What inspired me to pursue a career in nursing was not one single moment, but a series of life experiences that gradually revealed my calling to care for others. Growing up in a rural village in Nepal, I often saw people in my community suffer from illnesses without receiving the medical care they needed. Hospitals were far away, and most families could not afford even basic treatment. I remember watching my grandmother struggle with chronic pain, relying only on herbal remedies and prayers because there were no trained professionals to help her. As a child, I didn’t know how to help.I only knew that I wanted to. After moving to the United States, that desire grew stronger. I enrolled in college and started working as a Personal Care Assistant (PCA). That job changed my life. I wasn’t just helping people with their daily tasks; I was listening to their stories, offering comfort, and being a source of support when they felt vulnerable and alone. One day, after helping an elderly woman with her care, she looked at me with tears in her eyes and said, “You make me feel like I matter.” That moment stayed with me. It wasn’t about medicine or procedures it was about kindness, dignity, and connection. That was my true “aha” moment. I knew then that nursing wasn’t just a job for me. It was a calling. Nursing is a profession built on compassion, strength, and resilience. It requires both technical skill and emotional intelligence. What draws me most to this field is the opportunity to be there for people when they are at their most vulnerable to not only treat illness, but to bring comfort, advocacy, and humanity into healthcare. Being an international student has added another layer to this journey. I’ve faced language barriers, cultural adjustments, and financial struggles, but each challenge has only strengthened my determination. I am committed to becoming the kind of nurse who not only performs clinical tasks but also connects with patients on a human level especially in communities that are often underserved or forgotten. Today, I am studying nursing with full dedication and working hard to balance academics, clinical experience, and part-time work. I carry the lessons from my past, the stories of my patients, and my dreams for the future with me every step of the way. Nursing is not just my career choice,it is who I am meant to be.

My Journey to Nursing My name is Prativa Lama, and I am currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at Norwich University. My educational journey has not been easy, but every challenge I have faced has helped shape the person and future nurse. I grew up in a small village in Nepal, where I often witnessed people suffer due to a lack of access to healthcare. My family and neighbors relied on home remedies and prayers because hospitals were far away or unaffordable. Even as a young girl, I felt a deep sadness watching loved ones struggle without proper care. At the time, I didn’t fully understand what nursing was, but I knew I wanted to help people in need. After moving to the United States, I became determined to take my education seriously. I faced language barriers, culture shock, and financial stress, but I continued pushing forward. Initially, I wasn’t sure if I could succeed in nursing. It seemed like such a big dream. But everything changed during my first experience working as a Personal Care Assistant (PCA). One day, I was caring for an elderly woman who was in pain and feeling hopeless. I helped her bathe, made sure she took her medications, and simply sat with her to listen. Before I left, she held my hand and said, “Thank you for treating me like a human being.” That was my “aha” moment. I realized that nursing is not just about giving medications or following procedure it’s about presence, compassion, and human connection. From that moment on, I knew nursing was not just a jobit was my calling. I fully committed to pursuing nursing and never looked back. Today, I spend my days studying hard, working part-time in healthcare, and preparing for clinicals. Every exam, long night, and shift is one step closer to becoming the nurse I dream of being. I chose this path because I want to be the person who shows up when others are scared, in pain, or feeling alone. Nursing gives me the opportunity to make a real difference in people’s lives physically, emotionally, and spiritually. My journey has taught me resilience, empathy, and strength, and I carry those values with me every step of the way toward a future filled with purpose.Looking ahead, I hope to specialize in pediatric or community health nursing, where I can give back to underserved populations. I want to be more than a nurse. I want to be a source of comfort, healing, and hope for those who need it most.

