polymyalgia rheumatica has shaped my life. It has taught me the value of perseverance, self-care, and community. While challenging, it has also brought valuable lessons and growth. I am grateful for the experiences and insights it has given me.

Bipolar II disorder is a mental health condition characterized by episodes of hypomania and depression. Living with this condition has influenced my beliefs, relationships, and career path in myriad ways. My condition has influenced my belief in self-care, therapy, and support from loved ones. I have learned that paying attention to my moods, thoughts, and behaviors is crucial to managing my symptoms and preventing myself from slipping into a hypomanic or depressed state. To take care of myself physically and emotionally, I engage in regular exercise and proper nutrition and participate in activities that bring me joy and fulfillment. I have also found that a combination of therapy and medication has been instrumental in helping me manage my symptoms and improve my overall quality of life. Through treatment, I have gained a deeper understanding of my condition and learned coping strategies that have enabled me to regulate my moods and emotions better. Medication has helped balance my brain chemistry and reduce the severity and frequency of my hypomanic and depressive episodes. I have also learned the importance of support from loved ones, as it can be challenging to navigate the ups and downs of Bipolar. Having access to the support and understanding of friends and family has been invaluable in helping me cope with the challenges of my condition. I have also learned the importance of being open and honest with my loved ones about my struggles, as keeping my illness a secret can lead to feelings of isolation and make it harder to manage my symptoms. Secondly, my condition has influenced my relationships, emphasizing the importance of honest communication, patience, and adaptability. Open and honest communication has been crucial in my relationships, as Bipolar II can make it difficult to regulate my moods and emotions. By being transparent with my loved ones about my illness and how it affects me, they have understood my behaviors and attitudes better and provided support and guidance when needed. Bipolar has also challenged me to be more patient and understanding with others, as it can make me irritable and easily frustrated. I have had to work on managing these emotions, not taking my anger and frustration out on the people I care about, and being more understanding and empathetic toward others struggling with mental health challenges. Additionally, my experience with Bipolar II has made me more resilient and adaptable in my relationships. My disorder can be unpredictable, and I have had to learn to roll with the punches and adapt to changes in my mood and energy levels. This has made me more flexible and open-minded in my relationships and has enabled me to navigate the ups and downs of being in a relationship more effectively. Lastly, my condition has strengthened my conviction to be a nurse. Bipolar II has given me a unique perspective on the importance of mental health and healthcare professionals' role in supporting and advocating for those who struggle with mental illness. As someone who has lived with bipolar II for much of my life, I have firsthand experience with the challenges and struggles of managing a mental health condition. I have also seen firsthand the transformative power of proper treatment and care, which has only strengthened my conviction to become a nurse and make a positive impact on the lives of others. My mental health journey has given me a deep understanding of the importance of holistic care. While physical health is undoubtedly essential, mental health is just as vital to overall well-being and quality of life. As a nurse, I want to be able to provide support and care not just for physical ailments but for mental health concerns as well. I understand the complex interplay between physical and psychological health, and I want to help patients navigate these connections and find the care and support they need. Managing a mental health condition can be isolating and challenging, and I have learned the value of having someone to turn to for help and understanding. As a nurse, I hope to be that person for others, offering a listening ear and a compassionate heart to those struggling. In conclusion, having bipolar II has had a significant impact on my life and my career aspirations. My condition has influenced my belief in self-care, therapy, and support from loved ones, as well as my relationships, by emphasizing the importance of honest communication, patience, and adaptability. Additionally, my experience with bipolar II has strengthened my conviction to be a nurse and make a positive impact on the lives of others. My condition has given me a unique perspective on the importance of mental health and healthcare professionals' role in supporting and advocating for those who struggle with mental illness. It has also deepened my understanding of the importance of holistic care and developed my empathy and compassion. I am confident that my experiences and qualities and my passion for healthcare will enable me to make a meaningful difference as a nurse.

I am interested in studying artificial intelligence and machine learning. I have always been fascinated by building intelligent systems that can process and analyze data, learn from experience, and make decisions based on that knowledge. One problem I hope to solve through my future education and career in tech is the issue of bias and discrimination in machine learning systems. Machine learning algorithms are often trained on data sets that reflect the biases and stereotypes of the people who created them. This can lead to biased and unfair outcomes, such as denying loans or job opportunities to specific groups of people. I believe that by studying artificial intelligence and machine learning, I can learn how to design and build fair and unbiased algorithms. This will require careful consideration of the data sets used to train the algorithms and the development of techniques and methods that can correct for biases and stereotypes in the data. Additionally, I want to explore the ethical implications of artificial intelligence and machine learning. As these technologies become more advanced and prevalent, it is essential to consider the potential consequences of their use and to develop ethical frameworks and guidelines for their deployment. Overall, my passion for artificial intelligence and machine learning stems from a desire to build intelligent systems that are fair, unbiased, and ethically responsible. I believe that by studying these technologies, I can make a meaningful contribution to the field and help address some of the challenges and concerns arising from developing and using machine learning systems.

Music is a powerful form of art that can inspire and move people. As a music lover, I have always been inspired by its power to move and connect with people. I have experienced music's emotional and creative effects firsthand, and I want to use it to inspire others. By sharing it with them and introducing them to new and different types of music, I can broaden their musical horizons and discover new sources of inspiration. Music can bring about emotions and feelings that words alone cannot express, and it has always been a source of inspiration and a way for me to connect with my feelings. When I listen to music, I feel it in my soul. It has the power to transport me to different places and times. It can make me feel happy, sad, or even angry, depending on the music I listen to. This emotional connection to music inspires me and motivates me to keep listening. In addition, listening to a particularly moving or powerful piece of music often sparks ideas and creativity in my mind. I find myself drawn to melodies and rhythms, and I am inspired to create my art. Furthermore, music can bring people together and create a sense of community. I have been to concerts and music festivals where I have felt a strong sense of community and connection with others; all brought together by our love of music. Additionally, I want to use music to unite people by organizing events and gatherings where they can listen to and enjoy music. Whether a small concert in a park or a large music festival, these events can help to foster a sense of connection and community among attendees. Music can be a unifying force, bringing people from different backgrounds and walks of life together to share in the experience of listening to and enjoying it. Music is a powerful force that can inspire and move people. It can connect us with our emotions, spark creativity, and unite people. Music is a constant source of inspiration and motivation, and I will always be grateful for its role in my life. In conclusion, I want to use music to inspire others and help them to connect with their emotions, creativity, and sense of community. By sharing my love of music with others, I can help to create a positive impact and inspire them in their own lives.

As a future nurse, I know the value of going above and beyond in all areas of life. Applying yourself to activities is crucial for success; because of my drive, I am confident in realizing my vision for my future. In school, I was Head of Hospital Outreach of my school's knitting and crochet club and worked to build a solid and successful network of hospitals that accept our donations of baby hats and blankets. In my current job, I have taken on additional responsibilities, such as mentoring and training new employees, and I have worked to improve processes and efficiency within my department. In addition, I volunteer with several organizations, including my local fire department and hospitals. I have also participated in several fundraising events, such as charity runs and bake sales, to support important causes. I have gone above and beyond in my relationships by being a supportive and caring friend, partner, and family member. I have been there for the people in my life when they need me, whether by listening to their problems, offering advice, or simply being a shoulder to lean on. I intend to apply myself to my future endeavors in healthcare, nursing, and beyond. One goal of mine is to become a certified nurse practitioner. A nurse practitioner is a registered nurse with advanced education and training in a specific area of nursing, such as pediatrics or gerontology. With this degree, one can prescribe medicine and own a medical practice. I look forward to earning this degree and providing even better care to my patients. In addition, I plan to become a leader in the nursing field. I have the skills and abilities to impact the nursing profession positively, and I hope to use my future knowledge and experience to help improve the quality of care provided to patients. This could include working on initiatives to improve patient safety, developing new nursing programs, or advocating for the rights and needs of nurses. Regardless of the goal, I look forward to working with my peers to improve the world of healthcare for patients and practitioners alike. I hope to achieve personal and professional growth in my nursing career. I am committed to continuing my education and training and staying up-to-date on the latest developments in nursing and healthcare. I also hope to develop my leadership and management skills and take on new challenges and responsibilities within the nursing profession

As a nursing major interested in artificial intelligence, I am endlessly fascinated by the applications of AI in healthcare. With the emergence of software like ChatGBT, it is clear that our technology is advancing; it seems logical that we use this technological advancement to better the quality of life for people around the globe. With the development of healthcare-specific programs and artificial intelligence, we will drastically and irreparably improve the world of healthcare, ushering in a new golden age of health and wellness worldwide. Shortly, healthcare providers will be able to analyze large amounts of data, such as medical images and patient records, to identify patterns and make more accurate diagnoses. This can help medical teams identify diseases earlier, leading to more effective treatment and better patient outcomes. AI can help nurses identify which treatments are most effective for different conditions. This can help doctors to tailor treatment plans to individual patients, leading to more personalized and effective care. Furthermore, by automating routine tasks, such as data entry and analysis, AI can help doctors and nurses to spend more time with patients, providing better care and improving patient satisfaction. AI can improve the world of medicine significantly. By helping providers diagnose diseases more accurately and quickly, make more informed treatment decisions, and reduce the workload of healthcare professionals, AI can lead to better outcomes and improved healthcare for patients. I look forward to seeing the implementation of this technology in the nursing world and beyond. Technology is evolving; it stands to reason that healthcare becomes with it.

