Finding Resilience and Hope After Tragedy: My Journey as a Suicide Loss Survivor Losing a loved one to suicide is an experience that brings profound pain and grief, and for me, that loss came when I tragically lost my mom. Her sudden passing left a deep void, one that I was never prepared to face. As I reflect on my journey, I realize that the challenges, lessons, and resilience I’ve encountered have shaped who I am today. I’ve learned that healing is not linear, and it’s okay to feel broken. Despite the pain, I’ve discovered an inner strength that gives me hope for the future. After my mom’s death, I was overwhelmed by anger, guilt, sadness, and confusion. I struggled to find a sense of normalcy, constantly questioning why this had to happen, why I couldn’t save her, and why the world seemed to be against me. Every milestone and special moment felt incomplete without her. She was my rock, my biggest supporter, and her absence was deeply felt in every aspect of my life. There were days when simply getting out of bed seemed impossible, and it was hard to envision a future without her. However, over time, I began to learn valuable lessons from the pain. One important lesson I learned is that healing doesn’t mean forgetting, and grief doesn’t have a set timeline. Carrying the pain with me doesn’t define me. While there have been moments of darkness, there have also been moments of light. In those moments, I realized that my mom’s life had great meaning, and I owed it to her and myself to continue living in a way that honors her memory. I found resilience through purpose. For me, that purpose has come through education and service. I am determined to achieve my academic goals and pursue a career in healthcare, where I can make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Losing my mom highlighted the importance of mental health, and I want to be part of a field that supports those struggling emotionally and psychologically. The Jean Ramirez Scholarship offers me the opportunity to continue pursuing my education and healing. It would alleviate the financial burden of tuition and living expenses, allowing me to focus on my studies and personal growth. This scholarship would also serve as a reminder that resilience is possible, and that even after experiencing deep loss, we can still build fulfilling lives. In conclusion, my journey as a suicide loss survivor has been one of heartache, challenges, and growth. Losing my mom to suicide has profoundly shaped my life, but through education, service, and perseverance, I have found strength and hope. This scholarship will provide the financial support and encouragement I need to continue my journey, pushing toward my goals and honoring my mom’s memory along the way.

Balancing Parenthood and Education: A Path Toward a Better Future Being both a single parent and a student is one of the most challenging experiences I have faced in my life. Balancing the demands of raising a child while pursuing my degree often feels like an uphill battle. However, despite the difficulties, my commitment to my child’s future and my own personal growth keeps me going. I understand that the sacrifices I make today are investments in a better tomorrow—for both myself and my child. The Single Parent Scholarship by Organic Formula Shop is an incredible opportunity for me to ease the burden of my educational costs and pave the way toward a brighter future. The most challenging aspect of being a single parent and a student is managing time and finances. As a parent, my child’s needs come first—whether it is ensuring they are fed, getting them to school, or attending to their emotional needs. All of this takes a significant amount of time and energy. As a student, my commitment to studying, completing assignments, and maintaining a certain academic standing is just as demanding. The limited hours in a day and the constant need to prioritize responsibilities often leave me feeling overwhelmed and exhausted. On top of this, financial strain is a constant reality. Juggling school tuition, childcare expenses, and everyday living costs often feels like a balancing act that could fall apart at any moment. Additionally, financial resources are one of the most pressing challenges single parents face while pursuing higher education. Unlike some of my peers, I do not have a partner to share the financial burden or childcare responsibilities with. This means I must balance work, school, and parenting without the cushion of a second income. Every semester, I rely heavily on scholarships, financial aid, and part-time work to cover tuition and expenses. However, even with these resources, there is always the underlying anxiety that there may not be enough funds to meet all of my needs. This scholarship would provide vital financial assistance, easing the pressure on my finances and allowing me to focus more on my studies and less on making ends meet. Despite these challenges, I see this scholarship as a stepping stone toward a better future. I am pursuing a degree in nursing because I am passionate about healthcare and believe that it is a career that will provide both financial stability and the opportunity to make a positive impact on others. The knowledge and skills I gain through my education will open doors to career opportunities that not only support my family but also contribute to the well-being of my