When I began my freshman year at the University of Connecticut, I knew I was stepping into an exciting but demanding chapter of my life. With new academic responsibilities, social adjustments, and the pressure to succeed in a competitive nursing program, I made a conscious decision to prioritize my physical, emotional, and mental health. I understood that in order to care for others one day as a nurse, I first needed to take care of myself. One of the most important choices I made was to walk to all of my classes instead of taking the campus bus. UConn’s campus is large, and while the bus system is convenient, I saw walking as an opportunity to stay active and clear my head. Living on the third floor of my dorm, I also chose to take the stairs every day, even when it wasn’t the easiest option. These consistent choices kept my body moving, gave me structure, and helped establish a routine that supported my overall wellness. Those walks became more than just physical activity—they became a chance to recharge emotionally and mentally. I often used that time to call my mom and catch up. Our conversations gave me a sense of grounding and comfort, especially when classes got stressful or I felt overwhelmed. Staying connected to my family reminded me that I wasn’t alone in this journey and helped me maintain a positive mindset during times of doubt or anxiety. Nutrition was another area where I focused my efforts. With unlimited access to dining hall food, it would have been easy to fall into unhealthy habits, but I knew how important it was to fuel my body properly—especially with the demands of a nursing curriculum. I made a point to include balanced meals with lean proteins, vegetables, and whole grains. I believed (and still do) that taking care of my physical health would directly impact my academic performance and emotional resilience. Through these intentional daily habits—walking, taking the stairs, making smart food choices, and nurturing emotional connections—I learned how powerful small decisions can be. I felt more energized, focused, and mentally prepared to handle the rigorous coursework and clinical preparation that come with being a nursing student. This experience has reinforced my belief that health is holistic. As a future nurse, I want to model the values I live by: prioritizing wellness, managing stress, and fostering meaningful relationships. I now understand that caring for others begins with caring for myself, and that a balanced, intentional lifestyle is not only sustainable—it’s essential. As I continue my journey in nursing, I carry these lessons with me. Whether I’m in class, at clinical, or eventually working in a hospital or community setting, I know that prioritizing my own health will help me show up fully for my patients, my peers, and myself.

I am currently in the early stages of pursuing my nursing career. While I haven't yet started nursing school, I have spent the last several years preparing myself academically and personally for this path. My journey toward nursing has been anything but linear, shaped by moments of exploration, reflection, and, ultimately, a deepening commitment to helping others in a direct and impactful way. For a long time, I wasn’t sure what career path to take. I initially considered fields like business and science, thinking they might be the best fit for me. I didn’t feel drawn to any one profession, and so I explored various interests. It wasn’t until my high school years, particularly during my freshman year, that I began to truly discover my passion for healthcare. One pivotal moment occurred when I walked downstairs one evening to find my parents watching Dopesick, a series about the opioid epidemic. The story of OxyContin, a drug that was initially marketed as a safe painkiller but later became central to the opioid crisis, intrigued me. I found myself asking my dad why this drug was so harmful, and he explained how pharmaceutical companies had misled the public about its addictive potential. This sparked a curiosity in me, and I began researching the issue further. I learned about the devastating toll the opioid epidemic was taking on individuals and families across the country. To further explore this topic, I chose the opioid crisis as my research project in my AP Government class. As I dove deeper into my research, I was struck by the staggering statistics: opioids claim around 69,000 lives annually in the U.S. I was also inspired by the critical role nurses—particularly Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs)—play in addressing addiction and providing care to individuals struggling with overdose and recovery. It was during this research that I had my "aha" moment: nursing was the career I wanted to pursue. Nurses are at the forefront of the healthcare system, offering direct care and emotional support to patients in critical moments. I realized that by becoming a nurse, I could directly impact the lives of those affected by addiction and help reduce the tragic number of opioid-related deaths each year. This realization set me on my current path. Although I had never initially considered nursing, I knew it was where my passion for helping others could flourish. I am currently working toward completing the prerequisites for nursing school and preparing myself both academically and emotionally for the challenges and rewards that lie ahead. My journey has been a combination of self-discovery, determination, and a desire to make a tangible difference. Throughout this process, I’ve developed a deep respect for the nursing profession and the critical role nurses play in healing and supporting patients. I am excited about the opportunity to continue my education and to begin making a difference in people’s lives. Receiving the Joseph Joshua Searor Memorial Scholarship would significantly support my efforts to pursue nursing school, helping me focus on the studies and training that will ultimately allow me to contribute to my community in a meaningful way. This scholarship would allow me to continue on my path with fewer financial barriers, empowering me to help others in the same way I hope to be helped in the future.

