My name is Shania, and I’m an accelerated practical nursing (LPN) student and a single mother to a little girl who gives me the courage to keep going every day. My journey has been shaped by my experiences with mental illness—both my own and my brother’s—and by the way those experiences have changed how I see people, pain, and healing. When my brother was diagnosed with schizophrenia, everything in our family shifted. I watched someone I loved drift between moments of clarity and moments of confusion that none of us could fully understand. It was heartbreaking to see him trapped inside his mind while we stood by, powerless to pull him out. There were nights filled with fear, frustration, and tears, and times I wondered if things would ever feel normal again. But through all of it, I learned compassion—how to sit with someone in their darkness, even when you can’t fix it. That lesson has stayed with me and has become the foundation of why I want to be a nurse. I’ve faced my own battles too. Anxiety has followed me for as long as I can remember. I’ve had panic attacks so severe I’ve passed out. There have been days when it felt like my own body was turning against me—heart racing, chest tightening, vision fading. It’s a kind of fear that’s hard to explain unless you’ve lived it. But even through those moments, I’ve learned that my anxiety doesn’t define me—it reminds me that I’m human, and that healing is not always a straight line. Balancing motherhood, school, and mental health has been one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. Some days, the stress feels unbearable, but I remind myself why I started—to give my daughter a better life and to help people who feel unseen. When I care for patients who are anxious, scared, or misunderstood, I see myself in them. I see my brother. I see my family. And I know exactly how much it means to have someone who simply listens and understands. Mental illness has taught me empathy in a way no textbook ever could. It has shown me the quiet strength of survival and the power of compassion. Receiving the Elizabeth Schalk Memorial Scholarship would mean more than financial help—it would be a symbol of hope. Elizabeth’s story reminds me that even when life is full of struggle, there is beauty in resilience. I want to carry that spirit with me into my nursing career, showing every patient that their life matters, their pain is real, and they are never alone.

My name is Shania, and I am an accelerated practical nursing (LPN) student whose greatest inspiration is my four-year-old daughter. Becoming a mother changed my entire outlook on life it gave me both my reason and my strength. Every long night of studying and every challenge I face in nursing school is for her. I want to show her that education can transform pain into purpose, and that no matter where you start, you can always create a better future through hard work and compassion. My path to nursing has not been easy. Growing up, I moved schools often, which made learning inconsistent and sometimes discouraging. There were moments when I questioned if college or even stability would ever be possible for me. But when I became pregnant, something in me shifted. I realized I had the power to break the cycle of instability for my daughter. I graduated high school with the help of supportive teachers and set my heart on nursing a career that blends knowledge, empathy, and service. As I work toward becoming an LPN, I’ve found my passion in maternal and child health. I want to be the kind of nurse who stands beside mothers during the most vulnerable times of their lives. Being a young single mother myself, I understand the fear, exhaustion, and love that come with bringing life into the world. My dream is to provide care that helps other women feel safe, respected, and understood especially those from underrepresented communities who may feel overlooked within the healthcare system. Aaryn Railyn King’s belief that education is the key to achieving one’s dreams mirrors my own journey. Though her life was tragically cut short, her legacy lives on through opportunities like this one empowering students like me to keep striving toward a brighter tomorrow. To me, education isn’t just about earning a degree; it’s about gaining the knowledge to heal others, to lead with empathy, and to inspire change. Receiving this scholarship would mean more than financial support it would be a reminder that perseverance and purpose matter. I want to honor Aaryn’s memory by carrying her light into every patient’s room, every act of care, and every moment I encourage someone not to give up. Through nursing, I will continue her legacy of using education to uplift others and to prove that even a short life, when rooted in love and learning, can make an everlasting difference.

