My name is Sarita Valencia. I was born in Pereira, Colombia to a single mother and raised by her and my grandparents. When I was a child I was very sick until the age of seven. During that time I experienced firsthand the struggles of receiving inadequate and sometimes neglectful care at local hospitals. The mistreatment and lack of proper attention left a lasting impact on me and my family. These early experiences along with watching my mother work tirelessly often from early morning until late at night to provide for us inspired a deep determination to change the healthcare system and dedicate my life to helping others through nursing. In 2022 my mother and stepfather separated which created new financial challenges for our family. Despite this I remained focused on my dream. In 2024 I began my nursing journey at California State University Long Beach. Living far from home I faced many hardships. I worked over 40 hours each week while taking a full course load. I often slept only a few hours between demanding shifts in the dining hall and intense nursing classes. Most of my paycheck went toward textbooks clinical supplies food and sending money home to help my mother cover bills in New Jersey one of the most expensive states to live in. Living thousands of miles from family and managing school work and financial responsibilities was overwhelming. Relying on a loan to live on campus gave me the opportunity to focus on my studies and clinicals but the pressure was intense. I learned how to manage my time finances and responsibilities independently. These experiences taught me resilience sacrifice and how to persevere under pressure. Most importantly being away from my family deepened my appreciation for their support and motivated me to work harder to give back to them and my community. The high cost of living and distance from my support system made it difficult to sustain this lifestyle. After careful consideration I decided to transfer to Felician University to be closer to my mother. Being near her allows me to support her more directly and continue my education without accumulating overwhelming debt. Now I am entering my second year at Felician committed to my goal of becoming a registered travel nurse specializing in the NICU or pediatrics. My journey has not been easy but every challenge has strengthened my determination. I want to use the knowledge and skills I gain through my education to make a difference in the lives of vulnerable children and families. Ultimately I hope to lead volunteer efforts that bring medical care and resources to underserved communities around the world. Financial hardship will not stop me from becoming the nurse my mother and my community deserve.

My name is Sarita Valencia. I was born in Pereira, Colombia to a single mother and raised by her and my grandparents. When I was a child I was very sick until the age of seven. During that time I experienced firsthand the struggles of receiving inadequate and sometimes neglectful care at local hospitals. The mistreatment and lack of proper attention left a lasting impact on me and my family. These early experiences along with watching my mother work tirelessly often from early morning until late at night to provide for us inspired a deep determination to change the healthcare system and dedicate my life to helping others through nursing. In 2022 my mother and stepfather separated which created new financial challenges for our family. Despite this I remained focused on my dream. In 2024 I began my nursing journey at California State University Long Beach. Living far from home I faced many hardships. I worked over 40 hours each week while taking a full course load. I often slept only a few hours between demanding shifts in the dining hall and intense nursing classes. Most of my paycheck went toward textbooks clinical supplies food and sending money home to help my mother cover bills in New Jersey one of the most expensive states to live in. Living thousands of miles from family and managing school work and financial responsibilities was overwhelming. Relying on a loan to live on campus gave me the opportunity to focus on my studies and clinicals but the pressure was intense. I learned how to manage my time finances and responsibilities independently. These experiences taught me resilience sacrifice and how to persevere under pressure. Most importantly being away from my family deepened my appreciation for their support and motivated me to work harder to give back to them and my community. The high cost of living and distance from my support system made it difficult to sustain this lifestyle. After careful consideration I decided to transfer to Felician University to be closer to my mother. Being near her allows me to support her more directly and continue my education without accumulating overwhelming debt. Now I am entering my second year at Felician committed to my goal of becoming a registered travel nurse specializing in the NICU or pediatrics. My journey has not been easy but every challenge has strengthened my determination. I want to use the knowledge and skills I gain through my education to make a difference in the lives of vulnerable children and families. Ultimately I hope to lead volunteer efforts that bring medical care and resources to underserved communities around the world. Financial hardship will not stop me from becoming the nurse my mother and my community deserve.

My name is Sarita Valencia. I was born in Pereira, Colombia to a single mother and raised by her and my grandparents. When I was a child I was very sick until the age of seven. During that time I experienced firsthand the struggles of receiving inadequate and sometimes neglectful care at local hospitals. The mistreatment and lack of proper attention left a lasting impact on me and my family. These early experiences along with watching my mother work tirelessly often from early morning until late at night to provide for us inspired a deep determination to change the healthcare system and dedicate my life to helping others through nursing. In 2022 my mother and stepfather separated which created new financial challenges for our family. Despite this I remained focused on my dream. In 2024 I began my nursing journey at California State University Long Beach. Living far from home I faced many hardships. I worked over 40 hours each week while taking a full course load. I often slept only a few hours between demanding shifts in the dining hall and intense nursing classes. Most of my paycheck went toward textbooks clinical supplies food and sending money home to help my mother cover bills in New Jersey one of the most expensive states to live in. Living thousands of miles from family and managing school work and financial responsibilities was overwhelming. Relying on a loan to live on campus gave me the opportunity to focus on my studies and clinicals but the pressure was intense. I learned how to manage my time finances and responsibilities independently. These experiences taught me resilience sacrifice and how to persevere under pressure. Most importantly being away from my family deepened my appreciation for their support and motivated me to work harder to give back to them and my community. The high cost of living and distance from my support system made it difficult to sustain this lifestyle. After careful consideration I decided to transfer to Felician University to be closer to my mother. Being near her allows me to support her more directly and continue my education without accumulating overwhelming debt. Now I am entering my second year at Felician committed to my goal of becoming a registered travel nurse specializing in the NICU or pediatrics. My journey has not been easy but every challenge has strengthened my determination. I want to use the knowledge and skills I gain through my education to make a difference in the lives of vulnerable children and families. Ultimately I hope to lead volunteer efforts that bring medical care and resources to underserved communities around the world. Financial hardship will not stop me from becoming the nurse my mother and my community deserve.

My name is Sarita Valencia. I was born in Pereira, Colombia to a single mother and raised by her and my grandparents. When I was a child I was very sick until the age of seven. During that time I experienced firsthand the struggles of receiving inadequate and sometimes neglectful care at local hospitals. The mistreatment and lack of proper attention left a lasting impact on me and my family. These early experiences along with watching my mother work tirelessly often from early morning until late at night to provide for us inspired a deep determination to change the healthcare system and dedicate my life to helping others through nursing. In 2022 my mother and stepfather separated which created new financial challenges for our family. Despite this I remained focused on my dream. In 2024 I began my nursing journey at California State University Long Beach. Living far from home I faced many hardships. I worked over 40 hours each week while taking a full course load. I often slept only a few hours between demanding shifts in the dining hall and intense nursing classes. Most of my paycheck went toward textbooks clinical supplies food and sending money home to help my mother cover bills in New Jersey one of the most expensive states to live in. Living thousands of miles from family and managing school work and financial responsibilities was overwhelming. Relying on a loan to live on campus gave me the opportunity to focus on my studies and clinicals but the pressure was intense. I learned how to manage my time finances and responsibilities independently. These experiences taught me resilience sacrifice and how to persevere under pressure. Most importantly being away from my family deepened my appreciation for their support and motivated me to work harder to give back to them and my community. The high cost of living and distance from my support system made it difficult to sustain this lifestyle. After careful consideration I decided to transfer to Felician University to be closer to my mother. Being near her allows me to support her more directly and continue my education without accumulating overwhelming debt. Now I am entering my second year at Felician committed to my goal of becoming a registered travel nurse specializing in the NICU or pediatrics. My journey has not been easy but every challenge has strengthened my determination. I want to use the knowledge and skills I gain through my education to make a difference in the lives of vulnerable children and families. Ultimately I hope to lead volunteer efforts that bring medical care and resources to underserved communities around the world. Financial hardship will not stop me from becoming the nurse my mother and my community deserve.

My name is Sarita Valencia. I was born in Pereira, Colombia to a single mother and raised by her and my grandparents. When I was a child I was very sick until the age of seven. During that time I experienced firsthand the struggles of receiving inadequate and sometimes neglectful care at local hospitals. The mistreatment and lack of proper attention left a lasting impact on me and my family. These early experiences along with watching my mother work tirelessly often from early morning until late at night to provide for us inspired a deep determination to change the healthcare system and dedicate my life to helping others through nursing. In 2022 my mother and stepfather separated which created new financial challenges for our family. Despite this I remained focused on my dream. In 2024 I began my nursing journey at California State University Long Beach. Living far from home I faced many hardships. I worked over 40 hours each week while taking a full course load. I often slept only a few hours between demanding shifts in the dining hall and intense nursing classes. Most of my paycheck went toward textbooks clinical supplies food and sending money home to help my mother cover bills in New Jersey one of the most expensive states to live in. Living thousands of miles from family and managing school work and financial responsibilities was overwhelming. Relying on a loan to live on campus gave me the opportunity to focus on my studies and clinicals but the pressure was intense. I learned how to manage my time finances and responsibilities independently. These experiences taught me resilience sacrifice and how to persevere under pressure. Most importantly being away from my family deepened my appreciation for their support and motivated me to work harder to give back to them and my community. The high cost of living and distance from my support system made it difficult to sustain this lifestyle. After careful consideration I decided to transfer to Felician University to be closer to my mother. Being near her allows me to support her more directly and continue my education without accumulating overwhelming debt. Now I am entering my second year at Felician committed to my goal of becoming a registered travel nurse specializing in the NICU or pediatrics. My journey has not been easy but every challenge has strengthened my determination. I want to use the knowledge and skills I gain through my education to make a difference in the lives of vulnerable children and families. Ultimately I hope to lead volunteer efforts that bring medical care and resources to underserved communities around the world. Financial hardship will not stop me from becoming the nurse my mother and my community deserve.

My name is Sarita Valencia. I was born in Pereira, Colombia to a single mother and raised by her and my grandparents. When I was a child I was very sick until the age of seven. During that time I experienced firsthand the struggles of receiving inadequate and sometimes neglectful care at local hospitals. The mistreatment and lack of proper attention left a lasting impact on me and my family. These early experiences along with watching my mother work tirelessly often from early morning until late at night to provide for us inspired a deep determination to change the healthcare system and dedicate my life to helping others through nursing. In 2022 my mother and stepfather separated which created new financial challenges for our family. Despite this I remained focused on my dream. In 2024 I began my nursing journey at California State University Long Beach. Living far from home I faced many hardships. I worked over 40 hours each week while taking a full course load. I often slept only a few hours between demanding shifts in the dining hall and intense nursing classes. Most of my paycheck went toward textbooks clinical supplies food and sending money home to help my mother cover bills in New Jersey one of the most expensive states to live in. Living thousands of miles from family and managing school work and financial responsibilities was overwhelming. Relying on a loan to live on campus gave me the opportunity to focus on my studies and clinicals but the pressure was intense. I learned how to manage my time finances and responsibilities independently. These experiences taught me resilience sacrifice and how to persevere under pressure. Most importantly being away from my family deepened my appreciation for their support and motivated me to work harder to give back to them and my community. The high cost of living and distance from my support system made it difficult to sustain this lifestyle. After careful consideration I decided to transfer to Felician University to be closer to my mother. Being near her allows me to support her more directly and continue my education without accumulating overwhelming debt. Now I am entering my second year at Felician committed to my goal of becoming a registered travel nurse specializing in the NICU or pediatrics. My journey has not been easy but every challenge has strengthened my determination. I want to use the knowledge and skills I gain through my education to make a difference in the lives of vulnerable children and families. Ultimately I hope to lead volunteer efforts that bring medical care and resources to underserved communities around the world. Financial hardship will not stop me from becoming the nurse my mother and my community deserve.

My name is Sarita Valencia. I was born in Pereira, Colombia to a single mother and raised by her and my grandparents. When I was a child I was very sick until the age of seven. During that time I experienced firsthand the struggles of receiving inadequate and sometimes neglectful care at local hospitals. The mistreatment and lack of proper attention left a lasting impact on me and my family. These early experiences along with watching my mother work tirelessly often from early morning until late at night to provide for us inspired a deep determination to change the healthcare system and dedicate my life to helping others through nursing. In 2022 my mother and stepfather separated which created new financial challenges for our family. Despite this I remained focused on my dream. In 2024 I began my nursing journey at California State University Long Beach. Living far from home I faced many hardships. I worked over 40 hours each week while taking a full course load. I often slept only a few hours between demanding shifts in the dining hall and intense nursing classes. Most of my paycheck went toward textbooks clinical supplies food and sending money home to help my mother cover bills in New Jersey one of the most expensive states to live in. Living thousands of miles from family and managing school work and financial responsibilities was overwhelming. Relying on a loan to live on campus gave me the opportunity to focus on my studies and clinicals but the pressure was intense. I learned how to manage my time finances and responsibilities independently. These experiences taught me resilience sacrifice and how to persevere under pressure. Most importantly being away from my family deepened my appreciation for their support and motivated me to work harder to give back to them and my community. The high cost of living and distance from my support system made it difficult to sustain this lifestyle. After careful consideration I decided to transfer to Felician University to be closer to my mother. Being near her allows me to support her more directly and continue my education without accumulating overwhelming debt. Now I am entering my second year at Felician committed to my goal of becoming a registered travel nurse specializing in the NICU or pediatrics. My journey has not been easy but every challenge has strengthened my determination. I want to use the knowledge and skills I gain through my education to make a difference in the lives of vulnerable children and families. Ultimately I hope to lead volunteer efforts that bring medical care and resources to underserved communities around the world. Financial hardship will not stop me from becoming the nurse my mother and my community deserve.

My name is Sarita Valencia. I was born in Pereira, Colombia to a single mother and raised by her and my grandparents. When I was a child I was very sick until the age of seven. During that time I experienced firsthand the struggles of receiving inadequate and sometimes neglectful care at local hospitals. The mistreatment and lack of proper attention left a lasting impact on me and my family. These early experiences along with watching my mother work tirelessly often from early morning until late at night to provide for us inspired a deep determination to change the healthcare system and dedicate my life to helping others through nursing. In 2022 my mother and stepfather separated which created new financial challenges for our family. Despite this I remained focused on my dream. In 2024 I began my nursing journey at California State University Long Beach. Living far from home I faced many hardships. I worked over 40 hours each week while taking a full course load. I often slept only a few hours between demanding shifts in the dining hall and intense nursing classes. Most of my paycheck went toward textbooks clinical supplies food and sending money home to help my mother cover bills in New Jersey one of the most expensive states to live in. Living thousands of miles from family and managing school work and financial responsibilities was overwhelming. Relying on a loan to live on campus gave me the opportunity to focus on my studies and clinicals but the pressure was intense. I learned how to manage my time finances and responsibilities independently. These experiences taught me resilience sacrifice and how to persevere under pressure. Most importantly being away from my family deepened my appreciation for their support and motivated me to work harder to give back to them and my community. The high cost of living and distance from my support system made it difficult to sustain this lifestyle. After careful consideration I decided to transfer to Felician University to be closer to my mother. Being near her allows me to support her more directly and continue my education without accumulating overwhelming debt. Now I am entering my second year at Felician committed to my goal of becoming a registered travel nurse specializing in the NICU or pediatrics. My journey has not been easy but every challenge has strengthened my determination. I want to use the knowledge and skills I gain through my education to make a difference in the lives of vulnerable children and families. Ultimately I hope to lead volunteer efforts that bring medical care and resources to underserved communities around the world. Financial hardship will not stop me from becoming the nurse my mother and my community deserve.

My name is Sarita Valencia. I was born in Pereira, Colombia to a single mother and raised by her and my grandparents. When I was a child I was very sick until the age of seven. During that time I experienced firsthand the struggles of receiving inadequate and sometimes neglectful care at local hospitals. The mistreatment and lack of proper attention left a lasting impact on me and my family. These early experiences along with watching my mother work tirelessly often from early morning until late at night to provide for us inspired a deep determination to change the healthcare system and dedicate my life to helping others through nursing. In 2022 my mother and stepfather separated which created new financial challenges for our family. Despite this I remained focused on my dream. In 2024 I began my nursing journey at California State University Long Beach. Living far from home I faced many hardships. I worked over 40 hours each week while taking a full course load. I often slept only a few hours between demanding shifts in the dining hall and intense nursing classes. Most of my paycheck went toward textbooks clinical supplies food and sending money home to help my mother cover bills in New Jersey one of the most expensive states to live in. Living thousands of miles from family and managing school work and financial responsibilities was overwhelming. Relying on a loan to live on campus gave me the opportunity to focus on my studies and clinicals but the pressure was intense. I learned how to manage my time finances and responsibilities independently. These experiences taught me resilience sacrifice and how to persevere under pressure. Most importantly being away from my family deepened my appreciation for their support and motivated me to work harder to give back to them and my community. The high cost of living and distance from my support system made it difficult to sustain this lifestyle. After careful consideration I decided to transfer to Felician University to be closer to my mother. Being near her allows me to support her more directly and continue my education without accumulating overwhelming debt. Now I am entering my second year at Felician committed to my goal of becoming a registered travel nurse specializing in the NICU or pediatrics. My journey has not been easy but every challenge has strengthened my determination. I want to use the knowledge and skills I gain through my education to make a difference in the lives of vulnerable children and families. Ultimately I hope to lead volunteer efforts that bring medical care and resources to underserved communities around the world. Financial hardship will not stop me from becoming the nurse my mother and my community deserve.

My name is Sarita Valencia. I was born in Pereira, Colombia to a single mother and raised by her and my grandparents. When I was a child I was very sick until the age of seven. During that time I experienced firsthand the struggles of receiving inadequate and sometimes neglectful care at local hospitals. The mistreatment and lack of proper attention left a lasting impact on me and my family. These early experiences along with watching my mother work tirelessly often from early morning until late at night to provide for us inspired a deep determination to change the healthcare system and dedicate my life to helping others through nursing. In 2022 my mother and stepfather separated which created new financial challenges for our family. Despite this I remained focused on my dream. In 2024 I began my nursing journey at California State University Long Beach. Living far from home I faced many hardships. I worked over 40 hours each week while taking a full course load. I often slept only a few hours between demanding shifts in the dining hall and intense nursing classes. Most of my paycheck went toward textbooks clinical supplies food and sending money home to help my mother cover bills in New Jersey one of the most expensive states to live in. Living thousands of miles from family and managing school work and financial responsibilities was overwhelming. Relying on a loan to live on campus gave me the opportunity to focus on my studies and clinicals but the pressure was intense. I learned how to manage my time finances and responsibilities independently. These experiences taught me resilience sacrifice and how to persevere under pressure. Most importantly being away from my family deepened my appreciation for their support and motivated me to work harder to give back to them and my community. The high cost of living and distance from my support system made it difficult to sustain this lifestyle. After careful consideration I decided to transfer to Felician University to be closer to my mother. Being near her allows me to support her more directly and continue my education without accumulating overwhelming debt. Now I am entering my second year at Felician committed to my goal of becoming a registered travel nurse specializing in the NICU or pediatrics. My journey has not been easy but every challenge has strengthened my determination. I want to use the knowledge and skills I gain through my education to make a difference in the lives of vulnerable children and families. Ultimately I hope to lead volunteer efforts that bring medical care and resources to underserved communities around the world. Financial hardship will not stop me from becoming the nurse my mother and my community deserve.

My name is Sarita Valencia. I was born in Pereira, Colombia to a single mother and raised by her and my grandparents. When I was a child I was very sick until the age of seven. During that time I experienced firsthand the struggles of receiving inadequate and sometimes neglectful care at local hospitals. The mistreatment and lack of proper attention left a lasting impact on me and my family. These early experiences along with watching my mother work tirelessly often from early morning until late at night to provide for us inspired a deep determination to change the healthcare system and dedicate my life to helping others through nursing. In 2022 my mother and stepfather separated which created new financial challenges for our family. Despite this I remained focused on my dream. In 2024 I began my nursing journey at California State University Long Beach. Living far from home I faced many hardships. I worked over 40 hours each week while taking a full course load. I often slept only a few hours between demanding shifts in the dining hall and intense nursing classes. Most of my paycheck went toward textbooks clinical supplies food and sending money home to help my mother cover bills in New Jersey one of the most expensive states to live in. Living thousands of miles from family and managing school work and financial responsibilities was overwhelming. Relying on a loan to live on campus gave me the opportunity to focus on my studies and clinicals but the pressure was intense. I learned how to manage my time finances and responsibilities independently. These experiences taught me resilience sacrifice and how to persevere under pressure. Most importantly being away from my family deepened my appreciation for their support and motivated me to work harder to give back to them and my community. The high cost of living and distance from my support system made it difficult to sustain this lifestyle. After careful consideration I decided to transfer to Felician University to be closer to my mother. Being near her allows me to support her more directly and continue my education without accumulating overwhelming debt. Now I am entering my second year at Felician committed to my goal of becoming a registered travel nurse specializing in the NICU or pediatrics. My journey has not been easy but every challenge has strengthened my determination. I want to use the knowledge and skills I gain through my education to make a difference in the lives of vulnerable children and families. Ultimately I hope to lead volunteer efforts that bring medical care and resources to underserved communities around the world. Financial hardship will not stop me from becoming the nurse my mother and my community deserve.

Growing up in Lodi, New Jersey, a community with a strong Colombian, Dominican, and overall caribbean presence, and being surrounded by the challenges of nearby Paterson, I became acutely aware of the disparities in healthcare that many in my community face. Lodi, with its vibrant Hispanic culture, provided me with a sense of belonging, but it also exposed me to the struggles of individuals who lacked access to quality healthcare, a situation I know all too well from my own experiences. Living close to Paterson, a city marked by economic hardship and obviously a high reputation for its danger, I witnessed how these factors could increase the challenges of obtaining proper medical care. The people in my community often found themselves navigating not only financial barriers but also language barriers that made it even harder to access the care they needed. The lack of bilingual healthcare professionals and cultural sensitivity in local medical facilities left many Hispanic patients like myself feeling alienated and misunderstood. My own experiences as a young immigrant from Colombia navigating the healthcare system in the U.S. only reinforced this sense of isolation. I often struggled to communicate my medical concerns, and watching my parents face similar difficulties in understanding their medical conditions was heartbreaking. These challenges, compounded by the lack of adequate translation services, made me realize the profound impact of language and cultural understanding in healthcare. These early encounters with healthcare inequity ignited my passion for nursing. I want to be the bridge that connects individuals, especially those from immigrant and underserved communities, to the care they deserve. By becoming a bilingual nurse, I aim to ensure that language is never a barrier to quality care. I want to be someone who not only provides medical treatment but also offers emotional support and advocacy for those who feel lost in a complex system. My ultimate goal is to become a Registered Travel Nurse, specializing in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) or Pediatrics. I am drawn to these fields because of the critical importance of early healthcare in shaping a child’s future. Once I have gained the necessary skills and experience, I plan to volunteer in impoverished regions worldwide, offering free medical care to communities that lack proper healthcare infrastructure. I also hope to establish a foundation to support other nurses who wish to volunteer globally, while providing funding for hospitals and clinics in underfunded regions.

Like a significant portion of the United States, I am an immigrant. I grew up in Pereira Colombia, with a single mother and a dream. From ages 4 to 6 I vividly remember watching my mother get on the bus at 8 am then off the bus at 10 PM. My mother was not only my financial support, but she was also my emotional shield. Through the windows of my home, I had witnessed multiple murders, robberies, and the horrible effects of alcohol and drugs. After my mother worked 14 hours seven days a week for over six years she finally got the opportunity to move us to the United States specifically North New Jersey with the assistance of some family. My mother laid the groundwork for my future and inspiration. The initial day of school was an utterly distressing experience for me. I distinctly recall feeling like an outsider, struggling to connect with others who didn't seem to understand me, and vice versa. First grade turned into a daily struggle. Despite my tears, I understood the importance of not giving up on her aspirations for a better future. I applied my mother's 14 hours of work seven days a week determination, towards my drive to learn English and my future education. I gained the ability to interact with my classmates and staff, evolving into a supportive figure for children from different Spanish-speaking countries. Bilingualism stands as one of my greatest assets, whether in the realms of work, school, or even during everyday moments like waiting in line at McDonald's. I serve as the bridge uniting two strangers and bringing peace to those in confusion. This drive also allowed me to succeed in my academics and through my middle-high school years I took over 15 honors classes and 5 AP. I became a hands-on volunteer throughout my community by participating in Summer activities for children, library volunteer, school volunteer, and clubs. My volunteer also reached all of the 50 states through an organization called Cards For Hospitalized Kids where I made 32 and ongoing handmade cards for hospitalized children dedicating over 50 hours to my passion for providing comfort to others. My desire to pursue nursing stems from the harsh realities and absence of adequate medical and mental care I witnessed throughout Colombia. During my childhood, I faced numerous health challenges related to my weight and limited access to healthcare due to our economic struggles. A specific incident that stands out is the night I fell severely ill and had to be rushed to the hospital. However, my illness quickly became overshadowed by the shocking conditions I encountered at the clinic. There, I saw both adults and children lying on the floor in anguish, desperately seeking assistance. Some lacked proper clothing, while others suffered from distressing visible injuries.​​This pivotal moment in my life has left an undeniable mark, and Im committed to giving back. Despite being a high school senior, I am resolutely dedicated to pursuing a career as a travel nurse through a four-year university education at California State University Long Beach, with the ultimate goal of offering assistance not only within my nation but also on an international scale. CSULBS nursing program will equip me with the knowledge to one day assist those in need. Once my future is secured, I aspire to volunteer in impoverished countries, such as my homeland, Colombia. I aspire to return to that childhood spirit, but this time, I want to be a source of strength and assistance for children and adults who may be enduring unimaginable suffering, intending to bring them healing.

