My decision to major in nursing was motivated by my desire to have a real impact on people's lives as well as my own personal experiences. As a child, I experienced firsthand the essential part that that medical professionals play in giving those in need comfort and care. My decision to become a nurse was reinforced by my personal experiences in the medical field as well as my natural drive to assist people. This career choice offers a meaningful career by allowing me to blend my interest in medical science with my compassion. Being a young Black woman from an underrepresented minority, I have had certain difficulties that have influenced my career and academic objectives. It is important to have representation, and I am well aware of the prejudices and inequalities prevalent in the healthcare system. My objective is to be the best in my area, but I also want to be an advocate and role model for those from similar backgrounds. In order to ensure that everyone receives fair and compassionate care, my goal is to address the healthcare requirements of various communities. My primary nursing objectives are to establish a solid foundation of clinical knowledge and abilities. I want to do well in school and throughout my clinical rotations so that I can obtain practical experience in a range of healthcare environments. Getting this hands-on experience is essential to building the skills needed to deliver top-notch patient care. I also want to get involved in extracurricular healthcare-related activities, like joining associations for nursing students and taking part in community health projects. Through these encounters, I will be able to learn more about the field and connect with peers and professionals who share my passion. In addition, I'm dedicated to solving the particular health inequalities that minorities face. This involves promoting health education in these communities and fighting for care that is culturally sensitive. By doing this, I want to help close the gap in healthcare results and make the healthcare system more inclusive and equal. My immediate objective is to earn an honors Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), which will prepare me for a career in leadership and a specialty in the field of nursing. I have a great sense of responsibility and determination because I am an underrepresented minority. I am aware that my nursing career is about more than just me; it's about setting an example for those who might face similar challenges. My goal is to serve as a role model and encourager for upcoming generations of Black women in the healthcare industry, proving that with hard work and determination, anyone can realize their aspirations. Achieving academic and clinical excellence, promoting health equity, and laying a solid platform for future specialization are my short-term objectives. I'm determined to overcome the obstacles posed by being a young Black woman in a disadvantaged minority and to use my platform to advance inclusion and diversity in the healthcare industry.

The sound of the old church bell filled the strong morning air as it rang out across the lively town. Grinning, I hurried up the stone steps, my arms heavy with boxes of canned goods. This identified the start of my service journey, my ties to the community, and my second home. The smell of old songbooks and wood polish welcomed me inside, as did the friendly smiles of the other volunteers. My grandmother waved me over to help with sorting donations for the food drive, her silver hair neatly pulled back, her Sunday best. The feeling of belonging washed over me as I put my boxes down and rolled up my sleeves. I thought to myself, I live here in this church. I was first involved in the local church as a child, going to Sunday school and engaging in activities with the youth group. But it wasn't until I was a teenager that I really started to realize the significance of community service. I was greatly moved by the church's compassion and kindness, which motivated me to become more involved in a variety of fundraising efforts. The church's weekly kitchen was one of the first projects I got involved in. Serving meals to those in need began as an easy task, but it quickly developed into deep conversations with those in our community who were going through difficult times. I gained the skill to listen to people without passing judgment, to give a warm meal and a kind word to them, and to see the worth in every person, no matter what their circumstances. My desire to do more was strengthened by this experience, which made me aware of the variety of needs in our community. I started taking on more duties after receiving encouragement from the pastor and other members of the church. I took part in home repair projects for senior community members, assisted in the organization of clothing drives, and even launched a tutoring program for underprivileged kids. In addition to allowing me to give back to my community, these activities gave me priceless knowledge of empathy, leadership, and organization. The yearly mission trips sponsored by the church were especially life-changing. My perspective on global issues has been expanded, and the significance of service beyond local boundaries has been reinforced by these trips, which have involved tasks such as rebuilding homes in disaster-affected areas and providing medical assistance in underprivileged communities. They showed me that kindness has no boundaries and that even little acts of kindness can make a big difference. The network of similar individuals my church involvement has allowed me to connect with may be the most important factor shaping my community service. It has been so motivating to work with people of all ages and backgrounds who are all committed to helping others. Not only has this feeling of community helped me grow personally, but it has also increased the effect of our group's efforts. My involvement in the church has changed as I've gotten older, but the basic values it taught me haven't changed. My volunteer work continues to be guided by the lessons I've learned about compassion, tenacity, and the effectiveness of community action, both inside and outside the church. I've applied these ideas to both my studies and my job, looking for chances to help others and change the world wherever I go. My local church served as the starting point for my service journey, which has taught me that true fulfillment comes from giving rather than receiving.

The disparities that Black individuals face in healthcare are often overlooked. Many black people are frequently tasked with performing "dirty work" for various fields of medicine. I intend to make up for that disparity, and I have ambitious plans for doing so. My main educational objective is to raise the proportion of Black individuals working in healthcare, and I have several projects in place to achieve this. It is disgusting that black people cannot access inexpensive, high-quality education, and I want to assist the individuals who so badly want to attend school but are unable to do so. To begin with, it is incredibly disheartening to see the poverty and discrimination that Black people face. But you could wonder, from where does this poverty originate? It stems from black single moms whose fathers are in prison, from being trapped in the poverty system, from gang and criminal rates, from every aspect, honestly. The important thing to remember is that efficient education and reasonably priced living expenses are essential to breaking the cycle of poverty among my people. As a young woman attempting to end this pattern, I understand that it will take time to complete this process. It takes much preparation, study, and a focused mind. I am here to fulfill that purpose and serve the world for this particular reason. I have studied nursing for the past two years at Erie 1 Boces Harkness Career and Technical Center in order to kickstart my academic career. I've been able to work with patients in a variety of settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, and medical labs, because of this curriculum. I have gained knowledge on useful topics including planning, problem-solving, and nursing studies. In order to have a deeper knowledge of how some people live, I have also dedicated a significant amount of time to performing community service in my neighborhood. Despite all that I have accomplished in my high school career, this is just the beginning and does not necessarily indicate what I will pursue for further schooling. Starting off with my goals, I want to major in nursing and minor in behavioral studies and addictions at SUNY Brockport. Since nursing care solely focuses on a patient's physical recovery, I feel that my studies should be focused on other areas. That's why I'm researching addictions and behavioral health: I need to determine whether the health issue stems from drug abuse or psychological trauma. Along with managing my department, I want to live a life dedicated to helping and supporting others. My goal is to improve patient care and hospital standards by giving nursing staff access to the latest advances in technology. In summary, I sincerely hope to improve the world by removing the generational curses placed on Black people and by giving effective care to individuals. I feel that my mission on our planet is to care for everyone and to assist Black people in breaking the cycle of poverty, even though I know it will be a difficult undertaking to do.

My decision to major in nursing was motivated by my desire to have a real impact on people's lives as well as my own personal experiences. As a child, I experienced firsthand the essential role that medical professionals play in giving those in need comfort and care. My decision to become a nurse was reinforced by my personal experiences in the medical field as well as my natural drive to assist people. This career choice offers a meaningful career by allowing me to blend my interest in medical science with my compassion. Being a young Black woman from an underrepresented minority, I have had certain difficulties that have influenced my career and academic objectives. It is important to have representation, and I am well aware of the prejudices and inequalities prevalent in the healthcare system. My objective is to be the best in my area, but I also want to be an advocate and role model for those from similar backgrounds. In order to ensure that everyone receives fair and compassionate care, my goal is to address the healthcare requirements of various communities. My primary nursing objectives are to establish a solid foundation of clinical knowledge and abilities. I want to do well in school and throughout my clinical rotations so that I can obtain practical experience in a range of healthcare environments. Getting this hands-on experience is essential to building the skills needed to deliver top-notch patient care. I also want to get involved in extracurricular healthcare-related activities, like joining associations for nursing students and taking part in community health projects. Through these encounters, I will be able to learn more about the field and connect with peers and professionals who share my passion. In addition, I'm dedicated to solving the particular health inequalities that minorities face. This involves promoting health education in these communities and fighting for care that is culturally sensitive. By doing this, I want to help close the gap in healthcare results and make the healthcare system more inclusive and equal. My immediate objective is to earn an honors Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), which will prepare me for a career in leadership and a specialty in the field of nursing. I have a great sense of responsibility and determination because I am an underrepresented minority. I am aware that my nursing career is about more than just me; it's about setting an example for those who might face similar challenges. My goal is to serve as a role model and encourager for upcoming generations of Black women in the healthcare industry, proving that with hard work and determination, anyone can realize their aspirations.

I have a special place in my heart for breast health education since it is so closely linked to my own experiences and the significant effects that breast cancer has had on my family. I will never forget my grandmother's fight with breast cancer because it helped me to appreciate the value of early detection, awareness, and education. My desire to pursue a nursing degree with a focus on breast cancer advocacy and care has been inspired by this personal connection. When I was little, my grandma received a breast cancer diagnosis. Our family was shocked by the diagnosis, and the following journey was difficult on both a physical and emotional level. I can clearly recall the anxiety and uncertainty that hung over us, but I also remember the courage and determination that my grandma showed during her struggle. Her bravery and strong will to battle the illness were heartbreaking and inspirational. Watching her through several therapies, handling side effects, and understanding every aspect of her condition left me deeply impressed with the importance of thorough breast health education. I became personally aware of the essential role that early detection and awareness play in the battle against breast cancer because of my grandmother's experience. It became clear that understanding is a powerful tool in the fight against this illness. Sadly, a lot of people do not have access to the information and resources that are needed to promote early diagnosis and better results. This understanding sparked a deep-seated passion in me to make an impact in the field of breast health education, making sure that more individuals receive the knowledge and help they require in order to make wise health decisions. I decided to pursue a nursing degree with a focus on breast cancer awareness and care when I started pursuing my education. I see nursing as a special combination of scientific knowledge, empathy, and the power to actually improve people's lives. I want to give patients the best possible care, support, and education throughout their diagnosis, treatment, and recovery, which is why I strive to specialize in breast cancer care. My mission is to provide people with the tools they need to take charge of their health, encouraging positivity and courage in the face of breast cancer. Along with providing clinical care, I have a strong commitment to educating people about breast cancer. Prevention and early detection are based on education, and I think it is the responsibility of healthcare providers to provide the public with accurate and easily understandable information. I want to close the knowledge gap between the medical community and the general public by educating people through educational seminars, community outreach, and advocacy programs, and by making sure that more people recognize the value of regular exams and self-examinations. As a result of my family's experiences and my desire to have a positive influence, breast health education is a very personal purpose for me that goes beyond just being a professional interest. My goals are to encourage people to take control of their health, raise awareness, and offer compassionate treatment through my education and future profession. I am extremely thankful for people of the community efforts, as their commitment to raising awareness of breast cancer has inspired and guided me along this path. By working together to promote awareness, advocate for causes, and provide compassionate treatment, we can significantly impact the battle against breast cancer.

I pushed open the door to my brother's apartment and was immediately hit by the smell of cigarettes and something else, something off. The heater's gentle hum was the only sound to break the dull silence. "LA?" My voice echoed in the empty space as I yelled. My heart raced as I made my way through the dim living room, and with every step I took, my sense of dread grew. I discovered him lying on his back in the bedroom, his body solid and icy to the touch. My world fell apart when I realized my older brother had lost his life to an addiction that had affected him for years. That day, which was a turning point that would permanently alter the path of my life, remains permanent in my memory. Addiction to LA took my family and me away forever. Seeing him battle with repeated relapses and attempts at recovery created an upward spiral of hope and despair in the years before his death. We knew firsthand the negative associations attached to addiction, and we frequently felt alone in our suffering and confusion. My brother's death left an unfillable hole in my life, but it also made me determined to understand this tragedy and figure out how to save others from going through the same suffering. I struggled with a wide range of feelings following LA's passing, including grief, rage, guilt, and an overwhelming sense of helplessness. While I processed these emotions, I started reading up on addiction in an effort to better understand all aspects of substance abuse and the difficulties associated with recovery. This quest for information turned into a lifesaver, a means of maintaining my connection to LA and turning my suffering into something positive. My own experience with the effects of addiction caused me to make a significant choice regarding my future in both higher education and the workforce. In addition to my nursing major, I decided to minor in addictions and behavioral health. This combination gives me the ability to address addiction from both a medical and psychological point of view, giving me a thorough understanding of the problem. Through my studies, I'm learning about the neurological causes of addiction, proven therapy methods, and the value of comprehensive care that takes into account both the addiction and the underlying causes of substance abuse. Beyond just assisting with my own recovery, I hope to make a significant contribution to the larger battle against addiction. My goal is to contribute to the development of new methods that address the root causes of addiction and offer enhanced assistance to individuals grappling with substance abuse. Making a difference is something I'm committed to doing, whether it's working directly with addicts and their families, creating new treatment protocols, or pushing for changes to the laws. I keep the memory of LA and the countless people who have lost their battles with addiction with me as I move forward in my education and consider my future career. Their testimonies strengthen my resolve to effect change. Even though my brother is not here anymore, I can still pay tribute to him by doing everything in my power to keep others from meeting the same end. I aspire to make a positive impact on a future where addiction is better understood and treated with greater effectiveness through education, compassion, and hard work.

I stood in the middle of the mat with my hands tightly gripping the blue and white pom-poms, and the entire gym murmured with nervous energy. Our team's routine was extremely important in the final round of the state cheerleading championship. As soon as our song's opening notes started playing, I automatically looked around the audience for a face I knew wouldn't be there. The familiar ache of my dad's absence was like a hole in the stands where other fathers were proudly cheering. However, at exactly that moment, I found strength in his absence, bearing the hopes and dreams of our team on my shoulders. Taking a deep breath, I put on my brightest smile and started the routine that we had done countless times before. One of the most unusual aspects of my childhood and adolescence has been my dad's temporary presence in my life, which has been caused by his repeated incarcerations. Because his freedom was unpredictable, he experienced a rollercoaster of emotions, including hope when he was released from prison and disappointment and rage when he would eventually return. My early education about the harsh realities of the criminal justice system and the profound impact of one's actions came from this cycle. His absence had an important impact in many different ways. Our family had financial difficulties and frequently had to rely on the help of family members and neighborhood programs to get by. I struggled with emotions of shame and abandonment as I tried to make sense of my love for my father and the decisions he made to keep him away. I had to quickly mature as a result of these experiences, taking on adult responsibilities and becoming independent. But my father's journey also gave me a strong will to steer clear of the same path in my own life. After observing the negative effects of his incarceration on him, our family, and our community, I have purposefully chosen to stay away from the mistakes that caused him to be imprisoned repeatedly. This commitment involves actively making decisions that will ensure a positive and secure future, rather than just staying out of trouble. I've focused on education as my ticket to a better life in order to stay away from the path of incarceration. I give my all in my studies because I know that getting good grades can lead to opportunities my father was never given. I have made an effort to fill in some of the gaps left by my dad's absence by seeking out mentors and positive role models who offer advice and support. I've also started participating in local programs that assist young people who are considered to be at-risk, hoping to use my experiences to help others stay out of the criminal justice system. The most significant lesson I've learned is how important it is to surround yourself with positive people. I pick my friends carefully, putting myself in a group of peers who have similar goals for a successful future. I devote my energies to sports, clubs, and volunteer work that improve my community and my life, as well as enjoyable but productive hobbies. My father's experiences are an important form of inspiration and caution as I look to the future. Even though I'm still hurting from his absences, I'm determined to use these lessons as motivation for my own success. I'm not just avoiding jail time by remaining committed, making smart decisions, and taking lessons from the past; I'm also creating a bright future that I hope will make my father, wherever he may be, proud.

