My name is Traedan Wise and I am currently pursing my Bachelor's Degree in Nursing with the ultimate goal of being a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. As I grew up, I was always in one of two places, with my mother or with my grandmother. My mother didn't really like me being away from her much, but my grandmother's house was always a safe haven. Luckily, I was able to witness the presence of my late grandmother and how she cared for the whole family in her old age. She was truly the backbone of our household. Honestly, you would have never guessed she was 87 going on 88 years old based on how present she was in everyone’s lives. She cooked, cleaned, offered advice, and checked in on everyone, without expecting anything in return. She was the person everyone turned to, and she never turned anyone away. I never got the chance to tell her this, but watching her gave me a deep appreciation for the strength found in caregiving. My grandmother wasn’t a nurse by profession, but she genuinely had the heart and instinct of one. She inspired me to pursue nursing not because she helped others, but how she helped others and the way she made people feel afterwards. She empowered those inside and outside of our family with grace, humility, and love. There was never a day where she didn’t make me feel safe, valued, and capable. I strive to carry her example with me in everything that I do. If you can’t tell by now, nursing is more than a career path for me. It’s a calling that aligns with everything I believe in. Nurses are on the frontlines of care, not only tending to physical needs but also offering emotional support and education for health concerns. The unique position nurses hold allow them countless opportunities to empower others. Whether it’s explaining a new diagnosis in simpler terms, helping a patient understand their medical routine, or just being there to listen when times are scary, nurses help patients reclaim control over their lives. That kind of empowerment does more than just improve one’s health. It can go as far as changing someone’s life. To make long story short, that is the kind of nurse I aspire to be. Someone who gives patients the confidence and knowledge to move forward in the face of fear and unsureness, like my grandmother did for me. I have previous experience volunteering at a dialysis clinic and am currently working at an ABA clinic helping children with autism learn how to communicate and socialize.

Hi, my name is Traedan Wise and I am currently pursuing a Bachelor’s in Nursing with a long-term goal of becoming a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. I have been enticed with a career in healthcare for as long as I can remember. It all started at my grandmother's house where I was able to truly witness what it means to care for someone everyday. She was the rock of our entire family and neighborhood. Even as she progressed in age, she never failed to be the person everyone came to for help and support. She did everything you could think without expecting a single thing in return because that's just the kind of spirit she had. What I learned from her was the true essence and importance of selfless care and compassion. My inspiration for this decision comes from her example which I choose to carry with me daily into all I become a part of. Whether that be my family life, school, or the future patients I look after once I've graduated school; her tremendous positive impact on my life will be reflected. What made her so remarkable was not only her personality but how she touched people's lives. It's like she had a strength of her own in protecting and caring for everybody, in making people feel seen and heard. She helped me to see that actual care isn't just about the medicine or the technicalities, but about the personal and emotional impact you leave on someone's life. I strive to embody those teachings everyday in the healthcare field. As I grow more and more each day, my purpose is only strengthened by my up-bringing and personal experience growing up in a single parent household. I watched my mother take on every challenge and responsibility with resilience instilling in me that same quality. She was a true representation of the phrase “you can do anything you put your mind to.” I learned early on the significance of accountability and perseverance, qualities that have guided me throughout my academic journey. These experiences shaped the man I am today, and the man I strive to be in the healthcare field. Receiving this scholarship would alleviate some of the financial burden I’ve been presented with and will be presented with in the future. It would go towards supporting a young man trying to create a positive impact on the world one patient at a time, but it starts with strengthening my knowledge, refining my skills, and gaining hands-on experience. My grandmother showed me what it means to care for others wholeheartedly and with the support of this scholarship, I will carry her legacy forward.

Hi, my name is Traedan Wise and I am currently pursuing a Bachelor’s in Nursing with a long-term goal of becoming a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. I have been enticed with a career in healthcare for as long as I can remember. It all started at my grandmother's house where I was able to truly witness what it means to care for someone everyday. She was the rock of our entire family and neighborhood. Even as she progressed in age, she never failed to be the person everyone came to for help and support. She did everything you could think without expecting a single thing in return because that's just the kind of spirit she had. What I learned from her was the true essence and importance of selfless care and compassion. My inspiration for this decision comes from her example which I choose to carry with me daily into all I become a part of. Whether that be my family life, school, or the future patients I look after once I've graduated school; her tremendous positive impact on my life will be reflected. What made her so remarkable was not only her personality but how she touched people's lives. It's like she had a strength of her own in protecting and caring for everybody, in making people feel seen and heard. She helped me to see that actual care isn't just about the medicine or the technicalities, but about the personal and emotional impact you leave on someone's life. I strive to embody those teachings everyday in the healthcare field. As I grow more and more each day, my purpose is only strengthened by my up-bringing and personal experience growing up in a single parent household. I watched my mother take on every challenge and responsibility with resilience instilling in me that same quality. She was a true representation of the phrase “you can do anything you put your mind to.” I learned early on the significance of accountability and perseverance, qualities that have guided me throughout my academic journey. These experiences shaped the man I am today, and the man I strive to be in the healthcare field. Receiving this scholarship would alleviate some of the financial burden I’ve been presented with and will be presented with in the future. It would go towards supporting a young man trying to create a positive impact on the world one patient at a time, but it starts with strengthening my knowledge, refining my skills, and gaining hands-on experience. My grandmother showed me what it means to care for others wholeheartedly and with the support of this scholarship, I will carry her legacy forward.

Hi, my name is Traedan Wise and I am currently pursuing a Bachelor’s in Nursing with a long-term goal of becoming a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. I have been enticed with a career in healthcare for as long as I can remember. It all started at my grandmother's house where I was able to truly witness what it means to care for someone everyday. She was the rock of our entire family and neighborhood. Even as she progressed in age, she never failed to be the person everyone came to for help and support. She did everything you could think without expecting a single thing in return because that's just the kind of spirit she had. What I learned from her was the true essence and importance of selfless care and compassion. My inspiration for this decision comes from her example which I choose to carry with me daily into all I become a part of. Whether that be my family life, school, or the future patients I look after once I've graduated school; her tremendous positive impact on my life will be reflected. What made her so remarkable was not only her personality but how she touched people's lives. It's like she had a strength of her own in protecting and caring for everybody, in making people feel seen and heard. She helped me to see that actual care isn't just about the medicine or the technicalities, but about the personal and emotional impact you leave on someone's life. I strive to embody those teachings everyday in the healthcare field. As I grow more and more each day, my purpose is only strengthened by my up-bringing and personal experience growing up in a single parent household. I watched my mother take on every challenge and responsibility with resilience instilling in me that same quality. She was a true representation of the phrase “you can do anything you put your mind to.” I learned early on the significance of accountability and perseverance, qualities that have guided me throughout my academic journey. These experiences shaped the man I am today, and the man I strive to be in the healthcare field. Receiving this scholarship would alleviate some of the financial burden I’ve been presented with and will be presented with in the future. It would go towards supporting a young man trying to create a positive impact on the world one patient at a time, but it starts with strengthening my knowledge, refining my skills, and gaining hands-on experience. My grandmother showed me what it means to care for others wholeheartedly and with the support of this scholarship, I will carry her legacy forward.

