Throughout college, the most meaningful volunteering experience I have been part of is Road for Hope, an 8-day, 130-mile walk from Lewiston, Maine, back to Saint Anselm College in Manchester, New Hampshire. Road for Hope is run through Campus Ministry and supports nine local charities that serve vulnerable populations across Maine and New Hampshire. Each year, about 45 students commit to walking for eight days and raising at least $600 each. Collectively, we raise over $28,000 for organizations that often rely heavily on our donations. I first walked Road for Hope after my freshman year. At the time, I signed up because I wanted to challenge myself and give back. I did not fully understand how deeply it would shape me as a leader. Walking 15 to 20 miles a day pushes you physically, but the true impact comes from the relationships built along the way and the people we serve. We meet leaders of the charities we support, hear their stories, and see firsthand how our efforts directly impact their missions. Now, as I prepare to walk my third and final Road for Hope, I have stepped into a leadership role. Leadership in this space does not mean being in front or having the loudest voice. It means serving first. As a leader, I help organize team meetings, guide fundraising efforts, support walkers who are struggling, and create space for reflection throughout the week. When someone is exhausted and questioning whether they can continue, servant leadership means walking beside them. It means carrying extra supplies, offering encouragement, and reminding them why they started. Road for Hope has shown me that leadership through service is powerful because it is rooted in humility. It shifts the focus from personal recognition to collective impact. As a leader, I am not there to be praised for walking 130 miles. I am there to ensure that every member of the team feels supported and that the charities we serve feel valued. That mindset has changed how I approach leadership in every area of my life. My faith has played a significant role in shaping this understanding. Road for Hope is grounded in reflection and prayer, and during my first walk, I experienced a renewed sense of purpose in both my service and my faith. I began to understand that leadership is not about control or authority, but about love in action. Faith taught me that true leadership requires sacrifice, patience, and consistency. Beyond Road for Hope, I carry this servant leadership mindset into my future career as a nurse. Nursing itself is a form of servant leadership. It requires advocating for patients, educating families, and prioritizing the needs of others. As a future pediatric nurse, I hope to lead by example, serving children and families with compassion, resilience, and humility. Leadership through service matters because it creates a lasting impact. Road for Hope has taught me that the strongest leaders are the ones willing to walk beside others, not ahead of them. That

My name is Sarah Potter, and I am currently a junior nursing student at Saint Anselm College. I grew up in Leominster, Massachusetts, and I have always known that I wanted a life centered around helping others. Over the past few years, volunteering has shaped not only my college experience, but who I am becoming as a person, a leader, and a future nurse. One of the most transformative parts of my volunteer journey has been Road for Hope, a 130-mile walk from Lewiston, Maine, back to Saint Anselm College in Manchester, New Hampshire. Over eight days, about 40 students walk together to raise money for nine local charities that support vulnerable populations throughout Maine and New Hampshire. Each student raises at least $600, and collectively we raise over $24,000. While the physical challenge is intense, what has impacted me most are the moments of listening to others share personal stories, meeting the leaders of the charities we support, and witnessing how deeply our efforts matter to them. When I first walked Road for Hope, I was still figuring out my place in college and in my faith. That experience challenged me physically, emotionally, and spiritually. I learned what it means to persevere when you are exhausted, to put others before your own comfort, and to trust that small acts of service can create meaningful change. Now, as I prepare to walk my third and final Road for Hope, this time as a leader, I see service differently. Leadership has taught me that helping others is not just about showing up for one week in August. It is about creating an environment where others feel supported, encouraged, and capable of more than they thought possible. Beyond Road for Hope, I have volunteered with Kids Cafe, an after-school program that provides meals and support to children facing food insecurity. Working with these kids reminded me that consistency matters. Sometimes the most impactful thing you can do is simply be present. I have also helped organize our campus Food, Clothing, and Furniture Drive, where we personally deliver donated items to families in need throughout Manchester. Meeting families face-to-face reinforced that acts of service are so amazing. Through these experiences, I have learned that service is not about recognition. It is about connection and understanding that every person has a story. I have learned that showing up with compassion can change someone’s day, or even their life. I have also learned that service strengthens the one who gives just as much as the one who receives. It has made me more patient, more resilient, and more aware of the needs around me. As a future pediatric nurse, I plan to continue serving others both inside and outside of the hospital. Nursing itself is a life of service by advocating for patients, educating families, and offering comfort during vulnerable moments. I hope to combine my clinical education with the heart for service I have developed through volunteering. Whether it is caring for children in a hospital setting, participating in community outreach, or mentoring younger students in campus ministry and service organizations, I want helping others to remain central to my life. Volunteering has taught me that meaningful change does not always come from grand gestures. Often, it comes from steady commitment and showing up again and again. That is the mindset I will carry forward in my nursing career and in every community I am part of.