community. With my degree, I will be able to provide a stable and fulfilling life for my child, ensuring they have access to opportunities and experiences that will help them thrive. The $2,000 from this scholarship would provide me with the opportunity to cover part of my tuition and childcare costs. This would significantly ease the burden of my financial struggles and allow me to dedicate more time to my studies without the constant worry of how I will make ends meet. It would also give me the freedom to invest more in personal growth and educational resources, such as books and tools for studying, which are vital for my academic success. In addition, the financial relief would allow me to balance my responsibilities better, knowing that I am supported by a community that understands the struggles of single parents like me. More importantly, this scholarship is not just about the financial relief; it is a symbol of hope and encouragement. It is a reminder that my hard work and determination do not go unnoticed, and that there are people who believe in the value of investing in single parents like me. This scholarship will serve as motivation to keep going, even when the road feels difficult. It will remind me that every challenge I overcome brings me one step closer to fulfilling my dreams and providing a better life for my child. In conclusion, being both a student and a single parent presents unique challenges, but it is also an opportunity for growth, determination, and ambition. The Single Parent Scholarship by Organic Formula Shop would help me achieve my goals by relieving some of the financial strain and allowing me to focus on what matters most—my education and my child’s future. With the support of this scholarship, I am confident that I will be able to finish my degree, pursue a fulfilling career in nursing, and provide my child with the opportunities they deserve.

The opportunity to apply for the Jim Maxwell Memorial Scholarship is meaningful to me, not only because of the financial assistance but also because it aligns with the values I hold dear—faith, perseverance, and service. My journey has been one of faith-driven growth, where I have learned that even in the face of adversity, trusting in God’s plan has led me to overcome challenges and achieve successes that once seemed out of reach. Throughout my life, faith has been my constant source of strength and guidance. Raised in a family that emphasized the importance of a strong spiritual foundation, I learned early on that life is not about avoiding challenges but about how you respond to them. As I navigated the complexities of school, personal struggles, and financial hardships, my faith became a compass, helping me stay focused on my goals and reminding me that I am not alone in my journey. The belief that God has a purpose for me has driven me to push forward, even when the path seemed unclear or daunting. One of the most significant challenges I faced was balancing my academic goals with the financial strain of paying for my education. As a first-generation college student, I lacked the financial resources that many of my peers had, but my faith in God’s provision kept me hopeful. I turned to my church community for support, and their encouragement and prayers fueled my determination to persevere. I have learned to trust in God’s timing and provision, and while the road has not always been easy, I know that each obstacle has been an opportunity for growth. Through faith and hard work, I have been able to overcome these obstacles and achieve triumphs I once thought impossible. Whether excelling in my studies or volunteering in my community, I have seen firsthand how faith and service to others can create lasting change. The desire to make a difference in the lives of others has been a driving force behind my academic and personal growth. I have volunteered in my church’s youth programs, tutored children, and helped organize community outreach events—experiences that have deepened my faith and strengthened my commitment to serving others. Looking ahead, I plan to use my faith as a guiding force in achieving even greater heights. I understand that success is not just about personal achievement but about using my abilities to serve others and contribute to my community. My goal is to pursue a career in nursing, where I can provide compassionate care while reflecting the love and grace that my faith has shown me. I believe that healthcare is an avenue where I can not only make a tangible difference in people’s lives but also witness the power of faith through acts of service and kindness. The Jim Maxwell Memorial Scholarship would provide me with the opportunity to continue my educational journey and reach my goals. It would allow me to focus on my studies and deepen my commitment to service and faith, knowing that I have the financial support to succeed. I am grateful for the chance to apply for this scholarship, and I am determined to honor Jim Maxwell’s legacy of service by using my education and faith to make a positive impact in the world. In closing, my journey has shaped by the unwavering belief that with God by my side, no challenge is insurmountable. This scholarship will help me continue to move forward with faith as my foundation, and I am excited to see where this path will lead me in fulfilling both my academic and personal aspirations.

