A JOURNEY OF PURPOSE, RESILIENCE AND SERVICE I remember that day like it was yesterday. The day I decided that I was going to take a chance on myself and what awaited on the other side if I pushed myself just a little harder. I realized that I had a lot of potential, and I could reap the fruits of my labor, if I acted on that potential. That’s how I ended up in the United States as an international student. Growing up in Kenya, I always wanted a future that involved me changing people’s lives. I previously pursued a degree in International Business Administration, and while working in the business field helped develop my interpersonal skills, I always knew I wanted to work in an industry that involved being of service to people, including in ways that even medicine can’t. I was drawn to healthcare not just for exciting complexities that come with studying sciences, but the fact that I knew this is where I could pursue my dream and fulfill my purpose. Adjusting to a new culture and education system was a challenge, but it strengthened my resilience and encouraged me to commit to my dreams. This transition, while challenging, has greatly shaped my character and reaffirmed my belief that I am made for the healthcare industry. I am currently pursuing my Associate Degree in Nursing while working in my school’s biology lab. Working in the biology lab has been an experience that has greatly improved my understanding of the science field, laboratory techniques, and research methodologies. It has also helped me develop my analytical and problem-solving skills and helped me understand why it is important to pay attention to detail, especially as someone who is going to be taking care of people. Nursing is a profession that combines compassion, science, and critical thinking. Throughout my academic journey, I have actively sought opportunities to expand my knowledge. I have applied for preceptorship programs, engaged in research, and I also keep seeking financial support through scholarships to help with some of my expenses. Aside from my academics, I am also invested in personal growth and community engagement. When I am not studying for my exams, I like to read, watch movies or explore new places. I am usually drawn toward material that offers diverse perspectives on human behavior, society, and personal development. I specifically loved the book Drunk by a Kenyan Author named Jackson Biko, which provides a thought-provoking exploration of human nature and decision-making. It was the kind of book that opened my mind to how we all live different lives, in different parts of the world, but we somehow end up meeting and connecting with people that change our lives. I actively seek opportunities to volunteer and contribute to my community, as I firmly believe that service to others is a fundamental aspect of personal and professional fulfillment. I am currently able to do this because my school usually has a lot of events, and I show up and help out whenever I can. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to share my story, and I sincerely hope to be considered for this scholarship. With this support, I will continue to strive for excellence, uphold the highest standards of integrity and service.

RUTH BADER GINSBURG’S LEGACY: FROM COURT TO HOSPITAL I read somewhere that history is shaped by those who dare to challenge the status quo, and it made me think about Ruth Bader Ginsburg. The first time I heard about her was when I watched the movie “On the basis of sex” and she had one of the most inspiring stories. When she completed her education, it was hard for her to secure a job she wanted because no one wanted to hire a woman for the positions she wanted, even though she was qualified. She eventually started working as a law professor, until she came across the case of a man who was being unfairly taxed by the government because he was a caregiver to his mother, and caregiving was a job that was meant to be done by women. This case made her realize that the specific law wasn’t just discriminatory to women, but it discriminated people based on sex, and what was expected of them by society. She ended up fighting for this man, and they won the case, and that law was changed. I was both intrigued and inspired by this movie. I admired Mrs. Ginsburg’s fighting spirit, even when all odds seemed to be working against her. I admired how much she pushed back, even when her emotions were getting the best of her. She was fighting for justice, because she believed it was something that would benefit future generations. Her unwavering advocacy for gender equality, her calculated approach to dismantling legal barriers, combined with her ability to turn personal conviction into national change are qualities that make her someone I look up to. Being a student in my first semester of nursing school, her story makes me realize that I want to do more than just take care of my patients; I want to be the kind of nurse that has the confidence to advocate for them whenever I feel like they are not being treated fairly, especially when they are not in a position to stand up for themselves. I want to be the nurse that takes the time to listen to my patients when they have any concerns, because that would go a long way in ensuring that they get the treatment they need, and they can go back to their loved ones as soon as possible. Ginsburg’s career was also defined by her persistence in the face of adversity. At a time when women were expected to accept limitations put on them by society, she defied the odds by graduating at the top of her class, fighting against gender-based discrimination, and eventually reshaping the American legal landscape. My professors mentioned multiple times that disparities in healthcare access and patient rights can greatly affect outcomes. I hope to be a voice for patients who struggle to navigate the complexities in the healthcare system the same way Mrs. Ginsburg fought for the rights of the voiceless before the Supreme Court. This includes but is not limited to fighting for patient rights, advocating for improved access to care, or making sure that marginalized communities receive the attention they deserve. If I may quote Mrs. Ginsburg, “Fight for the things that you care about, but do it in a way that will lead others to join you.” With all the inspiration I got from her, I intend to pursue my career not just as a nurse, but as an advocate for change, with the intention to make a difference; one patient, one policy, and one act of courage at a time.