I have decided to pursue a career in nursing because I am deeply moved by the opioid epidemic and its devastating impact on individuals and families. This crisis is one of the most urgent public health challenges of our time, and I am determined to help alleviate its effects. With a nursing degree, I hope to contribute to the solution, providing care, compassion, and support to those suffering from addiction and overdose. My interest in nursing began during my freshman year of high school. One night, I walked downstairs to say goodnight to my parents, who were watching Dopesick, a TV series about the origins of the opioid crisis. The story of OxyContin—initially marketed as a safe painkiller but ultimately fueling the epidemic—captured my attention. I asked my dad what made OxyContin so harmful, and he explained how pharmaceutical companies misled doctors and the public about its addictive potential. This conversation piqued my curiosity, and I later asked my uncle, a pharmaceutical sales representative, about his experience with the crisis. He shared stories about the incentives reps received for selling drugs like OxyContin to doctors, even without fully understanding the risks. My interest deepened as I continued to explore the issue, particularly during my AP Government class, where I chose the opioid epidemic as my research topic. My findings were alarming: opioids kill around 69,000 people in the U.S. each year. I also learned about the vital role that Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) play in responding to overdoses and supporting patients in recovery. This realization led me to choose nursing as my career path. Nurses are at the frontlines of the crisis, providing life-saving care and helping patients recover and rebuild their lives. Although I haven’t personally witnessed someone close to me struggle with addiction, I feel a strong calling to help those who do. I am committed to using my education and future nursing skills to make a tangible difference in the lives of those affected by addiction, ultimately reducing the number of opioid-related deaths. The values that guide me—respect, humility, and empathy—are crucial to my work as a nurse. These qualities not only define who I am but also shape the care I would offer to my patients. Respect is more than just politeness; it’s about empowering others, recognizing their strengths, and understanding that negative reactions may stem from their own struggles. As a nurse, it’s essential to build trust with patients, families, and colleagues through respectful interactions. Humility has been an important lesson in my life, especially through my experiences as a student-athlete and student body president. I’ve learned that humility allows me to grow by learning from others and accepting feedback. As a nurse, being humble and open to learning will help me provide the best care to patients. Empathy is perhaps the most important quality for a nurse. I strive to put myself in others' shoes, understanding their feelings without judgment. Compassion drives my desire to help those in need, particularly those who are vulnerable or struggling. A nurse must connect with patients and their families to offer the emotional and medical support they need. I am confident that my core values, combined with my commitment to helping others, will make me a compassionate and effective nurse. I believe that the Wieland Nurse Appreciation Scholarship will provide the support I need to further my education and contribute to the nursing community. Through this scholarship, I can continue my journey toward becoming a nurse who can make a meaningful impact in the fight against the opioid epidemic. I found this scholarship on Bold.org

I am passionate about nursing because I want to make a difference in addressing one of the most tragic issues of our time: the opioid epidemic. Having grown up learning about this crisis and its devastating effects, especially through the lens of a powerful show like Dopesick, I feel a deep sense of urgency and responsibility to help. The opioid crisis is a multifaceted problem that continues to claim the lives of thousands every year. As I delved deeper into this issue, I realized how nurses, particularly Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs), are on the front lines, making a significant impact in the fight against addiction and overdose deaths. The catalyst for my decision to pursue nursing came from the realization that, while the opioid epidemic is a widespread issue that often feels overwhelming, there are practical, hands-on ways to help. Nurses play a pivotal role in managing and supporting patients struggling with addiction. They can educate, offer medical assistance, and provide the care needed to prevent further harm. By becoming a nurse, I will be empowered to work directly with patients to help them overcome addiction, save lives, and reduce the number of overdose-related fatalities. The core values of respect, humility, and empathy are essential to nursing and are values I deeply hold. I believe respect in nursing means empowering patients and treating them with dignity. It means recognizing their individuality and unique experiences, particularly in the context of addiction, where stigma often clouds understanding. Humility is crucial in nursing because it enables me to listen and learn from others—whether it be patients, colleagues, or mentors—and understand that nursing is a continual process of growth. Empathy is perhaps the most critical value. I am motivated by the belief that understanding another’s suffering and responding with compassion can have a profound effect on healing and recovery. I hope to enter the field of addiction nursing or psychiatric nursing, where I can help patients recover, not only physically but also emotionally, from the grip of addiction. I want to make a lasting impact by providing holistic care, offering both medical treatment and emotional support. The opioid epidemic affects individuals and families in ways that extend far beyond the physical body, and I hope to be part of a team that addresses those broader needs. Through nursing, I aim to be a part of a solution—helping those affected by addiction find the care, support, and hope they deserve. I believe my background, dedication, and core values will allow me to be an asset to the nursing community. I am determined to use my education and experiences to combat the opioid epidemic and provide compassionate care to those who need it most.