I value my ability to adapt to new situations because it is a crucial skill in today's world. In a world that is constantly changing, being able to adapt to new conditions is essential for success. Adaptability will allow me to overcome challenges and take advantage of possible opportunities. One of the reasons that I value my ability to adapt is because it has helped me to excel academically. I have quickly learned new subjects in school and adjusted to new teaching styles and classroom environments. This has allowed me to pursue my interests and achieve my goals without being held back by my lack of prior knowledge or experience. Therefore, in the future, I will be confident in my ability to quickly learn new subjects and adjust to new teaching styles and classroom environments, which will help me achieve my academic goals. I have made new friends and formed meaningful connections with people from different backgrounds and cultures. This has helped me learn and grow as an individual and has enriched my life countless times. For example, I can connect more easily when traveling abroad with people from different backgrounds. This can help foster understanding and respect and lead to more meaningful and enriching relationships. Furthermore, my ability to adapt will be precious in my career. As a future nurse, I know adaptability is crucial in effectively responding to the changing needs of patients and the healthcare industry. In the fast-paced environment of a hospital or healthcare facility, a patient's condition can change quickly, and nurses must be able to adapt to these changes to provide the best possible care. If a patient's heart rate suddenly drops, a nurse must be able to quickly and calmly respond, adjusting the patient's treatment plan as needed. In addition, every patient is unique, with their individual needs and preferences, and nurses must be able to adapt their approach to each individual to provide the best possible care. For example, nurses may need to adapt their communication style to better connect with a hard-of-hearing patient or adjust their treatment plan to accommodate their cultural or religious beliefs. I am confident that adaptability will aid me in success in my future professional and personal ventures. My ability to change to reach a challenge has helped me excel academically, form meaningful connections, and prepare for my future, but I look forward to more hurdles to conquer.

Over the past year, I have worked to make peace with the end of a mentally abusive relationship. He was my first boyfriend, who I thought was my first love. We dated for a year and a half, and over the tail end of the relationship, things started to take a turn for the worst. He became increasingly manipulative and demanding, to the point where refusing him would result in days of guilt-tripping. After every episode, I would promise myself that I would "go with it" next time, but when the next time arose, I always would try to fight to preserve myself. Healing from this relationship has been a complex and painful process. I try to remember that I am not alone and have people to talk to who understands me. A big mental hurdle was realizing that the abuse I faced was not my fault. I tried to convince myself that if I just "went with it" like I tried to, nothing terrible would happen. Still, the treatment I faced was a form of manipulation and control; the only person responsible was the perpetrator. I have been working to realize that I didn't deserve the treatment I received despite what he made me believe. I learned to seek support from friends, family, and a therapist. Part of his manipulation was convincing me that having outside friends was a form of betrayal to him. Upon reflection, it is clear that he was fully aware of his wrongdoings and was hoping that I would never be the wiser. I have found it helpful to talk to someone about my experiences and receive guidance and support as you work through my feelings. My therapist has also helped me develop coping skills and strategies for moving forward healthily. Though many things have changed about me and how I conduct myself, I am still the same person. I love deeply and quickly and find the best in everyone close to me. I am outspoken and firey, and I am incredibly thankful that I could get out of that relationship before he could snuff my fire out. Coming to peace with the end of a mentally abusive relationship was a complex process; I learned to recognize that the abuse was not my fault, to seek support, and to value myself and my worth. With time and support, I began to heal and move on healthily. I hope to continue this journey of healing and be a source of support and comfort for other survivors in the future.

I have always loved working with my hands. I enjoyed creating and building things, and welding seemed the perfect way to turn this passion into a career. I was also drawn to the versatility of welding, as it is a skill that can be applied in many different industries, from construction to manufacturing to repair and maintenance. In addition, I was drawn to the opportunity to learn a valuable and in-demand skill. I knew welders are highly sought after in many different industries, and I saw it as a chance to build a stable and rewarding career. I also appreciated the challenge of welding, as it requires a high level of precision and attention to detail. However, one of the most important factors that guided me toward a career in welding was the support and encouragement of my family and friends. Many of them had seen my love for working with my hands and suggested that I consider welding a career. Upon looking into the profession, I gained a newfound appreciation for metal workers everywhere. Welders are essential in today's society because they help build the infrastructure we rely on daily. They are involved in constructing bridges, buildings, and other structures, and their skills are crucial for ensuring that these structures are solid and safe. Without welders, it would be impossible to build the roads, highways, and skyscrapers that are the backbone of our modern society. In addition, they are crucial in the manufacturing industry. Welding is used in producing cars, airplanes, and many other products and is an integral part of the manufacturing process. Welders help to ensure that these products are of high quality and can withstand the demands of everyday use. Welders are also vital in maintaining and repairing a wide range of equipment and machinery. Welding is often used to repair leaks, cracks, and other damage, and it is an essential skill for ensuring that equipment remains in good working order. Without welders, many machines and devices we rely on in our daily lives would quickly break down and become unusable. Through my passion for building and creating, the opportunity to learn a valuable skill, and the support of my loved ones, I found a love for welding. I am grateful for the factors that guided me toward this career. I am excited to continue learning and growing to be a fundamental part of industrial society, like all welders before me.

One time I displayed kindness, positivity, and hard work while working through an obstacle in my life was when I was preparing for a significant IB Biology exam. I had been studying for months, feeling overwhelmed and stressed out. However, despite my challenges, I remained determined to do well on the exam. I knew many of my classmates were feeling overwhelmed and stressed out, just like I was, and I wanted to be there for them. So, I tried to listen to them when they needed to talk and offered them encouragement and advice when they struggled. If I had extra study materials or notes that would be helpful to them, I suggested sharing them. If I understood a particular concept or topic well, I would explain it to my classmates or help them work through any difficulties. I tried to be upbeat around my classmates, even when stressed and anxious. I kept a smile and tried to maintain a positive attitude. I tried to be understanding and compassionate towards my classmates, and I avoided criticizing or judging them for any mistakes or shortcomings they might have had. In addition to seeking support and being kind to others, I also worked hard to overcome my obstacles. I made a study schedule and stuck to it, even when I was tired or discouraged. I spent hours each day reviewing my notes, practicing problems, and reviewing the material, and I did my best to stay focused and on track. I knew that there were specific topics or concepts that I was struggling with, and I was determined to overcome those challenges. So, I sought tutoring or study groups to provide additional support and guidance. I also pursued other study materials, such as books or online resources, to help me better understand the material. I kept my notes and materials organized and developed a study plan to help me cover all of the necessary material systematically and efficiently. I also tried to eliminate distractions and stay focused on my studies, and I did my best to stay on track and avoid procrastination. My determination, kindness, and hard work helped me overcome my challenges. I earned a high score on the exam and learned a lot about myself and my abilities in the process. I am proud of the effort that I put in, and it helped me to grow and develop as a person.

As a member of my community, the country, and the world, there are many changes that I would like to see. I would like to see a greater emphasis on sustainability and environmental protection in my community. We must take better care of our community's natural resources and reduce our environmental impact. To help make this happen, I try to act locally by participating in community clean-up events, supporting local businesses committed to sustainability, and promoting environmentally-friendly practices in my own life. I want to see a greater emphasis on social justice and equality at the national level. I believe that it is essential that all members of society have access to the opportunities and resources they need to succeed, regardless of their background or circumstances. To help make this happen, I try to act locally by supporting organizations and initiatives that promote social justice and equality and by advocating for policies and practices that can help to level the playing field for all members of society. Finally, on the global level, I would like to see a greater emphasis on international cooperation and diplomacy. I believe that it is essential for nations to work together to address common challenges and to promote peace and stability around the world. To help make this happen, I try to act locally by supporting organizations that promote international cooperation and understanding and by advocating for policies that can help to build bridges between nations and communities. Overall, there are many changes that I would like to see in my community, the country, and the world. By acting locally and supporting organizations and initiatives that align with my values, I believe I can help make a positive difference and contribute to realizing these changes.

