I was taught that taking on debt meant you did not have the means to achieve what you wanted. Debt was seen as a consequence of not working hard enough or not being good enough to reach a goal. In my culture, accruing debt was strongly discouraged and because education often required loans, pursuing higher education was also highly discouraged. For me, I realized that the only thing standing between me and my goals was fear, specifically my fear of debt. Many unknowns came with taking on debt as an immigrant woman with no family support, chasing a life built solely on a dream with no backup plan or anything to fall back on. I decided that student debt was a risk I was willing to take. My goal was to become a nurse and create opportunities for myself that my family could only dream of. Going against my family's wishes, I pursued my undergraduate education knowing that the financial responsibility would fall on me alone. As a low-income refugee immigrant, I learned early that I had to be resourceful. I worked throughout high school while secretly saving whatever I could for college. I applied for scholarships and continued to work throughout college to supplement my expenses. During college, I remember selling my meal cards to afford textbooks. I nannied almost every day after classes and saved enough money to purchase a used car. That car eventually became a place where I could sleep so I could save money on student housing. These were not easy sacrifices, but they were sacrifices I was willing to endure because I knew what I was working toward. Giving up comfort became a habit, and it motivated me to keep going. After graduating with my nursing degree, I knew I wanted to continue advancing my education. I continued the discipline of saving and began working overtime. I put the extra money I earned into an education fund so I could prepare for graduate school while also paying my existing student loans. As a full-time nurse, I continued to live as minimally and cost-efficiently as I could. When I entered my doctoral program in nurse anesthesia, I learned that nursing was not considered a professional degree, and this limited the amount of federal funding I could receive. While this created another financial obstacle, it did not change my motivation. To address my current and future student loan debt, I have continued applying for scholarships, working as much as my academic schedule allows while using my savings strategically. I have also utilized the maximum amount of federal loans available. My goal has been to borrow only what I need for tuition while continuing to find other ways to reduce the amount I will owe. I recognize that taking on student debt is a significant responsibility, but I also see it as an investment in my future. My doctoral degree in nurse anesthesia will be my terminal degree, and I plan to use the career opportunities it provides to repay my loans responsibly. More importantly, I want to eventually create more scholarships to give back to other students like me. I have faced financial obstacles throughout my education, but each one has taught me to be more disciplined and determined than before. I do not know exactly what challenges I will face after graduation, but I know that I have overcome every obstacle by continuing to work toward the life I envisioned for myself.

My mother was one of nine children raised in a small rural village in Angamaly, Kerala. She grew up in poverty, and unlike many women in her community who were expected to marry young and become homemakers, she became the first in her family to pursue higher education. Her determination to challenge those expectations changed the trajectory of our family's future. Watching her resilience taught me that when one person breaks through barriers, they create opportunities for others to follow. After immigrating to the United States, my family faced language barriers, financial hardship, housing instability, and unfamiliar systems. One of those systems was public school. Because of interruptions in my education, I did not begin formal schooling until shortly before high school and entered the classroom significantly behind my peers. Learning a new language while trying to catch up academically often left me feeling inadequate and at risk of falling through the cracks. Everything changed when a teacher recognized my potential and stayed after school each day to help rebuild my educational foundation and close the gaps I had missed. With her encouragement and years of perseverance, I graduated near the top of my class, earned a scholarship to UCLA as a DACA student, later completed my Master of Science in Nursing, and am now pursuing my Doctor of Nursing Practice in Nurse Anesthesia at UC Davis. My immigrant experience also shaped my career aspirations in a deeply personal way. At fifteen years old, I suffered a severe shoulder dislocation during a basketball game. Multiple attempts were made to reduce my shoulder without adequate pain control while my parents struggled to advocate for me because of language barriers and unfamiliarity with the healthcare system. I remember feeling helpless and scared. Everything changed when a certified registered nurse anesthetist stepped into the room. Although I did not understand her role at the time, I remember exactly how she made me feel. She brought a sense of safety and relief during one of the most frightening moments of my life. Looking back, I realize she did much more than provide anesthesia. She became my advocate when I could not advocate for myself. That experience inspired the career I am pursuing today. As a pediatric intensive care unit nurse, I now have the privilege of caring for critically ill children and supporting families during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. My own experiences have made me especially aware of how vulnerable patients and families can feel when language, culture, or limited resources create barriers to care. I strive to ensure every family feels heard, respected, and supported, regardless of their background. My long-term goal is to become a pediatric certified registered nurse anesthetist and improve access to anesthesia care for children in underserved and rural communities where shortages in healthcare providers continue to limit access to safe surgical care. I also hope to establish an organization that brings teams of anesthesia providers to rural regions of India to deliver pediatric surgical and anesthesia services while supporting local healthcare providers. My immigrant experience has inspired me to give back to the communities I come from. It taught me that compassionate care extends beyond clinical skills. It is about restoring trust, advocating for those who feel unheard, and using every opportunity I have been given to create opportunities for others. That is the nurse anesthetist I aspire to become and the legacy I hope to leave through compassionate service for future generations of children, families, and underserved communities everywhere with compassion always.