EDM has always been more than just music to me; it’s an experience that awakens something deep within the soul. The energy, the lights, and the shared emotion that ripple through a crowd remind me of how powerful human connection can be. I discovered EDM during one of the hardest times in my life, when I felt isolated and unsure of who I was or what I wanted to become. I didn’t expect that listening to music with no words could speak to me so clearly. The melodies, beats, and drops became a language that expressed everything I couldn’t say out loud. Over time, EDM helped me rebuild my sense of confidence and identity. The artists, the community, and even random people online showed me that this culture is built around self-expression, love, and acceptance. There’s no judgment about how you look, where you’re from, or what your story is. Everyone is welcome to show up exactly as they are. That message changed the way I saw myself and how I interact with others. I started to carry that same open-mindedness into my everyday life, treating people with more compassion and understanding. The EDM community’s spirit of creativity also inspired me to dream bigger. Watching DJs mix songs and producers layer sounds into something that moves thousands of people made me realize how powerful art can be when it’s created with passion. It pushed me to approach my own goals with that same intensity and dedication. Even though I’m not a DJ or musician, I’ve learned to see life like a mix blending struggles and triumphs into something meaningful. That perspective helps me stay positive and motivated, especially when life gets loud and chaotic. What makes EDM special is how it brings people together, even if they come from completely different worlds. I’ve met people through music who became lifelong friends, and none of us would have crossed paths without it. There’s something magical about dancing next to strangers who all share the same heartbeat in that moment. It’s proof that connection doesn’t always need words; sometimes it just needs rhythm. Because of EDM, I’ve learned to lead with empathy, creativity, and openness. It taught me that spreading good energy can create a ripple effect far beyond what we see. Whether it’s through my future career, friendships, or daily interactions, I want to embody that same sense of unity and love that the EDM community has shown me.

My name is Shania, and my goal is to go as far as I can in education and in life. I’ve always believed that learning has the power to change everything it can open doors that once felt completely closed. I’m currently enrolled in a nursing program, and while it’s been one of the hardest things I’ve ever done, it’s also been one of the most rewarding. Every long night of studying and every early morning clinical is an investment in my future and in the future of my daughter. I’m not just earning a degree; I’m building a life filled with purpose and stability for both of us. As a first-generation college student, my journey hasn’t been easy. I didn’t grow up surrounded by examples of people who went to college or finished it. Higher education always seemed like something that other people could achieve but not me. The financial barriers, the responsibilities of motherhood, and the uncertainty of starting from scratch all made it feel impossible. But even with all the challenges, I made a promise to myself that I would never give up. I’ve learned that the biggest limitations in life are the ones you accept, and I refuse to accept anything that keeps me from reaching my potential. My dream is to continue advancing in nursing as far as I possibly can. I plan to become a licensed practical nurse, then a registered nurse, and eventually earn my bachelor’s and master’s degrees in nursing. I want to specialize in women’s health or pediatrics because caring for mothers and children has always felt close to my heart. I want to be the nurse who makes people feel seen, safe, and supported especially those who often go unheard in healthcare settings. This scholarship would make a huge difference in helping me reach those goals. It would relieve some of the financial stress that comes with tuition, childcare, and daily expenses while I’m in school. It would give me the chance to focus more on learning and less on worrying about how I’ll afford it all. In the long run, I want to give back by mentoring other young women who are trying to build better lives for themselves through education. I want my story to show that no matter your background or struggles, your dreams are still possible. Education is the foundation of my future, and this scholarship would help me continue building it one step, one class, and one success at a time.

My name is Shania, and I am a nursing student working hard to build a better life for myself and my daughter. Becoming a nurse has always been more than just a career goal to me it’s a way to give back to the world and to empower others, especially women, who are often overlooked or underestimated. I know what it feels like to struggle, to be talked over, and to have to fight twice as hard to be heard. That’s why I want to use my career to lift up other women, to make sure they are cared for, respected, and supported in every way possible. I am currently studying in a practical nursing program, and my experiences have shown me how deeply compassion can impact someone’s healing. Nursing is one of the few careers where science and humanity meet every single day. It takes skill, strength, and heart, and I’m proud to be learning how to bring all three into my future work. I want to be the nurse who helps women feel seen and safe whether it’s a patient going through childbirth, someone struggling with their mental health, or a woman who doesn’t feel heard when she tries to advocate for her own body. My journey hasn’t been an easy one. As a single mom, I’ve had to balance parenting, school, and financial challenges all at once. But those experiences have made me more determined to succeed. They’ve taught me patience, resilience, and how to stay calm when things get hard skills that are vital in healthcare. I’ve learned that success isn’t about having the easiest path; it’s about refusing to give up on yourself even when things feel impossible. In the future, I plan to become a registered nurse and eventually work my way toward a degree in women’s health or pediatrics. I want to educate, advocate, and care for women in every stage of life. My goal is to help create a world where women’s voices are heard, their pain is taken seriously, and their potential is limitless. Nursing gives me the chance to be part of that change and that’s exactly what I intend to do. I also want to use my career to mentor and motivate other women who are trying to reach their goals, especially those who are juggling school, motherhood, or other responsibilities like I am. I believe representation matters, and I want young women to see that no matter their background or situation, they can still achieve something meaningful. If I can inspire even one person to keep pushing toward their dream, then I’ll know I’ve made a difference. My purpose as a nurse goes beyond the hospital walls it’s about creating hope, strength, and opportunity wherever I go.