For as long as I can remember, I’ve wanted to help people. Growing up, I always knew I wanted to work in healthcare, but it wasn’t until high school that I realized nursing was where I truly belonged. Nursing stood out to me because it’s not just about procedures; it’s about being there for people during some of the hardest moments of their lives. Nurses have the opportunity to develop connections with their patients that many other healthcare professionals don’t always get the chance to build. That relationship is what makes nursing so meaningful to me. My passion for pediatric nursing began during my senior year of high school when I interned in an elementary school nurse’s office. I saw kids come in scared, overwhelmed, or not feeling well, and I realized that what they often needed most was reassurance and a safe person to listen to them. That experience showed me how important it is to treat the whole child, not just their symptoms. Sometimes, taking the time to listen made all the difference. Since then, I’ve continued working with children through after-school programs and summer camps, and every experience has confirmed that pediatrics is where my heart is. Kids are so much more resilient than we give them credit for. Even when they’re nervous, sick, or going through something hard, they still find ways to smile, laugh, and be curious about the world around them. Their strength amazes me, and being around that kind of resilience is inspiring. This past semester, I recently completed my pediatric clinical as a junior in nursing school, and it was the clinical I had been looking forward to for the past three years. Finally getting the opportunity to care for children in a hospital setting confirmed everything I had hoped for. I loved building relationships with my patients and their families, explaining things in ways they could understand, and watching their fear lessen when they felt comfortable. What draws me most to pediatric nursing is the opportunity to help children through difficult health challenges while still protecting their childhood. Being in the hospital can be scary and confusing for a child. As a future pediatric nurse, I want to help create an environment where they still feel like kids. I want my future patients to feel safe, heard, and understood. I want to be the nurse who explains things in a way that makes sense to them, who distracts them with conversation or play, and who helps them feel less afraid. Even in a hospital room, kids deserve moments of normalcy, laughter, and comfort. I also understand that when you care for a child, you’re caring for their entire family. I want to support parents by providing clear education and reassurance, helping them feel confident and informed during a time that can feel overwhelming. Nursing is something I feel genuinely called to do. Pediatric nursing, in particular, allows me to combine my love of working with children with my commitment to compassionate care. Kids are stronger than we often realize, and I can’t wait for the day I get to support them, advocate for them, and help them heal while still allowing them to simply be kids.

Service has always been an important part of my life and a major reason why I chose to pursue nursing. I am currently a junior nursing student at Saint Anselm College, and I am passionate about working in a career centered on caring for others. I have learned how powerful service can be, especially when it directly supports families in need within the community. One of the most meaningful service experiences I have had was volunteering with the Food, Clothing, and Furniture Drive (FCF) at Saint Anselm College. Through FCF, I worked with a team of students to support families in the Greater Manchester, NH area who were facing housing insecurity and financial hardship. Our group donated food, clothing, and furniture to over 75 families, helping them create safer and more comfortable living environments. Being part of an organization that made such a direct impact on the community was incredibly rewarding. One family in particular has stayed with me. We arrived at an apartment for a scheduled delivery, only to find that the original recipient had moved out without notifying us. When we knocked on the door, a newlywed couple with a newborn baby answered. They had just moved into the apartment and had almost nothing inside. They explained that all of their money had gone toward rent and food, leaving them with no furniture or supplies for their baby. After talking with our team, we decided to deliver all of the original furniture and items to them instead. We brought in living room furniture, baby supplies, and essentials, helping them begin to turn their empty apartment into a home. The father was incredibly grateful and emotional. Before we left, he prayed over us and called us his guardian angels. That moment deeply impacted me and reminded me how service can sometimes reach the people who need it most in unexpected ways. Another delivery that stood out to me involved a family who had no furniture in their home, including no crib for their baby. Our team brought a full set of living room furniture, built a crib, and delivered toys and school supplies for their other children. We carried everything inside and helped set it up so they could immediately use it. Seeing their gratitude and relief as their home came together was unforgettable. These experiences showed me how service can create real, immediate change. What felt like a normal volunteer shift to us became something life-changing for the families we helped. We were able to provide comfort, stability, and dignity during incredibly vulnerable moments. Because of how meaningful these experiences were, I am now helping run the Food, Clothing, and Furniture Drive this year so I can continue to support families and help expand its impact within the community. My experience with FCF has reinforced my desire to pursue a career in nursing. Nursing is a profession built on servitude, compassion, and advocacy, and I see many similarities between my volunteer work and the role of a nurse.