J&Y Law Yahouda Yahoudai Service Scholarship 2026- Priscilla Joy My mother was one of nine children raised in a small, rural village in Angamaly, Kerala. She grew up in poverty and became the only child in her family to leave home and pursue higher education. My grandparents could not read or write, and many women in my family were expected to marry young and become homemakers. My mother challenged those expectations and created a different future for herself and for me. Watching her resilience taught me that when one person challenges limitations, new possibilities emerge for everyone. Because of her, I learned that when one person advances, it creates opportunities for others to follow. That belief has guided every decision I make. After immigrating to the United States, my family faced language barriers, financial hardship, housing instability, and unfamiliar systems. I entered school academically behind my peers and often felt inadequate. A mentor who believed in my potential helped me rebuild my academic foundation. I earned a scholarship to UCLA, later completed my Master of Science in Nursing, and am now pursuing my Doctor of Nursing Practice in Nurse Anesthesia at UC Davis. My experiences taught me that success is never achieved alone. It is built through community and the encouragement of people who choose to invest and believe in others. As a pediatric intensive care unit nurse, I cared for critically ill children and supported families during some of the hardest moments of their lives. Whether through patient advocacy, clinical competence, or compassion, I strive to ensure every child and family feels understood and cared for. Those experiences strengthened my commitment to serving and empowering vulnerable communities beyond the hospital. I now volunteer with World Relief Sacramento, where I teach literacy skills to immigrant women who have had limited access to formal education. Many arrive nervous and scared, but week after week, they return determined to learn. Their perseverance reminds me of my mother and of my own journey. Through literacy education, mentorship, and resources, I help women find their voice to advocate for themselves, communicate independently, pursue employment, and support their families. I have watched women read prescription instructions, schedule appointments, ask for interpreter services, and experience independence for the first time. Those moments remind me that empowerment begins with access to opportunities, but it grows when people feel supported, valued, and capable of pursuing them. My contribution to my community is not simply teaching literacy or caring for critically ill children. It is helping create opportunities that allow women and children to thrive together. When one person rises, they create opportunities for others to rise alongside them, strengthening families and building healthier communities for generations to come. Everything I have accomplished has been possible because someone believed in me before I fully believed in myself. My mother challenged generational expectations to pave the way for me, and my mentor opened doors that once seemed impossible. Their investment in me inspires me to extend the same hand to others. Every person who feels empowered strengthens a family, every strengthened family enriches a community, and every act of compassionate service creates another opportunity for someone else to succeed. That is the legacy I hope to leave through my service, my profession, and my commitment to empowering others every day.

My Indian heritage is rooted in resilience, sacrifice, and a belief that education can transform a family’s future. My mother was one of nine children raised in a rural village in Angamaly, Kerala. She grew up in poverty and became the only child in her family to leave home and pursue higher education. My grandparents could not read or write, and many women in my family were expected to marry young and become homemakers. Women were discouraged from higher education, leadership, and professional careers. My mother challenged those expectations and created a different future for herself and for me. Watching her resilience taught me what women are capable of and what becomes possible when one challenges herself. Her example shaped my understanding of empowerment as the courage to pursue opportunities that once seemed out of reach. Because of her, I learned that when one woman advances, it creates possibilities for others to follow. She carries the ability to give back and strengthen her community, making her success collective rather than individual. Her journey became the foundation for my own, inspiring me to pursue education, embrace leadership, and help create opportunities for women around me. My own journey has been shaped by many of the same challenges my family faced. After immigrating to the United States, I navigated language barriers, financial hardship, housing instability, and unfamiliar systems. I entered school academically behind my peers and often felt at risk of falling through the cracks. Rather than allowing those obstacles to define me, I worked tenaciously to overcome them. With the support of female mentors who believed in my potential, I rebuilt my academic foundation, earned a scholarship to UCLA, and eventually completed my Master of Science in Nursing. Today, I am a pediatric intensive care unit nurse, where I have the privilege of caring for critically ill children and supporting families during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. In a demanding profession where there is constant pressure to perform at a high level, I strive to model confidence, compassion, and support for younger women entering healthcare. Whether precepting new nurses, mentoring students, or sharing my story, I hope to demonstrate that diversity is a strength and that adversity does not determine potential but produces growth and determination. What sets one person apart is not a weakness but a strength. Representation matters, and every time a young woman sees someone with a similar background succeed, new possibilities become visible. My commitment to women’s empowerment extends beyond the hospital through my volunteer work with World Relief Sacramento. I teach literacy skills to immigrant women who have had limited access to formal education. Many arrive nervous and uncertain, yet they return each week.The strength I witnessed in my mother and within my own journey is reflected in these women as they overcome barriers. Through literacy education, resource support, and mentorship, I help women build confidence in their ability to advocate for themselves and their families. While I teach reading, writing, and everyday life skills, I am often inspired by their dedication and resilience to learn something new. Empowerment begins with access to knowledge and opportunities, but it grows when women feel supported and valued. Seeing a woman gain confidence, pursue employment, communicate independently, or support her children’s education reminds me that empowerment creates a ripple effect across families, communities, and future generations. Women’s empowerment means extending the same hand that was once offered to me and investing in others so they can discover potential.

