"The good for man is an activity of the soul in accordance with virtue, in a complete life. For just as a builder or a sculptor realizes his good in his work, so man realizes his good in the exercise of virtue, performing actions in accordance with reason." -Aristotle, Nicomachean Ethics, Book I Aristotle’s claim that “the good for man is an activity of the soul in accordance with virtue, in a complete life” asserts a thesis that challenges simplistic notions of human happiness: true human flourishing is an active engagement in virtuous living, guided by reason, rather than a passive acquisition of pleasure or external rewards. From the outset, Aristotle positions the human being as a rational and moral agent whose fulfillment is inseparable from deliberate, ethical activity. The underlying argument is that virtue is not theoretical it is realized through consistent action that harmonizes intellect and character over the course of a life. This conception reframes the human good from an outcome-oriented idea to a process oriented practice, emphasizing that the moral quality of action itself constitutes human excellence. The analogy of the builder or sculptor illuminates the nature of this activity. Aristotle deliberately invokes craftsmen to illustrate that potential is inert without exercise. A sculptor’s marble does not reveal its form spontaneously; it requires intentionality, skill, and sustained effort. Similarly, the human soul does not automatically achieve goodness; reason and virtue must be cultivated, embodied, and enacted. The emphasis on activity, rather than end results, signifies that the ethical life is not contingent upon fortune or circumstance but depends upon the disciplined exercise of one’s faculties. Virtue, therefore, is inseparable from the habitual, conscious engagement of the rational mind with moral decision-making. Aristotle’s insight is that human potential is actualized in the repeated practice of morally guided actions, which shapes character over time. Crucially, Aristotle’s concept of virtue integrates the intellectual and moral dimensions of life. To act virtuously is to align desire, emotion, and reason in a coherent structure that reflects ethical deliberation. Courage, for example, is not merely the absence of fear but the reasoned regulation of fear in service of a just goal. Temperance requires the harmonization of desire and rational judgment. Virtue, in Aristotle’s framework, is a structural principle of the soul, where ethical excellence emerges from the equilibrium between rational thought and human passion. The human good, then, is not abstract or contingent; it is realized in the soul’s activity when reason informs and directs action consistently. Aristotle’s insistence on a “complete life” underscores the temporal dimension of ethical development. Virtue cannot be understood or embodied in isolated moments; it manifests through sustained, cumulative practice. The moral life is continuous, and the quality of character is judged over the arc of experience rather than by singular achievements. The notion of completeness implies that ethical excellence requires resilience, consistency, and a commitment to lifelong cultivation of moral habits. This principle challenges contemporary interpretations of happiness as immediate gratification, emphasizing instead the formative nature of repeated ethical engagement. The passage also reveals Aristotle’s conception of human fulfillment as relational and purposeful. Just as a builder realizes the potential of raw materials through a coherent design, the individual realizes her potential by actively engaging in virtuous action within a structured moral and rational framework. Flourishing is inherently practical, embedded in the choices and actions through which a person navigates the world. This perspective reframes ethics as an active vocation rather than a theoretical study: to be virtuous is to enact reason-guided excellence in concrete contexts, shaping both self and environment through deliberate engagement. From a philosophical standpoint, Aristotle’s assertion bridges metaphysics and ethics. The human soul possesses an inherent function rational activity and ethical virtue is the mode through which that function is perfected. By emphasizing activity in accordance with virtue, Aristotle conveys that morality is not external or imposed but intrinsic to the realization of human nature. Flourishing is thus both teleological and immanent: it presupposes purpose while requiring constant enactment. Human goodness is neither contingent on fortune nor reducible to utility; it exists as the exercise of reasoned excellence over the course of a life deliberately structured toward ethical ends. The implications of this passage extend beyond abstract philosophy into practical life. Modern disciplines, such as nursing, education, or public service, exemplify Aristotle’s thesis: the quality of a practitioner’s engagement the habitual alignment of skill, judgment, and ethical commitment determines the good realized in both self and others. A nurse, for instance, embodies virtue not merely by administering treatments but by consistently exercising empathy, patience, and judgment in alignment with rational and ethical understanding. The Aristotelian good emerges in repeated, conscious actions that integrate knowledge, skill, and character, producing flourishing for both the agent and those they serve. In conclusion, Aristotle’s paragraph articulates a vision of human excellence rooted in sustained, reason guided activity. The good life is not a static attainment, an accumulation of pleasure, or a series of external successes; it is a dynamic process in which virtue is exercised consistently, shaping character and aligning action with rational principles. The analogy of the builder or sculptor emphasizes the active, deliberate, and skilled nature of ethical practice, while the insistence on a complete life situates virtue within the temporal arc of human existence. By presenting morality as both formative and actualized through action, Aristotle challenges any notion of passive or incidental flourishing. Human goodness, in this framework, is inseparable from the deliberate practice of ethical activity, integrating intellect, emotion, and habit into a coherent, purposeful life. Aristotle’s insight remains profoundly relevant: it is in the disciplined, reasoned, and virtuous engagement with life that humans realize their highest potential.