My vision for myself as a future nurse is to be someone who brings both skill and heart into every situation. Nursing isn’t just a career to me; it’s a calling. I want to be the kind of nurse who makes people feel safe and cared for when they’re at their most vulnerable. I believe that every patient deserves kindness, patience, and respect, and I want to be the person who provides that. The road to nursing has not been easy, but it has been meaningful. I am a young single mother, balancing school, parenting, and the responsibilities that come with both. There are days when I am exhausted or overwhelmed, but I keep going because I know what my purpose is. I want to create a stable and successful future for my daughter, and I want to make a difference for the people I care for. My experiences have taught me to stay calm under pressure and to always lead with empathy, which I believe are two of the most important qualities a nurse can have. In the future, I see myself working in a field that allows me to connect deeply with my patients, such as women’s health or pediatrics. I want to support mothers, children, and families through some of the hardest and most meaningful moments of their lives. Whether it’s helping a new mom feel confident caring for her baby or comforting a child who is scared in the hospital, I want to be the kind of nurse who helps people feel seen, heard, and valued. I also want to continue my education after becoming a licensed practical nurse. My goal is to become a registered nurse and eventually a nurse educator. I want to guide and encourage other students who might be struggling like I once did. I know how it feels to doubt yourself, but I also know that determination can turn dreams into reality. My vision is to grow into a nurse who not only heals but inspires. I want to make an impact that lasts beyond a single shift or a single patient. I want to build a legacy of compassion, strength, and hope one patient, one act of care, and one success story at a time. I know that becoming the kind of nurse I dream of being will take time, patience, and hard work, but I’m ready for it. Every long night of studying, every early morning clinical, and every challenge I’ve faced so far has pushed me to grow into someone stronger and more focused. I don’t want to just earn a nursing license; I want to live up to what it means to wear those scrubs with pride. My goal is to carry Sheila Burke’s legacy of compassion and excellence into everything I do, and to keep paying it forward by lifting others up the same way I’ve been lifted. Nursing isn’t just about saving lives—it’s about touching hearts, and that’s exactly what I plan to do.

My decision to pursue my education at a community college comes from both personal experience and purpose. As a single mother, I’ve learned to balance school, work, and parenting all at once. It hasn’t been easy, but it’s shown me how strong and capable I truly am. I’m currently enrolled in a nursing program, but I’ve always admired the sense of community, flexibility, and support that community colleges provide. If I had the opportunity, I would love to attend Columbus State Community College. Their nursing program has an incredible reputation, and I personally know several successful, intelligent nurses who graduated from there. They’ve inspired me to aim higher and continue pushing toward my goals, even when life gets hard. Community college represents more than just affordability to me it represents opportunity and second chances. For many of us who juggle parenting, financial challenges, or gaps in education, community college is a door that opens when other doors seem closed. I want to walk through that door fully and take advantage of every opportunity to grow into the kind of nurse who makes a difference. My goal is not only to become a licensed practical nurse, but also to continue my education to become a registered nurse, and eventually earn my bachelor’s degree. I want to specialize in women’s health and maternal care because my own pregnancy experience taught me how deeply nurses can impact someone’s life. Nurses were the ones who saw me when I felt invisible who offered kindness, reassurance, and knowledge when I needed it most. That’s the kind of nurse I want to be. Attending a community college like Columbus State would allow me to receive quality education in an environment that understands students like me hardworking, multitasking, and determined to make a better life for their families. I want my daughter to see that even when things are difficult, you can still chase your dreams and turn them into something meaningful. This scholarship would help relieve some of the financial stress that often weighs on students like me, allowing me to focus on what truly matters: learning, growing, and becoming the best nurse I can possibly be. I believe community college is the foundation that can help me get there one step, one class, and one goal at a time.