Balancing Education and Family: A Journey of Determination Being a single parent and a student is a journey that requires resilience, time management, and unwavering dedication. As a mother to a school-aged child, I have experienced firsthand the challenges of balancing parenting responsibilities, financial pressures, and academic ambitions. However, my passion for furthering my education and creating a better future for my child keeps me motivated, even in the face of obstacles. I believe that pursuing my degree is not only an investment in my future but also an example to my child that perseverance and hard work lead to success. Balancing education and family life requires careful planning, discipline, and flexibility. I have developed structured routines to ensure that I can excel in my studies while being fully present as a parent. Time management is essential, so I create daily schedules that allocate time for studying, attending classes, helping my child with schoolwork, and quality family time. I also rely on support systems, including family, friends, and community resources, to help me manage responsibilities when challenges arise. Additionally, I have learned the importance of self-care, recognizing that maintaining my own well-being is essential to being a strong and capable parent and student. While the journey is not easy, I am determined to complete my degree and establish a stable career in nursing. My passion for healthcare stems from my desire to provide for my child while also making a positive impact in my community. By becoming a nurse, I will not only achieve financial stability but also have the opportunity to advocate for better healthcare accessibility and provide compassionate care to those in need. This scholarship would be life-changing, helping to ease the financial burden of tuition, books, and other academic expenses. As a single parent, financial limitations can make it difficult to focus solely on education. This scholarship would allow me to reduce financial stress and dedicate more time to my studies and my child’s well-being. More importantly, receiving this support would serve as a reminder that my efforts are recognized and valued, motivating me to push forward despite challenges. Beyond just financial assistance, this scholarship represents an opportunity to continue setting a strong example for my child. I want to teach them that no matter the obstacles, education is a powerful tool that can open doors and transform lives. By working hard and staying committed to my goals, I hope to inspire my child to dream big, work hard, and never give up on their ambitions. Despite the struggles that come with being a single parent in college, I embrace this journey with determination and gratitude. Every challenge I face strengthens my resolve to build a better future for my child and myself. With the support of this scholarship, I will be one step closer to achieving my degree, securing a fulfilling career in nursing, and providing my child with the opportunities they deserve.

Embracing Challenges: How My Disability Shaped My Beliefs, Relationships, and Career Goals My name is Sharon Cortez, and my journey has been deeply influenced by my experience with ADHD and anxiety, both of which have shaped my beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations. While these challenges have presented obstacles, they have also fueled my ambition, resilience, and passion for healthcare and advocacy. Through perseverance and self-awareness, I have learned to embrace my disability as a strength rather than a limitation, and I strive to use my experiences to make a meaningful impact in my field and community. Growing up, I always had a deep desire to help others, but my struggles with focus, organization, and anxiety made it difficult for me to navigate traditional academic and social settings. I was diagnosed with ADHD while in college, and receiving that diagnosis was both a relief and a challenge. It helped me understand why I had struggled with time management and concentration, but it also made me realize that I needed to advocate for myself and develop strategies to succeed. Instead of letting my disability hold me back, I learned to adapt and push forward, which strengthened my belief in the importance of resilience, inclusivity, and accessibility—values that now drive my personal and professional life. My experience with disability has also shaped my relationships. Learning to navigate ADHD and anxiety made me more empathetic and understanding toward others who face challenges, whether visible or invisible. I have developed strong communication skills and deep appreciation for the importance of support systems, both personally and professionally. My struggles taught me the value of patience, flexibility, and mutual encouragement, which I apply not only in my relationships but also in my work and leadership roles. As someone pursuing a career in nursing, my experiences with ADHD and anxiety have made me passionate about mental health advocacy and patient care. I understand firsthand how frustrating it can be to feel misunderstood or dismissed due to a condition that affects daily life. This perspective has motivated me to work toward a healthcare system that is