My name is Prativa Lama, and I am a nursing student at Norwich University. I was born and raised in Nepal, a country rich in tradition, culture, and resilience. Even while studying in the United States, I work hard to maintain a connection to my roots through language, food, and especially community. I often cook traditional Nepali meals, celebrate our festivals with friends, and speak my native language with pride. Holding on to my cultural identity reminds me of where I came from and keeps me grounded as I pursue my dreams far from home. One cause I am deeply passionate about is accessible healthcareespecially for women and children in underserved communities. Growing up in a rural village where medical support was limited, I saw many people, particularly women, go without care due to poverty or stigma. As I study nursing and work as a personal care assistant, I carry those memories with me. I actively contribute by caring for patients here in the U.S. and plan to return to Nepal someday to give back through medical outreach and education. A meaningful memory from my childhood that shaped who I am today happened when I was about nine years old. My neighbor, an elderly woman, became seriously ill. Her family could not afford care, and no one in our village had medical training. I remember sitting beside her, holding her hand, and feeling completely helpless. That experience made me realize how valuable nurses are individuals who provide not just physical care, but emotional comfort and dignity. That moment has stayed with me and continues to guide me in every clinical rotation and patient interaction. If I could have dinner with any famous woman, it would be Florence Nightingalethe founder of modern nursing. Her courage, intelligence, and commitment to breaking barriers have inspired me throughout my journey. I would ask her, “How did you stay strong when others doubted your path?” That question resonates deeply with me, especially during moments when I face challenges, self-doubt, and financial stress. I believe her answer would encourage me to keep pushing forward with purpose. In everything I do whether it is sharing my culture, caring for others, or remembering my roots. I strive to bring kindness and hope to the lives I touch. This scholarship would relieve the financial burden I carry as an international student and allow me to focus more fully on my goal of becoming a compassionate, skilled nurse. Thank you for considering my application.

⸻ My name is Prativa Lama, and I am a nursing student at Norwich University. Originally from Nepal, I came to the United States with the dream of building a better future not only for myself but for the community I hope to serve. I’ve always believed that healing is both an art and a science, and nursing allows me to practice both. While studying full-time, I also work as a Personal Care Assistant, which has helped me develop compassion, resilience, and a deeper understanding of patient care. Academically, my goal is to complete my Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and pass the NCLEX exam to become a registered nurse. I am especially passionate about pediatric and community health nursing. Professionally, I aim to work in underserved areas where healthcare access is limited—whether that means rural towns in the U.S. or global mission trips to low-resource communities. I want to make a difference in the lives of people who are often overlooked or forgotten in the healthcare system. Long-term, I hope to further my education and become a Nurse Practitioner, providing both preventative and acute care to families in need. This scholarship would make a significant impact on my life. As an international student, I face unique financial challenges. I am not eligible for federal aid, and my tuition costs are high. Despite working part-time jobs, I am still struggling to pay for school and living expenses. I often have to choose between extra work hours or study time, and it’s a constant balancing act. This scholarship would allow me to focus more on my education and clinical training without the added stress of financial insecurity. It would also bring me one step closer to fulfilling my dream of becoming a nurse who serves with heart and purpose. To cover the cost of my education, I am working multiple jobs during school breaks and weekends. I also share housing with a friend to reduce rent and limit other personal expenses as much as possible. I apply for every scholarship opportunity I qualify for and remain dedicated to maintaining strong academic performance. I’m doing everything I can to make this dream a reality, but I still need support. Receiving this scholarship would not just help me financially—it would affirm that my hard work, determination, and goals matter. I am ready to give everything I have to this path, and with your support, I know I can succeed and give back to the world in a meaningful way. Thank you for considering my application.