I sat in my bedroom, staring at the blank document on my laptop screen as the clock on my laptop ticked past midnight. I was feeling very tired, which was not unusual after another demanding day of balancing work and school. I made the decision to make a commitment to myself that would open the door to a better life at this point of exhaustion and uncertainty. In spite of my financial difficulties, I refused to give up hope for a better future. My first commitment to my future self was to put savings and money management first. I made a commitment to educate myself on personal finance, investing, and budgeting because I am well-aware of the stress of living paycheck to paycheck, even if it means beginning with a small monthly investment. I promised to invest some of my income, no matter how tiny, first in long-term savings and then an emergency fund. I am aware that developing this habit at a young age will pay off in the long run by giving my older self financial security and the ability to make decisions driven more by passion than need. My second pledge was to make an investment in my mental and physical well-being. Because of the pressure to balance work and school, I frequently neglect my own needs and make do with cheap, processed foods and little sleep. I committed to scheduling regular exercise, even if it was only a quick yoga session before bed or a 15-minute walk when I had the time. I also made a commitment to learn how to prepare healthy, affordable meals because I knew that the habits I developed now would determine my health in the future. In addition, I pledged to put my mental health first by using the free or inexpensive counseling services my college offers and by learning stress-reduction strategies. I'm aware that by making an investment in my health now, I'm guaranteeing a better, more energetic future for myself. My third commitment was to develop deep connections and create a network of support. Being a low-income student who frequently feels alone because of her financial situation, I understand the importance of relationships in both the personal and professional spheres. I made a commitment to push myself beyond my comfort zone, join organizations that support my interests and professional objectives, and take an active role in class discussions. I also made a commitment to preserve and deepen my ties with my family and friends, who encourage me on this journey, knowing that these connections will give me courage and happiness for the rest of my life. I also committed to looking for mentors in my field of study because I knew that their advice could lead to opportunities that I might not have otherwise. A feeling of hope filled me as I completed writing my promises. Even though my current situation is difficult, I've come to understand that these commitments—to relationships, health, and financial stability—are not only promises to my future self; they're also strategies for getting through the difficulties I'm facing now. In addition to helping my older self, every little step I take toward achieving these objectives will immediately strengthen my quality of life. As I closed my laptop, the weight of my daily struggles felt a little lighter. Though I am aware that the road ahead will be challenging, these promises act as a guide, leading the way forward to a time when an older, more mature me will reflect on this crucial night and be grateful for the promises made.

My decision to major in nursing was motivated by my desire to have a real impact on people's lives as well as my own personal experiences. As a child, I experienced firsthand the essential role that medical professionals play in giving those in need comfort and care. My decision to become a nurse was reinforced by my personal experiences in the medical field as well as my natural drive to assist people. This career choice offers a meaningful career by allowing me to blend my interest in medical science with my compassion. Being a young Black woman from an underrepresented minority, I have had certain difficulties that have influenced my career and academic objectives. It is important to have representation, and I am well aware of the prejudices and inequalities prevalent in the healthcare system. My objective is to be the best in my area, but I also want to be an advocate and role model for those from similar backgrounds. In order to ensure that everyone receives fair and compassionate care, my goal is to address the healthcare requirements of various communities. My primary nursing objectives are to establish a solid foundation of clinical knowledge and abilities. I want to do well in school and throughout my clinical rotations so that I can obtain practical experience in a range of healthcare environments. Getting this hands-on experience is essential to building the skills needed to deliver top-notch patient care. I also want to get involved in extracurricular healthcare-related activities, like joining associations for nursing students and taking part in community health projects. Through these encounters, I will be able to learn more about the field and connect with peers and professionals who share my passion.

Love Island, the popular reality dating show, continues to captivate audiences with its blend of romance, drama, and entertaining challenges. Fresh and creative challenges are essential as the program develops to keep competitors on their toes and viewers interested. This essay introduces "The Whisper Challenge: Secrets and Signals," a brand-new Love Island Challenge meant to assess couples' nonverbal communication abilities and strengthen their bonds. There are two distinct places where the challenge is held: the "Secret Zone" and the "Signal Zone." These areas are divided by a transparent barrier. Each zone has one companion among the partnered contestants. While their partners in the Signal Zone, wearing noise-canceling headphones, have to guess the acts based only on visual cues, those in the Secret Zone are given cards with romantic or interesting chores to act out discreetly. There are three main rounds to the challenge, each getting harder than the last. In the first round, couples can earn one point for each accurate guess while focusing on simple actions. In the second round, the expectations are raised when participants must silently express complex emotions; accurate guesses are worth two points. The hardest challenge is in the final round, where participants in the Secret Zone must act out complex scenarios for three points if their guesses are correct. One special twist is a bonus round known as "The Whisper." Contestants in the Secret Zone can help their partner by whispering one word during this round. But making this decision costs two points, which gives the game a strategic component. The scoring system is simple: the winners are the couple with the highest combined score. In the event of a tie, the winner is the pair that used the whisper option the least. A romantic sunset yacht cruise is awarded to the winning couple, providing them with much-needed alone time to deepen their relationship away from the inspecting eye of other islanders. Within the structure of the program, this challenge fulfills several functions. Watchers are treated to a lighthearted and enjoyable spectacle as the competitors attempt to express difficult concepts with words alone. Above all, it provides information about how strong the bonds between the couples are. People who have a strong sense of chemistry and a profound understanding of one another are likely to succeed, while couples who find it difficult to connect might be at a disadvantage. In addition, "The Whisper Challenge" increases and examines the participants' nonverbal communication abilities, adding another level of complexity to the Love Island experience. This challenge highlights the value of picking up on a partner's nonverbal cues and body language—skills that are essential in establishing long-lasting relationships in a show where physical attraction frequently takes center stage. There are also chances for engaging and funny moments because of the challenge. In addition to humorous misunderstandings that could make for entertaining television, viewers may witness delightful demonstrations of feelings between strong couples.

My idea for lowering the cost and increasing accessibility of mental health services is to develop a modern mobile platform that combines technology, peer support, and expert advice. With the use of this software, users would have access to a layered system of mental health support, beginning with free peer-to-peer groups led by qualified volunteers. By creating virtual support groups that focus on particular mental health issues, users can reduce their feelings of loneliness and build a sense of community. Access to AI-powered behavioral therapy modules, which offer inexpensive mood monitoring and customized coping mechanisms, would be available at the next level. This app would enable telehealth sessions with verified therapists at discounted rates for individuals in need of more extensive treatment. This would be made possible by collaborations with mental health providers who are willing to provide affordable costs. The platform would have a "pay it forward" mechanism where customers who can afford it finance services for others who are less fortunate in order to ensure stability. This platform seeks to remove financial and geographic obstacles to mental health care by utilizing technology, community involvement, and a creative payment mechanism. It will enable anyone with a smartphone, regardless of geography or economic level, to get personalized assistance.

Competitive and sideline cheering has been more than simply a sport for me over the past ten years; it has been a life-changing experience that has shaped my future and given me comfort in the darkest times. Cheer has been my solid companion for ten years, helping me achieve my career goals as a nurse and giving me valuable lessons. Cheer has given me a lot of abilities that will be very useful in the healthcare industry. As essential to cheerleading as it is to nursing is teamwork. Success in carrying out a difficult task or tending to an illness depends on efficient teamwork. Cheerleading has helped me develop my capacity to quickly establish connections with others, which is a crucial skill for nurses who need to build trust with both patients and colleagues. Most significantly, cheer has given me a strong sense of self-confidence. Maintaining confidence in myself will be extremely helpful to me as I overcome the difficulties of nursing school and beyond and confidently handle difficult medical circumstances. Beyond improving my skills, cheer has been a refuge in difficult times. The cheer community came together to support and empathize with me after my grandmother passed away. My grief found a much-needed outlet in the physical demands of practice and performance, which helped me transform my feelings into something constructive. Additionally, cheer served as my escape as I battled my father's alcoholism, allowing me to temporarily put my problems aside and concentrate on personal development and success. Cheer provided me with structure and discipline during a time when my home life was chaotic, demonstrating to me that I could overcome any challenge with hard effort and determination. Cheer has prepared me for the demands of a nursing occupation, with its physical and mental hurdles. The stamina needed for demanding hospital shifts is similar to the endurance needed for extended practices. My ability to remain composed under pressure, which I have earned through competitions, will be helpful in critical care situations. Furthermore, the accuracy needed to deliver medications and treatments is strongly related to the attention to detail needed to establish routines. I think cheer has had the biggest influence on my personal development. It has helped me develop a positive self-image and taught me to embrace who I am, which will be essential for preserving my own mental health in a difficult job. I have a strong passion for greatness that will help me get through my bachelor's degree and continue on to a master's in science in nursing because of my ongoing efforts to grow and surpass my own limitations. This strong drive for improvement fits extremely well with the constant evolution of the healthcare industry, where lifelong learning is not only encouraged but also necessary. I am extremely thankful for my cheer years as I look forward to my nursing career. It has been more than simply a sport for me; it has been a life training ground that has made me a confident, solid, and kind person. My nursing profession is undoubtedly built on the principles I've learned and the abilities I've grown through cheerleading, which will empower me to confront obstacles head-on and give care with kind determination. Not only has cheer helped me get ready for the future, but it has also taught me the value of determination, cooperation, and self-assurance—strengths that will benefit me both in the nursing field and in all aspects of life.

My decision to major in nursing was motivated by my desire to have a real impact on people's lives as well as my own personal experiences. As a child, I experienced firsthand the essential role that medical professionals play in giving those in need comfort and care. My decision to become a nurse was reinforced by my personal experiences in the medical field as well as my natural drive to assist people. This career choice offers a meaningful career by allowing me to blend my interest in medical science with my compassion. Being a young Black woman from an underrepresented minority, I have had certain difficulties that have influenced my career and academic objectives. It is important to have representation, and I am well aware of the prejudices and inequalities prevalent in the healthcare system. My objective is to be the best in my area, but I also want to be an advocate and role model for those from similar backgrounds. In order to ensure that everyone receives fair and compassionate care, my goal is to address the healthcare requirements of various communities. My primary nursing objectives are to establish a solid foundation of clinical knowledge and abilities. I want to do well in school and throughout my clinical rotations so that I can obtain practical experience in a range of healthcare environments. Getting this hands-on experience is essential to building the skills needed to deliver top-notch patient care. I also want to get involved in extracurricular healthcare-related activities, like joining associations for nursing students and taking part in community health projects. Through these encounters, I will be able to learn more about the field and connect with peers and professionals who share my passion. In addition, I'm dedicated to solving the particular health inequalities that minorities face. This involves promoting health education in these communities and fighting for care that is culturally sensitive. By doing this, I want to help close the gap in healthcare results and make the healthcare system more inclusive and equal. My immediate objective is to earn an honors Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), which will prepare me for a career in leadership and a specialty in the field of nursing. I'll need the Bright Lights Scholarship in order to accomplish these objectives. Some of the financial responsibilities related to obtaining a higher education will be lessened thanks to the scholarship. I'll be able to concentrate more on my coursework and clinical work without having to worry about extra financial obligations. Furthermore, being awarded this scholarship is evidence of my diligence and hard work, which strengthens my resolve to the nursing field and inspires me to keep aiming high. I have a great sense of responsibility and determination because I am an underrepresented minority. I am aware that my nursing career is about more than just me; it's about setting an example for those who might face similar challenges. My goal is to serve as a role model and encourager for upcoming generations of Black women in the healthcare industry, proving that with hard work and determination, anyone can realize their aspirations. Achieving academic and clinical excellence, promoting health equity, and laying a solid platform for future specialization are my short-term objectives. I'm determined to overcome the obstacles posed by being a young Black woman in a disadvantaged minority and to use my platform to advance inclusion and diversity in the healthcare industry. With the help of the Bright Lights Scholarship, I will be able to concentrate on finishing my studies and having a significant influence on my chosen field in nursing.

My decision to major in nursing was motivated by my desire to have a real impact on people's lives as well as my own personal experiences. As a child, I experienced firsthand the essential part that that medical professionals play in giving those in need comfort and care. My decision to become a nurse was reinforced by my personal experiences in the medical field as well as my natural drive to assist people. This career choice offers a meaningful career by allowing me to blend my interest in medical science with my compassion. Being a young Black woman from an underrepresented minority, I have had certain difficulties that have influenced my career and academic objectives. It is important to have representation, and I am well aware of the prejudices and inequalities prevalent in the healthcare system. My objective is to be the best in my area, but I also want to be an advocate and role model for those from similar backgrounds. In order to ensure that everyone receives fair and compassionate care, my goal is to address the healthcare requirements of various communities. My primary nursing objectives are to establish a solid foundation of clinical knowledge and abilities. I want to do well in school and throughout my clinical rotations so that I can obtain practical experience in a range of healthcare environments. Getting this hands-on experience is essential to building the skills needed to deliver top-notch patient care. I also want to get involved in extracurricular healthcare-related activities, like joining associations for nursing students and taking part in community health projects. Through these encounters, I will be able to learn more about the field and connect with peers and professionals who share my passion. In addition, I'm dedicated to solving the particular health inequalities that minorities face. This involves promoting health education in these communities and fighting for care that is culturally sensitive. By doing this, I want to help close the gap in healthcare results and make the healthcare system more inclusive and equal. My immediate objective is to earn an honors Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), which will prepare me for a career in leadership and a specialty in the field of nursing. I have a great feeling of responsibility and determination because I am an underrepresented minority. I am aware that my nursing career is about more than just me; it's about setting an example for those who might face similar challenges. My goal is to serve as a role model and encourager for upcoming generations of Black women in the healthcare industry, proving that with hard work and determination, anyone can realize their aspirations. I plan to make a true change to the entire world. Achieving academic and clinical excellence, promoting health equity, and laying a solid platform for future specialization are my short-term objectives. I'm determined to overcome the obstacles posed by being a young Black woman in a disadvantaged minority and to use my platform to advance inclusion and diversity in the healthcare industry.