A JOURNEY OF PURPOSE, RESILIENCE AND SERVICE I remember that day like it was yesterday. The day I decided that I was going to take a chance on myself and what awaited on the other side if I pushed myself just a little harder. That’s how I ended up in the United States as an international student. Growing up in Kenya, I always wanted a future that involved me changing people’s lives. I previously pursued a degree in International Business Administration, and while working in the business field helped develop my interpersonal skills, I always knew I wanted to work in an industry that involved being of service to people, including in ways that even medicine can’t. I was drawn to healthcare not just for exciting complexities that come with studying sciences, but the fact that I knew this is where I could pursue my dream and fulfill my purpose. Adjusting to a new culture and education system was a challenge, but it strengthened my resilience and encouraged me to commit to my dreams. This transition, while challenging, has greatly shaped my character and reaffirmed my belief that I am made for the healthcare industry. I am currently pursuing my Associate Degree in Nursing while working in my school’s biology lab. Working in the biology lab has been an experience that has greatly improved my understanding of the science field, laboratory techniques, and research methodologies. It has also helped me develop my analytical and problem-solving skills and helped me understand why it is important to pay attention to detail, especially as someone who is going to be taking care of people. fostering a keen appreciation for the intricate biological processes that underpin human health. Ever since I started my nursing program, my professors have always insisted that evidence-based practice is one of the most important aspects of this field. The opportunity to work at the school’s biology lab has been great in helping me learn that because it is an experience that is instrumental in preparing me for a future in healthcare. Nursing is a profession that combines compassion, science, and critical thinking. Throughout my academic journey, I have actively sought opportunities to expand my knowledge. I have applied for preceptorship programs, engaged in research, and I also keep seeking financial support through scholarships to help with some of my expenses. When I am not studying for my exams, I like to read, watch movies or explore new places. I am usually drawn toward material that offers diverse perspectives on human behavior, society, and personal development. I specifically loved the book Drunk by a Kenyan Author named Jackson Biko, which provides a thought-provoking exploration of human nature and decision-making. It was the kind of book that opened my mind to how we all live different lives, in different parts of the world, but we somehow end up meeting and connecting with people that change our lives. I actively seek opportunities to volunteer and contribute to my community, as I firmly believe that service to others is a fundamental aspect of personal and professional fulfillment. I am currently able to do this because my school usually has a lot of events, and I show up and help out whenever I can. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to share my story, and I sincerely hope to be considered for this scholarship. I would love to complete my program and be able to explore what the world has in store for me. With this support, I will continue to strive for excellence, uphold the highest standards of integrity and service.

FAMILY, COMMUNITY AND RESILIENCE I am both humbled and inspired by the path that has brought me to nursing school. What began as a series of personal experiences has evolved into a passionate commitment to making a meaningful difference in people’s lives. Growing up in Kenya, I learned the value of care and resilience through my family’s experiences. My younger sister has Down’s syndrome, and as she grew older, she required more attentive care, particularly in managing her hygiene and medical needs. One moment that stands out was when I was teaching her something new about hygiene and taking care of herself to help her be independent when I wasn’t around. Seeing how much pride she had when she achieved this milestone solidified my belief in the power of empowering others through care. These moments with my sister taught me patience and empathy and it ignited my desire to extend such compassion and support to others. My interest in healthcare spiked when my mother underwent a hysterectomy a few years ago. What was meant to be a routine two-day hospital stay turned into two weeks. During this challenging time, I was able to witness firsthand the pivotal role nurses played in her recovery, offering both expert care and emotional support. Their patience, dedication and how delicate they were while they handled my mother inspired me to pursue a career where I could provide the same level of care for others. Before I decided to become a nurse, I pursued a different degree in International Business Administration where I developed valuable skills in communication, organization, and problem-solving. However, I was particularly drawn to serving others in a more direct and personal way. During my university years in Kenya, I volunteered at a children’s home for nearly a year. My responsibilities included feeding the children, tutoring them, cleaning the home, and assisting with their hygiene. A memorable experience that comes to mind is when I had to tutor a little girl who was really shy, but she wanted to participate in the educational activities her peers were engaging in. I ended up turning some of the lessons into fun games that she could participate in and still learn without having to keep to herself. Overtime, she became more confident and started engaging a bit more with the other children. This experience made me believe that a little compassion could go a long way. My journey to nursing school has not been without challenges. As an international student in the United States, I left behind the familiarity of home, family, and friends to pursue my dream. Adapting to a new environment while balancing academic and financial responsibilities has taught me resilience and determination. My support system, both back in Kenya and here in the U.S., has been instrumental in keeping me grounded and motivated. Looking ahead, I am excited about the opportunities that nursing school presents. I aspire to become a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist, because I know that there is a lot I can do to help people in this career path. Nursing is more than a career change for me; it is a calling that unites my personal experiences, values, and aspirations. This scholarship would play a huge role in helping me achieve that goal and I’ll be empowered to serve others with the same generosity and care that has brought me this far.

