Nursing appeals to me because it is about science, caring and connection to your fellow human beings. I am always fascinated with biology and the human body, and I love how science can contribute to people's health and quality of life. At the same time, I admire healthcare professionals who not only treat illnesses, but also provide comfort, reassurance and hope during some of the most difficult times in life. I want to be a person who patients can trust—someone who listens to them, advocates for them and helps them recover physically and emotionally. Nursing is more than a stable job I do, it is a profession that helps me to make a difference in people and families every day. I have not had an easy path to this place. I came from Vietnam to the United States as an international student in order to get a better education. The language and culture (and education system) were changing and for that reason I learned to adapt and to keep working. So instead of letting the obstacles get in the way of me, I used them as motivation to keep going. I maintained a 4.0 GPA the whole way through and I graduated as the valedictorian of the Class of 2025–2026. In addition to that, I won several awards in biology competitions and got recognition for STEM. Through my accomplishments, I developed my love of science and my ability to think critically, solve problems and stay motivated towards future goals. They also confirmed that nursing is the ideal career for me because it is well suited to my academic interest and my ability to help others. I worked outside the classroom to supplement my education and to help pay for tuition and living expenses part-time. As an international student, the cost of education is a heavy burden to my family and I tried to do what I could to help them. To get good grades while working, you need to be disciplined, organized and have time management skills. From these experiences, I learned to remain calm under pressure, prioritize tasks and focus on your job even when things get difficult—and that’s what you need to have if you are going to do well in nursing. My ultimate goal is to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, become a registered nurse, and eventually specialize in emergency medicine or critical care. Quick decision-making, teamwork and compassion are key to these specialties and what I want to do is work with the patient in real-time situations and when they are really under pressure. As I grow in experience, I also want to get advanced nursing certifications and expand my knowledge and practice of nursing to give my patients the highest quality care. Though I have not yet had the opportunity to work in the field of clinical practice with internships or hospital volunteering as a nurse, I have been preparing for a career in healthcare. I have taken science courses, worked in biology and STEM, and studied our nursing profession from educational resources and discussions with healthcare workers. Nursing, for me, is lifelong learning, empathy, resilience and dedication. My academic achievements, leading my graduating class as valedictorian in biology and STEM, as well as my work ethic and determination to work hard, have laid the foundation for my career. I am excited to continue to learn more about how to care for people and to develop my clinical skills and compassion so I can be a good nurse who will make a difference in the lives of patients and their families.

Vy: I was born in a small province of Vietnam and grew up in a family that was poor. I grew up in an education-based environment from a very young age. My parents were full of opportunities they never had, so I got to go to school only until middle school and my father was in high school and could not continue his studies. I had watched my parents work hard all my life to provide for my family. They sacrificed their own comfort so that my brother and I could have better opportunities. Their dedication motivated me to take my education seriously. I knew that every opportunity I got was because of their hard work and I never wanted to let them down. I am a Southeast Asian immigrant and I am what I am today. Coming to America from Vietnam and learning a new language and culture and education system changed me. I was a shy person at first and often felt lonely. But I also learned from them to be independent and fight through uncertainty. I was inspired to pursue a career in Nursing by these experiences. I have always admired healthcare professionals because they care for people during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. I know how important kindness and support are and how hard it is to adapt to a new environment as I have experienced it. I want to be a nurse so that I can help others, advocate for patients, and make a difference for my community. I’ve had so much financial burden with my studies in the U.S.; tuition and living expenses are so expensive and I know my parents sacrificed so much for my education. So I worked part-time while I was in college. I paid for rent, tuition, and other expenses. Work and study can be difficult. I got physically and mentally drained at times and I survived that because I knew how much my education had to do with my family and my future. What made this a difficult challenge was that I tried to keep my stress hidden from my parents. I didn’t want them to be worried because I knew they were already doing so much for me. I tried to stay positive when I was overwhelmed, when talking to them. This taught me responsibility, perseverance, and emotional strength. I love to do things outside of school and work that allow me to express my creativity. I love abstract painting and I do a lot of painting when free from school and I spend so much time on it and practice and improve my artistic skills and love doing it. I am also a good cook and I watch YouTube videos when I can and make things at home and learn new recipes and recreate things. My journey has been one of hard work and determination, work and struggle. I am a Southeast Asian immigrant and I am the product of my parents’ values: resilience, gratitude, and a dedication to education. And so every day I have to fight on my way to become a nurse and to make a better future for myself, my family, and the communities in which I want to serve.

Why should we consider you for this scholarship? I have always thought success is not a matter of where I start, but how hard I’m willing to work to get there. Being the first and only student in Vietnam to go to the USA, I have been challenged academically and personally, as well as in my life. I am a fighter, hardworking person, and I want to work hard for my dreams and stay in business from the beginning so I will have a shot at this scholarship. From an early age, I had a passion for learning. In Vietnam, where I went to middle school, I always had the best students and was always the top student. In science, I loved it most, biology in particular, because it allowed me to see the world and solve real-world problems. In eighth grade, I took Second Place in the District Biology Competition, one of my earliest accomplishments. The next year, I was selected to represent my school as part of the team of best students in the City-Level Academic Competition. I worked hard and succeeded in biology and took Third Place. When I got to high school, I was still determined to challenge myself. I was second in my class in tenth grade in terms of grades. I won First Place in my school's Biology Competition in the eleventh grade. I wanted to go beyond classroom learning to apply scientific knowledge to the real world. So I participated in a school STEM competition where I designed and developed a borax-testing paper with cheap and easily available materials. I had to do this at home and in my home lab. The project aimed to provide a simple way of detecting borax in food products, and that is an issue that is directly connected with public health and safety. The Second Place we were recognized for was to see how creativity, innovation, and scientific thinking can be applied to solve real-world problems. I have always been very active in extracurricular activities, so it is true that I’ve always had a big emphasis on school. I got awards for my dance skills in Vietnam, I did school dance competitions, and I learned discipline, collaboration, and confidence. I’ve learned to be creative, to be creative in my work with others to achieve the goal. These experiences have formed me in leadership and communication skills that I can take with me the next step forward and the way I work and the way I speak and work today. And one of the most significant life-changing decisions I made was to continue my education in the US. Leaving my family, friends, and settled life was a tough one. Although I had already been in Vietnam for high school (I finished the 13th grade), I decided to return and redo the 11th grade in America to learn English well and to be integrated into the school system. When I first arrived, many challenges came my way. I was not fluent in English, and I often did not get that classroom conversation and assignment as well as cultural references. Everything seemed foreign to me, from the way classes were taught to what students were expected to do. But I refused to let these challenges define my future. I regarded them instead as opportunities for growth. I spent hours and hours studying and improving my English and seeking help when necessary. Gradually but surely, I came to know I could do anything. I had a perfect 4.0 GPA and was on the Honor Roll despite my language issues. I also did really well in U.S. History: it was an intensive subject consisting of reading, writing, and critical thinking in a language other than my own. In addition to being a student, I was also very active in my new community. In addition to art classes to stay creative and attend professional hip-hop dance classes, this helped me to meet people from different backgrounds and to continue to develop my artistic skills. I also participated in school events and competitions as often as I could. My family and I faced financial strain alongside the academic and cultural challenges. As an international student, I was denied many kinds of financial support from my home country, as I was not eligible for financial aid from my home. High school at home in the US was very expensive, costing about $50,000 for two years of study. I was a good student, and I got good grades, but I didn’t have any financial help; my parents sacrificed so much money to continue my education. My parents’ dedication and sacrifice became my biggest motivation. Every late night spent studying and every struggle I faced made it clear that their efforts were at the top of my list. Their faith in me motivated me to work hard and to take advantage of every opportunity in education. By the time I graduated, I had kept my 4.0 GPA and was selected as Valedictorian of the Class of 2025-2026. I also scored 1330 on the SAT, indicating my aptitude for college-level study. These accomplishments are the result of years of hard work and perseverance, of resilience. But more importantly, they are a story of a student who was willing to risk not knowing, overcome obstacles, and always work hard. I hope you consider me for this scholarship because my achievements are not just grades, awards, and test scores. I am hardworking, adaptable, a leader, and have a strong passion for education. I have always been challenged to improve myself academically, creatively, and personally. With this scholarship, I will be able to continue to pursue higher education and bring down the cost not only on my family but also to give back to the communities that have supported me throughout my journey. I am committed to making the best of every opportunity I get, and I will never forget them.