Growing up, I was told I could not play sports because I was a girl. I came from a traditional culture where there were clear expectations for women, where women were expected to be homemakers. I never questioned why I wasn't allowed to play or whether I had any athletic abilities to show for it. I simply accepted it. Moving to America was a culture shock. For the first time, I saw women as athletes, leaders, and professionals confidently doing things I once believed were not possible. Over time, my thinking slowly began to change, but there was still a part of me that felt bound by the beliefs I grew up with. I have two older brothers, and growing up I watched them play sports. Basketball fascinated me the most. There was something about the game that drew me in. I would watch my brothers through the window and sit on the playground during recess studying other kids as they played. I paid attention to every pass, every shot, and every movement. Even though I wasn't allowed to participate, I loved the game from a distance. When I reached high school, I saw a flyer for basketball tryouts. An old friend was planning to try out and invited me to join her. I remember feeling jealous that she could do something I had always wanted to do. Then I realized I had nothing to lose. I told myself I was only going to watch, which was what I always did anyway. I showed up wearing Converse and my school clothes. The coach looked at me and asked if I was there for tryouts. Nervously, I said yes, knowing I was about to go against everything I had been taught growing up. I lined up with the other girls and copied everything they did. I had no experience, no conditioning, and no understanding of the fundamentals. I was completely out of place. At the end of the week, I approached the coach and asked if there was any way I could help the team as a tutor or bench player. He told me there was no room, but he appreciated my effort. On the final day of tryouts, one player never showed up. A spot opened, and he offered it to me with the understanding that I would serve as the team tutor and help set up and clean up for practices and games. For four years, I lived a double life. I left home carrying books and reading glasses so my parents would think I was attending clubs or study groups. Instead, I changed into basketball clothes at a friend's house and went to practice. I arrived early, stayed late, sought extra coaching, and joined every optional practice I could. I started as the last player on the bench. By my second year, I earned the Most Improved Player and Coach's Award. By my third year, I was a varsity starter and earned Defensive Player of the Year. Looking back, basketball taught me far more than teamwork and discipline. It taught me that I am willing to start behind, embrace being uncomfortable, and work hard for opportunities that are not handed to me. More importantly, it taught me to question limitations and believe in myself even when no one else did. What makes me different is not that I played basketball. It is that stepping onto that court was the first time I chose my own path instead of the one that had been chosen for me.

Growing up as a refugee immigrant, I learned early that access to knowledge can change the course of a life. My family arrived in the United States with limited resources, little understanding of the healthcare system, and many barriers that made even simple tasks feel overwhelming. Those experiences taught me the value of education and resilience. They also shaped my commitment to pursuing a career that combines science, service, and advocacy. At fifteen, I suffered a severe shoulder dislocation during a basketball game. I was in excruciating pain as multiple attempts were made to reduce the joint. Because of language barriers and unfamiliarity with the healthcare system, my parents were unable to advocate for me. I felt helpless and afraid. After several unsuccessful attempts, a certified registered nurse anesthetist stepped in. I did not understand her role at the time, but I remember the calm and relief she brought to a frightening situation. That experience sparked my interest in healthcare and ultimately inspired my goal of becoming a pediatric CRNA. My path to nursing was not traditional. I did not receive formal education until shortly before high school and entered the classroom significantly behind my peers. There were many moments when catching up felt impossible. Instead of allowing those obstacles to define me, I became determined to learn. With support from dedicated teachers and countless hours of hard work, I rebuilt my academic foundation. I graduated as valedictorian and earned a scholarship to attend UCLA, where I studied Sociology and developed a deeper understanding of the social determinants of health. Today, I am a pediatric intensive care unit nurse caring for critically ill children and their families. Nursing has shown me that science and compassion are inseparable. Every medication, intervention, and clinical decision relies on evidence-based practice, but every patient also deserves empathy and human connection. Working in critical care has strengthened my clinical judgment while reinforcing the importance of lifelong learning. It has also fueled my desire to continue advancing my education through nurse anesthesia training. Outside of work, I volunteer with World Relief Sacramento, teaching literacy skills to immigrant women who have had limited access to education. Sharing practical resources and helping them navigate unfamiliar systems reminds me why knowledge matters. Their determination inspires me to keep learning, keep serving, and create opportunities for others to thrive. What excites me most about STEM is its ability to solve complex problems and improve lives. Curiosity has been a driving force throughout my journey, whether I was learning a new language, mastering difficult coursework, or caring for critically ill patients. I am drawn to anesthesia because it requires continuous learning, critical thinking, and the ability to apply science in high-stakes situations. As a future CRNA, I hope to use those skills to expand access to anesthesia care for children in underserved and rural communities. As a woman pursuing an advanced practice role in healthcare, I understand the importance of representation and mentorship. I hope to contribute to a community of women who encourage one another to ask questions, seek knowledge, and pursue ambitious goals. This scholarship would help support my education while allowing me to focus on developing the skills necessary to serve vulnerable populations. More importantly, it would connect me with a network of women who share a commitment to learning, leadership, and service. I am eager to contribute my experiences, continue growing as a clinician, and use STEM to create meaningful change for children and families.

To me, selflessness means using my skills and experiences to help others overcome barriers. Throughout my life, there have been people who invested their time and confidence in me when they had no obligation to do so. Their support helped shape the person I am today. Because of that, I believe one of the best ways to give back is by using my education to create opportunities for others. One of the most meaningful ways I serve others is through my volunteer work with World Relief Sacramento. Through this organization, I work with immigrant women, many of whom have little or no formal education. Some are learning basic literacy skills for the first time, while others are trying to navigate healthcare systems, schools, transportation, and community resources in a new country. I help women identify resources that allow them to become more independent and confident advocates for themselves and their families. I understand many of the challenges they face because me and my family also immigrated to the United States and had to learn how to navigate unfamiliar systems. Whether I am helping someone understand medical jargon or access community services, my goal is to provide tools that will continue benefiting them long after our interaction ends. One woman I worked with had never attended school and depended heavily on others for everyday tasks. Over time, she learned basic literacy skills and became more comfortable navigating resources on her own. Watching her confidence grow reminded me that helping someone is not always about solving a problem for them. Sometimes it is about empowering them with the knowledge and skills needed to solve future problems independently. I also embody selflessness through my work as a pediatric intensive care unit nurse. Every day, I care for critically ill children and support families during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. While clinical skills are essential, I have learned that families often remember how they were treated during times of fear and uncertainty. Taking the time to listen, answer questions, advocate, and provide reassurance can be just as meaningful as any medication or procedure. In those moments, I strive to provide safety and compassion. My desire to serve others is connected to my own journey. As an immigrant, I faced language barriers, educational setbacks, financial hardship, housing instability, and the challenge of adapting to unfamiliar systems. I did not receive formal education until shortly before high school and entered the public school system behind my peers. With the support of dedicated teachers and mentors, I rebuilt my academic foundation, graduated as valedictorian, earned a scholarship to attend UCLA, and later became a pediatric ICU nurse. Those experiences taught me that success is rarely achieved alone. Someone took the time to help me when I needed it most, and I feel a responsibility to do the same for others. Selflessness is not about recognition or reward. It is about investing in people, empowering them to succeed, and helping them see possibilities they may not yet see in themselves. Whether I am teaching literacy skills, connecting families with resources, or caring for ill children, my goal is always the same: to leave people feeling more supported, empowered, and hopeful than they were before.