Hi, my name is Traedan Wise and I am currently pursuing a Bachelor’s in Nursing with a long-term goal of becoming a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. I have been enticed with a career in healthcare for as long as I can remember. It all started at my grandmother's house where I was able to truly witness what it means to care for someone everyday. She was the rock of our entire family and neighborhood. Even as she progressed in age, she never failed to be the person everyone came to for help and support. She did everything you could think without expecting a single thing in return because that's just the kind of spirit she had. What I learned from her was the true essence and importance of selfless care and compassion. My inspiration for this decision comes from her example which I choose to carry with me daily into all I become a part of. Whether that be my family life, school, or the future patients I look after once I've graduated school; her tremendous positive impact on my life will be reflected. What made her so remarkable was not only her personality but how she touched people's lives. It's like she had a strength of her own in protecting and caring for everybody, in making people feel seen and heard. She helped me to see that actual care isn't just about the medicine or the technicalities, but about the personal and emotional impact you leave on someone's life. I strive to embody those teachings everyday in the healthcare field. As I grow more and more each day, my purpose is only strengthened by my up-bringing and personal experience growing up in a single parent household. I watched my mother take on every challenge and responsibility with resilience instilling in me that same quality. She was a true representation of the phrase “you can do anything you put your mind to.” I learned early on the significance of accountability and perseverance, qualities that have guided me throughout my academic journey. These experiences shaped the man I am today, and the man I strive to be in the healthcare field. Receiving this scholarship would alleviate some of the financial burden I’ve been presented with and will be presented with in the future. It would go towards supporting a young man trying to create a positive impact on the world one patient at a time, but it starts with strengthening my knowledge, refining my skills, and gaining hands-on experience. My grandmother showed me what it means to care for others wholeheartedly and with the support of this scholarship, I will carry her legacy forward.

Hi, my name is Traedan Wise and I am currently pursuing a Bachelor’s in Nursing with a long-term goal of becoming a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. I have been enticed with a career in healthcare for as long as I can remember. It all started at my grandmother's house where I was able to truly witness what it means to care for someone everyday. She was the rock of our entire family and neighborhood. Even as she progressed in age, she never failed to be the person everyone came to for help and support. She did everything you could think without expecting a single thing in return because that's just the kind of spirit she had. What I learned from her was the true essence and importance of selfless care and compassion. My inspiration for this decision comes from her example which I choose to carry with me daily into all I become a part of. Whether that be my family life, school, or the future patients I look after once I've graduated school; her tremendous positive impact on my life will be reflected. What made her so remarkable was not only her personality but how she touched people's lives. It's like she had a strength of her own in protecting and caring for everybody, in making people feel seen and heard. She helped me to see that actual care isn't just about the medicine or the technicalities, but about the personal and emotional impact you leave on someone's life. I strive to embody those teachings everyday in the healthcare field. As I grow more and more each day, my purpose is only strengthened by my up-bringing and personal experience growing up in a single parent household. I watched my mother take on every challenge and responsibility with resilience instilling in me that same quality. She was a true representation of the phrase “you can do anything you put your mind to.” I learned early on the significance of accountability and perseverance, qualities that have guided me throughout my academic journey. These experiences shaped the man I am today, and the man I strive to be in the healthcare field. Receiving this scholarship would alleviate some of the financial burden I’ve been presented with and will be presented with in the future. It would go towards supporting a young man trying to create a positive impact on the world one patient at a time, but it starts with strengthening my knowledge, refining my skills, and gaining hands-on experience. My grandmother showed me what it means to care for others wholeheartedly and with the support of this scholarship, I will carry her legacy forward. I found this scholarship scrolling through bold.org.

2) Hi, my name is Traedan Wise and I am currently pursuing a Bachelor’s in Nursing with a long-term goal of becoming a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. I have been enticed with a career in healthcare for as long as I can remember. It all started at my grandmother's house where I was able to truly witness what it means to care for someone everyday. She was the rock of our entire family and neighborhood. Even as she progressed in age, she never failed to be the person everyone came to for help and support. She did everything you could think without expecting a single thing in return because that's just the kind of spirit she had. What I learned from her was the true essence and importance of selfless care and compassion. My inspiration for this decision comes from her example which I choose to carry with me daily into all I become a part of. Whether that be my family life, school, or the future patients I look after once I've graduated school; her tremendous positive impact on my life will be reflected. What made her so remarkable was not only her personality but how she touched people's lives. It's like she had a strength of her own in protecting and caring for everybody, in making people feel seen and heard. She helped me to see that actual care isn't just about the medicine or the technicalities, but about the personal and emotional impact you leave on someone's life. I strive to embody those teachings everyday in the healthcare field. As I grow more and more each day, my purpose is only strengthened by my up-bringing and personal experience growing up in a single parent household. I watched my mother take on every challenge and responsibility with resilience instilling in me that same quality. She was a true representation of the phrase “you can do anything you put your mind to.” I learned early on the significance of accountability and perseverance, qualities that have guided me throughout my academic journey. These experiences shaped the man I am today, and the man I strive to be in the healthcare field. Receiving this scholarship would alleviate some of the financial burden I’ve been presented with and will be presented with in the future. It would go towards supporting a young man trying to create a positive impact on the world one patient at a time, but it starts with strengthening my knowledge, refining my skills, and gaining hands-on experience. My grandmother showed me what it means to care for others wholeheartedly and with the support of this scholarship, I will carry her legacy forward.