My name is Siaris S. Rodriguez Acosta, and I am a 24-year-old nursing student from Puerto Rico. I have always been drawn to helping others, particularly those who face challenges that make accessing care or support difficult. Growing up in my community, I saw firsthand how families struggled to navigate healthcare systems, especially for individuals with special needs or chronic conditions. These experiences inspired me to pursue nursing, and ultimately, my dream is to become a midwife who not only provides medical care but also empowers patients through education, advocacy, and compassionate support. Throughout my journey, I have sought opportunities to work with individuals with special needs. Volunteering at local programs and community centers has allowed me to interact directly with people who face developmental, physical, or cognitive challenges. Through these experiences, I have learned the importance of patience, active listening, and empathy. I’ve seen how small acts like spending quality time, assisting with daily activities, or providing reassurance can have a profound impact on someone’s confidence and well-being. These experiences reinforced my belief that healthcare extends beyond clinical skills; it requires a deep commitment to understanding each person’s unique circumstances and providing care tailored to their needs. My goal as a nurse and future midwife is to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals with special needs and their families. I plan to advocate for their rights to receive quality care, ensure that they are included in decisions about their health, and provide guidance that helps them live with dignity, independence, and confidence. I want to help families navigate healthcare systems, access resources, and feel supported rather than overwhelmed. By combining clinical knowledge with compassion, advocacy, and cultural sensitivity, I aim to be a healthcare provider who not only addresses medical needs but also uplifts and empowers those I serve. Financially, I face significant challenges in pursuing my education. Coming from a low income background in Puerto Rico, I have had to balance work, school, and personal responsibilities while covering tuition and living expenses. These circumstances have required creativity, perseverance, and resourcefulness, and they have strengthened my determination to succeed and use my education to make a lasting difference in the lives of others. In summary, my journey has been shaped by my dedication to helping others, my volunteer experiences with individuals with special needs, and my personal commitment to overcoming obstacles. I am motivated by a desire to provide care that is compassionate, patient-centered, and empowering. With the support of this scholarship, I can continue my education and grow as a nurse and midwife, preparing to make a meaningful and lasting impact in the lives of those who need it most.