How do you plan to make a positive impact on the world? If I had to answer this question a few years ago, I might have said something big, like curing a disease or becoming famous for changing the world. But as I’ve grown older, I’ve found that positive impact doesn’t always start with something monumental. It might start with helping one person who is lost, overwhelmed or unsure of themselves. I moved from Vietnam to the United States as a teenager. Everything was different when I first arrived—the language, culture, school system and even how people interact with each other. But I was so sure that I could never fit in, so I always thought I was undeserving. The people who encouraged me were teachers who believed in me, friends who welcomed me, and mentors who also taught me that my background was a strength, not a weakness. I want to help other students who have similar challenges, and I want to make a positive impact from those experiences. I know there are so many young people who feel that they’re behind everyone else just because they’re from a different country, speak a different language or have a different life story. I want to show them that those differences can become their greatest strengths. Mentoring, volunteering or even being a peer leader is something that I really want to work on, and I hope I can help others to be confident in themselves and their abilities. Education has changed my life completely and I truly think it is one of the most powerful tools to create opportunities. I recently graduated as valedictorian with a 4.0 GPA and I have learned that success is not just about intelligence—it is about persistence, discipline and the willingness to keep going when things get difficult. In the future, I want to share those lessons with other students, to help them on their own academic journey. Sometimes all a student needs is someone to say “You can do this,” at the right moment. I believe kindness is a great superpower as well. In an era where people are constantly comparing themselves to others online, many young people do not feel they belong or have confidence. I want to create spaces where people feel supported, valued and encouraged to pursue their goals. Positive impact is not simply about solving global problems; it is also about making people feel seen and heard. My generation is ambitious, creative and connected. We have information and opportunities that our ancestors could only dream of. I am going to use that for my own success in life but also for future generations to benefit from it. If I help a student build self-confidence, motivate someone to continue their education, or help a person in a difficult time, I am already making the world a little better. I might not change the world overnight, but I hope to change the world for the people I meet. And sometimes that’s where the biggest changes start.

# How Higher Education Will Help Me Achieve My Goals and Create a Positive Impact I grew up in Vietnam and heard so much about the American Dream - how anyone can achieve it, if they work hard and learn hard enough. For so long, that dream seemed distant. Now I am an international student in the USA and I can say that I have made the first steps in my path to it. But it was not easy and higher education is still the way to take my dreams to reality. Young Americans who came to the USA at the age of a teenager were thrust into a completely new environment. My parents believed in my dream and paid so much for it. When I was in high school in the United States, my family had over $50,000 in tuition and living expenses; that wasn’t a small amount. I had to borrow money and make big financial sacrifices to continue my education and to go to places that never came to me for education and work. But I did not give up on all of my efforts to make all of it worth doing. I went to study, I worked hard in class and never stopped working. I got a 4.0 GPA and graduated as the valedictorian of the Class of 2026. This accomplishment is my own as well as my family’s sacrifice for me to become that person. I recently joined a community college where I am starting my transition to a nursing degree. Nursing is the field that I am most passionate about because it combines science, compassion, and service. My goal is to become a registered nurse who can provide high-quality care and support to patients during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. But tuition is still a huge problem even after acceptance to that school. With scholarship programs out of reach for international students in high school, I am not even able to get some money for my college education. After so many years, my parents are no longer able to afford college. But the fact is that I am not going to let it deter me if my higher education is still a goal. Higher education will equip me with the knowledge, skills, and experience to achieve my career goals and make a positive impact on others. I am a future nurse and I want to improve patients’ lives by caring for them, offering them a good health education and advocacy. I want to help people in their lowest moments and to make them feel supported, respected, and understood. I have learned from all those experiences that success is not just an individual achievement. It is also about taking advantage of the opportunity to help others. The American Dream is not a dream that everyone has, and I have an opportunity to make the most out of it. I want to continue my education and pursue a career in nursing to acknowledge my parents’ gifts and serve the community and make a difference.

# Olivia Rodrigo’s Lyrics and My Personal Journey Music has always been a great way to connect with my emotions and to reflect on my life. Olivia Rodrigo is one of today's most relatable artists to people who are young, who expresses the same feelings as the average person, and why she is so good at it. And one lyric that speaks to me perfectly is her song “the grudge”: “You built me up to watch me fall.” Olivia wrote this song about her personal relationship but these words come from my own life when things didn’t work out as I hoped, but I did in fact. For years I thought about studying in the USA. It was something that drove me throughout high school. To make that dream come true, I worked hard to get good grades, improve my English pronunciation and get into extracurricular activities so I could be part of that. So late nights I would study and prepare for all the opportunities I could get to get those opportunities as I had put so much effort into it I knew if I did well enough everything was going to fall into place. Life, however, does not always go as we expect it to. I went through setbacks and disappointments that made me question myself. Like the emotions of Olivia Rodrigo’s lyrics, I experienced the frustration of being close to something I wanted only to see it slip away. I was depressed and uncertain about what would happen next. Another Olivia Rodrigo lyric that resonates with me is: “get him back!” She sings, “I am my father’s daughter, so maybe I could fix him.” I think it is a different song about another situation, but I still find this lyric to be indicative of having the desire to solve problems and make difficult situations better. It is my own kind of thing, my desire to keep going when hard work is always my way of doing and it’s something I have always been able to do to overcome the obstacles that have been thrown my way. What I love most about Olivia Rodrigo’s music is that it does not pretend life is perfect. Her songs are about disappointment, heartbreak, self-doubt and frustration, but they’re also about growth and resilience. As a student on a trip to learn far from home, I have had to come to terms with a new world, deal with my responsibilities and get past the obstacles. And all these experiences have taught me that success is not about avoiding problems, but about learning from them. Today, when I listen to Olivia Rodrigo’s music, I know that setbacks are a part of life. I can grow stronger, more independent and determined to accomplish my dreams because of the difficulties I have faced in life. Olivia’s songs have been about growth through hardships and I also have had such trials; my life has been shaped by the struggle but the struggle is so much more than that. It is those experiences that made me the person I am now and still keeps me motivated as I move forward with what I want to do.