Hi, my name is Traedan Wise and I am currently pursuing a Bachelor’s in Nursing with a long-term goal of becoming a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. I have been enticed with a career in healthcare for as long as I can remember. It all started at my grandmother's house where I was able to truly witness what it means to care for someone everyday. She was the rock of our entire family and neighborhood. Even as she progressed in age, she never failed to be the person everyone came to for help and support. She did everything you could think without expecting a single thing in return because that's just the kind of spirit she had. What I learned from her was the true essence and importance of selfless care and compassion. My inspiration for this decision comes from her example which I choose to carry with me daily into all I become a part of. Whether that be my family life, school, or the future patients I look after once I've graduated school; her tremendous positive impact on my life will be reflected. What made her so remarkable was not only her personality but how she touched people's lives. It's like she had a strength of her own in protecting and caring for everybody, in making people feel seen and heard. She helped me to see that actual care isn't just about the medicine or the technicalities, but about the personal and emotional impact you leave on someone's life. I strive to embody those teachings everyday in the healthcare field. As I grow more and more each day, my purpose is only strengthened by my up-bringing and personal experience growing up in a single parent household. I watched my mother take on every challenge and responsibility with resilience instilling in me that same quality. She was a true representation of the phrase “you can do anything you put your mind to.” I learned early on the significance of accountability and perseverance, qualities that have guided me throughout my academic journey. These experiences shaped the man I am today, and the man I strive to be in the healthcare field. Receiving this scholarship would alleviate some of the financial burden I’ve been presented with and will be presented with in the future. It would go towards supporting a young man trying to create a positive impact on the world one patient at a time, but it starts with strengthening my knowledge, refining my skills, and gaining hands-on experience. My grandmother showed me what it means to care for others wholeheartedly and with the support of this scholarship, I will carry her legacy forward.

Hi, my name is Traedan Wise and I am currently pursuing a Bachelor’s in Nursing with a long-term goal of becoming a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. I have been enticed with a career in healthcare for as long as I can remember. It all started at my grandmother's house where I was able to truly witness what it means to care for someone everyday. She was the rock of our entire family and neighborhood. Even as she progressed in age, she never failed to be the person everyone came to for help and support. She did everything you could think without expecting a single thing in return because that's just the kind of spirit she had. What I learned from her was the true essence and importance of selfless care and compassion. My inspiration for this decision comes from her example which I choose to carry with me daily into all I become a part of. Whether that be my family life, school, or the future patients I look after once I've graduated school; her tremendous positive impact on my life will be reflected. What made her so remarkable was not only her personality but how she touched people's lives. It's like she had a strength of her own in protecting and caring for everybody, in making people feel seen and heard. She helped me to see that actual care isn't just about the medicine or the technicalities, but about the personal and emotional impact you leave on someone's life. I strive to embody those teachings everyday in the healthcare field. As I grow more and more each day, my purpose is only strengthened by my up-bringing and personal experience growing up in a single parent household. I watched my mother take on every challenge and responsibility with resilience instilling in me that same quality. She was a true representation of the phrase “you can do anything you put your mind to.” I learned early on the significance of accountability and perseverance, qualities that have guided me throughout my academic journey. These experiences shaped the man I am today, and the man I strive to be in the healthcare field. Receiving this scholarship would alleviate some of the financial burden I’ve been presented with and will be presented with in the future. It would go towards supporting a young man trying to create a positive impact on the world one patient at a time, but it starts with strengthening my knowledge, refining my skills, and gaining hands-on experience. My grandmother showed me what it means to care for others wholeheartedly and with the support of this scholarship, I will carry her legacy forward.

Hi, my name is Traedan Wise and I am currently pursuing a Bachelor’s in Nursing with a long-term goal of becoming a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. I have been enticed with a career in healthcare for as long as I can remember. It all started at my grandmother's house where I was able to truly witness what it means to care for someone everyday. She was the rock of our entire family and neighborhood. Even as she progressed in age, she never failed to be the person everyone came to for help and support. She did everything you could think without expecting a single thing in return because that's just the kind of spirit she had. What I learned from her was the true essence and importance of selfless care and compassion. My inspiration for this decision comes from her example which I choose to carry with me daily into all I become a part of. Whether that be my family life, school, or the future patients I look after once I've graduated school; her tremendous positive impact on my life will be reflected. What made her so remarkable was not only her personality but how she touched people's lives. It's like she had a strength of her own in protecting and caring for everybody, in making people feel seen and heard. She helped me to see that actual care isn't just about the medicine or the technicalities, but about the personal and emotional impact you leave on someone's life. I strive to embody those teachings everyday in the healthcare field. As I grow more and more each day, my purpose is only strengthened by my up-bringing and personal experience growing up in a single parent household. I watched my mother take on every challenge and responsibility with resilience instilling in me that same quality. She was a true representation of the phrase “you can do anything you put your mind to.” I learned early on the significance of accountability and perseverance, qualities that have guided me throughout my academic journey. These experiences shaped the man I am today, and the man I strive to be in the healthcare field. Receiving this scholarship would alleviate some of the financial burden I’ve been presented with and will be presented with in the future. It would go towards supporting a young man trying to create a positive impact on the world one patient at a time, but it starts with strengthening my knowledge, refining my skills, and gaining hands-on experience. My grandmother showed me what it means to care for others wholeheartedly and with the support of this scholarship, I will carry her legacy forward.

Hi, my name is Traedan Wise and I am currently pursuing a Bachelor’s in Nursing with a long-term goal of becoming a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. I have been enticed with a career in healthcare for as long as I can remember. It all started at my grandmother's house where I was able to truly witness what it means to care for someone everyday. She was the rock of our entire family and neighborhood. Even as she progressed in age, she never failed to be the person everyone came to for help and support. She did everything you could think without expecting a single thing in return because that's just the kind of spirit she had. What I learned from her was the true essence and importance of selfless care and compassion. My inspiration for this decision comes from her example which I choose to carry with me daily into all I become a part of. Whether that be my family life, school, or the future patients I look after once I've graduated school; her tremendous positive impact on my life will be reflected. What made her so remarkable was not only her personality but how she touched people's lives. It's like she had a strength of her own in protecting and caring for everybody, in making people feel seen and heard. She helped me to see that actual care isn't just about the medicine or the technicalities, but about the personal and emotional impact you leave on someone's life. I strive to embody those teachings everyday in the healthcare field. As I grow more and more each day, my purpose is only strengthened by my up-bringing and personal experience growing up in a single parent household. I watched my mother take on every challenge and responsibility with resilience instilling in me that same quality. She was a true representation of the phrase “you can do anything you put your mind to.” I learned early on the significance of accountability and perseverance, qualities that have guided me throughout my academic journey. These experiences shaped the man I am today, and the man I strive to be in the healthcare field. Receiving this scholarship would alleviate some of the financial burden I’ve been presented with and will be presented with in the future. It would go towards supporting a young man trying to create a positive impact on the world one patient at a time, but it starts with strengthening my knowledge, refining my skills, and gaining hands-on experience. My grandmother showed me what it means to care for others wholeheartedly and with the support of this scholarship, I will carry her legacy forward.

