Nutrition is, indeed, one of the most important pillars for preventing and treating major medical conditions. In the past years, I have had the opportunity to see firsthand how many medical conditions are influenced not only by genetics, but by daily lifestyle and nutritional choices. If I were awarded with this scholarship, I would apply my current training as a registered nurse, where I work closely with patients managing chronic and complex health conditions, to support my training as a naturopathic medicine student. On a daily basis, I am able to translate evidence based scientific research into clear guidance tailored to each patient's particular case. My main career goal is to become a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine so I can help people by healing from the root cause of their medical concerns. I am interested in specializing in dermatologic conditions; recent research has found that skin health is strongly connected to gut health, which is impacted directly by what we choose to eat on a regular basis. This approach of medicine encompasses not only prevention but also the possibility of eradicating major diseases that can recur, such as auto-immune disorders and cancer, among many other conditions like dermatitis. I firmly believe in an a approach of medicine that helps patients maintain lifestyles that allows them to live with healthy and balanced bodies, treating each aspect holistically, including nutritional choices. In this way, we treat not only the symptom but also the underlying cause of the imbalance in the patient's health. As both a nurse and an aspiring naturopathic doctor, my approach to education for patients would be integrative and patient-centered. Rather than overwhelming patients with difficult terms and rigid plans, I like to focus on actionable and sustainable changes that respect their reality of life, level of education, capacity of understanding and financial status. While also focusing on supporting their unique physiological healing processes within their nutritional plan. I also believe in the power of communities, so I would like to create a team that shares this vision of healthcare so that we can build a strong support network to care for our patients in the best possible way and make the most positive impact of the lives we touch. By combining my nursing background with advanced naturopathic training, I hope to empower patients and families to actively take care of their long-term health and well-being span. this way I will be contributing to a healthcare that values both scientific evidence and human connection; improving quantity, quality of life, dignity and wellness among communities.

Driven by a passion for holistic healthcare and a desire to uplift my community. I am Tatiana Pérez, a loving single mother of a wonderful 7-year-old girl. As a first-generation college student, I am pursuing my bachelor's degree in nursing sciences to overcome the challenges I faced growing up with limited resources and, with hope, create a brighter future for my little girl, for myself and my country. Balancing motherhood with my academic journey has been a real challenge and a rewarding experience. My commitment to my daughter's well-being and my own personal growth fuels my perseverance. Despite financial constraints, I have consistently demonstrated academic excellence, earning a 4.00 GPA and actively participating in extracurricular activities such as college intelectual competitions and volunteering. My personal journey with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) has inspired me to dream big. I envision establishing a foundation dedicated to empowering women with PCOS in Puerto Rico. This foundation will provide comprehensive support, including education on treatment options, nutrition, holistic wellness, and accessible healthcare services and skincare treatments. Furthermore, my passion for skin health has led me to aspire to open a specialized clinic, offering high-quality skincare services to my community. I firmly believe that education is the key to unlocking my potential and achieving my goals. This scholarship will enable me to focus on my studies, reduce my financial burden, and expedite my journey towards becoming a licensed nurse and to continue pursuing a higher level of education as a Nurse Practitioner. By eliminating the constraints posed by student loan debt, I can dedicate my time and energy to making a meaningful impact through my projects and clinical practice. My determination and my passion for healthcare and commitment to community service, makes me an ideal candidate for this scholarship. By receiving this support, I will be empowered to contribute significantly to the health and well-being of my community in Puerto Rico. I am grateful for the opportunity to apply for this scholarship and look forward to the possibilities of obtaining your support for the humble dreamer and worker I am. My country needs committed leaders in the health area who aim to create significant projects that provide better opportunities to citizens and people with limited resources. With dedication and a vision for a healthier future, I am confident that I can make a positive difference in the lives of those around me and my country that needs a lot of support into the healthcare systems.

Introduction: Education holds an irrefutable significance in shaping our lives, enabling us to fulfill our aspirations, break free from the constraints of circumstance, and make a positive impact on society. As a first-generation college student and a single mother, the value of education resonates deeply with me. Moreover, my unwavering passion for nursing, driven by a genuine desire to improve people's health, further amplifies the importance of obtaining an education. In this essay, I will elucidate the reasons why acquiring an education holds immense personal significance and how it empowers me to make a difference in the world. Being a first-generation college student, I am keenly aware of the challenges that lie ahead. Nevertheless, I firmly believe that education has the power to transcend boundaries and provide opportunities for personal growth. By pursuing higher education, I am breaking free from the cycle of limited opportunities and setting a precedent for future generations of my family. Education equips me with the necessary tools to overcome obstacles, empowering me to transform adversity into triumph and to bring new opportunities to the next generations of my family. As a single mother, my pursuit of education embodies the belief that I am not limited by my circumstances. By acquiring knowledge and skills through education, I can provide a secure future for my child and I. Education broadens my horizons, enhances my critical thinking abilities, and equips me with the tools to navigate the complexities of life. It instills within me the confidence and independence required to provide the best possible life for my little girl. The field of nursing captivates me because it offers a profound opportunity to positively impact the lives of others. With an education in nursing, I can combine my passion for healthcare and my innate desire to help others. Education arms me with the expertise and understanding necessary to provide comprehensive care and support to individuals in need. Through my knowledge, empathy, and skills, I can contribute to the well-being of individuals, families, and communities of my country. As a first-generation college student and a single mother pursuing a career in nursing, I become a beacon of hope for others facing similar challenges. My journey serves as an inspiration to those who believe that their circumstances define their future. By embracing education, I can break barriers and demonstrate that anyone, regardless of their background, has the power to achieve their dreams. I aim to foster change, empower others, and encourage them to embrace the transformative potential of education. Conclusion: Education is a catalyst for personal growth, empowerment, and societal progress. My pursuit of education holds profound significance, as it not only transcends the limitations imposed by circumstance but also enables me to make a tangible difference in people's lives. Through education, I gain the knowledge, skills, and confidence necessary to excel as a nurse and positively impact the health and well-being of those in need. Moreover, my journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of education, inspiring others to believe in their potential. Education empowers me to chart my own path, create a brighter future for my child, and contribute meaningfully to the world.