COMPASSIONATE CARE: MY INSPIRATION TO PURSUE NURSING My motivation for pursuing a career in Nursing stems from several experiences that have shaped my perspective and reinforced my desire to become a healthcare provider. First, and a major one: caring for my sister Phoebe. When she smiles, she literally lights up the room. Her capacity to give her best in all she can do astounds me sometimes, but then, she has those moments where she’ll require just a bit extra help to get through her day. Phoebe was born Down’s Syndrome; as her primary caregiver, I have gained first-hand experience in providing compassionate care to her because she requires extra attention and support to be her best self. Second, a while back, when my mother got admitted in hospital for an extended period, the nurses provided her with exceptional care that made her comfortable and confident in her recovery. Seeing the positive impact they had also inspired me to pursue a career in Nursing. I am passionate about helping people and I know this is my calling because not only do I see it in myself, but others also see it in me; this is why I am excited to apply for this scholarship, because I know it is going to help with my tuition. Throughout my time in University, I had the privilege of volunteering at a children's home in Kenya. For almost a year, I dedicated myself to helping these children in any way that I could, from assisting with their basic needs to organizing educational activities for them. That experience taught me the value of compassion and reinforced my desire to pursue a career in nursing. I witnessed first-hand how important it is for healthcare professionals to show empathy and kindness to their patients, particularly in vulnerable populations like children. I learnt to be patient, attentive, and resourceful, skills that I believe will be invaluable as a Nurse. My decision to pursue a career in Nursing marks a significant shift in my professional trajectory. After completing my first degree in International Business Administration, I worked in several roles in the corporate sector. However, over time, I found that my passion for helping people and making a positive impact in their lives was not being fully utilized. Pursuing this course is a career change for me, but it is one that I am enthusiastic about. I see it as an opportunity to combine my skills in communication, problem-solving, and teamwork, with my desire to make a tangible difference in people's lives. As an international student pursuing a degree in the United States, I face significant financial challenges because of my visa restrictions, which limit my employment opportunities to on-campus jobs. These positions do not provide sufficient income to cover my tuition and living expenses. This scholarship would reduce this financial burden. I sincerely hope that I will be considered for this scholarship, as it will play a crucial role in supporting my educational journey and future career in nursing.

INSPIRED BY HARRIET TUBMAN: MY PURSUIT FOR A NURSING DEGREE The movie “Harriet” popped up on my Netflix recommendations one day when I was mindlessly scrolling, trying to find something to watch. I decided to watch the movie, and by the time I was done, it reminded me of the extraordinary life Harriet Tubman had lived. When I decided to leave my home country to move to the United States to pursue a nursing degree, it was one of the most challenging decisions I have ever made. Harriet Tubman’s story is an inspiring one to me, being that her strength, resilience, and determination guided her through a lot of obstacles in a bid to free her people from slavery. Even though Harriet was born into slavery, she escaped to freedom and then repeatedly risked her life to help other slaves gain freedom through the underground railroad. She had an unwavering commitment to her mission, despite the dangers, and this I relate to this because it reminds me of what it felt like when I was making plans to leave behind everything I knew. When I decided to leave my home country, I was filled with anticipation, but also anxiety because whatever lay ahead was uncertain, similar to the risky routes Tubman navigated. Her story taught me that true change often requires immense courage and a willingness to face the unknown. I didn’t know what the future held, what to anticipate, and the kind of challenges I would face, but I knew that taking the first step towards this dream was the only way I was going to find out the kind of reward that awaited me on the other side. Despite the physical and emotional toll the missions had on her, she was still committed to freeing her people. Adjusting to a new culture, overcoming language barriers, and handling financial constraints have been significant challenges. Yet, just like Tubman, I have learned to view these obstacles not as barriers but as opportunities to grow stronger. Every challenge I overcome brings me one step closer to my goal of becoming a nurse, with the intention to care for those in need. The decision to pursue my dreams meant saying goodbye to the people and places that had shaped the person I am. I missed the daily interactions with loved ones, the comfort of familiar surroundings, and the support system that had always been there for me. Tubman’s bravery in leaving behind what was familiar to fight for a greater cause reminded me about the strength it takes to make such a difficult decision because it is a step towards achieving something greater. I realize that my decision to relocate was not just about pursuing a career in nursing but also about seeking a life of purpose and service. Harriet Tubman’s dedication to helping others inspires me to do the same in my future profession. As a nurse, I will have the opportunity to impact lives much like Tubman advocated for those she led to freedom. Her story has empowered me to face my challenges with courage and to remain committed to my goals. Her legacy reminds me that as long as I keep on being determined and resilient, I will achieve my dream of becoming a nurse, and I will look back one day and be glad that I made this choice.