My name is Traedan Wise and I am currently pursing my Bachelor's Degree in Nursing with the ultimate goal of being a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. As I grew up, I was always in one of two places, with my mother or with my grandmother. My mother didn't really like me being away from her much, but my grandmother's house was always a safe haven. Luckily, I was able to witness the presence of my late grandmother and how she cared for the whole family in her old age. She was truly the backbone of our household. Honestly, you would have never guessed she was 87 going on 88 years old based on how present she was in everyone’s lives. She cooked, cleaned, offered advice, and checked in on everyone, without expecting anything in return. She was the person everyone turned to, and she never turned anyone away. I never got the chance to tell her this, but watching her gave me a deep appreciation for the strength found in caregiving. My grandmother wasn’t a nurse by profession, but she genuinely had the heart and instinct of one. She inspired me to pursue nursing not because she helped others, but how she helped others and the way she made people feel afterwards. She empowered those inside and outside of our family with grace, humility, and love. There was never a day where she didn’t make me feel safe, valued, and capable. I strive to carry her example with me in everything that I do. If you can’t tell by now, nursing is more than a career path for me. It’s a calling that aligns with everything I believe in. Nurses are on the frontlines of care, not only tending to physical needs but also offering emotional support and education for health concerns. The unique position nurses hold allow them countless opportunities to empower others. Whether it’s explaining a new diagnosis in simpler terms, helping a patient understand their medical routine, or just being there to listen when times are scary, nurses help patients reclaim control over their lives. That kind of empowerment does more than just improve one’s health. It can go as far as changing someone’s life. To make long story short, that is the kind of nurse I aspire to be. Someone who gives patients the confidence and knowledge to move forward in the face of fear and unsureness, like my grandmother did for me.

My name is Traedan Wise and I am currently pursing my Bachelor's Degree in Nursing with the ultimate goal of being a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. As I grew up, I was always in one of two places, with my mother or with my grandmother. My mother didn't really like me being away from her much, but my grandmother's house was always a safe haven. Luckily, I was able to witness the presence of my late grandmother and how she cared for the whole family in her old age. She was truly the backbone of our household. Honestly, you would have never guessed she was 87 going on 88 years old based on how present she was in everyone’s lives. She cooked, cleaned, offered advice, and checked in on everyone, without expecting anything in return. She was the person everyone turned to, and she never turned anyone away. I never got the chance to tell her this, but watching her gave me a deep appreciation for the strength found in caregiving. My grandmother wasn’t a nurse by profession, but she genuinely had the heart and instinct of one. She inspired me to pursue nursing not because she helped others, but how she helped others and the way she made people feel afterwards. She empowered those inside and outside of our family with grace, humility, and love. There was never a day where she didn’t make me feel safe, valued, and capable. I strive to carry her example with me in everything that I do. If you can’t tell by now, nursing is more than a career path for me. It’s a calling that aligns with everything I believe in. Nurses are on the frontlines of care, not only tending to physical needs but also offering emotional support and education for health concerns. The unique position nurses hold allow them countless opportunities to empower others. Whether it’s explaining a new diagnosis in simpler terms, helping a patient understand their medical routine, or just being there to listen when times are scary, nurses help patients reclaim control over their lives. That kind of empowerment does more than just improve one’s health. It can go as far as changing someone’s life. To make long story short, that is the kind of nurse I aspire to be. Someone who gives patients the confidence and knowledge to move forward in the face of fear and unsureness, like my grandmother did for me. My grandmother really lit a fire inside me for helping other's. It really took a lot from me when she passed and it was really hard to see how to move forward. At the time, I was a junior in high school who loved to play basketball, so I decided to put my two loves together to honor the name of my grandmother. My teammates and I setup a canned food drive to help those in the Houston community. Everyday after practice, we would stay for a couple of hours allowing cars to drive through and drop off what they could give. After two weeks of doing this, we took all of our goods and donations to the nearest food bank. It didn't completely fill the whole that was left by my grandmother's passing, but it gave me a warm feeling knowing she would be pleased with me looking down from heaven.

Learning life lessons is essential for personal growth and development. The origins of the lessons aren’t always read from textbooks or heard in classrooms. More often than not, they come from people we care about most. For me, one of the most important lessons I’ve ever learned came from my grandmother, Mary Coger. She was known as a resilient, proud Black woman who looked after me during the summers of my childhood. When she passed a few years ago, it left a vast void in my life that no one else could fill. Although she was gone, she left behind something valuable. A lesson about strength, kindness, and a quiet resilience that can affect families for generations. Every summer, I would stay and visit with my grandmother. These are still some of the happiest memories of my life. While other kids see summer as a time for vacations and camps, mine was the opportunity to spend time with my grandmother. To me, this was three months filled with conversations on the porch, home cooked meals, and stories from a woman who had been through it all. She was way more than just someone who looked after me. She was a teacher, a role model, and one of my most trusted friends honestly. Looking back, I realize those summers weren’t just about keeping me entertained and fed. I see now that they were about helping me grow, one step at a time, with love, discipline, and understanding. My grandmother’s life wasn’t the easiest to say the least. As a Black woman who lived through the struggles of racism, poverty, and personal loss, she had every reason to be angry at the world or just bitter in general. However, that wasn’t her by any means. She spent most of her life working in a home and serving others for the pure joy of it. She wanted to witness the smile planted on others faces due to her efforts to make their lives easier. She was kind when others were cruel, patient when others were the opposite, and gentle even when life had a difficult time being fair. She showed me, just by being who she was, that real strength isn’t about being tough. It’s about being open, even when the world tries to shut you out. What impressed me most was how she made people feel. Whether she was cooking the family's favorite broccoli and cheese casserole, or sitting on the porch with her hand sitting on my shoulder, she made me feel safe. She made me feel like I mattered. She had a way of turning even the most minimal moments into something meaningful. I didn’t realize it then, but she was teaching me what real love looks like. She did so not with just words, but with action. Since she passed, I’ve often felt really lost and unsure of what to do. When that happens, I think back on those summers. I remember her voice, the way she used to sit on the couch and watch her programs, as she would call them, and how she always seemed to know what I needed even if I never said it out loud. I keep those memories close, and I carry her teachings with me. She showed me that being a good person isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being there for theres, being kind in a world of those who are ugly, and having the strength to care even when it’s difficult.