more inclusive, compassionate, and patient-centered. I aspire to be a nurse who not only provides medical care but also empowers and supports patients dealing with disabilities or mental health challenges. Beyond my academic and career goals, I have actively sought leadership opportunities that allow me to advocate for others facing similar struggles. Whether through volunteering in healthcare settings, mentoring peers, or participating in initiatives that promote mental health awareness and disability rights, I am committed to using my voice and experiences to create positive change. My leadership has been driven by the belief that everyone deserves equal opportunities and support, no matter their challenges. Receiving this scholarship would not only alleviate the financial burden of my education but also further empower me to pursue my mission of improving healthcare accessibility and advocating for individuals with disabilities. My journey with ADHD and anxiety has reinforced my belief that adversity can be turned into strength, and I am committed to using my education, leadership, and personal experiences to make a lasting impact in my field and beyond. Ultimately, my disability has shaped me into a more compassionate, determined, and driven individual. It has influenced my relationships by making me more understanding, strengthened my career aspirations by inspiring me to advocate for inclusive healthcare, and reinforced my belief that everyone—regardless of their challenges—deserves to be seen, heard, and supported. With the right mindset and perseverance, I know that I can turn my struggles into a source of empowerment and change, both for myself and for others.

Balancing Mental Health and Academic Success My journey through college has been shaped by my experiences with ADHD and anxiety, both of which have had a profound impact on my academic performance and personal life. When I was diagnosed with ADHD in college, it helped me understand why I often struggled with focus, time management, and staying organized despite my best efforts. My anxiety, on the other hand, added another layer of challenges, making it difficult to manage stress, stay confident in my abilities, and maintain a sense of balance between my education and personal well-being. Academically, ADHD has made it challenging for me to concentrate during lectures, retain information from long readings, and complete assignments on time. I have often found myself procrastinating or hyper-focusing on one task while neglecting others, leading to frustration and self-doubt. My anxiety exacerbates these struggles by causing me to overthink assignments, worry excessively about grades, and feel overwhelmed by deadlines. However, instead of letting these challenges define me, I have taken proactive steps to prioritize my mental health while striving for academic success. To manage my ADHD, I have developed structured routines that help me stay organized and focused. I use planners, digital calendars, and reminder apps to keep track of assignments, exams, and daily responsibilities. Breaking tasks into smaller, manageable steps has also helped me stay productive without feeling overwhelmed. Additionally, I have sought academic support by utilizing tutoring services, study groups, and campus resources that provide accommodations for students with learning differences. For my anxiety, I have learned the importance of self-care and mindfulness practices. Regular exercise, deep breathing techniques, and journaling help me manage stress and maintain a positive mindset. I also practice setting boundaries by balancing my academic workload with personal time, ensuring that I do not push myself to the point of burnout. Seeking professional counseling has also been instrumental in helping me navigate my emotions and develop coping strategies for moments of high stress. Beyond personal strategies, advocating for my mental health has become a priority for me. I have learned to communicate openly with professors about my challenges, request accommodations when needed, and seek support from my peers. By embracing my ADHD and anxiety rather than viewing them as limitations, I have developed resilience, self-awareness, and a determination to succeed despite the obstacles I face. Receiving this scholarship would provide me with the financial stability to focus more on my education and mental well-being. It would allow me to continue developing strategies for academic success while also advocating for mental health awareness among students. My experiences have taught me that mental health is just as important as academic performance, and I am committed to promoting a culture where students feel empowered to seek help, prioritize self-care, and achieve their goals without sacrificing their well-being. Ultimately, my journey has been one of growth, perseverance, and self-discovery. ADHD and anxiety may present challenges, but they have also shaped me into a stronger, more determined individual. By prioritizing my mental health, I have learned to navigate the demands of college while staying true to my goals. Through resilience and self-care, I am proving that success is not defined by the absence of struggles, but by the willingness to overcome them.