A Simple Food Safety Solution Inspired by a Real-Life Problem I recall one day eating fried fish balls from a Vietnamese street food that had an unusually chewy and crunchy texture and I asked the vendor how they arrived at that consistency. To my surprise, the vendor said that some food producers use borax, which is not approved to be used in food safety, to create a tougher and more elastic texture. I was shocked. In Vietnam, borax has been used in some food products (noodles, fish balls, processed meat products) because it improves texture and extends shelf life. But borax is also bad for health. The fact that many people may not know that they have been exposed to this substance was so powerful that I had to come up with a solution. It was to make a product that would allow people to test their food quickly, easily, and affordably. Together with my friends, we sought to develop a cheap way to test it at home without a lot of specialized equipment. After studying the properties of borax, we discovered that curcumin, the natural compound in turmeric, reacts with borax and changes color. This led us to develop a prototype borax detection paper using inexpensive and widely available materials. The process begins by extracting curcumin from fresh turmeric. Fresh turmeric is crushed and mixed with 70% alcohol for a concentrated yellow solution. The mixture is then filtered to remove any solid particles. The absorbent paper is soaked in the turmeric solution for a few minutes and the soaking and drying is repeated several times in order to get as much curcumin in as much paper as possible. The finished strips are stored in sealed containers and then used. To test food, a user places a few drops of lemon juice or vinegar onto the food sample and then applies the turmeric paper. If borax is present, the paper gradually changes from yellow to orange or reddish-orange. This simple color change provides a visual indication that the food may contain borax. If I had the funding and resources, I would further develop this idea into an affordable consumer product. I would collaborate with chemists, food safety experts, and engineers to improve the accuracy and reliability of the testing strips. I would also create easy-to-use packaging with clear instructions and distribute the product to schools, markets, and communities where food safety awareness is especially important. Besides the product itself, I would also run educational campaigns to educate people to understand what food safety is and how to recognize risks. My hope is to assist people in making informed consumer decisions about food and encourage safer food production practices. This experience taught me that great solutions don’t always happen with expensive technology. Sometimes a simple idea based on curiosity and concern for people can solve a real-world problem. I want to do that by combining science with creativity and community awareness so we live in a safer and healthier future.

# Why I Am Passionate About Nursing Nursing career is the best thing a person can do. I am not just a physician (a career) I am a scientist (my passion and my work and my life) in the sciences and I have an interest in how that could be as well as nursing itself— that is what I was doing for a long time. Biology has been my favorite subject since I was a kid. Science was just one of the things that people did in school so many of them thought of as a “below” class, but science is so fascinating to me. I have always been interested in the science of the body and the disease, and I spent a lot of time reading and learning other than what I was required to do in school. I enjoyed biology in my education and I got a lot of awards in biology and other science courses so I have always gotten good grades and many other honors. I liked how I performed in science so much and felt if I wanted to do a career in healthcare it was the right choice. But my research into nursing came from more than being good at it. It was also from getting to see the human side of healthcare. One of the most memorable experiences was when I was ten years old and I was in the restaurant where I went to dinner with my family. A pregnant woman suddenly went into labor when her water broke. The restaurant atmosphere moved quickly. People were shocked, confused and not knowing how to react to it. They froze up, and others anxiously looked at the helpers. At the heart of the chaos, a nurse who happened to be present stepped up right then. I remember how calm she appeared in spite of all that stress. She was there, still focused and confident as everyone else looked stressed, but she worked through it. She approached the woman, offered reassurance, assessed the situation, and helped until emergency medical personnel arrived. I was a ten-year-old boy, and I watched the whole thing with wonder. What I was most impressed with was not only the nurse’s medical knowledge, but her compassion as well. She spoke softly to the woman, eased her fears and provided order to a scenario that could have been much more catastrophic. She made the woman feel safe when at the most vulnerable moment of her life. That experience left a lasting impression on me. For the first time I knew the value of nurses. During emergencies, they are often the first people to offer comfort and care. They are advocates, educators, caregivers and emotional support. The experience with that nurse changed my attitude towards healthcare and planted the seeds for me to become a nurse myself. As I got older, I continued to explore my interest in healthcare. I was always interested in diseases, treatments, patient care and medical technology. Nursing provided me with a unique combination of science and human connection. While all other fields of medicine focus on diagnosis or treatment, nursing gives professionals the opportunity to build lasting relationships with patients and help them get their health better. Another experience that motivated me to become a nurse was to see my fellow human beings in health issues. I’ve seen how illness can affect people not only with their health but also their families. Healthcare professionals can be a source of hope and reassurance in the very moment of need. Their medical understanding and emotional assistance inspired me so much. I came to know that healthcare isn’t just about treating diseases, it is about caring for people. Nursing is the reason why I am passionate about it - giving a direct and positive impact on people’s lives. Nurses are present in some of the most important moments in a person's life. They help babies to wake up and come back from surgery, comfort people with serious illnesses and support families in hard times. Every day nurses have a chance to enhance quality of life and life as individuals with the knowledge, compassion and dedication to do so. Nursing is a profession that encourages me to learn and grow as well. Healthcare is constantly evolving and new technologies, treatments, and research are being developed each year. I enjoy learning and challenging myself academically and I am looking forward to it to continue to learn and grow. Nursing provides me with a dynamic environment where I can develop professionally but make a difference in patient care. My academic journey has prepared me well for this. In high school, I focused on maintaining great academic performance at the same time as pursuing my interest in science. Beyond biology, I got into a lot of hard work and worked my way up in English so I could get into college. I learned discipline, perseverance, and working on time management, which are things that will be necessary for nursing. I have also developed my determination in pursuing the career abroad. Coming to a foreign country and settling into a new educational environment has been challenging and required strength and independence. I have learned from my experiences to communicate with people from a variety of backgrounds, to solve problems and to remain focused on my long-term goals. I will be a better healthcare professional in the future. My goal is to become a registered nurse who provides very good patient care and treats every individual with dignity, respect and compassion. I want to have a positive impact on the lives of my patients and help them navigate difficult moments with confidence and support. Beyond providing patient care myself I hope to inform my community on health and wellness and to make a difference in my society. I want to keep working on my education and my career and I hope to continue to develop in the future. Specialized nursing training, advanced certification and more academic studies, I am going to be the best nurse I can be. I am very much a learner and in healthcare I find there is so much that I can learn more about and it motivates me so much as a nursing professional. I can see when I start to get into nursing how my passion for doing it has evolved and developed from a love of biology and science and grew with my scholarship and more personal experiences that we have in the nursing profession. It’s a picture of that nurse calming down a frightened pregnant woman in a packed restaurant that I will always picture. She was the type of nurse I am aspiring to be: a person with knowledge, compassion and confidence and an interest in helping others. Nursing is a career choice for me but a calling to me that is based on my interests, values and aspirations. It is an intersection of both my passion for science and that of service and the need to help others and make a difference in the world. I am very hopeful on pursuing this path and I am looking forward to the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of patients and families in the future.