My name is Traedan Wise and I am currently pursing my Bachelor's Degree in Nursing with the ultimate goal of being a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. As I grew up, I was always in one of two places, with my mother or with my grandmother. My mother didn't really like me being away from her much, but my grandmother's house was always a safe haven. Luckily, I was able to witness the presence of my late grandmother and how she cared for the whole family in her old age. She was truly the backbone of our household. Honestly, you would have never guessed she was 87 going on 88 years old based on how present she was in everyone’s lives. She cooked, cleaned, offered advice, and checked in on everyone, without expecting anything in return. She was the person everyone turned to, and she never turned anyone away. I never got the chance to tell her this, but watching her gave me a deep appreciation for the strength found in caregiving. My grandmother wasn’t a nurse by profession, but she genuinely had the heart and instinct of one. She inspired me to pursue nursing not because she helped others, but how she helped others and the way she made people feel afterwards. She empowered those inside and outside of our family with grace, humility, and love. There was never a day where she didn’t make me feel safe, valued, and capable. I strive to carry her example with me in everything that I do. If you can’t tell by now, nursing is more than a career path for me. It’s a calling that aligns with everything I believe in. Nurses are on the frontlines of care, not only tending to physical needs but also offering emotional support and education for health concerns. The unique position nurses hold allow them countless opportunities to empower others. Whether it’s explaining a new diagnosis in simpler terms, helping a patient understand their medical routine, or just being there to listen when times are scary, nurses help patients reclaim control over their lives. That kind of empowerment does more than just improve one’s health. It can go as far as changing someone’s life. To make long story short, that is the kind of nurse I aspire to be. Someone who gives patients the confidence and knowledge to move forward in the face of fear and unsureness, like my grandmother did for me. This scholarship will lighten the financial load for my mother and I, and allow for me to share the same love and passion my grandmother had with the thousands of patients i'll tend to during my life time.

Hi, my name is Traedan Wise and I am currently a sophomore in college working to gain my Bachelors in Nursing. My end goal is to become a CRNA, and use my grandmother's teachings to help people make their world a better place for them. Every summer, I would stay and visit with my grandmother. These are still some of the happiest memories of my life. While other kids see summer as a time for vacations and camps, mine was the opportunity to spend time with my grandmother. To me, this was three months filled with conversations on the porch, home cooked meals, and stories from a woman who had been through it all. She was way more than just someone who looked after me. She was a teacher, a role model, and one of my most trusted friends honestly. Looking back, I realize those summers weren’t just about keeping me entertained and fed. I see now that they were about helping me grow, one step at a time, with love, discipline, and understanding. My grandmother’s life wasn’t the easiest to say the least. As a Black woman who lived through the struggles of racism, poverty, and personal loss, she had every reason to be angry at the world or just bitter in general. However, that wasn’t her by any means. She spent most of her life working in a home and serving others for the pure joy of it. She wanted to witness the smile planted on others faces due to her efforts to make their lives easier. She was kind when others were cruel, patient when others were the opposite, and gentle even when life had a difficult time being fair. She showed me, just by being who she was, that real strength isn’t about being tough. It’s about being open, even when the world tries to shut you out. What impressed me most was how she made people feel. Whether she was cooking the family's favorite broccoli and cheese casserole, or sitting on the porch with her hand sitting on my shoulder, she made me feel safe. She made me feel like I mattered. She had a way of turning even the most minimal moments into something meaningful. I didn’t realize it then, but she was teaching me what real love looks like. She did so not with just words, but with action. Since she passed, I’ve often felt really lost and unsure of what to do. When that happens, I think back on those summers. I remember her voice, the way she used to sit on the couch and watch her programs, as she would call them, and how she always seemed to know what I needed even if I never said it out loud. I keep those memories close, and I carry her teachings with me. She showed me that being a good person isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being there for theres, being kind in a world of those who are ugly, and having the strength to care even when it’s difficult. That lesson helped shape the man I am today, and I want to share it with others, just like she did with me.

My name is Traedan Wise and I am currently pursing my Bachelor's Degree in Nursing with the ultimate goal of being a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. As I grew up, I was always in one of two places, with my mother or with my grandmother. My mother didn't really like me being away from her much, but my grandmother's house was always a safe haven. Luckily, I was able to witness the presence of my late grandmother and how she cared for the whole family in her old age. She was truly the backbone of our household. Honestly, you would have never guessed she was 87 going on 88 years old based on how present she was in everyone’s lives. She cooked, cleaned, offered advice, and checked in on everyone, without expecting anything in return. She was the person everyone turned to, and she never turned anyone away. I never got the chance to tell her this, but watching her gave me a deep appreciation for the strength found in caregiving. My grandmother wasn’t a nurse by profession, but she genuinely had the heart and instinct of one. She inspired me to pursue nursing not because she helped others, but how she helped others and the way she made people feel afterwards. She empowered those inside and outside of our family with grace, humility, and love. There was never a day where she didn’t make me feel safe, valued, and capable. I strive to carry her example with me in everything that I do. If you can’t tell by now, nursing is more than a career path for me. It’s a calling that aligns with everything I believe in. Nurses are on the frontlines of care, not only tending to physical needs but also offering emotional support and education for health concerns. The unique position nurses hold allow them countless opportunities to empower others. Whether it’s explaining a new diagnosis in simpler terms, helping a patient understand their medical routine, or just being there to listen when times are scary, nurses help patients reclaim control over their lives. That kind of empowerment does more than just improve one’s health. It can go as far as changing someone’s life. To make long story short, that is the kind of nurse I aspire to be. Someone who gives patients the confidence and knowledge to move forward in the face of fear and unsureness, like my grandmother did for me.