I am passionate about nursing because I want to make a difference in addressing one of the most tragic issues of our time: the opioid epidemic. Having grown up learning about this crisis and its devastating effects, especially through the lens of a powerful show like Dopesick, I feel a deep sense of urgency and responsibility to help. The opioid crisis is a multifaceted problem that continues to claim the lives of thousands every year. As I delved deeper into this issue, I realized how nurses, particularly Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs), are on the front lines, making a significant impact in the fight against addiction and overdose deaths. The catalyst for my decision to pursue nursing came from the realization that, while the opioid epidemic is a widespread issue that often feels overwhelming, there are practical, hands-on ways to help. Nurses play a pivotal role in managing and supporting patients struggling with addiction. They can educate, offer medical assistance, and provide the care needed to prevent further harm. By becoming a nurse, I will be empowered to work directly with patients to help them overcome addiction, save lives, and reduce the number of overdose-related fatalities. The core values of respect, humility, and empathy are essential to nursing and are values I deeply hold. I believe respect in nursing means empowering patients and treating them with dignity. It means recognizing their individuality and unique experiences, particularly in the context of addiction, where stigma often clouds understanding. Humility is crucial in nursing because it enables me to listen and learn from others—whether it be patients, colleagues, or mentors—and understand that nursing is a continual process of growth. Empathy is perhaps the most critical value. I am motivated by the belief that understanding another’s suffering and responding with compassion can have a profound effect on healing and recovery. I hope to enter the field of addiction nursing or psychiatric nursing, where I can help patients recover, not only physically but also emotionally, from the grip of addiction. I want to make a lasting impact by providing holistic care, offering both medical treatment and emotional support. The opioid epidemic affects individuals and families in ways that extend far beyond the physical body, and I hope to be part of a team that addresses those broader needs. Through nursing, I aim to be a part of a solution—helping those affected by addiction find the care, support, and hope they deserve. I believe my background, dedication, and core values will allow me to be an asset to the nursing community. I am determined to use my education and experiences to combat the opioid epidemic and provide compassionate care to those who need it most.

I am passionate about nursing because I want to make a difference in addressing one of the most tragic issues of our time: the opioid epidemic. Having grown up learning about this crisis and its devastating effects, especially through the lens of a powerful show like Dopesick, I feel a deep sense of urgency and responsibility to help. The opioid crisis is a multifaceted problem that continues to claim the lives of thousands every year. As I delved deeper into this issue, I realized how nurses, particularly Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs), are on the front lines, making a significant impact in the fight against addiction and overdose deaths. The catalyst for my decision to pursue nursing came from the realization that, while the opioid epidemic is a widespread issue that often feels overwhelming, there are practical, hands-on ways to help. Nurses play a pivotal role in managing and supporting patients struggling with addiction. They can educate, offer medical assistance, and provide the care needed to prevent further harm. By becoming a nurse, I will be empowered to work directly with patients to help them overcome addiction, save lives, and reduce the number of overdose-related fatalities. The core values of respect, humility, and empathy are essential to nursing and are values I deeply hold. I believe respect in nursing means empowering patients and treating them with dignity. It means recognizing their individuality and unique experiences, particularly in the context of addiction, where stigma often clouds understanding. Humility is crucial in nursing because it enables me to listen and learn from others—whether it be patients, colleagues, or mentors—and understand that nursing is a continual process of growth. Empathy is perhaps the most critical value. I am motivated by the belief that understanding another’s suffering and responding with compassion can have a profound effect on healing and recovery. I hope to enter the field of addiction nursing or psychiatric nursing, where I can help patients recover, not only physically but also emotionally, from the grip of addiction. I want to make a lasting impact by providing holistic care, offering both medical treatment and emotional support. The opioid epidemic affects individuals and families in ways that extend far beyond the physical body, and I hope to be part of a team that addresses those broader needs. Through nursing, I aim to be a part of a solution—helping those affected by addiction find the care, support, and hope they deserve. I believe my background, dedication, and core values will allow me to be an asset to the nursing community. I am determined to use my education and experiences to combat the opioid epidemic and provide compassionate care to those who need it most.