COMPASSIONATE CARE: MY INSPIRATION TO PURSUE NURSING My motivation for pursuing a career in Nursing stems from several experiences that have shaped my perspective and reinforced my desire to become a healthcare provider. First, and a major one: caring for my sister Phoebe. When she smiles, she literally lights up the room. Her capacity to give her best in all she can do astounds me sometimes, but then, she has those moments where she’ll require just a bit of extra help to get through her day. Phoebe was born with Down’s Syndrome; as her primary caregiver, I have gained first-hand experience in providing compassionate care to her because she requires extra attention and support to be her best self. Second, a while back, when my mother got admitted in hospital for an extended period, the nurses provided her with exceptional care that made her comfortable and confident in her recovery. Seeing the positive impact they had also inspired me to pursue a career in Nursing. I am passionate about helping people and I know this is my calling because not only do I see it in myself, but others also see it in me; this is why I am excited to apply for this scholarship, because I know it is going to help with my tuition. Throughout my time in University, I had the privilege of volunteering at a children's home in Kenya. For almost a year, I dedicated myself to helping these children in any way that I could, from assisting with their basic needs to organizing educational activities for them. That experience taught me the value of compassion and reinforced my desire to pursue a career in nursing. I witnessed first-hand how important it is for healthcare professionals to show empathy and kindness to their patients, particularly in vulnerable populations like children. I learnt to be patient, attentive, and resourceful, skills that I believe will be invaluable as a Nurse. I am eager to continue using my passion for service to others as I pursue my studies in Nursing My decision to pursue a career in Nursing marks a significant shift in my professional trajectory. After completing my first degree in International Business Administration, I worked in several roles in the corporate sector. However, over time, I found that my passion for helping people and making a positive impact in their lives was not being fully utilized. Pursuing this course will be a career change for me, but it is one that I am enthusiastic about. I see it as an opportunity to combine my skills in communication, problem-solving, and teamwork, with my desire to make a tangible difference in people's lives. I am excited to apply my previous experiences and skills to this new path and am eager to become a compassionate and skilled healthcare provider. I sincerely hope that I will be considered for this scholarship, as it would play a crucial role in supporting my educational journey and future career in nursing.

COMPASSIONATE CARE: MY INSPIRATION TO PURSUE NURSING My motivation for pursuing a career in Nursing stems from several experiences that have shaped my perspective and reinforced my desire to become a healthcare provider. First, and a major one: caring for my sister Phoebe. When she smiles, she literally lights up the room. Her capacity to give her best in all she can do astounds me sometimes, but then, she has those moments where she’ll require just a bit extra help to get through her day. Phoebe was born Down’s Syndrome; as her primary caregiver, I have gained first-hand experience in providing compassionate care to her because she requires extra attention and support to be her best self. Second, a while back, when my mother got admitted in hospital for an extended period, the nurses provided her with exceptional care that made her comfortable and confident in her recovery. Seeing the positive impact they had also inspired me to pursue a career in Nursing. I am passionate about helping people and I know this is my calling because not only do I see it in myself, but others also see it in me. Throughout my time in University, I had the privilege of volunteering at a children's home in Kenya. For almost a year, I dedicated myself to helping these children in any way that I could, from assisting with their basic needs to organizing educational activities for them. That experience taught me the value of compassion and reinforced my desire to pursue a career in nursing. I witnessed first-hand how important it is for healthcare professionals to show empathy and kindness to their patients, particularly in vulnerable populations like children. I learnt to be patient, attentive, and resourceful, skills that I believe will be invaluable as a Nurse. I am eager to continue using my passion for service to others as I pursue my studies in Nursing My decision to pursue a career in Nursing marks a significant shift in my professional trajectory. After completing my first degree in International Business Administration, I worked in several roles in the corporate sector. However, over time, I found that my passion for helping people and making a positive impact in their lives was not being fully utilized. Pursuing this course will be a career change for me, but it is one that I am enthusiastic about. I see it as an opportunity to combine my skills in communication, problem-solving, and teamwork, with my desire to make a tangible difference in people's lives. I am excited to apply my previous experiences and skills to this new path and am eager to become a compassionate and skilled healthcare provider. Studying Nursing is critical to my long-term goals of becoming a skilled Nurse Practitioner who can provide compassionate care while also contributing to the advancement of healthcare practices. As an international student pursuing a nursing degree in the United States, I face significant financial challenges because of my visa restrictions, which limit my employment opportunities to on-campus jobs. These positions do not provide sufficient income to cover my tuition and living expenses. This scholarship would reduce this financial burden, allowing me to focus more on my studies. It would enable me to continue my education and achieve my goal of becoming a skilled nurse, ultimately contributing positively to the healthcare community. I am committed to working hard, learning as much as I can, and making a meaningful impact in the lives of those I serve.