Seventy percent of adolescents in America come from households containing a loving mother and father who both have jobs and work together to raise their offspring. When thinking about a standard American family, this is the principal idea most would imagine. I would not call myself less of an American considering I am a part of the thirty percent that come from a one parent household with a loving mother who carried the burden of successfully filling both parent roles. However, taking into account most kids come from two parent households, I was and still am at a disadvantage. Being in a challenging situation, as the one stated previously, instills character traits in oneself that affect the way you view the world and treat others. Seeing my mother fulfill my needs and requests solely by herself allowed me to experience firsthand determination and independence. My attitude towards schoolwork, basketball, and other countless activities derived from watching her. I always see things through no matter how difficult or strenuous they become. My name is Traedan Wise and I am currently pursing my Bachelor's Degree in Nursing with the ultimate goal of being a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. As I grew up, I was always in one of two places, with my mother or with my grandmother. Luckily, I was able to witness the presence of my late grandmother and how she cared for the whole family in her old age. She was truly the backbone of our household. Honestly, you would have never guessed she was 87 going on 88 years old based on how present she was in everyone’s lives. She cooked, cleaned, offered advice, and checked in on everyone, without expecting anything in return. She was the person everyone turned to, and she never turned anyone away. I never got the chance to tell her this, but watching her gave me a deep appreciation for the strength found in caregiving. My grandmother wasn’t a nurse by profession, but she genuinely had the heart and instinct of one. She inspired me to pursue nursing not because she helped others, but how she helped others and the way she made people feel afterwards. She empowered those inside and outside of our family with grace, humility, and love. There was never a day where she didn’t make me feel safe, valued, and capable. I strive to carry her example with me in everything that I do. If you can’t tell by now, nursing is more than a career path for me. It’s a calling that aligns with everything I believe in. Nurses are on the frontlines of care, not only tending to physical needs but also offering emotional support and education for health concerns. The unique position nurses hold allow them countless opportunities to empower others. Whether it’s explaining a new diagnosis in simpler terms, helping a patient understand their medical routine, or just being there to listen when times are scary, nurses help patients reclaim control over their lives. That kind of empowerment does more than just improve one’s health. It can go as far as changing someone’s life. That is the kind of nurse I aspire to be. Someone who gives patients the confidence and knowledge to move forward in the face of fear and unsureness, like my grandmother did for me.

My name is Traedan Wise and I am currently pursing my Bachelor's Degree in Nursing with the ultimate goal of being a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. As I grew up, I was always in one of two places, with my mother or with my grandmother. My mother didn't really like me being away from her much, but my grandmother's house was always a safe haven. Luckily, I was able to witness the presence of my late grandmother and how she cared for the whole family in her old age. She was truly the backbone of our household. Honestly, you would have never guessed she was 87 going on 88 years old based on how present she was in everyone’s lives. She cooked, cleaned, offered advice, and checked in on everyone, without expecting anything in return. She was the person everyone turned to, and she never turned anyone away. I never got the chance to tell her this, but watching her gave me a deep appreciation for the strength found in caregiving. My grandmother wasn’t a nurse by profession, but she genuinely had the heart and instinct of one. She inspired me to pursue nursing not because she helped others, but how she helped others and the way she made people feel afterwards. She empowered those inside and outside of our family with grace, humility, and love. There was never a day where she didn’t make me feel safe, valued, and capable. I strive to carry her example with me in everything that I do. If you can’t tell by now, nursing is more than a career path for me. It’s a calling that aligns with everything I believe in. Nurses are on the frontlines of care, not only tending to physical needs but also offering emotional support and education for health concerns. The unique position nurses hold allow them countless opportunities to empower others. Whether it’s explaining a new diagnosis in simpler terms, helping a patient understand their medical routine, or just being there to listen when times are scary, nurses help patients reclaim control over their lives. That kind of empowerment does more than just improve one’s health. It can go as far as changing someone’s life. To make long story short, that is the kind of nurse I aspire to be. Someone who gives patients the confidence and knowledge to move forward in the face of fear and unsureness, like my grandmother did for me.

Growing up, it was just me and my mom—moving from apartment to apartment, doing the best we could with what we had. My father was never part of the picture, and for most of my life, he was behind bars. But even in the midst of uncertainty, my mother—a strong Black woman who earned her college degree against the odds—taught me how to believe in myself, how to fight for my future, and how to carry myself with quiet strength. She is the reason I’m in college today, and my late grandmother is the reason I chose nursing. She instilled in me the desire to care for others, to serve with compassion, and to always be someone others could lean on. I carry her with me in every class I attend and every patient I hope to one day serve as a future CRNA. Academically, I’ve pushed myself to rise above my circumstances. I’m a National Merit Scholar and earned honors like 1st Team All-District, 2nd Team All-District, and Academic All-District while playing basketball all four years of high school. I’ve volunteered at food banks, dialysis clinics, and youth basketball camps—not because I had to, but because I want to give back to the very communities that helped raise me. But no matter how hard I’ve worked, the cost of college continues to be a heavy weight. This scholarship wouldn’t just ease that burden—it would bring me one step closer to fulfilling the promises I’ve made: to my mom, to my grandmother’s legacy, and to the people I’ll serve in my future career. What sets me apart isn’t just my GPA or my goals. It’s my why. I’m not pursuing this path for prestige or recognition. I’m doing it to break cycles, to prove that where you come from doesn’t have to determine where you end up, and to use everything I’ve learned to make a difference in someone else’s life. This scholarship would be more than financial help.m It would be belief in the journey of someone who refuses to give up.

Reality dating shows like Love Island often focus on physical attraction, dramatic recouplings, and playful competitions. But what if one challenge encouraged real vulnerability and deeper emotional connections? That’s where my original challenge, “Heartstrings Unplugged,” comes in a game that combines creativity, emotional depth, and anonymity to help Islanders connect on a more meaningful level. The premise of the challenge is simple, yet powerful. Each Islander is asked to write a short poem, song, or spoken-word piece based on a past romantic experience—whether that be heartbreak, unrequited love, or a meaningful lesson learned. They are given time alone to reflect and write, completely unplugged from distractions. Their final piece must be no more than sixteen lines, keeping it concise but impactful. What sets this challenge apart is that all entries are submitted anonymously. Instead of performing the pieces themselves, a narrator, either the show’s voiceover host or a special guest reads each one aloud to the group. After each performance, the Islanders must guess who they believe wrote the piece. This twist removes preconceived biases and forces everyone to focus solely on the emotional content rather than the identity of the speaker. At the end of the challenge, the authors are revealed one by one, often resulting in surprise, newfound respect, or even romantic sparks between unexpected people. There’s also a special “Heartstring Match” round: Islanders privately vote for the piece they connected with most emotionally. The author and the top voter (if they’re not already a couple) are rewarded with a special off-camera date under the stars just the two of them, unplugged, for fifteen uninterrupted minutes. This challenge matters because it brings something rare to the world of reality TV: intentional vulnerability. It shows that love isn’t just built on flirtation or physical chemistry, but also on emotional understanding. By removing performance pressure and adding anonymity, Islanders are more likely to open up authentically. The audience, in turn, gets to see a side of the contestants that isn’t filtered through gameplay or glamor. “Heartstrings Unplugged” redefines what it means to build a connection. It challenges the typical format of dating shows by prioritizing honesty and emotional intimacy. In doing so, it proves that the most powerful tool in the search for love isn’t a villa or a fire pit, it’s the courage to speak from the heart.

