Balancing full-time work, part-time schooling, and childcare has presented significant challenges, shaping my career goals in profound ways. I pursued a job I didn't know I would want to have a more consistent schedule. Juggling these responsibilities requires resilience and careful planning. Working full-time, especially on a night shift schedule, introduces a set of challenges to mental and physical exhaustion, but allow for more time spent at home with the kids and managing childcare. Night shifts disrupt natural sleep cycles, and while this is currently a necessary sacrifice, the ultimate goal is to balance everything while working during daylight hours. Coupled with part-time studies, the demand for constant focus has been challenging and this scholarship will help to alleviate some of the work stress for the next year. The responsibility of caring for a 1-year-old and a 3-year-old cannot be understated as they are a full-time job in themselves. Young children need constant attention, emotional support, and engagement, which can make it difficult to find time for work and study, but with the support of an amazing husband I've been able to put in the work to complete over half of my Doctor of Nursing Practice program. However, the unpredictability of their needs often means adapting plans on the fly, sometimes leading to late-night study sessions or staying over at work to get needed task done. Despite these difficulties, the experience of being a mother has deeply influenced my career goals. The joy I get from raising my children have made me aware of the importance of spending quality time with them. The career path that I have chosen has given me a path that provides for a lot of flexibility and financial stability for the future. My ultimate goal is to complete my doctorate degree and transition into a role that allows me to work less while earning more. This change would enable me to be more present in my children’s lives while doing what I love in helping others. The pursuit of a doctoral degree has been an ultimate goal of mine, and I aim to compete it while also setting my children up for their future as well. The challenges of balancing work, school, and caregiving has challenged my time management, perseverance, and adaptability. These experiences have clarified my professional aspirations, emphasizing the need for a role that supports work-life balance. As I work towards completing my degree I am driven by the vision of a future where my professional and personal lives are well-integrated, allowing me to be both a dedicated professional and an attentive parent.

Growing up, I was always fascinated by medicine and longed to pursue a medical degree. With my first undergraduate degree I learned how to be a college student, but I also met the love of my life. Financial means and family needs made me realize that medical school was not the right path forward and that I could do everything I wanted with a nursing degree. After completing my practical nursing program, I was cemented in my track to pursue medicine through a nursing lens. After completing my practical nursing program, I continued my education, earning my Associate of Science in Nursing, followed by my Bachelor of Science in Nursing. As a registered nurse, I have worked primarily with cardiac patients, but currently I provide educational support for night shift ICU nurses. Now, I have taken the next step in my career by pursuing my Doctorate of Nursing Practice. I want to expand my knowledge and skills to better serve my patients and community. This decision stems from my belief in the importance of ongoing learning and my commitment to providing excellent care. My focus is on adult-gerontology acute care, and I have a passion for helping through palliative and end of life care needs. Beyond clinical practice, I'm also drawn to opportunities in nursing leadership and education. I aspire to be a mentor and role model for aspiring nurses, fostering a culture of compassion, competence, and continuous learning. My decision to pursue an advanced degree in nursing is also influenced by my personal values and experiences. I've always felt a calling to make a positive impact in the lives of others. Nursing and pursuing becoming a nurse practitioner provides me with a means of growth and service. Furthermore, as someone who has experienced firsthand the challenges and rewards of balancing personal and professional responsibilities, I'm inspired to advocate for policies and practices that support the well-being of healthcare professionals. I believe that investing in the education and professional development of nurses is essential for building a resilient and compassionate healthcare workforce. Pursuing an advanced degree in nursing is not only a professional aspiration but also a personal commitment to lifelong learning. I'm excited about the opportunities that lie ahead and eager to continue making a meaningful difference in the field of healthcare. With dedication, compassion, and a spirit of inquiry, I'm confident that I can contribute to shaping the future of nursing and improve health outcomes. I'm excited to continue growing and making a positive impact in healthcare as an advanced practice nurse.

My journey into nursing as a second degree was what shaped who I am today. It began with a series of decisions and experiences that have led me to where I am today. After completing my first bachelor's degree in Brain Behavior and Cognitive Sciences, my initial plan was to pursue either research or medical school. However, life took an unexpected turn when I moved to Florida for my fiancé's job after a year of a long-distance relationship. In order to stay close to home, I made the decision to switch tracks and enrolled in a practical nursing program. Choosing the practical nursing path allowed me to pursue my passion while avoiding the challenges of moving away and the financial burden associated with graduate school. The pivotal moment that solidified my desire to become a nurse occurred during my first clinicals in a nursing home within the practical nurse program. Witnessing the impact and importance of compassionate care during people's most vulnerable moments made me realize I wanted to be the person at the bedside with the patients. My journey continued as I successfully bridged to obtain my Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN), followed by the pursuit of my Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). As a registered nurse, I have gained valuable experience and insights into patient care in the Cardiac ICU. Currently, I am actively engaged in nursing education and work with ICU new graduate nurses to help them with professional development in their first 8 months. Despite the detours and challenges, I believe that every twist and turn in my path has provided me with a wealth of experiences and life lessons that have deepened my understanding of the human condition. Now, after twelve years of learning, I am hoping to obtain my doctorate, and become a nurse practitioner. While I want to work as a nurse Practioner my other passion is in teaching and education. I hope to further develop my ability to teach others and learn enough to be able to further other's educations as well. Today I am very glad I chose to stay close to home as we have been happily married for 11 years with two beautiful children. I now continue my education and my growth to give them the best future possible. I am hoping for a scholarship to help ease the cost of school and be able to continue to fund my children's future as well. While the road may have been longer than initially anticipated, I am grateful for the diverse experiences that have shaped me into the compassionate and dedicated individual I am today. These experiences have given me profound insights into the lives of those I aim to serve, reinforcing my commitment to making a meaningful impact in the field of healthcare as I work towards my terminal degree.