COMPASSIONATE CARE: MY INSPIRATION TO PURSUE NURSING My motivation for pursuing a career in Nursing stems from several experiences that have shaped my perspective and reinforced my desire to become a healthcare provider. First, and a major one: caring for my sister Phoebe. When she smiles, she literally lights up the room. Her capacity to give her best in all she can do astounds me sometimes, but then, she has those moments where she’ll require just a bit extra help to get through her day. Phoebe was born Down’s Syndrome; as her primary caregiver, I have gained first-hand experience in providing compassionate care to her because she requires extra attention and support to be her best self. Second, a while back, when my mother got admitted in hospital for an extended period, the nurses provided her with exceptional care that made her comfortable and confident in her recovery. Seeing the positive impact they had also inspired me to pursue a career in Nursing. I am passionate about helping people and I know this is my calling because not only do I see it in myself, but others also see it in me. Throughout my time in University, I had the privilege of volunteering at a children's home in Kenya. For almost a year, I dedicated myself to helping these children in any way that I could, from assisting with their basic needs to organizing educational activities for them. That experience taught me the value of compassion and reinforced my desire to pursue a career in nursing. I witnessed first-hand how important it is for healthcare professionals to show empathy and kindness to their patients, particularly in vulnerable populations like children. I learnt to be patient, attentive, and resourceful, skills that I believe will be invaluable as a Nurse. I am eager to continue using my passion for service to others as I pursue my studies in Nursing My decision to pursue a career in Nursing marks a significant shift in my professional trajectory. After completing my first degree in International Business Administration, I worked in several roles in the corporate sector. However, over time, I found that my passion for helping people and making a positive impact in their lives was not being fully utilized. Pursuing this course will be a career change for me, but it is one that I am enthusiastic about. I see it as an opportunity to combine my skills in communication, problem-solving, and teamwork, with my desire to make a tangible difference in people's lives. I am excited to apply my previous experiences and skills to this new path and am eager to become a compassionate and skilled healthcare provider. Studying Nursing is critical to my long-term goals of becoming a skilled Nurse Practitioner who can provide compassionate care while also contributing to the advancement of healthcare practices. As an international student pursuing a nursing degree in the United States, I face significant financial challenges because of my visa restrictions, which limit my employment opportunities to on-campus jobs. These positions do not provide sufficient income to cover my tuition and living expenses. This scholarship would reduce this financial burden, allowing me to focus more on my studies. It would enable me to continue my education and achieve my goal of becoming a skilled nurse, ultimately contributing positively to the healthcare community. I am committed to working hard, learning as much as I can, and making a meaningful impact in the lives of those I serve.

COMPASSIONATE CARE: MY INSPIRATION TO PURSUE NURSING My motivation for pursuing a career in Nursing stems from several experiences that have shaped my perspective and reinforced my desire to become a healthcare provider. First, and a major one: caring for my sister Phoebe. When she smiles, she literally lights up the room. Her capacity to give her best in all she can do astounds me sometimes, but then, she has those moments where she’ll require just a bit extra help to get through her day. Phoebe was born Down’s Syndrome; as her primary caregiver, I have gained first-hand experience in providing compassionate care to her because she requires extra attention and support to be her best self. Second, a while back, when my mother got admitted in hospital for an extended period, the nurses provided her with exceptional care that made her comfortable and confident in her recovery. Seeing the positive impact they had also inspired me to pursue a career in Nursing. I am passionate about helping people and I know this is my calling because not only do I see it in myself, but others also see it in me; this is why I am excited to apply for this scholarship, because I know it is going to help with my tuition. Throughout my time in University, I had the privilege of volunteering at a children's home in Kenya. For almost a year, I dedicated myself to helping these children in any way that I could, from assisting with their basic needs to organizing educational activities for them. That experience taught me the value of compassion and reinforced my desire to pursue a career in nursing. I witnessed first-hand how important it is for healthcare professionals to show empathy and kindness to their patients, particularly in vulnerable populations like children. I learnt to be patient, attentive, and resourceful, skills that I believe will be invaluable as a Nurse. My decision to pursue a career in Nursing marks a significant shift in my professional trajectory. After completing my first degree in International Business Administration, I worked in several roles in the corporate sector. However, over time, I found that my passion for helping people and making a positive impact in their lives was not being fully utilized. Pursuing this course will be a career change for me, but it is one that I am enthusiastic about. I see it as an opportunity to combine my skills in communication, problem-solving, and teamwork, with my desire to make a tangible difference in people's lives. I am excited to apply my previous experiences and skills to this new path and am eager to become a compassionate and skilled healthcare provider. As an international student pursuing a nursing degree in the United States, I face significant financial challenges because of my visa restrictions, which limit my employment opportunities to on-campus jobs. These positions do not provide sufficient income to cover my tuition and living expenses. This scholarship would reduce this financial burden, allowing me to focus more on my studies. I sincerely hope that I will be considered for this scholarship, as it would play a crucial role in supporting my educational journey and future career in nursing.