With a heart rooted in love, faith in God, and a commitment to community service, I am determined to make a positive impact on the world. I was raised in a home that valued love, faith, and service under the loving supervision of my grandmother, who also functioned as the mother of my family's Baptist church. The foundation of my values was set by my grandmother's strong commitment to her faith and to assisting others. She taught me that genuine relationships and communities are constructed on the basis of love. Her impact has motivated me to help others and approach each aspect of my life with compassion, especially in the field of healthcare. My upbringing was based mostly on my faith, which has guided me throughout my life. I have a strong sense of purpose and a strong belief in the ability of faith to bring about change because of the teachings of the Bible. My faith has given me tenacity and strength, enabling me to overcome obstacles in life and strengthening my will to assist those in need. My motivation to seek a profession in nursing stems from my faith, which allows me to meaningfully serve others by tending to the needs of the weak and in need. I was encouraged by my grandma to make community service a major part of my life. She was a pillar of our community and a spiritual leader who was always willing to help anyone in need. I have taken part in a lot of community service initiatives, like volunteering at nursing homes and helping at nearby hospitals, in her footsteps. My appreciation for the value of giving back has grown as a result of these encounters, and they have also strengthened my resolve to carry on providing increasingly significant services to my community. My motivation to increase diversity in the healthcare industry is what drives me as I get ready to pursue my master's degree in nursing. Professionals from a variety of backgrounds who can offer different points of view and cultural awareness to patient care are desperately needed in the healthcare industry. My goal in continuing my education is to become a healthcare provider of the highest possible standard, but I also want to become an advocate and a spokesperson for initiatives that advance equity and inclusivity in the healthcare system. My own experiences have made me aware of the inequities in healthcare, and I'm determined to be an advocate for change by making sure that everyone, regardless of background, has access to professional and compassionate care. In conclusion, my grandmother instilled in me the values of love, faith in God, and community service, all of which have had a significant influence on my journey. Her legacy and being an embodiment of hope in our neighborhood motivates me to keep trying to change the world for the better. I am committed to expanding diversity in the healthcare industry and preserving the principles of love, faith, and service in everything I do, which is why I am pursuing a master's degree in nursing. My goal is to continue the legacy of inclusivity and compassion by making sure that the treatment I give is a true reflection of the faith and affection that have supported me all of my life.

My decision to major in nursing was motivated by my desire to have a real impact on people's lives as well as my own personal experiences. As a child, I experienced firsthand the essential part that that medical professionals play in giving those in need comfort and care. My decision to become a nurse was reinforced by my personal experiences in the medical field as well as my natural drive to assist people. This career choice offers a meaningful career by allowing me to blend my interest in medical science with my compassion. Being a young Black woman from an underrepresented minority, I have had certain difficulties that have influenced my career and academic objectives. It is important to have representation, and I am well aware of the prejudices and inequalities prevalent in the healthcare system. My objective is to be the best in my area, but I also want to be an advocate and role model for those from similar backgrounds. In order to ensure that everyone receives fair and compassionate care, my goal is to address the healthcare requirements of various communities. My primary nursing objectives are to establish a solid foundation of clinical knowledge and abilities. I want to do well in school and throughout my clinical rotations so that I can obtain practical experience in a range of healthcare environments. Getting this hands-on experience is essential to building the skills needed to deliver top-notch patient care. I also want to get involved in extracurricular healthcare-related activities, like joining associations for nursing students and taking part in community health projects. Through these encounters, I will be able to learn more about the field and connect with peers and professionals who share my passion. In addition, I'm dedicated to solving the particular health inequalities that minorities face. This involves promoting health education in these communities and fighting for care that is culturally sensitive. By doing this, I want to help close the gap in healthcare results and make the healthcare system more inclusive and equal. My immediate objective is to earn an honors Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), which will prepare me for a career in leadership and a specialty in the field of nursing. I have a great feeling of responsibility and determination because I am an underrepresented minority. I am aware that my nursing career is about more than just me; it's about setting an example for those who might face similar challenges. My goal is to serve as a role model and encourager for upcoming generations of Black women in the healthcare industry, proving that with hard work and determination, anyone can realize their aspirations. I plan to make a true change to the entire world. Achieving academic and clinical excellence, promoting health equity, and laying a solid platform for future specialization are my short-term objectives. I'm determined to overcome the obstacles posed by being a young Black woman in a disadvantaged minority and to use my platform to advance inclusion and diversity in the healthcare industry.

I realize that, as a young Black woman on the brink of my future, I am driven to the healthcare industry with a purpose that goes much beyond simple desire. My experiences, my community, and a deep-seated desire to significantly improve the lives of others have all influenced my path to this point. Growing up, I often saw the obvious disparities in my community's access to and quality of healthcare. I witnessed neighbors and family members struggle to make sense of a system that occasionally appeared unaware of their needs and experiences. My determination to contribute to the solution was fueled by these outcomes. My commitment to change is the foundation of my desire to seek further education. In addition to providing an opportunity for academic success and personal development, college is an essential step in gaining the knowledge and abilities required to actually alter the healthcare system. I absolutely can't wait to interact with peers and mentors who are as passionate about healthcare equity as I am, to be challenged by new ideas, and to fully immerse myself in a different learning environment. I'm excited to learn about topics in the classroom that will serve as the basis for my future profession, such as public health, psychology, and chemistry, in addition to biology and chemistry. Beyond the technical understanding, though, I'm interested in taking classes that look at the sociological and cultural aspects of healthcare. Gaining insight into the ways that race, gender, socioeconomic status, and health outcomes interact will be essential to my development as a skilled healthcare practitioner and advocate. My ultimate goal as a professional is to practice medicine and specialize in a field that will allow me to directly address health inequities. Whether I work in primary care, obstetrics and gynecology, or another area, my goal is to help underprivileged communities by offering compassionate, culturally sensitive care. However, my goals go beyond providing treatment for a single patient. The foundation of healthcare is nursing, which is essential to both patient care and general health outcomes. In addition to offering medical care, nurses also frequently serve as patients' first point of contact by offering information and emotional support. They serve as the watchful eyes and ears of the healthcare system, treating patients, keeping a check on their illnesses around-the-clock, and frequently spotting and acting upon changes in their health before anyone else does. Nurses are invaluable in all healthcare settings, from community clinics to intensive care units, because of the comprehensive care they provide, which ranges from preventative health measures to critical care scenarios, which is what I want to be. Beyond providing direct patient care, nurses play a major role in the larger healthcare system. They act as patients' winners, making sure their rights are respected and their opinions are heard. In addition, nurses are essential to public health because they conduct health screenings, immunization campaigns, and community education. Their knowledge is useful for enhancing healthcare delivery systems and establishing public policy. Nurses are at the heart of accepting new techniques and technologies as the healthcare industry continues to change, always adjusting to give the best care possible. The profession of nursing is essential and has a significant impact on our society because of the compassion, expertise, and dedication of nurses, who not only save lives but also improve the quality of life for countless people. In the world of my dreams, I would lead the healthcare industry and strive to increase the diversity of medical professionals as well as those working in medical research, healthcare administration, and policy-making. I would like to advance policies that address systemic inequities in healthcare and mentor young people from underrepresented backgrounds. I also want to be involved in programs that recruit and support minority students in healthcare professions. Although the process will not be easy, I believe that I can make a true change in the world. In addition, I'm dedicated to supporting studies on health problems that disproportionately impact communities of color. I can contribute to more thorough and efficient healthcare for all populations by making sure that a diverse range of viewpoints is represented in clinical trials and medical research. Long term, I want to work in medical education and connect clinical practice. I can contribute to the development of a more diverse and culturally aware generation of healthcare professionals by influencing the curriculum and culture of medical schools. I am driven by the possibility of positive change, even though the road ahead is difficult. I truly believe that I can contribute to the development of a healthcare system that genuinely serves every member of our diverse society through dedication, careful planning, and a commitment to my principles. My path through college and beyond is about more than just achieving personal achievement; it's about tearing down barriers, creating opportunities, and laying the foundation for a more welcoming and equal healthcare system in the future.

I realize that, as a young Black woman on the brink of my future, I am driven to the healthcare industry with a purpose that goes much beyond simple desire. My experiences, my community, and a deep-seated desire to significantly improve the lives of others have all influenced my path to this point. Growing up, I often saw the obvious disparities in my community's access to and quality of healthcare. I witnessed neighbors and family members struggle to make sense of a system that occasionally appeared unaware of their needs and experiences. My determination to contribute to the solution was fueled by these outcomes. My commitment to change is the foundation of my desire to seek further education. In addition to providing an opportunity for academic success and personal development, college is an essential step in gaining the knowledge and abilities required to actually alter the healthcare system. I absolutely can't wait to interact with peers and mentors who are as passionate about healthcare equity as I am, to be challenged by new ideas, and to fully immerse myself in a different learning environment. I'm excited to learn about topics in the classroom that will serve as the basis for my future profession, such as public health, psychology, and chemistry, in addition to biology and chemistry. Beyond the technical understanding, though, I'm interested in taking classes that look at the sociological and cultural aspects of healthcare. Gaining insight into the ways that race, gender, socioeconomic status, and health outcomes interact will be essential to my development as a skilled healthcare practitioner and advocate. My ultimate goal as a professional is to practice medicine and specialize in a field that will allow me to directly address health inequities. Whether I work in primary care, obstetrics and gynecology, or another area, my goal is to help underprivileged communities by offering compassionate, culturally sensitive care. However, my goals go beyond providing treatment for a single patient. In the world of my dreams, I would lead the healthcare industry and strive to increase the diversity of medical professionals as well as those working in medical research, healthcare administration, and policy-making. I would like to advance policies that address systemic inequities in healthcare and mentor young people from underrepresented backgrounds. I also want to be involved in programs that recruit and support minority students in healthcare professions. Although the process will not be easy, I believe that I can make a true change in the world. In addition, I'm dedicated to supporting studies on health problems that disproportionately impact communities of color. I can contribute to more thorough and efficient healthcare for all populations by making sure that a diverse range of viewpoints is represented in clinical trials and medical research. Long term, I want to work in medical education and connect clinical practice. I can contribute to the development of a more diverse and culturally aware generation of healthcare professionals by influencing the curriculum and culture of medical schools. I am driven by the possibility of positive change, even though the road ahead is difficult. I truly believe that I can contribute to the development of a healthcare system that genuinely serves every member of our diverse society through dedication, careful planning, and a commitment to my principles. My path through college and beyond is about more than just achieving personal achievement; it's about tearing down barriers, creating opportunities, and laying the foundation for a more welcoming and equal healthcare system in the future.

Ola Mae Spencer. The woman with the perfect southern accent, light complexion, and wonderful southern hospitality. The church lady who took great pleasure in raising her children, the one who prepared the most delicious summertime Monday morning breakfasts, and the one who always had a sixth sense about everyone's problems. My grandmother was that. She has been the pillar of support for my entire family for many years, not just myself. Oh good God, without her, what would I have done? As previously mentioned, my grandma was an immense source of motivation for her community and a pillar of my family. She was admired by everyone. I wouldn't be who I am now without her; she was a true gem in the rough. She enjoyed serving as a leader in the communities she resided in, attending Sunday morning services, and Thursday night bible studies. She was a real child of God. It was my grandma who gave me the motivation to pursue a career in healthcare. I recall telling her that I had enrolled in my high school's pre-nursing program; she was ecstatic. As the years passed and her mobility deteriorated, I planned on caring for her when I graduated, since I'd have my certification in nursing aid. It was my turn to provide my grandmother with the care she so kindly provided for me when I was a child. Grandma was ecstatic when I informed her I would be helping her. "That's my Manda baby, growin' up to take care of her grandma." After hearing such comments, I felt completely enlightened and motivated to complete my high school education so that I could spend more time with her. Everything was perfect, and I knew exactly what to do. As time passed, Grandma was called home by the Lord on December 12, 2022, a chilly winter's morning. I was completely heartbroken and started to lose hope for my academic career. I was devastated that Grandma wouldn't be in my care, but despite all of the depressing information, I came to understand that Grandma had always wanted me to be successful. I set out to become a nurse since I knew that I was her final grandchild and that she would have wanted me to finish my schooling. I have to finish my studies since I know she's keeping an eye on me and wants me to accomplish everything with school. I have to finish my education in her honor because that is what she would have wanted me to accomplish if she were still with me. With that being said, I will begin my studies at SUNY Brockport in less than a month after being admitted to the nursing program in October of 2023. I proudly say that sentence. Who would have thought that one person would cause my life to completely change? Sometimes unexpected things happen in reality, and tomorrow is never promised. I know when I go to nursing class, I do it for her. getting myself through a harsh unit at school, I'm doing it for her. Mental blocks, I overcome them for her. At the end of the day, I do it all for Grandma. May she rest in heavenly peace.

The disparities that Black individuals face in healthcare are often overlooked. Many black people are frequently tasked with performing "dirty work" for various fields of medicine. I intend to make up for that disparity, and I have ambitious plans for doing so. My main educational objective is to raise the proportion of Black individuals working in healthcare, and I have several projects in place to achieve this. It is disgusting that black people cannot access inexpensive, high-quality education, and I want to assist the individuals who so badly want to attend school but are unable to do so. To begin with, it is incredibly disheartening to see the poverty and discrimination that Black people face. But you could wonder, from where does this poverty originate? It stems from black single moms whose fathers are in prison, from being trapped in the poverty system, from gang and criminal rates, from every aspect, honestly. The important thing to remember is that efficient education and reasonably priced living expenses are essential to breaking the cycle of poverty among my people. As a young woman attempting to end this pattern, I understand that it will take time to complete this process. It takes much preparation, study, and a focused mind. I am here to fulfill that purpose and serve the world for this particular reason. I have studied nursing for the past two years at Erie 1 Boces Harkness Career and Technical Center in order to kickstart my academic career. I've been able to work with patients in a variety of settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, and medical labs, because of this curriculum. I have gained knowledge on useful topics including planning, problem-solving, and nursing studies. In order to have a deeper knowledge of how some people live, I have also dedicated a significant amount of time to performing community service in my neighborhood. Despite all that I have accomplished in my high school career, this is just the beginning and does not necessarily indicate what I will pursue for further schooling. Starting off with my goals, I want to major in nursing and minor in behavioral studies and addictions at SUNY Brockport. Since nursing care solely focuses on a patient's physical recovery, I feel that my studies should be focused on other areas. That's why I'm researching addictions and behavioral health: I need to determine whether the health issue stems from drug abuse or psychological trauma. Along with managing my department, I want to live a life dedicated to helping and supporting others. My goal is to improve patient care and hospital standards by giving nursing staff access to the latest advances in technology. In summary, I sincerely hope to improve the world by removing the generational curses placed on Black people and by giving effective care to individuals. I feel that my mission on our planet is to care for everyone and to assist Black people in breaking the cycle of poverty, even though I know it will be a difficult undertaking to do. Just like Mohamed, getting the knowledge I need will not only help me reach my own objectives, but it will also help other people achieve their goals and assist others.