Stethoscopes, shears, and syringes were packed into the doctor's playset, a well-loved and utilized bag of miracle cures. My little brother was my first patient, and I experienced much joy in clumsily applying disinfectant and bandaids to his scrapes and bruises. After reading an adolescent biology text, I pretended to carefully excise injured tissue from his leg with my plastic scalpel. However, I was not prepared to cure him when he suffered three significant breaks in his arm and foot. During two surgeries, titanium rods and screws were implanted in his tiny body. I was in awe of the doctors and nurses who dutifully utilized the accurate versions of my playset parts to help repair his bones. After observing my mother soothe and heal her son with her nursing expertise, I slowly witnessed my career choice surfacing before my eyes. As a registered nurse and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, my mother has spent the past seventeen years teaching me that multifaceted healthcare includes medical, mental, and spiritual components. She instilled in me a desire to help others. I decided to start my journey in Emergency Medical Services at a local training program for teenagers who want to learn about the medical field. After earning CPR / AED, First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens certifications, Covid 19 interrupted my search for internships and further courses. To stay connected with hospitals, I started crocheting hats for babies in local hospitals and lived vicariously through my mother's horror stories of COVID-19. These stories only strengthened my conviction to become a nurse. Once school resumed, I joined my local firehouse as an EMT, rode in an ambulance, and responded to emergency calls. I also enrolled in a volunteer program in a local hospital's pediatric unit, where I interacted with and supported families experiencing the trauma of having a sick child. These experiences also solidified my passion for working at the bedside. Because nursing is a broad field with so many opportunities to specialize, I wanted to explore different concentrations further to make an informed decision in college and beyond. I therefore applied and was admitted to an oncology program in the FDA in addition to a career development internship with Kaiser Permanente. The FDA program enhanced my oncology knowledge and augmented my understanding of toxicology and pharmacology. The Kaiser The Permanente program allowed me to meet with dozens of practicing professionals, from physical therapists to pediatricians, to ophthalmologists. At this juncture, I realized that I had a gap in my knowledge of psychology, so I secured an internship with a Johns Hopkins-backed med-psych company focusing on pediatric drug addiction and mental health. There, I immersed myself in the practicalities of research, recruited subjects for studies, and created communication tools to better educate patients. Through nursing, I intend to tangibly assist and heal members of my community. I plan to help heal people like my brother all those years ago.

If I could change anything in the world, I would allow everyone to have access to abortions at their discretion. After my changes, abortion would indeed be healthcare. With the recent implementation of anti-abortion legislation and the repeal of Roe v Wade, it has become increasingly apparent that women and girls need this care to ensure their quality of life. According to the New York Times, twenty-five percent of women will receive an abortion in their life, and sixty percent are already parents. Upon the repealing of Roe v Wade, Nurses for Sexual and reproductive health stated that abortion is an essential component of women's health care. Like all healthcare, abortion decisions should be made by patients and their providers without interference from outside parties. Women are entitled to privacy, dignity, and respect when making medical decisions, just like any other patient. We should not let politics interfere with sound health policy based on science and evidence-based practice. We are actively hampering our doctor's ability to provide quality care by interfering with their patient-provider relationship. As for solutions, I would implement a federal law that reinstates the right to privacy given by Rowe v Wade; we cannot count on our supreme court officials to uphold justice and the fundamental rights of half our country's population. Secondly, I would ban any statewide program like Pennsylvania's that mandates anti-abortion counseling before a woman can receive her procedure. Not only is this practice cruel to women undergoing a traumatic situation, but it is also unnecessary. The only counseling a woman should receive is from her doctor. In addition, abortion, regardless of reason, should be covered by Medicaid. Women's healthcare is a right as important as the right to the ballots, and we must treat it as such. After all, an attack on women's reproductive rights with the threat of felony convictions threatens women's right to vote. If women who have abortions are felons, and felons cannot vote in elections, twenty-five percent of the female voting populus will be wiped from consideration. This is more than the right to planned parenthood down the block; this is the right to have our voices heard—the right to take up space and take charge of our bodies and future. By considering abortion care healthcare, an undeniable human right, we will ensure the future of our daughters and grandauhters. We will ensure their bodily autonomy, we will ensure their right to have their voices heard. In short, by considering abortion healthcare women will remain people, with the rights that come with personhood.

Stethoscopes, shears, and syringes were packed into the doctor's playset, a well-loved and utilized bag of miracle cures. My little brother was my first patient, and I experienced much joy in clumsily applying disinfectant and bandaids to his scrapes and bruises. After reading an adolescent biology text, I pretended to carefully excise injured tissue from his leg with my plastic scalpel. However, I was not prepared to cure him when he suffered three significant breaks in his arm and foot. Titanium rods and screws were implanted during two surgeries in his tiny body. I was in awe of the doctors and nurses who dutifully utilized the accurate versions of my playset parts to help repair his bones. However, after observing my mother soothe and heal her son with her nursing expertise, I slowly witnessed my career choice surfacing before my eyes. As a registered nurse and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, my mother has spent the past seventeen years teaching me that multifaceted healthcare includes medical, mental, and spiritual components. She instilled in me a desire to help others. I decided to start my journey in Emergency Medical Services at a local training program for teenagers who want to learn about the medical field. After earning CPR / AED, First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens certifications, Covid 19 interrupted my search for internships and further courses. To stay connected with hospitals, I started crocheting hats for babies in local hospitals and lived vicariously through my mother's horror stories of COVID-19. These stories only strengthened my conviction to become a nurse. Once school resumed, I joined my local firehouse as an EMT, rode in an ambulance, and responded to emergency calls. I also enrolled in a volunteer program in a local hospital's pediatric unit, where I interacted with and supported families experiencing the trauma of having a sick child. These experiences also solidified my passion for working at the bedside. Because nursing is a broad field with many opportunities to specialize, I wanted to explore different concentrations further to make an informed decision in college and beyond. I therefore applied and was admitted to an oncology program in the FDA in addition to a career development internship with Kaiser Permanente. The FDA program enhanced my oncology knowledge and augmented my understanding of toxicology and pharmacology. The Kaiser Permanente program allowed me to meet with dozens of practicing professionals, from physical therapists to pediatricians, to ophthalmologists. At this juncture, I realized that I had a gap in my knowledge of psychology, so I secured an internship with a Johns Hopkins-backed med-psych company focusing on pediatric drug addiction and mental health. There, I immersed myself in the practicalities of research, recruited subjects for studies, and created communication tools to educate patients better. Diversity in healthcare is vital to ensuring patient care. Patients are more likely to receive better care with a diverse set of providers, nurses, and support staff. Diversity in healthcare saves lives. I feel prepared to add to variety by studying nursing science as a BIPOC woman to assist and heal members of my community.

Stethoscopes, shears, and syringes were packed into the doctor's playset, a well-loved and utilized bag of miracle cures. My little brother was my first patient, and I experienced much joy in clumsily applying disinfectant and bandaids to his scrapes and bruises. After reading an adolescent biology text, I pretended to carefully excise injured tissue from his leg with my plastic scalpel. However, I was not prepared to cure him when he suffered three significant breaks in his arm and foot. Titanium rods and screws were implanted during two surgeries in his tiny body. I was in awe of the doctors and nurses who dutifully utilized the accurate versions of my playset parts to help repair his bones. However, after observing my mother soothe and heal her son with her nursing expertise, I slowly witnessed my career choice surfacing before my eyes. As a registered nurse and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, my mother has spent the past seventeen years teaching me that multifaceted healthcare includes medical, mental, and spiritual components. She instilled in me a desire to help others. I decided to start my journey in Emergency Medical Services at a local training program for teenagers who want to learn about the medical field. After earning CPR / AED, First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens certifications, Covid 19 interrupted my search for internships and further courses. To stay connected with hospitals, I started crocheting hats for babies in local hospitals and lived vicariously through my mother's horror stories of COVID-19. These stories only strengthened my conviction to become a nurse. Once school resumed, I joined my local firehouse as an EMT, rode in an ambulance, and responded to emergency calls. I also enrolled in a volunteer program in a local hospital's pediatric unit, where I interacted with and supported families experiencing the trauma of having a sick child. These experiences also solidified my passion for working at the bedside. Because nursing is a broad field with many opportunities to specialize, I wanted to explore different concentrations further to make an informed decision in college and beyond. I therefore applied and was admitted to an oncology program in the FDA in addition to a career development internship with Kaiser Permanente. The FDA program enhanced my oncology knowledge and augmented my understanding of toxicology and pharmacology. The Kaiser Permanente program allowed me to meet with dozens of practicing professionals, from physical therapists to pediatricians, to ophthalmologists. At this juncture, I realized that I had a gap in my knowledge of psychology, so I secured an internship with a Johns Hopkins-backed med-psych company focusing on pediatric drug addiction and mental health. There, I immersed myself in the practicalities of research, recruited subjects for studies, and created communication tools to educate patients better. Therefore, I feel prepared to study nursing science to assist and heal members of my community.