COMPASSIONATE CARE: MY INSPIRATION TO PURSUE NURSING My motivation for pursuing a career in Nursing stems from several experiences that have shaped my perspective and reinforced my desire to become a healthcare provider. First, and a major one: caring for my sister Phoebe. When she smiles, she literally lights up the room. Her capacity to give her best in all she can do astounds me sometimes, but then, she has those moments where she’ll require just a bit extra help to get through her day. Phoebe was born Down’s Syndrome; as her primary caregiver, I have gained first-hand experience in providing compassionate care to her because she requires extra attention and support to be her best self. Second, a while back, when my mother got admitted in hospital for an extended period, the nurses provided her with exceptional care that made her comfortable and confident in her recovery. Seeing the positive impact they had also inspired me to pursue a career in Nursing. I am passionate about helping people and I know this is my calling because not only do I see it in myself, but others also see it in me; this is why I am excited to apply for this scholarship, because I know it is going to help with my tuition. Throughout my time in University, I had the privilege of volunteering at a children's home in Kenya. For almost a year, I dedicated myself to helping these children in any way that I could, from assisting with their basic needs to organizing educational activities for them. That experience taught me the value of compassion and reinforced my desire to pursue a career in nursing. I witnessed first-hand how important it is for healthcare professionals to show empathy and kindness to their patients, particularly in vulnerable populations like children. I learnt to be patient, attentive, and resourceful, skills that I believe will be invaluable as a Nurse. I am eager to continue using my passion for service to others as I pursue my studies in Nursing. My decision to pursue a career in Nursing marks a significant shift in my professional trajectory. After completing my first degree in International Business Administration, I worked in several roles in the corporate sector. However, over time, I found that my passion for helping people and making a positive impact in their lives was not being fully utilized. Pursuing this course will be a career change for me, but it is one that I am enthusiastic about. I see it as an opportunity to combine my skills in communication, problem-solving, and teamwork, with my desire to make a tangible difference in people's lives. I am excited to apply my previous experiences and skills to this new path and am eager to become a compassionate and skilled healthcare provider. As an international student pursuing a nursing degree in the United States, I face significant financial challenges because of my visa restrictions, which limit my employment opportunities to on-campus jobs. These positions do not provide sufficient income to cover my tuition and living expenses. This scholarship would reduce this financial burden, allowing me to focus more on my studies. It would enable me to continue my education and achieve my goal of becoming a skilled nurse, ultimately contributing positively to the healthcare community. I sincerely hope that I will be considered for this scholarship, as it would play a crucial role in supporting my educational journey and future career in nursing.

COMPASSIONATE CARE: MY INSPIRATION TO PURSUE NURSING My motivation for pursuing a career in Nursing stems from several experiences that have shaped my perspective and reinforced my desire to become a healthcare provider. First, and a major one: caring for my sister Phoebe. When she smiles, she literally lights up the room. Her capacity to give her best in all she can do astounds me sometimes, but then, she has those moments where she’ll require just a bit extra help to get through her day. Phoebe was born Down’s Syndrome; as her primary caregiver, I have gained first-hand experience in providing compassionate care to her because she requires extra attention and support to be her best self. Second, a while back, when my mother got admitted in hospital for an extended period, the nurses provided her with exceptional care that made her comfortable and confident in her recovery. Seeing the positive impact they had also inspired me to pursue a career in Nursing. I am passionate about helping people and I know this is my calling because not only do I see it in myself, but others also see it in me; this is why I am excited to apply for this scholarship, because I know it is going to help with my tuition. Throughout my time in University, I had the privilege of volunteering at a children's home in Kenya. For almost a year, I dedicated myself to helping these children in any way that I could, from assisting with their basic needs to organizing educational activities for them. That experience taught me the value of compassion and reinforced my desire to pursue a career in nursing. I witnessed first-hand how important it is for healthcare professionals to show empathy and kindness to their patients, particularly in vulnerable populations like children. I learnt to be patient, attentive, and resourceful, skills that I believe will be invaluable as a Nurse. I am eager to continue using my passion for service to others as I pursue my studies in Nursing My decision to pursue a career in Nursing marks a significant shift in my professional trajectory. After completing my first degree in International Business Administration, I worked in several roles in the corporate sector. However, over time, I found that my passion for helping people and making a positive impact in their lives was not being fully utilized. Pursuing this course will be a career change for me, but it is one that I am enthusiastic about. I see it as an opportunity to combine my skills in communication, problem-solving, and teamwork, with my desire to make a tangible difference in people's lives. I am excited to apply my previous experiences and skills to this new path and am eager to become a compassionate and skilled healthcare provider. As an international student pursuing a nursing degree in the United States, I face significant financial challenges because of my visa restrictions, which limit my employment opportunities to on-campus jobs. These positions do not provide sufficient income to cover my tuition and living expenses. This scholarship would reduce this financial burden, allowing me to focus more on my studies. It would enable me to continue my education and achieve my goal of becoming a skilled nurse, ultimately contributing positively to the healthcare community. I sincerely hope that I will be considered for this scholarship, as it would play a crucial role in supporting my educational journey and future career in nursing.