My Indian heritage is rooted in resilience, sacrifice, and the belief that education can change a family’s future. My father was one of fourteen children raised in Punalur, Kerala, and my mother was one of nine children raised in Angamaly, Kerala. Both grew up in poverty, yet they became the only children in their respective families to pursue higher education. My grandparents were unable to read or write, and many of the women in my family married young and were expected to become homemakers. My mother broke those expectations by pursuing an education, creating a different future for herself and for me. After completing their education, my parents moved to Dubai in search of greater opportunity and financial stability. I was born and raised there and witnessed the determination it took to build a life without the support of extended family. They later immigrated to the United States for better opportunities. Like many immigrants, they had to start over. Their education and professional experience were not fully recognized, requiring them to repeat coursework, rebuild their careers, and work their way back up. Over the years, immigration challenges also limited our ability to travel abroad and maintain connections with relatives in India. My family’s journey profoundly shaped my educational path. As an immigrant, I experienced many of the same struggles my parents faced. I encountered language barriers, financial hardship, housing instability, and the challenge of navigating unfamiliar systems. I did not receive formal education until shortly before high school and entered the public school system behind my peers. Rather than allowing those circumstances to define me, I worked relentlessly to overcome them. With the support of a dedicated teacher, I rebuilt my academic foundation, graduated as valedictorian, and earned a scholarship to attend UCLA. My parents’ example taught me that obstacles are not excuses to give up but opportunities to persevere. Today, I am pursuing my goal of becoming a pediatric nurse anesthetist. While I have worked hard to prepare financially, the cost of graduate education remains significant. Nurse anesthesia school requires full-time study and extensive clinical training, greatly limiting my ability to work while enrolled. My savings will help cover a portion of tuition and living expenses, but they will not be sufficient to meet the full cost of attendance. I have received scholarship support and will continue seeking additional aid, but substantial financial need remains. Because my program demands rigorous coursework and clinical training, the expenses accumulate quickly. This scholarship would help reduce the financial burden of tuition, fees, educational materials, and clinical expenses. More importantly, it would allow me to focus my energy on becoming the best provider possible. My long-term goal is to improve access to healthcare and eventually give back through service in rural and underserved regions of India. My family’s story began with limited educational opportunities in Kerala. This support would help me continue that legacy of perseverance, educational advancement, and service to others.

My long-term goal is to become a pediatric certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA) and use my training to improve access to anesthesia care for children in underserved and rural communities. This goal is deeply personal. As a refugee immigrant, I experienced firsthand how vulnerable a patient can feel when navigating an unfamiliar healthcare system. As a teenager, I suffered a severe shoulder dislocation, and a CRNA stepped into one of the most frightening moments of my life, providing safety, comfort, and relief when I needed it most. That experience inspired me to pursue a career where I could have the same impact on others. I have intentionally built each step of my career toward this goal. I earned a degree in Sociology from UCLA, where I developed a deeper understanding of how social and economic factors influence health outcomes. I later completed a Master of Science in Nursing and now work as a pediatric intensive care unit nurse caring for critically ill children. Working in the PICU has strengthened my clinical judgment, advocacy skills, and emotional intelligence. These experiences have prepared me for the next step of my journey, which is completing the UC Davis Nurse Anesthesia Program. My primary short-term goal is to successfully complete nurse anesthesia school and become a licensed CRNA. To accomplish this, I have developed a clear plan. The program will require significant time, focus, and financial resources. During training, I will rely on savings, careful budgeting, and scholarship support to help cover tuition, books, clinical expenses, certification fees, and living costs. Scholarships are a critical resource because they reduce the financial burden of graduate education and allow me to focus on becoming the best clinician possible. My budget includes tuition and university fees, educational materials, professional memberships, board examination costs, and emergency expenses. I have spent considerable time planning for these obligations and building financial reserves before starting the program. I understand that unexpected challenges may arise, so I have also created contingency plans that include maintaining an emergency fund, pursuing additional scholarship opportunities, and utilizing available university resources when needed. Equally important are the professional resources that will help me reach my goals. UC Davis provides unique training opportunities in critical access hospitals and medically underserved communities. This experience aligns closely with my career goals and will prepare me to practice in settings where CRNAs play a vital role as independent providers. The knowledge and skills I gain through these experiences will not only strengthen my ability to serve patients locally but also allow me to apply what I learn globally. I plan to learn from experienced CRNAs, anesthesiologists, faculty mentors, and interdisciplinary healthcare teams throughout my training. Their guidance will help me continue developing both a professional network and clinical expertise. After graduation, my goal is to provide high-quality anesthesia care in communities where access to healthcare services is limited. Long term, I hope to participate in and eventually help organize medical outreach efforts that bring pediatric surgical and anesthesia care to underserved regions of India. Achieving this goal will require collaboration, professional networks, ongoing education, and years of clinical experience, but it is a vision I am committed to pursuing. My journey has taught me that meaningful goals are reached through preparation, persistence, and a willingness to adapt when challenges arise. With a strong educational foundation, careful financial planning, mentorship, and scholarship support, I am confident in my ability to achieve my goals and use my training to make a lasting difference in the lives of children and families who need it most.