I am passionate about nursing because I want to make a difference in addressing one of the most tragic issues of our time: the opioid epidemic. Having grown up learning about this crisis and its devastating effects, especially through the lens of a powerful show like Dopesick, I feel a deep sense of urgency and responsibility to help. The opioid crisis is a multifaceted problem that continues to claim the lives of thousands every year. As I delved deeper into this issue, I realized how nurses, particularly Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs), are on the front lines, making a significant impact in the fight against addiction and overdose deaths. The catalyst for my decision to pursue nursing came from the realization that, while the opioid epidemic is a widespread issue that often feels overwhelming, there are practical, hands-on ways to help. Nurses play a pivotal role in managing and supporting patients struggling with addiction. They can educate, offer medical assistance, and provide the care needed to prevent further harm. By becoming a nurse, I will be empowered to work directly with patients to help them overcome addiction, save lives, and reduce the number of overdose-related fatalities. The core values of respect, humility, and empathy are essential to nursing and are values I deeply hold. I believe respect in nursing means empowering patients and treating them with dignity. It means recognizing their individuality and unique experiences, particularly in the context of addiction, where stigma often clouds understanding. Humility is crucial in nursing because it enables me to listen and learn from others—whether it be patients, colleagues, or mentors—and understand that nursing is a continual process of growth. Empathy is perhaps the most critical value. I am motivated by the belief that understanding another’s suffering and responding with compassion can have a profound effect on healing and recovery. I hope to enter the field of addiction nursing or psychiatric nursing, where I can help patients recover, not only physically but also emotionally, from the grip of addiction. I want to make a lasting impact by providing holistic care, offering both medical treatment and emotional support. The opioid epidemic affects individuals and families in ways that extend far beyond the physical body, and I hope to be part of a team that addresses those broader needs. Through nursing, I aim to be a part of a solution—helping those affected by addiction find the care, support, and hope they deserve. I believe my background, dedication, and core values will allow me to be an asset to the nursing community. I am determined to use my education and experiences to combat the opioid epidemic and provide compassionate care to those who need it most.

Of the many cries for help in the world today, I find the opioid epidemic to be the most tragic and one I hope to help alleviate with a degree in nursing from a reputable college. One night, during freshman year of high school, I went downstairs to say goodnight to my parents and saw them watching the show Dopesick. The show examined the start of the opioid crisis with the introduction of the drug OxyContin to the medical community. The drug, produced by the pharmaceutical company Purdue Pharma, was intended to safely and effectively alleviate pain. I was intrigued. After a glimpse of the show, I asked my dad what was wrong with OxyContin. He explained to me that the drug maker made false claims about its addictive nature and that pharmaceutical sales representatives got paid a lot of money to sell it to doctors, emphasizing its non-addictive quality, without a clear understanding of what OxyContin could do and the implications it could have. The topic continued to fascinate me and at our next family gathering, I asked my uncle, a pharmaceutical sales rep, about his experience with the opioid epidemic. While he did not work in pain management, he witnessed first-hand the perks reps could get with that big sale. He recalled the days of “wining and dining” doctors just to make the sale, regardless of the drug's efficacy. This year, in my AP Gov class, I had to take a stance on a government policy in the United States. The opioid crisis continued to fascinate me, so I chose that as my topic. Through my research, I learned just how much damage opioids could do to society and how opioids kill 69,000 people each year. This research led me to pursue a degree in nursing. I learned of Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) who deal with patient overdoses. These professionals are on the frontline of this epidemic and can make a difference. While I have never experienced someone close to me struggle with opioids or other addictive prescription medicines, I hope to help people with addiction on a personal level. I plan to use my college education to help patients overcome addiction while reducing the number of fatal deaths each year. I am confident a degree in nursing can provide me with skills that will help save lives in the future. Through empathy, compassion, humility, and dedication I feel like I would be a great candidate to carry on the legacy of Lynn P. Brewer in the healthcare field.