I realize that, as a young Black woman on the brink of my future, I am driven to the healthcare industry with a purpose that goes much beyond simple desire. My experiences, my community, and a deep-seated desire to significantly improve the lives of others have all influenced my path to this point. Growing up, I often saw the obvious disparities in my community's access to and quality of healthcare. I witnessed neighbors and family members struggle to make sense of a system that occasionally appeared unaware of their needs and experiences. My determination to contribute to the solution was fueled by these outcomes. My commitment to change is the foundation of my desire to seek further education. In addition to providing an opportunity for academic success and personal development, college is an essential step in gaining the knowledge and abilities required to actually alter the healthcare system. I absolutely can't wait to interact with peers and mentors who are as passionate about healthcare equity as I am, to be challenged by new ideas, and to fully immerse myself in a different learning environment. I'm excited to learn about topics in the classroom that will serve as the basis for my future profession, such as public health, psychology, and chemistry, in addition to biology and chemistry. Beyond the technical understanding, though, I'm interested in taking classes that look at the sociological and cultural aspects of healthcare. Gaining insight into the ways that race, gender, socioeconomic status, and health outcomes interact will be essential to my development as a skilled healthcare practitioner and advocate. My ultimate goal as a professional is to practice medicine and specialize in a field that will allow me to directly address health inequities. Whether I work in primary care, obstetrics and gynecology, or another area, my goal is to help underprivileged communities by offering compassionate, culturally sensitive care. However, my goals go beyond providing treatment for a single patient. In the world of my dreams, I would lead the healthcare industry and strive to increase the diversity of medical professionals as well as those working in medical research, healthcare administration, and policy-making. I would like to advance policies that address systemic inequities in healthcare and mentor young people from underrepresented backgrounds. I also want to be involved in programs that recruit and support minority students in healthcare professions. Although the process will not be easy, I believe that I can make a true change in the world. In addition, I'm dedicated to supporting studies on health problems that disproportionately impact communities of color. I can contribute to more thorough and efficient healthcare for all populations by making sure that a diverse range of viewpoints is represented in clinical trials and medical research. Long term, I want to work in medical education and connect clinical practice. I can contribute to the development of a more diverse and culturally aware generation of healthcare professionals by influencing the curriculum and culture of medical schools. I am driven by the possibility of positive change, even though the road ahead is difficult. I truly believe that I can contribute to the development of a healthcare system that genuinely serves every member of our diverse society through dedication, careful planning, and a commitment to my principles. My path through college and beyond is about more than just achieving personal achievement; it's about tearing down barriers, creating opportunities, and laying the foundation for a more welcoming and equal healthcare system in the future.

My path as a young Black woman working in healthcare has been shaped by specific possibilities and obstacles. My experiences have shaped my viewpoint now and will keep influencing it going forward in this important sector of the economy. I was immediately aware of my status as a minority when I registered for my first nursing course. I frequently noticed that I was one of the few, if not the only, black people in the room in educational and medical settings. This reality carried with it a range of emotions, including satisfaction in shattering stereotypes, pressure to do a good job representing my group, and occasionally a feeling of loneliness. The lack of diversity is not limited to academic settings. I've observed a dearth of Black healthcare professionals during my clinical rotations, particularly in leadership roles. It has occasionally been difficult for me to imagine my own professional path because there aren't many role models that look like me. But it has also strengthened my will to succeed so that I can become that person who inspires the next generation. My interactions with patients and coworkers have also been influenced by my gender and color. I've encountered microaggressions—subtle, often unintentional displays of prejudice—from both parties. Some patients have expressed doubts about my qualifications or thought I was support personnel rather than a future medical professional. Remarks about my hair and my pronunciation have been met with informal comments from colleagues that unknowingly reflect their own biases. Even though they can sometimes be disappointing, these experiences have improved my communication abilities and strengthened my commitment. I've gained confidence in my ability to speak up in professional contexts and teach others about inclusion and diversity in healthcare settings. Moreover, my perspective on healthcare disparities is distinct due to my identity as a Black woman. I have personally seen how injustices in society impact minority groups' health results. The desire to address these inequities and provide care that is culturally competent has been sparked by this awareness. As I look to the future, I see both possibilities and challenges. Diversity is becoming more and more important in the healthcare sector, but the change is gradual. I might have to put in more effort to establish my value or confront more obstacles in my career advancement. However, I see hope in the growing understanding of the importance of cultural competence in healthcare and the contributions that other viewpoints make to patient care. In addition to providing treatment, I see myself as an advocate for systemic change. My background as a young Black woman will influence how I treat patients, enabling me to relate to and understand the requirements of a variety of demographics. In addition to mentoring other young Black women pursuing careers in the profession, my goals are to further research on health disparities. In conclusion, there are many obstacles faced by young Black women working in healthcare, but there is also a special chance to promote change. I want to have a great career and contribute to the creation of a more varied and equitable healthcare system for all people. I plan to achieve this by persevering, achieving success, and speaking out for inclusion.

There was a sneeze to start it. A single, quiet achoo from a stressed-out businesswoman hurrying through the airport. Unaware of the chaos she had just caused, she kept running toward the entrance without even pausing to catch her breath. One droplet was launched into the air by the sneeze and landed on a neighboring departure board's screen. As he carefully wiped down the surfaces, a janitor wiped his cloth over the infected screen. The moisture induced a short circuit, causing the flight times to abruptly start flashing. Doubt multiplied like wildfire. Unaware of their departure times, travelers swarmed the information desks. Tension crackled in the air as lines snaked through the terminal and tempers broke out. A security alarm was triggered after a distracted traveler left their luggage unsecured during the chaos. Flights were grounded, causing a ripple effect on airports nationwide as the bomb squad descended on the "suspicious package" (which turned out to be nothing more than an overstuffed suitcase full of souvenirs). Plane delays resulted in missed connections, which drove up demand for hotel and rental car reservations. Back at the starting point of our butterfly effect, the businesswoman eventually made it to her gate, only to discover that her flight had been canceled. She grabbed a cab out of frustration and desperation to make her appointment. Sensing her anxiousness, the taxi driver decided to take a chance and cut through a construction zone. The taxi's tire was flattened after discovering one loose bolt. They stopped in front of a fire hydrant, hobbling to a stop. As luck would have it, a cat decided to climb that very hydrant at that exact moment, startled by the car's unexpected appearance. The rusty valve of the fire hydrant fell way with a grunt of protesting metal as the startled cat's claws grabbed on it. Like a geyser, water shot skyward, soaking everything in its path. The unplanned urban waterpark formed in the middle of the street, causing traffic to screech to a stop. Already circling to cover the chaos at the airport, news helicopters now had a new show to cover. The city was compelled to turn off the water to multiple blocks due to a broken water main, including a charming bakery that was getting ready for a well-known wedding. Fearing they wouldn't have enough water to complete their recipes, the bakers went into a frenzy, looking for another location and caterer. As word of the disastrous marriage spread on social media, a well-known streaming service became interested. Seeing an opening, they sent a film team to capture the tragedy as it was happening, offering the couple a large payment for the rights to their narrative. The ensuing documentary went viral right away, and as couples competed for their 15 minutes of fame and a chance at easy money, a practice of purposefully ruining weddings began. The cost of wedding insurance shot through the roof, and a whole new sector of professional wedding ruiners was born. Furthermore, as the sun descended on this remarkable day, the entrepreneur, unclean and many hours behind schedule, arrived at her meeting, blissfully oblivious to the cascading effects of her lone sneeze. She expressed her sincere regret and blamed her lateness on "a series of unfortunate events." If only she knew. Sometimes all it takes is a single, small thread to reveal the complete pattern in the amazing material of life. Therefore, keep in mind that everything may go wrong in the most wildly surprising way possible the next time someone asks, "What could go wrong?"

The disparities that Black individuals face in healthcare are often overlooked. Many black people are frequently tasked with performing "dirty work" for various fields of medicine. I intend to make up for that disparity, and I have ambitious plans for doing so. My main educational objective is to raise the proportion of Black individuals working in healthcare, and I have several projects in place to achieve this. It is disgusting that black people cannot access inexpensive, high-quality education, and I want to assist the individuals who so badly want to attend school but are unable to do so. To begin with, it is incredibly disheartening to see the poverty and discrimination that Black people face. But you could wonder, from where does this poverty originate? It stems from black single moms whose fathers are in prison, from being trapped in the poverty system, from gang and criminal rates, from every aspect, honestly. The important thing to remember is that efficient education and reasonably priced living expenses are essential to breaking the cycle of poverty among my people. As a young woman attempting to end this pattern, I understand that it will take time to complete this process. It takes much preparation, study, and a focused mind. I am here to fulfill that purpose and serve the world for this particular reason. I have studied nursing for the past two years at Erie 1 Boces Harkness Career and Technical Center in order to kickstart my academic career. I've been able to work with patients in a variety of settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, and medical labs, because of this curriculum. I have gained knowledge on useful topics including planning, problem-solving, and nursing studies. In order to have a deeper knowledge of how some people live, I have also dedicated a significant amount of time to performing community service in my neighborhood. Despite all that I have accomplished in my high school career, this is just the beginning and does not necessarily indicate what I will pursue for further schooling. Starting off with my goals, I want to major in nursing and minor in behavioral studies and addictions at SUNY Brockport. Since nursing care solely focuses on a patient's physical recovery, I feel that my studies should be focused on other areas. That's why I'm researching addictions and behavioral health: I need to determine whether the health issue stems from drug abuse or psychological trauma. Along with managing my department, I want to live a life dedicated to helping and supporting others. My goal is to improve patient care and hospital standards by giving nursing staff access to the latest advances in technology. In summary, I sincerely hope to improve the world by removing the generational curses placed on Black people and by giving effective care to individuals. I feel that my mission on our planet is to care for everyone and to assist Black people in breaking the cycle of poverty, even though I know it will be a difficult undertaking to do. By getting the knowledge I need, this will not only help me reach my own objectives, but it will also help other people achieve their goals and assist others.

My grandmother's hands were constantly working, whether it was kneading dough for her famous Bundt pound cake, taking care of her colorful garden, or softly caressing my hair while she told me stories from her early years. She had a lifetime of memories, wisdom, and a never-ending interest in the world around her, and her mind was just as busy. But those hands started to shake as the years went by, and the beautiful tapestry of her thoughts started to fall apart, thread by thread. At first, dementia crept into our lives like a fog coming in from the water. Little things like lost objects, missed appointments, or random moments of disorientation were where it all started. We shrugged it off, thinking that was just part of growing older. However, as time passed, the fog grew thicker, hiding more and more of the grandmother I had come to know and love. When the diagnosis was finally made, it was both shocking and relieving. The word "dementia" carried huge weight and provoked fear, but it also offered an explanation for the changes we had been observing. It was an important turning point in our lives, the start of a journey that would try our love, our tolerance, and our comprehension of what it meant to be a caregiver. Our duties started to change as my grandmother's thinking skills declined. I needed to take care of this woman who had previously taken care of me. Easy jobs turned into huge obstacles. To keep her safe, food had to be made, prescriptions had to be filled, and she needed to be constantly watched over. Seeing her struggle with tasks that had previously come naturally to her was heartbreaking, but I had to do it for Grandma. Dementia was able to weaken her memories and skills, but it was unable to alter the essence of her identity. Her gentle spirit and compassionate heart never wavered. On her good days, she would occasionally show hints of her former personality, such as a chuckle that was familiar to her, a realization, or a burst of her signature humor. By serving as a constant reminder of the person behind the illness, these priceless moments became our lifeline. I started my high school health careers program at this time, which turned out to be a decision that would change my life in unexpected ways. I became interested in dementia as I learned more about the medical field. I studied the biology of dementia in class, which included the development of plaques and tangles in the brain that interfere with neuronal circuits. I studied the various forms of dementia, each with distinct traits and difficulties, ranging from vascular dementia to Alzheimer's disease. I was able to fully understand the physical changes in my grandmother's brain thanks to this understanding, which also gave the symptoms we were seeing at home a scientific basis. However, the program's helpful features were what really made me realize what was going on. We gained knowledge of patient care methods, communication approaches, and the significance of maintaining the respect and standard of living of dementia patients. I was amazed to see that patients who had trouble speaking could still sing along to childhood songs when I first learned about the effectiveness of music therapy. I discovered how important routine and comfortable settings are to lowering anxiety and disorientation. I went into my grandmother's care with a new understanding and excitement after learning this new information. I made memory books with pictures and stories from her background that we would peruse together when we visited. I listened to her favorite music and enjoyed watching her eyes brighten as she sang along. I discovered that it was better to embrace her world than to try to push her into ours, giving her experiences and feelings validation even when they didn't fit with the here and now. I learned the value of caregivers taking care of themselves through the health careers program. I gained knowledge regarding the idea of fatigued compassion and the necessity of short-term care. With this understanding, I was able to support my family through the difficult tasks of taking care of my grandma, promoting time off, and getting outside assistance as required. The more my grandmother's condition worsened, the more my program's courses were worth learning. I gained knowledge about providing warmth and respect to a person in their last days, as well as end-of-life care. I felt more prepared to participate in those discussions when it came time to make tough decisions about her care since I had more information and empathy on my side. Reflecting on the past, I see that, despite its brutality, dementia has placed upon me a significant blessing. My bond with my grandmother became deeper as a result, which surprised me. We lived in the present, enjoying small joys like the taste of her favorite ice cream, the warmth of the sun on our faces, or the solace of holding hands in silence while her memory faded. My life's journey has been shaped by my relationship with my grandmother's dementia and the education I received from my health careers program. I now have a great deal of respect for the elderly and a strong desire to help individuals who suffer from memory problems. I am confident that my grandmother's path will continue to inspire and mentor me, regardless of whether I choose to work in the medical field or just use this information to be a more caring part of society. Dementia succeeded in taking my grandmother's memories, but it was unable to take away our love for one another. And she has given me something that will last a lifetime—a greater understanding of the human spirit and the strength of compassion in the face of hardship—through my education and our shared experience.

The disparities that Black individuals face in healthcare are often overlooked. Many black people are frequently tasked with performing "dirty work" for various fields of medicine. I intend to make up for that disparity, and I have ambitious plans for doing so. My main educational objective is to raise the proportion of Black individuals working in healthcare, and I have several projects in place to achieve this. It is disgusting that black people cannot access inexpensive, high-quality education, and I want to assist the individuals who so badly want to attend school but are unable to do so. To begin with, it is incredibly disheartening to see the poverty and discrimination that Black people face. But you could wonder, from where does this poverty originate? It stems from black single moms whose fathers are in prison, from being trapped in the poverty system, from gang and criminal rates, from every aspect, honestly. The important thing to remember is that efficient education and reasonably priced living expenses are essential to breaking the cycle of poverty among my people. As a young woman attempting to end this pattern, I understand that it will take time to complete this process. It takes much preparation, study, and a focused mind. I am here to fulfill that purpose and serve the world for this particular reason. I have studied nursing for the past two years at Erie 1 Boces Harkness Career and Technical Center in order to kickstart my academic career. I've been able to work with patients in a variety of settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, and medical labs, because of this curriculum. I have gained knowledge on useful topics including planning, problem-solving, and nursing studies. In order to have a deeper knowledge of how some people live, I have also dedicated a significant amount of time to performing community service in my neighborhood. Despite all that I have accomplished in my high school career, this is just the beginning and does not necessarily indicate what I will pursue for further schooling. Starting off with my goals, I want to major in nursing and minor in behavioral studies and addictions at SUNY Brockport. Since nursing care solely focuses on a patient's physical recovery, I feel that my studies should be focused on other areas. That's why I'm researching addictions and behavioral health: I need to determine whether the health issue stems from drug abuse or psychological trauma. Along with managing my department, I want to live a life dedicated to helping and supporting others. My goal is to improve patient care and hospital standards by giving nursing staff access to the latest advances in technology. In summary, I sincerely hope to improve the world by removing the generational curses placed on Black people and by giving effective care to individuals. I feel that my mission on our planet is to care for everyone and to assist Black people in breaking the cycle of poverty, even though I know it will be a difficult undertaking to do. By getting the knowledge I need, this will not only help me reach my own objectives, but it will also help other people achieve their goals and assist others.