At fifteen years old, I suffered a severe shoulder dislocation during a basketball game. I was in excruciating pain as multiple attempts were made to reduce the joint without adequate pain control. Because of language barriers and unfamiliarity with the healthcare system, my parents were unable to advocate for me. I felt helpless and afraid. After several unsuccessful attempts, a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) stepped in. At the time, I did not understand her role, but I remember exactly how she made me feel. She brought a sense of relief and calm to a moment that had felt chaotic and overwhelming. She not only protected me from the physical and emotional trauma of surgery, but also became my advocate during one of the most frightening experiences of my life. What I did not realize then was that this would become my very first encounter with a CRNA and the beginning of my career path. As a refugee immigrant, I grew up navigating language barriers, financial hardship, housing instability, and unfamiliar systems. I often witnessed how difficult it was for patients and families to advocate for themselves when they lacked resources or understanding of the healthcare system. As a future pediatric CRNA, I will get to provide children and their families the same sense of safety and advocacy that first inspired me to pursue this profession. My educational journey was far from traditional. Due to interruptions in my education, I did not receive formal schooling until shortly before high school and entered the public school system significantly behind my peers. However, with the support of dedicated teachers and countless hours of hard work, I gradually built the foundation I had been missing. I graduated as valedictorian and earned a scholarship to attend UCLA. At UCLA, I studied Sociology, where I developed a deeper understanding of the social determinants of health and how socioeconomic factors influence patient outcomes. This perspective strengthened my desire to pursue nursing and advocate for underserved populations. I later earned my Master of Science in Nursing and now work as a pediatric ICU nurse caring for critically ill children and their families. Working in the pediatric ICU has reinforced why I chose this profession. Every day, I have the privilege of caring for patients and families during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. Outside of nursing, one of my greatest passions is playing basketball. Growing up, I was not allowed to participate in organized sports and had no athletic experience. During my freshman year of high school, I surprised myself by trying out for the basketball team. I quickly realized how much I lacked compared to other players. I did not know the fundamentals, struggled with conditioning, and had very little understanding of the game. I barely made the team and was initially told I would serve primarily as a practice player. Instead of giving up, I committed myself to improving. I spent extra hours practicing, worked one-on-one with my coach, and dedicated myself to learning the fundamentals. Over time, I progressed from being the last player on the bench to earning a spot in the starting lineup. I received the Most Improved Player Award, Most Defensive Player Award, and Coach's MVP. By my junior year, I was part of the varsity team that advanced to the regional finals for the first time in school history.Today, I continue to play on a coed basketball team where I am the only woman on my team. Basketball reminds me of a lesson that has guided every stage of my life: I am not afraid to start behind and work hard to earn my place. Whether in academics, athletics, or healthcare, I have learned that growth comes from showing up consistently, embracing challenges, and putting in the work required to improve. Nursing and basketball both reflect the values that drive me: resilience, humility, perseverance, and service. They have taught me that success is not defined by where you start, but by your willingness to keep moving forward. As I begin the UC Davis Doctor of Nursing Practice Nurse Anesthesia program in Summer 2026, this scholarship would help alleviate the significant financial burden associated with doctoral education and reduce the student loans required to complete my training.

At fifteen, I suffered a severe shoulder dislocation during a basketball game. I was in excruciating pain as multiple manual attempts were made to reduce the joint without adequate analgesia. Because of language barriers and unfamiliarity with the healthcare system, my parents were unable to advocate for me. I felt helpless and afraid at that time. After several unsuccessful attempts, a certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA) stepped in. I did not know her role at the time, but I remember exactly how she made me feel. She brought a sense of calm, safety, and relief in a moment that had felt chaotic and overwhelming. What I did not realize back then, but understand now, is that this was my first encounter with a CRNA, and it became the start of my journey. My background as a low income refugee immigrant has also shaped who I am. I had to learn a new language while facing financial hardship, housing instability, and navigating unfamiliar systems. I was at risk of falling through the cracks, especially within the public school system. I did not receive formal education until right before high school and was significantly behind academically. Instead of allowing that setback to define me, I used it as motivation to work harder. I sought help from a teacher who worked with me daily to rebuild my foundation and close those gaps. Through that process, I learned that I am not afraid to start behind and work hard to earn my place. Through persistence and discipline, I graduated as valedictorian and earned a scholarship to attend UCLA. At UCLA, my degree in Sociology helped me develop a deeper understanding of the social determinants of health and how they affect patient outcomes. This perspective strengthened my awareness and empathy for underserved populations and guided my decision to pursue nursing. I went on to earn my Master of Science in Nursing and now work in the pediatric intensive care unit. As a pediatric ICU nurse, I get to be the person who steps into someone’s worst moment and helps them feel safe. I see how vulnerable patients are and how important it is to not only excel clinically, but also provide emotional support to both patients and their families. These experiences have strengthened my desire to advance my training in anesthesia, where I can have an even greater impact on patient safety and overall experience. As a future pediatric CRNA, I will get to protect children from both the physical and emotional trauma of surgery, and that gives me a deep sense of purpose. This scholarship will support my education in the UC Davis nurse anesthesia program and allow me to continue building the clinical skills needed to serve at a higher level. My long term goal is to work in critically underserved and rural communities, where access to anesthesia care is limited. I grew up in a rural village and have seen how shortages in healthcare providers can delay or prevent life saving care. I want to expand access to safe anesthesia care for pediatric patients in these areas. I hope to eventually establish an organization of providers who travel annually to rural regions of India to deliver pediatric surgical and anesthesia care. What makes my journey unique is not just the challenges I have faced to get me to this point in my career, but how those experiences have shaped my purpose to give back and serve. With this scholarship, I will continue to grow into a provider who contributes to health equity and expanding access.