My name is Sarah Potter, and I’m a junior nursing student at Saint Anselm College in Manchester, New Hampshire. I grew up in Leominster, Massachusetts, and I’ve always been drawn to helping others. I’ve learned over time that nursing combines everything that matters most to me: compassion, service, and human connection. My interest in nursing began in high school when I joined a Health Occupations trade program. For three years, I explored various healthcare fields, but nursing stood out immediately. My senior-year internship in an elementary school nurse’s office confirmed it. I spent time helping students who came in with stomachaches or headaches that often turned out to be signs of stress or anxiety. Watching how the nurse cared for each child, not just their symptoms, showed me what true patient care looks like. It wasn’t just about medical treatment; it was about empathy, patience, and presence. Since then, my experiences have continued to shape my understanding of what kind of nurse I want to become. At Saint Anselm, I’ve worked hard to maintain a GPA above 3.5 while balancing classes, clinical rotations, and work. My first clinical placement this semester was on a medical-surgical floor, where I had the chance to support patients recovering from various illnesses and procedures. While I learned that the medical-surgical floor may not be my long-term path, the experience showed me how every area of nursing has the potential to make a meaningful impact. Outside the classroom, I’ve found that the same qualities that make a good nurse, like patience, adaptability, and empathy, have guided my work and volunteering. I work at an elementary school after-school program and summer camp, where I’ve built meaningful connections with kids and learned how to stay calm in unpredictable situations. On campus, I’m involved in several clubs like Campus Activities Board (CAB), Alpha Lambda Delta honors society, and the College Health Council. I have also volunteered with Kids Cafe, a free after-school and meal program run by the Salvation Army, helped organize our annual Food, Clothing, and Furniture Drive, and each summer, I participate in Road for Hope, a 130-mile walk that raises money for local charities. These experiences have taught me the value of showing up for others with compassion and consistency. Nursing, to me, is about building trust and creating change. I hope to use my nursing degree to give back to the communities that shaped me, whether that’s through pediatric or emergency care, community health education, or volunteer work with children and families in need. I want to help make healthcare more approachable and less intimidating, especially for young patients and those who struggle to access it. This scholarship would not only support me in reaching that goal, but also allow me to continue living out the same values of compassion, humor, and dedication that define the best nurses. I want my career to leave a lasting impact by helping others feel safe, supported, and cared for.

Growing up with a grandmother who had dementia was one of the most difficult experiences of my life, but it has also shaped me into the person I am today. Watching someone you love slowly lose pieces of who they are is heartbreaking in ways that are hard to put into words. My grandmother went from being the woman who made my favorite meals and told me stories about her childhood to someone who often didn’t recognize me at all. The mental challenge of seeing her change so drastically weighed heavily on me as a child and teenager. There were days I felt frustrated, confused, and even helpless. But as painful as it was, those years also taught me patience, compassion, and resilience. Being so close to my grandmother gave me a unique perspective when I began caring for residents with dementia in a nursing home as a certified nursing assistant. While other staff members sometimes saw the residents only in terms of their illness, I could not separate them from the loving grandmother I knew. I understood that behind every confused expression or repeated question was a whole person who had lived a full life, just like my grandmother. That perspective allowed me to treat each resident with dignity, remembering that they were more than their diagnosis. Because of my grandmother, I also learned the importance of advocacy. I watched my mother navigate the healthcare system to find support and resources, often feeling overwhelmed by the complexity of it all. Later, in my CNA role, I carried those lessons with me. I learned to speak up for my residents, to make sure their needs were met, and to ensure that other staff members treated them with respect. In many ways, my grandmother’s journey gave me the confidence to become a voice for those who could no longer advocate for themselves. The impact of dementia on my family was profound, and it is something I carry with me every day. It taught me that dementia not only affects the person diagnosed, but it also affects every loved one around them. It challenges your patience, your hope, and even your sense of identity as relationships shift and change. But it also creates a space for incredible growth. For me, that growth came in the form of empathy, determination, and a deep desire to help others facing similar struggles. I truly believe my grandmother’s journey is one of the main reasons I chose to pursue nursing. Her illness gave me firsthand insight into the emotional and physical toll dementia takes, but also the ways that compassionate care can make a difference. As I continue my studies and clinical experiences, I carry her with me in everything I do.