Growing up with a sibling who lives with a chronic medical condition has changed my life in ways I never expected. It’s one thing to learn about illness from a textbook, but it’s completely different to see it up close to see how it affects a person’s energy, relationships, and ability to navigate the world. Watching someone I love face daily challenges that others might never notice has given me a deep sense of empathy and a drive to make a difference in the lives of others. There have been hard days days when worry, confusion, or exhaustion filled our home but there have also been moments of grace. My loved one’s strength, even in small victories, has shown me what perseverance truly looks like. I’ve learned to celebrate progress, no matter how slow, and to recognize that healing isn’t always about being “cured.” Sometimes it’s about stability, understanding, and unconditional support. That realization has become the foundation of who I am and why I chose to pursue nursing. This experience has inspired me to see every patient as more than their condition. I know how powerful it can be when a healthcare provider listens without judgment, takes time to explain things clearly, and treats a patient with dignity. Those small acts can completely change a person’s outlook and remind them they’re not alone. As a nursing student, I carry that perspective with me every day. It motivates me to show compassion in every interaction and to bring patience and understanding into every care setting. Balancing school, family, and emotional challenges has not been easy, but it’s taught me resilience. It has shown me that determination is built through experience, not comfort. There were moments when I doubted whether I could continue my education while helping at home, but the thought of my loved one pushing through their own struggles reminded me that giving up wasn’t an option. Their courage fuels mine. My goal as a future nurse is to use the empathy and perspective I’ve gained to empower others. I want to help people living with chronic illnesses and their families feel seen, supported, and capable of living meaningful lives. I hope to advocate for those who can’t always speak for themselves and to create the kind of compassionate environment I always wished for my loved one. Living alongside someone with a chronic condition has taught me that compassion is the strongest form of healing. That lesson continues to guide my journey, reminding me that even small acts of care can change a life sometimes, including your own.

As a single mother and a woman of color, mental health is something that has shaped every part of my life. I’ve experienced discrimination while working as a caregiver and as a student, and I’ve seen firsthand how hard it can be to find compassion and understanding when you’re struggling inside. My journey with anxiety and depression started young, and it has been a long road learning how to live with it, especially while trying to build a better future for myself and my daughter. When I was in high school, my panic attacks were so severe that I needed a special pass to leave class early before the hallways filled with people. I used to have such intense panic episodes that I truly believed I was dying. My mom even called EMS once because she thought it was a medical emergency. It made me realize how serious mental health struggles can be. Many of us are taught to “push through” or stay quiet, even when we’re suffering. As a nursing student, I see how deeply connected mental and physical health are. I want to use my platform in healthcare to advocate for programs that make therapy and mental health resources available in everyday places. If given the opportunity, I’ll continue my journey in nursing with the goal of expanding access to mental health resources for marginalized communities. Because everyone deserves support, no matter their background or income and I want to help make that possible.

My journey into nursing started long before I ever put on scrubs. It began with my family having specifically my brother, who has schizophrenia, and my mom, who has carried our family through everything with incredible strength. Watching her balance it all his care, our survival, and her own exhaustion taught me what compassion and resilience look like. Even as a kid, I could see how much difference one person’s care and patience could make in someone else’s hardest moments. That’s what planted the seed for nursing. When my brother’s mental health got worse, our whole world shifted. He began talking to himself, pacing for hours, washing his hair repeatedly, blasting loud music just to drown out the voices. My parents were overwhelmed. My mom tried her best, but the weight of everything fell mostly on her. I watched how easily people judged my brother or looked away when he needed help. That’s when I realized I wanted to be someone who doesn’t look away. I wanted to be the kind of nurse who sees the person beneath the illness the kind of person who brings calm to someone’s chaos. Now, as a nursing student in an accelerated program, that motivation keeps me going. My schedule is packed with clinicals, labs, and assignments that can run 20 to 30 pages each. On top of that, I work long shifts just to keep up financially. It’s not easy, but every long night studying or working feels worth it because I know what’s waiting at the end: the chance to make real change for people like my brother. Nursing isn’t just a job for me it’s a purpose that connects to everything I’ve lived through. My mom, who’s also a nurse, inspires me daily. Even though she had limited support, she never stopped showing up for us. She’s the one who taught me that being a nurse is more than just medical skill it’s emotional strength, patience, and the ability to bring light into dark situations. Seeing the way she cared for patients (and for us) helped me understand how powerful kindness can be. I want to carry that same energy forward into my own career. Outside of nursing, I find peace in small creative things that help me recharge like journaling, writing affirmations, and practicing gratitude. I’ve been learning about manifestation and finding strength through positivity, even when life feels overwhelming. Those moments remind me that I’m more than just a student or caregiver; I’m also someone who deserves to rest, dream, and enjoy life. Balancing motherhood, work, and nursing school isn’t easy, but I see it as part of my purpose. I have a four-year-old daughter who watches me study late at night, and I want her to grow up knowing that even when things are hard, she can still chase her dreams. I want her to see that strength doesn’t mean never struggling it means showing up anyway. Nursing has given me direction, but it’s also helped me heal. It’s a career built on empathy, patience, and love qualities I’ve had to live firsthand. I don’t see it as just a way to make a living; I see it as a calling that ties together everything I’ve learned about life, family, and resilience. If there’s one thing I’ve learned from my experiences, it’s that compassion can completely change someone’s story. I’ve seen it in the way my mom comforted patients, in the way nurses treated my brother with respect, and even in how my instructors remind us why this work matters. That’s what I hope to carry into my career the ability to bring calm, comfort, and dignity to every patient I meet. Nursing has shaped who I am, but the people I love are what keep me grounded. Between my family, my faith in myself, and my passion for helping others, I’ve found purpose even in the chaos. That’s the kind of nurse I want to be: someone who shows up fully, with heart, no matter how hard the day gets.