Like a significant portion of the United States, I am an immigrant. I grew up in Pereira Colombia, with a single mother and a dream. From ages 4 to 6 I vividly remember watching my mother get on the bus at 8 am then off the bus at 10 PM. My mother was not only my financial support, but she was also my emotional shield. Through the windows of my home, I had witnessed multiple murders, robberies, and the horrible effects of alcohol and drugs. After my mother worked 14 hours seven days a week for over six years she finally got the opportunity to move us to the United States specifically North New Jersey with the assistance of some family. My mother laid the groundwork for my future and inspiration. The initial day of school was an utterly distressing experience for me. I distinctly recall feeling like an outsider, struggling to connect with others who didn't seem to understand me, and vice versa. First grade turned into a daily struggle. Despite my tears, I understood the importance of not giving up on her aspirations for a better future. I applied my mother's 14 hours of work seven days a week determination, towards my drive to learn English and my future education. I gained the ability to interact with my classmates and staff, evolving into a supportive figure for children from different Spanish-speaking countries. Bilingualism stands as one of my greatest assets, whether in the realms of work, school, or even during everyday moments like waiting in line at McDonald's. I serve as the bridge uniting two strangers and bringing peace to those in confusion. This drive also allowed me to succeed in my academics and through my middle-high school years I took over 15 honors classes and 5 AP. I became a hands-on volunteer throughout my community by participating in Summer activities for children, library volunteer, school volunteer, and clubs. My volunteer also reached all of the 50 states through an organization called Cards For Hospitalized Kids where I made 32 and ongoing handmade cards for hospitalized children dedicating over 50 hours to my passion for providing comfort to others. My desire to pursue nursing stems from the harsh realities and absence of adequate medical and mental care I witnessed throughout Colombia. During my childhood, I faced numerous health challenges related to my weight and limited access to healthcare due to our economic struggles. A specific incident that stands out is the night I fell severely ill and had to be rushed to the hospital. However, my illness quickly became overshadowed by the shocking conditions I encountered at the clinic. There, I saw both adults and children lying on the floor in anguish, desperately seeking assistance. Some lacked proper clothing, while others suffered from distressing visible injuries.​​This pivotal moment in my life has left an undeniable mark, and Im committed to giving back. Despite being a high school senior, I am resolutely dedicated to pursuing a career as a travel nurse through a four-year university education at California State University Long Beach, with the ultimate goal of offering assistance not only within my nation but also on an international scale. CSULBS nursing program will equip me with the knowledge to one day assist those in need. Once my future is secured, I aspire to volunteer in impoverished countries, such as my homeland, Colombia. I aspire to return to that childhood spirit, but this time, I want to be a source of strength and assistance for children and adults who may be enduring unimaginable suffering, intending to bring them healing.

Like a significant portion of the United States, I am an immigrant. I grew up in Pereira Colombia, with a single mother and a dream. From ages 4 to 6 I vividly remember watching my mother get on the bus at 8 am then off the bus at 10 PM. My mother was not only my financial support, but she was also my emotional shield. Through the windows of my home, I had witnessed multiple murders, robberies, and the horrible effects of alcohol and drugs. After my mother worked 14 hours seven days a week for over six years she finally got the opportunity to move us to the United States specifically North New Jersey with the assistance of some family. My mother laid the groundwork for my future and inspiration. The initial day of school was an utterly distressing experience for me. I distinctly recall feeling like an outsider, struggling to connect with others who didn't seem to understand me, and vice versa. First grade turned into a daily struggle. Despite my tears, I understood the importance of not giving up on her aspirations for a better future. I applied my mother's 14 hours of work seven days a week determination, towards my drive to learn English and my future education. I gained the ability to interact with my classmates and staff, evolving into a supportive figure for children from different Spanish-speaking countries. Bilingualism stands as one of my greatest assets, whether in the realms of work, school, or even during everyday moments like waiting in line at McDonald's. I serve as the bridge uniting two strangers and bringing peace to those in confusion. This drive also allowed me to succeed in my academics and through my middle-high school years I took over 15 honors classes and 5 AP. I became a hands-on volunteer throughout my community by participating in Summer activities for children, library volunteer, school volunteer, and clubs. My volunteer also reached all of the 50 states through an organization called Cards For Hospitalized Kids where I made 32 and ongoing handmade cards for hospitalized children dedicating over 50 hours to my passion for providing comfort to others. My desire to pursue nursing stems from the harsh realities and absence of adequate medical and mental care I witnessed throughout Colombia. During my childhood, I faced numerous health challenges related to my weight and limited access to healthcare due to our economic struggles. A specific incident that stands out is the night I fell severely ill and had to be rushed to the hospital. However, my illness quickly became overshadowed by the shocking conditions I encountered at the clinic. There, I saw both adults and children lying on the floor in anguish, desperately seeking assistance. Some lacked proper clothing, while others suffered from distressing visible injuries.​​This pivotal moment in my life has left an undeniable mark, and Im committed to giving back. Despite being a high school senior, I am resolutely dedicated to pursuing a career as a travel nurse through a four-year university education at California State University Long Beach, with the ultimate goal of offering assistance not only within my nation but also on an international scale. CSULBS nursing program will equip me with the knowledge to one day assist those in need. Once my future is secured, I aspire to volunteer in impoverished countries, such as my homeland, Colombia. I aspire to return to that childhood spirit, but this time, I want to be a source of strength and assistance for children and adults who may be enduring unimaginable suffering, intending to bring them healing.

During my volunteer work at a local clinic and hospital, I had the opportunity to shadow nurses, assist with basic tasks like delivering meals to patients, and provide comfort and support. I also volunteered at a local blood drive, where I helped with donor registration and encouraged people to donate. These experiences gave me valuable hands on exposure to healthcare and deepened my passion for nursing. I saw firsthand how nurses play a vital role in patient care, blending scientific knowledge with empathy to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. My experiences in STEM have strongly influenced my decision to pursue nursing, as it allows me to combine my fascination with science particularly biology and human anatomy with my desire to help others. Volunteering in healthcare settings provided me with the opportunity to apply these scientific concepts in real-world situations. Throughout my journey, I’ve faced challenges, particularly in environments where leadership roles in healthcare tend to be male dominated. These challenges have taught me the value of perseverance, self confidence, and the importance of seeking mentors who can guide me through obstacles. In addition to my volunteer work, extracurricular STEM activities like organizing health awareness campaigns and participating in science fairs have helped me develop essential leadership skills. I’ve learned how to collaborate effectively, communicate ideas clearly, and take initiative in organizing projects. These experiences also taught me how to stay calm under pressure and make decisions in fast-paced, high-stakes environments. Living in Colombia has profoundly shaped my personal and academic growth, and it has been a key factor in developing my passion for healthcare. Growing up in such a rich, diverse culture instilled in me a strong sense of community and empathy qualities that are essential for anyone pursuing a career in nursing. In Colombia, healthcare access can be limited, especially in rural areas, and witnessing this disparity sparked my interest in how healthcare systems can be improved to serve all populations more equitably. My STEM experiences, both in Colombia and abroad, have been instrumental in shaping my career aspirations. In Colombia, I saw firsthand the gaps in healthcare, which fueled my desire to address those gaps by combining my love for science with a commitment to helping others. Working alongside healthcare teams in underdeveloped areas, I came to understand that nursing is not just about treating illness but also about addressing the broader social determinants of health such as access to education, clean water, and nutrition. This realization has made me even more passionate about pursuing a career in nursing, where I can apply scientific knowledge to improve health outcomes on both an individual and community level. As a young woman in STEM, I’ve faced challenges, particularly in environments where women are still underrepresented in leadership roles, especially in science and healthcare. In Colombia, there is sometimes the belief that certain careers particularly in science and healthcare leadership are more suited for men. However, these obstacles have only strengthened my determination to prove that women can thrive in these fields. I’ve learned to advocate for myself, seek out female mentors, and use my voice to inspire other young women to pursue careers in STEM and healthcare.

Free expression is a vital ideal in medicine because it ensures that all voices whether from patients, healthcare professionals, or communities are heard and valued. The ability to openly share concerns, ask questions, and propose new ideas is essential for improving patient care and advancing medical practice. Growing up in Colombia, I witnessed the consequences of a healthcare system where free expression was stifled. In overcrowded clinics, patients were often unable to voice their needs, and healthcare workers could not speak out about the dire conditions they faced. These experiences shaped my desire to become a nurse and my commitment to creating a healthcare environment where communication is open, and every voice matters. As an immigrant to the United States, I gained a deeper understanding of the importance of free expression in healthcare. When my mother and I moved to North New Jersey, I faced significant challenges in adjusting to a new culture and language. My first day of school was difficult—I felt isolated and unable to express myself in English. Over time, I learned that language and open communication were not only tools for academic success but also for connecting with others. In healthcare, the ability to express oneself freely is just as crucial it allows patients to voice their concerns and ensures healthcare professionals can advocate for the best care. In medicine, free expression allows healthcare professionals to raise concerns about patient safety, question outdated practices, and suggest improvements. Without this freedom, critical issues may go unaddressed, potentially leading to harm. For example, if a nurse notices a pattern of medication errors but fears retaliation for speaking up, patients may suffer. Similarly, if doctors cannot openly discuss treatment options or challenge clinical protocols, patient outcomes can be compromised. Encouraging free expression fosters collaboration and ensures the best care is provided. Free expression also empowers patients. When patients can openly share their symptoms, fears, and treatment preferences, they become active participants in their healthcare. This leads to better outcomes and stronger doctor-patient relationships. I understand this personally: as a child in Colombia, I struggled with health issues and often found it difficult to communicate my needs. I’ve learned that when patients feel heard and understood, they are more likely to trust their providers and follow treatment plans.To protect and promote free expression, healthcare institutions must create environments that prioritize transparency, inclusivity, and support. Leaders should encourage open communication and ensure that healthcare professionals feel safe raising concerns. Fostering diversity within the medical workforce is also essential, as it brings a wider range of perspectives and improves care for all patients. In conclusion, free expression is crucial for advancing patient care, improving safety, and fostering innovation in medicine. As I pursue a career in nursing, I am committed to advocating for open communication and creating an environment where every voice is valued just as my mother’s sacrifices taught me the importance of speaking up for a better future.

Like a significant portion of the United States, I am an immigrant. I grew up in Pereira Colombia, with a single mother and a dream. From ages 4 to 6 I vividly remember watching my mother get on the bus at 8 am then off the bus at 10 PM. My mother was not only my financial support, but she was also my emotional shield. Through the windows of my home, I had witnessed multiple murders, robberies, and the horrible effects of alcohol and drugs. After my mother worked 14 hours seven days a week for over six years she finally got the opportunity to move us to the United States specifically North New Jersey with the assistance of some family. My mother laid the groundwork for my future and inspiration. The initial day of school was an utterly distressing experience for me. I distinctly recall feeling like an outsider, struggling to connect with others who didn't seem to understand me, and vice versa. First grade turned into a daily struggle. Despite my tears, I understood the importance of not giving up on her aspirations for a better future. I applied my mother's 14 hours of work seven days a week determination, towards my drive to learn English and my future education. I gained the ability to interact with my classmates and staff, evolving into a supportive figure for children from different Spanish-speaking countries. Bilingualism stands as one of my greatest assets, whether in the realms of work, school, or even during everyday moments like waiting in line at McDonald's. I serve as the bridge uniting two strangers and bringing peace to those in confusion. This drive also allowed me to succeed in my academics and through my middle-high school years I took over 15 honors classes and 5 AP. I became a hands-on volunteer throughout my community by participating in Summer activities for children, library volunteer, school volunteer, and clubs. My volunteer also reached all of the 50 states through an organization called Cards For Hospitalized Kids where I made 32 and ongoing handmade cards for hospitalized children dedicating over 50 hours to my passion for providing comfort to others. My desire to pursue nursing stems from the harsh realities and absence of adequate medical and mental care I witnessed throughout Colombia. During my childhood, I faced numerous health challenges related to my weight and limited access to healthcare due to our economic struggles. A specific incident that stands out is the night I fell severely ill and had to be rushed to the hospital. However, my illness quickly became overshadowed by the shocking conditions I encountered at the clinic. There, I saw both adults and children lying on the floor in anguish, desperately seeking assistance. Some lacked proper clothing, while others suffered from distressing visible injuries.​​This pivotal moment in my life has left an undeniable mark, and Im committed to giving back. Despite being a high school senior, I am resolutely dedicated to pursuing a career as a travel nurse through a four-year university education at California State University Long Beach, with the ultimate goal of offering assistance not only within my nation but also on an international scale. CSULBS nursing program will equip me with the knowledge to one day assist those in need. Once my future is secured, I aspire to volunteer in impoverished countries, such as my homeland, Colombia. I aspire to return to that childhood spirit, but this time, I want to be a source of strength and assistance for children and adults who may be enduring unimaginable suffering, intending to bring them healing.

Like a significant portion of the United States, I am an immigrant. I grew up in Pereira Colombia, with a single mother and a dream. From ages 4 to 6 I vividly remember watching my mother get on the bus at 8 am then off the bus at 10 PM. My mother was not only my financial support, but she was also my emotional shield. Through the windows of my home, I had witnessed multiple murders, robberies, and the horrible effects of alcohol and drugs. After my mother worked 14 hours seven days a week for over six years she finally got the opportunity to move us to the United States specifically North New Jersey with the assistance of some family. My mother laid the groundwork for my future and inspiration. The initial day of school was an utterly distressing experience for me. I distinctly recall feeling like an outsider, struggling to connect with others who didn't seem to understand me, and vice versa. First grade turned into a daily struggle. Despite my tears, I understood the importance of not giving up on her aspirations for a better future. I applied my mother's 14 hours of work seven days a week determination, towards my drive to learn English and my future education. I gained the ability to interact with my classmates and staff, evolving into a supportive figure for children from different Spanish-speaking countries. Bilingualism stands as one of my greatest assets, whether in the realms of work, school, or even during everyday moments like waiting in line at McDonald's. I serve as the bridge uniting two strangers and bringing peace to those in confusion. This drive also allowed me to succeed in my academics and through my middle-high school years I took over 15 honors classes and 5 AP. I became a hands-on volunteer throughout my community by participating in Summer activities for children, library volunteer, school volunteer, and clubs. My volunteer also reached all of the 50 states through an organization called Cards For Hospitalized Kids where I made 32 and ongoing handmade cards for hospitalized children dedicating over 50 hours to my passion for providing comfort to others. My desire to pursue nursing stems from the harsh realities and absence of adequate medical and mental care I witnessed throughout Colombia. During my childhood, I faced numerous health challenges related to my weight and limited access to healthcare due to our economic struggles. A specific incident that stands out is the night I fell severely ill and had to be rushed to the hospital. However, my illness quickly became overshadowed by the shocking conditions I encountered at the clinic. There, I saw both adults and children lying on the floor in anguish, desperately seeking assistance. Some lacked proper clothing, while others suffered from distressing visible injuries.​​This pivotal moment in my life has left an undeniable mark, and Im committed to giving back. Despite being a high school senior, I am resolutely dedicated to pursuing a career as a travel nurse through a four-year university education at California State University Long Beach, with the ultimate goal of offering assistance not only within my nation but also on an international scale. CSULBS nursing program will equip me with the knowledge to one day assist those in need. Once my future is secured, I aspire to volunteer in impoverished countries, such as my homeland, Colombia. I aspire to return to that childhood spirit, but this time, I want to be a source of strength and assistance for children and adults who may be enduring unimaginable suffering, intending to bring them healing.

Like a significant portion of the United States, I am an immigrant. I grew up in Pereira Colombia, with a single mother and a dream. From ages 4 to 6 I vividly remember watching my mother get on the bus at 8 am then off the bus at 10 PM. My mother was not only my financial support, but she was also my emotional shield. Through the windows of my home, I had witnessed multiple murders, robberies, and the horrible effects of alcohol and drugs. After my mother worked 14 hours seven days a week for over six years she finally got the opportunity to move us to the United States specifically North New Jersey with the assistance of some family. My mother laid the groundwork for my future and inspiration. The initial day of school was an utterly distressing experience for me. I distinctly recall feeling like an outsider, struggling to connect with others who didn't seem to understand me, and vice versa. First grade turned into a daily struggle. Despite my tears, I understood the importance of not giving up on her aspirations for a better future. I applied my mother's 14 hours of work seven days a week determination, towards my drive to learn English and my future education. I gained the ability to interact with my classmates and staff, evolving into a supportive figure for children from different Spanish-speaking countries. Bilingualism stands as one of my greatest assets, whether in the realms of work, school, or even during everyday moments like waiting in line at McDonald's. I serve as the bridge uniting two strangers and bringing peace to those in confusion. This drive also allowed me to succeed in my academics and through my middle-high school years I took over 15 honors classes and 5 AP. I became a hands-on volunteer throughout my community by participating in Summer activities for children, library volunteer, school volunteer, and clubs. My volunteer also reached all of the 50 states through an organization called Cards For Hospitalized Kids where I made 32 and ongoing handmade cards for hospitalized children dedicating over 50 hours to my passion for providing comfort to others. My desire to pursue nursing stems from the harsh realities and absence of adequate medical and mental care I witnessed throughout Colombia. During my childhood, I faced numerous health challenges related to my weight and limited access to healthcare due to our economic struggles. A specific incident that stands out is the night I fell severely ill and had to be rushed to the hospital. However, my illness quickly became overshadowed by the shocking conditions I encountered at the clinic. There, I saw both adults and children lying on the floor in anguish, desperately seeking assistance. Some lacked proper clothing, while others suffered from distressing visible injuries.​​This pivotal moment in my life has left an undeniable mark, and Im committed to giving back. Despite being a high school senior, I am resolutely dedicated to pursuing a career as a travel nurse through a four-year university education at California State University Long Beach, with the ultimate goal of offering assistance not only within my nation but also on an international scale. CSULBS nursing program will equip me with the knowledge to one day assist those in need. Once my future is secured, I aspire to volunteer in impoverished countries, such as my homeland, Colombia. I aspire to return to that childhood spirit, but this time, I want to be a source of strength and assistance for children and adults who may be enduring unimaginable suffering, intending to bring them healing.

Like a significant portion of the United States, I am an immigrant. I grew up in Pereira Colombia, with a single mother and a dream. From ages 4 to 6 I vividly remember watching my mother get on the bus at 8 am then off the bus at 10 PM. My mother was not only my financial support, but she was also my emotional shield. Through the windows of my home, I had witnessed multiple murders, robberies, and the horrible effects of alcohol and drugs. After my mother worked 14 hours seven days a week for over six years she finally got the opportunity to move us to the United States specifically North New Jersey with the assistance of some family. My mother laid the groundwork for my future and inspiration. The initial day of school was an utterly distressing experience for me. I distinctly recall feeling like an outsider, struggling to connect with others who didn't seem to understand me, and vice versa. First grade turned into a daily struggle. Despite my tears, I understood the importance of not giving up on her aspirations for a better future. I applied my mother's 14 hours of work seven days a week determination, towards my drive to learn English and my future education. I gained the ability to interact with my classmates and staff, evolving into a supportive figure for children from different Spanish-speaking countries. Bilingualism stands as one of my greatest assets, whether in the realms of work, school, or even during everyday moments like waiting in line at McDonald's. I serve as the bridge uniting two strangers and bringing peace to those in confusion. This drive also allowed me to succeed in my academics and through my middle-high school years I took over 15 honors classes and 5 AP. I became a hands-on volunteer throughout my community by participating in Summer activities for children, library volunteer, school volunteer, and clubs. My volunteer also reached all of the 50 states through an organization called Cards For Hospitalized Kids where I made 32 and ongoing handmade cards for hospitalized children dedicating over 50 hours to my passion for providing comfort to others. My desire to pursue nursing stems from the harsh realities and absence of adequate medical and mental care I witnessed throughout Colombia. During my childhood, I faced numerous health challenges related to my weight and limited access to healthcare due to our economic struggles. A specific incident that stands out is the night I fell severely ill and had to be rushed to the hospital. However, my illness quickly became overshadowed by the shocking conditions I encountered at the clinic. There, I saw both adults and children lying on the floor in anguish, desperately seeking assistance. Some lacked proper clothing, while others suffered from distressing visible injuries.​​This pivotal moment in my life has left an undeniable mark, and Im committed to giving back. Despite being a high school senior, I am resolutely dedicated to pursuing a career as a travel nurse through a four-year university education at California State University Long Beach, with the ultimate goal of offering assistance not only within my nation but also on an international scale. CSULBS nursing program will equip me with the knowledge to one day assist those in need. Once my future is secured, I aspire to volunteer in impoverished countries, such as my homeland, Colombia. I aspire to return to that childhood spirit, but this time, I want to be a source of strength and assistance for children and adults who may be enduring unimaginable suffering, intending to bring them healing.

Like a significant portion of the United States, I am an immigrant. I grew up in Pereira Colombia, with a single mother and a dream. From ages 4 to 6 I vividly remember watching my mother get on the bus at 8 am then off the bus at 10 PM. My mother was not only my financial support, but she was also my emotional shield. Through the windows of my home, I had witnessed multiple murders, robberies, and the horrible effects of alcohol and drugs. After my mother worked 14 hours seven days a week for over six years she finally got the opportunity to move us to the United States specifically North New Jersey with the assistance of some family. My mother laid the groundwork for my future and inspiration. The initial day of school was an utterly distressing experience for me. I distinctly recall feeling like an outsider, struggling to connect with others who didn't seem to understand me, and vice versa. First grade turned into a daily struggle. Despite my tears, I understood the importance of not giving up on her aspirations for a better future. I applied my mother's 14 hours of work seven days a week determination, towards my drive to learn English and my future education. I gained the ability to interact with my classmates and staff, evolving into a supportive figure for children from different Spanish-speaking countries. Bilingualism stands as one of my greatest assets, whether in the realms of work, school, or even during everyday moments like waiting in line at McDonald's. I serve as the bridge uniting two strangers and bringing peace to those in confusion. This drive also allowed me to succeed in my academics and through my middle-high school years I took over 15 honors classes and 5 AP. I became a hands-on volunteer throughout my community by participating in Summer activities for children, library volunteer, school volunteer, and clubs. My volunteer also reached all of the 50 states through an organization called Cards For Hospitalized Kids where I made 32 and ongoing handmade cards for hospitalized children dedicating over 50 hours to my passion for providing comfort to others. My desire to pursue nursing stems from the harsh realities and absence of adequate medical and mental care I witnessed throughout Colombia. During my childhood, I faced numerous health challenges related to my weight and limited access to healthcare due to our economic struggles. A specific incident that stands out is the night I fell severely ill and had to be rushed to the hospital. However, my illness quickly became overshadowed by the shocking conditions I encountered at the clinic. There, I saw both adults and children lying on the floor in anguish, desperately seeking assistance. Some lacked proper clothing, while others suffered from distressing visible injuries.​​This pivotal moment in my life has left an undeniable mark, and Im committed to giving back. Despite being a high school senior, I am resolutely dedicated to pursuing a career as a travel nurse through a four-year university education at California State University Long Beach, with the ultimate goal of offering assistance not only within my nation but also on an international scale. CSULBS nursing program will equip me with the knowledge to one day assist those in need. Once my future is secured, I aspire to volunteer in impoverished countries, such as my homeland, Colombia. I aspire to return to that childhood spirit, but this time, I want to be a source of strength and assistance for children and adults who may be enduring unimaginable suffering, intending to bring them healing.