1. My inspiration for pursuing nursing comes from a combination of childhood dreams, high school experiences, and the mentors who shaped my journey. I have wanted to work in healthcare for as long as I can remember, but for a long time, I wasn’t sure which path was right for me. That changed when I joined the Health Occupations trade program in high school. Over three years, I learned about many different careers in the medical field, but nursing stood out because of the unique blend of science, skill, and compassion it requires. During my senior year, I interned in the nurse’s office at a local elementary school. I worked closely with Nurse Jen, who became a mentor and role model. Watching her balance the medical responsibilities of her role with the emotional needs of her students opened my eyes to what nursing truly means. I noticed how often physical symptoms, like headaches or stomachaches, were really connected to stress or anxiety. She showed me that being a nurse isn’t just about treating symptoms; it’s about listening, building trust, and helping people feel safe. That experience sparked my passion for pediatric nursing and made me realize this was exactly the kind of work I wanted to do. Since then, I’ve continued to grow through clinical experiences, campus involvement, and work with children in after-school programs and summer camps. Each step has confirmed that nursing is where I belong. My inspiration comes from the chance to combine compassion with skill to make a lasting difference in the lives of children and families. 2. To me, the phrase “human touch” means going beyond medical tasks to bring empathy, presence, and connection to patient care. It’s about recognizing that every patient is more than their illness or symptoms; they are people with emotions, fears, and stories. “Human touch” can be expressed through a smile, a calm voice, holding someone’s hand, or simply taking the time to listen. I learned the power of human touch during my first clinical placement on a dementia unit. Many residents had difficulty communicating and often didn’t remember who I was. At first, I wondered if I could really make a difference. But I quickly realized that even small gestures mattered. Sitting with a resident who felt anxious, gently holding a hand, or listening to a familiar story, even if it was for the third time, brought them comfort in that moment. Those experiences taught me that human connection is sometimes the most important part of care. I also saw the importance of human touch during my internship in the elementary school nurse’s office. Children often came in with headaches or stomachaches that were tied to stress or anxiety. Nurse Jen taught me that listening patiently, offering reassurance, and making them feel safe were just as essential as giving medicine or checking temperatures. For kids, feeling heard and cared for can make all the difference in how they heal. As a future pediatric nurse, I believe human touch is at the heart of compassionate care. It builds trust between patients and caregivers, reduces fear, and reminds people that they are not alone in their struggles. Human touch can ease pain in ways that medicine cannot, and it transforms healthcare into something deeply personal. I hope to carry that mindset with me into every interaction, ensuring that the children and families I care for feel seen, valued, and supported.

My name is Sarah Potter, and I am a junior at Saint Anselm College, majoring in nursing. For as long as I can remember, I’ve been drawn to the medical field because helping others has always felt like something I was meant to do. Over time, through both academics and hands-on experiences, I discovered that nursing is the perfect path for me. Nursing combines the science of healthcare with the human connection of being present for people in their most vulnerable moments, and that is exactly the kind of work I want to dedicate my life to. My decision to pursue nursing began in high school when I joined a Health Occupations trade program. Over three years, I explored many careers in healthcare, but what stood out most was the unique role of nurses. During my senior year, I completed an internship in the nurse’s office at a local elementary school. I worked closely with Nurse Jen, who quickly became a mentor and role model. Watching her balance the physical care of her students with emotional support was eye-opening. I saw children walk in with stomachaches and headaches that were often rooted in stress or anxiety. Nurse Jen showed me how important it is to look beyond symptoms and see the whole person. That experience sparked my passion for pediatric nursing and solidified my commitment to pursuing this profession. Since then, I’ve had opportunities to grow as both a student and a future nurse. My first clinical placement was on a dementia unit in a nursing home. While the population was different from pediatrics, it was one of the most meaningful experiences I’ve had. Many residents struggled to communicate, and some didn’t remember me from one visit to the next, but I learned how powerful small acts of presence can be. Holding a hand, offering a calming voice, or simply listening brought comfort. That experience deepened my patience, empathy, and determination, qualities I know will serve me well in pediatric nursing. Beyond the classroom, I’ve worked at an elementary school after-school program and summer camp, which gave me valuable experience connecting with children. I’ve also volunteered through programs like Kids Cafe, where I supported children facing food insecurity, and Road for Hope, an annual 130-mile walk to raise money for local charities. These experiences taught me how much impact is made when you show up consistently for others, whether through care, advocacy, or community service. As a nurse, I hope to bring this same mindset into my community. I want to be someone who not only provides excellent clinical care but also fosters trust, support, and education for children and families. One of my goals is to promote health literacy, helping people better understand their health, treatment options, and the connection between physical and mental well-being. I believe that when families feel informed and empowered, they can make healthier choices and feel more confident in their care. For me, nursing isn’t just a career. I aim to utilize my education, compassion, and determination to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives, both within and outside the hospital. By pursuing nursing, I hope to serve my community with the same empathy, strength, and dedication that inspired me to take this path in the first place.