Growing up in a Buddhist family, I was taught from an early age to value compassion, mindfulness, and the importance of inner peace. Buddhism is not just a religion to me. it’s a way of life that has shaped how I see the world, how I treat others, and how I understand myself. Through its teachings, I’ve learned to stay grounded during difficult times and to approach every situation with a calm heart and a clear mind. As a nursing student, my Buddhist beliefs deeply influence the care I want to provide. The concept of karuna (compassion) guides how I interact with patients—not just treating their physical symptoms, but truly seeing them as whole individuals. I believe that healing comes not only from medicine but also from kindness, patience, and presence. Whether someone is recovering from surgery or nearing the end of life, I want to be a gentle and supportive presence for them and their families. My faith has also taught me the importance of service and giving without expecting anything in return. That’s why, once I graduate, I hope to return to rural or underserved communitiesplaces like where I came from and provide care where it’s needed the most. Many people in these areas do not have access to basic healthcare, and I want to be someone who can bring both medical help and emotional comfort. In the future, I also hope to help raise awareness about mental health within the Buddhist community. Sometimes, mental health struggles are overlooked or misunderstood, especially in traditional settings. Using my education and the compassion Buddhism has taught me, I want to break the stigma and encourage open conversations about emotional well-being, especially among the younger generation. Ultimately, my goal is to serve with both skill and heart. My Buddhist upbringing has made me more sensitive to suffering and more dedicated to bringing relief. I don’t just want to be a nurse. I want to be a source of light for others during their darkest moments. I believe that through kindness, mindfulness, and service, I can truly make a difference in people’s lives and in the world.As a Buddhist, I’ve learned to lead with compassion and mindfulness. These values inspire my nursing journey. I hope to bring healing to underserved communities, especially in rural areas. My goal is to serve with kindness and raise awareness about mental health. Through service, I want to give back and be a light to others.

Growing up in a rural village where access to healthcare was limited, I witnessed the silent suffering of many especially the elderly, women, and children who often went without proper medical attention. I remember the helplessness I felt as a young girl, seeing neighbors fall sick with no one qualified to care for them. Those moments planted a seed in me a deep desire to be someone who could help, heal, and offer hope. That is why I chose the field of nursing. Nursing is more than just a career to me it is a mission of service. It’s the heart of healthcare, where science meets compassion. What draws me to this field is not just the ability to treat physical symptoms, but the privilege of being present for people during their most vulnerable moments. The idea that I could help ease someone’s pain, calm their fears, or simply be a source of comfort during a hard time is incredibly meaningful to me. I am currently pursuing my Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Norwich University. As I walk through this journey, each class, clinical, and shift as a Personal Care Assistant (PCA) reinforces my passion. I’ve had the honor of helping patients bathe, dress, eat, and manage their medications. But what stays with me most are the quiet moments when a patient holds my hand and says, “Thank you for being here.” These small words remind me why I chose nursing. In the future, I hope to use my degree to work in underserved communities both locally and globally. My dream is to become a pediatric nurse and eventually join medical mission trips to places where children lack even the most basic care. I want to be a voice for those who cannot speak for themselves and an advocate for families who feel lost in the healthcare system. This path has not been easy. As an international student, I’ve faced financial challenges, long hours, and the stress of being far from family. But I carry with me the hope of a better future not just for myself, but for those I will serve. I am determined to turn every struggle into strength and every hardship into purpose. This degree is more than a piece of paper to me. It is a promise to my younger self, to my family, and to every patient I will care for that I will never stop trying to make a difference. And that promise is what keeps.

Ever since I was young, I have been drawn to the idea of caring for others. Growing up in a close-knit community, I often saw neighbors and relatives struggle with health issues and limited access to care. Witnessing the impact of compassionate healthcare inspired me to pursue a career where I could make a difference in people’s lives. Nursing, to me, is not just a profession—it is a calling that blends compassion, science, and service. I am currently a nursing student at Norwich University, where I’ve gained both academic knowledge and hands-on experience through clinical rotations and personal care assistant (PCA) work. These experiences have confirmed that I made the right choice. I’ve assisted patients with daily living tasks, offered emotional support, and witnessed the powerful impact that attentive, skilled nursing care can have on someone’s healing journey. These moments have deepened my passion and commitment to this field. My primary interest lies in pediatric nursing. I believe that children are incredibly resilient, but they also require a unique approach to care ,one that combines gentleness with knowledge and creativity. Working with young patients requires patience, clear communication, and the ability to comfort both the child and their family. I’m inspired by the idea of supporting a child not just physically, but emotionally, helping them feel safe and understood during times of fear or discomfort. I hope to work in a pediatric unit where I can advocate for children’s needs and contribute to their long-term well-being. To prepare myself for this journey, I have focused on both academic and practical learning. My coursework has strengthened my understanding of human biology, pharmacology, and health assessment. In addition, I’ve taken the opportunity to work as a PCA, which has taught me the value of empathy, effective communication, and teamwork. I’ve also participated in simulation labs that sharpen my clinical judgment and response in critical situations. Beyond technical skills, I have learned the importance of emotional resilience and self-care essential traits for any nurse. I’ve spent time volunteering and listening to patients’ stories, realizing that sometimes, healing begins simply with being heard and seen. These lessons continue to shape the kind of nurse I aspire to be: one who is competent, compassionate, and committed to continuous learning. As I move forward, I am excited to deepen my knowledge, earn my RN license, and eventually specialize in pediatrics. Nursing is more than a job it’s my purpose, and I am ready to dedicate myself fully to this journey.