Seventy percent of adolescents in America come from households containing a loving mother and father who both have jobs and work together to raise their offspring. When thinking about a standard American family, this is the principal idea most would imagine. I would not call myself less of an American considering I am a part of the thirty percent that come from a one parent household with a loving mother who carried the burden of successfully filling both parent roles. However, taking into account most kids come from two parent households, I was and still am at a disadvantage. Being in a challenging situation, as the one stated previously, instills character traits in oneself that affect the way you view the world and treat others. Seeing my mother fulfill my needs and requests solely by herself allowed me to experience firsthand determination and independence. My attitude towards schoolwork, basketball, and other countless activities derived from watching her. I always see things through no matter how difficult or strenuous they become. Ever since I can remember, I have always had a love for basketball, and it is a big part of my identity today. From playing in different environments to learning to adapt quickly, I have gleaned a numerous amount of my qualities from the game. Things like teamwork, leadership, and so on are all implanted inside me from years of playing. It also taught me that hard work pays off. If you want something and you work for it, the result directly impacts how much work was put in to reach your goal. Accepting criticism, being able to analyze myself for flaws, and working to correct those flaws all originate from basketball. Not only did these traits better my overall play on the court but helped me to improve my character and life as well. Now that you know a little bit about me, it's time that you discover my need for this scholarship. As I grew up, I was lucky enough to witness the presence of my late grandmother and how she cared for the whole family in her old age. She was truly the backbone of our household. Honestly, you would have never guessed she was 87 going on 88 years old based on how present she was in everyone’s lives. She cooked, cleaned, offered advice, and checked in on everyone, without expecting anything in return. She was the person everyone turned to, and she never turned anyone away. I never got the chance to tell her this, but watching her gave me a deep appreciation for the strength found in caregiving. My grandmother wasn’t a nurse by profession, but she genuinely had the heart and instinct of one. She inspired me to pursue nursing not because she helped others, but how she helped others and the way she made people feel afterwards. She empowered those inside and outside of our family with grace, humility, and love. There was never a day where she didn’t make me feel safe, valued, and capable. I strive to carry her example with me in everything that I do. I truly need this scholarship to advance on the ladder of my career goals and to spread the teachings of my late grandmother throughout the community.

As I grew up, I was always in one of two places, with my mother or with my grandmother. Luckily, I was able to witness the presence of my late grandmother and how she cared for the whole family in her old age. She was truly the backbone of our household. Honestly, you would have never guessed she was 87 going on 88 years old based on how present she was in everyone’s lives. She cooked, cleaned, offered advice, and checked in on everyone, without expecting anything in return. She was the person everyone turned to, and she never turned anyone away. I never got the chance to tell her this, but watching her gave me a deep appreciation for the strength found in caregiving. My grandmother wasn’t a nurse by profession, but she genuinely had the heart and instinct of one. She inspired me to pursue nursing not because she helped others, but how she helped others and the way she made people feel afterwards. She empowered those inside and outside of our family with grace, humility, and love. There was never a day where she didn’t make me feel safe, valued, and capable. I strive to carry her example with me in everything that I do. If you can’t tell, nursing is more than a career path for me. It’s a calling that aligns with everything I believe in. Nurses are on the frontlines of care, not only tending to physical needs but also offering emotional support and education for health concerns. The unique position nurses hold allow them countless opportunities to empower others. Whether it’s explaining a new diagnosis in simpler terms, helping a patient understand their medical routine, or just being there to listen when times are scary, nurses help patients reclaim control over their lives. That kind of empowerment does more than just improve one’s health. It can go as far as changing someone’s life. That is the kind of nurse I aspire to be. Someone who gives patients the confidence and knowledge to move forward in the face of fear and unsureness, like my grandmother did for me.

Seventy percent of adolescents in America come from households containing a loving mother and father who both have jobs and work together to raise their offspring. When thinking about a standard American family, this is the principal idea most would imagine. I would not call myself less of an American considering I am a part of the thirty percent that come from a one parent household with a loving mother who carried the burden of successfully filling both parent roles. However, taking into account most kids come from two parent households, I was and still am at a disadvantage. Being in a challenging situation, as the one stated previously, instills character traits in oneself that affect the way you view the world and treat others. Seeing my mother fulfill my needs and requests solely by herself allowed me to experience firsthand determination and independence. My attitude towards schoolwork, basketball, and other countless activities derived from watching her. I always see things through no matter how difficult or strenuous they become. As I grew up, I was always in one of two places, with my mother or with my grandmother. Luckily, I was able to witness the presence of my late grandmother and how she cared for the whole family in her old age. She was truly the backbone of our household. Honestly, you would have never guessed she was 87 going on 88 years old based on how present she was in everyone’s lives. She cooked, cleaned, offered advice, and checked in on everyone, without expecting anything in return. She was the person everyone turned to, and she never turned anyone away. I never got the chance to tell her this, but watching her gave me a deep appreciation for the strength found in caregiving. My grandmother wasn’t a nurse by profession, but she genuinely had the heart and instinct of one. She inspired me to pursue nursing not because she helped others, but how she helped others and the way she made people feel afterwards. She empowered those inside and outside of our family with grace, humility, and love. There was never a day where she didn’t make me feel safe, valued, and capable. I strive to carry her example with me in everything that I do. If you can’t tell by now, nursing is more than a career path for me. It’s a calling that aligns with everything I believe in. Nurses are on the frontlines of care, not only tending to physical needs but also offering emotional support and education for health concerns. The unique position nurses hold allow them countless opportunities to empower others. Whether it’s explaining a new diagnosis in simpler terms, helping a patient understand their medical routine, or just being there to listen when times are scary, nurses help patients reclaim control over their lives. That kind of empowerment does more than just improve one’s health. It can go as far as changing someone’s life. That is the kind of nurse I aspire to be. Someone who gives patients the confidence and knowledge to move forward in the face of fear and unsureness, like my grandmother did for me.