Keep a calendar of all your assignments, so you don't forget your homework. If you receive a syllabus, enter your assignments and their due dates into a designated calender at the beginning of the semester. If you don't receive a syllabus, enter your assignments as soon as they are assigned.

Because math is incredible The practical uses of mathematics are infinite. Everywhere you turn, you are met with numbers, algorithms, and data – especially in this digital age, with a large amount of information that can only be understood through statistical models and analysis. Maths allows us to view the world in a way nothing else can! Physics, economics, computer science, meteorology, engineering, and social science all speak the language of math. If you want to determine the location of a particle, model financial trends, or estimate a population size after a specific time frame, you use math. If you want to compress an image or write a cryptographic key, you use math. If you want to determine if a psychological phenomenon is true, you use math. If you want to forecast the weather, you use math. Unlike many other subjects, math is not subjective. Each question has a clear answer, and your answer is either right or wrong upon completion. There's no grey area. I enjoy this objective approach and the certainty that comes with it. Math is the purest academic field there is. There's no subjectivity in it (aside from determining usefulness or the "best" approach and so on). Strictly in regards to mathematics, however, it is objective. Something is either true or false. Math is a priori, meaning everything can be proven using deductive reasoning. Every math problem is a new, exciting challenge. The sense of satisfaction and adrenaline you get when you finally solve a problem that initially seemed impossible is unparalleled. I feel like maths constantly keeps you on your toes and never gets monotonous, so each new day learning in this beautiful subject area is unexpected and something you can look forward to.  Mathematics is an excellent way to sharpen your problem-solving skills. From solving variables to simplifying equations, math is teeming with critical thinking. There is also recreational math, comprising everything from logic puzzles to origami.

My first dogs were named Odi and Vega. Odi was black and kind; he would try to sneak into my room at night to sleep with me on my bed. Vega was white and black spotted and skittish; she would hide from the rain and loud noises. They were rescue greyhounds, and my parents had adopted them before I was born, so I don't have much memory of them. However, the significant dogs in my life nowadays are not my own. I met Rosie and Sandy on my daily walk back from the school bus stop. There they were in a neighbor's backyard right along the path, one dark light. Rosie was instantly friendly, bounding up to the fence; she would bark at me until I went over and pet her dark fur. Sandy took some time, but soon enough, she would follow Rosie to the fence and jockey for my attention. Soon enough, an idea struck me, what if I could walk them? So I handwrote a letter to the house owners, painstakingly writing out line after line as neat as I could. After I got it perfect, I folded it neatly into an envelope and placed it into their mailbox on my next walk to the bus stop. Within the day, I got a text from one of the dog owners. She introduced herself as Mary and explained that she was heavily pregnant, and since her dogs were so rambunctious, she had stopped walking them for fear of falling over because of her tugging. I gladly volunteered for the job, and I was walking the dogs multiple times a week in no time. I continued to walk Mary's dogs through the rest of her pregnancy and after the birth of her first child, Phillip. After an off-hand remark about needing a babysitter, I volunteered for the task. I explained that since the dogs were so keen on me, I could give them attention whenever the baby was sleeping or eating, and she agreed. I have been babysitting Phillip for a couple of months now, and it has been exciting to see him grow. He is chunky and adorable, with legs so thick that they get stuck between the slats of his crib; I love the kid. Mary and I have also become closer over my time babysitting for her, she knows about all of my juicy high school gossips, and she tells me of her time as a young single woman living in DC. Her dogs have given me the best job I've ever had, and I love her family, two and four-legged members, like they are my own.

Stethoscopes, shears, and syringes were packed into the doctor's playset, a well-loved and utilized bag of miracle cures. My little brother was my first patient, and I experienced much joy in clumsily applying disinfectant and bandaids to his scrapes and bruises. After reading an adolescent biology text, I pretended to carefully excise injured tissue from his leg with my plastic scalpel. However, I was not prepared to cure him when he suffered three significant breaks in his arm and foot. Titanium rods and screws were implanted during two surgeries in his tiny body. I was in awe of the doctors and nurses who dutifully utilized the accurate versions of my playset parts to help repair his bones. However, after observing my mother soothe and heal her son with her nursing expertise, I slowly witnessed my career choice surfacing before my eyes. As a registered nurse and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, my mother has spent the past seventeen years teaching me that multifaceted healthcare includes medical, mental, and spiritual components. She instilled in me a desire to help others. I decided to start my journey in Emergency Medical Services at a local training program for teenagers who want to learn about the medical field. After earning CPR / AED, First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens certifications, Covid 19 interrupted my search for internships and further courses. To stay connected with hospitals, I started crocheting hats for babies in local hospitals and lived vicariously through my mother's horror stories of COVID-19. These stories only strengthened my conviction to become a nurse. Once school resumed, I joined my local firehouse as an EMT, rode in an ambulance, and responded to emergency calls. I also enrolled in a volunteer program in a local hospital's pediatric unit, where I interacted with and supported families experiencing the trauma of having a sick child. These experiences also solidified my passion for working at the bedside. Because nursing is a broad field with so many opportunities to specialize, I wanted to explore different concentrations further to make an informed decision in college and beyond. I therefore applied and was admitted to an oncology program in the FDA in addition to a career development internship with Kaiser Permanente. The FDA program enhanced my oncology knowledge and augmented my understanding of toxicology and pharmacology. The Kaiser Permanente program allowed me to meet with dozens of practicing professionals, from physical therapists to pediatricians, to ophthalmologists. At this juncture, I realized that I had a gap in my knowledge of psychology, so I secured an internship with a Johns Hopkins-backed med-psych company focusing on pediatric drug addiction and mental health. There, I immersed myself in the practicalities of research, recruited subjects for studies, and created communication tools to educate patients better. When I was little, I was drawn to healthcare because of its immediate impact. You could put a bandaid on a scrape and it would feel better, you could put some ice on a bumped head and the pounding would ease. Higher education will allow me to go beyond bandaids and ice packs, to better serve my patient population. The more education I receive, the more care I can provide, and I intend on educating myself as much as I can.

Stethoscopes, shears, and syringes were packed into the doctor's playset, a well-loved and utilized bag of miracle cures. My little brother was my first patient, and I experienced much joy in clumsily applying disinfectant and bandaids to his scrapes and bruises. After reading an adolescent biology text, I pretended to carefully excise injured tissue from his leg with my plastic scalpel. However, I was not prepared to cure him when he suffered three significant breaks in his arm and foot. Titanium rods and screws were implanted during two surgeries in his tiny body. I was in awe of the doctors and nurses who dutifully utilized the accurate versions of my playset parts to help repair his bones. However, after observing my mother soothe and heal her son with her nursing expertise, I slowly witnessed my career choice surfacing before my eyes. As a registered nurse and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, my mother has spent the past seventeen years teaching me that multifaceted healthcare includes medical, mental, and spiritual components. She instilled in me a desire to help others. I decided to start my journey in Emergency Medical Services at a local training program for teenagers who want to learn about the medical field. After earning CPR / AED, First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens certifications, Covid 19 interrupted my search for internships and further courses. To stay connected with hospitals, I started crocheting hats for babies in local hospitals and lived vicariously through my mother's horror stories of COVID-19. These stories only strengthened my conviction to become a nurse. Once school resumed, I joined my local firehouse as an EMT, rode in an ambulance, and responded to emergency calls. I also enrolled in a volunteer program in a local hospital's pediatric unit, where I interacted with and supported families experiencing the trauma of having a sick child. These experiences also solidified my passion for working at the bedside. Because nursing is a broad field with so many opportunities to specialize, I wanted to explore different concentrations further to make an informed decision in college and beyond. I therefore applied and was admitted to an oncology program in the FDA in addition to a career development internship with Kaiser Permanente. The FDA program enhanced my oncology knowledge and augmented my understanding of toxicology and pharmacology. The Kaiser Permanente program allowed me to meet with dozens of practicing professionals, from physical therapists to pediatricians, to ophthalmologists. At this juncture, I realized that I had a gap in my knowledge of psychology, so I secured an internship with a Johns Hopkins-backed med-psych company focusing on pediatric drug addiction and mental health. There, I immersed myself in the practicalities of research, recruited subjects for studies, and created communication tools to educate patients better. I feel prepared to study nursing science to assist and heal members of my community. I want to help people like my brother, heal them of their ailments and return them to their lives as soon as possible. I look forward to practicing medicine, for real this time.