Growing up with a single mother shaped every part of who I am today. My mom and dad got married when I was around ten or eleven, but things were never easy. My dad was always out cheating and putting my mom through hell, so most of the responsibility for raising me and my brother fell on her. My brother has schizophrenia, and watching my mom handle everything on her own showed me what real strength looks like. There were times when it felt like the world was stacked against us. My mom worked long hours, sometimes barely sleeping, just to make sure we had what we needed. She took care of my brother when his mental health made things unpredictable and still found ways to show up for me, even when she was exhausted. Watching my mom go through so much really changed my perspective on life as I got older. And the older i became the more and more I started to realize about the situation. She didn’t have anyone to fall back on, but she never gave up on us. Both of my grandparents are no longer living so that adds to the trauma my mother experienced. My mom is a nurse which is what I’m in school for it motivates me everyday when I think about it. Seeing her do everything by herself taught me resilience and independence. I learned early how to step up, help around the house, and stay focused on my goals even when things got chaotic. I also learned empathy from watching her struggle but still find compassion for others. That’s one of the biggest reasons I want to become a nurse. I know what it’s like to be in difficult situations and to have someone’s kindness make all the difference. My mom’s sacrifices and strength are what drive me to keep going in nursing school, no matter how hard it gets. When I feel overwhelmed, I remind myself that if she could handle everything she did, I can push through, too. She taught me that love isn’t about having it easy it’s about showing up, fighting through, and never giving up on the people you care about. Growing up with a single mother made me tougher, more compassionate, and more determined to build a better future for both of us. Everything I do now is to make her proud and to honor the strength she showed me every single day.

I became a fan of Sabrina Carpenter because she’s the kind of artist who makes you feel seen. I first discovered her through her music, but what really drew me in was how honest she is about growing up, making mistakes, and finding confidence in who you are. She doesn’t try to be perfect; she just tries to be real. One of the biggest reasons I look up to Sabrina is because she turned challenges into fuel for her success. She’s faced criticism, comparisons, and moments where people didn’t take her seriously, but she never let that stop her. Instead, she kept working, improving, and proving that she’s more than what people expected. That really resonates with me, especially as someone who’s had to overcome my own struggles while chasing my dreams. Her album “Emails I Can’t Send” hit me hard because it’s about heartbreak, growth, and learning to speak your truth. Listening to those songs helped me realize it’s okay to feel hurt and still move forward. She writes in a way that’s personal but universal, like she’s putting words to emotions I didn’t know how to explain. Sabrina’s career has also inspired me to stay confident in my own path. I’m working toward becoming a nurse, which takes a lot of strength and patience, and sometimes I doubt myself. But seeing her stay determined, even when things get hard, reminds me that I can do the same. She shows that success doesn’t happen overnight and that it’s okay to keep growing into who you’re meant to be. What I love most about Sabrina Carpenter is how she uses her platform with kindness and humor. She doesn’t take herself too seriously, and that’s refreshing. It reminds me that you can work hard, dream big, and still be yourself through it all. Her journey has taught me to believe in my voice, even when it feels small. Because if she can turn her story into something that inspires millions, maybe I can too in my own way, through the care and compassion I bring to others as a nurse.