A time when I truly relied on my faith was during one of the most challenging seasons of my life an experience that tested my heart, mind, and spirit in ways I had never imagined. My brother was experiencing a severe psychiatric breakdown, my family was not present, and I was alone in the middle of multiple crises: I was unemployed, preparing for my final semester exams, and about to take the test to obtain my ASN nursing license. On top of that, I suffered a miscarriage of a baby I had longed for deeply. My husband was unable to be with me because of immigration restrictions, and I faced this pain alone in the hospital, knowing I had to remain strong for my brother, my elderly grandparents, and myself. The miscarriage occurred the day before Thanksgiving, a time when I had expected joy and celebration, and I was filled with anger, grief, and disbelief. No one knew about my pregnancy except my husband and me, and I felt the weight of concealing my sorrow while navigating everything else in my life. I remember thinking, “How am I going to make it through this? How can I hold it together for everyone who needs me?” In that moment, it was my faith in God that became my anchor. I turned to prayer, trusting in His presence and guidance, and I felt a peace and strength that I could not have summoned on my own. Through God’s grace, I found the wisdom and calm I needed to face each obstacle. I was able to focus on my final tests, keeping my mind clear despite the heartbreak I carried. I attended Thanksgiving dinner, masking my pain so no one would notice my red and swollen eyes, and I felt a quiet sense of hope that God was sustaining me even when I felt utterly alone. By His grace, I passed my final semester, successfully obtained my ASN license, and was able to care for my brother during his psychiatric crisis. These achievements might have seemed impossible in the midst of so much loss and chaos, yet through faith, I found the strength to persevere and the courage to continue serving those who depended on me. This experience taught me that faith is not just comfort in the easy moments it is the lifeline that sustains us through unimaginable trials. It reminded me that God works in ways we cannot always understand, giving us peace, wisdom, and resilience when circumstances seem unbearable. I rely on this faith daily, both personally and professionally, to guide me in my career as a nurse. My ability to remain calm under pressure, offer compassionate care, and approach every challenge with patience and empathy comes from the understanding that God equips me for what I am called to do. Looking back, I can see clearly that only God’s presence could have carried me through that time. He allowed me to grieve, to serve, and to achieve milestones despite circumstances that seemed overwhelming. That season of my life strengthened my faith, deepened my resilience, and reaffirmed my commitment to caring for others with both skill and heart. It is a reminder that even in the darkest moments, God’s light and guidance can lead us to hope, healing, and strength beyond what we can imagine.

Growing up in Puerto Rico, I witnessed firsthand how limited access to healthcare profoundly affects families, especially those with few financial resources. I watched women I cared about navigate pregnancy and childbirth without the guidance, support, or education they deserved. Many faced fear, uncertainty, and complications that could have been mitigated with proper care and attention. These experiences left a lasting impression on me and sparked my deep desire to become a midwife a healthcare provider who can empower women, advocate for their choices, and provide compassionate, informed care during one of life’s most transformative experiences. I realized early on that midwifery is not just a profession; it is a calling to support, educate, and uplift women when they need it most. Being a 24 year old nursing student from a low-income background has brought its own set of challenges. Balancing school, work, and personal responsibilities has tested my resilience, time management, and determination. Financial limitations have forced me to seek creative solutions to continue my education, and pursuing opportunities outside my home has required adaptability and courage. Yet, these obstacles have also strengthened qualities that I now recognize as essential for a healthcare provider: empathy, perseverance, and creativity. I have learned to approach difficult situations with patience, to advocate for myself and others, and to find hope in the face of uncertainty. Most importantly, I understand firsthand what it feels like to face barriers to care and education, and I carry that understanding into my vision for healthcare: no patient should ever feel overlooked or unsupported simply because of circumstances beyond their control. These personal challenges have shaped not only my decision to pursue midwifery but also how I plan to make a meaningful impact in healthcare. I aim to provide care that is both clinically sound and deeply human, combining medical guidance with education, advocacy, and emotional support. My experiences have taught me to listen actively, approach each patient without judgment, and recognize the whole person behind the medical condition. In midwifery, this translates to helping women feel empowered during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum care. I hope to ensure that every patient has the knowledge, confidence, and resources to make informed choices about their health and well being, regardless of their background or financial situation. Ultimately, my journey has shown me that challenges can be transformative. They have fueled my determination to become a midwife and to serve my community in a way that is both meaningful and compassionate. My personal experiences allow me to connect with patients on a deeper level, especially those who face obstacles similar to those I have overcome. I aspire to be a healthcare provider who not only addresses medical needs but also uplifts, educates, and empowers individuals to take control of their health. For me, midwifery represents the opportunity to turn challenges into opportunities for care, understanding, and hope helping women experience pregnancy and childbirth as moments of empowerment rather than fear or uncertainty.