Stethoscopes, shears, and syringes were packed into the doctor's playset, a well-loved and utilized bag of miracle cures. My little brother was my first patient, and I experienced much joy in clumsily applying disinfectant and bandaids to his scrapes and bruises. After reading an adolescent biology text, I pretended to carefully excise injured tissue from his leg with my plastic scalpel. However, I was not prepared to cure him when he suffered three significant breaks in his arm and foot. Titanium rods and screws were implanted during two surgeries in his tiny body. I was in awe of the doctors and nurses who dutifully utilized the accurate versions of my playset parts to help repair his bones. After observing my mother soothe and heal her son with her nursing expertise, I slowly witnessed my career choice surfacing before my eyes. As a registered nurse and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, my mother has spent the past seventeen years teaching me that multifaceted healthcare includes medical, mental, and spiritual components. She instilled in me a desire to help others. But throughout my high school career, I was so focused on helping others that I neglected myself. I soon slipped into a deep depression followed by brief but sharp instances of manic joy, and I was quickly diagnosed with Bipolar disorder. I spent my days in bed or wandering around the world in a dream-like state. Nothing felt natural; I wasn't hungry anymore, and I wasn't even tired; I was just there, a sad fleshy sack of a person. I won't pretend like I fought to keep my happiness. I loved to feel miserable. It was a comforting constant; through all life changes, my self-loathing stayed all the same. I stopped trying to eat; I slept only because I was so numb at the thought of doing anything else. This pattern of self-destruction continued for over a year until my brother pulled me aside. He told me he was worried about me and that my parents were concerned too. They had long since purged my room of sharp objects or anything long enough to tie to a noose. I remembered my little brother like he was a couple of years ago, the brave little kid that broke his arm. He shouldn't need to worry about me. "I am his big sister, failing at my job," I thought. And to a point, it was true. I soon began to open up to the therapist my parents had set me up with, I received a diagnosis and started medication, but I wasn't getting better. I desperately wanted to go back to "normal" and go back to feeling alive, but it wasn't instant. It took two more years of reforming my diet, sleep, and self-talk to get close to stable again. I'm still not the person I was before my Bipolar diagnosis, but I'm glad for the change. I still work to maintain my stability and health, but the more I work at myself, the more these practices become habits. My journey to mental recovery has allowed me to grow and mature as a person in ways that I am eternally grateful for. I view people differently; I notice things that others do not, and I act with more compassion toward strangers. My experience with mental health has made me a better friend and person. I see the world as a collection of people with various stories, and those stories shape the way one acts and behaves themselves. I learned to believe in myself and others. My experience with mental health has also furthered my conviction in nursing. I intend to care for myself while nurturing others through a future nursing career. I want to help those who felt like I did. I want to help people feel safe in their minds.

Stethoscopes, shears, and syringes were packed into the doctor's playset, a well-loved and utilized bag of miracle cures. My little brother was my first patient, and I experienced much joy in clumsily applying disinfectant and bandaids to his scrapes and bruises. After reading an adolescent biology text, I pretended to carefully excise injured tissue from his leg with my plastic scalpel. However, I was not prepared to cure him when he suffered three significant breaks in his arm and foot. Titanium rods and screws were implanted during two surgeries in his tiny body. I was in awe of the doctors and nurses who dutifully utilized the accurate versions of my playset parts to help repair his bones. However, after observing my mother soothe and heal her son with her nursing expertise, I slowly witnessed my career choice surfacing before my eyes. As a registered nurse and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, my mother has spent the past seventeen years teaching me that multifaceted healthcare includes medical, mental, and spiritual components. She instilled in me a desire to help others. I decided to start my journey in Emergency Medical Services at a local training program for teenagers who want to learn about the medical field. After earning CPR / AED, First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens certifications, Covid 19 interrupted my search for internships and further courses. To stay connected with hospitals, I started crocheting hats for babies in local hospitals and lived vicariously through my mother's horror stories of COVID-19. These stories only strengthened my conviction to become a nurse. Once school resumed, I joined my local firehouse as an EMT, rode in an ambulance, and responded to emergency calls. I also enrolled in a volunteer program in a local hospital's pediatric unit, where I interacted with and supported families experiencing the trauma of having a sick child. These experiences also solidified my passion for working at the bedside. Because nursing is a broad field with so many opportunities to specialize, I wanted to explore different concentrations further to make an informed decision in college and beyond. I therefore applied and was admitted to an oncology program in the FDA in addition to a career development internship with Kaiser Permanente. The FDA program enhanced my oncology knowledge and augmented my understanding of toxicology and pharmacology. The Kaiser Permanente program allowed me to meet with dozens of practicing professionals, from physical therapists to pediatricians, to ophthalmologists. At this juncture, I realized that I had a gap in my knowledge of psychology, so I secured an internship with a Johns Hopkins-backed med-psych company focusing on pediatric drug addiction and mental health. There, I immersed myself in the practicalities of research, recruited subjects for studies, and created communication tools to educate patients better. I feel prepared to study nursing science to assist and heal members of my community. I intend to go on in my medical pursuits by earning a Juris Doctorate and becoming a nurse lawyer. Armed with my education, I will be able to advocate for patients by litigating for policy to protect our most vulnerable populous. I will work to mend America's damaged healthcare system with the goal of ensuring that all get the essential care they need.

Stethoscopes, shears, and syringes were packed into the doctor's playset, a well-loved and utilized bag of miracle cures. My little brother was my first patient, and I experienced much joy in clumsily applying disinfectant and bandaids to his scrapes and bruises. After reading an adolescent biology text, I pretended to carefully excise injured tissue from his leg with my plastic scalpel. However, I was not prepared to cure him when he suffered three significant breaks in his arm and foot. Titanium rods and screws were implanted during two surgeries in his tiny body. I was in awe of the doctors and nurses who dutifully utilized the accurate versions of my playset parts to help repair his bones. After observing my mother soothe and heal her son with her nursing expertise, I slowly witnessed my career choice surfacing before my eyes. As a registered nurse and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, my mother has spent the past seventeen years teaching me that multifaceted healthcare includes medical, mental, and spiritual components. She instilled in me a desire to help others. But throughout my high school career, I was so focused on helping others that I neglected myself. I soon slipped into a deep depression followed by brief but sharp instances of manic joy, and I was quickly diagnosed with Bipolar disorder. I spent my days in bed or wandering around the world in a dream-like state. Nothing felt natural; I wasn't hungry anymore, and I wasn't even tired; I was just there, a sad fleshy sack of a person. I won't pretend like I fought to keep my happiness. I loved to feel miserable. It was a comforting constant; through all life changes, my self-loathing stayed all the same. I stopped trying to eat; I slept only because I was so numb at the thought of doing anything else. This pattern of self-destruction continued for over a year until my brother pulled me aside. He told me he was worried about me and that my parents were concerned too. They had long since purged my room of sharp objects or anything long enough to tie to a noose. I remembered my little brother like he was a couple of years ago, the brave little kid that broke his arm. He shouldn't need to worry about me. "I am his big sister, failing at my job," I thought. And to a point, it was true. I soon began to open up to the therapist my parents had set me up with, I received a diagnosis and started medication, but I wasn't getting better. I desperately wanted to go back to "normal" and go back to feeling alive, but it wasn't instant. It took two more years of reforming my diet, sleep, and self-talk to get close to stable again. I'm still not the person I was before my Bipolar diagnosis, but I'm glad for the change. I still work to maintain my stability and health, but the more I work at myself, the more these practices become habits. My journey to mental recovery has allowed me to grow and mature as a person in ways that I am eternally grateful for. I see people; differently, I notice things that others do not, and I act with more compassion toward strangers. My experience with mental health has made me a better friend and person. I see the world as a collection of people with various stories, and those stories shape the way one acts and behaves themselves. My experience with mental health has also furthered my conviction in nursing. I intend to care for myself while nurturing others through a future nursing career. I want to help those who felt like I did. I want to help people feel safe in their minds.