The most moving performance of Taylor Swift’s career for me was her performance of “All Too Well (10 Minute Version)” at the 2021 Grammy Awards. I’ve seen Taylor perform plenty of times, but that one hit different. You could feel every emotion she poured into the song, like she wasn’t just performing it but actually reliving it. The way her voice cracked at certain lyrics and the way the camera caught her closing her eyes between verses made it feel raw and real. “All Too Well” has always been one of my favorite songs because it’s about heartbreak, growth, and learning to own your story. When she performed it, it didn’t feel like just another sad love song. It felt like closure. You could see a woman who had once been broken, now standing on stage stronger than ever, performing a song that the whole world once misunderstood but now finally respected. What made that moment even more powerful was the way the audience reacted. Everyone was silent, completely focused on her. You could tell people were emotionally right there with her, remembering their own heartbreaks and moments of loss. It reminded me that art, especially Taylor’s music, connects people through shared pain and healing. That performance also showed what it means to evolve as an artist. Taylor turned a song she wrote when she was young and heartbroken into something timeless and empowering. She wasn’t the same person she was when she first wrote it, and that’s what made it beautiful. It was like she was saying, “I’ve been through this, I’ve healed, and I’m still here.” I think that’s what I admire most about Taylor Swift. She doesn’t just perform songs; she performs pieces of her life. She shares her vulnerability without shame, and that inspires me to do the same in my own life. Whether it’s pushing through nursing school, raising my daughter, or learning to believe in myself again, her music reminds me that you can always rewrite your story and still come out stronger.

My new Love Island challenge would be called “The Heart Switch.” It’s all about testing how real the Islanders’ connections are and seeing who can stay loyal when things get complicated. Here’s how it works. Everyone draws names and gets paired with someone new, not their current partner. These new pairs have to go through three rounds that test chemistry, communication, and honesty while their original partners secretly watch from the Hideaway. The first round is called “Truth or Flirt.” Islanders answer juicy questions about love, jealousy, and attraction. If they refuse to answer, they have to do a flirty dare with their new partner. This round is fun but also really awkward, which makes it even better for TV. The second round is called “Sync or Sink.” The new pairs work together to finish a challenge like an obstacle course or something that requires teamwork. It shows whether they can communicate or if they completely fall apart under pressure. The third round is called “The Emotional Mirror.” This one gets deep. Islanders have to open up about what they’ve learned in the villa, what scares them about falling in love, and what they really want in a partner. It’s the kind of round that could make someone realize they’re actually not as happy in their current couple as they thought. When it’s all over, everyone comes back to the fire pit. The original partners who were watching vote on which temporary couple had the strongest connection, whether that means they stayed loyal or not. The pair with the most votes wins a private dinner or romantic date. But if someone was clearly flirting too much, there’s going to be drama when everything gets revealed. I think “The Heart Switch” would be the perfect mix of chaos, emotion, and honesty. It would give fans everything they love about Love Island loyalty tests, messy moments, and a few shocking confessions but it would also show real growth and vulnerability from the Islanders.

The first time I watched Wicked, I cried. Not just because the story was emotional, but because I finally saw myself in it. I was obsessed with the lore, the music, and the characters, but what hit me the hardest was how deeply I related to Elphaba. I know that feeling of being misunderstood, of being treated like you don’t belong no matter how hard you try. The Wicked Witch wasn’t truly wicked. She was just different, and that realization changed how I saw myself. Elphaba’s story reminded me that being different isn’t something to hide or fix. It’s something to embrace. She stood up for what she believed in even when everyone told her she was wrong. She wasn’t afraid to question authority or challenge injustice, even when it made her an outcast. That kind of courage is what I try to live by every day, especially as a nursing student and a single mom. There are so many moments when I feel like the odds are stacked against me, but Wicked taught me that being different can be my greatest strength. The song “Defying Gravity” has become my personal anthem. When Elphaba sings, “It’s time to trust my instincts, close my eyes, and leap,” it feels like she’s talking directly to me. Nursing school is one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. There are long nights, endless studying, and the challenge of balancing work, motherhood, and caregiving, but that lyric pushes me to keep going. It reminds me that I don’t have to fit the mold or wait for approval from others to rise above what’s holding me down. I also love the friendship between Elphaba and Glinda. It’s messy and real, two people who are complete opposites but still manage to bring out the best in each other. It showed me that even when life feels divided between good and bad, right and wrong, there’s always room for understanding and growth. Their song “For Good” makes me think of all the people who have helped shape me, like teachers, classmates, and even the patients I’ve cared for during clinicals. Everyone leaves a mark, for better or worse, and that’s a beautiful part of life. Wicked isn’t just a musical to me. It’s a reminder that even when the world misunderstands you, you can still make a difference. You can still rise above. You can still be good.