My faith has been the foundation of my life since I was born. Growing up in Puerto Rico, I learned to trust in God’s guidance and provision, even when circumstances felt uncertain or overwhelming. As a young woman from a low-income family, I often faced challenges that felt bigger than myself financial limitations, the pressure to support my family, and the struggle to pursue my passions. In those moments, prayer, scripture, and trust in God’s plan have given me strength, patience, and perseverance. My faith reminds me that my value is not determined by my struggles or what I lack, but by who I am as God’s child and the gifts He has entrusted to me. Crochet has been more than just a hobby for me it is a creative expression of the patience, care, and attention to detail that God has cultivated in me. Each piece I make reflects hours of focus, dedication, and love, and I see my craft as a way to glorify God by using the talents He has given me. Even in moments of doubt when a pattern doesn’t turn out as planned or I worry about selling my work my faith reassures me that persistence and trust in His timing will lead to growth and opportunity. Looking toward my career, I believe my faith will continue to guide me in meaningful ways. It equips me with qualities that are essential for success: discipline, resilience, and humility. In any career, challenges and setbacks are inevitable, but my trust in God reminds me to keep moving forward with integrity and hope. I also see faith as a source of empathy and compassion, which allows me to connect with people sincerely, whether I am collaborating with clients, mentoring other artisans, or contributing to my community. Ultimately, my faith is not just a personal comfort it is a compass that shapes how I approach my career and life choices. It reminds me to honor God through my work, to treat others with kindness, and to approach every obstacle as an opportunity to grow spiritually and professionally. By keeping God at the center of my life, I am confident that I can navigate challenges, cultivate my talents, and build a career that reflects both my skills and my values. My faith gives me hope, purpose, and courage, and I trust that it will continue to guide me as I pursue my dreams and make a positive impact in the lives of others through my work.

Principal: Johamiliz and Edwin Secondary: William and Christian Tittle: 3 man, One pathway... Challenge Mechanics: Round 1 – The Confession Circle: All contestants enter the Heart Zone. Johamiliz must openly share her feelings about each guy—what excites her, what confuses her, and where her heart truly leans. Each guy then responds with how they feel and whether they’re willing to fight for her. Tense Moment: William and Christian express frustration at her indecision, creating drama and tears. Edwin tries to stay calm but you can feel the tension simmering. Round 2 – Temptation Twist: Johamiliz is sent to the Flirt Zone, where she interacts with potential new connections (decoys brought in by producers). The guys are secretly watching via cameras and must predict whether she will flirt or stay loyal. Tense Moment: Edwin’s ex (a surprise cameo) sends him a cryptic warning message. Allegedly she’s filed a restriction order, making Edwin nervous and tense—he can’t openly confront Johamiliz about some private conversations without legal risk, adding high stakes to their interactions. Round 3 – The Decision Duel: Johamiliz must make her choice in the Secret Zone, writing down who she truly wants. Each guy is then brought in one by one, and they must perform a “pledge of commitment” to her. This can include writing a heartfelt note, reciting why they love her, or completing a small daring task (like jumping off a mini-platform into a pool blindfolded) to prove their courage and dedication. Tense Moment: William and Christian struggle to accept the decision, resulting in heated arguments and emotional confrontations. Final Reveal: Johamiliz announces her final choice in front of everyone. In this scenario, she chooses Edwin. The villa erupts with applause, cheers, and tears—some from relief, others from heartbreak. Edwin steps forward, nervous about the ex’s restriction order situation, but Johamiliz reassures him. They embrace, signaling the start of a committed relationship.