Stethoscopes, shears, and syringes were packed into the doctor's playset, a well-loved and utilized bag of miracle cures. My little brother was my first patient, and I experienced much joy in clumsily applying disinfectant and bandaids to his scrapes and bruises. After reading an adolescent biology text, I pretended to carefully excise injured tissue from his leg with my plastic scalpel. However, I was not prepared to cure him when he suffered three significant breaks in his arm and foot. Titanium rods and screws were implanted during two surgeries in his tiny body. I was in awe of the doctors and nurses who dutifully utilized the accurate versions of my playset parts to help repair his bones. After observing my mother soothe and heal her son with her nursing expertise, I slowly witnessed my career choice surfacing before my eyes. As a registered nurse and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, my mother has spent the past seventeen years teaching me that multifaceted healthcare includes medical, mental, and spiritual components. She instilled in me a desire to help others. But throughout my high school career, I was so focused on helping others that I neglected myself. I soon slipped into a deep depression followed by brief but sharp instances of manic joy, and I was quickly diagnosed with Bipolar disorder. I spent my days in bed or wandering around the world in a dream-like state. Nothing felt natural; I wasn't hungry anymore, and I wasn't even tired; I was just there, a sad fleshy sack of a person. I won't pretend like I fought to keep my happiness. I loved to feel miserable. It was a comforting constant; through all life changes, my self-loathing stayed all the same. I stopped trying to eat; I slept only because I was so numb at the thought of doing anything else. This pattern of self-destruction continued for over a year until my brother pulled me aside. He told me he was worried about me and that my parents were concerned too. They had long since purged my room of any sharp objects, or anything long enough to tie to a noose. I remembered my little brother like he was a couple of years ago, the little brave kid that broke his arm. He shouldn't need to worry about me. "I am his big sister, failing at my job," I thought. And to a point, it was true. I soon began to open up to the therapist my parents had set me up with, I received a diagnosis and started medication, but I wasn't getting better. I desperately wanted to go back to "normal" and go back to feeling alive, but it wasn't instant. It took two more years of reforming my diet, sleep, and self-talk to get close to stable again. I'm still not the person I was before my Bipolar diagnosis, but I'm glad for the change. I still work to maintain my stability and health, but the more I work at myself, the more these practices become habits. My journey to mental recovery has allowed me to grow and mature as a person in ways that I am eternally grateful for. And I intend to care for myself while nurturing others through a future nursing career. I want to help those who felt like I did. I want to help people feel safe in their minds.

Stethoscopes, shears, and syringes were packed into the doctor's playset, a well-loved and utilized bag of miracle cures. My little brother was my first patient, and I experienced much joy in clumsily applying disinfectant and bandaids to his scrapes and bruises. After reading an adolescent biology text, I pretended to carefully excise injured tissue from his leg with my plastic scalpel. However, I was not prepared to cure him when he suffered three significant breaks in his arm and foot. Titanium rods and screws were implanted during two surgeries in his tiny body. I was in awe of the doctors and nurses who dutifully utilized the accurate versions of my playset parts to help repair his bones. However, after observing my mother soothe and heal her son with her nursing expertise, I slowly witnessed my career choice surfacing before my eyes. As a registered nurse and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, my mother has spent the past seventeen years teaching me that multifaceted healthcare includes medical, mental, and spiritual components. She instilled in me a desire to help others. I decided to start my journey in Emergency Medical Services at a local training program for teenagers who want to learn about the medical field. After earning CPR / AED, First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens certifications, Covid 19 interrupted my search for internships and further courses. To stay connected with hospitals, I started crocheting hats for babies in local hospitals and lived vicariously through my mother's horror stories of COVID-19. These stories only strengthened my conviction to become a nurse. Once school resumed, I joined my local firehouse as an EMT, rode in an ambulance, and responded to emergency calls. I also enrolled in a volunteer program in a local hospital's pediatric unit, where I interacted with and supported families experiencing the trauma of having a sick child. These experiences also solidified my passion for working at the bedside. Because nursing is a broad field with so many opportunities to specialize, I wanted to explore different concentrations further to make an informed decision in college and beyond. I therefore applied and was admitted to an oncology program in the FDA in addition to a career development internship with Kaiser Permanente. The FDA program enhanced my oncology knowledge and augmented my understanding of toxicology and pharmacology. The Kaiser The Permanente program allowed me to meet with dozens of practicing professionals, from physical therapists to pediatricians, to ophthalmologists. At this juncture, I realized that I had a gap in my knowledge of psychology, so I secured an internship with a Johns Hopkins-backed med-psych company focusing on pediatric drug addiction and mental health. There, I immersed myself in the practicalities of research, recruited subjects for studies, and created communication tools to educate patients better. Armed with this experience, I am interested in pursuing pediatric oncological nursing. This patient population is vulnerable, and I believe that I could alleviate some stress that comes with childhood cancer through holistic, evidence-based nursing practice in the future. Therefore, I feel prepared to study nursing science to assist and heal members of that community.

I have done many things during my high school career. I decided to pursue nursing, so I have done a fair bit in medicine. I decided to start my journey in Emergency Medical Services at a local training program for teenagers who want to learn about the medical field. After earning CPR / AED, First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens certifications, Covid 19 interrupted my search for internships and further courses. To stay connected with hospitals, I started crocheting hats for babies in local hospitals and lived vicariously through my mother's horror stories of COVID-19. These stories only strengthened my conviction to become a nurse. Once school resumed, I joined my local firehouse as an EMT, rode in an ambulance, and responded to emergency calls. I also enrolled in a volunteer program in a local hospital's pediatric unit, where I interacted with and supported families experiencing the trauma of having a sick child. These experiences also solidified my passion for working at the bedside. Because nursing is a broad field with so many opportunities to specialize, I wanted to explore some different concentrations further to make an informed decision in college and beyond. I therefore applied and was admitted to an oncology program in the FDA in addition to a career development internship with Kaiser Permanente. The FDA program enhanced my oncology knowledge and augmented my understanding of toxicology and pharmacology. The Kaiser Permanente program allowed me to meet with dozens of practicing professionals, from physical therapists to pediatricians, to ophthalmologists. At this juncture, I realized that I had a gap in my knowledge of psychology, so I secured an internship with a Johns Hopkins-backed med-psych company focusing on pediatric drug addiction and mental health. There, I immersed myself in the practicalities of research, recruited subjects for studies, and created communication tools to educate patients better. All the learning I have conducted over my high school career has been incredibly impactful. I have discovered nuance in previously flat planes, and I intend to apply that spirit to my actions in the future. Whether that be going on to become a nurse lawyer, or going into medical school, I fully intend on pursuing graduate education. Beyond that, the medical field is ever-changing. New drugs emerge every year, and new technology makes our care safer and more effective than ever. It is impossible to work in the medical field without enthusiasm to be a lifelong learner. After all, it is this lifelong learning that saves lives.