Like a significant portion of the United States, I am an immigrant. I grew up in Pereira Colombia, with a single mother and a dream. From ages 4 to 6 I vividly remember watching my mother get on the bus at 8 am then off the bus at 10 PM. My mother was not only my financial support, but she was also my emotional shield. Through the windows of my home, I had witnessed multiple murders, robberies, and the horrible effects of alcohol and drugs. After my mother worked 14 hours seven days a week for over six years she finally got the opportunity to move us to the United States specifically North New Jersey with the assistance of some family. My mother laid the groundwork for my future and inspiration. The initial day of school was an utterly distressing experience for me. I distinctly recall feeling like an outsider, struggling to connect with others who didn't seem to understand me, and vice versa. First grade turned into a daily struggle. Despite my tears, I understood the importance of not giving up on her aspirations for a better future. I applied my mother's 14 hours of work seven days a week determination, towards my drive to learn English and my future education. I gained the ability to interact with my classmates and staff, evolving into a supportive figure for children from different Spanish-speaking countries. Bilingualism stands as one of my greatest assets, whether in the realms of work, school, or even during everyday moments like waiting in line at McDonald's. I serve as the bridge uniting two strangers and bringing peace to those in confusion. This drive also allowed me to succeed in my academics and through my middle-high school years I took over 15 honors classes and 5 AP. I became a hands-on volunteer throughout my community by participating in Summer activities for children, library volunteer, school volunteer, and clubs. My volunteer also reached all of the 50 states through an organization called Cards For Hospitalized Kids where I made 32 and ongoing handmade cards for hospitalized children dedicating over 50 hours to my passion for providing comfort to others. My desire to pursue nursing stems from the harsh realities and absence of adequate medical and mental care I witnessed throughout Colombia. During my childhood, I faced numerous health challenges related to my weight and limited access to healthcare due to our economic struggles. A specific incident that stands out is the night I fell severely ill and had to be rushed to the hospital. However, my illness quickly became overshadowed by the shocking conditions I encountered at the clinic. There, I saw both adults and children lying on the floor in anguish, desperately seeking assistance. Some lacked proper clothing, while others suffered from distressing visible injuries.​​This pivotal moment in my life has left an undeniable mark, and Im committed to giving back. Despite being a high school senior, I am resolutely dedicated to pursuing a career as a travel nurse through a four-year university education at California State University Long Beach, with the ultimate goal of offering assistance not only within my nation but also on an international scale. CSULBS nursing program will equip me with the knowledge to one day assist those in need. Once my future is secured, I aspire to volunteer in impoverished countries, such as my homeland, Colombia. I aspire to return to that childhood spirit, but this time, I want to be a source of strength and assistance for children and adults who may be enduring unimaginable suffering, intending to bring them healing.

Like a significant portion of the United States, I am an immigrant. I grew up in Pereira Colombia, with a single mother and a dream. From ages 4 to 6 I vividly remember watching my mother get on the bus at 8 am then off the bus at 10 PM. My mother was not only my financial support, but she was also my emotional shield. Through the windows of my home, I had witnessed multiple murders, robberies, and the horrible effects of alcohol and drugs. After my mother worked 14 hours seven days a week for over six years she finally got the opportunity to move us to the United States specifically North New Jersey with the assistance of some family. My mother laid the groundwork for my future and inspiration. The initial day of school was an utterly distressing experience for me. I distinctly recall feeling like an outsider, struggling to connect with others who didn't seem to understand me, and vice versa. First grade turned into a daily struggle. Despite my tears, I understood the importance of not giving up on her aspirations for a better future. I applied my mother's 14 hours of work seven days a week determination, towards my drive to learn English and my future education. I gained the ability to interact with my classmates and staff, evolving into a supportive figure for children from different Spanish-speaking countries. Bilingualism stands as one of my greatest assets, whether in the realms of work, school, or even during everyday moments like waiting in line at McDonald's. I serve as the bridge uniting two strangers and bringing peace to those in confusion. This drive also allowed me to succeed in my academics and through my middle-high school years I took over 15 honors classes and 5 AP. I became a hands-on volunteer throughout my community by participating in Summer activities for children, library volunteer, school volunteer, and clubs. My volunteer also reached all of the 50 states through an organization called Cards For Hospitalized Kids where I made 32 and ongoing handmade cards for hospitalized children dedicating over 50 hours to my passion for providing comfort to others. My desire to pursue nursing stems from the harsh realities and absence of adequate medical and mental care I witnessed throughout Colombia. During my childhood, I faced numerous health challenges related to my weight and limited access to healthcare due to our economic struggles. A specific incident that stands out is the night I fell severely ill and had to be rushed to the hospital. However, my illness quickly became overshadowed by the shocking conditions I encountered at the clinic. There, I saw both adults and children lying on the floor in anguish, desperately seeking assistance. Some lacked proper clothing, while others suffered from distressing visible injuries.​​This pivotal moment in my life has left an undeniable mark, and Im committed to giving back. Despite being a high school senior, I am resolutely dedicated to pursuing a career as a travel nurse through a four-year university education at California State University Long Beach, with the ultimate goal of offering assistance not only within my nation but also on an international scale. CSULBS nursing program will equip me with the knowledge to one day assist those in need. Once my future is secured, I aspire to volunteer in impoverished countries, such as my homeland, Colombia. I aspire to return to that childhood spirit, but this time, I want to be a source of strength and assistance for children and adults who may be enduring unimaginable suffering, intending to bring them healing.

Like a significant portion of the United States, I am an immigrant. I grew up in Pereira Colombia, with a single mother and a dream. From ages 4 to 6 I vividly remember watching my mother get on the bus at 8 am then off the bus at 10 PM. My mother was not only my financial support, but she was also my emotional shield. Through the windows of my home, I had witnessed multiple murders, robberies, and the horrible effects of alcohol and drugs. After my mother worked 14 hours seven days a week for over six years she finally got the opportunity to move us to the United States specifically North New Jersey with the assistance of some family. My mother laid the groundwork for my future and inspiration. The initial day of school was an utterly distressing experience for me. I distinctly recall feeling like an outsider, struggling to connect with others who didn't seem to understand me, and vice versa. First grade turned into a daily struggle. Despite my tears, I understood the importance of not giving up on her aspirations for a better future. I applied my mother's 14 hours of work seven days a week determination, towards my drive to learn English and my future education. I gained the ability to interact with my classmates and staff, evolving into a supportive figure for children from different Spanish-speaking countries. Bilingualism stands as one of my greatest assets, whether in the realms of work, school, or even during everyday moments like waiting in line at McDonald's. I serve as the bridge uniting two strangers and bringing peace to those in confusion. This drive also allowed me to succeed in my academics and through my middle-high school years I took over 15 honors classes and 5 AP. I became a hands-on volunteer throughout my community by participating in Summer activities for children, library volunteer, school volunteer, and clubs. My volunteer also reached all of the 50 states through an organization called Cards For Hospitalized Kids where I made 32 and ongoing handmade cards for hospitalized children dedicating over 50 hours to my passion for providing comfort to others. My desire to pursue nursing stems from the harsh realities and absence of adequate medical and mental care I witnessed throughout Colombia. During my childhood, I faced numerous health challenges related to my weight and limited access to healthcare due to our economic struggles. A specific incident that stands out is the night I fell severely ill and had to be rushed to the hospital. However, my illness quickly became overshadowed by the shocking conditions I encountered at the clinic. There, I saw both adults and children lying on the floor in anguish, desperately seeking assistance. Some lacked proper clothing, while others suffered from distressing visible injuries.​​This pivotal moment in my life has left an undeniable mark, and Im committed to giving back. Despite being a high school senior, I am resolutely dedicated to pursuing a career as a travel nurse through a four-year university education at California State University Long Beach, with the ultimate goal of offering assistance not only within my nation but also on an international scale. CSULBS nursing program will equip me with the knowledge to one day assist those in need. Once my future is secured, I aspire to volunteer in impoverished countries, such as my homeland, Colombia. I aspire to return to that childhood spirit, but this time, I want to be a source of strength and assistance for children and adults who may be enduring unimaginable suffering, intending to bring them healing. I currently rely on my single immigrant mother, who lacks a college education and works a low-paying job in New Jersey a very expensive state. Although we initially had assistance from my then-stepfather when we moved to the US, their separation in 2022 has led to significant financial difficulties for us. As first-generation immigrants, we lack family support academically and emotionally, as most of our relatives are in Colombia. I also worked 25-30 hours weekly to support myself academically, personally, and emotionally, with most of my income going toward household and educational expenses but had to quit as it was challenging to find a stable life and focus on school all at once. Despite financial challenges, my dream since childhood has been to live in California, but being an out-of-state student means facing higher tuition and my financial aid estimate came out to 40k a year, meaning I would have to take out a lot of student loans that would affect me greatly in the future. In addition travel, moving costs, and the need to buy supplies for school will eventually add up. However, I am determined to pursue my dreams for a better future, and one day move my mother out to California with me. Money should never stop your dreams or ambitions and although I am not financially stable I will never lose the opportunity to reach my dreams of being a Nurse in California. California State University has one of the best nursing programs being ranked #2 in the nation which will ensure I can receive the right educational tools to succeed in my career.

Like a significant portion of the United States, I am an immigrant. I grew up in Pereira Colombia, with a single mother and a dream. From ages 4 to 6 I vividly remember watching my mother get on the bus at 8 am then off the bus at 10 PM. My mother was not only my financial support, but she was also my emotional shield. Through the windows of my home, I had witnessed multiple murders, robberies, and the horrible effects of alcohol and drugs. After my mother worked 14 hours seven days a week for over six years she finally got the opportunity to move us to the United States specifically North New Jersey with the assistance of some family. My mother laid the groundwork for my future and inspiration. The initial day of school was an utterly distressing experience for me. I distinctly recall feeling like an outsider, struggling to connect with others who didn't seem to understand me, and vice versa. First grade turned into a daily struggle. Despite my tears, I understood the importance of not giving up on her aspirations for a better future. I applied my mother's 14 hours of work seven days a week determination, towards my drive to learn English and my future education. I gained the ability to interact with my classmates and staff, evolving into a supportive figure for children from different Spanish-speaking countries. Bilingualism stands as one of my greatest assets, whether in the realms of work, school, or even during everyday moments like waiting in line at McDonald's. I serve as the bridge uniting two strangers and bringing peace to those in confusion. This drive also allowed me to succeed in my academics and through my middle-high school years I took over 15 honors classes and 5 AP. I became a hands-on volunteer throughout my community by participating in Summer activities for children, library volunteer, school volunteer, and clubs. My volunteer also reached all of the 50 states through an organization called Cards For Hospitalized Kids where I made 32 and ongoing handmade cards for hospitalized children dedicating over 50 hours to my passion for providing comfort to others. My desire to pursue nursing stems from the harsh realities and absence of adequate medical and mental care I witnessed throughout Colombia. During my childhood, I faced numerous health challenges related to my weight and limited access to healthcare due to our economic struggles. A specific incident that stands out is the night I fell severely ill and had to be rushed to the hospital. However, my illness quickly became overshadowed by the shocking conditions I encountered at the clinic. There, I saw both adults and children lying on the floor in anguish, desperately seeking assistance. Some lacked proper clothing, while others suffered from distressing visible injuries.​​This pivotal moment in my life has left an undeniable mark, and Im committed to giving back. Despite being a high school senior, I am resolutely dedicated to pursuing a career as a travel nurse through a four-year university education at California State University Long Beach, with the ultimate goal of offering assistance not only within my nation but also on an international scale. CSULBS nursing program will equip me with the knowledge to one day assist those in need. Once my future is secured, I aspire to volunteer in impoverished countries, such as my homeland, Colombia. I aspire to return to that childhood spirit, but this time, I want to be a source of strength and assistance for children and adults who may be enduring unimaginable suffering, intending to bring them healing.

Like a significant portion of the United States, I am an immigrant. I grew up in Pereira Colombia, with a single mother and a dream. From ages 4 to 6 I vividly remember watching my mother get on the bus at 8 am then off the bus at 10 PM. My mother was not only my financial support, but she was also my emotional shield. Through the windows of my home, I had witnessed multiple murders, robberies, and the horrible effects of alcohol and drugs. After my mother worked 14 hours seven days a week for over six years she finally got the opportunity to move us to the United States specifically North New Jersey with the assistance of some family. My mother laid the groundwork for my future and inspiration. The initial day of school was an utterly distressing experience for me. I distinctly recall feeling like an outsider, struggling to connect with others who didn't seem to understand me, and vice versa. First grade turned into a daily struggle. Despite my tears, I understood the importance of not giving up on her aspirations for a better future. I applied my mother's 14 hours of work seven days a week determination, towards my drive to learn English and my future education. I gained the ability to interact with my classmates and staff, evolving into a supportive figure for children from different Spanish-speaking countries. Bilingualism stands as one of my greatest assets, whether in the realms of work, school, or even during everyday moments like waiting in line at McDonald's. I serve as the bridge uniting two strangers and bringing peace to those in confusion. This drive also allowed me to succeed in my academics and through my middle-high school years I took over 15 honors classes and 5 AP. I became a hands-on volunteer throughout my community by participating in Summer activities for children, library volunteer, school volunteer, and clubs. My volunteer also reached all of the 50 states through an organization called Cards For Hospitalized Kids where I made 32 and ongoing handmade cards for hospitalized children dedicating over 50 hours to my passion for providing comfort to others. My desire to pursue nursing stems from the harsh realities and absence of adequate medical and mental care I witnessed throughout Colombia. During my childhood, I faced numerous health challenges related to my weight and limited access to healthcare due to our economic struggles. A specific incident that stands out is the night I fell severely ill and had to be rushed to the hospital. However, my illness quickly became overshadowed by the shocking conditions I encountered at the clinic. There, I saw both adults and children lying on the floor in anguish, desperately seeking assistance. Some lacked proper clothing, while others suffered from distressing visible injuries.​​This pivotal moment in my life has left an undeniable mark, and Im committed to giving back. Despite being a high school senior, I am resolutely dedicated to pursuing a career as a travel nurse through a four-year university education at California State University Long Beach, with the ultimate goal of offering assistance not only within my nation but also on an international scale. CSULBS nursing program will equip me with the knowledge to one day assist those in need. Once my future is secured, I aspire to volunteer in impoverished countries, such as my homeland, Colombia. I aspire to return to that childhood spirit, but this time, I want to be a source of strength and assistance for children and adults who may be enduring unimaginable suffering, intending to bring them healing.

Like a significant portion of the United States, I am an immigrant. I grew up in Pereira Colombia, with a single mother and a dream. From ages 4 to 6 I vividly remember watching my mother get on the bus at 8 am then off the bus at 10 PM. My mother was not only my financial support, but she was also my emotional shield. Through the windows of my home, I had witnessed multiple murders, robberies, and the horrible effects of alcohol and drugs. After my mother worked 14 hours seven days a week for over six years she finally got the opportunity to move us to the United States specifically North New Jersey with the assistance of some family. My mother laid the groundwork for my future and inspiration. The initial day of school was an utterly distressing experience for me. I distinctly recall feeling like an outsider, struggling to connect with others who didn't seem to understand me, and vice versa. First grade turned into a daily struggle. Despite my tears, I understood the importance of not giving up on her aspirations for a better future. I applied my mother's 14 hours of work seven days a week determination, towards my drive to learn English and my future education. I gained the ability to interact with my classmates and staff, evolving into a supportive figure for children from different Spanish-speaking countries. Bilingualism stands as one of my greatest assets, whether in the realms of work, school, or even during everyday moments like waiting in line at McDonald's. I serve as the bridge uniting two strangers and bringing peace to those in confusion. This drive also allowed me to succeed in my academics and through my middle-high school years I took over 15 honors classes and 5 AP. I became a hands-on volunteer throughout my community by participating in Summer activities for children, library volunteer, school volunteer, and clubs. My volunteer also reached all of the 50 states through an organization called Cards For Hospitalized Kids where I made 32 and ongoing handmade cards for hospitalized children dedicating over 50 hours to my passion for providing comfort to others. My desire to pursue nursing stems from the harsh realities and absence of adequate medical and mental care I witnessed throughout Colombia. During my childhood, I faced numerous health challenges related to my weight and limited access to healthcare due to our economic struggles. A specific incident that stands out is the night I fell severely ill and had to be rushed to the hospital. However, my illness quickly became overshadowed by the shocking conditions I encountered at the clinic. There, I saw both adults and children lying on the floor in anguish, desperately seeking assistance. Some lacked proper clothing, while others suffered from distressing visible injuries.​​This pivotal moment in my life has left an undeniable mark, and Im committed to giving back. Despite being a high school senior, I am resolutely dedicated to pursuing a career as a travel nurse through a four-year university education at California State University Long Beach, with the ultimate goal of offering assistance not only within my nation but also on an international scale. CSULBS nursing program will equip me with the knowledge to one day assist those in need. Once my future is secured, I aspire to volunteer in impoverished countries, such as my homeland, Colombia. I aspire to return to that childhood spirit, but this time, I want to be a source of strength and assistance for children and adults who may be enduring unimaginable suffering, intending to bring them healing.

Like a significant portion of the United States, I am an immigrant. I grew up in Pereira Colombia, with a single mother and a dream. From ages 4 to 6 I vividly remember watching my mother get on the bus at 8 am then off the bus at 10 PM. My mother was not only my financial support, but she was also my emotional shield. Through the windows of my home, I had witnessed multiple murders, robberies, and the horrible effects of alcohol and drugs. After my mother worked 14 hours seven days a week for over six years she finally got the opportunity to move us to the United States specifically North New Jersey with the assistance of some family. My mother laid the groundwork for my future and inspiration. The initial day of school was an utterly distressing experience for me. I distinctly recall feeling like an outsider, struggling to connect with others who didn't seem to understand me, and vice versa. First grade turned into a daily struggle. Despite my tears, I understood the importance of not giving up on her aspirations for a better future. I applied my mother's 14 hours of work seven days a week determination, towards my drive to learn English and my future education. I gained the ability to interact with my classmates and staff, evolving into a supportive figure for children from different Spanish-speaking countries. Bilingualism stands as one of my greatest assets, whether in the realms of work, school, or even during everyday moments like waiting in line at McDonald's. I serve as the bridge uniting two strangers and bringing peace to those in confusion. This drive also allowed me to succeed in my academics and through my middle-high school years I took over 15 honors classes and 5 AP. I became a hands-on volunteer throughout my community by participating in Summer activities for children, library volunteer, school volunteer, and clubs. My volunteer also reached all of the 50 states through an organization called Cards For Hospitalized Kids where I made 32 and ongoing handmade cards for hospitalized children dedicating over 50 hours to my passion for providing comfort to others. My desire to pursue nursing stems from the harsh realities and absence of adequate medical and mental care I witnessed throughout Colombia. During my childhood, I faced numerous health challenges related to my weight and limited access to healthcare due to our economic struggles. A specific incident that stands out is the night I fell severely ill and had to be rushed to the hospital. However, my illness quickly became overshadowed by the shocking conditions I encountered at the clinic. There, I saw both adults and children lying on the floor in anguish, desperately seeking assistance. Some lacked proper clothing, while others suffered from distressing visible injuries.​​This pivotal moment in my life has left an undeniable mark, and Im committed to giving back. Despite being a high school senior, I am resolutely dedicated to pursuing a career as a travel nurse through a four-year university education at California State University Long Beach, with the ultimate goal of offering assistance not only within my nation but also on an international scale. CSULBS nursing program will equip me with the knowledge to one day assist those in need. Once my future is secured, I aspire to volunteer in impoverished countries, such as my homeland, Colombia. I aspire to return to that childhood spirit, but this time, I want to be a source of strength and assistance for children and adults who may be enduring unimaginable suffering, intending to bring them healing.

Like a significant portion of the United States, I am an immigrant. I grew up in Pereira Colombia, with a single mother and a dream. From ages 4 to 6 I vividly remember watching my mother get on the bus at 8 am then off the bus at 10 PM. My mother was not only my financial support, but she was also my emotional shield. Through the windows of my home, I had witnessed multiple murders, robberies, and the horrible effects of alcohol and drugs. After my mother worked 14 hours seven days a week for over six years she finally got the opportunity to move us to the United States specifically North New Jersey with the assistance of some family. My mother laid the groundwork for my future and inspiration. The initial day of school was an utterly distressing experience for me. I distinctly recall feeling like an outsider, struggling to connect with others who didn't seem to understand me, and vice versa. First grade turned into a daily struggle. Despite my tears, I understood the importance of not giving up on her aspirations for a better future. I applied my mother's 14 hours of work seven days a week determination, towards my drive to learn English and my future education. I gained the ability to interact with my classmates and staff, evolving into a supportive figure for children from different Spanish-speaking countries. Bilingualism stands as one of my greatest assets, whether in the realms of work, school, or even during everyday moments like waiting in line at McDonald's. I serve as the bridge uniting two strangers and bringing peace to those in confusion. This drive also allowed me to succeed in my academics and through my middle-high school years I took over 15 honors classes and 5 AP. I became a hands-on volunteer throughout my community by participating in Summer activities for children, library volunteer, school volunteer, and clubs. My volunteer also reached all of the 50 states through an organization called Cards For Hospitalized Kids where I made 32 and ongoing handmade cards for hospitalized children dedicating over 50 hours to my passion for providing comfort to others. My desire to pursue nursing stems from the harsh realities and absence of adequate medical and mental care I witnessed throughout Colombia. During my childhood, I faced numerous health challenges related to my weight and limited access to healthcare due to our economic struggles. A specific incident that stands out is the night I fell severely ill and had to be rushed to the hospital. However, my illness quickly became overshadowed by the shocking conditions I encountered at the clinic. There, I saw both adults and children lying on the floor in anguish, desperately seeking assistance. Some lacked proper clothing, while others suffered from distressing visible injuries.​​This pivotal moment in my life has left an undeniable mark, and Im committed to giving back. Despite being a high school senior, I am resolutely dedicated to pursuing a career as a travel nurse through a four-year university education at California State University Long Beach, with the ultimate goal of offering assistance not only within my nation but also on an international scale. CSULBS nursing program will equip me with the knowledge to one day assist those in need. Once my future is secured, I aspire to volunteer in impoverished countries, such as my homeland, Colombia. I aspire to return to that childhood spirit, but this time, I want to be a source of strength and assistance for children and adults who may be enduring unimaginable suffering, intending to bring them healing.

Like a significant portion of the United States, I am an immigrant. I grew up in Pereira Colombia, with a single mother and a dream. From ages 4 to 6 I vividly remember watching my mother get on the bus at 8 am then off the bus at 10 PM. My mother was not only my financial support, but she was also my emotional shield. Through the windows of my home, I had witnessed multiple murders, robberies, and the horrible effects of alcohol and drugs. After my mother worked 14 hours seven days a week for over six years she finally got the opportunity to move us to the United States specifically North New Jersey with the assistance of some family. My mother laid the groundwork for my future and inspiration. The initial day of school was an utterly distressing experience for me. I distinctly recall feeling like an outsider, struggling to connect with others who didn't seem to understand me, and vice versa. First grade turned into a daily struggle. Despite my tears, I understood the importance of not giving up on her aspirations for a better future. I applied my mother's 14 hours of work seven days a week determination, towards my drive to learn English and my future education. I gained the ability to interact with my classmates and staff, evolving into a supportive figure for children from different Spanish-speaking countries. Bilingualism stands as one of my greatest assets, whether in the realms of work, school, or even during everyday moments like waiting in line at McDonald's. I serve as the bridge uniting two strangers and bringing peace to those in confusion. This drive also allowed me to succeed in my academics and through my middle-high school years I took over 15 honors classes and 5 AP. I became a hands-on volunteer throughout my community by participating in Summer activities for children, library volunteer, school volunteer, and clubs. My volunteer also reached all of the 50 states through an organization called Cards For Hospitalized Kids where I made 32 and ongoing handmade cards for hospitalized children dedicating over 50 hours to my passion for providing comfort to others. My desire to pursue nursing stems from the harsh realities and absence of adequate medical and mental care I witnessed throughout Colombia. During my childhood, I faced numerous health challenges related to my weight and limited access to healthcare due to our economic struggles. A specific incident that stands out is the night I fell severely ill and had to be rushed to the hospital. However, my illness quickly became overshadowed by the shocking conditions I encountered at the clinic. There, I saw both adults and children lying on the floor in anguish, desperately seeking assistance. Some lacked proper clothing, while others suffered from distressing visible injuries.​​This pivotal moment in my life has left an undeniable mark, and Im committed to giving back. Despite being a high school senior, I am resolutely dedicated to pursuing a career as a travel nurse through a four-year university education at California State University Long Beach, with the ultimate goal of offering assistance not only within my nation but also on an international scale. CSULBS nursing program will equip me with the knowledge to one day assist those in need. Once my future is secured, I aspire to volunteer in impoverished countries, such as my homeland, Colombia. I aspire to return to that childhood spirit, but this time, I want to be a source of strength and assistance for children and adults who may be enduring unimaginable suffering, intending to bring them healing.