My grandma is 84 years old and this past year her health has declined a great deal. My mom is one of 5 children but is the only one who stepped up to try to be there for my grandma. One morning, my grandma’s legs gave out from underneath her and my mom arrived at her home to find her on the floor. She had been there for over two hours. It was a quick realization that she would need more help. As things progressed, my grandma’s memory started to go and my mom struggled with finding her care and came to the quick realization that much of society overlooks the needs of the elderly. She had reached out to colleagues and someone had heard great things about a local woman who extends her arms wide to embrace the elderly with grace and dignity in her own home-based adult day care. We called and set up an appointment to meet with her. What we encountered was unlike anything we could have imagined. She and her 14-year-old dog, “Bliss” greeted us with open arms and welcomed her into her beautiful old farmhouse. Her warm eyes and smile immediately put my grandma’s mind at ease, it was like she felt home. She took my grandma’s hand and led us into the living/music room. A warm rustic room filled with overstuffed chairs, pillows, games, puzzles, and a baby grand piano. As we walked, she talked warmly about the 6 elderly individuals she currently welcomes into her home. She took us through a day, from everyone gathering in the morning to make breakfast together, to sitting in the sunroom, watching the varieties of birds that come every morning to collect the food she left for them early that day. Her home was bright and warm and her spirit even more so. She engaged with my grandma in such a way that made my grandma smile, like truly smile, which in turn, made my mom and I tear up. She talked about how the guests she welcomes, become the best of friends, without judgment. She listened to my grandma’s stories with interest and attention, cherishing the wisdom gleaned from decades of lived experience. She spoke directly to my grandma assuring her that within the safety and warmth of her home: forgetting words is ok, repeating things is ok, and that everyone accepts one another. She talked of a method of validation she has been trained in and had a way of creating a calm, safe haven for my grandma, and I’m sure her other guests in her home. Her home was truly a sanctuary filled with warmth, understanding, and unwavering support. The compassion this woman showed my grandma was fueled by kindness and empathy and was truly inspiring for my mom and me. She gave us hope that there would be a place where my grandma could enjoy the last stages of her life. She gave us hope that there were people truly committed to upholding the dignity and worth of every human being, regardless of age or circumstance. In conclusion, the compassion and actions of this caretaker struck a cord, in terms of the power of empathy and kindness. In a world often characterized by indifference and apathy, her unwavering dedication to the well-being of the elderly spoke to the capacity of the human heart, and my family is forever grateful that there are people like her out there.

Of the many cries for help in the world today, I find the opioid epidemic to be the most tragic and one I hope to help alleviate with a degree in nursing from a reputable college. One night, during freshman year of high school, I went downstairs to say goodnight to my parents and saw them watching the show Dopesick. The show examined the start of the opioid crisis with the introduction of the drug OxyContin to the medical community. The drug, produced by the pharmaceutical company Purdue Pharma, was intended to safely and effectively alleviate pain. I was intrigued. After a glimpse of the show, I asked my dad what was wrong with OxyContin. He explained to me that the drug maker made false claims about its addictive nature and that pharmaceutical sales representatives got paid a lot of money to sell it to doctors, emphasizing its non-addictive quality, without a clear understanding of what OxyContin could do and the implications it could have. The topic continued to fascinate me and at our next family gathering, I asked my uncle, a pharmaceutical sales rep, about his experience with the opioid epidemic. While he did not work in pain management, he witnessed first-hand the perks reps could get with that big sale. He recalled the days of “wining and dining” doctors just to make the sale, regardless of the drug's efficacy. This year, in AP Gov, I had to take a stance on a government policy in the United States. The opioid crisis continued to fascinate me, so I chose that as my topic. Through my research, I learned just how much damage opioids could do to society and how opioids kill 69,000 people each year. This research led me to pursue a degree in nursing. I learned of Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) who deal with patient overdoses. These professionals are on the frontline of this epidemic and can make a difference. While I have never experienced someone close to me struggle with opioids or other addictive prescription medicines, I hope to help people with addiction on a personal level. I plan to use my college education to help patients overcome addiction while reducing the number of fatal deaths each year. I am confident a degree in nursing can provide me with skills that will help save lives in the future. I feel the core values I possess of empathy, compassion, respect, and humility will all support my dreams of making a difference. I am a natural-born lead and am hopeful I can make some changes.