# How Substance Abuse Has Influenced My Beliefs, Relationships, and Career Aspirations A close family member is my closest friend of substance abuse and not my own personal experience at the same time but it has had so much of an impact on me this one, my life had a huge impact. As a kid I was raised up with my uncle and I looked up to him. He was successful, financially stable and had a loving family. He worked so hard to provide for his wife and children and was someone many people valued him and admired. He represented in my mind success and responsibility and I know he was the definition of that to me. But everything changed after a business trip a few years ago. According to my family, he was introduced to drugs by people who mistook the substance as something harmless. He became addicted and the addiction gradually took over his life. I saw my once confident and caring uncle start to change. His priorities started to shift, his behaviour changed and he began making decisions that hurt himself and the people around him. The worst thing that happened to him was how he saw his family suffer. And the happy home that I recalled was replaced by arguments, stress, fear and trauma. His wife and children were emotionally affected and family relationships were strained. As a teenager it was hard to see how someone who seemed to have everything could lose so much because of addiction. But seeing these changes in person made me realize substance abuse is a lot more than the person using it. It has lasting consequences for families, relationships and communities. This experience has influenced my belief system throughout my life. It taught me addiction isn’t just a matter of poor choices or lack of willpower. It’s a health issue that affects people from all walks of life— no matter how well educated, successful or educated they are. From this experience, I learned about prevention, education and early intervention. And most importantly, I learned that people who are in addiction are in need of support, treatment and compassion— not judgment alone. My uncle’s experience has really shaped how I think about relationships. I have come to value trust, honesty and communication much more deeply. I know from seeing my family help one another through difficult times that it’s crucial to stay connected and to reach out when someone is in need. It’s also taught me that good relationships require patience, understanding and responsibility. The greatest impact of all this has been on my career aspirations. I want to work in nursing, because I am committed to helping people with serious health problems, including people with addiction and substance abuse. I am passionate about health care, because I have seen how life changing physical and mental health issues can be. I hope to be a nurse who is concerned and patient-centered and help families through difficult times. I want to help others find hope and healing when they are lost. Although my uncle’s addiction was painful for our family, it also taught me resilience, empathy, and the importance of helping others. And those lessons have been what have propelled my personal growth and influenced my desire to work further in healthcare.

I grew up in Vietnam and I learned that dreams are achieved by hard work, determination and perseverance. And that is the core of what I am trying to do today in the United States to become a nurse. My goal at university is to get a Nursing degree and get the knowledge and clinical experience needed to become a compassionate and skilled registered nurse. I love biology and chemistry and that is what attracted me to healthcare. I want to use my education professionally and contribute to patients’ lives, and I hope to bring back my knowledge and experience to my community. I did not get there easily. I tried to improve my grades in high school and I studied advanced English. I did extracurricular activities to prepare for college and visa interviews. My first U.S. visa interview was denied and I was sad that I had so much work and so many years to do so. But rather than give up, I worked hard and never gave up on my dream. When I went to my second interview and received my visa approval, I felt such accomplishment. It’s been shown to me that setbacks don’t define us; how we react to them does. This scholarship would help my family avoid a huge financial burden. I'm an international student and I need tuition, textbooks, housing and living expenses. The scholarship will allow me to spend my time and energy on my studies and my clinical work and future career. Heavy Metal music has been a source of inspiration through some of the most difficult times of my life. While many people tend to focus on its intensity, I appreciate the passion, energy and determination that it represents. Heavy Metal often tells stories about overcoming obstacles, fighting through adversity and refusing to give up; messages that resonate deeply with my own journey. Metallica, Iron Maiden, Avenged Sevenfold: My favorite bands. Their music has been a soundtrack to studying long hours, hard exams and difficult times when I needed encouragement. Songs about resilience and perseverance are so encouraging for me to keep going, no matter how hard the journey is. One song that inspires me is *"Fear of the Dark"* by Iron Maiden. The song reminds me that fear is a natural part of life, but it should never stop us from pursuing our goals. This message was especially meaningful to me when I faced setbacks, including my first unsuccessful visa interview. Instead of giving up, I kept working toward my dream and eventually succeeded. I have not been able to go to many Metal concerts, but I have watched live performances online, seeing thousands of fans dancing together with such a passion for music. Music is the best way for people to be together and can bring people together, no matter what their background is. I am always working towards my goal for good in healthcare now and I’d like to find a scholarship to do so, that I could get closer to that future. I think like Heavy Metal music, hard work and dedication are the keys to achieving the most ambitious dreams of people like me.

What does the American dream mean? For some people, it is financial success. For others, it is freedom and opportunity. For me, the American Dream began as a simple phrase that I heard repeatedly throughout my childhood. Growing up in Vietnam, I often listened to stories about students traveling thousands of miles to study in the United States, people working tirelessly to create better lives, and dreams that once seemed impossible becoming reality. Those stories fascinated me and planted a dream in my heart. Long before I ever boarded a plane or attended an English class, I imagined myself one day walking across an American college campus as an international student. At the time, it felt like a distant dream. Today, after years of hard work, setbacks, and perseverance, I can proudly say that I am living the dream that once existed only in my imagination. As I grew older, I realized that achieving this dream would require much more than simply wanting it. Preparing to study in the United States became one of the most challenging journeys of my life. Throughout high school in Vietnam, I worked hard to maintain strong academic performance while also studying advanced English outside of school. It was not uncommon for me to balance school assignments, English classes, and exam preparation on many days. The workload was demanding, but I knew that every hour of effort brought me one step closer to my goal. In addition to academics, I actively participated in extracurricular activities to build a stronger application profile. These experiences helped me develop leadership, communication, and teamwork skills while allowing me to contribute to my community. I understood that studying abroad required more than good grades; it required demonstrating personal growth, commitment, and the ability to succeed in a new environment. One of the most difficult moments on my journey came during the U.S. visa application process. When I attended my first visa interview, I felt confident and well-prepared. I believed that all my hard work would finally pay off. However, despite my preparation, my visa application was denied. I was disappointed and confused because I did not fully understand the reason for the decision . It felt like a crushing blow, and I questioned whether my dream was truly attainable. Yet, instead of giving up, I took this setback as a learning opportunity. I gathered more information, sought advice, and meticulously prepared for my second interview. Yet that setback did not stop me. Instead of giving up, I chose to move forward. After the interview, I reflected on my experience, prepared myself even more thoroughly, and scheduled a follow-up interview. The second time, I walked into the embassy with determination and hop .When my visa was finally approved, I felt an overwhelming sense of joy, relief, and gratitude. As a result of this moment, my life has been transformed, as it signifies not only the approval of my visa, but also the satisfaction of years of dedication and perseverance. Today, as an international student in the United States, I understand that the American Dream is about much more than studying abroad or achieving financial success. I get to learn, grow, and challenge myself in ways I never imagined. It is about overcoming obstacles, embracing new experiences, and turning aspirations into reality through hard work and determination. My journey has taught me that success is not defined by never experiencing failure. Instead, success comes from having the courage to continue moving forward after setbacks. The American Dream is not a destination; it is a journey of perseverance, growth, and opportunity.