Like a significant portion of the United States, I am an immigrant. I grew up in Pereira Colombia, with a single mother and a dream. From ages 4 to 6 I vividly remember watching my mother get on the bus at 8 am then off the bus at 10 PM. My mother was not only my financial support, but she was also my emotional shield. Through the windows of my home, I had witnessed multiple murders, robberies, and the horrible effects of alcohol and drugs. After my mother worked 14 hours seven days a week for over six years she finally got the opportunity to move us to the United States specifically North New Jersey with the assistance of some family. My mother laid the groundwork for my future and inspiration. The initial day of school was an utterly distressing experience for me. I distinctly recall feeling like an outsider, struggling to connect with others who didn't seem to understand me, and vice versa. First grade turned into a daily struggle. Despite my tears, I understood the importance of not giving up on her aspirations for a better future. I applied my mother's 14 hours of work seven days a week determination, towards my drive to learn English and my future education. I gained the ability to interact with my classmates and staff, evolving into a supportive figure for children from different Spanish-speaking countries. Bilingualism stands as one of my greatest assets, whether in the realms of work, school, or even during everyday moments like waiting in line at McDonald's. I serve as the bridge uniting two strangers and bringing peace to those in confusion. This drive also allowed me to succeed in my academics and through my middle-high school years I took over 15 honors classes and 5 AP. I became a hands-on volunteer throughout my community by participating in Summer activities for children, library volunteer, school volunteer, and clubs. My volunteer also reached all of the 50 states through an organization called Cards For Hospitalized Kids where I made 32 and ongoing handmade cards for hospitalized children dedicating over 50 hours to my passion for providing comfort to others. My desire to pursue nursing stems from the harsh realities and absence of adequate medical and mental care I witnessed throughout Colombia. During my childhood, I faced numerous health challenges related to my weight and limited access to healthcare due to our economic struggles. A specific incident that stands out is the night I fell severely ill and had to be rushed to the hospital. However, my illness quickly became overshadowed by the shocking conditions I encountered at the clinic. There, I saw both adults and children lying on the floor in anguish, desperately seeking assistance. Some lacked proper clothing, while others suffered from distressing visible injuries.​​This pivotal moment in my life has left an undeniable mark, and Im committed to giving back. Despite being a high school senior, I am resolutely dedicated to pursuing a career as a travel nurse through a four-year university education at California State University Long Beach, with the ultimate goal of offering assistance not only within my nation but also on an international scale. CSULBS nursing program will equip me with the knowledge to one day assist those in need. Once my future is secured, I aspire to volunteer in impoverished countries, such as my homeland, Colombia. I aspire to return to that childhood spirit, but this time, I want to be a source of strength and assistance for children and adults who may be enduring unimaginable suffering, intending to bring them healing.

Like a significant portion of the United States, I am an immigrant. I grew up in Pereira Colombia, with a single mother and a dream. From ages 4 to 6 I vividly remember watching my mother get on the bus at 8 am then off the bus at 10 PM. My mother was not only my financial support, but she was also my emotional shield. Through the windows of my home, I had witnessed multiple murders, robberies, and the horrible effects of alcohol and drugs. After my mother worked 14 hours seven days a week for over six years she finally got the opportunity to move us to the United States specifically North New Jersey with the assistance of some family. My mother laid the groundwork for my future and inspiration. The initial day of school was an utterly distressing experience for me. I distinctly recall feeling like an outsider, struggling to connect with others who didn't seem to understand me, and vice versa. First grade turned into a daily struggle. Despite my tears, I understood the importance of not giving up on her aspirations for a better future. I applied my mother's 14 hours of work seven days a week determination, towards my drive to learn English and my future education. I gained the ability to interact with my classmates and staff, evolving into a supportive figure for children from different Spanish-speaking countries. Bilingualism stands as one of my greatest assets, whether in the realms of work, school, or even during everyday moments like waiting in line at McDonald's. I serve as the bridge uniting two strangers and bringing peace to those in confusion. This drive also allowed me to succeed in my academics and through my middle-high school years I took over 15 honors classes and 5 AP. I became a hands-on volunteer throughout my community by participating in Summer activities for children, library volunteer, school volunteer, and clubs. My volunteer also reached all of the 50 states through an organization called Cards For Hospitalized Kids where I made 32 and ongoing handmade cards for hospitalized children dedicating over 50 hours to my passion for providing comfort to others. My desire to pursue nursing stems from the harsh realities and absence of adequate medical and mental care I witnessed throughout Colombia. During my childhood, I faced numerous health challenges related to my weight and limited access to healthcare due to our economic struggles. A specific incident that stands out is the night I fell severely ill and had to be rushed to the hospital. However, my illness quickly became overshadowed by the shocking conditions I encountered at the clinic. There, I saw both adults and children lying on the floor in anguish, desperately seeking assistance. Some lacked proper clothing, while others suffered from distressing visible injuries.​​This pivotal moment in my life has left an undeniable mark, and Im committed to giving back. Despite being a high school senior, I am resolutely dedicated to pursuing a career as a travel nurse through a four-year university education at California State University Long Beach, with the ultimate goal of offering assistance not only within my nation but also on an international scale. CSULBS nursing program will equip me with the knowledge to one day assist those in need. Once my future is secured, I aspire to volunteer in impoverished countries, such as my homeland, Colombia. I aspire to return to that childhood spirit, but this time, I want to be a source of strength and assistance for children and adults who may be enduring unimaginable suffering, intending to bring them healing.

Like a significant portion of the United States, I am an immigrant. I grew up in Pereira Colombia, with a single mother and a dream. From ages 4 to 6 I vividly remember watching my mother get on the bus at 8 am then off the bus at 10 PM. My mother was not only my financial support, but she was also my emotional shield. Through the windows of my home, I had witnessed multiple murders, robberies, and the horrible effects of alcohol and drugs. After my mother worked 14 hours seven days a week for over six years she finally got the opportunity to move us to the United States specifically North New Jersey with the assistance of some family. My mother laid the groundwork for my future and inspiration. The initial day of school was an utterly distressing experience for me. I distinctly recall feeling like an outsider, struggling to connect with others who didn't seem to understand me, and vice versa. First grade turned into a daily struggle. Despite my tears, I understood the importance of not giving up on her aspirations for a better future. I applied my mother's 14 hours of work seven days a week determination, towards my drive to learn English and my future education. I gained the ability to interact with my classmates and staff, evolving into a supportive figure for children from different Spanish-speaking countries. Bilingualism stands as one of my greatest assets, whether in the realms of work, school, or even during everyday moments like waiting in line at McDonald's. I serve as the bridge uniting two strangers and bringing peace to those in confusion. This drive also allowed me to succeed in my academics and through my middle-high school years I took over 15 honors classes and 5 AP. I became a hands-on volunteer throughout my community by participating in Summer activities for children, library volunteer, school volunteer, and clubs. My volunteer also reached all of the 50 states through an organization called Cards For Hospitalized Kids where I made 32 and ongoing handmade cards for hospitalized children dedicating over 50 hours to my passion for providing comfort to others. My desire to pursue nursing stems from the harsh realities and absence of adequate medical and mental care I witnessed throughout Colombia. During my childhood, I faced numerous health challenges related to my weight and limited access to healthcare due to our economic struggles. A specific incident that stands out is the night I fell severely ill and had to be rushed to the hospital. However, my illness quickly became overshadowed by the shocking conditions I encountered at the clinic. There, I saw both adults and children lying on the floor in anguish, desperately seeking assistance. Some lacked proper clothing, while others suffered from distressing visible injuries.​​This pivotal moment in my life has left an undeniable mark, and Im committed to giving back. Despite being a high school senior, I am resolutely dedicated to pursuing a career as a travel nurse through a four-year university education at California State University Long Beach, with the ultimate goal of offering assistance not only within my nation but also on an international scale. CSULBS nursing program will equip me with the knowledge to one day assist those in need. Once my future is secured, I aspire to volunteer in impoverished countries, such as my homeland, Colombia. I aspire to return to that childhood spirit, but this time, I want to be a source of strength and assistance for children and adults who may be enduring unimaginable suffering, intending to bring them healing.

Like a significant portion of the United States, I am an immigrant. I grew up in Pereira Colombia, with a single mother and a dream. From ages 4 to 6 I vividly remember watching my mother get on the bus at 8 am then off the bus at 10 PM. My mother was not only my financial support, but she was also my emotional shield. Through the windows of my home, I had witnessed multiple murders, robberies, and the horrible effects of alcohol and drugs. After my mother worked 14 hours seven days a week for over six years she finally got the opportunity to move us to the United States specifically North New Jersey with the assistance of some family. My mother laid the groundwork for my future and inspiration. The initial day of school was an utterly distressing experience for me. I distinctly recall feeling like an outsider, struggling to connect with others who didn't seem to understand me, and vice versa. First grade turned into a daily struggle. Despite my tears, I understood the importance of not giving up on her aspirations for a better future. I applied my mother's 14 hours of work seven days a week determination, towards my drive to learn English and my future education. I gained the ability to interact with my classmates and staff, evolving into a supportive figure for children from different Spanish-speaking countries. Bilingualism stands as one of my greatest assets, whether in the realms of work, school, or even during everyday moments like waiting in line at McDonald's. I serve as the bridge uniting two strangers and bringing peace to those in confusion. This drive also allowed me to succeed in my academics and through my middle-high school years I took over 15 honors classes and 5 AP. I became a hands-on volunteer throughout my community by participating in Summer activities for children, library volunteer, school volunteer, and clubs. My volunteer also reached all of the 50 states through an organization called Cards For Hospitalized Kids where I made 32 and ongoing handmade cards for hospitalized children dedicating over 50 hours to my passion for providing comfort to others. My desire to pursue nursing stems from the harsh realities and absence of adequate medical and mental care I witnessed throughout Colombia. During my childhood, I faced numerous health challenges related to my weight and limited access to healthcare due to our economic struggles. A specific incident that stands out is the night I fell severely ill and had to be rushed to the hospital. However, my illness quickly became overshadowed by the shocking conditions I encountered at the clinic. There, I saw both adults and children lying on the floor in anguish, desperately seeking assistance. Some lacked proper clothing, while others suffered from distressing visible injuries.​​This pivotal moment in my life has left an undeniable mark, and Im committed to giving back. Despite being a high school senior, I am resolutely dedicated to pursuing a career as a travel nurse through a four-year university education at California State University Long Beach, with the ultimate goal of offering assistance not only within my nation but also on an international scale. CSULBS nursing program will equip me with the knowledge to one day assist those in need. Once my future is secured, I aspire to volunteer in impoverished countries, such as my homeland, Colombia. I aspire to return to that childhood spirit, but this time, I want to be a source of strength and assistance for children and adults who may be enduring unimaginable suffering, intending to bring them healing.

Like a significant portion of the United States, I am an immigrant. I grew up in Pereira Colombia, with a single mother and a dream. From ages 4 to 6 I vividly remember watching my mother get on the bus at 8 am then off the bus at 10 PM. My mother was not only my financial support, but she was also my emotional shield. Through the windows of my home, I had witnessed multiple murders, robberies, and the horrible effects of alcohol and drugs. After my mother worked 14 hours seven days a week for over six years she finally got the opportunity to move us to the United States specifically North New Jersey with the assistance of some family. My mother laid the groundwork for my future and inspiration. The initial day of school was an utterly distressing experience for me. I distinctly recall feeling like an outsider, struggling to connect with others who didn't seem to understand me, and vice versa. First grade turned into a daily struggle. Despite my tears, I understood the importance of not giving up on her aspirations for a better future. I applied my mother's 14 hours of work seven days a week determination, towards my drive to learn English and my future education. I gained the ability to interact with my classmates and staff, evolving into a supportive figure for children from different Spanish-speaking countries. Bilingualism stands as one of my greatest assets, whether in the realms of work, school, or even during everyday moments like waiting in line at McDonald's. I serve as the bridge uniting two strangers and bringing peace to those in confusion. This drive also allowed me to succeed in my academics and through my middle-high school years I took over 15 honors classes and 5 AP. I became a hands-on volunteer throughout my community by participating in Summer activities for children, library volunteer, school volunteer, and clubs. My volunteer also reached all of the 50 states through an organization called Cards For Hospitalized Kids where I made 32 and ongoing handmade cards for hospitalized children dedicating over 50 hours to my passion for providing comfort to others. My desire to pursue nursing stems from the harsh realities and absence of adequate medical and mental care I witnessed throughout Colombia. During my childhood, I faced numerous health challenges related to my weight and limited access to healthcare due to our economic struggles. A specific incident that stands out is the night I fell severely ill and had to be rushed to the hospital. However, my illness quickly became overshadowed by the shocking conditions I encountered at the clinic. There, I saw both adults and children lying on the floor in anguish, desperately seeking assistance. Some lacked proper clothing, while others suffered from distressing visible injuries.​​This pivotal moment in my life has left an undeniable mark, and Im committed to giving back. Despite being a high school senior, I am resolutely dedicated to pursuing a career as a travel nurse through a four-year university education at California State University Long Beach, with the ultimate goal of offering assistance not only within my nation but also on an international scale. CSULBS nursing program will equip me with the knowledge to one day assist those in need. Once my future is secured, I aspire to volunteer in impoverished countries, such as my homeland, Colombia. I aspire to return to that childhood spirit, but this time, I want to be a source of strength and assistance for children and adults who may be enduring unimaginable suffering, intending to bring them healing.

Like a significant portion of the United States, I am an immigrant. I grew up in Pereira Colombia, with a single mother and a dream. From ages 4 to 6 I vividly remember watching my mother get on the bus at 8 am then off the bus at 10 PM. My mother was not only my financial support, but she was also my emotional shield. Through the windows of my home, I had witnessed multiple murders, robberies, and the horrible effects of alcohol and drugs. After my mother worked 14 hours seven days a week for over six years she finally got the opportunity to move us to the United States specifically North New Jersey with the assistance of some family. My mother laid the groundwork for my future and inspiration. The initial day of school was an utterly distressing experience for me. I distinctly recall feeling like an outsider, struggling to connect with others who didn't seem to understand me, and vice versa. First grade turned into a daily struggle. Despite my tears, I understood the importance of not giving up on her aspirations for a better future. I applied my mother's 14 hours of work seven days a week determination, towards my drive to learn English and my future education. I gained the ability to interact with my classmates and staff, evolving into a supportive figure for children from different Spanish-speaking countries. Bilingualism stands as one of my greatest assets, whether in the realms of work, school, or even during everyday moments like waiting in line at McDonald's. I serve as the bridge uniting two strangers and bringing peace to those in confusion. This drive also allowed me to succeed in my academics and through my middle-high school years I took over 15 honors classes and 5 AP. I became a hands-on volunteer throughout my community by participating in Summer activities for children, library volunteer, school volunteer, and clubs. My volunteer also reached all of the 50 states through an organization called Cards For Hospitalized Kids where I made 32 and ongoing handmade cards for hospitalized children dedicating over 50 hours to my passion for providing comfort to others. My desire to pursue nursing stems from the harsh realities and absence of adequate medical and mental care I witnessed throughout Colombia. During my childhood, I faced numerous health challenges related to my weight and limited access to healthcare due to our economic struggles. A specific incident that stands out is the night I fell severely ill and had to be rushed to the hospital. However, my illness quickly became overshadowed by the shocking conditions I encountered at the clinic. There, I saw both adults and children lying on the floor in anguish, desperately seeking assistance. Some lacked proper clothing, while others suffered from distressing visible injuries.​​This pivotal moment in my life has left an undeniable mark, and Im committed to giving back. Despite being a high school senior, I am resolutely dedicated to pursuing a career as a travel nurse through a four-year university education at California State University Long Beach, with the ultimate goal of offering assistance not only within my nation but also on an international scale. CSULBS nursing program will equip me with the knowledge to one day assist those in need. Once my future is secured, I aspire to volunteer in impoverished countries, such as my homeland, Colombia. I aspire to return to that childhood spirit, but this time, I want to be a source of strength and assistance for children and adults who may be enduring unimaginable suffering, intending to bring them healing.

Like a significant portion of the United States, I am an immigrant. I grew up in Pereira Colombia, with a single mother and a dream. From ages 4 to 6 I vividly remember watching my mother get on the bus at 8 am then off the bus at 10 PM. My mother was not only my financial support, but she was also my emotional shield. Through the windows of my home, I had witnessed multiple murders, robberies, and the horrible effects of alcohol and drugs. After my mother worked 14 hours seven days a week for over six years she finally got the opportunity to move us to the United States specifically North New Jersey with the assistance of some family. My mother laid the groundwork for my future and inspiration. The initial day of school was an utterly distressing experience for me. I distinctly recall feeling like an outsider, struggling to connect with others who didn't seem to understand me, and vice versa. First grade turned into a daily struggle. Despite my tears, I understood the importance of not giving up on her aspirations for a better future. I applied my mother's 14 hours of work seven days a week determination, towards my drive to learn English and my future education. I gained the ability to interact with my classmates and staff, evolving into a supportive figure for children from different Spanish-speaking countries. Bilingualism stands as one of my greatest assets, whether in the realms of work, school, or even during everyday moments like waiting in line at McDonald's. I serve as the bridge uniting two strangers and bringing peace to those in confusion. This drive also allowed me to succeed in my academics and through my middle-high school years I took over 15 honors classes and 5 AP. I became a hands-on volunteer throughout my community by participating in Summer activities for children, library volunteer, school volunteer, and clubs. My volunteer also reached all of the 50 states through an organization called Cards For Hospitalized Kids where I made 32 and ongoing handmade cards for hospitalized children dedicating over 50 hours to my passion for providing comfort to others. My desire to pursue nursing stems from the harsh realities and absence of adequate medical and mental care I witnessed throughout Colombia. During my childhood, I faced numerous health challenges related to my weight and limited access to healthcare due to our economic struggles. A specific incident that stands out is the night I fell severely ill and had to be rushed to the hospital. However, my illness quickly became overshadowed by the shocking conditions I encountered at the clinic. There, I saw both adults and children lying on the floor in anguish, desperately seeking assistance. Some lacked proper clothing, while others suffered from distressing visible injuries.​​This pivotal moment in my life has left an undeniable mark, and Im committed to giving back. Despite being a high school senior, I am resolutely dedicated to pursuing a career as a travel nurse through a four-year university education at California State University Long Beach, with the ultimate goal of offering assistance not only within my nation but also on an international scale. CSULBS nursing program will equip me with the knowledge to one day assist those in need. Once my future is secured, I aspire to volunteer in impoverished countries, such as my homeland, Colombia. I aspire to return to that childhood spirit, but this time, I want to be a source of strength and assistance for children and adults who may be enduring unimaginable suffering, intending to bring them healing.

Like a significant portion of the United States, I am an immigrant. I grew up in Pereira Colombia, with a single mother and a dream. From ages 4 to 6 I vividly remember watching my mother get on the bus at 8 am then off the bus at 10 PM. My mother was not only my financial support, but she was also my emotional shield. Through the windows of my home, I had witnessed multiple murders, robberies, and the horrible effects of alcohol and drugs. After my mother worked 14 hours seven days a week for over six years she finally got the opportunity to move us to the United States specifically North New Jersey with the assistance of some family. My mother laid the groundwork for my future and inspiration. The initial day of school was an utterly distressing experience for me. I distinctly recall feeling like an outsider, struggling to connect with others who didn't seem to understand me, and vice versa. First grade turned into a daily struggle. Despite my tears, I understood the importance of not giving up on her aspirations for a better future. I applied my mother's 14 hours of work seven days a week determination, towards my drive to learn English and my future education. I gained the ability to interact with my classmates and staff, evolving into a supportive figure for children from different Spanish-speaking countries. Bilingualism stands as one of my greatest assets, whether in the realms of work, school, or even during everyday moments like waiting in line at McDonald's. I serve as the bridge uniting two strangers and bringing peace to those in confusion. This drive also allowed me to succeed in my academics and through my middle-high school years I took over 15 honors classes and 5 AP. I became a hands-on volunteer throughout my community by participating in Summer activities for children, library volunteer, school volunteer, and clubs. My volunteer also reached all of the 50 states through an organization called Cards For Hospitalized Kids where I made 32 and ongoing handmade cards for hospitalized children dedicating over 50 hours to my passion for providing comfort to others. My desire to pursue nursing stems from the harsh realities and absence of adequate medical and mental care I witnessed throughout Colombia. During my childhood, I faced numerous health challenges related to my weight and limited access to healthcare due to our economic struggles. A specific incident that stands out is the night I fell severely ill and had to be rushed to the hospital. However, my illness quickly became overshadowed by the shocking conditions I encountered at the clinic. There, I saw both adults and children lying on the floor in anguish, desperately seeking assistance. Some lacked proper clothing, while others suffered from distressing visible injuries.​​This pivotal moment in my life has left an undeniable mark, and Im committed to giving back. Despite being a high school senior, I am resolutely dedicated to pursuing a career as a travel nurse through a four-year university education at California State University Long Beach, with the ultimate goal of offering assistance not only within my nation but also on an international scale. CSULBS nursing program will equip me with the knowledge to one day assist those in need. Once my future is secured, I aspire to volunteer in impoverished countries, such as my homeland, Colombia. I aspire to return to that childhood spirit, but this time, I want to be a source of strength and assistance for children and adults who may be enduring unimaginable suffering, intending to bring them healing.

Like a significant portion of the United States, I am an immigrant. I grew up in Pereira Colombia, with a single mother and a dream. From ages 4 to 6 I vividly remember watching my mother get on the bus at 8 am then off the bus at 10 PM. My mother was not only my financial support, but she was also my emotional shield. Through the windows of my home, I had witnessed multiple murders, robberies, and the horrible effects of alcohol and drugs. After my mother worked 14 hours seven days a week for over six years she finally got the opportunity to move us to the United States specifically North New Jersey with the assistance of some family. My mother laid the groundwork for my future and inspiration. The initial day of school was an utterly distressing experience for me. I distinctly recall feeling like an outsider, struggling to connect with others who didn't seem to understand me, and vice versa. First grade turned into a daily struggle. Despite my tears, I understood the importance of not giving up on her aspirations for a better future. I applied my mother's 14 hours of work seven days a week determination, towards my drive to learn English and my future education. I gained the ability to interact with my classmates and staff, evolving into a supportive figure for children from different Spanish-speaking countries. Bilingualism stands as one of my greatest assets, whether in the realms of work, school, or even during everyday moments like waiting in line at McDonald's. I serve as the bridge uniting two strangers and bringing peace to those in confusion. This drive also allowed me to succeed in my academics and through my middle-high school years I took over 15 honors classes and 5 AP. I became a hands-on volunteer throughout my community by participating in Summer activities for children, library volunteer, school volunteer, and clubs. My volunteer also reached all of the 50 states through an organization called Cards For Hospitalized Kids where I made 32 and ongoing handmade cards for hospitalized children dedicating over 50 hours to my passion for providing comfort to others. My desire to pursue nursing stems from the harsh realities and absence of adequate medical and mental care I witnessed throughout Colombia. During my childhood, I faced numerous health challenges related to my weight and limited access to healthcare due to our economic struggles. A specific incident that stands out is the night I fell severely ill and had to be rushed to the hospital. However, my illness quickly became overshadowed by the shocking conditions I encountered at the clinic. There, I saw both adults and children lying on the floor in anguish, desperately seeking assistance. Some lacked proper clothing, while others suffered from distressing visible injuries.​​This pivotal moment in my life has left an undeniable mark, and Im committed to giving back. Despite being a high school senior, I am resolutely dedicated to pursuing a career as a travel nurse through a four-year university education at California State University Long Beach, with the ultimate goal of offering assistance not only within my nation but also on an international scale. CSULBS nursing program will equip me with the knowledge to one day assist those in need. Once my future is secured, I aspire to volunteer in impoverished countries, such as my homeland, Colombia. I aspire to return to that childhood spirit, but this time, I want to be a source of strength and assistance for children and adults who may be enduring unimaginable suffering, intending to bring them healing.