Of the many cries for help in the world today, I find the opioid epidemic to be the most tragic and one I hope to help alleviate with a degree in nursing from a reputable college. One night, during freshman year of high school, I went downstairs to say goodnight to my parents and saw them watching the show Dopesick. The show examined the start of the opioid crisis with the introduction of the drug OxyContin to the medical community. The drug, produced by the pharmaceutical company Purdue Pharma, was intended to safely and effectively alleviate pain. I was intrigued. After a glimpse of the show, I asked my dad what was wrong with OxyContin. He explained to me that the drug maker made false claims about its addictive nature and that pharmaceutical sales representatives got paid a lot of money to sell it to doctors, emphasizing its non-addictive quality, without a clear understanding of what OxyContin could do and the implications it could have. The topic continued to fascinate me and at our next family gathering, I asked my uncle, a pharmaceutical sales rep, about his experience with the opioid epidemic. While he did not work in pain management, he witnessed first-hand the perks reps could get with that big sale. He recalled the days of “wining and dining” doctors just to make the sale, regardless of the drug's efficacy. This year, in AP Gov, I had to take a stance on a government policy in the United States. The opioid crisis continued to fascinate me, so I chose that as my topic. Through my research, I learned just how much damage opioids could do to society and how opioids kill 69,000 people each year. This research led me to pursue a degree in nursing. I learned of Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) who deal with patient overdoses. These professionals are on the frontline of this epidemic and can make a difference. While, thankfully, I have never experienced someone close to me struggle with opioids or other addictive prescription medicines, I hope to help people with addiction on a personal level. I plan to use my college education to help patients overcome addiction while reducing the number of fatal deaths each year. I am confident a degree in nursing can provide me with skills that will help save lives in the future. I think I possess the qualities of empathy, compassion, respect, and humility which will help me get there. I am a born leader and believe I can make a difference.

There are so many things about nursing that led me to pursue this career in college. Growing up, my grandma was always going in and out of the hospital. In 1988 she was diagnosed with Primary Biliary Cirrhosis and was immediately placed on an organ donor list to receive a liver. It was going to be the only thing that would save her. In 1990 she received a liver transplant and regained her livelihood. While she did not experience health issues with the transplant itself, the toll the medications have taken on her body over the years resulted in many hospital stays during my lifetime. Her saving grace during these stays was the nurses who cared for her. I would watch the compassion and respect they gave to my grandma, even in some of the most embarrassing situations. I admired their dedication and saw something in them that I wanted to aspire to be. Doctors on her transplant team did a tremendous job in saving her life, but it was the nurses who made it all bearable for her over the years. My grandma is now 84 years old, still in and out of the hospital, but very with it, and very thankful for the nurses who have cared for her along the way. It would make her so proud to see me follow that career path. COVID only reinforced my respect for the field and desire to want to be a part of it. Nurses worked tirelessly on the front lines, sacrificing time with their own families to ensure communities stayed safe while they walked through those unknown battlefields. I have always been compassionate and empathetic to others and felt this career path would be something I could really be committed to. As a school leader, one of my goals was to bring positive change to my school community and I feel like a career in nursing allows for those same opportunities. Working as a patient advocate can bring about so much positive change for families in need. Nurses are the ones who get to know the patients best and can help fight for what is best for them, when they may not be capable of doing so themselves. Having a good understanding of a patient as a person first, in a manner different than a doctor, allows a nurse to be a voice that can make a difference. My desire to help and lead with compassion has drawn me to a career in nursing.

There are so many things about nursing that led me to pursue this career in college. Growing up, my grandma was always going in and out of the hospital. In 1988 she was diagnosed with Primary Biliary Cirrhosis and was immediately placed on an organ donor list to receive a liver. It was going to be the only thing that would save her. In 1990 she received a liver transplant and regained her livelihood. While she did not experience health issues with the transplant itself, the toll the medications have taken on her body over the years resulted in many hospital stays during my lifetime. Her saving grace during these stays was the nurses who cared for her. I would watch the compassion and respect they gave to my grandma, even in some of the most embarrassing situations. I admired their dedication and saw something in them that I wanted to aspire to be. Doctors on her transplant team did a tremendous job in saving her life, but it was the nurses who made it all bearable for her over the years. My grandma is now 84 years old, still in and out of the hospital, but very with it, and very thankful for the nurses who have cared for her along the way. It would make her so proud to see me follow that career path. COVID only reinforced my respect for the field and desire to want to be a part of it. Nurses worked tirelessly on the front lines, sacrificing time with their own families to ensure communities stayed safe while they walked through those unknown battlefields. I have always been compassionate and empathetic to others and felt this career path would be something I could really be committed to. As a school leader, one of my goals was to bring positive change to my school community and I feel like a career in nursing allows for those same opportunities. Working as a patient advocate can bring about so much positive change for families in need. Nurses are the ones who get to know the patients best and can help fight for what is best for them, when they may not be capable of doing so themselves. Having a good understanding of a patient as a person first, in a manner different than a doctor, allows a nurse to be a voice that can make a difference. My desire to help and lead with compassion has drawn me to a career in nursing.