I am a fan of Wicked because it goes beyond being a musical it tells a story about identity, choice, and the power of perspective. From the moment I first saw it, I was captivated by how it reimagines the world of The Wizard of Oz through the eyes of Elphaba, the so-called “Wicked Witch.” Her journey of being misunderstood, judged, and underestimated resonated deeply with me, especially as someone navigating challenges in my own life. Like Elphaba, I have often felt that the world sees only part of who I am, or defines me by circumstances beyond my control. Wicked reminded me that our worth is not determined by others’ opinions, but by our actions, values, and courage to stay true to ourselves. The music and storytelling also inspired me in ways I didn’t expect. Songs like “Defying Gravity” and “For Good” aren’t just emotionally powerful they are a call to perseverance, self-discovery, and meaningful connection. “Defying Gravity,” in particular, has been a personal anthem for me as I pursue my dreams in nursing and midwifery. Balancing school, financial challenges, and the pursuit of a career that is not offered in Puerto Rico can feel daunting, but Elphaba’s determination reminds me that sometimes you have to rise above fear and societal expectations to follow your true path. Another reason I love Wicked is its celebration of complexity in people. Glinda and Elphaba are both strong, flawed, and evolving characters, and their friendship shows that relationships can be layered, challenging, and transformative at the same time. This theme resonates with my own life as I navigate relationships, mentorship, and teamwork in healthcare. Wicked has taught me the importance of empathy, understanding, and supporting others even when perspectives differ. Ultimately, I am a fan of Wicked because it is both a story and a life lesson. It inspires resilience, authenticity, and courage, and it reminds me to embrace my own journey even when it feels difficult or unconventional. For me, Wicked isn’t just entertainment it’s a source of inspiration and reassurance that it’s okay to be different, to face obstacles, and to rise above them while staying true to who I am.

I have been a fan of Sabrina Carpenter for several years, and her career has had a meaningful impact on me, both personally and as someone pursuing a career in healthcare. What first drew me to Sabrina was her authenticity. From her early days as a young actress and singer to her current work as a multifaceted artist, she has consistently remained true to herself while growing and evolving in the public eye. Her music, performances, and public persona reflect a combination of vulnerability, resilience, and ambition that I find both inspiring and relatable. Sabrina’s willingness to explore difficult emotions in her music has taught me the importance of expressing one’s feelings honestly. Songs like “Sue Me” and “Skin” demonstrate a confidence and self-awareness that resonate deeply with me. They remind me that it’s okay to assert yourself, to acknowledge challenges, and to embrace who you are, even when it feels like the world is watching. As a 24 year old nursing student from Puerto Rico, I face daily challenges in balancing work, school, and my dreams of becoming a midwife. Sabrina’s example encourages me to persevere, to trust my own voice, and to keep moving forward despite obstacles. Her courage in expressing herself artistically inspires me to approach my goals with the same honesty and determination. Beyond her artistry, Sabrina Carpenter’s career is a model of growth and versatility. She has seamlessly navigated acting, singing, and songwriting, showing that success doesn’t have to be confined to one path. This aspect of her career resonates with me because it mirrors the path I am on in healthcare: learning, adapting, and acquiring new skills to serve others in the best way possible. Just as Sabrina has pushed herself to expand her craft, I push myself academically and professionally to prepare for a career where I can make a meaningful impact on patients’ lives. Her commitment to excellence, even in the face of challenges, has taught me the value of resilience, continuous learning, and embracing opportunities for growth. Sabrina’s openness about her own struggles with identity, confidence, and public scrutiny has also influenced the way I view empathy and connection. In healthcare, being able to relate to patients’ experiences and provide compassionate support is essential. Seeing an artist I admire navigate her own vulnerabilities with grace has reinforced my belief that acknowledging challenges both our own and those of others is a strength, not a weakness. This lesson has strengthened my dedication to treating patients holistically, considering not only their physical needs but also their emotional well being. Ultimately, I am a fan of Sabrina Carpenter not just because of her talent, but because of what she represents: authenticity, resilience, and growth. Her career has inspired me to remain true to myself, to persevere through challenges, and to embrace opportunities for learning and self-expression. These lessons extend far beyond music and performance they inform the way I approach my studies, my career, and my interactions with others. In a world that often feels overwhelming, Sabrina’s example is a reminder that success, impact, and fulfillment come not from perfection, but from authenticity, courage, and the willingness to keep moving forward.