Like a significant portion of the United States, I am an immigrant. I grew up in Pereira Colombia, with a single mother and a dream. From ages 4 to 6 I vividly remember watching my mother get on the bus at 8 am then off the bus at 10 PM. My mother was not only my financial support, but she was also my emotional shield. Through the windows of my home, I had witnessed multiple murders, robberies, and the horrible effects of alcohol and drugs. After my mother worked 14 hours seven days a week for over six years she finally got the opportunity to move us to the United States specifically North New Jersey with the assistance of some family. My mother laid the groundwork for my future and inspiration. I applied my mother's 14 hours of work seven days a week determination, towards my drive to learn English and my future education. I gained the ability to interact with my classmates and staff, evolving into a supportive figure for children from different Spanish-speaking countries. Bilingualism stands as one of my greatest assets, whether in the realms of work, school, or even during everyday moments like waiting in line at McDonald's. I serve as the bridge uniting two strangers and bringing peace to those in confusion. This drive also allowed me to succeed in my academics and through my middle-high school years I took over 15 honors classes and 5 AP. I became a hands-on volunteer throughout my community by participating in Summer activities for children, library volunteer, school volunteer, and clubs. My volunteer also reached all of the 50 states through an organization called Cards For Hospitalized Kids where I made 32 and ongoing handmade cards for hospitalized children dedicating over 50 hours to my passion for providing comfort to others. My desire to pursue nursing stems from the harsh realities and absence of adequate medical and mental care I witnessed throughout Colombia. During my childhood, I faced numerous health challenges related to my weight and limited access to healthcare due to our economic struggles. A specific incident that stands out is the night I fell severely ill and had to be rushed to the hospital. However, my illness quickly became overshadowed by the shocking conditions I encountered at the clinic. There, I saw both adults and children lying on the floor in anguish, desperately seeking assistance. Some lacked proper clothing, while others suffered from distressing visible injuries.​​This pivotal moment in my life has left an undeniable mark, and Im committed to giving back. Despite being a high school senior, I am resolutely dedicated to pursuing a career as a travel nurse through a four-year university education at California State University Long Beach, with the ultimate goal of offering assistance not only within my nation but also on an international scale. CSULBS nursing program will equip me with the knowledge to one day assist those in need. Once my future is secured, I aspire to volunteer in impoverished countries, such as my homeland, Colombia. I aspire to return to that childhood spirit, but this time, I want to be a source of strength and assistance for children and adults who may be enduring unimaginable suffering, intending to bring them healing and relief.

Like a significant portion of the United States, I am an immigrant. I grew up in Pereira Colombia, with a single mother and a dream. From ages 4 to 6 I vividly remember watching my mother get on the bus at 8 am then off the bus at 10 PM. My mother was not only my financial support, but she was also my emotional shield. Through the windows of my home, I had witnessed multiple murders, robberies, and the horrible effects of alcohol and drugs. After my mother worked 14 hours seven days a week for over six years she finally got the opportunity to move us to the United States specifically North New Jersey with the assistance of some family. My mother laid the groundwork for my future and inspiration. I applied my mother's 14 hours of work seven days a week determination, towards my drive to learn English and my future education. I gained the ability to interact with my classmates and staff, evolving into a supportive figure for children from different Spanish-speaking countries. Bilingualism stands as one of my greatest assets, whether in the realms of work, school, or even during everyday moments like waiting in line at McDonald's. I serve as the bridge uniting two strangers and bringing peace to those in confusion. This drive also allowed me to succeed in my academics and through my middle-high school years I took over 15 honors classes and 5 AP. I became a hands-on volunteer throughout my community by participating in Summer activities for children, library volunteer, school volunteer, and clubs. My volunteer also reached all of the 50 states through an organization called Cards For Hospitalized Kids where I made 32 and ongoing handmade cards for hospitalized children dedicating over 50 hours to my passion for providing comfort to others. My desire to pursue nursing stems from the harsh realities and absence of adequate medical and mental care I witnessed throughout Colombia. During my childhood, I faced numerous health challenges related to my weight and limited access to healthcare due to our economic struggles. A specific incident that stands out is the night I fell severely ill and had to be rushed to the hospital. However, my illness quickly became overshadowed by the shocking conditions I encountered at the clinic. There, I saw both adults and children lying on the floor in anguish, desperately seeking assistance. Some lacked proper clothing, while others suffered from distressing visible injuries.​​This pivotal moment in my life has left an undeniable mark, and Im committed to giving back. Despite being a high school senior, I am resolutely dedicated to pursuing a career as a travel nurse through a four-year university education at California State University Long Beach, with the ultimate goal of offering assistance not only within my nation but also on an international scale. CSULBS nursing program will equip me with the knowledge to one day assist those in need. Once my future is secured, I aspire to volunteer in impoverished countries, such as my homeland, Colombia. I aspire to return to that childhood spirit, but this time, I want to be a source of strength and assistance for children and adults who may be enduring unimaginable suffering, intending to bring them healing and relief.

Like a significant portion of the United States, I am an immigrant. I grew up in Pereira Colombia, with a single mother and a dream. From ages 4 to 6 I vividly remember watching my mother get on the bus at 8 am then off the bus at 10 PM. My mother was not only my financial support, but she was also my emotional shield. Through the windows of my home, I had witnessed multiple murders, robberies, and the horrible effects of alcohol and drugs. After my mother worked 14 hours seven days a week for over six years she finally got the opportunity to move us to the United States specifically North New Jersey with the assistance of some family. My mother laid the groundwork for my future and inspiration. I applied my mother's 14 hours of work seven days a week determination, towards my drive to learn English and my future education. I gained the ability to interact with my classmates and staff, evolving into a supportive figure for children from different Spanish-speaking countries. Bilingualism stands as one of my greatest assets, whether in the realms of work, school, or even during everyday moments like waiting in line at McDonald's. I serve as the bridge uniting two strangers and bringing peace to those in confusion. This drive also allowed me to succeed in my academics and through my middle-high school years I took over 15 honors classes and 5 AP. I became a hands-on volunteer throughout my community by participating in Summer activities for children, library volunteer, school volunteer, and clubs. My volunteer also reached all of the 50 states through an organization called Cards For Hospitalized Kids where I made 32 and ongoing handmade cards for hospitalized children dedicating over 50 hours to my passion for providing comfort to others. My desire to pursue nursing stems from the harsh realities and absence of adequate medical and mental care I witnessed throughout Colombia. During my childhood, I faced numerous health challenges related to my weight and limited access to healthcare due to our economic struggles. A specific incident that stands out is the night I fell severely ill and had to be rushed to the hospital. However, my illness quickly became overshadowed by the shocking conditions I encountered at the clinic. There, I saw both adults and children lying on the floor in anguish, desperately seeking assistance. Some lacked proper clothing, while others suffered from distressing visible injuries.​​This pivotal moment in my life has left an undeniable mark, and Im committed to giving back. Despite being a high school senior, I am resolutely dedicated to pursuing a career as a travel nurse through a four-year university education at California State University Long Beach, with the ultimate goal of offering assistance not only within my nation but also on an international scale. CSULBS nursing program will equip me with the knowledge to one day assist those in need. Once my future is secured, I aspire to volunteer in impoverished countries, such as my homeland, Colombia. I aspire to return to that childhood spirit, but this time, I want to be a source of strength and assistance for children and adults who may be enduring unimaginable suffering, intending to bring them healing and relief.

Like a significant portion of the United States, I am an immigrant. I grew up in Pereira Colombia, with a single mother and a dream. From ages 4 to 6 I vividly remember watching my mother get on the bus at 8 am then off the bus at 10 PM. My mother was not only my financial support, but she was also my emotional shield. Through the windows of my home, I had witnessed multiple murders, robberies, and the horrible effects of alcohol and drugs. After my mother worked 14 hours seven days a week for over six years she finally got the opportunity to move us to the United States specifically North New Jersey with the assistance of some family. My mother laid the groundwork for my future and inspiration. I applied my mother's 14 hours of work seven days a week determination, towards my drive to learn English and my future education. I gained the ability to interact with my classmates and staff, evolving into a supportive figure for children from different Spanish-speaking countries. Bilingualism stands as one of my greatest assets, whether in the realms of work, school, or even during everyday moments like waiting in line at McDonald's. I serve as the bridge uniting two strangers and bringing peace to those in confusion. This drive also allowed me to succeed in my academics and through my middle-high school years I took over 15 honors classes and 5 AP. I became a hands-on volunteer throughout my community by participating in Summer activities for children, library volunteer, school volunteer, and clubs. My volunteer also reached all of the 50 states through an organization called Cards For Hospitalized Kids where I made 32 and ongoing handmade cards for hospitalized children dedicating over 50 hours to my passion for providing comfort to others. My desire to pursue nursing stems from the harsh realities and absence of adequate medical and mental care I witnessed throughout Colombia. During my childhood, I faced numerous health challenges related to my weight and limited access to healthcare due to our economic struggles. A specific incident that stands out is the night I fell severely ill and had to be rushed to the hospital. However, my illness quickly became overshadowed by the shocking conditions I encountered at the clinic. There, I saw both adults and children lying on the floor in anguish, desperately seeking assistance. Some lacked proper clothing, while others suffered from distressing visible injuries.​​This pivotal moment in my life has left an undeniable mark, and Im committed to giving back. Despite being a high school senior, I am resolutely dedicated to pursuing a career as a travel nurse through a four-year university education at California State University Long Beach, with the ultimate goal of offering assistance not only within my nation but also on an international scale. CSULBS nursing program will equip me with the knowledge to one day assist those in need. Once my future is secured, I aspire to volunteer in impoverished countries, such as my homeland, Colombia. I aspire to return to that childhood spirit, but this time, I want to be a source of strength and assistance for children and adults who may be enduring unimaginable suffering, intending to bring them healing and relief.

Like a significant portion of the United States, I am an immigrant. I grew up in Pereira Colombia, with a single mother and a dream. From ages 4 to 6 I vividly remember watching my mother get on the bus at 8 am then off the bus at 10 PM. My mother was not only my financial support, but she was also my emotional shield. Through the windows of my home, I had witnessed multiple murders, robberies, and the horrible effects of alcohol and drugs. After my mother worked 14 hours seven days a week for over six years she finally got the opportunity to move us to the United States specifically North New Jersey with the assistance of some family. My mother laid the groundwork for my future and inspiration. I applied my mother's 14 hours of work seven days a week determination, towards my drive to learn English and my future education. I gained the ability to interact with my classmates and staff, evolving into a supportive figure for children from different Spanish-speaking countries. Bilingualism stands as one of my greatest assets, whether in the realms of work, school, or even during everyday moments like waiting in line at McDonald's. I serve as the bridge uniting two strangers and bringing peace to those in confusion. This drive also allowed me to succeed in my academics and through my middle-high school years I took over 15 honors classes and 5 AP. I became a hands-on volunteer throughout my community by participating in Summer activities for children, library volunteer, school volunteer, and clubs. My volunteer also reached all of the 50 states through an organization called Cards For Hospitalized Kids where I made 32 and ongoing handmade cards for hospitalized children dedicating over 50 hours to my passion for providing comfort to others. My desire to pursue nursing stems from the harsh realities and absence of adequate medical and mental care I witnessed throughout Colombia. During my childhood, I faced numerous health challenges related to my weight and limited access to healthcare due to our economic struggles. A specific incident that stands out is the night I fell severely ill and had to be rushed to the hospital. However, my illness quickly became overshadowed by the shocking conditions I encountered at the clinic. There, I saw both adults and children lying on the floor in anguish, desperately seeking assistance. Some lacked proper clothing, while others suffered from distressing visible injuries.​​This pivotal moment in my life has left an undeniable mark, and Im committed to giving back. Despite being a high school senior, I am resolutely dedicated to pursuing a career as a travel nurse through a four-year university education at California State University Long Beach, with the ultimate goal of offering assistance not only within my nation but also on an international scale. CSULBS nursing program will equip me with the knowledge to one day assist those in need. Once my future is secured, I aspire to volunteer in impoverished countries, such as my homeland, Colombia. I aspire to return to that childhood spirit, but this time, I want to be a source of strength and assistance for children and adults who may be enduring unimaginable suffering, intending to bring them healing and relief.

Like a significant portion of the United States, I am an immigrant. I grew up in Pereira Colombia, with a single mother and a dream. From ages 4 to 6 I vividly remember watching my mother get on the bus at 8 am then off the bus at 10 PM. My mother was not only my financial support, but she was also my emotional shield. Through the windows of my home, I had witnessed multiple murders, robberies, and the horrible effects of alcohol and drugs. After my mother worked 14 hours seven days a week for over six years she finally got the opportunity to move us to the United States specifically North New Jersey with the assistance of some family. My mother laid the groundwork for my future and inspiration. I applied my mother's 14 hours of work seven days a week determination, towards my drive to learn English and my future education. I gained the ability to interact with my classmates and staff, evolving into a supportive figure for children from different Spanish-speaking countries. Bilingualism stands as one of my greatest assets, whether in the realms of work, school, or even during everyday moments like waiting in line at McDonald's. I serve as the bridge uniting two strangers and bringing peace to those in confusion. This drive also allowed me to succeed in my academics and through my middle-high school years I took over 15 honors classes and 5 AP. I became a hands-on volunteer throughout my community by participating in Summer activities for children, library volunteer, school volunteer, and clubs. My volunteer also reached all of the 50 states through an organization called Cards For Hospitalized Kids where I made 32 and ongoing handmade cards for hospitalized children dedicating over 50 hours to my passion for providing comfort to others. My desire to pursue nursing stems from the harsh realities and absence of adequate medical and mental care I witnessed throughout Colombia. During my childhood, I faced numerous health challenges related to my weight and limited access to healthcare due to our economic struggles. A specific incident that stands out is the night I fell severely ill and had to be rushed to the hospital. However, my illness quickly became overshadowed by the shocking conditions I encountered at the clinic. There, I saw both adults and children lying on the floor in anguish, desperately seeking assistance. Some lacked proper clothing, while others suffered from distressing visible injuries.​​This pivotal moment in my life has left an undeniable mark, and Im committed to giving back. Despite being a high school senior, I am resolutely dedicated to pursuing a career as a travel nurse through a four-year university education at California State University Long Beach, with the ultimate goal of offering assistance not only within my nation but also on an international scale. CSULBS nursing program will equip me with the knowledge to one day assist those in need. Once my future is secured, I aspire to volunteer in impoverished countries, such as my homeland, Colombia. I aspire to return to that childhood spirit, but this time, I want to be a source of strength and assistance for children and adults who may be enduring unimaginable suffering, intending to bring them healing and relief.

Like a significant portion of the United States, I am an immigrant. I grew up in Pereira Colombia, with a single mother and a dream. From ages 4 to 6 I vividly remember watching my mother get on the bus at 8 am then off the bus at 10 PM. My mother was not only my financial support, but she was also my emotional shield. Through the windows of my home, I had witnessed multiple murders, robberies, and the horrible effects of alcohol and drugs. After my mother worked 14 hours seven days a week for over six years she finally got the opportunity to move us to the United States specifically North New Jersey with the assistance of some family. My mother laid the groundwork for my future and inspiration. I applied my mother's 14 hours of work seven days a week determination, towards my drive to learn English and my future education. I gained the ability to interact with my classmates and staff, evolving into a supportive figure for children from different Spanish-speaking countries. Bilingualism stands as one of my greatest assets, whether in the realms of work, school, or even during everyday moments like waiting in line at McDonald's. I serve as the bridge uniting two strangers and bringing peace to those in confusion. This drive also allowed me to succeed in my academics and through my middle-high school years I took over 15 honors classes and 5 AP. I became a hands-on volunteer throughout my community by participating in Summer activities for children, library volunteer, school volunteer, and clubs. My volunteer also reached all of the 50 states through an organization called Cards For Hospitalized Kids where I made 32 and ongoing handmade cards for hospitalized children dedicating over 50 hours to my passion for providing comfort to others. My desire to pursue nursing stems from the harsh realities and absence of adequate medical and mental care I witnessed throughout Colombia. During my childhood, I faced numerous health challenges related to my weight and limited access to healthcare due to our economic struggles. A specific incident that stands out is the night I fell severely ill and had to be rushed to the hospital. However, my illness quickly became overshadowed by the shocking conditions I encountered at the clinic. There, I saw both adults and children lying on the floor in anguish, desperately seeking assistance. Some lacked proper clothing, while others suffered from distressing visible injuries.​​This pivotal moment in my life has left an undeniable mark, and Im committed to giving back. Despite being a high school senior, I am resolutely dedicated to pursuing a career as a travel nurse through a four-year university education at California State University Long Beach, with the ultimate goal of offering assistance not only within my nation but also on an international scale. CSULBS nursing program will equip me with the knowledge to one day assist those in need. Once my future is secured, I aspire to volunteer in impoverished countries, such as my homeland, Colombia. I aspire to return to that childhood spirit, but this time, I want to be a source of strength and assistance for children and adults who may be enduring unimaginable suffering, intending to bring them healing and relief.

Like a significant portion of the United States, I am an immigrant. I grew up in Pereira Colombia, with a single mother and a dream. From ages 4 to 6 I vividly remember watching my mother get on the bus at 8 am then off the bus at 10 PM. My mother was not only my financial support, but she was also my emotional shield. Through the windows of my home, I had witnessed multiple murders, robberies, and the horrible effects of alcohol and drugs. After my mother worked 14 hours seven days a week for over six years she finally got the opportunity to move us to the United States specifically North New Jersey with the assistance of some family. My mother laid the groundwork for my future and inspiration. I applied my mother's 14 hours of work seven days a week determination, towards my drive to learn English and my future education. I gained the ability to interact with my classmates and staff, evolving into a supportive figure for children from different Spanish-speaking countries. Bilingualism stands as one of my greatest assets, whether in the realms of work, school, or even during everyday moments like waiting in line at McDonald's. I serve as the bridge uniting two strangers and bringing peace to those in confusion. This drive also allowed me to succeed in my academics and through my middle-high school years I took over 15 honors classes and 5 AP. I became a hands-on volunteer throughout my community by participating in Summer activities for children, library volunteer, school volunteer, and clubs. My volunteer also reached all of the 50 states through an organization called Cards For Hospitalized Kids where I made 32 and ongoing handmade cards for hospitalized children dedicating over 50 hours to my passion for providing comfort to others. My desire to pursue nursing stems from the harsh realities and absence of adequate medical and mental care I witnessed throughout Colombia. During my childhood, I faced numerous health challenges related to my weight and limited access to healthcare due to our economic struggles. A specific incident that stands out is the night I fell severely ill and had to be rushed to the hospital. However, my illness quickly became overshadowed by the shocking conditions I encountered at the clinic. There, I saw both adults and children lying on the floor in anguish, desperately seeking assistance. Some lacked proper clothing, while others suffered from distressing visible injuries.​​This pivotal moment in my life has left an undeniable mark, and Im committed to giving back. Despite being a high school senior, I am resolutely dedicated to pursuing a career as a travel nurse through a four-year university education at California State University Long Beach, with the ultimate goal of offering assistance not only within my nation but also on an international scale. CSULBS nursing program will equip me with the knowledge to one day assist those in need. Once my future is secured, I aspire to volunteer in impoverished countries, such as my homeland, Colombia. I aspire to return to that childhood spirit, but this time, I want to be a source of strength and assistance for children and adults who may be enduring unimaginable suffering, intending to bring them healing and relief.

Like a significant portion of the United States, I am an immigrant. I grew up in Pereira Colombia, with a single mother and a dream. From ages 4 to 6 I vividly remember watching my mother get on the bus at 8 am then off the bus at 10 PM. My mother was not only my financial support, but she was also my emotional shield. Through the windows of my home, I had witnessed multiple murders, robberies, and the horrible effects of alcohol and drugs. After my mother worked 14 hours seven days a week for over six years she finally got the opportunity to move us to the United States specifically North New Jersey with the assistance of some family. My mother laid the groundwork for my future and inspiration. The initial day of school was an utterly distressing experience for me. I distinctly recall feeling like an outsider, struggling to connect with others who didn't seem to understand me, and vice versa. First grade turned into a daily struggle. Despite my tears, I understood the importance of not giving up on her aspirations for a better future. I applied my mother's 14 hours of work seven days a week determination, towards my drive to learn English and my future education. I gained the ability to interact with my classmates and staff, evolving into a supportive figure for children from different Spanish-speaking countries. Bilingualism stands as one of my greatest assets, whether in the realms of work, school, or even during everyday moments like waiting in line at McDonald's. I serve as the bridge uniting two strangers and bringing peace to those in confusion. This drive also allowed me to succeed in my academics and through my middle-high school years I took over 15 honors classes and 5 AP. I became a hands-on volunteer throughout my community by participating in Summer activities for children, library volunteer, school volunteer, and clubs. My volunteer also reached all of the 50 states through an organization called Cards For Hospitalized Kids where I made 32 and ongoing handmade cards for hospitalized children dedicating over 50 hours to my passion for providing comfort to others. My desire to pursue nursing stems from the harsh realities and absence of adequate medical and mental care I witnessed throughout Colombia. During my childhood, I faced numerous health challenges related to my weight and limited access to healthcare due to our economic struggles. A specific incident that stands out is the night I fell severely ill and had to be rushed to the hospital. However, my illness quickly became overshadowed by the shocking conditions I encountered at the clinic. There, I saw both adults and children lying on the floor in anguish, desperately seeking assistance. Some lacked proper clothing, while others suffered from distressing visible injuries.​​This pivotal moment in my life has left an undeniable mark, and Im committed to giving back. Despite being a high school senior, I am resolutely dedicated to pursuing a career as a travel nurse through a four-year university education at California State University Long Beach, with the ultimate goal of offering assistance not only within my nation but also on an international scale. CSULBS nursing program will equip me with the knowledge to one day assist those in need. Once my future is secured, I aspire to volunteer in impoverished countries, such as my homeland, Colombia. I aspire to return to that childhood spirit, but this time, I want to be a source of strength and assistance for children and adults who may be enduring unimaginable suffering, intending to bring them healing.

Like a significant portion of the United States, I am an immigrant. I grew up in Pereira Colombia, with a single mother and a dream. From ages 4 to 6 I vividly remember watching my mother get on the bus at 8 am then off the bus at 10 PM. My mother was not only my financial support, but she was also my emotional shield. Through the windows of my home, I had witnessed multiple murders, robberies, and the horrible effects of alcohol and drugs. After my mother worked 14 hours seven days a week for over six years she finally got the opportunity to move us to the United States specifically North New Jersey with the assistance of some family. My mother laid the groundwork for my future and inspiration. I applied my mother's 14 hours of work seven days a week determination, towards my drive to learn English and my future education. I gained the ability to interact with my classmates and staff, evolving into a supportive figure for children from different Spanish-speaking countries. Bilingualism stands as one of my greatest assets, whether in the realms of work, school, or even during everyday moments like waiting in line at McDonald's. I serve as the bridge uniting two strangers and bringing peace to those in confusion. This drive also allowed me to succeed in my academics and through my middle-high school years I took over 15 honors classes and 5 AP. I became a hands-on volunteer throughout my community by participating in Summer activities for children, library volunteer, school volunteer, and clubs. My volunteer also reached all of the 50 states through an organization called Cards For Hospitalized Kids where I made 32 and ongoing handmade cards for hospitalized children dedicating over 50 hours to my passion for providing comfort to others. My desire to pursue nursing stems from the harsh realities and absence of adequate medical and mental care I witnessed throughout Colombia. During my childhood, I faced numerous health challenges related to my weight and limited access to healthcare due to our economic struggles. A specific incident that stands out is the night I fell severely ill and had to be rushed to the hospital. However, my illness quickly became overshadowed by the shocking conditions I encountered at the clinic. There, I saw both adults and children lying on the floor in anguish, desperately seeking assistance. This pivotal moment in my life has left an undeniable mark, and Im committed to giving back.I am resolutely dedicated to pursuing a career as a travel nurse through a four-year university education at California State University Long Beach, with the ultimate goal of offering assistance not only within my nation but also on an international scale. Once my future is secured, I aspire to volunteer in impoverished countries, such as my homeland, Colombia. I aspire to be a source of strength and assistance for children and adults who may be enduring unimaginable suffering, intending to bring them healing.