My name is Sarah Potter, and I am a rising junior at Saint Anselm College, majoring in nursing. For as long as I can remember, I’ve wanted to work in healthcare, but it wasn’t until high school that I realized nursing was the perfect fit for me. Over the years, I’ve learned that becoming a nurse takes not only compassion, but also strength and determination, qualities I’ve developed through both my personal experiences and my training so far. One of the most defining moments for me was during my first clinical placement on a dementia unit at a nursing home. At first, the experience was overwhelming. Many residents struggled to communicate, and some didn’t recognize me from one day to the next. I wondered if I was really making a difference. But I soon realized that the value of my care wasn’t measured in what was remembered, but in the comfort I could bring in the moment. Holding a hand, listening to a story I had already heard, or sitting quietly with a resident made them feel safe and cared for, even if just for a short time. It took strength to stay present in those difficult moments and determination to show up each day with patience and compassion, but those lessons shaped the kind of nurse I want to be. Outside of the classroom, I’ve also pushed myself to grow through service. Each summer, I participate in Road for Hope, a 130-mile walk from Lewiston, Maine, to my college campus in Manchester, New Hampshire. The walk takes place over eight days and raises money for nine local charities, some of which depend on our donations as their main source of funding. It is physically exhausting and emotionally draining, but also one of the most meaningful things I’ve ever done. There are moments when every muscle aches, and it feels impossible to keep going, but remembering the people and organizations we’re walking for gives me the determination to push forward. That perseverance, fighting through challenges for the sake of others, is the same mindset I will carry into nursing. My passion for pediatric nursing began during high school, when I interned in an elementary school nurse’s office. Working alongside Nurse Jen, I saw how children often needed comfort as much as they needed treatment. Many students came in with headaches or stomachaches, but underneath, stress or anxiety was often the real cause. That experience taught me how deeply connected mental and physical health are, and how important it is to listen closely and treat the whole person, not just their symptoms. I want to bring that same attentiveness into pediatric nursing, where children especially need someone to make them feel safe, heard, and cared for. Nursing will challenge me in countless ways, but my experiences have prepared me to meet those challenges with resilience and heart. Whether it’s walking 130 miles, showing up with patience for dementia residents, or comforting a child in the nurse’s office, I’ve learned that strength and determination mean showing up fully, even when it’s hard. As a pediatric nurse, I will use those same qualities to advocate for children and families, providing care that is compassionate, holistic, and unwavering.

My name is Sarah Potter, and I am a rising junior at Saint Anselm College in Manchester, New Hampshire, majoring in nursing. I grew up in Leominster, Massachusetts, and have always felt a deep calling to serve others, especially children. Through a mix of academics, athletics, and volunteering, I’ve worked to live with purpose, compassion, and a strong work ethic. In high school, I was a dedicated student-athlete, playing four years of varsity soccer while maintaining a strong GPA. Sports taught me discipline, resilience, and the importance of teamwork, skills that continue to shape my approach to nursing. I’ve continued my love for soccer by playing on Saint Anselm’s women’s club soccer team, which has allowed me to stay active, relieve stress, and continue building strong friendships. I also joined a Health Occupations trade program in high school, which opened my eyes to the many paths in healthcare. My senior-year internship in an elementary school nurse’s office solidified my passion for nursing, especially pediatric care. Watching my mentor care for students physically and emotionally showed me the powerful impact a nurse can have, even in small, everyday moments. At Saint Anselm, I’ve continued to push myself academically and personally. I’ve maintained a GPA above 3.5 while balancing clinical placements, extracurriculars, and work. My first clinical experience on a dementia unit was both challenging and humbling, teaching me how to connect with patients even when words fail. Outside the classroom, I work at an elementary school after-school program and summer camp, where I help kids feel safe, heard, and supported. I’m also active in campus organizations like Alpha Lambda Delta honors society, the College Health Council, and FAPNO (Foster and Adoptive Parents Night Out), where my fellow college students and I, in partnership with DCF, provide free childcare for children in the foster care system once a month. Volunteering has been one of the most meaningful parts of my college experience. Through Kids Cafe, a service run by the Salvation Army, I mentor children facing food insecurity. I also help run the annual Food, Clothing, and Furniture Drive, where we deliver essentials like couches, fridges, clothes, and food to families in need. Each summer, I participate in Road for Hope, a 130-mile walk over eight days to raise funds for nine local charities, an experience that tests my physical and emotional strength while reminding me what service truly means. Receiving this scholarship would not only support me financially as I continue my nursing education, but it would also affirm the values I strive to live by: excellence, kindness, perseverance, and service. This opportunity would help me carry forward a legacy of living fully, loving deeply, laughing often, and continuing to grow, both as a nurse and as a person committed to making a difference in the lives of others.

