I live and work on the South Side of Chicago, where I see every day how access to healthcare—and the lack of it—affects my community. Working in an ambulatory clinic has given me a front-row view of the challenges many people face when it comes to their health. Some patients come in only when their condition has worsened, while others avoid coming in at all. Over time, I’ve realized that it’s not always a lack of care that keeps people away, but fear and uncertainty. Many people in my community are afraid of going to the doctor. Some fear hearing a diagnosis they are not ready to face. Others are hesitant about taking medications because they don’t fully understand what they are for or how they will affect their bodies. I have spoken with patients who would rather ignore symptoms than risk receiving bad news. These experiences have shaped how I see my role in healthcare—not just as someone who assists in treatment, but as someone who can help reduce fear through education and trust. Through my college education, I plan to build the knowledge and skills needed to better serve my community, especially in the areas of preventative care and continuity of care. Preventative care is something I believe many people underestimate. Simple steps like routine check-ups, screenings, and early follow-ups can prevent more serious health issues later on. However, without proper education, these steps are often overlooked. I want to help change that by teaching patients why prevention matters and how it can improve their quality of life. Continuity of care is just as important. I have seen patients come in once but never return for follow-ups, which can lead to unmanaged conditions and avoidable complications. By building stronger relationships with patients and encouraging them to stay engaged in their care, I hope to help create better long-term outcomes. I want patients to feel comfortable returning, asking questions, and taking an active role in their health. Education will be at the center of everything I do. I plan to take the time to explain diagnoses, treatments, and medications in a way that is clear and relatable. When people understand what is happening in their bodies, they are more likely to trust the process and follow through with care. I also want to be mindful of cultural differences and personal experiences that shape how individuals view healthcare, so I can meet people where they are without judgment. Ultimately, my goal is to use my college education to become a healthcare professional who not only treats illness but helps prevent it. I want to be someone my community can trust—someone who listens, educates, and supports patients in making informed decisions about their health. By reducing fear and increasing understanding, I believe I can help improve health outcomes and contribute to a stronger, healthier South Side community.

Pursuing My Passion for Nursing Throughout my journey in the nursing program, I have faced numerous challenges—balancing school, work, and life responsibilities—but the most defining and life-altering moment came in November 2023 when I was diagnosed with thyroid cancer. At a time when I should have been preparing for graduation, I was instead navigating a whirlwind of fear, uncertainty, and doctor appointments. The diagnosis shook me to my core and forced me to confront not only my mortality but also the deep purpose behind my decision to become a nurse. There were moments when I felt completely overwhelmed. The thought of withdrawing from school crossed my mind more than once. I questioned whether I had the strength to continue while undergoing treatment and managing my responsibilities. But in those darkest moments, I remembered the promise I made to myself when I first enrolled in the nursing program: “No matter what… don’t quit.” That affirmation became my anchor. On February 7, 2024, I underwent surgery to remove my thyroid. The months that followed were filled with follow-up visits, tests, fatigue, and emotional ups and downs. Despite the physical toll, I stayed enrolled, studied through the pain, and pushed forward—one day at a time. My determination was finally rewarded on December 5, 2024, when I received the life-changing news that there were no signs of recurrent cancer. That moment was not just a medical victory; it was a spiritual and emotional one. It reaffirmed that I had the strength to overcome anything and that I was still on the right path. This personal challenge transformed me in ways I could not have imagined. It gave me a deeper empathy for patients—especially those silently battling illnesses while trying to carry on with their lives. I understand now, more than ever, how fear, vulnerability, and uncertainty affect the human spirit. As a nurse, I plan to carry this empathy into every patient interaction, offering not just clinical care but also emotional support and genuine compassion. My passion for learning and helping others has been the fuel that kept me going. Even when my body felt weak, my desire to grow and serve remained strong. I want to use my education not just to earn a degree, but to become a voice of comfort, a hand of support, and an advocate for those who feel unheard or unseen during their hardest times. Looking ahead, I plan to use my nursing career to make a tangible difference in the lives of others—especially in underserved communities where access to quality care is limited. My long-term goal is to pursue a Master’s in Nursing and eventually become a travel nurse, allowing me to bring care, knowledge, and hope to a broader range of people. This journey has tested me, but it has also built me. I’m no longer just a student chasing a goal—I’m a survivor walking in purpose.