Seventy percent of adolescents in America come from households containing a loving mother and father who both have jobs and work together to raise their offspring. When thinking about a standard American family, this is the principal idea most would imagine. I would not call myself less of an American considering I am a part of the thirty percent that come from a one parent household with a loving mother who carried the burden of successfully filling both parent roles. However, taking into account most kids come from two parent households, I was and still am at a disadvantage. Being in a challenging situation, as the one stated previously, instills character traits in oneself that affect the way you view the world and treat others. Seeing my mother fulfill my needs and requests solely by herself allowed me to experience firsthand determination and independence. My attitude towards schoolwork, basketball, and other countless activities derived from watching her. I always see things through no matter how difficult or strenuous they become. As I grew up, I was always in one of two places, with my mother or with my grandmother. Luckily, I was able to witness the presence of my late grandmother and how she cared for the whole family in her old age. She was truly the backbone of our household. Honestly, you would have never guessed she was 87 going on 88 years old based on how present she was in everyone’s lives. She cooked, cleaned, offered advice, and checked in on everyone, without expecting anything in return. She was the person everyone turned to, and she never turned anyone away. I never got the chance to tell her this, but watching her gave me a deep appreciation for the strength found in caregiving. My grandmother wasn’t a nurse by profession, but she genuinely had the heart and instinct of one. She inspired me to pursue nursing not because she helped others, but how she helped others and the way she made people feel afterwards. She empowered those inside and outside of our family with grace, humility, and love. There was never a day where she didn’t make me feel safe, valued, and capable. I strive to carry her example with me in everything that I do. If you can’t tell by now, nursing is more than a career path for me. It’s a calling that aligns with everything I believe in. Nurses are on the frontlines of care, not only tending to physical needs but also offering emotional support and education for health concerns. The unique position nurses hold allow them countless opportunities to empower others. Whether it’s explaining a new diagnosis in simpler terms, helping a patient understand their medical routine, or just being there to listen when times are scary, nurses help patients reclaim control over their lives. That kind of empowerment does more than just improve one’s health. It can go as far as changing someone’s life. That is the kind of nurse I aspire to be. Someone who gives patients the confidence and knowledge to move forward in the face of fear and unsureness, like my grandmother did for me.

Throughout my life, I have experienced various situations and challenges, but these encounters contribute significantly to the person I profoundly identify myself as today. Being raised exclusively by my mother gave me access to certain characteristics displayed by her while I was growing up. Other experiences like playing sports allowed me to thrive in unfamiliar environments and obtain traits that play an exceptional role in my identity. Recently, I stumbled upon an interest in music. It allows me to express myself and communicate my circumstances in a creative fashion. Seventy percent of adolescents in America come from households containing a loving mother and father who both have jobs and work together to raise their offspring. When thinking about a standard American family, this is the principal idea most would imagine. I would not call myself less of an American considering I am a part of the thirty percent that come from a one parent household with a loving mother who carried the burden of successfully filling both parent roles. However, taking into account most kids come from two parent households, I was and still am at a disadvantage. Being in a challenging situation, as the one stated previously, instills character traits in oneself that affect the way you view the world and treat others. Seeing my mother fulfill my needs and requests solely by herself allowed me to experience firsthand determination and independence. My attitude towards schoolwork, basketball, and other countless activities derived from watching her. I always see things through no matter how difficult or strenuous they become. Although being independent is a key trait to have, asking for help and working with others are also important qualities to possess. Ever since I can remember, I have always had a love for basketball, and it is a big part of my identity today. From playing in different environments to learning to adapt quickly, I have gleaned a numerous amount of my qualities from the game. Things like teamwork, leadership, and so on are all implanted inside me from years of playing. It also taught me that hard work pays off. If you want something and you work for it, the result directly impacts how much work was put in to reach your goal. Accepting criticism, being able to analyze myself for flaws, and working to correct those flaws all originate from basketball. Not only did these traits better my overall play on the court but helped me to improve my character and life as well. I first became entertained with the thought of being involved in music around fourteen. At the time, there was not any concrete reason for it, I was just amazed at the fact that I could make something on my own. Now, I see making music as one of my creative outlets. It allows me the freedom to speak and be the person I want to be. Creating music enables me to understand myself better and unlock doors that had never been opened before. Characteristics like creativity, attention to detail, and being prideful of who I am are all contributions from me participating in a harmless hobby. I have gone through many events in my life that equipped me with established traits and permitted me to observe myself deeply and improve my character. Although from a distance some of these experiences seem negative, I am immensely proud of them because they are a part of who I am and make up my identity I present every day. These teachings and experiences have influenced me to go into the healthcare field and help others.

One of the most meaningful and empowering experiences I’ve had the joy of participating in was volunteering at my local dialysis clinic. When I first started, I honestly didn’t know what to expect. I thought I would be completing small tasks like getting patients checked in and settled, or making sure all the equipment and inventory was organized. I had no idea that I would eventually leave the place establishing deep and real connections with some of the patients. Many of the patients that I met came in 3 times a week for hours at a time. Some of them were elders of the community and had been on dialysis for years. As time passed, I began remembering names, their family lives, and stories they told each visit. Dialysis for them was a major part of their lives and some of them had to go through it by themselves. One afternoon, I sat with a woman who had just finished her treatment. She seemed exhausted and quiet so I asked if it was okay if I sat with her. After enjoying each other’s company for a few minutes, I’ll never forget what she said to me. She said, “I think people forget that I’m human when they see these machines, but I appreciate you for remembering.” From my perspective, I was just giving her some entertainment while she waited, but to her it meant way more. I realized then that empowerment can come from any gesture no matter the size. It can come from just being present, and showing someone that you care. My grandmother is truly one of the main reasons I have this deep passion for nursing. She was like a hero without a cape to me. She never wore scrubs and any type of uniform that held a professional title, but she was the most powerful caregiver I’ve ever known. She taught me that strength is quiet but consistent, love is shown through action, and that real empowerment comes from lifting others up, especially when they can’t find the strength to do it themselves. Even when her body was failing her in the later years, she continued to uphold a standard for caring and taking care of our family and others who weren't necessarily blood related, but felt like it. She believed that God put her on this earth specifically to care for people and that belief lives on through me. Every time I show up for someone in need, I feel as if I’m honoring her legacy and I will continue to do so until I physically can’t anymore. She is the reason I believe so deeply in empowerment, and why I’m committing to bringing that belief into my nursing career.