I’ve always known that I wanted to help people, but I didn’t realize exactly what that would look like until high school. I joined a Health Occupations trade program and spent three years learning about different careers in healthcare. While I was interested in many of them, nursing stood out because of the personal connection nurses have with their patients. During my senior year, I had the opportunity to intern in the nurse’s office at a local elementary school, which profoundly shaped my perspective on the profession. From October through the end of the school year, I worked with Nurse Jen, who quickly became someone I looked up to. She didn’t just hand out ice packs; she listened to kids, calmed them down when they were upset, and made them feel safe. I saw firsthand how important it is to treat not just physical symptoms but also emotional ones. A lot of students came in with headaches or stomachaches that were caused by stress or anxiety. That experience made me realize how closely connected mental and physical health are, and it helped me understand that I want to be the kind of nurse who listens closely, notices the small details, and supports patients in all aspects of their health. Now as a nursing student at Saint Anselm College, I’ve continued to learn and grow through hands-on experiences. My first clinical placement was on a dementia unit at a nursing home. Even though it was challenging, it taught me the importance of patience and presence. Many residents had trouble communicating, but I learned how powerful small gestures, like holding a hand or offering a smile, can be. Outside of school, I’ve worked at an elementary school after-school program and a summer camp, where I’ve built strong communication skills, learned how to stay calm in unpredictable situations, and developed a natural ability to connect with children. These roles helped reinforce my desire to work in pediatrics and taught me how to be creative, flexible, and compassionate. I’ve also volunteered through Kids Cafe, where I supported children facing food insecurity, and Road for Hope, a physically and emotionally demanding 130-mile walk to raise funds for local charities. These service opportunities reminded me how important it is to be present for others, to give without expecting anything in return, and to keep showing up even when things get hard. Each of these experiences has shown me how much I care about making others feel safe, seen, and supported. They’ve helped confirm that nursing is the right path for me, and I’m excited to become the kind of nurse who brings compassion, patience, and heart to every person I care for.

My name is Sarah, and I’m a rising junior nursing student at Saint Anselm College in Manchester, New Hampshire, but I was born and raised in Leominster, Massachusetts. I’ve always known that I wanted to help people, which is what led me to pursue a career in nursing. Outside the classroom, volunteering has been a huge part of how I’ve lived out that passion in real ways. These experiences have not only shaped who I am but also deepened my understanding of what it truly means to serve others with empathy and humility. On campus, one of the most meaningful ways I’ve volunteered is through Kids Cafe, a program sponsored by the Salvation Army that provides free meals and after-school care to elementary-aged children in Manchester. Spending time with these kids, helping with homework, playing games, and just being a consistent, caring presence, has shown me how much even the smallest acts of kindness can mean. Many of the children face challenges that no child should have to, and being there for them reminded me that showing up and being present can make a huge impact. Another powerful experience was helping run the Food, Clothing, and Furniture Drive (FCF) on campus. At the end of the school year, students and members of the local community donated essential items like mini fridges, mattresses, tables, lamps, microwaves, and more to our drive. I was part of a team of about 30 students who sorted, packed, and personally delivered donations to 73 families in need across Manchester. Meeting these families face-to-face and seeing how grateful they were made everything feel real. It reminded me how important community-based work is and how much can be accomplished when people come together for a common purpose. One of the most physically and emotionally challenging volunteer experiences I took part in last summer, and will be participating in again this summer, is Road for Hope, a 130-mile walk from Lewiston, Maine, back to our campus in Manchester. I will be walking with 40 other students this August, just before the school year starts. Together, we’ve each raised over $500 (over $20,000 total) to support nine local charities along our path. Some of the charities we walk for depend on our donations as funding for the whole year. The walk takes place over eight days, and while it’s exhausting, it has been, and will be again, one of the most life-changing experiences I’ve ever had. It’s not just about the distance; it’s about walking with purpose, spreading hope, and reminding each organization that their work matters. Through these experiences, I’ve learned that service is not just about giving, it’s about listening, connecting, and growing. Volunteering has taught me how to be more compassionate, more aware of the needs around me, and more driven to do something about them. As a future nurse, I plan to carry this mindset with me into every part of my career. Whether it’s through clinical care, community outreach, or simply supporting those who feel unseen, I want to continue helping others not just as part of my job, but as part of who I am. These volunteering opportunities have shown me that change doesn’t always have to be big or dramatic to be meaningful. Sometimes it’s in a smile, a conversation, or a walk that feels impossible, but means everything to someone else. I hope to continue this work for the rest of my life, combining my passion for service with my future role as a nurse to be a light in the lives of others, both in and out of the hospital.