It was difficult to grow up in a welfare-dependent family, but it also gave me a strong sense of sustainability and drive. My family's financial struggles inspired me to end the cycle of poverty and build a better future for myself and other people in such circumstances. I was taught early on the necessity of education and the worth of hard work. My path, which started at age 14 when I got a job and involved careful college savings, demonstrates my dedication to overcoming hardships and motivating members of disadvantaged groups to follow in my footsteps. A significant part of my childhood was formed by the realities of living on assistance. The limitations placed on us by our financial circumstances and the ongoing battle to make ends meet were awful. But these difficulties also gave me an immense feeling of accountability and motivation. I was resolved to take advantage of every chance to ensure my future since I understood that education was the key to a better life. Due to my determination, I began working at the age of 14 while juggling my coursework in order to support my family's income and save for college. I worked after school and on the weekends at Tops Friendly Markets, a nearby grocery store, as my first job. To supplement my income, I also started taking on tutoring and childcare duties. Every pay period, regardless of size, was carefully planned out in a budget. I used a large amount of cash to help with the house's expenses and saved the remainder for my education fund. I learned the importance of money, time management, and determination from these early professional experiences. They also gave me a sense of accomplishment and direction, as they knew I was making efforts to improve my future. As I get ready for college, I'm still determined to keep up good financial practices. I now have a thorough understanding of financial planning and budgeting, which will be useful to me in the future. By continuing to work part-time while I study, applying for scholarships, and living within my means, I hope to graduate with as little debt as possible. By following these procedures, I'll be able to maintain my financial security and stay away from the costly debt trap that many college students fall victim to. Beyond only reaching my own financial objectives, I have a strong desire to promote and raise awareness of minority communities. I have an in depth awareness of the difficulties that many families encounter because I was raised in a cycle of poverty. Having said that, I plan to work with neighborhood organizations to develop projects that provide impoverished young adults with financial knowledge and assistance. The main goals of these programs are to provide young people the skills they need to create a safe future by teaching them how to save, invest, and create budgets. By providing information and tools to others, I hope to start a chain reaction that will help entire communities. Finally, I would say that the difficulties of growing up in poverty have influenced my path from a young adolescent working part-time jobs to a college-bound student. I've learned the value of endurance, hard work, and financial responsibility from these experiences. I'm determined to make good financial decisions, reach my academic and financial goals, and give back to the community as I start my college career. My ultimate goal is to use my training and life experiences to uplift and assist people in minority communities, enabling them to escape the cycle of poverty and realize their own potential.

Your sibling can become more than just the person you live with; they can become your support system, your greatest mentor, and even your possible parent. Being the only child in a home without a father, my brother was everything to me. Despite our seventeen-year age difference, my older brother felt more like a father to me. Whether it was school functions or just day-to-day living, my brother, LA, was there for me. No matter what we went through, he was genuinely my best friend and my biggest supporter. On April 4, 2024, everything in my life changed drastically. On that chilly, rainy day, I had to discover my brother lifeless. I still believe that I will never be able to go over it since it really destroyed me. In the space of a single eyeblink, my best friend, and second parent was gone. I had to learn how to take care of myself throughout this grieving period, which I always did, but since LA is no longer here, I had to really step up. Growing up, LA was the guy who everyone loved. Despite his height of 5 feet and 4 inches, he filled the room with affection. He loved to make people laugh, and he wouldn't leave the room until he had done so. He projected love, kindness, and compassion. Most significantly, despite the fact that my brothers and I are all younger than him, he always looked out for us and treated us like our "father". He lived each day accomplishing his daily goal of assisting others. He really was God's gift to us. In the long run, I learned to be kinder to others as a result of my brother's passing and how short life is. No one can guarantee tomorrow. Although LA's passing came as a complete surprise, I know he was an honest human being when he passed away. My brother is still very much a part of me, even though I mourn him dearly. May he rest in eternal peace.

My decision to major in nursing was motivated by my desire to have a real impact on people's lives as well as my own personal experiences. As a child, I experienced firsthand the essential part that that medical professionals play in giving those in need comfort and care. My decision to become a nurse was reinforced by my personal experiences in the medical field as well as my natural drive to assist people. This career choice offers a meaningful career by allowing me to blend my interest in medical science with my compassion. Being a young Black woman from an underrepresented minority, I have had certain difficulties that have influenced my career and academic objectives. It is important to have representation, and I am well aware of the prejudices and inequalities prevalent in the healthcare system. My objective is to be the best in my area, but I also want to be an advocate and role model for those from similar backgrounds. In order to ensure that everyone receives fair and compassionate care, my goal is to address the healthcare requirements of various communities. My primary nursing objectives are to establish a solid foundation of clinical knowledge and abilities. I want to do well in school and throughout my clinical rotations so that I can obtain practical experience in a range of healthcare environments. Getting this hands-on experience is essential to building the skills needed to deliver top-notch patient care. I also want to get involved in extracurricular healthcare-related activities, like joining associations for nursing students and taking part in community health projects. Through these encounters, I will be able to learn more about the field and connect with peers and professionals who share my passion. In addition, I'm dedicated to solving the particular health inequalities that minorities face. This involves promoting health education in these communities and fighting for care that is culturally sensitive. By doing this, I want to help close the gap in healthcare results and make the healthcare system more inclusive and equal. My immediate objective is to earn an honors Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), which will prepare me for a career in leadership and a specialty in the field of nursing. I'll need the SigaLa Education Scholarship in order to accomplish these objectives. Some of the financial responsibilities related to obtaining a higher education will be lessened thanks to the scholarship. I'll be able to concentrate more on my coursework and clinical work without having to worry about extra financial obligations. Furthermore, being awarded this scholarship is evidence of my diligence and hard work, which strengthens my resolve to the nursing field and inspires me to keep aiming high. I have a great feeling of responsibility and determination because I am an underrepresented minority. I am aware that my nursing career is about more than just me; it's about setting an example for those who might face similar challenges. My goal is to serve as a role model and encourager for upcoming generations of Black women in the healthcare industry, proving that with hard work and determination, anyone can realize their aspirations. Achieving academic and clinical excellence, promoting health equity, and laying a solid platform for future specialization are my short-term objectives. I'm determined to overcome the obstacles posed by being a young Black woman in a disadvantaged minority and to use my platform to advance inclusion and diversity in the healthcare industry. With the help of the SigaLa Education Scholarship, I will be able to concentrate on finishing my studies and having a significant influence on my chosen field of nursing.

My brother's death was a tragic event that left a huge hole in my life. It was a difficult path to navigate through the extreme loss and distress, but it also served as an opportunity for both professional and personal growth. I eventually obtained my Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) credential and a profession in healthcare because of the determination and power that I gained during this difficult time. Though there were many problems along the way, I was able to get past them and use my loss as motivation for progress by using healthy coping strategies. My perception of regularity was completely destroyed by the unimaginable pain of losing my brother. Following his death, I struggled with strong feelings that may have sidetracked my goals. But what inspired me to turn my sorrow into something worthwhile was his memory and my wish to respect his life. Just like I wish I could have done more for him, I also decided to pursue a career in healthcare because I wanted to help and support people in need. My main coping strategy was to make sure my goals were specific and doable. Rather than being overwhelmed by the scale of the overall goal, I was able to focus on one job at a time by breaking down the process of acquiring my CNA certification into possible tasks. I made a plan that called for signing up for a CNA course, doing the required material, and obtaining clinical experience. Having a goal and direction was made easier for me with this approach. I also found that asking my friends, family, and mentors for help was an important coping strategy. Their kindness and compassion gave me the mental strength I needed to keep going. Their assistance was essential in getting me through the most trying times, whether it was through comforting talks, helpful suggestions, or just being there to listen. I was reminded by this support system that I wasn't traveling alone and that there were others who thought highly of me. To help me deal with my sadness and stress, I also started practicing self-care in addition to asking for outside help. My practice evolved to include regular exercise, journaling, and mindfulness meditation. I was able to digest my feelings, feel less anxious, and keep a positive attitude thanks to these exercises. Taking good care of my physical and emotional health helped me be more adaptable to the demands of my CNA program and maintain focus on my goals. In addition, community work and volunteering brought me comfort. Giving back to the community and performing deeds of kindness gave one a sense of purpose and happiness. It made it possible for me to establish connections with people who were experiencing comparable difficulties, which increased my understanding and compassion. In addition to strengthening my determination to pursue a profession in healthcare, this experience allowed me to heal by truly improving the lives of others. In conclusion, I would say that although my brother's death was a terrible loss that affected me greatly, it also served as a source of motivation and drive. I overcame the challenges I had in order to obtain my CNA certification by making clear goals, using my time wisely, asking for help, taking care of myself, and volunteering in the community. This trip has demonstrated the human spirit's perseverance and the ability to use sorrow as motivation for positive change. I've discovered my calling in healthcare and am dedicated to improving the lives of others because of my brother's legacy.

April 4, 2023: It was a chilly, wet afternoon. Rain dripped down the windshield, and the wind blew fiercely as my mother and I prayed fervently for my brother's safety. "God, please save this boy," and "Heavenly Father, please guide me," my mother prayed as she urgently drove to my brother's house. I repeated, "Please, God, grant that my brother survives. Let us find him alive, please." Our prayers were intense and desperate. All I could think was: Where is my brother? Is he alright? What has happened to him? My mind was scattered, and I cried uncontrollably with anxiety. God, please spare my sibling from death. Outside my brother's house, my family and I pounded on the doors, drenched and shivering in the rain. "LA, let us in!" or, "LA, please come get the door!" I called out, but there was no response. We forced our way in and found my brother; he had tragically passed away. My heart shattered. I screamed in panic, overwhelmed by the shock of finding my brother dead and the uncertainty of what to do next. I had checked on him regularly, yet he died alone in his house. Regret washed over me as I wondered what more I could have done to help him. I paced back and forth, consumed by sorrow. God, why? Despite my grief, I had to care for my family. I suppressed my emotions to support my parents, my other siblings, and our extended family. Determined to find out what caused my brother's death, I discovered it was due to pancreatic issues brought on by excessive drinking. This realization drove me to take action to reduce alcohol-related fatalities. Already enrolled in nursing school, I needed to determine my specialization. It dawned on me that I could excel in pediatrics to address these issues early and eventually become a pediatric, addictions, and behavioral health nurse. As for my professional goals, I aspire to major in nursing and minor in addictions and psychological wellness at SUNY Brockport. I aim to lead my department and dedicate my life to helping and supporting others. I am committed to improving patient care and hospital standards by providing nursing staff with access to innovative technologies. I want my patients to see me as more than just a nurse; I want to be a nurse who treats her patients like her own children, who makes everyone smile and reassures them that everything will be alright. A nurse who truly loves caring for patients, all in honor of my brother, Arthur. May his soul rest in heavenly peace.

I have a special place in my heart for breast health education since it is so closely linked to my own experiences and the significant effects that breast cancer has had on my family. I will never forget my grandmother's fight with breast cancer because it helped me to appreciate the value of early detection, awareness, and education. My desire to pursue a nursing degree with a focus on breast cancer advocacy and care has been inspired by this personal connection. During my experience, I have learned to value the work of people like Annie Pringle, whose commitment to raising awareness of breast cancer has encouraged and inspired me to make a difference in this significant topic. When I was little, my grandma received a breast cancer diagnosis. Our family was shocked by the diagnosis, and the following journey was difficult on both a physical and emotional level. I can clearly recall the anxiety and uncertainty that hung over us, but I also remember the courage and determination that my grandma showed during her struggle. Her bravery and strong will to battle the illness were heartbreaking and inspirational. Watching her through several therapies, handling side effects, and understanding every aspect of her condition left me deeply impressed with the importance of thorough breast health education. I became personally aware of the essential part that early detection and awareness play in the battle against breast cancer because to my grandmother's experience. It became clear that understanding is a powerful tool in the fight against this illness. Sadly, a lot of people do not have access to the information and resources that are needed to promote early diagnosis and better results. This understanding sparked a deep-seated passion in me to make an impact to the field of breast health education, making sure that more individuals receive the knowledge and help they require in order to make wise health decisions. I decided to pursue a nursing degree with a focus on breast cancer awareness and care when I started pursuing my education. I see nursing as a special combination of scientific knowledge, empathy, and the power to actually improve people's lives. I want to give patients the best possible care, support, and education throughout their diagnosis, treatment, and recovery, which is why I strive specialize in breast cancer care. My mission is to provide people the tools they need to take charge of their health, encouraging positivity and courage in the face of breast cancer. Along with providing clinical care, I have a strong commitment to educating people about breast cancer. Prevention and early detection are based on education, and I think it is the responsibility of healthcare providers to provide the public with accurate and easily understandable information. I want to close the knowledge gap between the medical community and the general public by educating people through educational seminars, community outreach, and advocacy programs, and by making sure that more people recognize the value of regular exams and self-examinations. Annie Pringle, a devoted advocate for breast cancer awareness, has been an inspiration to me throughout my journey. Many lives have been deeply impacted by her determination to raise awareness, support survivors, and push for funding for research. I am greatly inspired by Annie's dedication to the cause, and her work serves as an unforgettable example of the impact that one person can have. Her ability to engage with a variety of communities and address the special difficulties that different groups experience in the fight against breast cancer really moves me. Campaigns to raise awareness of breast cancer should prioritize diversity, as demonstrated by Annie Pringle's efforts. Through interacting with disadvantaged populations and providing culturally aware guidance, she has contributed to making sure that more people have access to essential data and services. Her goals are in line with my own, and I am motivated to advocate for universal access to comprehensive breast health education by following in her footsteps. As a result of my family's experiences and my desire to have a positive influence, breast health education is a very personal purpose for me that goes beyond just being a professional interest. My goals are to encourage people to take control of their health, raise awareness, and offer compassionate treatment through my education and future profession. I am extremely thankful of Annie Pringle's and others' efforts, as their commitment to raising awareness of breast cancer has inspired and guided me along this path. By working together to promote awareness, advocate for causes, and provide compassionate treatment, we can significantly impact the battle against breast cancer.