I’ve always believed that compassion is the most valid form of strength. Growing up, I admired those who could care for others selflessly — especially nurses. My decision to pursue a career in nursing comes from a deep desire to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives, particularly during their most vulnerable moments. Nursing is not just a job but a commitment to healing, empathy, and human connection. My interest in nursing grew stronger after a family member became critically ill. Watching the nurses care for her with patience, kindness, and skill left a lasting impression on me. They did more than administer medications or monitor vitals; they provided emotional comfort and dignity during difficult times. That experience made me realize how decisive the role of a nurse can be, and I knew I wanted to dedicate my life to that kind of service. As I began my studies in nursing, I discovered a strong interest in pediatric care. Working with children is incredibly special — their innocence, resilience, and honesty remind us of the importance of hope. Children don’t always understand what’s happening to them, and that can make hospital experiences scary and confusing. Pediatric nurses have the unique ability to bring calm and comfort not only to the child but to the family as well. That balance of clinical care and emotional support is something I want to grow into. Pediatric nursing also allows me to make an impact early in someone’s life. Whether it’s helping a newborn recover or supporting a teenager through chronic illness, I see this field as an opportunity to build trust and create long-term healing. I am particularly interested in helping underserved communities with limited access to pediatric care. Every child deserves to feel safe and cared for, regardless of background or circumstances. As an international student studying nursing in the United States, I’ve faced many personal challenges, including cultural adjustments, financial stress, and being far from family. But those experiences have made me stronger, more empathetic, and more committed to my goals. My background gives me a unique perspective that I can bring into pediatric nursing, one that values resilience, kindness, and cultural sensitivity. In the future, I hope to become a certified pediatric nurse and eventually work in children’s hospitals or community clinics. I want to provide care, comfort, laughter, and strength to young patients and their families. Nursing, to me, is a lifelong promise, and I am ready to keep that promise for every child who needs it.

As a young woman who grew up in Southeast Asia, I’ve seen firsthand the quiet strength of Filipino women and the silent struggles many of them endure. While the Philippines has made progress in promoting gender equality, deep-rooted challenges still prevent many women from realizing their full potential. One of the significant barriers facing Filipino women is limited access to education. In rural areas, many girls are forced to leave school early due to poverty, early pregnancy, or cultural expectations to stay home and help their families. Without education, opportunities for personal and financial independence become limited. Healthcare access is another major concern, especially reproductive health services. Many women lack the knowledge, support, or resources to make informed decisions about their bodies and futures. Beyond these structural challenges, Filipino women also face gender-based discrimination and social pressure. Cultural norms often prioritize women as caregivers, placing their needs and dreams second to the needs of their families. Many experience domestic abuse, workplace inequality, and emotional burdens they are expected to carry in silence. For overseas Filipino workers—many of whom are women—the risks of exploitation, isolation, and abuse remain high, often with little protection. If empowered, Filipino women have the strength to uplift not just themselves but entire communities. As a nursing student, I plan to use my education to help create change in the lives of women back home. I dream of returning to the Philippines and helping establish community-based health education programs focusing on women’s health, mental well-being, and reproductive rights. I want to make healthcare more accessible and ensure women feel seen, heard, and respected. In the future, I also hope to mentor young girls and aspiring healthcare professionals to help them believe in their worth and power. Women become unstoppable when given a voice and the tools to take control of their futures. Being far from home and pursuing my nursing degree has shown me what’s possible when someone is given a chance. I want to use the opportunity I’ve been given to help others. I also believe that the nursing profession is evolving, and I want to be a part of that progress. Whether it’s through learning new technologies, supporting mental health, or advocating for equitable care, I want to be a nurse who adapts and leads. My dream is not just to graduate, but to continue learning throughout my career possibly earning a master’s degree in nursing or becoming a nurse practitioner in the future. My passion, persistence, and empathy are the foundation of everything I do, and I hope to bring that into every room I walk into, every patient I meet, and every challenge I face as a future nurse.