Like a significant portion of the United States, I am an immigrant. I grew up in Pereira Colombia, with a single mother and a dream. From ages 4 to 6 I vividly remember watching my mother get on the bus at 8 am then off the bus at 10 PM. My mother was not only my financial support, but she was also my emotional shield. Through the windows of my home, I had witnessed multiple murders, robberies, and the horrible effects of alcohol and drugs. After my mother worked 14 hours seven days a week for over six years she finally got the opportunity to move us to the United States specifically North New Jersey with the assistance of some family. My mother laid the groundwork for my future and inspiration. The initial day of school was an utterly distressing experience for me. I distinctly recall feeling like an outsider, struggling to connect with others who didn't seem to understand me, and vice versa. First grade turned into a daily struggle. Despite my tears, I understood the importance of not giving up on her aspirations for a better future. I applied my mother's 14 hours of work seven days a week determination, towards my drive to learn English and my future education. I gained the ability to interact with my classmates and staff, evolving into a supportive figure for children from different Spanish-speaking countries. Bilingualism stands as one of my greatest assets, whether in the realms of work, school, or even during everyday moments like waiting in line at McDonald's. I serve as the bridge uniting two strangers and bringing peace to those in confusion. This drive also allowed me to succeed in my academics and through my middle-high school years I took over 15 honors classes and 5 AP. I became a hands-on volunteer throughout my community by participating in Summer activities for children, library volunteer, school volunteer, and clubs. My volunteer also reached all of the 50 states through an organization called Cards For Hospitalized Kids where I made 32 and ongoing handmade cards for hospitalized children dedicating over 50 hours to my passion for providing comfort to others. My desire to pursue nursing stems from the harsh realities and absence of adequate medical and mental care I witnessed throughout Colombia. During my childhood, I faced numerous health challenges related to my weight and limited access to healthcare due to our economic struggles. A specific incident that stands out is the night I fell severely ill and had to be rushed to the hospital. However, my illness quickly became overshadowed by the shocking conditions I encountered at the clinic. There, I saw both adults and children lying on the floor in anguish, desperately seeking assistance. Some lacked proper clothing, while others suffered from distressing visible injuries.​​This pivotal moment in my life has left an undeniable mark, and Im committed to giving back. Despite being a high school senior, I am resolutely dedicated to pursuing a career as a travel nurse through a four-year university education at California State University Long Beach, with the ultimate goal of offering assistance not only within my nation but also on an international scale. CSULBS nursing program will equip me with the knowledge to one day assist those in need. Once my future is secured, I aspire to volunteer in impoverished countries, such as my homeland, Colombia. I aspire to return to that childhood spirit, but this time, I want to be a source of strength and assistance for children and adults who may be enduring unimaginable suffering, intending to bring them healing.

Like a significant portion of the United States, I am an immigrant. I grew up in Pereira Colombia, with a single mother and a dream. From ages 4 to 6 I vividly remember watching my mother get on the bus at 8 am then off the bus at 10 PM. My mother was not only my financial support, but she was also my emotional shield. Through the windows of my home, I had witnessed multiple murders, robberies, and the horrible effects of alcohol and drugs. After my mother worked 14 hours seven days a week for over six years she finally got the opportunity to move us to the United States specifically North New Jersey with the assistance of some family. My mother laid the groundwork for my future and inspiration. The initial day of school was an utterly distressing experience for me. I distinctly recall feeling like an outsider, struggling to connect with others who didn't seem to understand me, and vice versa. First grade turned into a daily struggle. Despite my tears, I understood the importance of not giving up on her aspirations for a better future. I applied my mother's 14 hours of work seven days a week determination, towards my drive to learn English and my future education. I gained the ability to interact with my classmates and staff, evolving into a supportive figure for children from different Spanish-speaking countries. Bilingualism stands as one of my greatest assets, whether in the realms of work, school, or even during everyday moments like waiting in line at McDonald's. I serve as the bridge uniting two strangers and bringing peace to those in confusion. This drive also allowed me to succeed in my academics and through my middle-high school years I took over 15 honors classes and 5 AP. I became a hands-on volunteer throughout my community by participating in Summer activities for children, library volunteer, school volunteer, and clubs. My volunteer also reached all of the 50 states through an organization called Cards For Hospitalized Kids where I made 32 and ongoing handmade cards for hospitalized children dedicating over 50 hours to my passion for providing comfort to others. My desire to pursue nursing stems from the harsh realities and absence of adequate medical and mental care I witnessed throughout Colombia. During my childhood, I faced numerous health challenges related to my weight and limited access to healthcare due to our economic struggles. A specific incident that stands out is the night I fell severely ill and had to be rushed to the hospital. However, my illness quickly became overshadowed by the shocking conditions I encountered at the clinic. There, I saw both adults and children lying on the floor in anguish, desperately seeking assistance. Some lacked proper clothing, while others suffered from distressing visible injuries.​​This pivotal moment in my life has left an undeniable mark, and Im committed to giving back. Despite being a high school senior, I am resolutely dedicated to pursuing a career as a travel nurse through a four-year university education at California State University Long Beach, with the ultimate goal of offering assistance not only within my nation but also on an international scale. CSULBS nursing program will equip me with the knowledge to one day assist those in need. Once my future is secured, I aspire to volunteer in impoverished countries, such as my homeland, Colombia. I aspire to return to that childhood spirit, but this time, I want to be a source of strength and assistance for children and adults who may be enduring unimaginable suffering, intending to bring them healing.

Like a significant portion of the United States, I am an immigrant. I grew up in Pereira Colombia, with a single mother and a dream. From ages 4 to 6 I vividly remember watching my mother get on the bus at 8 am then off the bus at 10 PM. My mother was not only my financial support, but she was also my emotional shield. Through the windows of my home, I had witnessed multiple murders, robberies, and the horrible effects of alcohol and drugs. After my mother worked 14 hours seven days a week for over six years she finally got the opportunity to move us to the United States specifically North New Jersey with the assistance of some family. My mother laid the groundwork for my future and inspiration. The initial day of school was an utterly distressing experience for me. I distinctly recall feeling like an outsider, struggling to connect with others who didn't seem to understand me, and vice versa. First grade turned into a daily struggle. Despite my tears, I understood the importance of not giving up on her aspirations for a better future. I applied my mother's 14 hours of work seven days a week determination, towards my drive to learn English and my future education. I gained the ability to interact with my classmates and staff, evolving into a supportive figure for children from different Spanish-speaking countries. Bilingualism stands as one of my greatest assets, whether in the realms of work, school, or even during everyday moments like waiting in line at McDonald's. I serve as the bridge uniting two strangers and bringing peace to those in confusion. This drive also allowed me to succeed in my academics and through my middle-high school years I took over 15 honors classes and 5 AP. I became a hands-on volunteer throughout my community by participating in Summer activities for children, library volunteer, school volunteer, and clubs. My volunteer also reached all of the 50 states through an organization called Cards For Hospitalized Kids where I made 32 and ongoing handmade cards for hospitalized children dedicating over 50 hours to my passion for providing comfort to others. My desire to pursue nursing stems from the harsh realities and absence of adequate medical and mental care I witnessed throughout Colombia. During my childhood, I faced numerous health challenges related to my weight and limited access to healthcare due to our economic struggles. A specific incident that stands out is the night I fell severely ill and had to be rushed to the hospital. However, my illness quickly became overshadowed by the shocking conditions I encountered at the clinic. There, I saw both adults and children lying on the floor in anguish, desperately seeking assistance. Some lacked proper clothing, while others suffered from distressing visible injuries.​​This pivotal moment in my life has left an undeniable mark, and Im committed to giving back. Despite being a high school senior, I am resolutely dedicated to pursuing a career as a travel nurse through a four-year university education at California State University Long Beach, with the ultimate goal of offering assistance not only within my nation but also on an international scale. CSULBS nursing program will equip me with the knowledge to one day assist those in need. Once my future is secured, I aspire to volunteer in impoverished countries, such as my homeland, Colombia. I aspire to return to that childhood spirit, but this time, I want to be a source of strength and assistance for children and adults who may be enduring unimaginable suffering, intending to bring them healing.

Like a significant portion of the United States, I am an immigrant. I grew up in Pereira Colombia, with a single mother and a dream. From ages 4 to 6 I vividly remember watching my mother get on the bus at 8 am then off the bus at 10 PM. My mother was not only my financial support, but she was also my emotional shield. Through the windows of my home, I had witnessed multiple murders, robberies, and the horrible effects of alcohol and drugs. After my mother worked 14 hours seven days a week for over six years she finally got the opportunity to move us to the United States specifically North New Jersey with the assistance of some family. My mother laid the groundwork for my future and inspiration. I applied my mother's 14 hours of work seven days a week determination, towards my drive to learn English and my future education. I gained the ability to interact with my classmates and staff, evolving into a supportive figure for children from different Spanish-speaking countries. Bilingualism stands as one of my greatest assets, whether in the realms of work, school, or even during everyday moments like waiting in line at McDonald's. I serve as the bridge uniting two strangers and bringing peace to those in confusion. This drive also allowed me to succeed in my academics and through my middle-high school years I took over 15 honors classes and 5 AP. I became a hands-on volunteer throughout my community by participating in Summer activities for children, library volunteer, school volunteer, and clubs. My volunteer also reached all of the 50 states through an organization called Cards For Hospitalized Kids where I made 32 and ongoing handmade cards for hospitalized children dedicating over 50 hours to my passion for providing comfort to others. My desire to pursue nursing stems from the harsh realities and absence of adequate medical and mental care I witnessed throughout Colombia. During my childhood, I faced numerous health challenges related to my weight and limited access to healthcare due to our economic struggles. A specific incident that stands out is the night I fell severely ill and had to be rushed to the hospital. However, my illness quickly became overshadowed by the shocking conditions I encountered at the clinic. There, I saw both adults and children lying on the floor in anguish, desperately seeking assistance. Some lacked proper clothing, while others suffered from distressing visible injuries.​​This pivotal moment in my life has left an undeniable mark, and Im committed to giving back. Despite being a high school senior, I am resolutely dedicated to pursuing a career as a travel nurse through a four-year university education at California State University Long Beach, with the ultimate goal of offering assistance not only within my nation but also on an international scale. CSULBS nursing program will equip me with the knowledge to one day assist those in need.Despite financial challenges, my dream since childhood has been to live in California, but being an out-of-state student means facing higher tuition and my financial aid estimate came out to 40k a year, meaning I would have to take out a lot of student loans that would affect me greatly in the future. Once my future is secured, I aspire to volunteer in impoverished countries, such as my homeland, Colombia. I aspire to return to that childhood spirit, but this time, I want to be a source of strength and assistance for children and adults who may be enduring unimaginable suffering, intending to bring them healing.

Like a significant portion of the United States, I am an immigrant. I grew up in Pereira Colombia, with a single mother and a dream. From ages 4 to 6 I vividly remember watching my mother get on the bus at 8 am then off the bus at 10 PM. My mother was not only my financial support, but she was also my emotional shield. Through the windows of my home, I had witnessed multiple murders, robberies, and the horrible effects of alcohol and drugs. After my mother worked 14 hours seven days a week for over six years she finally got the opportunity to move us to the United States specifically North New Jersey with the assistance of some family. My mother laid the groundwork for my future and inspiration. The initial day of school was an utterly distressing experience for me. I distinctly recall feeling like an outsider, struggling to connect with others who didn't seem to understand me, and vice versa. First grade turned into a daily struggle. Despite my tears, I understood the importance of not giving up on her aspirations for a better future. I applied my mother's 14 hours of work seven days a week determination, towards my drive to learn English and my future education. I gained the ability to interact with my classmates and staff, evolving into a supportive figure for children from different Spanish-speaking countries. Bilingualism stands as one of my greatest assets, whether in the realms of work, school, or even during everyday moments like waiting in line at McDonald's. I serve as the bridge uniting two strangers and bringing peace to those in confusion. This drive also allowed me to succeed in my academics and through my middle-high school years I took over 15 honors classes and 5 AP. I became a hands-on volunteer throughout my community by participating in Summer activities for children, library volunteer, school volunteer, and clubs. My volunteer also reached all of the 50 states through an organization called Cards For Hospitalized Kids where I made 32 and ongoing handmade cards for hospitalized children dedicating over 50 hours to my passion for providing comfort to others. My desire to pursue nursing stems from the harsh realities and absence of adequate medical and mental care I witnessed throughout Colombia. During my childhood, I faced numerous health challenges related to my weight and limited access to healthcare due to our economic struggles. A specific incident that stands out is the night I fell severely ill and had to be rushed to the hospital. However, my illness quickly became overshadowed by the shocking conditions I encountered at the clinic. There, I saw both adults and children lying on the floor in anguish, desperately seeking assistance. Some lacked proper clothing, while others suffered from distressing visible injuries.​​This pivotal moment in my life has left an undeniable mark, and Im committed to giving back. Despite being a high school senior, I am resolutely dedicated to pursuing a career as a travel nurse through a four-year university education at California State University Long Beach, with the ultimate goal of offering assistance not only within my nation but also on an international scale. CSULBS nursing program will equip me with the knowledge to one day assist those in need. Once my future is secured, I aspire to volunteer in impoverished countries, such as my homeland, Colombia. I aspire to return to that childhood spirit, but this time, I want to be a source of strength and assistance for children and adults who may be enduring unimaginable suffering, intending to bring them healing.

Like a significant portion of the United States, I am an immigrant. I grew up in Pereira Colombia, with a single mother and a dream. From ages 4 to 6 I vividly remember watching my mother get on the bus at 8 am then off the bus at 10 PM. My mother was not only my financial support, but she was also my emotional shield. Through the windows of my home, I had witnessed multiple murders, robberies, and the horrible effects of alcohol and drugs. After my mother worked 14 hours seven days a week for over six years she finally got the opportunity to move us to the United States specifically North New Jersey with the assistance of some family. My mother laid the groundwork for my future and inspiration. The initial day of school was an utterly distressing experience for me. I distinctly recall feeling like an outsider, struggling to connect with others who didn't seem to understand me, and vice versa. First grade turned into a daily struggle. Despite my tears, I understood the importance of not giving up on her aspirations for a better future. I applied my mother's 14 hours of work seven days a week determination, towards my drive to learn English and my future education. I gained the ability to interact with my classmates and staff, evolving into a supportive figure for children from different Spanish-speaking countries. Bilingualism stands as one of my greatest assets, whether in the realms of work, school, or even during everyday moments like waiting in line at McDonald's. I serve as the bridge uniting two strangers and bringing peace to those in confusion. This drive also allowed me to succeed in my academics and through my middle-high school years I took over 15 honors classes and 5 AP. I became a hands-on volunteer throughout my community by participating in Summer activities for children, library volunteer, school volunteer, and clubs. My volunteer also reached all of the 50 states through an organization called Cards For Hospitalized Kids where I made 32 and ongoing handmade cards for hospitalized children dedicating over 50 hours to my passion for providing comfort to others. My desire to pursue nursing stems from the harsh realities and absence of adequate medical and mental care I witnessed throughout Colombia. During my childhood, I faced numerous health challenges related to my weight and limited access to healthcare due to our economic struggles. A specific incident that stands out is the night I fell severely ill and had to be rushed to the hospital. However, my illness quickly became overshadowed by the shocking conditions I encountered at the clinic. There, I saw both adults and children lying on the floor in anguish, desperately seeking assistance. Some lacked proper clothing, while others suffered from distressing visible injuries.​​This pivotal moment in my life has left an undeniable mark, and Im committed to giving back. Despite being a high school senior, I am resolutely dedicated to pursuing a career as a travel nurse through a four-year university education at California State University Long Beach, with the ultimate goal of offering assistance not only within my nation but also on an international scale. CSULBS nursing program will equip me with the knowledge to one day assist those in need. Once my future is secured, I aspire to volunteer in impoverished countries, such as my homeland, Colombia. I aspire to return to that childhood spirit, but this time, I want to be a source of strength and assistance for children and adults who may be enduring unimaginable suffering, intending to bring them healing.

Like a significant portion of the United States, I am an immigrant. I grew up in Pereira Colombia, with a single mother and a dream. From ages 4 to 6 I vividly remember watching my mother get on the bus at 8 am then off the bus at 10 PM. My mother was not only my financial support, but she was also my emotional shield. Through the windows of my home, I had witnessed multiple murders, robberies, and the horrible effects of alcohol and drugs. After my mother worked 14 hours seven days a week for over six years she finally got the opportunity to move us to the United States specifically North New Jersey with the assistance of some family. My mother laid the groundwork for my future and inspiration. The initial day of school was an utterly distressing experience for me. I distinctly recall feeling like an outsider, struggling to connect with others who didn't seem to understand me, and vice versa. First grade turned into a daily struggle. Despite my tears, I understood the importance of not giving up on her aspirations for a better future. I applied my mother's 14 hours of work seven days a week determination, towards my drive to learn English and my future education. I gained the ability to interact with my classmates and staff, evolving into a supportive figure for children from different Spanish-speaking countries. Bilingualism stands as one of my greatest assets, whether in the realms of work, school, or even during everyday moments like waiting in line at McDonald's. I serve as the bridge uniting two strangers and bringing peace to those in confusion. This drive also allowed me to succeed in my academics and through my middle-high school years I took over 15 honors classes and 5 AP. I became a hands-on volunteer throughout my community by participating in Summer activities for children, library volunteer, school volunteer, and clubs. My volunteer also reached all of the 50 states through an organization called Cards For Hospitalized Kids where I made 32 and ongoing handmade cards for hospitalized children dedicating over 50 hours to my passion for providing comfort to others. My desire to pursue nursing stems from the harsh realities and absence of adequate medical and mental care I witnessed throughout Colombia. During my childhood, I faced numerous health challenges related to my weight and limited access to healthcare due to our economic struggles. A specific incident that stands out is the night I fell severely ill and had to be rushed to the hospital. However, my illness quickly became overshadowed by the shocking conditions I encountered at the clinic. There, I saw both adults and children lying on the floor in anguish, desperately seeking assistance. Some lacked proper clothing, while others suffered from distressing visible injuries.​​This pivotal moment in my life has left an undeniable mark, and Im committed to giving back. Despite being a high school senior, I am resolutely dedicated to pursuing a career as a travel nurse through a four-year university education at California State University Long Beach, with the ultimate goal of offering assistance not only within my nation but also on an international scale. CSULBS nursing program will equip me with the knowledge to one day assist those in need. Once my future is secured, I aspire to volunteer in impoverished countries, such as my homeland, Colombia. I aspire to return to that childhood spirit, but this time, I want to be a source of strength and assistance for children and adults who may be enduring unimaginable suffering, intending to bring them healing.

Like a significant portion of the United States, I am an immigrant. I grew up in Pereira Colombia, with a single mother and a dream. From ages 4 to 6 I vividly remember watching my mother get on the bus at 8 am then off the bus at 10 PM. My mother was not only my financial support, but she was also my emotional shield. Through the windows of my home, I had witnessed multiple murders, robberies, and the horrible effects of alcohol and drugs. After my mother worked 14 hours seven days a week for over six years she finally got the opportunity to move us to the United States specifically North New Jersey with the assistance of some family. My mother laid the groundwork for my future and inspiration. The initial day of school was an utterly distressing experience for me. I distinctly recall feeling like an outsider, struggling to connect with others who didn't seem to understand me, and vice versa. First grade turned into a daily struggle. Despite my tears, I understood the importance of not giving up on her aspirations for a better future. I applied my mother's 14 hours of work seven days a week determination, towards my drive to learn English and my future education. I gained the ability to interact with my classmates and staff, evolving into a supportive figure for children from different Spanish-speaking countries. Bilingualism stands as one of my greatest assets, whether in the realms of work, school, or even during everyday moments like waiting in line at McDonald's. I serve as the bridge uniting two strangers and bringing peace to those in confusion. This drive also allowed me to succeed in my academics and through my middle-high school years I took over 15 honors classes and 5 AP. I became a hands-on volunteer throughout my community by participating in Summer activities for children, library volunteer, school volunteer, and clubs. My volunteer also reached all of the 50 states through an organization called Cards For Hospitalized Kids where I made 32 and ongoing handmade cards for hospitalized children dedicating over 50 hours to my passion for providing comfort to others. My desire to pursue nursing stems from the harsh realities and absence of adequate medical and mental care I witnessed throughout Colombia. During my childhood, I faced numerous health challenges related to my weight and limited access to healthcare due to our economic struggles. A specific incident that stands out is the night I fell severely ill and had to be rushed to the hospital. However, my illness quickly became overshadowed by the shocking conditions I encountered at the clinic. There, I saw both adults and children lying on the floor in anguish, desperately seeking assistance. Some lacked proper clothing, while others suffered from distressing visible injuries.​​This pivotal moment in my life has left an undeniable mark, and Im committed to giving back. Despite being a high school senior, I am resolutely dedicated to pursuing a career as a travel nurse through a four-year university education at California State University Long Beach, with the ultimate goal of offering assistance not only within my nation but also on an international scale. CSULBS nursing program will equip me with the knowledge to one day assist those in need. Once my future is secured, I aspire to volunteer in impoverished countries, such as my homeland, Colombia. I aspire to return to that childhood spirit, but this time, I want to be a source of strength and assistance for children and adults who may be enduring unimaginable suffering, intending to bring them healing.

Like a significant portion of the United States, I am an immigrant. I grew up in Pereira Colombia, with a single mother and a dream. From ages 4 to 6 I vividly remember watching my mother get on the bus at 8 am then off the bus at 10 PM. My mother was not only my financial support, but she was also my emotional shield. Through the windows of my home, I had witnessed multiple murders, robberies, and the horrible effects of alcohol and drugs. After my mother worked 14 hours seven days a week for over six years she finally got the opportunity to move us to the United States specifically North New Jersey with the assistance of some family. My mother laid the groundwork for my future and inspiration. The initial day of school was an utterly distressing experience for me. I distinctly recall feeling like an outsider, struggling to connect with others who didn't seem to understand me, and vice versa. First grade turned into a daily struggle. Despite my tears, I understood the importance of not giving up on her aspirations for a better future. I applied my mother's 14 hours of work seven days a week determination, towards my drive to learn English and my future education. I gained the ability to interact with my classmates and staff, evolving into a supportive figure for children from different Spanish-speaking countries. Bilingualism stands as one of my greatest assets, whether in the realms of work, school, or even during everyday moments like waiting in line at McDonald's. I serve as the bridge uniting two strangers and bringing peace to those in confusion. This drive also allowed me to succeed in my academics and through my middle-high school years I took over 15 honors classes and 5 AP. I became a hands-on volunteer throughout my community by participating in Summer activities for children, library volunteer, school volunteer, and clubs. My volunteer also reached all of the 50 states through an organization called Cards For Hospitalized Kids where I made 32 and ongoing handmade cards for hospitalized children dedicating over 50 hours to my passion for providing comfort to others. My desire to pursue nursing stems from the harsh realities and absence of adequate medical and mental care I witnessed throughout Colombia. During my childhood, I faced numerous health challenges related to my weight and limited access to healthcare due to our economic struggles. A specific incident that stands out is the night I fell severely ill and had to be rushed to the hospital. However, my illness quickly became overshadowed by the shocking conditions I encountered at the clinic. There, I saw both adults and children lying on the floor in anguish, desperately seeking assistance. Some lacked proper clothing, while others suffered from distressing visible injuries.​​This pivotal moment in my life has left an undeniable mark, and Im committed to giving back. Despite being a high school senior, I am resolutely dedicated to pursuing a career as a travel nurse through a four-year university education at California State University Long Beach, with the ultimate goal of offering assistance not only within my nation but also on an international scale. CSULBS nursing program will equip me with the knowledge to one day assist those in need. Once my future is secured, I aspire to volunteer in impoverished countries, such as my homeland, Colombia. I aspire to return to that childhood spirit, but this time, I want to be a source of strength and assistance for children and adults who may be enduring unimaginable suffering, intending to bring them healing.

Like a significant portion of the United States, I am an immigrant. I grew up in Pereira Colombia, with a single mother and a dream. From ages 4 to 6 I vividly remember watching my mother get on the bus at 8 am then off the bus at 10 PM. My mother was not only my financial support, but she was also my emotional shield. Through the windows of my home, I had witnessed multiple murders, robberies, and the horrible effects of alcohol and drugs. After my mother worked 14 hours seven days a week for over six years she finally got the opportunity to move us to the United States specifically North New Jersey with the assistance of some family. My mother laid the groundwork for my future and inspiration. I currently rely on my single immigrant mother, who lacks a college education and works a low-paying job in New Jersey a very expensive state. Although we initially had assistance from my then-stepfather when we moved to the US, their separation in 2022 has led to significant financial difficulties for us. As first-generation immigrants, we lack family support academically and emotionally, as most of our relatives are in Colombia. I also worked 25-30 hours weekly to support myself academically, personally, and emotionally, with most of my income going toward household and educational expenses but had to quit as it was challenging to find a stable life and focus on school all at once. Despite financial challenges, my dream since childhood has been to live in California, but being an out-of-state student means facing higher tuition and my financial aid estimate came out to 40k a year, meaning I would have to take out a lot of student loans that would affect me greatly in the future. In addition travel, moving costs, and the need to buy supplies for school will eventually add up. However, I am determined to pursue my dreams for a better future, and one day move my mother out to California with me. Money should never stop your dreams or ambitions and although I am not financially stable I will never lose the opportunity to reach my dreams of being a Nurse in California. California State University has one of the best nursing programs being ranked #2 in the nation which will ensure I can receive the right educational tools to succeed in my career. Meanwhile, my long-term goals include becoming a Registered Travel nurse and specifically focusing on the NICU or Pediatrics unit, and once I feel comfortable with my abilities I will volunteer globally to poverty-stricken countries who face poor medical attention and help them medically with absolutely no cost. In addition, I would love to develop my personal volunteering foundation of nurses to travel globally, while also providing funding for hospitals in impoverished countries/ states.