I grew up in a small town in the Western part of Kenya. I used to listen to people talking about finding jobs and going to school abroad and when I was younger, I never thought that would ever be me, because it felt like such a farfetched dream. That I would actually have the courage to leave everything I know behind, and then decide to go pursue my studies in another country. In addition to this, I was also changing careers because I had taken a career path I wasn’t passionate about and it took a while before I realized my purpose. Pursuing a nursing degree in the United States has been a transformative journey that reflects my commitment to making a meaningful impact on the lives of others. My motivation for pursuing a career in Nursing stems from several experiences that have shaped my perspective and reinforced my desire to become a healthcare provider. First, and a major one: caring for my sister Phoebe. When she smiles, she literally lights up the room. Her capacity to give her best in all she can do astounds me sometimes, but then, she has those moments where she’ll require just a bit extra help to get through her day. Phoebe was born with Down’s Syndrome; as her primary caregiver, I have gained first-hand experience in providing compassionate care to her because she requires extra attention and support to be her best self. Second, a while back, when my mother got admitted in hospital for an extended period, the nurses provided her with exceptional care that made her comfortable and confident in her recovery. Seeing the positive impact they had also inspired me to pursue a career in Nursing. I am passionate about helping people and I know this is my calling because not only do I see it in myself, but others also see it in me; this is why I am excited to apply for this scholarship, because I know it is going to help a lot with my tuition. Throughout my time in University when I was studying my first degree, I had the privilege of volunteering at a children's home in Kenya. For almost a year, I dedicated myself to helping these children in any way that I could, from assisting with their basic needs to organizing educational activities for them. That experience taught me the value of compassion and reinforced my desire to pursue a career in nursing. I witnessed first-hand how important it is for healthcare professionals to show empathy and kindness to their patients, particularly in vulnerable populations like children. I learnt to be patient, attentive, and resourceful, skills that I believe will be invaluable as a Nurse. As an international student pursuing a nursing degree in the United States, I face significant financial challenges because of my visa restrictions, which limit my employment opportunities to on-campus jobs. These positions do not provide sufficient income to cover my tuition and living expenses. This scholarship would reduce this financial burden, allowing me to focus more on my studies. It would enable me to continue my education and achieve my goal of becoming a skilled nurse, ultimately contributing positively to the healthcare community. I sincerely hope that I will be considered for this scholarship, as it would play a crucial role in supporting my educational journey and future career in nursing.

A CALLING BEYOND BORDERS: MY JOURNEY AS AN INTERNATIONAL NURSING STUDENT I grew up in a small town in the Western part of Kenya. I used to listen to people talking about finding jobs and going to school abroad and when I was younger, I never thought that would ever be me. That I would actually have the courage to leave everything I know behind, and then decide to go pursue my studies in another country. In addition to this, I was also changing careers because I had taken a career path I wasn’t passionate about and it took a while before I realized my purpose. Pursuing a nursing degree in the United States has been a transformative journey that reflects my commitment to making a meaningful impact on the lives of others. I grew up in a community where healthcare resources were often limited, and witnessing the struggles of people around me ignited a passion for helping others. As an international student, relocating to the United States has been both challenging and rewarding. Having to leave behind my family, friends, and everything familiar was quite scary, but my determination to pursue a career in nursing gave me the motivation I needed to take that step. The cultural adjustments, homesickness, and financial obligations were significant, yet each challenge helped me discover my resilience and adaptability, traits that are quite important in the nursing profession. Technological advancement has provided opportunities for a lot of people to earn a living, especially through social media. However, my decision to pursue a nursing degree is driven by a deeper purpose. It is not just a career; it is a profession that requires empathy, dedication, and a sincere desire to serve others.