I want to pursue a degree in nursing because I’ve seen firsthand how powerful this profession can be. From a young age, I knew I wanted to work in the medical field, but I wasn’t always sure what path was right for me. It wasn’t until high school, when I joined a Health Occupations trade program, that I began to truly understand what nurses do; and how deeply they impact the people they care for. My passion for nursing really came to life during my senior year, when I interned in the nurse’s office at a local elementary school. I worked alongside Nurse Jen, who quickly became a mentor and role model. Watching her care for so many students each day while still making each child feel heard and supported opened my eyes to what it means to truly show up for others. She treated stomachaches and bruises, but she also helped calm nerves, ease fears, and build trust. That experience showed me that nursing is about more than just physical care; it’s about being present for people during some of their most vulnerable moments. Since then, I’ve continued on my journey through Saint Anselm College, where I’m now a rising junior in the nursing program. This past year, I had my first clinical experience on a dementia unit at a nursing home. The setting was challenging, but it taught me so much about patience, empathy, and the importance of human connection. Even when residents struggled to remember where they were or what day it was, they responded to warmth and kindness. It reminded me how much of nursing happens in the small moments, holding someone’s hand, listening to them, or simply being there when they need you most. As a future pediatric nurse, I hope to bring this same level of care and compassion to children and families in my community. I also want to help bridge the gap between physical and mental health by encouraging open conversations and reducing the stigma around emotional well-being. I’ve seen how mental health issues, even in kids, can show up as physical symptoms, and I want to be the kind of nurse who listens deeply and looks at the whole picture, not just the obvious signs. In addition to my clinical and academic experiences, I’ve worked at an elementary school after-school program and summer camp, which has given me even more experience working with children. I’ve also been involved in clubs like Alpha Lambda Delta honors society, Campus Activities Board (CAB), and the College Health Council, where I’ve learned the importance of advocacy, teamwork, and giving back. My goal is to use my education not just to care for individual patients, but to make a positive impact in my community as a whole. Whether it’s through providing care, promoting health education, or simply being a source of support and comfort, I hope to be the kind of nurse who makes others feel seen, safe, and cared for.

I’m currently a rising junior at Saint Anselm College, majoring in nursing. My journey to this point has been shaped by a mix of early passion, hands-on experience, and a few moments that helped me truly see where I belonged. I’ve wanted to work in the medical field for as long as I can remember. Helping others and being there for people during tough times has always felt natural to me. But for a while, I wasn’t sure exactly what role I wanted to take in healthcare. That started to change in high school when I joined the Health Occupations trade program. Over three years, I got to explore many different medical careers. The more I learned, the more nursing stood out, not just because of the clinical side of the work, but because of the personal, human side too. My “aha” moment came during my senior year, when I interned in the nurse’s office at a local elementary school. From October through the end of the school year, I worked closely with Nurse Jen, who quickly became someone I looked up to. I remember being overwhelmed at first; there was always something going on, and she handled it all with compassion and calm. But over time, I saw that her job wasn’t just about ice packs and Band-Aids. It was about making kids feel safe, heard, and cared for. Watching her comfort students, listen to their worries, and respond to all kinds of situations with grace made me realize, this is what I want to do. During my sophomore year of college, I had my first official clinical experience on the dementia unit of a nursing home. It was a big learning curve, but also incredibly meaningful. Communicating with residents who struggled with memory loss taught me the value of patience and presence. I learned how much a small act, like holding someone’s hand or listening to their favorite story, can make a difference in someone’s day. That experience reminded me that nursing is just as much about human connection as it is about clinical care. Outside the classroom, I’ve worked at an elementary school after-school program and summer camp, where I’ve built strong communication skills and learned how to stay calm and flexible in all kinds of situations. I’m also active on campus through Alpha Lambda Delta honors society, the College Health Council, Campus Activities Board, and many other organizations that keep me engaged in the community and help me grow as both a student and a future healthcare provider. Looking back, every step of my journey has helped me feel more confident that nursing is the right path for me. I’m excited to continue learning and growing, and I’m committed to becoming the kind of nurse who brings skill, compassion, and heart into everything I do.

My name is Sarah Potter, and I’m a rising junior at Saint Anselm College, majoring in nursing. For as long as I can remember, I’ve had a strong desire to help others and make a positive impact on people’s lives. That passion grew into an interest in healthcare, and through a variety of experiences, I’ve found that nursing is exactly where I’m meant to be. In high school, I joined a Health Occupations trade program where I spent three years learning about different careers in the medical field. That experience helped me realize just how meaningful and rewarding nursing can be. During my senior year, I completed an internship in the nurse’s office at a local elementary school. I worked closely with Nurse Jen, who became a mentor and role model. Watching the way she cared for her students, not just physically, but emotionally, showed me how impactful nurses can be in people’s lives, especially children. That experience is what sparked my interest in pediatric nursing. One thing I noticed during my time in the elementary school nurse’s office was how often mental and physical health were connected. Many kids came in with headaches or stomachaches, but after talking with them, it was clear that stress or anxiety was the real cause. That taught me how important it is to listen carefully and treat the whole person, not just their symptoms. As a future pediatric nurse, I want to be someone who makes children feel safe and understood while helping them feel better physically and emotionally. This past year, I had my first clinical experience at a nursing home, working on the dementia unit. While it was a different population than I hope to work with in the future, it gave me valuable skills and perspective. I learned how to build trust with patients who had trouble communicating, and I saw how much small acts of kindness, like holding someone’s hand or offering a calming voice, can mean so much. It strengthened my confidence and reminded me that nursing is about showing up for people in all the ways they need. Outside of the college classroom, I’ve worked at an elementary school after-school program and summer camp, which has given me a lot of experience working with children. I’ve learned how to communicate, stay patient, and adapt quickly when things don’t go as planned. I’m also involved in several campus organizations, including Alpha Lambda Delta honors society, the College Health Council, Foster and Adoptive Parents Night Out (FAPNO), and more. These activities have helped me learn how to work well with others and communicate clearly as part of a team. Each of these experiences has helped prepare me for the next step in my path toward becoming a pediatric nurse. I know nursing will continue to challenge me, but I’m excited for what’s ahead. I’m committed to giving my all to this profession and to becoming a nurse who brings compassion, understanding, and skill to every child and family I care for.