Pursuing a Career in Healthcare: A Commitment to Service My name is Sharon Cortez, and I am deeply passionate about pursuing a career in nursing because I believe in the power of compassionate, patient-centered care to transform lives. From an early age, I have been drawn to the medical field, inspired by a strong desire to help others and make a meaningful impact on my community. Through my education, hands-on experience, and volunteer work, I have developed a deep appreciation for the importance of accessible, high-quality healthcare, and I am committed to using my skills to serve those in need. I chose nursing because it is a profession that allows me to directly improve the well-being of others. My interest in healthcare grew as I witnessed the dedication of medical professionals who provided care and support to patients facing physical and emotional challenges. Seeing how they not only treated illnesses but also uplifted their patients reinforced my belief that healthcare is more than just a career—it is a calling. Nurses play a critical role in patient advocacy, education, and holistic care, and I am excited to become part of this noble profession. My experience in the medical field has solidified my commitment to this path. I, Sharon Cortez, have obtained certifications in phlebotomy, EKG, and medical assisting, which have given me valuable clinical skills and exposure to patient care. Additionally, my volunteer work in healthcare settings has allowed me to see firsthand the disparities in medical access, particularly among underserved populations. This has driven me to seek ways to make healthcare more inclusive and accessible, whether through mobile health services, community outreach, or patient education initiatives. Pursuing a career in nursing is both a personal and professional mission for me. I am particularly passionate about ensuring that patients receive care that respects their dignity and individual needs. Whether working with elderly patients, individuals with disabilities, or those recovering from injuries, I want to be an advocate and a source of support for those navigating the healthcare system. My ultimate goal is to contribute to a field that not only heals but empowers patients to live fuller, healthier lives. Receiving the Christina Taylese Singh Memorial Scholarship would be an incredible honor, as Christina’s dedication to healthcare resonates deeply with my own aspirations. This scholarship would help alleviate the financial burden of my education, allowing me to focus on my studies and clinical training with greater determination. More importantly, it would serve as a reminder of the impact that one person’s passion for healthcare can have on the world, motivating me to carry forward Christina’s legacy of compassion, service, and dedication. I, Sharon Cortez, am committed to using my education to make a lasting difference in the nursing field, ensuring that every patient I encounter receives the care, respect, and support they deserve. With the support of this scholarship, I will continue working toward my goal of becoming a skilled and compassionate nurse who embodies the values of service and advocacy that Christina exemplified.

Addressing Healthcare Inequality Through Mobile Health Services One of the most pressing social issues today is healthcare inequality. Many individuals, particularly those in low-income and underserved communities, lack access to basic medical care due to financial, geographic, and systemic barriers. As someone pursuing a career in the healthcare field, I am deeply committed to addressing this issue by advocating for and providing mobile health services that bring essential care directly to those who need it most. Healthcare should not be a privilege reserved for those who can afford it—it is a fundamental human right. However, many people struggle to receive necessary medical attention due to transportation issues, lack of insurance, or the inability to take time off work. To combat this, I have dedicated my efforts to making healthcare more accessible by supporting mobile medical services that offer phlebotomy, EKG testing, and other diagnostic procedures outside of traditional clinical settings. Through my training and certifications, I have gained hands-on experience in patient care, and I am actively working to expand my reach to populations that often fall through the cracks of the healthcare system. In addition to direct patient care, I advocate for healthcare equity by educating communities about preventive care and available medical resources. Many individuals avoid seeking medical help simply because they are unaware of affordable options or fear overwhelming medical bills. By volunteering with organizations that provide health education and screenings, I work to bridge this knowledge gap, empowering individuals to take control of their health before minor issues become serious conditions. Beyond my current efforts, I plan to continue addressing healthcare inequality by expanding mobile health services and advocating for policies that prioritize accessible healthcare for all. My long-term goal is to establish a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing free or low-cost medical services to underserved communities. This initiative would not only improve health outcomes but also reduce the burden on emergency rooms, which often serve as the only healthcare option for those without access to routine medical care. Receiving the Jeannine Schroeder Women in Public Service Memorial Scholarship would allow me to further my education and expand my ability to serve these communities. With financial support, I can focus on advancing my medical training and developing the skills necessary to implement sustainable solutions for healthcare accessibility. More importantly, this scholarship would affirm my commitment to public service and my mission to create a more equitable healthcare system. Jeannine Schroeder’s legacy of advocacy and service is an inspiration, and I am honored to continue her mission of making the world a better place. Through my dedication to addressing healthcare inequality, I strive to ensure that every individual—regardless of their background—has access to the medical care they need and deserve.