At fifteen, I suffered a severe shoulder dislocation during a basketball game. I was in excruciating pain as multiple manual attempts were made to reduce the joint without adequate analgesia. Because of language barriers and unfamiliarity with the healthcare system, my parents were unable to advocate for me. I felt helpless and afraid at that time. After several unsuccessful attempts, a certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA) stepped in. I did not know her role at the time, but I remember exactly how she made me feel. She brought a sense of calm, safety, and relief in a moment that had felt chaotic and overwhelming. What I did not realize back then, but understand now, is that this was my first encounter with a CRNA, and it became the start of my journey. My background as a low income refugee immigrant has also shaped who I am. I had to learn a new language while facing financial hardship, housing instability, and navigating unfamiliar systems. I was at risk of falling through the cracks, especially within the public school system. I did not receive formal education until right before high school and was significantly behind academically. Instead of allowing that setback to define me, I used it as motivation to work harder. I sought help from a teacher who worked with me daily to rebuild my foundation and close those gaps. Through that process, I learned that I am not afraid to start behind and work hard to earn my place. Through persistence and discipline, I graduated as valedictorian and earned a scholarship to attend UCLA. At UCLA, my degree in Sociology helped me develop a deeper understanding of the social determinants of health and how they affect patient outcomes. This perspective strengthened my awareness and empathy for underserved populations and guided my decision to pursue nursing. I went on to earn my Master of Science in Nursing and now work in the pediatric intensive care unit. As a pediatric ICU nurse, I get to be the person who steps into someone’s worst moment and helps them feel safe. I see how vulnerable patients are and how important it is to not only excel clinically, but also provide emotional support to both patients and their families. These experiences have strengthened my desire to advance my training in anesthesia, where I can have an even greater impact on patient safety and overall experience. As a future pediatric CRNA, I will get to protect children from both the physical and emotional trauma of surgery, and that gives me a deep sense of purpose. This scholarship will support my education in the UC Davis nurse anesthesia program and allow me to continue building the clinical skills needed to serve at a higher level. My long term goal is to work in critically underserved and rural communities, where access to anesthesia care is limited. I grew up in a rural village and have seen how shortages in healthcare providers can delay or prevent life saving care. I hope to expand access to safe anesthesia care for pediatric patients in these areas. I hope to eventually establish an organization of providers who travel annually to rural regions of India to deliver pediatric surgical and anesthesia care. What makes my journey unique is not just the challenges I have faced to get me to this point in my career, but how those experiences have shaped my purpose to give back and serve. With this scholarship, I will continue to grow into a provider who contributes to health equity and expanding access.

At fifteen, I suffered a severe shoulder dislocation during a basketball game. I was in excruciating pain as multiple manual attempts were made to reduce the joint without adequate analgesia. Because of language barriers and unfamiliarity with the healthcare system, my parents were unable to advocate for me. I felt helpless and afraid at that time. After several unsuccessful attempts, a certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA) stepped in. I did not know her role at the time, but I remember exactly how she made me feel. She brought a sense of safety and relief in a moment that had felt chaotic and overwhelming. What I did not realize back then, but understand now, is that this was my first encounter with a CRNA, and it became the start of my journey. My background as a low income refugee immigrant has also shaped who I am. I had to learn a new language while facing financial hardship, housing instability, and navigating unfamiliar systems. I was at risk of falling through the cracks, especially within the public school system. I did not receive formal education until right before high school and was significantly behind academically. Instead of allowing that setback to define me, I used it as motivation to work harder. I sought help from a teacher who worked with me daily to rebuild my foundation and close those gaps. Through that process, I learned that I am not afraid to start behind and work hard to earn my place. Through persistence and discipline, I graduated as valedictorian and earned a scholarship to attend UCLA. At UCLA, my degree in Sociology helped me develop a deeper understanding of the social determinants of health and how they affect patient outcomes. This perspective strengthened my awareness and empathy for underserved populations and guided my decision to pursue nursing. I went on to earn my Master of Science in Nursing and now work in the pediatric intensive care unit. As a pediatric ICU nurse, I get to be the person who steps into someone’s worst moment and helps them feel safe. I see how vulnerable patients are and how important it is to not only excel clinically, but also provide emotional support to both patients and their families. These experiences have strengthened my desire to advance my training in anesthesia, where I can have an even greater impact. As a future pediatric CRNA, I will get to protect children from both the physical and emotional trauma of surgery, and that gives me a deep sense of purpose. This scholarship will support my education in the UC Davis nurse anesthesia program and allow me to continue building the clinical skills needed to serve at a higher level. My long term goal is to work in critically underserved and rural communities, where access to anesthesia care is limited. I grew up in a rural village and have seen how shortages in healthcare providers can delay or prevent life saving care. I hope to expand access to safe anesthesia care for pediatric patients in these areas. I hope to eventually establish an organization of providers who travel annually to rural regions of India to deliver pediatric surgical and anesthesia care. I will continue to grow into a provider who contributes to health equity and expanding access. What makes my journey unique is not just the challenges I have faced to get me to this point in my career, but how those experiences have shaped my purpose to give back and serve.