Close reading requires slowing down and resisting the urge to rush toward surface meaning. At first glance, Marcus Aurelius's words appear pessimistic, even cynical. He opens the day by expecting the worst in people. However, a closer reading reveals that this passage is not about bitterness or avoidance. Instead, it presents a disciplined way of thinking that prepares the individual to engage with the world responsibly. Marcus Aurelius suggests that understanding human flaws begins with self-control, not jjudgmentm and that recognizing imperfection is essential for meaningful action rather than disengagement. Marcus Aurelius begins the passage by instructing the reader to prepare mentally for negative encounters, emphasizing discipline over emotional reaction. He writes, "Began the morning by saying to thyself, I shall meet with busybody, the ungrateful, arrogantm deceirful, envious, unsocial." The phrase "begin the morning" is critical. Marcus Aurelius does not suggest reacting after encountering difficulty, but preparing before it happens. This framing places responsibility on the individual, not on others. By listing human flaws without emotion or elaboration, he removes surprise from the experience of conflict. The absence of dramatic language shows that these traits are expected parts of human interaction, not personal attacks. This approach reflects a mindset where self-control precedes judgment. Rather than allowing frustration to dictate behavior, the reader is trained to remain steady. Close reading of this sentence reveals that the goal is not avoidance of people but emotional readiness. Marcus Aurelius teaches that discipline is an internal process that must occur before engaging with the external world. This idea aligns with the purpose of close reading itself. Just as readers must approach texts without assumptions, individuals must approach people without emotional impulse. Both require patience, restraint, and intentional thought. The second sentence shifts responsibility away from others' behavior and toward understanding the cause behind it. Marcus Aurelius states that "All these things happen to them by reason of their ignorance of what is good and evil." The word "ignorance" is central to the passage's underlying meaning. He does not describe these individuals as evil or malicious, but uninformed. This distinction removes moral outrage from the response. Ignorance suggests limitation rather than intent, shifting the focus from blame to comprehension. By framing harmful behavior as ignorance, Marcus Aurelius challenges the reader to respond with clarity rather than anger. This does not excuse wrongdoing, but it prevents emotional escalation. The phrase "good and evil" also suggests a philosophical rather than personal judgment. He encourages the reader to see behavior as part of a broader human condition, not a direct offense. This interpretation reinforces the importance of close reading. A surface reading might view the passage as dismissive of others, but deeper analysis shows that it promotes responsibility. Understanding the cause behind actions allows the individual to act thoughtfully rather than react impulsively. Together, the two sentences construct a philosophy centered on endurance, accountability, and deliberate engagement with the world. The passage combines the expectation of difficulty with an explanation rooted in human limitation. Marcus Aurelius does not advise withdrawal from society, nor does he encourage confrontation. Instead, he prepares the reader to remain composed in the presence of imperfection. The calm tone and structured reasoning suggest that strength lies in steadiness, not dominance. This philosophy mirrors the practice of close reading. Just as readers must resist reacting to unfamiliar or uncomfortable texts, individuals must resist reacting emotionally to others' flaws. Both require slowing down, examining the underlying meaning, and choosing a thoughtful response. By applying this mindset, the reader becomes capable of sustained effort and long-term growth. This is especially relevant in higher education, where challenge and disagreement are unavoidable. The passage teaches that resilience is built through preparation, not avoidance. Through close reading, Marcus Aurelius's passage reveals a disciplined philosophy that values preparation over reaction and understanding over judgment. Rather than promoting cynicism, the text encourages responsibility and emotional control as foundations for meaningful action. This approach reflects the core purpose of close reading: to move beyond surface impressions and uncover deeper structure and intent. By learning to read texts and people with patience and discipline, individuals position themselves to engage more thoughtfully with the world and make a lasting impact.

I want to make a change in my life because I understand that progress does not happen automatically. At one point, I realized that if I continued moving without intention, nothing around me would improve. That realization forced me to take responsibility for my choices and decide what kind of future I wanted to build. For me, a second chance is not about erasing the past. It is about choosing to move forward with purpose and discipline. The steps I have taken so far reflect that mindset. I committed myself to education as the foundation for change. Studying biology and preparing for a career in nursing gave my efforts direction. Instead of reacting to circumstances, I began planning ahead, setting goals, and holding myself accountable. I learned that improvement comes from showing up every day, not from waiting for motivation. Another important step was learning how to support others while continuing to work on myself. Over time, people around me began trusting me as someone who listens without judgment. Sometimes support meant offering advice, and other times it meant staying present and allowing someone to express their thoughts fully. Those moments reinforced my belief that change is not only personal. It is something that spreads when people feel understood and respected. This scholarship would help me continue that progress by giving me the stability to focus on my goals. Education requires time, attention, and consistency, and support like this allows me to invest more fully in my studies. With fewer distractions, I can continue building the knowledge and skills necessary to move closer to my long-term goal in healthcare. This opportunity represents a second chance, not because I failed before, but because it strengthens my ability to move forward with intention. Paying it forward is an essential part of how I define growth. I plan to continue supporting others through presence, guidance, and example. In the future, as a nurse, I want to create environments where people feel safe asking questions and admitting uncertainty. Many individuals hesitate to seek help because they fear judgment. I want to be someone who changes that experience by offering patience and respect. Even small moments of understanding can give someone the confidence to keep going. A second chance only matters when it leads to responsibility. The support I receive today will shape how I support others tomorrow. By committing to education, self-discipline, and service, I hope to continue the cycle of opportunity that this scholarship represents. Change begins with one decision, but its impact grows when it is shared. That is the kind of future I am working toward.

Supporting others with their mental health has been a steady part of my life. Among my friends, family and people around me, I am often the person they turn to when they feel overwhelmed or unsure how to express what they are going through. I do not try to fix their problems or give perfect answers. Instead, I listen carefully, offer encouragement, and sometimes choose to stay silent beside them so they feel comfortable speaking honestly. These moments showed me that emotional support does not always come from words. Many people simply need space to be heard without being judged or rushed. Being present and patient can help others feel less alone during stressful or uncertain times. Through listening, I learned that trust and consistency matter more than advice, especially when someone is struggling emotionally. This understanding is closely connected to my plan to pursue nursing. Nursing involves more than physical care and requires attention to a patient's emotional state. Fear, stress, and anxiety often affect how patients respond to treatment and recovery. As a future nurse, I want to recognize these emotional challenges and respond with empathy, clear communication, and respect. Even small moments of reassurance can help patients feel more secure and supported. Through my studies, I will continue learning how mental health influences overall well-being and how healthcare professionals can better support both patients and colleagues. I hope to create an environment where people feel comfortable speaking openly and know their emotions are taken seriously. Through education and honest communication, I plan to continue supporting others in direct and practical ways throughout my career.

1. When I first stepped into the U.S., everything around me felt unfamiliar. The language, the social, and the way people interacted were all new to me. At the same time, I was carrying my queer identity quietly, I'm not sure how it would be received in a place I was still trying to understand. I remember being more observant than expressive, paying close attention to tone, body language, and small reactions before deciding how much of myself I could show. I felt curious, but also careful at the same time. Being queer in a new country made me more aware of my surroundings and more thoughtful about how I moved through different spaces. I learned to notice details others might overlook, not because I was afraid, but because I wanted to understand where I was and how I fit into it. Sometimes that meant choosing to listen instead of speaking or waiting before opening up. Over time, this experience changed the way I see people and community. I became more aware of how much people carry without showing it. Not everyone feels safe being fully visible, and not everyone has the same freedom to express who they are right away. My queer identity taught me that identity is not always loud or obvious. Often, it exists in small choices, in restraint, and in patience. This perspective shaped my sense of empathy. I approach others with more care now, knowing that I may not see their full story at first. I learned that belonging does not always happen instantly. Sometimes it is built slowly, through observation, trust, and shared understanding. Crossing into the United States as a queer person did not give me clear answers, but it changed how I listen, how I notice people, and how I move through unfamiliar spaces. That awareness still shapes how I see the people around me today. 2. Through school, I want to build the knowledge and stability I need to care for others in a consistent and meaningful way. After graduating from high school, I plan to pursue nursing because it allows me to combine practical skills with human connection. Nursing appeals to me not only as a career but as a way to be present for people during moments when they need support and understanding. Education gives me independence and confidence. By studying nursing, I want to learn how to make informed decisions, communicate clearly, and provide care that is both knowledgeable and compassionate. I also hope that my experiences as a queer individual will help me approach patients with openness and respect, especially those who may feel unseen or unsure in medical spaces. I do not have everything figured out yet, but I know I want my education to prepare me to show up for others and contributed positiviely to the communities I am part of.