A Calling to Serve: My Inspiration for a Career in the Medical Field From a young age, I have been drawn to the medical field, inspired by a deep desire to help others and make a meaningful impact on people’s lives. My passion for healthcare stems from both personal experiences and a strong sense of purpose in serving those in need. Seeing loved ones struggle with medical conditions and witnessing the compassionate care provided by healthcare professionals ignited a drive within me to pursue a career where I could offer the same level of support and healing to others. One pivotal moment that reinforced my decision was witnessing the dedication of healthcare workers during a family member’s hospitalization. The nurses and medical staff not only provided exceptional medical care but also demonstrated empathy, patience, and encouragement during a difficult time. Their ability to comfort and uplift both the patient and our family made me realize that medicine is not just about treatment—it is about connection, compassion, and advocacy. That experience solidified my goal to pursue a career in the medical field, where I could combine my passion for science with my commitment to serving others. I plan to make a difference in healthcare by providing quality, patient-centered care that prioritizes dignity and respect. My focus is on ensuring that every individual, regardless of their background or circumstances, has access to the medical attention they need. I am particularly passionate about mobile healthcare services, as I recognize the barriers many individuals face in accessing traditional healthcare settings. Through my career, I aspire to bridge this gap by bringing essential medical services directly to underserved communities, ensuring that no one is left behind due to financial, geographical, or social obstacles. Beyond direct patient care, I also hope to contribute to the medical field through advocacy and education. Raising awareness about preventive care, health literacy, and patient rights is essential in empowering individuals to take charge of their well-being. By educating patients and communities, I aim to promote healthier lifestyles and reduce the prevalence of preventable diseases. Additionally, I intend to mentor and support aspiring healthcare professionals, encouraging them to pursue their goals with the same passion and dedication that inspired me. Receiving this scholarship would alleviate the financial burden of my education and allow me to fully focus on developing the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the medical field. The support would provide me with the opportunity to engage in hands-on training, participate in outreach programs, and further my understanding of innovative medical practices. More importantly, it would enable me to pursue my career with greater determination, knowing that I have the resources to make a real difference in people’s lives. Ultimately, my goal is to be more than just a healthcare professional—I want to be an advocate, a healer, and a source of comfort for those in need. Through my career, I hope to embody the values of compassion, integrity, and service, ensuring that every patient I encounter feels heard, valued, and cared for. My journey in the medical field is not just a career path; it is a calling, and I am committed to making a lasting impact through my work.