At fifteen, I suffered a severe shoulder dislocation during a basketball game. I was in excruciating pain as multiple attempts were made to reduce the joint without adequate analgesia. It remains the most intense pain I have ever experienced to this date. I felt helpless and afraid. After several unsuccessful attempts, a certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA) stepped in. I did not know her role at the time, but I remember exactly how she made me feel. She brought a sense of calm, safety, and relief in a moment that had felt chaotic and overwhelming. What I did not realize back then, but understand now, is that this was my first encounter with a CRNA. My background as a low income refugee immigrant has also shaped who I am. I had to learn a new language while facing financial hardship, housing instability, and navigating unfamiliar systems. I was at risk of falling through the cracks, especially within the public school system. I did not receive formal education until right before high school and was significantly behind academically. Instead of allowing that setback to define me, I used it as motivation to work harder. I sought help from a teacher who worked with me daily to rebuild my foundation and close those gaps. Through that process, I learned that I am not afraid to start behind and work hard to earn my place. Through persistence and discipline, I graduated as valedictorian and earned a scholarship to attend UCLA. At UCLA, my degree in Sociology helped me develop a deeper understanding of the social determinants of health and how they affect patient outcomes. This perspective strengthened my awareness and empathy for underserved populations and guided my decision to pursue nursing. I went on to earn my Master of Science in Nursing and now work in the pediatric intensive care unit. As a pediatric ICU nurse, I get to be the person who steps into someone’s worst moment and helps them feel safe. In this setting, I see how vulnerable patients are and how important it is to not only excel clinically, but also provide emotional support to both patients and their families. These experiences have strengthened my desire to advance my training in anesthesia, where I can have an even greater impact on patient safety and overall experience. This scholarship will support my education in the UC Davis nurse anesthesia program and allow me to continue building the clinical skills needed to serve at a higher level. My long term goal is to work in critically underserved and rural communities, where access to pediatric anesthesia care is limited. I grew up in a rural village and have seen how shortages in healthcare providers can delay or prevent life saving care. I hope to expand access to safe anesthesia care for pediatric patients in these areas. I want to eventually establish an organization that provides pediatric surgical and anesthesia services in rural regions of India. What makes my journey unique is not just the challenges I have faced, but how those experiences have shaped my purpose to give back and serve. From being a patient in pain to becoming a nurse caring for vulnerable populations, I have developed both the empathy and clinical foundation to make a meaningful impact in the communities I come from. With this scholarship, I will continue to grow into a provider who contributes to health equity and expanding access, where every patient, regardless of background or socioeconomic status, has access to the care they need.

My background as a low income refugee immigrant has also shaped who I am. I had to learn a new language while facing financial hardship, housing instability, and navigating unfamiliar systems. I was at risk of falling through the cracks, especially within the public school system. I did not receive formal education until right before high school and was significantly behind academically. Instead of allowing that setback to define me, I used it as motivation to work harder. I sought help from a teacher who worked with me daily to rebuild my foundation and close those gaps. Through that process, I learned that I am not afraid to start behind and work hard to earn my place. Through persistence and discipline, I graduated as valedictorian and earned a scholarship to attend UCLA. At UCLA, my degree in Sociology helped me develop a deeper understanding of the social determinants of health and how they affect patient outcomes. This perspective strengthened my awareness and empathy for underserved populations and guided my decision to pursue nursing. I went on to earn my Master of Science in Nursing and now work in the pediatric intensive care unit. In this setting, I see how vulnerable patients are and how important it is to not only excel clinically, but also provide emotional support to both patients and their families. These experiences have strengthened my desire to advance my training in anesthesia, where I can have an even greater impact on patient safety and overall experience. This scholarship will support my education in the UC Davis nurse anesthesia program and allow me to continue building the clinical skills needed to serve at a higher level. My long term goal is to work in critically underserved and rural communities, where access to anesthesia care is limited. I grew up in a rural village and have seen how shortages in healthcare providers can delay or prevent life saving care. I hope to expand access to safe anesthesia care for pediatric patients in these areas. I want to eventually establish an organization that provides surgical and anesthesia services in rural regions of India. What makes my journey unique is not just the challenges I have faced, but how those experiences have shaped my purpose to give back and serve. From being a patient in pain to becoming a nurse caring for vulnerable populations, I have developed both the empathy and clinical foundation to make a meaningful impact in the communities I come from. With this scholarship, I will continue to grow into a provider who contributes to health equity and expanding access, where every patient, regardless of background or socioeconomic status, has access to the care they need.