It was definitely not easy for me to go from a major city school, where I was problematic and feisty, to a suburban school where most of the students were white and heavily privileged. I went to a school full of white, rich, preppy kids, and I was the usual "ghetto" black girl. I never believed that I was as loud or ghetto as they said. The pressure placed on me and the derogatory remarks classmates and teachers were making about me made the shift extremely tough, but I knew that despite all of this pain, I had to prove everyone else wrong. I was a bright, intelligent, powerful Black girl—not a distressed kid from the city. The person who attempted to disprove the unflattering accusations made against me was Mrs. Joann Ryder, my counselor for grades 7 and 8. From the first day of seventh grade until I left high school, Mrs. Ryder provided me with support. No matter what occurred, what people thought of me, or how I behaved, Mrs. Ryder was there for me and always tried to make things better. She was always aware of my happiness and sweetness, but the harsh remarks made about me were a result of my manners and skin tone. Mrs. Ryder worked hard to make me feel secure enough to attend school every day, regardless of my race or how other people saw me. "What can you do to prove everyone wrong? What can you do to disprove the reputation made about you?" was a favorite question Mrs. Ryder used to ask me, and it still resonates with me today. I had a plan of action and was motivated to disprove those opposed, but I needed a platform. Mrs. Ryder put in a lot of effort to provide me with a platform so I could begin to better myself, and she succeeded in doing just that. She took me out of lunch to avoid bullying and spoke to me about my future and what I could be doing to become better. She gave me life lessons on how to sustain an enjoyable lifestyle. Mrs. Ryder's words of encouragement and motivation encouraged me to immediately change my behavior. I began participating in a variety of activities, including cheerleading and track, and I even joined school groups like Helping Hands and the Foreign Language Club. In order to erase the negative perception that had been created about me, I occupied myself with uplifting people and activities. Within a few months, my grades began to soar, and I was actively involved in extracurricular activities in addition to being a high honors student. Mrs. Ryder was present for everything. She discussed with me having a stronger mental attitude, managing extracurricular activities and academics, and my groups and sports. She genuinely served as my role model for my middle and high school years I've managed to avoid trouble by continuing to participate in groups and athletics throughout high school. Overall, I am a successful high school student now, and it appears that people have forgotten the unfavorable things said about me. As a young Black lady, I'm heading to college with a nursing concentration. I've grown out of my "ghetto" and "fatherless" wild past. I'm a successful, educated young black lady who is driven to change the world. I am extremely grateful to Mrs. Ryder for inspiring me to become a better person. I can never express how much I appreciate her. Mrs. Joann Ryder demonstrated what it means to have someone who is ready to take all the risks necessary to achieve.

The nursing industry captivated me as a career choice because it embodies the perfect blend of compassionate care, scientific expertise, and the impact of making a difference in people's lives. I was raised caring for my grandparents, whose health deteriorated dramatically as they aged. My perception of the value of compassionate healthcare was impacted by my experience giving them daily support, comfort, and medical attention. Even though they are no longer with me, I chose to become a nurse because I want to pay tribute to them and the lessons they taught me. Their courage and thankfulness motivated me to commit my life to assisting those going through similar experiences and making sure that each patient gets the kind treatment and respect they deserve. The goal of my studies is to establish a solid academic basis for my future profession by attending college in the fall to pursue a nursing degree. The recognized nursing program at this university provides the thorough instruction and practical training I need to succeed in the medical industry. My goal is to advance my education by earning a Master's degree in nursing with a focus on nurse practitioner after completing my undergraduate studies. In the end, I want to work as a travel nurse practitioner, offering vital care and knowledge to various people around the nation. My professional path not only allows me to honor my dedication to enhancing healthcare access and quality for all communities, but it also satisfies my enthusiasm for helping others. During my high school years, I enrolled in a two-year nursing program at Erie 1 BOCES Harkness Career and Technical Center, a decision that proved to be transformative. This program provided me with the opportunity to earn my Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification by the time I graduated. The curriculum was comprehensive, covering both theoretical and practical aspects of nursing, and it equipped me with essential skills and knowledge that formed a strong foundation for my future in healthcare. The hands-on experiences, combined with the in-depth coursework, allowed me to gain a thorough understanding of the nursing field and solidified my commitment to pursuing this career path. For me, nursing is a calling and a lifelong interest that is strongly aligned with my basic values of empathy, compassion, and a commitment to assisting others. I'm dedicated to improving the quality of life for my patients, developing professionally, and fighting for universal access to better healthcare. My passion is nursing, and I can't wait to devote my entire life to this honorable and fulfilling profession since I know that every day presents the chance to significantly impact someone's life.

My life's work is centered around personal development, which motivates me to always aim for personal development in every aspect of my existence. My search for self-improvement is complex; it includes goals for my career, relationships with others, education, and health. It's a process that calls for self-awareness, dedication, and a strong drive to grow into the best version of me. For me, education has always played a big role in my personal growth. I consider learning to be a lifetime process, and I'm always looking to expand my knowledge and abilities in order to better understand the world. This dedication to learning is demonstrated by my goal of a nursing degree, where I hope to achieve both academic success and an understanding of the practical skills required to offer my patients the best care possible in the future. I am building a strong foundation for both my personal and professional lives by accepting challenges and looking for chances for improvement. Apart from my scholarly interests, I attach huge importance to developing significant relationships with others. These relationships offer a sense of community, support, and encouragement—all of which are essential for personal development. By putting empathy, active listening, and open communication into practice, I hope to become a better friend, family member, and member of the community. Having good relationships not only makes my life better, but it also teaches me more about who I am and how other people think, which deepens my understanding of how people interact and human nature. Keeping up my emotional and physical well-being is another essential component of my personal development path. I am aware that reaching my objectives and leading a happy life depend on taking good care of my health and mind. My routine includes regular exercise, a healthy diet, and mindfulness exercises like writing and prayer. I can stay focused, feel less stressed, and have a positive attitude on life because to these behaviors. I am making sure I have the energy and strength required to face challenges and embrace opportunities by placing a high priority on my health. I'm committed to my career's ongoing development and progress. My goal is to work as a nurse who not only gives patients outstanding care, but also speaks up for them and advances the medical community. I constantly look for mentorship, take advantage of professional development opportunities, and keep up with the most recent advancements in nursing and healthcare in order to accomplish this. My goal is to become a skilled and caring healthcare worker by holding myself to a high standard and being open to criticism and education. Ultimately, human growth is a continuous process that demands dedication, self-awareness and a willingness for change. My goal is to become the best version of myself, and I will do this by putting my attention on my education, relationships, health, and professional development. Although this path is not always simple, it offers many advantages in the form of a life full of fulfillment and purpose as well as the chance to positively influence the world. I am building the foundation for a future where I can achieve my aspirations and assist others in doing the same through continuous growth in myself.

Dear Future Self, As I sit down to write this letter, I am filled with a mixture of hope, excitement, and a bit of apprehension. You've come a long way from the person I am now, and I want to take this time to remind you of the journey we've been on and the dreams we've planned. I'm a strong girl now, having overcome many obstacles, including bipolar depression. Although it hasn't always been easy, each challenge has helped me become a more courageous person. My experiences have strengthened my dedication to minoring in addictions and mental health, as well as my love for nursing. These decisions were not taken lightly; they were the result of a strong desire to support and understand those who are struggling with mental illness and addiction and to provide them with the same kind of help and understanding that I have so frequently longed for. Do you remember the times when it seemed like an uphill battle with every step you took? When the feeling of bipolar sadness felt nearly unbearable? You fought. You discovered comedy at your lowest points and strength in your weaknesses. Not only have these characteristics shaped who you are, but they have also grown to be your greatest strengths. They have made it possible for you to develop genuine relationships with people, to feel their suffering, and to show them that you genuinely care. I hope that reading this hasn't made you forget how important mental health advocacy is. Do you recall how strongly you opposed the stigma associated with mental illness? Your voice was important back then, and it is even more so now. Keep using your position to speak for people who don't feel like they have a voice, to educate others, and to promote awareness. Because of your experiences, you have a unique point of view and have the ability to significantly change the healthcare system and other areas. In my imagination, you would be a highly capable, knowledgeable nurse who also had an incredible amount of empathy and compassion. You are a person who improves the lives of those you care for by providing them with emotional support and understanding in addition to medical care. You have the knowledge and skills to tackle some of the most important problems in healthcare thanks to your minor in addictions and behavioral health, and your personal experience has given you an understanding of how to do it with empathy and respect. I hope you will continue to take care of your personal wellbeing in the future. Taking care of oneself is essential; it is not a luxury. Always remember to find happiness in the little things, laugh a lot, and surround yourself with positive and inspiring people. By staying loyal to who you are, accepting your flaws, and appreciating your qualities, you have come a long way. If you keep doing this, your strength will only get stronger. Never lose sight of the goals and dreams that brought you to this point as you proceed. You have the ability to change things and shine a light on those who are most in need. Continue to advocate for change, to push limits, and most importantly, to never lose faith in God and yourself. With all my love and hope, Amanda.

Being raised in a home where my father's alcoholism cast a shadow, I was exposed to hardships from a young age. I had to grow up fast because of the stress of emotions and unpredictability all the time; I had to take on tasks and responsibilities beyond my years. I had to learn to live in a place where disorder was common and deal with the instability that came with having an alcoholic father. Even though they were terrible, these experiences gave me strength and determination that now define who I am. They laid the foundation for a strong mentality that has helped me overcome many obstacles by teaching me to see past my current problems and concentrate on my goals for the future. My determination was most recently pushed to the limit when my oldest brother passed away unexpectedly. His passing was a severe setback that resulted in an outbreak of sorrow and suffering. His disappearance left an unimaginable gap, and dealing with such a big loss has been one of the hardest things I've ever had to do. Nevertheless, I discovered a new sense of purpose in the middle of this sadness. The memories of my brother gave me courage and motivated me to keep going and succeed in his memory. The sorrow of his passing brought me to realize how important it is to live life to the fullest and keep going on, no matter how difficult my journey may appear. My experiences have molded me into a person who embodies grit in every meaning of the term, from my father's addiction to the devastating loss of my brother. Grit is about accepting adversity and turning it into an opportunity for personal development, not only about persistence. It is about finding strength in vulnerability and overcoming adversity with solid determination. Every obstacle I've faced has taught me something new, like the value of strength and the power of a strong will. I've learned that tackling challenges head-on and coming out stronger on the other side is what true strength is all about, not avoiding them. I have stuck to my dedication to my objectives throughout the entire process. I approach every day with an eye toward improvement, understanding that even the smallest step toward my goal serves as proof of my hard work. Rather than discouraging me, the challenges I've faced have strengthened my determination to succeed. I am motivated by my belief that I can succeed, regardless of how overwhelming the challenges may appear. What makes me unique is my solid determination, which drives my constant search for a better future. I have never been able to give up, and I never will. My experiences have taught me that overcoming the most difficult obstacles in life requires commitment. I am constantly reminded of my strength and resiliency by the challenges I overcome. I'm committed to ending the suffering cycle and building a future that honors the strength and determination that I've developed. I'm confident that I can overcome any obstacle that stands in my way as I go forward, using struggle as evidence of my determination.

There are many obstacles in the way of pursuing further education, and this has also been the case for me. Being a first-generation college student from a low-income family, I have had to overcome several challenges that have tested my willpower and persistence. Financial limitations, family obligations, and scholastic expectations have all presented huge challenges, but my faith and ongoing dedication to my objectives have served as a guide. Being a child in a low-income family meant that worrying about the cost of a college education was a regular concern. Loans, part-time work, and scholarships have all been essential in helping me pay for my education. It has taken careful time management and a strong work ethic to balance employment and school. My motivation has been maintained by my belief that education is the path to a better future, even in the face of the tiredness that comes with managing many duties. Maintaining this motivation has been significantly helped by my Christian faith. Putting my faith in God's plan and finding comfort in prayer has given me the strength to push through even the most difficult times. Transitioning to college-level education was initially scary from an academic standpoint. A major shift was necessary due to the strict demands and competitive climate. To fill in any knowledge gaps, I joined study groups, asked teachers for assistance, and made use of school resources. My academic performance has increased as a result of these efforts, and they have also given me more self-confidence in my skills. This confidence has been strengthened by my faith, which has taught me that anything is possible with God's help. I'm determined to use my degree to support my community in the coming years. My goal is to use my skills and knowledge to open doors for people facing similar challenges. I hope to have a real impact, whether it is through efforts to improve the community, mentoring programs, or support for educational equity. I think we honor the Christian values of love, compassion, and service when we strive to uplift others. In conclusion, pursuing a higher degree has not been easy, but every setback has made me more determined and has increased my faith. My Christian religion has been a foundation of resilience and drive during my financial hardships, family responsibilities, and academic obstacles. I'm committed to using my knowledge going forward to support and better my community, living out the giving and faith that have supported me throughout my journey.

I have struggled with the complexities of mental health throughout my life, frequently feeling helpless and alone. In the end, these hardships have led me to a fulfilling passion for nursing by strengthening my relationship with God and molding my character. I have developed a stronger, more compassionate, and deeper connection to my purpose and faith as a result of this journey. I had anxiety and depression from a young age. I would often feel hopeless after these struggles because they seemed like immeasurable obstacles. I still clearly recall the days that felt like never-ending wars against invisible enemies and the nights that were filled with restless thoughts. I turned to prayer during one of these especially difficult times, looking to my relationship with God for comfort and understanding. At first, my prayers were cries for help, desperate pleas for relief from the mental turmoil. Slowly, however, these moments of vulnerability became opportunities for profound connection. In my quiet moments of prayer and reflection, I began to sense a comforting presence, a feeling that I was not alone in my struggles. This was the beginning of a transformative journey. My relationship with God became a cornerstone of my healing process. Through scripture and prayer, I found strength and resilience. Verses like Philippians 4:6-7, which encourage believers to present their anxieties to God, brought me immense comfort. I realized that surrendering my worries to a higher power provided a sense of peace that surpassed my understanding. As my faith deepened, I felt a growing desire to serve others. It was during this time that I discovered my passion for nursing. The idea of providing care and comfort to those in need resonated deeply with my newfound sense of purpose. Nursing, I realized, was more than a profession; it was a calling that aligned perfectly with my spiritual journey. The connection between my faith and my chosen career became evident as I navigated through nursing school. Each challenge I faced, whether it was a difficult exam or a demanding clinical rotation, was met with prayer and reflection. I began to see my patients not just as individuals needing medical care but as people deserving of compassion and understanding. My experiences with mental health struggles allowed me to connect with patients on a deeper level, offering them empathy and support rooted in my own journey of healing. Through nursing, I have been able to live out my faith in practical ways. Every interaction with a patient is an opportunity to reflect God's love and grace. Whether it is holding a patient's hand during a difficult procedure or offering words of encouragement to a family member, I strive to be a source of comfort and hope. My personal battles have given me a unique perspective, enabling me to approach each situation with patience and kindness. Looking back, I can see how my battles with mental health have greatly accelerated my spiritual and personal development. They have improved my connection with God, grown my faith, and molded my personality. I have also come to love nursing as a profession as a result of this journey, as it allows me to use my faith and experiences to provide meaningful care. I am stronger and more caring than I was years ago, propelled by my desire to improve the lives of people and my faith. My battles with mental health, which used to hurt me, have now given me empathy and resiliency. With God's help, I have been able to use these obstacles to my advantage in both my personal and professional life as a nurse.