Living Out My Faith: A Commitment to Life and Service Faith is not just a belief I hold; it is the foundation of how I live my life each day. As a follower of Christ, I strive to reflect His love, compassion, and truth in everything I do, including my commitment to protecting the sanctity of life. My pro-life stance is deeply rooted in my faith, as I believe that all life is a gift from God, created with purpose and deserving of dignity and protection. This belief shapes my daily actions, the way I interact with others, and the career path I am pursuing. I actively live out my faith by advocating for the protection of life in various ways. I participate in community outreach programs that support expectant mothers facing unplanned pregnancies, offering encouragement and connecting them with resources that affirm their choice for life. Additionally, I engage in conversations with peers about the value of every human life, sharing my beliefs with grace and understanding. I also support pro-life organizations through volunteer work and prayer, knowing that a culture of life begins with education, compassion, and action. These efforts are not just about changing minds but about changing hearts and ensuring that every life, from conception to natural death, is cherished and protected. My faith has been the guiding force behind my future goals and career aspirations. I have chosen to pursue a career in the healthcare field because I see it as a direct way to serve and protect life at all stages. Whether working with mothers and infants, caring for the elderly, or advocating for ethical medical practices, I want my work to align with my values and stand as a testament to my faith. God calls us to be defenders of the vulnerable, and I believe that through my profession, I can be a voice for those who cannot speak for themselves. Through my education, I plan to enact change by promoting life-affirming medical practices and supporting policies that respect the dignity of all human beings. I intend to use my knowledge and skills to provide compassionate, ethical care, ensuring that every patient receives treatment rooted in respect and love. Additionally, I want to mentor and educate future professionals, inspiring them to uphold the same commitment to life and integrity in their work. My goal is to contribute to a healthcare system that values life at every stage and upholds the moral principles that protect it. Receiving this scholarship would provide me with the financial support necessary to focus on my education and further my ability to serve others. It would enable me to develop the skills and expertise needed to make a meaningful impact in my field while staying true to my faith and values. More than just financial assistance, this scholarship would serve as an affirmation of my commitment to honoring life and using my God-given abilities to create a culture that respects and protects all human life. Ultimately, I am dedicated to living out my faith not just in words, but in action. Whether through my career, my advocacy, or my everyday interactions, I will continue to stand for the sanctity of life and work toward a world that recognizes the inherent value of every person.

Engineering with Purpose: Serving Christ Through Innovation From a young age, I have been fascinated by how things work, constantly taking apart household objects to understand their mechanics. This natural curiosity led me to develop a deep passion for engineering, a field where creativity meets problem-solving to improve lives. However, my decision to pursue a degree in engineering is not solely driven by intellectual curiosity—it is also rooted in my desire to serve others and glorify Christ through my work. Engineering provides a unique opportunity to create solutions that address real-world challenges, from developing sustainable infrastructure to designing medical devices that enhance patient care. I believe that as a Christian, my calling is to use my skills for the greater good, ensuring that my work benefits not just individuals but entire communities. Whether by improving access to clean water, advancing renewable energy solutions, or designing safer transportation systems, my goal is to integrate faith and service into my engineering career. My faith teaches me that every profession is an opportunity to reflect Christ’s love, and I see engineering as a way to demonstrate compassion, integrity, and excellence in all that I do. My relationship with Christ is central to my life, and my involvement with my church has played a crucial role in strengthening my faith. I actively participate in church ministries, volunteering in outreach programs, mentoring younger members, and assisting with community service projects. These experiences have reinforced the importance of servant leadership and have shaped my perspective on how I can use my career to make a meaningful impact. As I enter new stages of life, I plan to maintain my relationship with Christ by staying engaged in a local church, seeking fellowship with other believers, and ensuring that my work aligns with my faith-based values. I am committed to continual spiritual growth, leaning on prayer, scripture, and community to navigate challenges and remain steadfast in my purpose. Receiving this scholarship would significantly alleviate the financial burden of my education, allowing me to focus more on my studies and less on financial stress. Engineering is a demanding field, requiring intense focus and dedication. With this support, I can fully commit to my academic journey, participate in research opportunities, and develop the skills necessary to make a lasting impact. Additionally, this scholarship would serve as a testament to God’s provision, reinforcing my belief that He equips those He calls to serve. Ultimately, my goal is to use my engineering expertise to uplift communities, provide innovative solutions to global challenges, and serve as a witness for Christ in the professional world. I am excited about the journey ahead, knowing that my faith and passion for engineering will guide me toward a career that not only advances technology but also brings hope and positive change to others.