I began to understand the definition of success when I realized that nothing in my life would change unless I changed what I was doing. That moment pushed me to take my future more seriously and take responsibility for the direction I wanted to go. For me, success means using my education to take care of people and support the community I am part of. This scholarship would help me stay focused on that goal and continue moving forward without being held back by financial pressure. Success, to me, means being able to keep moving forward even when things become difficult. I see it this way because, since moving to the United States at seventeen, I have been responsible for my schoolwork, rent, food, and other daily needs on my own. Handling everything myself taught me how to plan better and adjust whenever things do not go as expected. Before coming here, I volunteered at a hospital for elderly patients in Vietnam. Helping them with simple tasks and seeing how much they depended on basic support made me certain that nursing fits who I am. It also showed me that success does not need to be something big. For me, it is about being dependable and doing the steady work that brings me closer to the life I want to build each day. This scholarship would make a practical difference in how I study nursing. I currently cover all of my living expenses, including rent, food, textbooks, and transportation, while keeping up with my classes. Balancing these responsibilities takes a lot of time and focus. With this support, I would be able to work fewer hours and spend more time learning, preparing for my nursing courses, and gaining hands-on experience in healthcare settings. It would make it easier for me to stay on track and do well in the program. Success, for me, is earning the education that will allow me to serve my community as a nurse, and this scholarship plays an important part in that plan. Living independently and volunteering in healthcare have shaped how I approach my goals and the effort I put into them. With this support, I can continue building my skills and stay focused on the future I want. Just as I realized that change only happens when I take action, I am ready to keep doing the work that moves my future forward.

What I love most about writing is how it helps me understand myself and the world around me. Writing has been my quiet companion through some of the hardest and most transformative moments of my life. When I moved from Vietnam to the United States after 11th grade, everything changed. I had to adjust to a new language, a new culture, and a new way of learning. I felt overwhelmed and alone at times, but writing gave me a space to reflect, to breathe, and to find strength in my story. Writing became a way for me to process the sacrifices my parents made. They worked overnight shifts, sometimes more than twelve hours a day, just to afford my Junior year in the U.S. When their business struggled and they could no longer support my Senior year, I had to find a way to pay for school and living expenses on my own. It was a difficult time, but writing helped me stay grounded. I wrote about my fears, my hopes, and the quiet determination that kept me going. Through writing, I learned how to turn hardship into resilience. I also love how writing connects people. When I share my story, I often hear from others who say they’ve felt the same way or faced similar challenges. That connection reminds me that even though our paths may be different, our emotions are shared. Writing builds bridges between people. It creates understanding and empathy. It helps us feel less alone. In college, I plan to continue writing in every way I can. I want to take courses that challenge me to think deeply and express myself clearly. I hope to join writing workshops and student publications where I can share my voice and learn from others. I also want to use writing to advocate for students like me—immigrants, first-generation learners, and those facing financial hardship. I believe our stories matter, and I want to help others find the courage to tell theirs. Even though I am pursuing nursing, writing will always be part of my journey. Nurses do more than care for physical health. They listen, they comfort, and they support people during their most vulnerable moments. Writing has taught me how to listen with empathy and reflect with honesty. These are qualities I will carry into my future career. I want to be a nurse who not only heals but uplifts. One day, I hope to mentor other students who are navigating the same challenges I faced. I want to help them believe in their potential and remind them that their voices are powerful. Whether through essays, letters, or journal entries, I will keep writing. Because for me, writing is not just a passion. It is a way to honor my past, to grow in the present, and to build a future filled with purpose and compassion. This scholarship would not only support my education. It would support a storyteller, a future nurse, and a young woman determined to turn her journey into something that helps others heal.

My journey toward higher education began long before I ever stepped into a classroom in the United States. Unlike many of my peers, I grew up in a family that faced difficult circumstances, but I never saw that as a reason to give up. My parents taught me that education is not just a path to success, but a way to honor the sacrifices of those who believe in you. Every step I take today is built on the love, hard work, and faith that my parents showed me. I was born and raised in Vietnam, where my parents worked long hours to provide me with a good education. I was always fascinated by how the world works, especially the mysteries of the human body. I loved studying biology and was proud to receive multiple awards for my achievements in science during middle and high school. For me, biology was not just a subject — it was a window into understanding life itself. I was amazed by how every tiny system in our bodies connects to keep us alive and how much can be learned through observing nature. After I finished 11th grade, my parents made the brave decision to send me to the United States so I could have a better education and more opportunities for my future. They wanted me to experience a new world, grow stronger, and chase the dreams they never had the chance to pursue. I thought moving here would make life easier, but the truth was far more challenging. My parents could only afford to support my first year. They worked overnight shifts, sometimes more than twelve hours a day, just to cover my junior year in high school. When their business began to struggle, they could no longer afford my tuition or living costs. Suddenly, I had to take responsibility for everything on my own — rent, food, and school expenses. I felt scared and overwhelmed, but I refused to let their sacrifices be in vain. I found part-time work, learned to budget carefully, and kept my grades up despite exhaustion. Those experiences taught me resilience, independence, and strength. They also deepened my faith in myself and in the kindness of others. Through it all, my dream of becoming a nurse never faded. I chose nursing because it combines everything I value most compassion, science, and service. One of my teachers once told me that I had a calm and caring nature, qualities that make a good nurse. That encouragement stayed with me. I am dedicated to helping people heal, both physically and emotionally. To me, nursing is more than a profession. It is a way to bring comfort and hope to others, especially those who feel unseen or alone. In the future, I hope to use my education not only to care for patients but also to give back to my community. I want to support other students who face the same challenges I did, young people far from home, struggling financially, but holding on to their dreams. I want them to know that no matter how hard life becomes, they are capable of more than they think. Every challenge I have faced has shaped me into a stronger, more determined person. I have learned that success is not about having the easiest path, but about having the courage to persevere when the road is difficult. Higher education is not just my goal; it is the next step in a journey built on faith, love, and the desire to make a difference in the lives of others.