COMPASSIONATE CARE: MY INSPIRATION TO PURSUE NURSING My motivation for pursuing a career in Nursing stems from several experiences that have shaped my perspective and reinforced my desire to become a healthcare provider. First, and a major one: caring for my sister Phoebe. When she smiles, she literally lights up the room. Her capacity to give her best in all she can do astounds me sometimes, but then, she has those moments where she’ll require just a bit extra help to get through her day. Phoebe was born Down’s Syndrome; as her primary caregiver, I have gained first-hand experience in providing compassionate care to her because she requires extra attention and support to be her best self. Second, a while back, when my mother got admitted in hospital for an extended period, the nurses provided her with exceptional care that made her comfortable and confident in her recovery. Seeing the positive impact they had also inspired me to pursue a career in Nursing. I am passionate about helping people and I know this is my calling because not only do I see it in myself, but others also see it in me; this is why I am excited to apply for this scholarship, because I know it is going to help with my tuition. Throughout my time in University, I had the privilege of volunteering at a children's home in Kenya. For almost a year, I dedicated myself to helping these children in any way that I could, from assisting with their basic needs to organizing educational activities for them. That experience taught me the value of compassion and reinforced my desire to pursue a career in nursing. I witnessed first-hand how important it is for healthcare professionals to show empathy and kindness to their patients, particularly in vulnerable populations like children. I learnt to be patient, attentive, and resourceful, skills that I believe will be invaluable as a Nurse. I am eager to continue using my passion for service to others as I pursue my studies in Nursing My decision to pursue a career in Nursing marks a significant shift in my professional trajectory. After completing my first degree in International Business Administration, I worked in several roles in the corporate sector. However, over time, I found that my passion for helping people and making a positive impact in their lives was not being fully utilized. Pursuing this course will be a career change for me, but it is one that I am enthusiastic about. I see it as an opportunity to combine my skills in communication, problem-solving, and teamwork, with my desire to make a tangible difference in people's lives. I am excited to apply my previous experiences and skills to this new path and am eager to become a compassionate and skilled healthcare provider. As an international student pursuing a nursing degree in the United States, I face significant financial challenges because of my visa restrictions, which limit my employment opportunities to on-campus jobs. These positions do not provide sufficient income to cover my tuition and living expenses. This scholarship would help with my tuition and allow me to focus on my studies. I sincerely hope that I will be considered for this scholarship, as it would play a crucial role in supporting my educational journey and future career in nursing.

COMPASSIONATE CARE: MY INSPIRATION TO PURSUE NURSING My motivation for pursuing a career in Nursing stems from several experiences that have shaped my perspective and reinforced my desire to become a healthcare provider. First, and a major one: caring for my sister Phoebe. When she smiles, she literally lights up the room. Her capacity to give her best in all she can do astounds me sometimes, but then, she has those moments where she’ll require just a bit extra help to get through her day. Phoebe was born Down’s Syndrome; as her primary caregiver, I have gained first-hand experience in providing compassionate care to her because she requires extra attention and support to be her best self. Second, a while back, when my mother got admitted in hospital for an extended period, the nurses provided her with exceptional care that made her comfortable and confident in her recovery. Seeing the positive impact they had also inspired me to pursue a career in Nursing. I am passionate about helping people and I know this is my calling because not only do I see it in myself, but others also see it in me; this is why I am excited to apply for this scholarship, because I know it is going to help with my tuition. Throughout my time in University, I had the privilege of volunteering at a children's home in Kenya. For almost a year, I dedicated myself to helping these children in any way that I could, from assisting with their basic needs to organizing educational activities for them. That experience taught me the value of compassion and reinforced my desire to pursue a career in nursing. I witnessed first-hand how important it is for healthcare professionals to show empathy and kindness to their patients, particularly in vulnerable populations like children. I learnt to be patient, attentive, and resourceful, skills that I believe will be invaluable as a Nurse. I am eager to continue using my passion for service to others as I pursue my studies in Nursing My decision to pursue a career in Nursing marks a significant shift in my professional trajectory. After completing my first degree in International Business Administration, I worked in several roles in the corporate sector. However, over time, I found that my passion for helping people and making a positive impact in their lives was not being fully utilized. Pursuing this course will be a career change for me, but it is one that I am enthusiastic about. I see it as an opportunity to combine my skills in communication, problem-solving, and teamwork, with my desire to make a tangible difference in people's lives. I am excited to apply my previous experiences and skills to this new path and am eager to become a compassionate and skilled healthcare provider. The decision to pursue my dreams meant saying goodbye to the people and places that had shaped the person I am. I miss the daily interactions with loved ones, the comfort of familiar surroundings, and the support system that had always been there for me. I realize that my decision to relocate was not just about pursuing a career in nursing but also about seeking a life of purpose and service. As a nurse, I will have the opportunity to impact lives and fulfill my passion for helping people. I strive to remain committed to my goals because I know I will look back one day and be glad that I made this choice.