I have done many things during my high school career. I decided to pursue nursing, so I have done a fair bit in medicine. I decided to start my journey in Emergency Medical Services at a local training program for teenagers who want to learn about the medical field. After earning CPR / AED, First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens certifications, Covid 19 interrupted my search for internships and further courses. To stay connected with hospitals, I started crocheting hats for babies in local hospitals and lived vicariously through my mother's horror stories of COVID-19. These stories only strengthened my conviction to become a nurse. Once school resumed, I joined my local firehouse as an EMT, rode in an ambulance, and responded to emergency calls. I also enrolled in a volunteer program in a local hospital's pediatric unit, where I interacted with and supported families experiencing the trauma of having a sick child. These experiences also solidified my passion for working at the bedside. Because nursing is a broad field with so many opportunities to specialize, I wanted to explore some different concentrations further to make an informed decision in college and beyond. I therefore applied and was admitted to an oncology program in the FDA in addition to a career development internship with Kaiser Permanente. The FDA program enhanced my oncology knowledge and augmented my understanding of toxicology and pharmacology. The Kaiser Permanente program allowed me to meet with dozens of practicing professionals, from physical therapists to pediatricians, to ophthalmologists. At this juncture, I realized that I had a gap in my knowledge of psychology, so I secured an internship with a Johns Hopkins-backed med-psych company focusing on pediatric drug addiction and mental health. There, I immersed myself in the practicalities of research, recruited subjects for studies, and created communication tools to educate patients better. However, despite my activities and successes, I wasn't mentally well for most of high school. I would walk around feeling like a zombie, floating through classes without realizing what was happening around me. It took me years of therapy and various medications to feel connected with my surroundings and years more to begin enjoying the life that I was living. I started to eat regular meals slowly but surely and began to feel alive again. Nowadays, I am doing a lot better psychologically, but my history with depression and bipolar makes me keener on maintaining my mental health. I indulge in artistic endeavors, painting, crocheting, sewing, and more. I make time for myself to relax and take breaks from my activities. But above all, I listen to my body. A significant change I have made is my nutrition. I try to eat every color of the rainbow to ensure that I consume various nutrients. Bell peppers, cucumbers, watermelons, and more make me feel alive and clear. While healthy eating didn't cure anything, it sure made everything easier. Getting out of bed was no longer so grueling; focusing on tests didn't require all my brain power. Eating healthy takes the weight off your mind and clears the fog. Mental health is a life-or-death issue for me, and healthy eating habits ensure that I keep on track with my goals and plans for the future. When I eat right and take care of myself, I feel alive, something I don't take for granted,

I have done many things during my high school career. I decided to pursue nursing, so I have done a fair bit in medicine. I decided to start my journey in Emergency Medical Services at a local training program for teenagers who want to learn about the medical field. After earning CPR / AED, First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens certifications, Covid 19 interrupted my search for internships and further courses. To stay connected with hospitals, I started crocheting hats for babies in local hospitals and lived vicariously through my mother's horror stories of COVID-19. These stories only strengthened my conviction to become a nurse. Once school resumed, I joined my local firehouse as an EMT, rode in an ambulance, and responded to emergency calls. I also enrolled in a volunteer program in a local hospital's pediatric unit, where I interacted with and supported families experiencing the trauma of having a sick child. These experiences also solidified my passion for working at the bedside. Because nursing is a broad field with so many opportunities to specialize, I wanted to explore some different concentrations further to make an informed decision in college and beyond. I therefore applied and was admitted to an oncology program in the FDA in addition to a career development internship with Kaiser Permanente. The FDA program enhanced my oncology knowledge and augmented my understanding of toxicology and pharmacology. The Kaiser Permanente program allowed me to meet with dozens of practicing professionals, from physical therapists to pediatricians, to ophthalmologists. At this juncture, I realized that I had a gap in my knowledge of psychology, so I secured an internship with a Johns Hopkins-backed med-psych company focusing on pediatric drug addiction and mental health. There, I immersed myself in the practicalities of research, recruited subjects for studies, and created communication tools to educate patients better. However, despite my activities and successes, I wasn't mentally well for most of high school. I would walk around feeling like a zombie, floating through classes without realizing what was happening around me. It took me years of therapy and various medications to feel connected with my surroundings and years more to begin enjoying the life that I was living. I started to eat regular meals slowly but surely and began to feel alive again. Nowadays, I am doing a lot better psychologically, but my history with depression and bipolar makes me keener on maintaining my mental health. I indulge in artistic endeavors, painting, crocheting, sewing, and more. I make time for myself to relax and take breaks from my activities. But above all, I listen to my body. I eat foods that make me feel good, bell peppers, cucumbers, and more. And I pay attention when my body wants to move and exercise. I make time for myself to pack healthy lunches and complete after-school walks around the neighborhood. I prioritize my well-being. Mental health is a life-or-death issue for me. If I break down the habits I've built up to keep me sane, I fear that I will stumble back into the horrible state I was in years ago. So, I do my best. I paint my paintings and sew my clothing, and little by little, I feel farther from depression and darkness. By taking care of myself, I keep myself alive.

I have done many things during my high school career. I decided to pursue nursing, so I have done a fair bit in medicine. I decided to start my journey in Emergency Medical Services at a local training program for teenagers who want to learn about the medical field. After earning CPR / AED, First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens certifications, Covid 19 interrupted my search for internships and further courses. To stay connected with hospitals, I started crocheting hats for babies in local hospitals and lived vicariously through my mother's horror stories of COVID-19. These stories only strengthened my conviction to become a nurse. Once school resumed, I joined my local firehouse as an EMT, rode in an ambulance, and responded to emergency calls. I also enrolled in a volunteer program in a local hospital's pediatric unit, where I interacted with and supported families experiencing the trauma of having a sick child. These experiences also solidified my passion for working at the bedside. Because nursing is a broad field with so many opportunities to specialize, I wanted to explore some different concentrations further to make an informed decision in college and beyond. I therefore applied and was admitted to an oncology program in the FDA in addition to a career development internship with Kaiser Permanente. The FDA program enhanced my oncology knowledge and augmented my understanding of toxicology and pharmacology. The Kaiser Permanente program allowed me to meet with dozens of practicing professionals, from physical therapists to pediatricians, to ophthalmologists. At this juncture, I realized that I had a gap in my knowledge of psychology, so I secured an internship with a Johns Hopkins-backed med-psych company focusing on pediatric drug addiction and mental health. There, I immersed myself in the practicalities of research, recruited subjects for studies, and created communication tools to educate patients better. However, despite my activities and successes, I wasn't mentally well for most of high school. I would walk around feeling like a zombie, floating through classes without realizing what was happening around me. It took me years of therapy and various medications to feel connected with my surroundings and years more to begin enjoying the life that I was living. I started to eat regular meals slowly but surely and began to feel alive again. Nowadays, I am doing a lot better psychologically, but my history with depression and bipolar makes me keener on maintaining my mental health. I indulge in artistic endeavors, painting, crocheting, sewing, and more. I make time for myself to relax and take breaks from my activities. But above all, I listen to my body. Mental health is a life-or-death issue for me. If I break down the habits I've built up to keep me sane, I fear that I will stumble back into the horrible state I was in years ago. So, I do my best. I paint my paintings and sew my clothing, and little by little, I feel farther from depression and darkness. By taking care of myself, I keep myself alive.

I want to be happy. I have worked hard for a while to be successful professionally; however, I want to be content with my life, and I am not as of right now.

Stethoscopes, shears, and syringes were packed into the doctor's playset, a well-loved and utilized bag of miracle cures. My little brother was my first patient, and I experienced much joy in clumsily applying disinfectant and bandaids to his scrapes and bruises. After reading an adolescent biology text, I pretended to carefully excise injured tissue from his leg with my plastic scalpel. However, I was not prepared to cure him when he suffered three significant breaks in his arm and foot. During two surgeries, titanium rods and screws were implanted in his tiny body, and I was in awe of the doctors and nurses who dutifully utilized the accurate versions of my playset parts to help repair his bones. However, after observing my mother soothe and heal her son with her nursing expertise, I slowly witnessed my career choice surfacing before my eyes. As a registered nurse and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, my mother has spent the past seventeen years teaching me that multifaceted healthcare includes medical, mental, and spiritual components. She instilled in me a desire for helping others. I decided to start my journey in Emergency Medical Services, at a local training program for teenagers who want to learn about the medical field. After earning CPR / AED, First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens certifications, Covid 19 interrupted my search for internships and further courses. In order to stay connected with hospitals, I started crocheting hats for babies in local hospitals and lived vicariously through my mother's horror stories of COVID-19. These stories only strengthened my conviction to become a nurse. Once school resumed, I joined my local firehouse as an EMT, rode in an ambulance, and responded to emergency calls. I also enrolled in a volunteer program in a local hospital's pediatric unit where I interacted with and supported families experiencing the trauma of having a sick child. These experiences also solidified my passion for working at the bedside. Because nursing is a broad field and there are so many opportunities to specialize, I wanted to further explore some additional concentrations in order to make an informed decision in college and beyond. I therefore applied and was admitted to an oncology program in the FDA in addition to a career development internship with Kaiser Permanente. The FDA program enhanced my knowledge of oncology and also augmented my understanding of toxicology and pharmacology. The Kaiser Permanente program allowed me to meet with dozens of practicing professionals, from physical therapists to pediatricians, to ophthalmologists. At this juncture, I realized that I had a gap in my knowledge of psychology, so I secured an internship with a Johns Hopkins-backed med-psych company focusing on pediatric drug addiction and mental health. There, I immersed myself in the practicalities of research, recruited subjects for studies, and created communication tools to better educate patients. Earning a bachelor of science in nursing would allow me to have a tangible, real impact on my community and the people I care about. I would be able to help people like my brother when they were feeling their worst. Through evidence-based practice, healthcare professionals apply scientific research to their day-to-day jobs, improving the care that they provide. Science saves lives, and I look forward to facilitating that in the future.