Exemplifying Hunger in My Healthcare Journey Throughout my academic and clinical journey, I have consistently demonstrated a strong work ethic and an insatiable hunger for growth and excellence. One particular experience that stands out occurred during my training as a phlebotomist, where I exceeded expectations by taking initiative and going beyond my assigned responsibilities. During my clinical rotations, I was placed in a high-volume outpatient lab where patients relied on timely and accurate blood draws for critical diagnoses. While my primary role was to collect blood samples, I quickly noticed that many patients, particularly elderly individuals and those with anxiety about needles, required additional reassurance and care. Instead of simply focusing on the technical aspects of drawing blood, I took the extra step to engage with each patient, explain the procedure in a calming manner, and ensure they felt comfortable. One day, an elderly patient with a history of fainting during blood draws arrived visibly anxious. The lead phlebotomist was busy, and other staff members were rushing through their tasks. Recognizing the need for extra attention, I took it upon myself to guide the patient through deep-breathing exercises, adjusted the chair for better comfort, and continuously checked in with her throughout the procedure. Because of my patience and reassurance, she completed the blood draw without incident, later expressing her gratitude for the compassionate care she received. My hunger for learning and improvement also drove me to seek additional responsibilities beyond my assigned duties. I proactively asked my supervisors for feedback, practiced my technique during downtime, and even assisted in organizing supplies to improve workflow efficiency. This eagerness to contribute did not go unnoticed—my supervisor commended me for my initiative, and I was entrusted with training newer students on patient-centered techniques. The impact of my actions extended beyond just one patient. By fostering a more patient-centered approach, I helped create a more positive and supportive environment for both patients and staff. My willingness to take extra steps inspired my colleagues to be more attentive to patient comfort, leading to an overall improvement in patient satisfaction scores in our department. This experience reinforced my belief that being hungry for knowledge, growth, and excellence is essential in the healthcare field. My drive to exceed expectations has not only allowed me to develop strong technical skills but also shaped me into a compassionate and proactive professional. As I continue my education, I remain committed to this pillar, striving to push myself beyond limits, take initiative, and make a lasting impact in the field of healthcare.

My name is Sharon Cortez, and I am currently a sophomore at Broward College-Downtown Center, majoring in Nursing. I have always been drawn to the healthcare field because of my desire to help people and make a difference in their lives. Ever since I was young, I have admired the dedication and compassion that healthcare professionals show every day. Watching nurses and doctors care for patients with kindness and expertise inspired me to pursue a career in nursing. Choosing to study nursing was not just a decision based on admiration, but also a personal calling. I believe that nursing is a profession where I can truly make a positive impact, not only by providing medical care but also by offering emotional support and understanding to patients and their families. As a nurse, I want to be someone who patients can rely on during their most vulnerable moments. I want to be there to listen, to comfort, and to advocate for their needs. As a woman in the healthcare field, I hope to contribute to a more inclusive and supportive environment for both patients and healthcare workers. Women have always played a significant role in healthcare, and I am proud to be part of that legacy. However, I also recognize the challenges that women face in this field, such as balancing work and family life, and sometimes facing gender biases. I am determined to overcome these challenges and to be a role model for other women who aspire to join the healthcare profession. I believe that my perspective as a woman can bring unique strengths to the field of nursing. Women often bring empathy, communication skills, and a nurturing approach to patient care, which are essential qualities in healthcare. By embracing these strengths, I hope to build strong relationships with my patients and provide holistic care that addresses not just their physical needs, but also their emotional and mental well-being. In the future, I also hope to advocate for better healthcare policies that support women and families. I want to be involved in initiatives that promote health education and preventive care, especially for underserved communities. By doing so, I aim to help reduce health disparities and ensure that everyone has access to quality healthcare. Furthermore, I am committed to lifelong learning and professional growth. I plan to continue my education and stay updated with the latest advancements in healthcare to provide the best possible care for my patients. I also hope to mentor future generations of nurses, sharing my experiences and encouraging them to pursue their dreams in healthcare. In conclusion, I have chosen to pursue a degree in healthcare because I am passionate about helping others and making a positive impact in their lives. As a woman in the healthcare field, I am committed to providing compassionate care, advocating for patients, and supporting my fellow healthcare professionals. I am excited about the journey ahead and the opportunity to contribute to the well-being of individuals and communities.