The nursing industry captivated me as a career choice because it embodies the perfect blend of compassionate care, scientific expertise, and the impact of making a difference in people's lives. I was raised caring for my grandparents, whose health deteriorated dramatically as they aged. My perception of the value of compassionate healthcare was impacted by my experience giving them daily support, comfort, and medical attention. Even though they are no longer with me, I chose to become a nurse because I want to pay tribute to them and the lessons they taught me. Their courage and thankfulness motivated me to commit my life to assisting those going through similar experiences and making sure that each patient gets the kind treatment and respect they deserve. The goal of my studies is to establish a solid academic basis for my future profession by attending college in the fall to pursue a nursing degree. The recognized nursing program at this university provides the thorough instruction and practical training I need to succeed in the medical industry. My goal is to advance my education by earning a Master's degree in nursing with a focus on nurse practitioner after completing my undergraduate studies. In the end, I want to work as a travel nurse practitioner, offering vital care and knowledge to various people around the nation. My professional path not only allows me to honor my dedication to enhancing healthcare access and quality for all communities, but it also satisfies my enthusiasm for helping others. During my high school years, I enrolled in a two-year nursing program at Erie 1 BOCES Harkness Career and Technical Center, a decision that proved to be transformative. This program provided me with the opportunity to earn my Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification by the time I graduated. The curriculum was comprehensive, covering both theoretical and practical aspects of nursing, and it equipped me with essential skills and knowledge that formed a strong foundation for my future in healthcare. The hands-on experiences, combined with the in-depth coursework, allowed me to gain a thorough understanding of the nursing field and solidified my commitment to pursuing this career path. For me, nursing is a calling and a lifelong interest that is strongly aligned with my basic values of empathy, compassion, and a commitment to assisting others. I'm dedicated to improving the quality of life for my patients, developing professionally, and fighting for universal access to better healthcare. My passion is nursing, and I can't wait to devote my entire life to this honorable and fulfilling profession since I know that every day presents the chance to significantly impact someone's life.

For me, pursuing a STEM degree in nursing is more than just a school project—it's a sincerely held desire motivated by my passion to provide care for people and a vision of a more diverse healthcare system. I have always been interested in the sciences, especially biology and chemistry, and how they combine to create human health. This fascination has grown into a passionate ambition to become a nurse, a career that combines my love of science with my commitment to serving people in an ideal way. My personal experiences have molded my knowledge of the vital role that healthcare plays in society, which has only strengthened my passion for nursing. As a volunteer at neighborhood clinics and hospitals, I have personally seen the significant influence nurses have on patients' lives. These encounters have made me realize how important it is to have compassion, dedication, and demanding attention to detail—elements that I try to live up to. Every encounter with a patient strengthened my decision to become a nurse because I witnessed firsthand how crucial nurses are in offering patients not just medical care but also emotional support—they are frequently the foundation of the patient care cycle. One of the main reasons I am pursuing this path is because I want to see more diversity in the nursing and medical industries. Diverse viewpoints are essential for addressing the specific requirements of various groups, and the healthcare system benefits greatly from them. As a person who belongs to a minority group, I have seen the inequalities and cultural differences that occur in healthcare environments. These understandings have strengthened my determination to succeed in my nursing profession and advocate for more diversity. I'm going to use a few different approaches to expand the diversity of nurses. Initially, my goal is to mentor students from underrepresented backgrounds and steer them in the direction of healthcare careers. In order to remove obstacles and provide the assistance required to successfully navigate the academic and professional environment, mentoring is essential. My goal is to motivate and encourage others to follow their passion for nursing by sharing my experiences and knowledge. In addition, I want to work with groups that support diversity in the fields of STEM. The outreach efforts that educate and inspire young people from a variety of backgrounds to think about careers in nursing and other medical fields will be the main focus of these collaborations. My goal is to establish ways through which healthcare education becomes more accessible to all people, regardless of their financial situation, by participating in community-based projects. In addition to these plans, I'm dedicated to continuing my professional education in order to stay updated on the best practices in inclusion and diversity. This involves taking part in conferences, holding workshops, and publishing research that emphasizes the advantages of having a diverse staff in the healthcare industry. My goal is to advocate for policies that promote a welcoming environment where all future nurses can succeed and act as advocates for change through these activities. In conclusion, a combination of my love of science, my personal experiences, and my strong commitment to helping people motivate me to pursue a STEM degree in nursing. In addition to my goal of boosting diversity in the nursing profession, I'm committed to helping create a healthcare system that is inclusive and welcoming. My goal is to leave a significant mark on the future of nursing and healthcare in general by mentoring, reaching out, and supporting inclusive methods of care.

The definition of success is complicated and differs greatly from person to person. It is often defined by reaching one's potential, achieving personal objectives, and achieving a happy and contented mood. While some define success as having a lot of money and material belongings, others define success as having a big impact on other people's lives or capturing difficult personal obstacles. Success is really about fulfilling one's goals, discovering one's purpose in life, and experiencing a sense of satisfaction and fulfillment. For me, becoming a competent and compassionate nurse is the embodiment of accomplishment. This idea of success comes from my upbringing in a home where obtaining a college degree was not valued and achieving financial stability was an ongoing struggle. Growing up in a household where financial hardship was a daily reality and attending college was not common has had a significant impact on how I define success. In addition to being a professional objective, my desire to complete nursing school and succeed in the field is a deeply personal mission to end the cycle of poverty and restricted chances that have defined my family's experience. Completing my nursing school education is a significant milestone in my pursuit of success. It represents not only the achievement of specific knowledge and abilities but also the removal of major obstacles that have traditionally prevented my family from pursuing higher education. I will be able to give myself and my loved ones a secure and successful future by training as a nurse. Given my history, achieving financial stability and independence are essential parts of success that my career will help me achieve. Furthermore, being successful as a nurse requires being a committed and caring healthcare professional in addition to having a stable financial future. A combination of technical knowledge, emotional intelligence, and a sincere desire to assist others is necessary for effective nursing. My dream is to work as a nurse who improves patients' lives by providing them with medical care as well as comfort and encouragement at their most difficult moments. A major indicator of my success will be my capacity to use my work to improve the lives of others. In the end, I define success for myself as achieving a meaningful and happy profession in nursing, getting above the financial obstacles that have delayed my family, and having a positive influence on other people's lives. The key to realizing this success goal is being a successful nurse after completing nursing school. I will be able to focus on my studies and professional development by reducing my financial burden, which is made possible by the scholarship opportunity. With the help of this scholarship, I'm confident I can fulfill my goals and use my nursing profession to improve society by providing caring and competent healthcare.

The definition of success is complicated and differs greatly from person to person. It is often defined by reaching one's potential, achieving personal objectives, and achieving a happy and contented mood. While some define success as having a lot of money and material belongings, others define success as having a big impact on other people's lives or capturing difficult personal obstacles. Success is really about fulfilling one's goals, discovering one's purpose in life, and experiencing a sense of satisfaction and fulfillment. For me, becoming a competent and compassionate nurse is the embodiment of accomplishment. This idea of success comes from my upbringing in a home where obtaining a college degree was not valued and achieving financial stability was an ongoing struggle. Growing up in a household where financial hardship was a daily reality and attending college was not common has had a significant impact on how I define success. In addition to being a professional objective, my desire to complete nursing school and succeed in the field is a deeply personal mission to end the cycle of poverty and restricted chances that have defined my family's experience. Completing my nursing school education is a significant milestone in my pursuit of success. It represents not only the achievement of specific knowledge and abilities but also the removal of major obstacles that have traditionally prevented my family from pursuing higher education. I will be able to give myself and my loved ones a secure and successful future by training as a nurse. Given my history, achieving financial stability and independence are essential parts of success that my career will help me achieve. Furthermore, being successful as a nurse requires being a committed and caring healthcare professional in addition to having a stable financial future. A combination of technical knowledge, emotional intelligence, and a sincere desire to assist others is necessary for effective nursing. My dream is to work as a nurse who improves patients' lives by providing them with medical care as well as comfort and encouragement at their most difficult moments. A major indicator of my success will be my capacity to use my work to improve the lives of others. Seeking this scholarship opportunity is essential for realizing my goal of achievement. Financial difficulties have always been a major roadblock in my academic career. I will be free to devote all of my attention to my academics without having to worry about money thanks to this scholarship opportunity. It will make it possible for me to have access to the resources and opportunities required for both career and academic success. The money needed for textbooks, clinical supplies, and other teaching aids that are essential to a thorough nursing education can be obtained through scholarships. In addition, being awarded this scholarship would be a significant validation of my endeavors and goals. It would be an acknowledgement of my ability and will to succeed in spite of the difficulties I have encountered. Not only would this affirmation give me more self-assurance, but it would also inspire me to pursue excellence in my coursework and future profession. My dedication to accomplishing my objectives and giving back to society will be strengthened by the knowledge that there are people and institutions ready to invest in my future. In the end, I define success for myself as achieving a meaningful and happy profession in nursing, getting above the financial obstacles that have delayed my family, and having a positive influence on other people's lives. The key to realizing this success goal is being a successful nurse after completing nursing school. I will be able to focus on my studies and professional development by reducing my financial burden, which is made possible by the scholarship opportunity. With the help of this scholarship, I'm confident I can fulfill my goals and use my nursing profession to improve society by providing caring and competent healthcare.

Technology's place in healthcare has grown rapidly greatly altering service delivery and enhancing patient outcomes. The delivery of care has changed as a result of the incorporation of innovative technologies that are becoming more accessible, accurate, and efficient. First responders and other allied health professionals—who play a critical role in the entire chain of care—are also being significantly impacted by this technological revolution, in addition to physicians and nurses. The use of electronic health records is among the most noteworthy developments (EHRs). The way patient data is exchanged, kept, and analyzed has been completely transformed by EHRs. By making health information easily accessible to authorized people, this electronic storage promotes greater care coordination and continuity. For example, EHRs facilitate easy access to a patient's medical history during a transfer from one healthcare facility to another, lowering the possibility of mistakes and treatment duplications. Another ground-breaking invention is telemedicine. Its ability to provide remote consultations between patients and healthcare practitioners has been especially important during the COVID-19 pandemic. This technique reduces the danger of virus transmission while concurrently increasing access to care, especially for individuals living in distant places. In order to provide consistent and prompt care, telemedicine has shown to be beneficial in the management of chronic illnesses, follow-up consultations, and mental health services. Significant advancements in patient care have also been made through wearable technology and mobile health apps. Vital indications including heart rate, blood pressure, and activity level are tracked by gadgets like fitness trackers and smartwatches. The immediate exchange of this data with medical professionals allows for the early identification of possible health problems and immediate action. When it comes to controlling chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension, where continual attention is necessary, such proactive monitoring is important. Allied health workers use these technology developments to improve their practices. Examples of these workers are laboratory technicians, radiographers, and physical therapists. For example, thorough inside images of the body are provided by advanced imaging technologies like CT and MRI scans, which help with accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. Virtual reality (VR) is being used by physical therapists to provide realistic rehabilitation programs that improve patient results and participation. Technology is incredibly helpful to first responders, such paramedics and emergency medical technicians (EMTs). They can perform vital tests, like ECGs, on the spot with portable diagnostic devices, and send the results to emergency rooms ahead of time, allowing patients to be seen sooner. This feature guarantees that the hospital is ready for the patient's condition, which could result in time savings and higher survival rates. Additionally, there has been a notable impact from new technologies such as robotic surgery. Surgical robots improve accuracy during procedures, resulting in less blood loss, smaller incisions, and quicker healing periods. One such example is the da Vinci Surgical System, which provides surgeons with improved vision and control during minimally invasive treatments. In summary, technology is a key component in modern healthcare, improving the effectiveness, accessibility, and efficiency of care. First responders and allied health professionals can deliver better care and improve patient outcomes by utilizing these improvements. The exciting future of medical technology, where healthcare is more accurate, proactive, and individualized, is promised by its ongoing development.

With a heart rooted in love, faith in God, and a commitment to community service, I am determined to make a positive impact on the world. I was raised in a home that valued love, faith, and service under the loving supervision of my grandmother, who also functioned as the mother of my family's Baptist church. The foundation of my values was set by my grandmother's strong commitment to her faith and to assisting others. She taught me that genuine relationships and communities are constructed on the basis of love. Her impact has motivated me to help others and approach each aspect of my life with compassion, especially in the field of healthcare. My upbringing was based mostly on my faith, which has guided me throughout my life. I have a strong sense of purpose and a strong belief in the ability of faith to bring about change because of the teachings of the Bible. My faith has given me tenacity and strength, enabling me to overcome obstacles in life and strengthening my will to assist those in need. My motivation to seek a profession in nursing stems from my faith, which allows me to meaningfully serve others by tending to the needs of the weak and in need. I was encouraged by my grandma to make community service a major part of my life. She was a pillar of our community and a spiritual leader who was always willing to help anyone in need. I have taken part in a lot of community service initiatives, like volunteering at nursing homes and helping at nearby hospitals, in her footsteps. My appreciation for the value of giving back has grown as a result of these encounters, and they have also strengthened my resolve to carry on providing increasingly significant services to my community. My motivation to increase diversity in the healthcare industry is what drives me as I get ready to pursue my master's degree in nursing. Professionals from a variety of backgrounds who can offer different points of view and cultural awareness to patient care are desperately needed in the healthcare industry. My goal in continuing my education is to become a healthcare provider of the highest possible standard, but I also want to become an advocate and a spokesperson for initiatives that advance equity and inclusivity in the healthcare system. My own experiences have made me aware of the inequities in healthcare, and I'm determined to be an advocate for change by making sure that everyone, regardless of background, has access to professional and compassionate care. In conclusion, my grandmother instilled in me the values of love, faith in God, and community service, all of which have had a significant influence on my journey. Her legacy and being an embodiment of hope in our neighborhood motivates me to keep trying to change the world for the better. I am committed to expanding diversity in the healthcare industry and preserving the principles of love, faith, and service in everything I do, which is why I am pursuing a master's degree in nursing. My goal is to continue the legacy of inclusivity and compassion by making sure that the treatment I give is a true reflection of the faith and affection that have supported me all of my life.

With a heart rooted in love, faith in God, and a commitment to community service, I am determined to make a positive impact on the world. I was raised in a home that valued love, faith, and service under the loving supervision of my grandmother, who also functioned as the mother of my family's Baptist church. The foundation of my values was set by my grandmother's strong commitment to her faith and to assisting others. She taught me that genuine relationships and communities are constructed on the basis of love. Her impact has motivated me to help others and approach each aspect of my life with compassion, especially in the field of healthcare. My upbringing was based mostly on my faith, which has guided me throughout my life. I have a strong sense of purpose and a strong belief in the ability of faith to bring about change because of the teachings of the Bible. My faith has given me tenacity and strength, enabling me to overcome obstacles in life and strengthening my will to assist those in need. My motivation to seek a profession in nursing stems from my faith, which allows me to meaningfully serve others by tending to the needs of the weak and in need. I was encouraged by my grandma to make community service a major part of my life. Like Kalia, she was a pillar of our community and a leader who was always willing to help anyone in need. I have taken part in a lot of community service initiatives, like volunteering at nursing homes and helping at nearby hospitals, in her footsteps. My appreciation for the value of giving back has grown as a result of these encounters, and they have also strengthened my resolve to carry on providing increasingly significant services to my community. My motivation to increase diversity in the healthcare industry is what drives me as I get ready to pursue my master's degree in nursing. Professionals from a variety of backgrounds who can offer different points of view and cultural awareness to patient care are desperately needed in the healthcare industry. My goal in continuing my education is to become a healthcare provider of the highest possible standard, but I also want to become an advocate and a spokesperson for initiatives that advance equity and inclusivity in the healthcare system. My own experiences have made me aware of the inequities in healthcare, and I'm determined to be an advocate for change by making sure that everyone, regardless of background, has access to professional and compassionate care. In conclusion, my grandmother instilled in me the values of love, faith in God, and community service, all of which have had a significant influence on my journey. Her legacy and being an embodiment of hope in our neighborhood motivates me to keep trying to change the world for the better. I am committed to expanding diversity in the healthcare industry and preserving the principles of love, faith, and service in everything I do, which is why I am pursuing a master's degree in nursing. My goal is to continue the legacy of inclusivity and compassion by making sure that the treatment I give is a true reflection of the faith and affection that have supported me all of my life.