When I think about Taylor Swift’s long and storied career, filled with evolution, reinvention, and deeply personal storytelling, the performance that moves me most isn’t the most viral or the most extravagant. It’s her 2018 AMA performance of “You’re On Your Own, Kid.” What makes it so powerful isn’t just the music it’s the emotional vulnerability she brought to the stage, the way she transformed a microphone and spotlight into a space for collective honesty, healing, and connection. From the moment Taylor stepped onto the stage, there was an unmistakable blend of confidence and raw openness in her presence. The performance didn’t rely on elaborate theatrics or special effects. Instead, it stood out because Taylor chose to let the story of the song, and her own journey, take center stage. There was something almost courageous in that an invitation to the audience not merely to watch her, but to feel alongside her. For me, this performance feels deeply moving because it encapsulates something universal about growing up: the tension between vulnerability and resilience. Taylor has spent her career writing about life’s hard moments heartbreak, self‑discovery, loss, and renewal. But in this particular performance, it wasn’t just about storytelling it was about bearing witness to that process with hundreds of millions of people around the world. I didn’t grow up in the spotlight, and I’ve never been a household name, but I absolutely understand what it feels like to navigate change, insecurity, and self‑doubt. As a nursing student from Puerto Rico working toward a dream that sometimes feels just out of reach, I often find myself questioning whether I’m strong enough, capable enough, or worthy of the goals I hold. There’s a moment in the AMA performance when Taylor closes her eyes, leans into the chorus, and the crowd sings back to her not just echoing the words, but feeling them. That mutual connection between artist and audience is what makes live performance sacred. It’s not just the singer on stage it’s the shared experience of knowing you aren’t alone in what you’ve felt or lived through. For me personally, that moment hit hard. It was a reminder that strength and vulnerability aren’t opposites, but companions. Another reason this performance resonates with me is that it reflects growth. Taylor’s career has been marked by reinvention from country roots to global pop star, from heartache albums to reflective ones, from an artist defined by public perception to one defined by artistic agency. In this performance, she wasn’t just singing; she was acknowledging her own journey the mistakes, triumphs, heartbreak, and resilience and inviting the world to witness it with her. There’s a quiet bravery in that openness, and it’s exactly the kind of bravery I strive to cultivate in my own life, both personally and professionally. As someone pursuing a career in healthcare, I’ve learned that the moments that matter most in life aren’t always the grand or glamorous ones. They are the moments of truthwhen someone admits fear, when someone asks for help, when someone dares to hope again after disappointment. I think what makes this performance my favorite isn’t just Taylor’s voice, her stage presence, or even the song itself it’s the intimacy of the moment. It’s the way she chose to stand alone yet connect with millions, to share her story but make space for ours. Watching her that night reminded me that vulnerability is a bridge, not a barrier and that sometimes the most moving performances are the ones that reflect the truth we carry in our own hearts.

Growing up in Puerto Rico, I witnessed how limited access to healthcare affects families, especially those with few financial resources. I saw women I cared about navigate pregnancy and childbirth without the guidance, support, or education they deserved. These experiences sparked my deep desire to become a midwife a healthcare provider who can empower women, advocate for their choices, and provide compassionate care during one of life’s most transformative experiences. Being a 24 year old nursing student from a low-income background has brought its own set of challenges. Financial limitations, the need to balance school and work, and navigating educational opportunities far from my home have tested my resilience and determination. Yet, these obstacles have also strengthened my empathy, perseverance, and creativity. I understand firsthand what it feels like to face barriers to care and education, and I carry that understanding into my vision for healthcare: no patient should feel overlooked or unsupported because of circumstances beyond their control. These personal challenges have shaped not only my decision to pursue midwifery but also how I plan to make a positive impact in healthcare. I aim to provide care that is both clinically sound and deeply human, offering education, advocacy, and emotional support alongside medical guidance. My goal is to become a safe provider for those who not feel seen due to cultural difference. My experiences have taught me to listen actively, approach each patient without judgment, and recognize the whole person behind the medical condition. As a Puerto Rican woman this have been a reality since childhood, we were forgotten in the system. In midwifery, this translates to helping women feel empowered during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum care, ensuring that they have the knowledge and support to make informed decisions. Giving them the peace of mind that there's someone from their own roots that sees her and the struggles that she might be going through as a new mother or as a grieving woman. Ultimately, my journey has shown me that challenges can be transformative. They have fueled my determination to become a midwife and serve my community, and they will guide me in creating meaningful connections with patients, particularly those who face obstacles similar to those I have overcome. I want to be a healthcare provider who not only treats medical needs but also uplifts, educates, and empowers individuals to take charge of their health turning challenges into opportunities for care, understanding, and hope.