Stethoscopes, shears, and syringes were packed into the doctor's playset, a well-loved and utilized bag of miracle cures. My little brother was my first patient, and I experienced much joy clumsily applying disinfectant and bandaids to his scrapes and bruises. After reading an adolescent biology text, I pretended to carefully excise injured tissue out of his leg with my plastic scalpel. However, I was not prepared to cure him when he suffered three significant breaks in his arm and foot. During two surgeries, titanium rods and screws were implanted in his tiny body, and I was in awe of the doctors and nurses who dutifully utilized the accurate versions of my playset parts to help repair my brother's bones. However, after observing my mother soothe and heal my son with her nursing expertise, I slowly witnessed my career choice surfacing before my eyes. As a registered nurse and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, my mother has spent the past seventeen years teaching me that multifaceted healthcare includes medical, mental, and spiritual components. She instilled in me a desire for helping others. I decided to start my journey in Emergency Medical Services, thru a local training program for teenagers who want to learn about the medical field. After earning CPR / AED, First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens certifications, Covid 19 interrupted my search for internships and further courses. In order to stay connected with hospitals, I started crocheting hats for babies in local hospitals and lived vicariously through my mother's horror stories of COVID-19 from the trenches. These stories only strengthened my conviction toward nursing. Once school resumed, I joined my local firehouse as an EMT, rode in an ambulance, and responded to emergency calls. I also enrolled in a volunteer program in a local hospital's pediatric unit where I interacted with and supported families experiencing the trauma of having a sick child. These experiences solidified my passion for working at the bedside. Because nursing is a broad field and there are so many opportunities to specialize in specific fields such as psychology, medical/surgical, obstetrics, etc. I wanted to further explore some additional specialties in order to make an informed decision in college and beyond. I therefore applied and was admitted to an oncology program in the FDA in addition to a career development internship with Kaiser Permanente. The FDA program enhanced my knowledge of oncology and also augmented my understanding of toxicology and pharmacology. The Kaiser Permanente program allowed me to meet with dozens of practicing professionals, from physical therapists to pediatricians, to ophthalmologists. Playing pretend with my brother spurred a lifelong interest in medicine, and I feel prepared to study nursing science at Georgetown in order to tangibly assist and heal members of my community. For real this time.

Stethoscopes, shears, and syringes were packed into the doctor's playset, a well-loved and utilized bag of miracle cures. My little brother was my first patient, and I experienced much joy clumsily applying disinfectant and bandaids to his scrapes and bruises. After reading an adolescent biology text, I pretended to carefully excise injured tissue out of his leg with my plastic scalpel. However, I was not prepared to cure him when he suffered three significant breaks in his arm and foot. During two surgeries, titanium rods and screws were implanted in his tiny body, and I was in awe of the doctors and nurses who dutifully utilized the accurate versions of my playset parts to help repair my brother's bones. However, after observing my mother soothe and heal my son with her nursing expertise, I slowly witnessed my career choice surfacing before my eyes. As a registered nurse and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, my mother has spent the past seventeen years teaching me that multifaceted healthcare includes medical, mental, and spiritual components. She instilled in me a desire for helping others. I decided to start my journey in Emergency Medical Services, thru a local training program for teenagers who want to learn about the medical field. After earning CPR / AED, First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens certifications, Covid 19 interrupted my search for internships and further courses. In order to stay connected with hospitals, I started crocheting hats for babies in local hospitals and lived vicariously through my mother's horror stories of COVID-19 from the trenches. These stories only strengthened my conviction toward nursing. Once school resumed, I joined my local firehouse as an EMT, rode in an ambulance, and responded to emergency calls. I also enrolled in a volunteer program in a local hospital's pediatric unit where I interacted with and supported families experiencing the trauma of having a sick child. These experiences solidified my passion for working at the bedside. Because nursing is a broad field and there are so many opportunities to specialize in specific fields such as psychology, medical/surgical, obstetrics, etc. I wanted to further explore some additional specialties in order to make an informed decision in college and beyond. I therefore applied and was admitted to an oncology program in the FDA in addition to a career development internship with Kaiser Permanente. The FDA program enhanced my knowledge of oncology and also augmented my understanding of toxicology and pharmacology. The Kaiser Permanente program allowed me to meet with dozens of practicing professionals, from physical therapists to pediatricians, to ophthalmologists. At this juncture, I realized that I had a gap in my knowledge of psychology, so I secured an internship with a Johns Hopkins-backed med-psych company focusing on pediatric drug addiction and mental health. There, I immersed myself in the practicalities of research, recruiting subjects for studies, and creating communication tools to better educate patients. Playing pretend with my brother spurred a lifelong interest in medicine, and I feel prepared to study nursing science at Georgetown in order to tangibly assist and heal members of my community. For real this time.

Stethoscopes, shears, and syringes were packed into the doctor's playset, a well-loved and utilized bag of miracle cures. My little brother was my first patient, and I experienced much joy clumsily applying disinfectant and bandaids to his scrapes and bruises. After reading an adolescent biology text, I pretended to carefully excise injured tissue out of his leg with my plastic scalpel. However, I was not prepared to cure him when he suffered three significant breaks in his arm and foot. During two surgeries, titanium rods and screws were implanted in his tiny body, and I was in awe of the doctors and nurses who dutifully utilized the accurate versions of my playset parts to help repair my brother's bones. However, after observing my mother soothe and heal my son with her nursing expertise, I slowly witnessed my career choice surfacing before my eyes. As a registered nurse and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, my mother has spent the past seventeen years teaching me that multifaceted healthcare includes medical, mental, and spiritual components. She instilled in me a desire for helping others. I decided to start my journey in Emergency Medical Services, thru a local training program for teenagers who want to learn about the medical field. After earning CPR / AED, First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens certifications, Covid 19 interrupted my search for internships and further courses. In order to stay connected with hospitals, I started crocheting hats for babies in local hospitals and lived vicariously through my mother's horror stories of COVID-19 from the trenches. These stories only strengthened my conviction toward nursing. Once school resumed, I joined my local firehouse as an EMT, rode in an ambulance, and responded to emergency calls. I also enrolled in a volunteer program in a local hospital's pediatric unit where I interacted with and supported families experiencing the trauma of having a sick child. These experiences solidified my passion for working at the bedside. Because nursing is a broad field and there are so many opportunities to specialize in specific fields such as psychology, medical/surgical, obstetrics, etc. I wanted to further explore some additional specialties in order to make an informed decision in college and beyond. I therefore applied and was admitted to an oncology program in the FDA in addition to a career development internship with Kaiser Permanente. The FDA program enhanced my knowledge of oncology and also augmented my understanding of toxicology and pharmacology. The Kaiser Permanente program allowed me to meet with dozens of practicing professionals, from physical therapists to pediatricians, to ophthalmologists. At this juncture, I realized that I had a gap in my knowledge of psychology, so I secured an internship with a Johns Hopkins-backed med-psych company focusing on pediatric drug addiction and mental health. There, I immersed myself in the practicalities of research, recruiting subjects for studies, and creating communication tools to better educate patients. During my career, I intend to advocate for underserved patient populations and help to close the gap in maternal mortality between African American and white women. Playing pretend with my brother spurred a lifelong interest in medicine, and I feel prepared to study nursing science in order to tangibly assist and heal members of my community. For real this time.

I want to go into nursing. Though nursing is a traditionally female-dominated space, the same can't be said for the rest of the healthcare system. I found nursing through my family, both my mother and grandmother were nurses, and they have shown me the benefit of helping others, especially in lieu of the recent COVID-19 pandemic. I love the idea of having a real, tangible impact on the people of my community, and as nurses are the backbone of the healthcare system, I feel that it's only right to help support that valuable juncture. As for obstacles, nursing school is tough, many nurses get entirely burned out by the time they pass their NCLEX exam. In addition, the profession of nursing itself is notoriously difficult. Patients are known to bite, hit, strangle, or otherwise harm their nurses and we are expected to show up to work the next day anyway (this is why I plan on going into pediatrics or the NICU.)