I have wanted to work in the medical field for as long as I can remember. Helping others and making a difference in their lives has always felt like something I was meant to do. For a while, I wasn’t sure what path I wanted to take, but joining the Health Occupations trade program at my high school helped me figure that out. Over three years, I learned about so many different jobs in healthcare, and the more I learned, the more I found myself drawn to nursing. During my senior year, I got the chance to do an internship, and I chose to spend it in the nurse’s office at a local elementary school. From October through the end of my senior year, I worked with Nurse Jen, who quickly became someone I looked up to. At first, I was overwhelmed by how much she had to juggle, taking care of so many kids, handling emergencies, and keeping things running smoothly. But the more time I spent with her, the more I realized how meaningful her job was. She didn’t just hand out ice packs and take temperatures; she comforted kids when they were scared, listened to their worries, and made them feel safe. One thing that stood out to me during this time was how closely mental and physical health are connected. I saw so many students come in with stomachaches, headaches, or just not feeling well, and a lot of the time, it was stress or anxiety that was bothering them. This made me realize how important it is to treat the whole person, not just their symptoms. As a future nurse, I want to be someone who listens, who notices the little things, and who helps patients feel seen and supported, not just physically, but emotionally too. This past year, during my sophomore year of nursing school, I had my first official clinical experience at a nursing home on the dementia unit. It was challenging but incredibly eye-opening. Spending time with the residents helped me develop a deeper level of patience and empathy, especially when communication was difficult. I learned how important it is to be fully present in every interaction, even if the patient doesn’t remember it later. Just offering a smile, holding someone’s hand, or listening to a story can mean more than we realize. That experience strengthened my passion for nursing and reminded me how powerful human connection can be in healthcare. My goals for a nursing career are meaningful to me. I want to give my patients the kind of care that makes them feel safe and understood. I also care a lot about mental health and want to help break the stigma around it, especially by helping people understand how it connects to their overall well-being. I believe that when people understand their health and know what’s going on in their bodies, they can take better care of themselves. Outside of my internship, I’ve also worked at an elementary school after-school program and summer camp. These experiences have helped me build strong communication skills, especially with kids, and have taught me how to be patient, calm under pressure, and creative when solving problems. All of this has made me even more confident that nursing is the right path for me. Nursing isn’t just a job to me, it’s something I’m truly passionate about. I know it won’t always be easy, but I’m ready for the challenges and excited about the chance to grow, learn, and make a real difference in people’s lives.

Entering the medical field has been a dream of mine since I was a little girl. The idea of helping others and making a positive impact on their lives has always inspired me. For a long time, I was unsure about which specific path I wanted to take within the medical field. This uncertainty led me to join the Health Occupations class, a trade program offered at my high school, during my freshman year. Over the next three years, I immersed myself in learning about the wide array of careers available in healthcare, which deepened my fascination with the field. By my senior year of high school, I had the opportunity to participate in clinical rotations at a site of my choosing. After careful consideration, I accepted an internship in my school district's nurse's office at an elementary school. Starting in October of 2022, I began working alongside Nurse Jen, who quickly became a mentor and a source of inspiration to me. Initially, I felt overwhelmed by the sheer amount of responsibility and work that nursing entails. Watching Nurse Jen perform various tasks and attend to the needs of countless students was both intimidating and eye-opening. However, as the weeks went by, my perspective began to change. Observing Nurse Jen in action and listening to her stories about her diverse nursing experiences gave me valuable insight into the realities of the profession. She shared both the rewards and challenges of nursing, emphasizing the emotional resilience and dedication required. Her candid advice, that I should fully understand what I was getting into, resonated deeply with me. Through her mentorship, I grew to appreciate the profound impact nurses have on people's lives during their most vulnerable moments. Nurse Jen's compassion, expertise, and unwavering commitment to her students solidified my desire to pursue a career in nursing. Her guidance not only helped me overcome my initial fears but also instilled in me a determination to follow her example. To me, being a nurse means more than just performing medical tasks; it signifies a lifelong dedication to helping others, offering comfort, and making a difference in times of need. I am committed to making a positive difference in the lives of others. Whether addressing physical ailments or providing emotional support, I am excited to embrace the challenges and rewards of a profession that offers endless opportunities to grow, learn, and give back. I found out about this scholarship through a filtered search on Bold.org.