On New Year 2022, I began to feel a sharp pain on the left side of my stomach, the pain was so immense I became unconscious and when I woke up I was in the hospital. Suddenly a hand reached out to me and I watched as a nurse comforted me. Her face was covered by a mask and the only thing visible was the beauty mark on top of her eyebrow. “I have one too,” I said as I pointed at her face. Although she seemed confused, this led to a never-ending conversation. She told me how she was a travel nurse and had worked and volunteered all over the world, assisting those in need. That night struck a pivotal moment in my life. I began to reflect on the the inadequate medical care I witnessed and experienced living in Pereira, Colombia. The city was marked by violence and drug abuse, and our living conditions were challenging, but the medical treatment I received couldn't have been far worse. I vividly remember the extremely long waiting times, poorly funded hospitals with deficient medical equipment, and the absence of emotional support for patients. But I also Acknowledged that America had a big problem with the amount of bilingual medical professionals available to aid families who did not speak english. This experience, along with the lack of bilingual medical professionals in the US, has fueled my determination to become a nurse. I have experienced firsthand the frustration of not being able to understand my own or my parents' medical conditions due to language barriers, and therefore I hope to one day make sure no one goes through those troubles again. Within my nursing career, I dream of becoming a Registered Travel nurse, specifically focusing on the NICU or Pediatrics unit. Once I feel comfortable with my abilities I am determined to volunteer globally to poverty-stricken countries that face poor medical attention and help them medically with absolutely no cost. In addition, I want to develop my volunteering foundation for nurses to travel globally, while also providing funding for hospitals in impoverished countries/ states. I’ve been actively pursuing my dreams by working 25-30 hours a week at a retail store called Garage since the beginning of July 2023 and budgeting my money by creating a savings account for college. In addition, I've taken 7 AP classes through the course of my high school year earning me AP credit for college, meanwhile maintaining a 4.2 GPA. I've displayed my entrepreneurial spirit and active leadership In my community, through various initiatives and volunteer work. For instance, I organized a town fair at my local library, catering to all age groups with activities like carnival games, a buffet, face painting, and arts and crafts. This event provided a safe and enjoyable space for everyone. I also volunteered at a phlebotomy clinic, assisting Latino patients who didn't speak English. My role involved helping them understand their procedures and communicating their questions to the phlebotomist. This experience was crucial in combining language barriers and ensuring patients felt comfortable and informed, and also gave me an insight into medical care which will benefit me as a future nurse. Lastly, I represented my premedical class at Lodi High School for the Milken Educator Awards, showcasing our DNA analysis equipment and medical simulation mannequins. My academics have given me the ability to attend my dream school, and my job has given me a slight shoulder to lean on as I will be able to pay for at least my moving flights, and any school supplies I may need for fall 2024.

My desire and ultimate dream is to pursue nursing at California State University Long Beach. Majoring in nursing is deeply rooted in the inadequate medical care I witnessed and experienced living in Pereira, Colombia. The city was marked by violence and drug abuse, and our living conditions were challenging, but the medical treatment I received couldn't have been far worse. I vividly remember the extremely long waiting times, poorly funded hospitals with deficient medical equipment, and the absence of emotional support for patients. This experience, along with the lack of bilingual medical professionals in the US, has fueled my determination to become a nurse. I have experienced firsthand the frustration of not being able to understand my own or my parents' medical conditions due to language barriers, and therefore I hope to one day make sure no one goes through those troubles again. Within my nursing career, I dream of becoming a Registered Travel nurse, specifically focusing on the NICU or Pediatrics unit. Once I feel comfortable with my abilities I am determined to volunteer globally to poverty-stricken countries that face poor medical attention and help them medically with absolutely no cost. In addition, I want to develop my volunteering foundation for nurses to travel globally, while also providing funding for hospitals in impoverished countries/ states.I’ve been actively pursuing my dreams by working 25-30 hours a week at a retail store called Garage since the beginning of July 2023 and budgeting my money by creating a savings account for college. In addition, I've taken 7 AP classes through the course of my high school year earning me AP credit for college, meanwhile maintaining a 4.2 GPA, and I will also be starting community college classes online to reduce the cost of prerequisites for college. I've displayed my entrepreneurial spirit and active leadership In my community, through various initiatives and volunteer work. For instance, I organized a town fair at my local library, catering to all age groups with activities like carnival games, a buffet, face painting, and arts and crafts. This event provided a safe and enjoyable space for everyone. I also volunteered at a phlebotomy clinic, assisting Latino patients who didn't speak English. My role involved helping them understand their procedures and communicating their questions to the phlebotomist. This experience was crucial in combining language barriers and ensuring patients felt comfortable and informed, and also gave me an insight into medical care which will benefit me as a future nurse. Lastly, I represented my premedical class at Lodi High School for the Milken Educator Awards, showcasing our DNA analysis equipment and medical simulation mannequins. This effort helped secure funding for our school's science department. My academics have given me the ability to attend my dream school, and my job has given me a slight shoulder to lean on as I will be able to pay for at least my moving flights, and any school supplies I may need for fall 2024. My desire to relieve financial stress off my mother's shoulders, and become a future nurse has led to all my hard work and effort throughout the years.

Like a significant portion of the United States, I am an immigrant. I grew up in Pereira Colombia, with a single mother and a dream. From ages 4 to 6 I vividly remember watching my mother get on the bus at 8 am then off the bus at 10 PM. My mother was not only my financial support, but she was also my emotional shield. Through the windows of my home, I had witnessed multiple murders, robberies, and the horrible effects of alcohol and drugs. After my mother worked 14 hours seven days a week for over six years she finally got the opportunity to move us to the United States specifically North New Jersey with the assistance of some family. My mother laid the groundwork for my future and inspiration.I applied my mother's 14 hours of work seven days a week determination, towards my drive to learn English and my future education. I gained the ability to interact with my classmates and staff, evolving into a supportive figure for children from different Spanish-speaking countries. Bilingualism stands as one of my greatest assets, whether in the realms of work, school, or even during everyday moments like waiting in line at McDonald's. I serve as the bridge uniting two strangers and bringing peace to those in confusion. This drive also allowed me to succeed in my academics and through my middle-high school years I took over 15 honors classes and 5 AP. I became a hands-on volunteer throughout my community by participating in Summer activities for children, library volunteer, school volunteer, and clubs. My volunteer also reached all of the 50 states through an organization called Cards For Hospitalized Kids where I made 32 and ongoing handmade cards for hospitalized children dedicating over 50 hours to my passion for providing comfort to others. Majoring in nursing is deeply rooted in the inadequate medical care I witnessed and experienced living in Pereira, Colombia. The city was marked by violence and drug abuse, and our living conditions were challenging, but the medical treatment I received couldn't have been far worse. I vividly remember the extremely long waiting times, poorly funded hospitals with deficient medical equipment, and the absence of emotional support for patients. This experience, along with the lack of bilingual medical professionals in the US, has fueled my determination to become a nurse. I have experienced firsthand the frustration of not being able to understand my own or my parents' medical conditions due to language barriers, and therefore I hope to one day make sure no one goes through those troubles again. Within my nursing career, I dream of becoming a Registered Travel nurse, specifically focusing on the NICU or Pediatrics unit. Once I feel comfortable with my abilities I am determined to volunteer globally to poverty-stricken countries that face poor medical attention and help them medically with absolutely no cost. In addition, I want to develop my volunteering foundation for nurses to travel globally, while also providing funding for hospitals in impoverished countries/ states.

Like a significant portion of the United States, I am an immigrant. I grew up in Pereira Colombia, with a single mother and a dream. From ages 4 to 6 I vividly remember watching my mother get on the bus at 8 am then off the bus at 10 PM. My mother was not only my financial support, but she was also my emotional shield. Through the windows of my home, I had witnessed multiple murders, robberies, and the horrible effects of alcohol and drugs. After my mother worked 14 hours seven days a week for over six years she finally got the opportunity to move us to the United States specifically North New Jersey with the assistance of some family. My mother laid the groundwork for my future and inspiration.I applied my mother's 14 hours of work seven days a week determination, towards my drive to learn English and my future education. I gained the ability to interact with my classmates and staff, evolving into a supportive figure for children from different Spanish-speaking countries. Bilingualism stands as one of my greatest assets, whether in the realms of work, school, or even during everyday moments like waiting in line at McDonald's. I serve as the bridge uniting two strangers and bringing peace to those in confusion. This drive also allowed me to succeed in my academics and through my middle-high school years I took over 15 honors classes and 5 AP. I became a hands-on volunteer throughout my community by participating in Summer activities for children, library volunteer, school volunteer, and clubs. My volunteer also reached all of the 50 states through an organization called Cards For Hospitalized Kids where I made 32 and ongoing handmade cards for hospitalized children dedicating over 50 hours to my passion for providing comfort to others. Majoring in nursing is deeply rooted in the inadequate medical care I witnessed and experienced living in Pereira, Colombia. The city was marked by violence and drug abuse, and our living conditions were challenging, but the medical treatment I received couldn't have been far worse. I vividly remember the extremely long waiting times, poorly funded hospitals with deficient medical equipment, and the absence of emotional support for patients. This experience, along with the lack of bilingual medical professionals in the US, has fueled my determination to become a nurse. I have experienced firsthand the frustration of not being able to understand my own or my parents' medical conditions due to language barriers, and therefore I hope to one day make sure no one goes through those troubles again. Within my nursing career, I dream of becoming a Registered Travel nurse, specifically focusing on the NICU or Pediatrics unit. Once I feel comfortable with my abilities I am determined to volunteer globally to poverty-stricken countries that face poor medical attention and help them medically with absolutely no cost. In addition, I want to develop my volunteering foundation for nurses to travel globally, while also providing funding for hospitals in impoverished countries/ states.

Like a significant portion of the United States, Im an immigrant. I grew up in Pereira Colombia, with a single mother and a dream. From ages 4 to 6 I vividly remember watching my mother get on the bus at 8 am then off the bus at 10 PM. My mother was not only my financial support, but she was also my emotional shield. Through the windows of my home, I had witnessed multiple murders, robberies, and the horrible effects of alcohol and drugs. After my mother worked 14 hours seven days a week for over six years she finally got the opportunity to move us to the United States specifically North New Jersey with the assistance of some family. My mother laid the groundwork for my future and inspiration.I applied my mother's 14 hours of work seven days a week determination, towards my drive to learn English and my future education. I gained the ability to interact with my classmates and staff, evolving into a supportive figure for children from different Spanish-speaking countries. Bilingualism stands as one of my greatest assets, whether in the realms of work, school, or even during everyday moments like waiting in line at McDonald's. I serve as the bridge uniting two strangers and bringing peace to those in confusion. This drive also allowed me to succeed in my academics and through my middle-high school years I took over 15 honors classes and 5 AP. I became a hands-on volunteer throughout my community by participating in Summer activities for children, library volunteer, school volunteer, and clubs. My volunteer also reached all of the 50 states through an organization called Cards For Hospitalized Kids where I made 32 and ongoing handmade cards for hospitalized children dedicating over 50 hours to my passion for providing comfort to others. Majoring in nursing is deeply rooted in the inadequate medical care I witnessed and experienced living in Colombia. The city was marked by violence and drug abuse, and our living conditions were challenging, but the medical treatment I received couldn't have been far worse. I vividly remember the extremely long waiting times, poorly funded hospitals with poor medical equipment, and the absence of emotional support for patients. This experience, along with the lack of bilingual medical professionals in the US, has fueled my determination to become a nurse. I have experienced firsthand the frustration of not being able to understand my own or my parents medical conditions due to language barriers, and therefore I hope to one day make sure no one goes through those troubles again. Within my nursing career, I dream of becoming a Registered Travel nurse, specifically focusing in the Pediatrics unit. Once I feel comfortable with my abilities I am determined to volunteer globally to poverty-stricken countries that face poor medical attention and help them medically with absolutely no cost. In addition, I want to develop my volunteering foundation for nurses to travel globally, while also providing funding for hospitals in impoverished countries/ states

Like a significant portion of the United States, I am an immigrant. I grew up in Pereira Colombia, with a single mother and a dream. From ages 4 to 6 I vividly remember watching my mother get on the bus at 8 am then off the bus at 10 PM. My mother was not only my financial support, but she was also my emotional shield. Through the windows of my home, I had witnessed multiple murders, robberies, and the horrible effects of alcohol and drugs. After my mother worked 14 hours seven days a week for over six years she finally got the opportunity to move us to the United States specifically North New Jersey with the assistance of some family. My mother laid the groundwork for my future and inspiration.I applied my mother's 14 hours of work seven days a week determination, towards my drive to learn English and my future education. I gained the ability to interact with my classmates and staff, evolving into a supportive figure for children from different Spanish-speaking countries. Bilingualism stands as one of my greatest assets, whether in the realms of work, school, or even during everyday moments like waiting in line at McDonald's. I serve as the bridge uniting two strangers and bringing peace to those in confusion. This drive also allowed me to succeed in my academics and through my middle-high school years I took over 15 honors classes and 5 AP. I became a hands-on volunteer throughout my community by participating in Summer activities for children, library volunteer, school volunteer, and clubs. My volunteer also reached all of the 50 states through an organization called Cards For Hospitalized Kids where I made 32 and ongoing handmade cards for hospitalized children dedicating over 50 hours to my passion for providing comfort to others. Majoring in nursing is deeply rooted in the inadequate medical care I witnessed and experienced living in Pereira, Colombia. The city was marked by violence and drug abuse, and our living conditions were challenging, but the medical treatment I received couldn't have been far worse. I vividly remember the extremely long waiting times, poorly funded hospitals with deficient medical equipment, and the absence of emotional support for patients. This experience, along with the lack of bilingual medical professionals in the US, has fueled my determination to become a nurse. I have experienced firsthand the frustration of not being able to understand my own or my parents' medical conditions due to language barriers, and therefore I hope to one day make sure no one goes through those troubles again. Within my nursing career, I dream of becoming a Registered Travel nurse, specifically focusing on the NICU or Pediatrics unit. Once I feel comfortable with my abilities I am determined to volunteer globally to poverty-stricken countries that face poor medical attention and help them medically with absolutely no cost. In addition, I want to develop my volunteering foundation for nurses to travel globally, while also providing funding for hospitals in impoverished countries/ states

My desire and ultimate dream is to pursue nursing at California State University Long Beach. Majoring in nursing is deeply rooted in the inadequate medical care I witnessed and experienced living in Pereira, Colombia. The city was marked by violence and drug abuse, and our living conditions were challenging, but the medical treatment I received couldn't have been far worse. I vividly remember the extremely long waiting times, poorly funded hospitals with deficient medical equipment, and the absence of emotional support for patients. This experience, along with the lack of bilingual medical professionals in the US, has fueled my determination to become a nurse. I have experienced firsthand the frustration of not being able to understand my own or my parents' medical conditions due to language barriers, and therefore I hope to one day make sure no one goes through those troubles again. Within my nursing career, I dream of becoming a Registered Travel nurse, specifically focusing on the NICU or Pediatrics unit. Once I feel comfortable with my abilities I am determined to volunteer globally to poverty-stricken countries that face poor medical attention and help them medically with absolutely no cost. In addition, I want to develop my volunteering foundation for nurses to travel globally, while also providing funding for hospitals in impoverished countries/ states.I’ve been actively pursuing my dreams by working 25-30 hours a week at a retail store called Garage since the beginning of July 2023 and budgeting my money by creating a savings account for college. In addition, I've taken 7 AP classes through the course of my high school year earning me AP credit for college, meanwhile maintaining a 4.2 GPA, and I will also be starting community college classes online to reduce the cost of prerequisites for college. I've displayed my entrepreneurial spirit and active leadership In my community, through various initiatives and volunteer work. For instance, I organized a town fair at my local library, catering to all age groups with activities like carnival games, a buffet, face painting, and arts and crafts. This event provided a safe and enjoyable space for everyone. I also volunteered at a phlebotomy clinic, assisting Latino patients who didn't speak English. My role involved helping them understand their procedures and communicating their questions to the phlebotomist. This experience was crucial in combining language barriers and ensuring patients felt comfortable and informed, and also gave me an insight into medical care which will benefit me as a future nurse. Lastly, I represented my premedical class at Lodi High School for the Milken Educator Awards, showcasing our DNA analysis equipment and medical simulation mannequins. This effort helped secure funding for our school's science department. My academics have given me the ability to attend my dream school, and my job has given me a slight shoulder to lean on as I will be able to pay for at least my moving flights, and any school supplies I may need for fall 2024. My desire to relieve financial stress off my mother's shoulders, and become a future nurse has led to all my hard work and effort throughout the years.

My desire and ultimate dream is to pursue nursing at California State University Long Beach. Majoring in nursing is deeply rooted in the inadequate medical care I witnessed and experienced living in Pereira, Colombia. The city was marked by violence and drug abuse, and our living conditions were challenging, but the medical treatment I received couldn't have been far worse. I vividly remember the extremely long waiting times, poorly funded hospitals with deficient medical equipment, and the absence of emotional support for patients. This experience, along with the lack of bilingual medical professionals in the US, has fueled my determination to become a nurse. I have experienced firsthand the frustration of not being able to understand my own or my parents' medical conditions due to language barriers, and therefore I hope to one day make sure no one goes through those troubles again. Within my nursing career, I dream of becoming a Registered Travel nurse, specifically focusing on the NICU or Pediatrics unit. Once I feel comfortable with my abilities I am determined to volunteer globally to poverty-stricken countries that face poor medical attention and help them medically with absolutely no cost. In addition, I want to develop my volunteering foundation for nurses to travel globally, while also providing funding for hospitals in impoverished countries/ states.I’ve been actively pursuing my dreams by working 25-30 hours a week at a retail store called Garage since the beginning of July 2023 and budgeting my money by creating a savings account for college. In addition, I've taken 7 AP classes through the course of my high school year earning me AP credit for college, meanwhile maintaining a 4.2 GPA, and I will also be starting community college classes online to reduce the cost of prerequisites for college. I've displayed my entrepreneurial spirit and active leadership In my community, through various initiatives and volunteer work. For instance, I organized a town fair at my local library, catering to all age groups with activities like carnival games, a buffet, face painting, and arts and crafts. This event provided a safe and enjoyable space for everyone. I also volunteered at a phlebotomy clinic, assisting Latino patients who didn't speak English. My role involved helping them understand their procedures and communicating their questions to the phlebotomist. This experience was crucial in combining language barriers and ensuring patients felt comfortable and informed, and also gave me an insight into medical care which will benefit me as a future nurse. Lastly, I represented my premedical class at Lodi High School for the Milken Educator Awards, showcasing our DNA analysis equipment and medical simulation mannequins. This effort helped secure funding for our school's science department. My academics have given me the ability to attend my dream school, and my job has given me a slight shoulder to lean on as I will be able to pay for at least my moving flights, and any school supplies I may need for fall 2024. My desire to relieve financial stress off my mother's shoulders, and become a future nurse has led to all my hard work and effort throughout the years.

My desire and ultimate dream is to pursue nursing at California State University Long Beach. Majoring in nursing is deeply rooted in the inadequate medical care I witnessed and experienced living in Pereira, Colombia. The city was marked by violence and drug abuse, and our living conditions were challenging, but the medical treatment I received couldn't have been far worse. I vividly remember the extremely long waiting times, poorly funded hospitals with deficient medical equipment, and the absence of emotional support for patients. This experience, along with the lack of bilingual medical professionals in the US, has fueled my determination to become a nurse. I have experienced firsthand the frustration of not being able to understand my own or my parents' medical conditions due to language barriers, and therefore I hope to one day make sure no one goes through those troubles again. Within my nursing career, I dream of becoming a Registered Travel nurse, specifically focusing on the NICU or Pediatrics unit. Once I feel comfortable with my abilities I am determined to volunteer globally to poverty-stricken countries that face poor medical attention and help them medically with absolutely no cost. In addition, I want to develop my volunteering foundation for nurses to travel globally, while also providing funding for hospitals in impoverished countries/ states. I’ve been actively pursuing my dreams by working 25-30 hours a week at a retail store called Garage since the beginning of July 2023 and budgeting my money by creating a savings account for college. In addition, I've taken 7 AP classes through the course of my high school year earning me AP credit for college, meanwhile maintaining a 4.2 GPA, and I will also be starting community college classes online to reduce the cost of prerequisites for college. I've displayed my entrepreneurial spirit and active leadership In my community, through various initiatives and volunteer work. For instance, I organized a town fair at my local library, catering to all age groups with activities like carnival games, a buffet, face painting, and arts and crafts. This event provided a safe and enjoyable space for everyone. I also volunteered at a phlebotomy clinic, assisting Latino patients who didn't speak English. My role involved helping them understand their procedures and communicating their questions to the phlebotomist. This experience was crucial in combining language barriers and ensuring patients felt comfortable and informed, and also gave me an insight into medical care which will benefit me as a future nurse. Lastly, I represented my premedical class at Lodi High School for the Milken Educator Awards, showcasing our DNA analysis equipment and medical simulation mannequins. This effort helped secure funding for our school's science department. My academics have given me the ability to attend my dream school, and my job has given me a slight shoulder to lean on as I will be able to pay for at least my moving flights, and any school supplies I may need for fall 2024. My desire to relieve financial stress off my mother's shoulders, and become a future nurse has led to all my hard work and effort throughout the years.

Like a significant portion of the United States, I am an immigrant. I grew up in Pereira Colombia, with a single mother and a dream. From ages 4 to 6 I vividly remember watching my mother get on the bus at 8 am then off the bus at 10 PM. My mother was not only my financial support, but she was also my emotional shield. Through the windows of my home, I had witnessed multiple murders, robberies, and the horrible effects of alcohol and drugs. After my mother worked 14 hours seven days a week for over six years she finally got the opportunity to move us to the United States specifically North New Jersey with the assistance of some family. My mother laid the groundwork for my future and inspiration. The initial day of school was an utterly distressing experience for me. I distinctly recall feeling like an outsider, struggling to connect with others who didn't seem to understand me, and vice versa. First grade turned into a daily struggle. Despite my tears, I understood the importance of not giving up on her aspirations for a better future. I applied my mother's 14 hours of work seven days a week determination, towards my drive to learn English and my future education. I gained the ability to interact with my classmates and staff, evolving into a supportive figure for children from different Spanish-speaking countries. Bilingualism stands as one of my greatest assets, whether in the realms of work, school, or even during everyday moments like waiting in line at McDonald's. I serve as the bridge uniting two strangers and bringing peace to those in confusion. This drive also allowed me to succeed in my academics and through my middle-high school years I took over 15 honors classes and 5 AP. I became a hands-on volunteer throughout my community by participating in Summer activities for children, library volunteer, school volunteer, and clubs. My volunteer also reached all of the 50 states through an organization called Cards For Hospitalized Kids where I made 32 and ongoing handmade cards for hospitalized children dedicating over 50 hours to my passion for providing comfort to others. My desire to pursue nursing stems from the harsh realities and absence of adequate medical and mental care I witnessed throughout Colombia. During my childhood, I faced numerous health challenges caused by limited access to healthcare due to our economic struggles. A specific incident that stands out is the night I fell severely ill and had to be rushed to the hospital. However, my illness quickly became overshadowed by the shocking conditions I encountered at the clinic. There, I saw both adults and children lying on the floor in anguish, desperately seeking assistance. Some lacked proper clothing, while others suffered from distressing visible injuries.​​This pivotal moment in my life has left a mark, and I've made a solemn commitment to give back. Despite being a high school senior, I am dedicated to pursuing a career as a travel nurse through a four-year university education at California State University Long Beach, with the ultimate goal of offering assistance not only within my nation but also on an international scale. CSULBS nursing program will equip me with the knowledge to one day assist those in need. Once my future is secured, I aspire to volunteer in impoverished countries, such as my homeland, Colombia. I aspire to return to that childhood spirit, but this time, I want to be a source of strength and assistance for children and adults who may be enduring unimaginable suffering, intending to bring them healing.