Faith has always been the quiet light guiding me through darkness. It is not only about religion but also about believing that even in my hardest moments, there is a reason to keep going, a purpose waiting on the other side of struggle. My journey has been shaped by that kind of faith, in my parents’ sacrifices, in my own strength, and in the goodness of people who have helped me along the way. I grew up in Vietnam in a humble family that never had much, but we always had love. My parents worked tirelessly to provide for me, often taking overnight shifts that lasted more than twelve hours. I used to stay up late waiting for them, listening for the sound of the gate opening and feeling peace when I knew they were home safely. Their tired smiles taught me what love truly means, the kind of love that gives everything it has for someone else’s future. After I finished 11th grade, my parents made the brave decision to send me to the United States so I could have a better education. They wanted me to see a world bigger than ours, to grow through new experiences, and to have opportunities they never had. I promised myself that I would not let them down. I studied hard, earned high grades, and stayed focused, even when everything around me felt unfamiliar and challenging. But at the end of my junior year, my life changed in a way I never expected. My parents’ small business began to struggle, and one night they called to tell me that they could no longer afford my tuition or living expenses. I remember holding the phone, unable to speak, as tears rolled down my face. The people who had always given everything for me were now the ones in pain, and I was too far away to help them. That night, I prayed. I did not pray for things to be easier but for the strength to stand on my own. My mother once told me, “Faith is not about waiting for miracles. It is about being strong enough to create them.” Her words stayed in my heart. I decided that no matter what happened, I would not give up. I started looking for part-time jobs while balancing my school schedule. I learned to budget carefully, live simply, and make every dollar count. There were days when I went to class tired, but I never stopped pushing forward. I relied on faith when everything else felt uncertain. I believed that my parents’ sacrifices would not be in vain, that my hard work would open doors, and that somehow, this struggle would lead to something meaningful. Through it all, my dream of becoming a nurse never faded. Nursing represents compassion, strength, and healing, values that reflect everything I have learned through my journey. I want to care for people in their most vulnerable moments, just as faith and love have cared for me. One day, I hope to give back by supporting students who come from different backgrounds and face hardship but still carry hope in their hearts. Faith did not take away my challenges, but it gave me the courage to face them. It taught me that strength is built through struggle and that hope can grow even in the hardest soil. Today, I stand as a young woman shaped by resilience, love, and unshakable belief. With the help of this scholarship, I can continue turning faith into action and make my parents’ sacrifices worth every sleepless night.

Family has always been the foundation of who I am and the reason I keep pushing forward. I was raised in a loving home with both of my parents, who have always worked tirelessly to give me a better future. Growing up in Vietnam, I saw firsthand the sacrifices they made every single day. Even when times were tough and money was tight, my parents never gave up. They carried the weight of our family with quiet strength, determination, and endless love. Their hard work and faith in me became my greatest motivation. From a young age, I understood that success is not about luck or privilege, but about effort, dedication, and heart. My parents taught me that even if life isn’t easy, we can always choose how we respond to challenges. They worked long hours, sometimes overnight, to make sure I could go to school and chase opportunities they never had. Watching them struggle yet smile taught me that love is powerful—it gives us courage when life feels overwhelming. When my parents decided to send me to the United States for a better education, it was one of the hardest but bravest decisions they ever made. Leaving my home, my language, and everything familiar was a huge change for me. I thought things would become easier, but the truth was, starting over in a new country was far more difficult than I expected. I had to adjust to new customs, communicate in a different language, and find my place in an unfamiliar environment. There were days I felt completely alone and wanted to give up. But every time I thought about quitting, I reminded myself of my parents—still back home, working long, exhausting hours to support my dream. They believed in me when I struggled to believe in myself. Remembering their sacrifices gave me the strength to keep going. I studied harder, learned to manage on my own, and began to see challenges as opportunities to grow. Being away from my family taught me independence, but it also deepened my sense of gratitude. I realized that my parents’ love and lessons are always with me, no matter the distance. Their resilience shaped me into someone who values empathy, discipline, and kindness. It’s because of them that I want to use my education and experiences to make a difference for others. Even though I am still discovering the exact path I’ll take, I know I want a future where I can help people—whether through healthcare, education, or community work. I want to bring comfort to others who are struggling, to be the kind of person who listens, supports, and encourages. Helping others has always been my way of giving back the love and guidance my parents have shown me. My dream is to make them proud by turning their sacrifices into something meaningful—not just for me, but for the community I’m part of. I hope to inspire other young people, especially those who come from humble beginnings, to keep believing in themselves even when life feels difficult. Being raised by two hardworking, loving parents has shaped every part of who I am. Their sacrifices have taught me that kindness is strength, hard work builds opportunity, and gratitude gives life purpose. Because of them, I am determined to use my education to make the world a better and more compassionate place for everyone.

My name is Thao Vy, and my journey has been one of resilience, faith, and gratitude. I grew up in Vietnam in a loving but hardworking family that always believed education could change a person’s life. My parents have always been my greatest inspiration. They worked day and night to make sure I had the chance to chase my dreams, even when life was hard. Because of their sacrifices, I promised myself that I would never give up, no matter what challenges came my way. After finishing 11th grade, my parents made a brave and difficult decision — to send me to the United States for a better education and future. It was a huge sacrifice. They worked long overnight shifts, sometimes more than twelve hours, just to afford my tuition and living expenses. I thought moving to America would make life easier, but it turned out to be one of the hardest things I had ever done. I had to adjust to a new culture, improve my English, and find my place in a completely different world. Just as I started to settle into this new chapter, I faced something I never expected — a life-threatening battle with sepsis. What began as a small infection quickly became something far more serious. My body started to shut down, and I was rushed to the hospital. I was scared, weak, and far away from my family. The doctors told me that sepsis could take my life if not treated immediately. Lying in that hospital bed, I felt helpless and afraid. I kept thinking about my parents in Vietnam — still working long hours for me — and I prayed that I would have the strength to recover for them. During that time, I met some of the kindest nurses and doctors I have ever known. They didn’t just treat my illness; they treated me like a person who mattered. They spoke gently, held my hand when I cried, and made sure I never felt alone. Their compassion gave me strength when I had none left. That experience changed my entire outlook on life. I realized how fragile life can be and how one moment can completely turn everything upside down. When I finally recovered, I promised myself that I would live with gratitude and kindness every day. Surviving sepsis made me stronger, more empathetic, and more determined to give back. I began to appreciate every breath, every sunrise, and every opportunity that came my way. Most importantly, I learned that even the smallest act of compassion can change someone’s life — just like it did for me. Now, as I continue my education, I want to use my experiences to help others who are struggling. I plan to raise awareness about sepsis and support people who face health or financial hardships. I also hope to inspire students who, like me, come from different backgrounds and are trying to build a better life through education. Sepsis was one of the hardest challenges I’ve ever faced, but it also became one of the greatest teachers in my life. It taught me strength, patience, and the true meaning of hope. I’m proud of how far I’ve come, and I know my journey doesn’t end here. I want to keep growing, learning, and using my second chance at life to bring hope, comfort, and encouragement to others — just as others once did for me.

1. Personal inspiration for pursuing a career in nursing My inspiration for pursuing a career in nursing comes from both my family and my own life experiences. Growing up in Vietnam, I saw firsthand the sacrifices my parents made to give me opportunities they never had. They worked long hours—sometimes overnight shifts lasting more than twelve hours—to support my education. Their resilience taught me that caring for others is not just about providing for their needs but also about giving them hope and strength. When I moved to the United States after finishing 11th grade, I thought my path would become easier. Instead, I faced new challenges. My parents were only able to afford one year of my studies, and when their business struggled, I suddenly had to find a way to cover my senior year on my own. It was overwhelming, but it also shaped my determination to keep moving forward despite obstacles. Through those experiences, I discovered my dream of becoming a nurse. One of my teachers once told me I had a calm, responsible nature and strong learning ability—qualities that would make me a good nurse. Her encouragement stuck with me, and over time, I realized that nursing was the perfect way to channel my empathy, patience, and love for science into a career where I could truly make a difference. Nursing is not just a profession to me—it is a calling. It is about being there for people when they are at their most vulnerable, listening to their fears, and offering not only medical care but also comfort. That mission is what continues to inspire me every day. 2. What “human touch” means to me To me, the phrase “human touch” means more than just physical contact—it represents compassion, empathy, and connection. It is the ability to see a person not only as a patient but as a human being with fears, hopes, and emotions. In nursing, human touch goes beyond clinical skills; it is the way we communicate understanding, kindness, and reassurance to someone who may be experiencing pain or uncertainty. I believe the “human touch” has the power to transform patient care. Medicine can treat the body, but compassion heals the spirit. A patient may not remember every detail of the treatment they received, but they will always remember how a nurse made them feel. A gentle word, a smile, or simply taking the time to listen can make a patient feel valued and less alone. In moments of vulnerability—such as waiting for test results, facing surgery, or coping with illness—the human touch can be the comfort that gives patients the strength to keep fighting. In my own life, I’ve seen how kindness can change a difficult situation. Moving to the U.S. as a teenager, I often felt isolated because of language barriers and cultural differences. Yet the times when someone showed me patience, encouragement, or empathy gave me the courage to keep going. Those experiences remind me that even small gestures can leave a lasting impact. As a future nurse, I plan to carry this lesson into every interaction with patients. Human touch, to me, means slowing down, paying attention, and being present in the moment. It means letting patients know that they are more than their illness, and that someone genuinely cares about their well-being. By practicing nursing with both skill and compassion, I hope to not only help heal bodies but also bring comfort, dignity, and hope to the people I serve.