From a young age , I learned what it truly means to care for someone who can no longer care for themselves. My older brother has schizophrenia, and watching him change from the funny protective popular kid he once was into someone who now battles daily with his mind as shaped every part of who I am. When he first began showing symptoms, I was only 15. I didn’t understand what was happening, talking to himself, jumping around in his room and going on walks with loud music blasting in his ears to block out the voices. His paranoia made him lash out in public because he thought people were laughing at him. It broke my heart in at the time no one ever asked how I was coping. My parents were so focused on his care that I became invisible quietly carrying the drama on my own. Now I’m 22 and as an adult, I’ve stepped into the caregiver role myself. My brother lives with us now, and his schizophrenia still requires constant attention. He often doesn’t know how to prepare his own meals, and he needs frequent reminders to eat or bathe. He can go through an entire bottle of shampoo in a day because he feels in overwhelming need to wash his hair. I monitor his medication, I’ve had to call doctors , pharmacies and try to keep his environment safe and calm. It takes a lot of patience and empathy. This is something that I didn’t just learn about in nursing school, but I learned about the real life experience. At the same time, I’m a single mom raising my daughter Armani while enrolled in and accelerated nursing program. My weeks are packed with three homework assignments that can reach 28 pages each and Tutoring sessions. I squeeze in whenever I can. I work 12 hour shifts on top of clinicals often coming home exhausted but still cooking for my brother and my daughter and checking on my brother before helping my daughter down for bed. There are nights it’s very hard to keep going, but then I remind myself why I started this. Caregiving hasn’t just influenced my goals. It’s to find them. My brother‘s journey is a big factor in my choice in my career path. I want to be the kind of nurse that understands healing isn’t just physical. It’s emotional and mental as well. I want to advocate for patients and families who feel unseen just like mine did . Every long night, every challenge every sacrifice is shaping me into becoming the nurse and mother I’ve always dreamed of becoming.

When I was 17 and pregnant, I learned how deeply a nurses actions could impact someone’s life, instead of compassion I was met with judgment. The nurse is giggled, whispered and treated me like I didn’t belong there. I remember, lying in the hospital bed feeling scared, and invisible that experience changed me. I promised myself that if I ever worked in healthcare, I would make never make anyone feel the way they made me feel. That was the moment nursing first entered my heart, even if I didn’t know it yet. Years later, I became a caregiver. I took the job thinking it would be temporary just something to pay the bills, but from the very beginning, something felt different. The resident smiled when they saw me. They told me I made their day better because I was patient, gentle and understanding For the first time in my life. I felt like I had a purpose. I wasn’t just doing a job, I was making people feel valued and cared for that connection reminded me of why I wanted to be in healthcare in the first place to bring humanity into every interaction My grandmother’s passing me, my inspiration for nursing even stronger during her final days I watched my mother who is a nurse advocate for her with such grace and strength. She understood her medication‘s comforted her through the pain and she spoke up when something didn’t seem right. I realize I wanted to be able to do the same thing. Nursing is more than a career to me is calling born from the pain and purpose. To me human touch means more than physical contact it means connection the kind that says I see you and you matter in nursing humid touch could be simple holding hand during a difficult moment making eye contact or taking a few minutes to truly listen some of the residents I care for had no family or friends visiting them for them. My small gestures met everything to them. I’ve had residence hold my hand and tell me how much they appreciated being heard and respected those moments, reminding me that even the smallest act of compassion Can reach someone’s heart. A healthcare people often rush through their task for forgetting that emotional care is just as important as physical care but ignoring that human connection can leave patients feeling lonely, anxious, or unseen I take the time to connect even when I’m busy because I know how powerful that connection can be in nursing school I learned that older adults are much more successful at suicide and most of the time they show signs that are ignored. A lot of older adults feel forgotten that knowledge strengthen my commitment to always provide care of their honors dignity and build trust. The human touch is what transforms nursing from a profession into a purpose. It turns a routine care into meaningful moments of healing, my journey from a scared teenage patient to a caregiver , to a nursing student has taught me that compassion, empathy and advocacy are the true core of nursing. I remember days coming into work and there will be family members there to see the residents. I was caring for and they told me how much it made their day to see me to see the smile and bright bubbly personality. It was refreshing. I want to be the kind of nurse who listens connects and restores help because sometimes one small act of kindness can change someone’s life forever.