My desire and ultimate dream is to pursue nursing at California State University Long Beach. Majoring in nursing is deeply rooted in the inadequate medical care I witnessed and experienced living in Pereira, Colombia. The city was marked by violence and drug abuse, and our living conditions were challenging, but the medical treatment I received couldn't have been far worse. I vividly remember the extremely long waiting times, poorly funded hospitals with deficient medical equipment, and the absence of emotional support for patients. This experience, along with the lack of bilingual medical professionals in the US, has fueled my determination to become a nurse. I have experienced firsthand the frustration of not being able to understand my own or my parents' medical conditions due to language barriers, and therefore I hope to one day make sure no one goes through those troubles again. Within my nursing career, I dream of becoming a Registered Travel nurse, specifically focusing on the NICU or Pediatrics unit. Once I feel comfortable with my abilities I am determined to volunteer globally to poverty-stricken countries that face poor medical attention and help them medically with absolutely no cost. In addition, I want to develop my volunteering foundation for nurses to travel globally, while also providing funding for hospitals in impoverished countries/ states. On the other hand, the desire to attend California State University Long Beach nursing program and move out of state to sunny California comes from my childhood through watching the Disney movie Princess Diaries. I remember the ambiance of the palm trees, the sunlight, and the architecture of Los Angeles, and from then on that image has never left my mind. I hope to foster new social connections with students from diverse backgrounds and similar goals while immersing myself in the vibrant Los Angeles atmosphere. Although New Jersey has been my home state for the majority of my life I believe that exploring is one of the most enriching experiences a human can go through. For me California represents more than just a location change, but instead a state of endless possibilities where my dreams can flourish. Becoming fully independent will equip me with life lessons that I can take on for the rest of my life but most importantly I want my mother to be free from financial stress. As a first-generation college and high school student, I want to give back to my mother for all the emotional and financial hardships she has faced in her life. This scholarship will be an aid to me and my mother as out-of-state tuition is extremely expensive. I believe that money should never be a factor in limiting your goals, therefore, I am fighting for a better future for me, my mother, and all my future patients.

Like a significant portion of the United States, I am an immigrant. I grew up in Pereira Colombia, with a single mother and a dream. From ages 4 to 6 I vividly remember watching my mother get on the bus at 8 am then off the bus at 10 PM. My mother was not only my financial support, but she was also my emotional shield. Through the windows of my home, I had witnessed multiple murders, robberies, and the horrible effects of alcohol and drugs. After my mother worked 14 hours seven days a week for over six years she finally got the opportunity to move us to the United States specifically North New Jersey with the assistance of some family. My mother laid the groundwork for my future and inspiration. The initial day of school was an utterly distressing experience for me. I distinctly recall feeling like an outsider, struggling to connect with others who didn't seem to understand me, and vice versa. First grade turned into a daily struggle. Despite my tears, I understood the importance of not giving up on her aspirations for a better future. I applied my mother's 14 hours of work seven days a week determination, towards my drive to learn English and my future education. I gained the ability to interact with my classmates and staff, evolving into a supportive figure for spanish speaking children. Bilingualism is one of my greatest assets, whether in the realms of work, school, or even during everyday moments like waiting in line at McDonald's. I serve as the bridge uniting two strangers and bringing peace to those in confusion. This drive also allowed me to succeed in my academics and through my middle-high school years I took over 15 honors classes and 5 AP. I became a hands-on volunteer throughout my community by participating in Summer activities for children, library volunteer, school volunteer, and clubs. My volunteer also reached all of the 50 states through an organization called Cards For Hospitalized Kids where I made 32 and ongoing handmade cards for hospitalized children dedicating over 50 hours to my passion for providing comfort. My desire to pursue nursing stems from the harsh realities and absence of adequate medical and mental care I witnessed throughout Colombia. During my childhood, I faced numerous health challenges related to my weight and limited access to healthcare due to our economic struggles. A specific incident that stands out is the night I fell severely ill and had to be rushed to the hospital. However, my illness quickly became overshadowed by the shocking conditions I encountered at the clinic. There, I saw both adults and children lying on the floor in anguish, desperately seeking assistance. Some lacked proper clothing, while others suffered from distressing visible injuries.​​This pivotal moment in my life has left an indelible mark, and I've made a solemn commitment to give back. Despite being a high school senior, I am resolutely dedicated to pursuing a career as a travel nurse through a four-year university education at California State University Long Beach, with the ultimate goal of offering assistance not only within my nation but also on an international scale. CSULBS nursing program will equip me with the knowledge to one day assist those in need. Once my future is secured, I aspire to volunteer in impoverished countries, such as my homeland, Colombia. I aspire to return to that childhood spirit, but this time, I want to be a source of strength and assistance for children and adults who may be enduring suffering, intending to bring them healing and relief.

As I stand on the cusp of my senior year in high school, my heart is filled with profound admiration and gratitude for my mother. She left behind a comfortable job at a bank to scrub houses in a foreign country, suffering insults to support my education and future aspirations of becoming a registered nurse and moving to California. Her journey of immigration from Colombia to the United States has been an inspiring tale of unwavering love and sacrifice. The reality of starting over in a distant country became clear as soon as we set foot on American soil. My mother decided to start cleaning and washing houses because she needed to find steady work to provide for us. With the limits of no American education and the language barrier she knew she had to provide. My mother worked countless hours a day and not only was able to gift me with objects and the physical but also granted me her time, energy, and wisdom. No smile from her could hide the eyebags and sore hands and knees from scrubbing but she made it possible to believe she was alright. She encountered criticism and denigration from certain people who failed to appreciate the resilience and determination it took to follow such a journey, and the work was physically strenuous. My mother, however, never allowed these offensive words to stop her. My enthusiasm for nursing deepened as I got older. I was attracted to the job because of its compassion and the chance to truly change people's lives, it eventually became a reflection of how my mother changed my life and now it was time for me to change hers and so many others. My mother was my strongest supporter, constantly urging me to follow my goals while providing unwavering encouragement and compassion. Although she has her limits as she struggles with the English language she dedicates time to learn on her end to provide as much support as possible. She developed into my rock of support, helping me navigate the difficulties of school and providing unflinching affection. She gave up more than just her livelihood to support me; she also gave up her time, her goals, and her comfort to give me the best opportunity at success in life. My dreams to become a registered nurse have been influenced by her journey from Colombia to the United States and her desire to provide me with a better future.

"No se" translates to I don't know. This was a phrase I frequently heard from my immigrant mother whenever I would ask her for assistance on a homework assignment or filling out forms at doctors' offices and even school paperwork. This phrase eventually became the answer to what I would hear when I asked my mother how she would assist me with college. With the help of this scholarship, I will be able to answer the question I once asked my mother and take off some form of relief not only on her back but mine. I am also an immigrant as I was born in Colombia and moved to America at the age of 6, and had to eventually get left back to learn the English language basically setting me back from achieving my future and goals. I am devoted to becoming a registered nurse, as my interest in the field of healthcare strongly touches my heart. The idea of providing comfort and security for those in need of assistance and help fulfills me. In addition, I plan on studying out of state in California and although it may seem like a stretch due to my lack of financial support and knowledge, I believe that If I was able to adapt to a new country I will definitely be able to adapt to a new state and I will never allow any issues to set me back from my dreams as I know I can always prosper. I am currently a senior at Lodi Highschool In New Jersey and I take part in various clubs such as the student council, medical club, and surf club. I am the founder of the culture club for the 2023-2024 year and we are planning various events to bring back and introduce to Lodi high school in order to raise money for amenities and features to make my school a better place. In addition, I will be spreading light and knowledge on various forms of cultures and creating activities that will be informative, educational, and entertaining. Due to my interest in the healthcare field, I am also volunteering at Hackensack Hospital, where I work both with patients assisting them with small things such as bringing food or keeping company, and running around doing small tasks such as answering phone calls and helping people fill out forms. At times I can also shadow professionals and it gives me a larger insight into the medical field. The scholarship will become a boost to my future and career, and not only will it be a personal help, but it will eventually become a domino effect as I will then be able to assist others in the future by becoming a nurse.

My Barbie Dream House or Casa is located in Cartagena, Colombia, and obtains a celebration of the lively and diverse Colombian culture. This essay will indulge in the features and distinct Colombian influences that make this Dream House a true reflection of the country's rich heritage. The Barbie Dream House in Colombia draws influence from the architectural marvels of the nation starting with architecture and design. Its facade features walls painted in hues of yellow, blue, and pink, which are frequently seen in Cartagena's streets. The entrance is embellished with deftly carved wooden doors that are reminiscent of the colonial architecture prevalent in towns like Bogota and Medellin. Colombian accents and Barbie's own style are seamlessly merged inside the Dream House. A "mochila," or handwoven rug, in the living area lends the space a hint of conventional artistry. The walls are elegantly decorated with vibrant wall tapestries that attractively display Colombia's rich cultural heritage and are inspired by the indigenous Wayuu tribe. Cuisine and Kitchen: The kitchen at The Dream House pays respect to Colombia's delectable cuisine. Bright hand-painted tiles that adorn the counters are evocative of the well-known ceramic artwork produced in the town of Ráquira. Traditional Colombian foods like arepas and bandeja paisa are presented on small plates to highlight the culinary variety of the nation. Barbie and her friends are invited to a coffee station that features a Colombian coffee maker and a variety of high-quality Colombian beans, symbolizing Colombia's famed coffee culture. Bedrooms and Fashion: The Dream House's bedrooms include fabrics and fashion from Colombia. A lavish blanket with elaborate embroidery, modeled after the Kuna indigenous people's traditional "mola" art, lends a special touch to the master bedroom. A selection of Colombian jewelry pieces crafted by hand are displayed on a vanity table, showcasing the nation's famed emerald and gold artistry. The walk-in closet is filled with bright Colombian clothing, including dresses from the Caribbean coast that are full of color and shirts from the Andes that have elaborate embroidery. Barbie may proudly display her Colombian-inspired attire while honoring the nation's variety of fashion. Backyard: The Dream House's outdoor space showcases Colombia's pristine, verdant landscape. A lovely backdrop is created with a garden full of vivid tropical foliage, such as orchids and heliconias. Barbie is encouraged to relax and take in the peace by the hammock, a mainstay of Colombian leisure time, which is softly swaying beneath a palm tree. On the patio, a barbecue grill in the Colombian manner is prominently displayed, ready for Barbie to host an authentic Colombian "asado" and wow her guests with delectable grilled meats and regional side dishes. The pool area is decorated with brilliant mosaic tiles that evoke the traditional artwork found in the village of Guatapé, resulting in a lively and breathtaking environment.

For me, achievements are characterized by the success and experiences they provide you. One of my biggest achievements was moving to a third-world country at the age of 6 with my family and learning and adapting to not only a new lifestyle but a new language. Coming from Pereira Colombia, a country where resources lack and every move must be calculated to a land of the privileged I didn't know what to expect. This experience taught me various characteristics about myself such as helping me gain a perspective on my identity and morals. I also began to pay attention to and value the aspects of my Colombian culture and upbringing more than before and began to gain a newfound fondness for certain characteristics of American culture. Additionally, America's vast number of immigrants from different countries taught me to appreciate and learn about people from diverse backgrounds, which helped me become more open-minded and accepting of different points of view, and the ways people go about their lives. Finally, moving to the United States as a young girl also helped me develop a sense of independence and self-reliance. Coming to the United States I needed to learn how to make my own friendships and connections with people which can be difficult but also gave me a sense of empowerment as I realized I was capable to navigate through the real world as a young child. Overall, moving to the United States became a transformative experience that taught me heavily about personal characteristics that have helped me grow as a person in addition to giving me the security and knowledge of learning to adapt to new environments and situations alone. In the future, I hope to eventually achieve my career in nursing as I have always been extremely passionate about helping others. This profession will allow me to make a positive impact on people's lives every day and as an immigrant from Colombia, my experiences growing up in a different culture have given me a unique perspective on life and the importance of healthcare. My upbringing has taught me compassion, empathy, and the ability to reach out to people in need, which are all crucial traits for a nurse. Furthermore, my fluency in Spanish enables me to communicate effectively with Spanish-speaking patients and provide them with better care. I am secure that my background and cultural awareness will help me become a better nurse and provide more personalized care to patients from all around the world.

My name is Sarita, a 17-year-old girl immigrant girl from Colombia who wants to make an impact in the world. I strongly believe every human is unique in their way and I am no different, if anything I am more than unique but impactful. I have always been enamored by the human body and how it works, which prompted me to pursue a nursing career. Growing up, I was always caring and attentive. I have often volunteered at local community events and helped out at my church. As time progressed, I realized that I needed to do more to give back to my community. I started exploring different careers where I could help others while challenging myself intellectually. Nursing turned out to be perfect for me. What makes me exclusive and unique is my dedication and drive to prosper. There were many obstacles in my life, but I was always patient and never gave up on my dreams. I come from a low-income family and have struggled financially all my life, yet I never let my circumstances construe me. Instead, I used them as an encouragement to work harder and reach my goals. I am currently in my junior year of high school and am taking courses in pre-med, psychology and soon AP bio in preparation for nursing school. I also want to volunteer at a local hospital such as Hackensack Hospital here in New Jersey. There I will have the opportunity to accompany the nurses and observe their daily lives. These courses firmly established my devotion to nursing and further stimulated my desire to become a nurse. As a nurse, I want to contribute to the lives of patients. I believe that being a nurse is a unique opportunity to provide not only medical care but also sentimental support. I want to be a hero and a form of comfort and stability to patients and their families in times of crisis. I want to be a reason for someone to smile and feel confident during difficult times in life. Besides working as a nurse, I aspire to give back to the nation and other parts of the world in other ways. I would like to volunteer at a health fair to implement free healthcare for those who cannot afford it. I also want to coach adolescent girls from low-income households and inspire them to persist in their dreams, big and small.

Innovation has been at the forefront of human advancement, and the blending of scientific discovery and creative problem-solving has produced some genuinely spectacular solutions to social issues. One illustration is the creation of a novel form of concrete called "self-healing concrete," which has the potential to revolutionize the building sector. Scientists looking to create a substance that could fix its own microcracks first proposed the concept of self-healing concrete. They set out to research how naturally existing biological molecules can affect synthetic materials with therapeutic qualities using funds from the European Union. The end result is a special kind of concrete that includes microscopic capsules that are packed with nutrients and germs. Concrete capsules break when concrete cracks, letting germs and nutrients into the crack. The calcium carbonate that the bacteria generate after consuming the nutrients fills the fractures in the concrete and "repairs" it. The construction sector might undergo a dramatic transformation thanks to this ground-breaking material, which would decrease the need for expensive and time-consuming repairs and increase the lifespan of structures. The environment can also be greatly impacted by lowering the quantity of garbage produced by conventional construction techniques. This invention is the ideal illustration of how inventive thought and scientific expertise may be combined to produce ground-breaking answers to common problems. We needed to learn more about the biological mechanisms underlying healing and innovative problem-solving in natural materials and figure out how to mimic similar mechanisms in synthetic materials. The creation of nanotechnology-based water filtration devices is another example of how to address social issues. A basic human requirement is having access to clean water, and new technologies are being created every day to deal with the issue of contaminants in water. A particular method is the use of nano filters, which purify water by using pores with a diameter of just a few nanometers. As nanofillers can get rid of impurities at the molecular level whereas conventional filters can only remove larger-scale sediments, this technology has the potential to transform the way water is filtered. Moreover, nanofillers are very effective and can be produced at scale at a reasonable price, with filtering rates up to 10 times greater than those of conventional filters. With the use of this technology, the prevalence of water-borne illnesses, which take millions of lives annually, might be greatly reduced. In conclusion, it is evident that fusing original thought with scientific understanding has produced ground-breaking answers to society's problems. These inventions have the power to revolutionize how society as a whole works, lives and solves issues. We may anticipate even more amazing answers to common problems as we continue to learn more about the world around us, ultimately resulting in a better future for all of us.

Growing up in the inner city is a blessing and a curse. Beginning with the positives, I am able to experience all forms of culture, and life experiences. But the biggest curse is being exposed to violence, drugs, and negative influence at a young age. I began to see these challenges the moment I entered, middle school. The majority of my friends fell into the use of drugs and became sloppy and lazy. I was faced with the challenge of temptation, almost like I was in a cartoon with an angel and a devil on both shoulders. These were the people that I grew up with they were no longer friends they were my family. Sometimes I felt like if I didn’t do what they were doing that they wouldn’t want to be my friend anymore because I was boring or not as fun as I used to be. After-school activities, such as studying soon became parties, and going to the pizza shop soon became illegal activities. As I got older and entered, high school problems got bigger. My town, unfortunately, became more dangerous although it wasn’t a rule it was very apparent that after a certain time, you cannot go outside. murders and drive-by shootings began to occur very frequently, especially in the surrounding towns such as Paterson, Passaic, and Clifton. But the most important thing that was affected by growing up in the inner city, was my education. My school lacks a lot of resources that they need, but the biggest resource that we do not have is teachers. There is an extremely low rate of teachers because they quit and leave in order to find better jobs or find a more stable work environment because my school began to become very dangerous with fights and violence. Due to the lower rate of teachers, there are specific subjects that are not being taught. Easy work is just being handed out to fill in a class. In addition, the school does not have the funding to pay for substitutes. We are also losing money and they’re not able to host, typical or traditional events because there is no support from the students or from the staff. With all of these issues, I have found ways to face my challenges. A group of students and I in the student council began to raise money by selling baked goods or creating after-school activities that people are able to come and participate in. We’ve raised thousands of dollars and have been able to pay off our prom and future events. In addition to that, I personally volunteer and something called the homework club where people who need assistance come after school, and I can personally help them with all forms of subjects from math, science and language arts, and history or social studies. My biggest priority is to help my community and the people that I love and the people that I have grown up with. Another way that I have been able to face challenges is by keeping my strong will and sticking to my morals. I can probably say that I have never fallen into the hands of any form of illegal activity. My school record is clean in my record to the world is also clean. I continue to prosper as an honor and advanced placement student. I also act as an encouragement for my friends, and I have even helped them come out of some of the hardest points in their lives. I am always a helping hand and I use research and knowledge in order to help those around me.

I grew up in a “Barrio” or city named Pereira In the country of Colombia. I live there from the time I was born until I was six years old. I live with my grandparents and my single mother, and although my mom tried to shield me from the dangers of the outside world's destruction, and violence, it is sometimes things that cannot be hidden. Ever since I was younger, I’ve always been a bright and outstanding student even winning a scholarship and pre-K at my school. You might be thinking if she pays for school she must’ve been rich and went to a private school but unfortunately in Colombia education is not free. Thanks to my mother. I got the opportunity to move to the USA to a small state named New Jersey. I remember the first day that I entered first grade with all the help in my heart, but that they ended in tragedy. As a seven-year-old, I couldn’t fathom why people couldn’t understand me no matter how hard I try to express myself to adults or students knowing what I was saying. I struggled for a whole year learning the English language, but once I got the hang of it, I excelled to the max. I am now a junior in high school, and of all my years in the US educational system, I have taken honors and AP classes. Although, at the beginning of my life, I struggled, I began to overcome and prosper. I now use my knowledge to tutor kids that are part of the ESL program and also tutor classes, such as Algebra I and II, Geometry, language arts, and different categories of sciences. To think that a language barrier at the beginning of my life was such an issue, but would then become my biggest strength, as I now can communicate with so many more people my life has changed drastically and positively. Just like Maggie, I am also a risk taker I love hiking, cycling, and surfing. Speaking of surfing my school is one of the only schools that has a surfing club in all of North Jersey and I am one of the founders and presidents of the club. Just like in my daily life and in the club, we inspire and encourage people to take risks and find new hobbies that they would not think they could possibly do. Sometimes I think of my life as a wave at first everything looks so big and scary but once you take on the challenge or the wave, it becomes pretty smooth, and if anything therapeutic to know that I was able to overcome that.

Support is the synonym for mother in my world. From the beginning, my mother with no support from a man raised me in a third-world country known as Colombia and found ways to better my future and make sure I was capable of achieving things way beyond the possibilities she had in her adolescence. Growing up in a "Barrio" as we call it or town there were a lot of dangerous aspects such as drugs, the cartel, violence and gangs but as a child, my mother a woman in a male-dominated world was able to protect me although she was also in danger. As our town got worse my mother realized it was time to leave and that's when we migrated from Colombia to the USA. My mom worked blue-collar jobs such as a house cleaner and waitress in a Hispanic restaurant not knowing the language to make sure I was capable of being stable in the States. Over time my mother motivated and supported me and gave me the best advice through my childhood and teenage years. Her motivation for education inspired me to always strive for the best and therefore I was capable of meeting the requirements for AP and Honors classes. When things get hard my mother is understanding and never forceful. When my interest in the field of healthcare, specifically nursing, began to rise she would purchase me books about parts of the body and even helped me find a volunteer opportunity at a nearby hospital. Even with simple Tik Tok videos about nursing my mom constantly sends and motivates me and allows me to receive the materials I need to thrive. Any form of award ceremony no matter how busy she was she always attended and made sure to show up with some sort of gift although, for me, the best gift is her presence. In addition, my mother will not buy things for herself just to make sure I have the opportunity to buy anything I need for my education such as paying for extra tutoring classes or materials for school. My mother also encourages me to participate in clubs and even contributes to the clubs such as the student council and surf club which I run and manage. I do not desire the need for another parental figure as my mother does it all, I've never felt emptiness as she fills in the shoes of a father and a mother. Although my mother may struggle financially or things may get difficult she always puts a bright smile on her face and makes sure it never affects me. As a child, my mother shielded me from the dangers of the outside world but also involved me and taught me valuable lessons. Unlike most parents she didn't want me to just learn on my own, but instead be there and guide me as much as she can and also let me realize the truth and the reality of the world. Although my mother does not earn a lot she began to save money for my future college education and we now have 2,000 dollars saved. Although it does not seem like a lot it does not matter because I know my mother is doing the best she possibly can to help me. My mother is the definition of support.

I, Sarita Valencia view myself as a future nurse, entrepreneur in the beauty industry and an impact on women around the world through the influence of education.

Me being a junior in high school, you may be thinking, how would she know anything about managing finances? Watching the financial struggles my parents have been surrounded by also taught me various lessons. Being the child of immigrant non-English speaking parents I've had to be a banker, tax preparer and letter reader to translate and explain to them what is going on financially within the home. Events like this have given me a strong insight into the real world. I have learned that administering your finances is one of the most essential things you can do to prepare yourself for future success. It can feel disheartening to maneuver classes, homework, and part-time jobs while keeping a record of your financial situation, but taking the time now to enact favorable economic management will compensate you in the deep run. There are considerable reasons why administering your finances as a junior is so crucial. First and foremost, it helps you avoid debt. Student loans are a beneficial tool in helping you pay for college but borrowing too much can make it difficult for you to pay after you graduate. By carefully administering your finances, you can avoid incurring extra debt than you can grasp. Not only can you avoid debt, but you can also save money by managing your household finances. By generating a budget and sticking to it, you can analyze areas where you may be wasting money and find ways to trim it. This way, you can save money for emergencies, forthcoming costs, or everlasting goals like acquiring a car or home. During my junior year of high school, I was always fascinated by managing my finances. I have been saving since I was young and with the advent of technology, I became addicted to financial apps and online resources. I knew it was important to manage my finances, especially with college on the horizon. I started by setting a budget that I would strictly adhere to each month. I knew that the key to financial stability was living within my means, so I've always tried to only use what I had. I also had a part-time job at a local coffee shop, which provided me with a stable income. I started saving a portion of my income every month to pay for college. I know college is expensive, but every dollar I save goes a long way toward making my dreams come true. I also pay attention to how I spend my money. I only spent money on things I needed, like school supplies and the occasional treat. Avoid impulse purchases and buy after careful consideration.

My main inspiration to pursue a career in the medical field started when I was diagnosed with kidney stones when I was 16 years old. Although pain should not be inspiring and a hospital trip is not pleasing it opened my eyes to the field of nursing. The comfort I felt with each nurse and the conversations I had about their daily activities and responsibilities brought a strong interest into my life. The ability to help and provide for humanity made me realize my meaning in life is to assist others. The same comfort and security I felt those 2 days in the hospital thanks to all the amazing nurses who individually assisted me and made me feel special although they had been working with multiple patients, inspired me to one day provide that same feeling to others. Once I left the hospital I did research for about a week about nursing and although multiple sources stated it was hard and had a heavy workload instead of it discouraging me it drove me to want to pursue it even more. In June of 2023, I will be turning 18 years old and although it has been 2 years since that incident I still maintain the drive and inspiration to one day become a nurse. I plan on giving back to my Hispanic community by using my ability to speak 2 languages fluently to communicate with families and bring them the comfort and security that they need in a time of desperation. With my parents being immigrants and not speaking English I've noticed how important it is to have professionals who can communicate and comfort either the patients or the family of patients. Being bilingual will provide a big help to the Hispanic community and even inspire people to pursue careers in medicine. In addition, I would like to volunteer in programs for children and use social media as a platform in the future to speak about the steps I took to earn my career and hopefully one day volunteer out of the country such as in my home country Colombia and provide those who are less fortunate with high medical assistance. After living for multiple years in Colombia and the USA I greatly learned about the differences in the medical attention in both countries. I would also love to create courses in Colombia and speak in schools and donate first aid kits to schools all over Colombia and the USA and teach children first aid assistance and how to handle situations. All in all my dream is to help and make an impact on the world and thanks to my ability to speak Spanish and English ill be able to touch those in not only North America but South.