From a young age, I have been fascinated by how the smallest systems in our bodies work together to sustain life. In school, biology was always the subject that captured my full attention because it helped me understand the science of health and the delicate balance that keeps us alive. But my inspiration to pursue a career in the medical field goes beyond academics—it is deeply personal. Growing up, I witnessed the sacrifices my parents made for my future. Their long hours of work, often overnight shifts that left them exhausted, taught me the meaning of perseverance and selflessness. They reminded me that caring for others is not only an act of love but also a responsibility. That same spirit of care is what drives me toward nursing. When I moved from Vietnam to the United States after finishing 11th grade, I thought life would become easier. Instead, I was met with new challenges. My parents could afford only one year of my studies, and the following year, their business began to struggle. Suddenly, I had to find ways to cover my school and living costs on my own. It was not the typical high school experience many of my peers had, but it strengthened my determination. Through those difficult moments, I realized that I wanted a career where I could channel my resilience and empathy into helping others who face challenges of their own. Nursing became not just a dream but a mission. What inspires me most about nursing is the chance to make a tangible difference in people’s lives every single day. A nurse is often the person patients see the most, the one who listens to their fears, comforts their families, and provides care when they are most vulnerable. I want to be that steady presence—someone who combines knowledge with compassion to help patients feel not only treated but truly cared for. One of my teachers once told me that I had a calm, responsible nature and a strong learning ability—qualities that would make me a good nurse. I hold on to that encouragement because it reminds me that even in moments of self-doubt, I have what it takes to succeed in this field. My bilingual background is also something I want to use to make a difference. As a Vietnamese and English speaker, I can bridge cultural and language barriers, ensuring that patients and families who may feel unheard or misunderstood have someone who truly listens and advocates for them. Looking ahead, I plan to specialize in [pediatrics, emergency care, or community health—you can choose your focus], where I can not only provide medical treatment but also serve as a source of hope. Beyond the hospital, I hope to mentor and support students who, like me, come from different backgrounds and face financial or language challenges. By sharing my journey, I want to show them that it is possible to turn hardship into strength. Pursuing nursing is more than a career choice for me—it is a way to honor my parents’ sacrifices, to serve others with kindness, and to build a life rooted in purpose. Through my career, I want to make a difference not only in healing bodies but also in uplifting spirits, one patient at a time.

Many students face challenges that make education feel out of reach, but with the right support, motivated students can turn hardships into strength. Scholarships and grants are not only financial help—they are lifelines that give students like me the chance to keep moving forward when life feels impossible. I grew up in Vietnam, where I worked hard in school and discovered my love for biology. After 11th grade, I came to the U.S. filled with hope for new opportunities. At first, I thought life would get easier, but instead it became harder than I ever imagined. During my junior year, my parents overworked themselves, often more than 12 hours a day, just so I could afford to attend school. I carried that weight with me every day, knowing how much they were sacrificing for me. But when their business began to struggle, everything changed. By senior year, I was on my own. My tuition was $23,000 for this year, 2025-2026, not including living expenses. I remember lying awake at night, overwhelmed, wondering how I could afford it while still keeping up with my studies. At times, it felt like the dream I had worked so hard for was slipping away. Still, I refused to give up. I pushed myself to keep studying, to maintain my grades, even when exhaustion made it hard to focus. I worked more hours than I thought I could handle, often feeling torn between survival and school. Some days, the stress was unbearable, but I reminded myself why I came here—to build a better future and to pursue my passion for health and science. These experiences shaped me in ways I never expected. They taught me resilience and independence, but they also gave me empathy. I know what it feels like to be overwhelmed, scared, and uncertain about the future. And I know how powerful it is when someone shows care and understanding during those moments. That is why I want to become a nurse: to be there for others the way I once needed someone to be there for me. Support through this grant would mean far more than easing the heavy financial pressure I face. It would give me the stability to focus on my education and the encouragement to keep striving toward my dream. It would remind me that my hard work and sacrifices have meaning, and that others believe in my potential. I believe students from disadvantaged backgrounds deserve opportunities like this because we know the true value of education. We fight for it, we sacrifice for it, and we never take it for granted. With support, I am determined to turn my struggles into strength and give back to others through a career in nursing.

Hi, my name is Vy, and my life hasn’t been easy, but the experiences I’ve gone through have helped me grow and find my passion. They have shaped the way I think, feel, and dream. I’ve faced many challenges, but I’ve also learned the value of strength, love, and never giving up. These lessons are the reason I want to become a nurse. I was born and raised in Vietnam. From a young age, I saw how hard my parents worked just to give me the basics. We didn’t have much money, but we had love. My parents always believed in education and told me it would be the key to a better future. That’s why I’ve always taken school seriously. I studied hard, earned high grades, and received multiple Biology awards throughout middle and high school. Biology became my favorite subject because it helped me understand the human body, how each small system keeps us alive and working. That knowledge made me appreciate life more deeply and inspired my dream to help others. After I finished 11th grade in Vietnam, my parents made a huge and brave decision. They sent me to the United States so I could get a better education and more opportunities. I was excited and thought things would get easier. But it didn’t take long for me to realize that life here would be even harder. My parents worked long, overnight shifts, sometimes more than 12 hours a day, just to pay for my junior year of high school. I missed them terribly, and I could feel the pressure they were under. Then things got even worse. Their small business in Vietnam started to struggle, and they could no longer afford to pay for my senior year. I suddenly had to find a way to survive, paying for school, rent, and all my basic needs on my own. It was one of the most difficult moments in my life. There were times I felt scared and completely alone, but I reminded myself that my parents made sacrifices for me to be here. I couldn’t give up not on them, not on myself, and not on my dream. Through it all, I held on to my goal of becoming a nurse. One of my teachers once told me that I have a calm, focused, and caring personality, traits that are perfect for nursing. That meant so much to me. I want to care for people when they are at their weakest, to be a calm presence when they are scared or sick. I want to bring hope and healing, because I know what it feels like to struggle and still move forward. One day, I also hope to give back to students like me, those who come from other countries, who face money problems, but who still chase their dreams. I want to help them believe that even when life is hard, it’s possible to keep going. My life has taught me strength, compassion, and purpose. Those lessons are leading me to nursing, and I know I’m on the right path.