still remember sitting in a classroom for the first time the year before high school, realizing how far behind I was. I had entered the U.S. education system without prior formal schooling, learning English while trying to understand an unfamiliar environment. As a refugee immigrant, I was at risk of falling through the cracks. In that moment, I understood I had a choice: allow my circumstances to define me or use them as motivation to move forward. I chose the latter and dedicated myself fully to my education, which was one of the only things I could control at that time. With the help of a teacher who believed in me, I stayed after school each day to rebuild my academic foundation. That experience shaped my work ethic and taught me that persistence, accountability, and asking for help are essential to overcoming adversity. My upbringing as a low income refugee and DACA student shaped both my identity and my drive to succeed. My family faced financial hardship, housing instability, and a lack of support systems as we rebuilt our lives in the United States. From a young age, I took on the role of a helper, supporting my parents and siblings as we adjusted to a new country and helping care for sick family members when access to care was limited. These experiences exposed me to the realities many underserved communities face, especially barriers to healthcare such as language differences, limited health literacy, and lack of trust in the system. Education became more than personal achievement. It became a pathway to stability and an opportunity to create meaningful change for others. Through discipline and determination, I graduated as valedictorian of my high school and earned a scholarship to attend UCLA, where I pursued a degree in Sociology. My academic journey was not without challenges. I entered college still working to strengthen foundational skills that many of my peers had developed years earlier. At the same time, I navigated financial pressures and the uncertainty that comes with being a DACA student. Despite these challenges, I remained committed to my goals. I sought mentorship, utilized academic resources, and held myself accountable to high standards. Studying sociology deepened my understanding of how social and economic factors shape health outcomes and access to care. It reinforced my desire to work in a field where I could directly address these disparities. I later pursued my Master of Science in Nursing, where I continued to build on both my academic and clinical foundation. Completing an accelerated program required discipline, time management, and resilience. During this time, I also developed an asthma management program for low income children, focusing on reducing preventable hospitalizations by addressing gaps in education and access to care. This project reflected both my academic growth and my commitment to applying knowledge in ways that directly benefit underserved populations. My professional experiences have further prepared me to make meaningful contributions as a nurse. Working in pediatric critical care at Texas Children’s Hospital and now at UC Davis PICU and PCICU, I care for children at some of the most vulnerable points in their lives. These environments require strong clinical judgment, adaptability, and the ability to remain calm under pressure. They have also strengthened my ability to connect with patients and families during highly emotional situations. I have learned that being an effective nurse requires not only clinical skill, but also emotional intelligence, cultural awareness, and the ability to build trust. These experiences have shaped the way I approach patient care and reinforced my commitment to serving vulnerable populations. Beyond my academic and professional achievements, I remain committed to serving my community through meaningful extracurricular involvement. I volunteer with World Relief Sacramento, where I teach English to immigrant women navigating challenges similar to those I once faced. This work is deeply personal to me, as it allows me to support others in building confidence, accessing resources, and advocating for themselves and their families. It has strengthened my communication skills and deepened my understanding of how trust and cultural awareness impact care. In addition, my experience as a public health nurse and clinical instructor has allowed me to advocate for patients beyond the bedside while also mentoring future nurses, further expanding my impact within the community. The challenges I faced throughout my academic journey, from entering school without formal education to navigating higher education as a first generation and DACA student, have shaped my resilience and determination. Each obstacle required me to adapt, seek support, and remain committed to my goals. These experiences have prepared me not only to succeed academically, but also to handle the demands of a rigorous nursing career with confidence and perseverance. I believe I am a strong candidate for this scholarship because my journey reflects both academic excellence and a deep commitment to service. My accomplishments are not defined solely by grades or awards, but by the persistence, growth, and purpose behind them. I have consistently sought opportunities to give back to my community, advocate for underserved populations, and use my education to create meaningful impact. This scholarship would support my continued growth as a nurse and allow me to further my goal of advancing my training as a nurse anesthetist, where I hope to serve in rural and underserved communities and expand access to safe, high quality care. My journey has been shaped by adversity, but more importantly, by how I chose to respond to it. I am not afraid to start behind, work hard, and earn my place. I am also committed to using my education, skills, and experiences to serve others and improve access to care for those who need it most.

I still remember sitting in a classroom for the first time the year before high school, realizing how far behind I was. I had entered the U.S. education system without prior formal schooling, learning English while trying to understand an unfamiliar environment. As a refugee immigrant, I was at risk of falling through the cracks. In that moment, I understood I had a choice, either to allow my circumstances to define me or use them as motivation to move forward. I chose the latter and dedicated myself fully to my academics, which was one of the only things I could control at that time. With the help of a teacher who believed in me, I stayed after school each day to rebuild my academic foundation. That experience shaped my work ethic and showed me that resilience can turn adversity into opportunity. My upbringing as a low income refugee and DACA student shaped both my identity and my sense of responsibility. My family faced financial hardship, housing instability, and a lack of support systems as we rebuilt our lives in the United States. From a young age, I took on the role of a helper, supporting my parents and siblings as we adjusted to a new country and helping care for sick family members when access to care was limited. These experiences exposed me to the barriers many communities face when trying to access healthcare. I saw how language barriers, limited health literacy, and lack of trust in the system could delay care and worsen outcomes. Education became more than personal success. It became a way to create stability and a path toward serving others. I graduated as valedictorian and earned a scholarship to attend UCLA, where I studied Sociology and developed a deeper understanding of how social and economic factors shape health outcomes. These experiences led me to pursue a career in nursing. I was drawn to nursing because it brings together science, clinical skill, and compassion in a way that directly improves patient outcomes. It allows me to apply knowledge in real time while being present with patients and families during vulnerable moments. I chose pediatric critical care because I want to advocate for vulnerable populations, and children are a unique group who often rely on others to speak for them. In the ICU, I care for children at some of the sickest points in their lives, which requires me to be socially aware, emotionally present, and able to adapt quickly. This responsibility has deepened my understanding of the importance of providing holistic care that supports both medical needs and emotional well being. Beyond the hospital, I remain committed to serving immigrant communities like my own. Through volunteering with World Relief Sacramento, I support immigrant women in building literacy skills and confidence so they can advocate for themselves and their families. This work is deeply personal to me because I understand the challenges they face, and it allows me to give back in a meaningful way. My career aspirations are rooted in both my personal experiences and my clinical work. I plan to advance my training as a nurse anesthetist and serve in rural and critically underserved communities. I grew up in a rural village where access to specialized care was limited, and I understand how delays in care can affect entire families. With advanced training, I hope to provide safe anesthesia care for pediatric patients in areas where resources are scarce. My goal is not only to care for patients, but to help bridge gaps in access and improve outcomes for communities that are often overlooked.