The nursing industry interests me because it is a career that blends compassion with clinical skills. It is one of the few professions that allows you to make a direct and meaningful impact in someone’s life physically and emotionally. I’ve always had a strong desire to care for others, and nursing allows me to serve people during their most vulnerable moments with kindness and knowledge. My goal is to become a registered nurse and eventually work in a clinical setting where I can support underserved communities. I want to gain real-world experience in hospitals or clinics and, one day, specialize in critical care or mental health nursing. I am particularly passionate about being a calm presence for patients who feel scared, isolated, or uncertain — the same way I once saw a nurse support my family member during a difficult health crisis. That moment — watching a nurse gently care for my aunt during her illness — became a turning point for me. I saw how much difference one person could make just by being there, listening, and showing care. From that day on, I knew I wanted to be that kind of person for someone else. It showed me that nursing isn’t just about medicine; it’s about human connection. As an international student pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Norwich University, I’ve already taken steps toward these goals. I’ve worked hard to balance school and life in a new country, strengthening my independence and resilience. Although I have not yet had a formal internship, I currently work as a Personal Care Assistant (PCA), which has given me hands-on experience providing care, building trust with patients, and supporting them in daily activities. This work has improved my confidence and confirmed my love for direct patient care. My biggest accomplishment so far is pursuing nursing despite financial and personal challenges. I’ve taken responsibility for my education by working while studying, and every small step I take, from finishing a challenging exam to helping a patient feel comfortable, brings me closer to the nurse I want to become. Nursing is not just a job. It’s a calling that requires heart, humility, and constant growth. The journey won’t be easy, but I’m determined to succeed. I’m excited to keep learning, growing, and one day becoming the kind of nurse who treats symptoms and brings peace to patients and families alike. Thank you for your service.

Since I was a young girl, I’ve found profound meaning in caring for others. I grew up in a family and community where we supported each other through everything: joy, illness, and loss. That early exposure to compassion made a lasting impression on me, and I always knew I wanted to do something that involved helping people in their most vulnerable moments. My decision to pursue nursing became clear during my teenage years when a close family member fell seriously ill. I witnessed the tireless work of nurses in a small clinic near our home, not just their medical skills but their kindness, calmness, and constant presence. They were more than healthcare professionals; they were sources of strength and hope. I still remember how one nurse gently held my aunt’s hand and spoke softly to her during a painful treatment. That moment stayed with me. It showed me that healing isn’t just about medicine. It’s also about empathy. As I’ve grown, so has my desire to become that kind of presence for others. I chose to study nursing because it is a career where I can combine my compassion with knowledge, action, and service. It offers me the chance to provide comfort, guidance, and strength just as those nurses were to my family. In addition to that experience, I’ve always felt drawn to the human side of healthcare. Science has fascinated me, but the personal connection truly motivates me. In nursing, I see the chance to be on the front lines of care, build relationships with patients, and support them physically and emotionally. I want to be someone patients can trust, listen deeply, and advocate for them when they can’t do so for themselves. Being an international student has added more meaning to this dream. I’ve had to work hard, be independent, and manage many challenges independently, which has only strengthened my determination. Nursing is not an easy path, but I feel deeply committed to it. I’m not just choosing a job but a life of service. This scholarship would ease the financial strain of my journey and allow me to focus more fully on learning and growing into the best nurse I can be. I am ready to take on this responsibility and make a difference in the lives of others, not just in words but through every action, every shift, and every moment of care. I found this scholarship through Bold.org