I plan to improve the lives of others through healthcare by combining clinical knowledge, compassion, and patient advocacy. Growing up in Puerto Rico, I saw firsthand how limited access to healthcare affects families, especially those with financial constraints. These experiences inspired me to pursue nursing, not only as a career but as a way to serve my community and empower individuals who might otherwise feel overlooked. As a 24 year nursing student from a low income background, I am deeply committed to using my skills to provide care that is both competent and compassionate, recognizing that emotional support is just as vital as medical treatment. For people living with lung disease or rare medical conditions, I envision serving as a guide and advocate throughout their healthcare journey. Patients with chronic or uncommon illnesses often face fear, isolation, or confusion because their conditions are complex and care can be fragmented. I want to help bridge those gaps by offering clear education, personalized care plans, and consistent emotional support, ensuring patients feel heard, respected, and empowered. For example, I would emphasize early detection, adherence to treatment, and lifestyle strategies for lung health, while also connecting patients to specialists and resources for rare conditions. My goal is to help them navigate the healthcare system confidently, giving them a sense of control and hope even during difficult circumstances. Even as I pursue my dream of becoming a midwife, I recognize that the skills I develop in nursing critical thinking, patient assessment, and holistic care are universal. Supporting patients with lung disease or rare conditions requires attention to detail, empathy, and advocacy qualities that are equally important in midwifery. My dream of guiding women through pregnancy and childbirth is rooted in the same desire: to educate, empower, and care for individuals in transformative moments of their lives. By strengthening my skills now, I am preparing to serve patients across a spectrum of needs, ensuring they receive care that addresses both physical and emotional well being. Ultimately, I want to be the kind of healthcare provider who helps patients take an active role in their health while providing guidance, reassurance, and expertise. Whether helping a pregnant woman feel confident in her choices or supporting a patient with a rare lung condition through treatment, I want my career to be defined by service, education, and a commitment to improving quality of life. My own experiences navigating financial limitations and pursuing higher education despite obstacles have strengthened my resilience, determination, and creativity. I carry these qualities with me every day, knowing that they will allow me to make a meaningful impact on the lives of others through healthcare.

From a young age, I have been captivated by the miracle of birth. Growing up in Puerto Rico, I watched the women in my family bring life into the world with resilience, grace, and courage. Their strength inspired me, and I found myself drawn not only to nursing but to the deeper, sacred work of supporting women through pregnancy and childbirth. My “Pie in the Sky” dream is to become a certified midwife—a guide, advocate, and source of comfort for women during one of life’s most transformative experiences. This dream is both inspiring and daunting. In Puerto Rico, midwifery as a formal career is not offered. To pursue this path, I would need to study in the United States or Mexico. The financial and logistical barriers are significant, especially as a 24-year-old nursing student from a low-income background. Yet, despite these obstacles, my desire to bring safe, holistic childbirth care to my community remains unwavering. I envision a future where women in Puerto Rico have access to compassionate, culturally informed midwives who empower them to make choices about their bodies and births. The spark for this dream came during my clinical rotations in nursing school. I witnessed the difference that personalized, attentive care can make for patients—how a simple gesture of understanding or advocacy can ease fear, reduce complications, and foster trust. I realized that midwifery combines my passion for healthcare with my desire to nurture, educate, and empower women. It is not just a career; it is a vocation that aligns my skills with my deepest values. To turn this dream into reality, I know I will need to take deliberate steps. First, I must complete my nursing degree, building a strong foundation in clinical knowledge and patient care. Next, I plan to explore scholarships, grants, and financial aid options to attend a midwifery program in the U.S. or Mexico. I am also committed to gaining hands-on experience in maternal and infant care, volunteering in clinics or community health initiatives to deepen my understanding and skills. Beyond formal education, I aim to stay connected to my Puerto Rican roots, learning from local midwives and traditional practices to ensure that my care is culturally sensitive and accessible. This dream requires courage, perseverance, and creativity. It challenges me to think beyond my current circumstances and to advocate for myself as I navigate financial and logistical barriers. Yet, I believe that every step I take—no matter how small—brings me closer to the possibility of transforming lives through midwifery. My “Pie in the Sky” is not just about achieving a professional title; it is about creating a ripple of care, empowerment, and hope for women in my community. I carry this vision with me every day, fueled by the belief that, even when a dream feels out of reach, passion and persistence can turn it into reality.