I never expected nursing to find me, but it did. I used to think I wanted to be a veterinarian because I’ve always loved animals even now whenever I see a pet I feel drawn to them, but as I got older, I realized that loving animals didn’t necessarily mean, I wanted to take a career. I don’t caring for them. I tried other things like doing freelance art, which I enjoyed at first, but once he started, I started getting paid for it. It lost his joy. I was searching for something that felt meaningful a purpose not just a paycheck When I became a caregiver, I thought it would be just another job, like folding clothes at Nordstrom rack. But from my very first day, something felt different. I realized I was connecting with people on a level. I had an experience before. I wasn’t just completing task, I was helping people feel seen, valued, and cared for. for the first time, I felt like what I was doing truly mattered. That was the moment I discovered nursing. Working as a caregiver taught me, patience, compassion and empathy. My residence often told me that I made their day brighter because of my kindness and positive energy. They said I treated them with dignity and respect and that meant everything to me. One of my most memorable moments was when the resident at a nursing home where I worked spoke up for me during a resident council meeting they told management they didn’t want me working alone because they saw how hard I worked and how much I cared their support reminded me that advocacy goes both ways just as I stood it for them they still there for me as well. That experience changed my life. It showed me the power of compassion and how deeply nursing can touch people’s lives. I realize that nursing isn’t just a job, it’s a calling it combines everything about you kindness, advocacy, and the opportunity to make a real difference every single day. now, as a nursing student and single mother, I see how every step of my journey prepared me for this path. The challenges of fees have made me stronger, more determined, and more compassionate nursing found me when at least expected it, and I’m proud to say, I found where I truly belong through my life experiences. Thank you so much for reading my story.

When I first started working as a caregiver, I had no idea how far that career path would take me. I remember being treated like I didn’t belong . Some nurses looked down upon me and made comments like “you’re just a caregiver not even a CNA.” Or things like “even if you do get your LPN you’re just a single mom you’ll still be struggling”. Those words definitely still replay in my mind, but instead of letting it break me down I used it to build myself up. I wanted to prove that even though I was a single mother at a young age I could still be successful. It just meant I needed to fight even harder. I failed my HESI entrance exam for nursing school twice trying to go to a nursing school. I went to a second school that had even more subjects on their HESI exam and failed 3 more times. Each failure hurt more and more and I just wanted to give up, but every time I told myself “I can’t just walk away “. I studied harder , took it again , then passed. Then i learned it was almost impossible to even pay for the school I finally got accepted into. The tuition was the price of a large home. It felt like one obstacle after another. Eventually I found a nursing program I could afford that worked for me and today I am in term 3 of my program. After this I will only have one term until I’m completely finished. Recently my clinical became held at the exact same facility where I was told I would struggle because I’m a single mom. I was praised by all the former colleagues I had from that job they all said they were proud of me. I currently have my CNA license and I used the clinical experience I have to help me with my current program. The same people who once doubted me were now surprised to see how far I’ve come. That made me realize how much my hard work and dedication has paid off. I’ve been going so hard I never took a second to see what I had accomplished. This scholarship would not only ease my financial stress but also allow me to fully dedicate myself to my education. Nursing to me is not just a career it’s my calling. I want to comfort and advocate for those who can’t I want to change lives. I’ve been on the other side. Learned the fundamentals. I even know some of the history of nursing at one point in time there were no nursing assistants nurses had to do everything in nursing care. I know how it feels to be a caregiver that’s not respected. And that experience taught me to treat every member of the healthcare staff with the upmost respect. My journey hasn’t been easy, but I know it the end it will all be worth it. Thank you so much for reading my story