What a rollercoaster, well the short answer would be my grandparents. The long answer is a little bit more complicated, I've been a caregiver all my life. Sometimes being a young woman, responsible from other peoples life and care made me realize wanted to be a nurse. This carrer have come to a cost, for me the cost was financial and the quality time with the people I love. Today, I can confidently say that my career goal is to provide care with dignity and compassion. After spending significant time in nursing school and gaining experience in patient care, I have realized that bedside manner and respect for patients sometimes feel lacking in today’s healthcare settings. This awareness has strengthened my commitment to becoming a nurse who prioritizes empathy, human connection, and holistic support. As I continue my professional path, my short-term goal is to specialize in oncology nursing. I plan to complete a minor degree focused on oncology patient care to deepen my knowledge and clinical skills. Cancer care requires not only technical competence but also emotional intelligence, patience, and resilience. I want to be prepared to support patients and families during some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives. In the long term, I aspire to become a Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM). I am passionate about women’s health and the privilege of caring for new life. Supporting mothers during pregnancy, labor, and postpartum recovery represents hope and renewal, which beautifully complements the intensity of oncology care. A deeply personal experience strengthened my calling. Not long ago, a classmate of mine passed away from Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL). He was only 24 years old, full of life and happiness. The disease progressed quickly, and in less than six months, he was gone. Witnessing this loss at such a young age expanded my social awareness and deepened my purpose. I want to provide holistic care where patients feel safe, valued, and comforted, even when their prognosis does not promise recovery. Finally, for me becoming a nurse is more than a job, becoming a nurse for me means having a knowledge and tools to be able to take care of my loved ones. Being a nurse is like having wings to cover my patients with care, love and empathy. Would love to have this grant to complete my colleague degree without the financial stress that being low income bring to my life.

Today, I can confidently say that my career goal is to provide care with dignity and compassion. After spending significant time in nursing school and gaining experience in patient care, I have realized that bedside manner and respect for patients sometimes feel lacking in today’s healthcare settings. This awareness has strengthened my commitment to becoming a nurse who prioritizes empathy, human connection, and holistic support. As I continue my professional path, my short-term goal is to specialize in oncology nursing. I plan to complete a minor degree focused on oncology patient care to deepen my knowledge and clinical skills. Cancer care requires not only technical competence but also emotional intelligence, patience, and resilience. I want to be prepared to support patients and families during some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives. In the long term, I aspire to become a Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM). I am passionate about women’s health and the privilege of caring for new life. Supporting mothers during pregnancy, labor, and postpartum recovery represents hope and renewal, which beautifully complements the intensity of oncology care. A deeply personal experience strengthened my calling. Not long ago, a classmate of mine passed away from Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL). He was only 24 years old, full of life and happiness. The disease progressed quickly, and in less than six months, he was gone. Witnessing this loss at such a young age expanded my social awareness and deepened my purpose. I want to provide holistic care where patients feel safe, valued, and comforted, even when their prognosis does not promise recovery.