The most significant influence on my life was the movie Moana, which changed my point of view and encouraged personal development. Moana touched me deeply and left a lasting impression on what I saw because of its compelling tale, rich cultural representation, and uplifting themes. Moana truly represents a story about resilience and self-discovery. A little Polynesian girl named Moana, the main character, sets out on a hazardous journey to rescue her people and repair Te Fiti's heart. Her quest to discover who she is and realize her potential is a figurative as well as a literal one. Seeing Moana face and conquer so many obstacles gave me the motivation to face my own issues head-on. Her perseverance and bravery in the face of difficulty served as an inspiration to me, motivating me to follow my goals in spite of challenges. Moana's representation of cultural history and the value of accepting one's roots had one of the biggest effects on me. The film beautifully displays mythology, Polynesian customs, and the characters' strong bond with the sea and the natural world. This portrayal sparked my interest in learning more about my own ethnic heritage. Having mixed ancestry, I frequently felt cut off from my history. But Moana's voyage made me realize how important it is to research and honor my heritage. It gave me the drive to discover more about my cultural background and gave me a feeling of pride and belonging that I had not had before. Furthermore, Moana's bond with Tala, her grandma, touched a personal nerve. Tala's knowledge, consistent encouragement, and faith in Moana's abilities were similar to how my own grandma and I relate to each other. My emotional connection to the movie was strengthened by the comparison, which also emphasized the value of ties between generations and families. With Tala's help, I was reminded of the priceless teachings my grandma taught me and the power that comes from having someone fully trust you. Another significant factor in Moana's influence on my life was its soundtrack. Songs like "How Far I'll Go" and "I Am Moana," with their inspirational lyrics and enjoyable melodies, became anthems for my personal development. The themes of self-belief, determination, and the guts to take risks are all captured in these songs. They provided comfort and encouragement during my own journey's darkest hours, acting as a kind of soundtrack. Moreover, Moana's portrayal as a strong, independent leader and her rejection of traditional gender stereotypes were very encouraging. Moana is a unique role model in a society where female protagonists are frequently reduced to supporting roles or characterized by romantic interests. She is an independent hero, a leader, and an explorer. My misconceptions about power and leadership were put to the test by this representation, which encouraged me to accept my strengths and aim for leadership positions in my own life. In summary, Moana has had a significant and broad influence on my life. Its themes of empowerment, familial ties, self-discovery, and cultural pride struck an emotional connection with me and encouraged personal development as well as an exciting sense of purpose. In addition to entertaining me, the film challenged and inspired me, making a lasting impression on my journey for self-awareness.

For me, college is more than simply an academic endeavor—it's a monument to resiliency, aspirations, and my family's constant support. Being the only college student in my family, pursuing a higher degree serves as a source of inspiration and accomplishment. My mother has been my inspiration; she gave up her own plans to pursue an education in order to raise her kids. My dreams linked to hers drive me onward. My story is one of love, tenacity, and a determination to use nursing to change the world as a low-income, first-generation student at SUNY Brockport. Growing up, the thought of going to college seemed like a distant ideal that was sometimes overshadowed by the difficult realities of our financial situations. My mother, an inspiration of strength and determination, put in endless efforts to support us. She frequently talked about her personal goals and how she saw herself going to college and working toward a profession that would improve our family's situation while also fulfilling her own desires. Life, however, had other ideas. Her goals had to wait since she had expenses to pay and kids to raise. She persevered in believing that one day I would follow the route she was unable to, in spite of these obstacles. It's impossible to overestimate the importance of being the first person in my family to attend college. This significant occasion signifies not just my own accomplishment but also the realization of my mother's aspirations and sacrifices. My acceptance into SUNY Brockport was a source of great pride and happiness and a recognition of years of perseverance and hard work. It was a break in the never-ending cycle of poor opportunities and a move in the direction of a better future for our family. Being a first-generation college student from a low-income background, my journey has not been easy. Financial limitations frequently loomed large, posing a threat to my goals. But these challenges simply made me more determined. My family, particularly my mother, has always supported me. Her sacrifices and faith in my abilities have strengthened my will to succeed. I walk into SUNY Brockport knowing that every step I take is for my family as well as for myself, especially my mother who has always taught me the value of education and the strength of dreams. My desire to serve people and have a real impact on the world is what drives my passion for nursing. Observing the effects of healthcare inequalities in low-income neighborhoods has motivated me to seek a profession that will allow me to effectively and compassionately treat those who are most in need. I consider nursing to be a calling rather than just a profession. It is consistent with my beliefs of service, empathy, and resilience. I'm learning the skills and information I need at college to become an effective and compassionate nurse who can support and better my community. In conclusion, as a first-generation, low-income student, I find that education has a deep significance for me. It's a journey shaped by the hopes and sacrifices of my family, especially my mother's unfulfilled wishes. Being a college student is evidence of tenacity, willpower, and the ability of education to change people's lives. My underlying desire to give back, to remember the sacrifices made by my family, and to leave a legacy of compassion and service motivates me to pursue a career in nursing. By this journey, I wish to encourage those who are going through similar difficulties by demonstrating that dreams can come true if you have the will, the support system, and faith.

With a heart rooted in love, faith in God, and a commitment to community service, I am determined to make a positive impact on the world. I was raised in a home that valued love, faith, and service under the loving supervision of my grandmother, who also functioned as the mother of my family's Baptist church. The foundation of my values was set by my grandmother's strong commitment to her faith and to assisting others. She taught me that genuine relationships and communities are constructed on the basis of love. Her impact has motivated me to help others and approach each aspect of my life with compassion, especially in the field of healthcare. My upbringing was based mostly on my faith, which has guided me throughout my life. I have a strong sense of purpose and a strong belief in the ability of faith to bring about change because of the teachings of the Bible. My faith has given me tenacity and strength, enabling me to overcome obstacles in life and strengthening my will to assist those in need. My motivation to seek a profession in nursing stems from my faith, which allows me to meaningfully serve others by tending to the needs of the weak and in need. I was encouraged by my grandma to make community service a major part of my life. Like Kalia, she was a pillar of our community and a leader who was always willing to help anyone in need. I have taken part in a lot of community service initiatives, like volunteering at nursing homes and helping at nearby hospitals, in her footsteps. My appreciation for the value of giving back has grown as a result of these encounters, and they have also strengthened my resolve to carry on providing increasingly significant services to my community. My motivation to increase diversity in the healthcare industry is what drives me as I get ready to pursue my master's degree in nursing. Professionals from a variety of backgrounds who can offer different points of view and cultural awareness to patient care are desperately needed in the healthcare industry. My goal in continuing my education is to become a healthcare provider of the highest possible standard, but I also want to become an advocate and a spokesperson for initiatives that advance equity and inclusivity in the healthcare system. My own experiences have made me aware of the inequities in healthcare, and I'm determined to be an advocate for change by making sure that everyone, regardless of background, has access to professional and compassionate care. In conclusion, my grandmother instilled in me the values of love, faith in God, and community service, all of which have had a significant influence on my journey. Her legacy and being an embodiment of hope in our neighborhood motivates me to keep trying to change the world for the better. I am committed to expanding diversity in the healthcare industry and preserving the principles of love, faith, and service in everything I do, which is why I am pursuing a master's degree in nursing. My goal is to continue the legacy of inclusivity and compassion by making sure that the treatment I give is a true reflection of the faith and affection that have supported me all of my life.

Embarking on a journey marked by "B.A.B.Y. L.O.V.E."—an acronym embodying Benevolence, Altruism, Bravery, Yielding, Leadership, Optimism, Vitality, and Empathy—has been my guiding light throughout my life. These principles reflect not only my aspirations but also the core values instilled in me by my family and community. My passion for learning and dedication to serving others are integral parts of my identity, fueling my ambition to earn a master’s degree in nursing and devote my life to helping those in need. Since my early years, school has served as a sanctuary for me, nurturing my desire to learn and enthusiasm for learning. I've always thought that the secret to realizing potential and bringing about constructive change is knowledge. My passion to apply my knowledge for the good of others and my intense quest for knowledge have motivated my academic career. This passion for learning is based on more than simply personal development; it's also about giving me the skills I need to have a significant impact on the world. My core values are altruism and benevolence. I learned the value of kindness and selflessness as a child. My grandmother, who served as a pillar of our community and a constant source of help for people in need, was a prime example of these ideals. Her generosity and commitment to helping others have motivated me to pursue a career in similar fields. A career in nursing is a natural continuation of this desire to assist others, offering support and empathy to those who are most in need. Yielding and bravery stand for my dedication to taking on obstacles head-on while being flexible and kind-hearted. Being a nurse is a difficult career path that calls for both mental strength and academic excellence. I'm ready to face these obstacles head-on with bravery and tenacity because I know that every step I take will get me closer to my final goal of improving the lives of others. I make it an effort to live my life with optimism and leadership as core values. I think it's important to set an example for others, motivate them by what I do, and keep a positive mindset in the face of difficulty. As a future nurse, I want to create an atmosphere of trust and positivity that encourages recovery and wellbeing for my patients by being a source of strength and hope for them. My enthusiasm for nursing is driven by my vitality and empathy. Energy, passion, and a deep understanding for others' emotions are essential in the healthcare industry. My active personality and compassionate attitude allow me to establish strong connections with individuals, offering not only medical attention but also emotional assistance and empathy. To sum up my claims made above, I am dedicated to preserving the "B.A.B.Y. L.O.V.E." attitude as a way of life, not just an idea. My passion for learning and constant search for knowledge stem from my desire to help people and leave an impression that lasts. I am committed to leading a life of benevolence, altruism, bravery, yielding, leadership, optimism, vitality, and empathy by completing my master's degree in nursing. I want to make sure that my journey is one of love and service to humanity.

With a heart rooted in love, faith in God, and a commitment to community service, I am determined to make a positive impact on the world. I was raised in a home that valued love, faith, and service under the loving supervision of my grandmother, who also functioned as the mother of my family's Baptist church. The foundation of my values was set by my grandmother's strong commitment to her faith and to assisting others. She taught me that genuine relationships and communities are constructed on the basis of love. Her impact has motivated me to help others and approach each aspect of my life with compassion, especially in the field of healthcare. My upbringing was based mostly on my faith, which has guided me throughout my life. I have a strong sense of purpose and a strong belief in the ability of faith to bring about change because of the teachings of the Bible. My faith has given me tenacity and strength, enabling me to overcome obstacles in life and strengthening my will to assist those in need. My motivation to seek a profession in nursing stems from my faith, which allows me to meaningfully serve others by tending to the needs of the weak and in need. I was encouraged by my grandma to make community service a major part of my life. She was a pillar of our community and a spiritual leader who was always willing to help anyone in need. I have taken part in a lot of community service initiatives, like volunteering at nursing homes and helping at nearby hospitals, in her footsteps. My appreciation for the value of giving back has grown as a result of these encounters, and they have also strengthened my resolve to carry on providing increasingly significant services to my community. My motivation to increase diversity in the healthcare industry is what drives me as I get ready to pursue my master's degree in nursing. Professionals from a variety of backgrounds who can offer different points of view and cultural awareness to patient care are desperately needed in the healthcare industry. My goal in continuing my education is to become a healthcare provider of the highest possible standard, but I also want to become an advocate and a spokesperson for initiatives that advance equity and inclusivity in the healthcare system. My own experiences have made me aware of the inequities in healthcare, and I'm determined to be an advocate for change by making sure that everyone, regardless of background, has access to professional and compassionate care. In conclusion, my grandmother instilled in me the values of love, faith in God, and community service, all of which have had a significant influence on my journey. Her legacy and being an embodiment of hope in our neighborhood motivates me to keep trying to change the world for the better. I am committed to expanding diversity in the healthcare industry and preserving the principles of love, faith, and service in everything I do, which is why I am pursuing a master's degree in nursing. My goal is to continue the legacy of inclusivity and compassion by making sure that the treatment I give is a true reflection of the faith and affection that have supported me all of my life.

The nursing industry captivated me as a career choice because it embodies the perfect blend of compassionate care, scientific expertise, and the impact of making a difference in people's lives. I was raised caring for my grandparents, whose health deteriorated dramatically as they aged. My perception of the value of compassionate healthcare was impacted by my experience giving them daily support, comfort, and medical attention. Even though they are no longer with me, I chose to become a nurse because I want to pay tribute to them and the lessons they taught me. Their courage and thankfulness motivated me to commit my life to assisting those going through similar experiences and making sure that each patient gets the kind treatment and respect they deserve. The goal of my studies is to establish a solid academic basis for my future profession by attending college in the fall to pursue a nursing degree. The recognized nursing program at this university provides the thorough instruction and practical training I need to succeed in the medical industry. My goal is to advance my education by earning a Master's degree in nursing with a focus on nurse practitioner after completing my undergraduate studies. In the end, I want to work as a travel nurse practitioner, offering vital care and knowledge to various people around the nation. My professional path not only allows me to honor my dedication to enhancing healthcare access and quality for all communities, but it also satisfies my enthusiasm for helping others. During my high school years, I enrolled in a two-year nursing program at Erie 1 BOCES Harkness Career and Technical Center, a decision that proved to be transformative. This program provided me with the opportunity to earn my Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification by the time I graduated. The curriculum was comprehensive, covering both theoretical and practical aspects of nursing, and it equipped me with essential skills and knowledge that formed a strong foundation for my future in healthcare. The hands-on experiences, combined with the in-depth coursework, allowed me to gain a thorough understanding of the nursing field and solidified my commitment to pursuing this career path. For me, nursing is a calling and a lifelong interest that is strongly aligned with my basic values of empathy, compassion, and a commitment to assisting others. I'm dedicated to improving the quality of life for my patients, developing professionally, and fighting for universal access to better healthcare. My passion is nursing, and I can't wait to devote my entire life to this honorable and fulfilling profession since I know that every day presents the chance to significantly impact someone's life.

The nursing industry captivated me as a career choice because it embodies the perfect blend of compassionate care, scientific expertise, and the impact of making a difference in people's lives. I was raised caring for my grandparents, whose health deteriorated dramatically as they aged. My perception of the value of compassionate healthcare was impacted by my experience giving them daily support, comfort, and medical attention. Even though they are no longer with me, I chose to become a nurse because I want to pay tribute to them and the lessons they taught me. Their courage and thankfulness motivated me to commit my life to assisting those going through similar experiences and making sure that each patient gets the kind treatment and respect they deserve. The goal of my studies is to establish a solid academic basis for my future profession by attending SUNY Brockport in the fall to pursue a nursing degree. The recognized nursing program at this university provides the thorough instruction and practical training I need to succeed in the medical industry. My goal is to advance my education by earning a Master's degree in nursing with a focus on nurse practitioner after completing my undergraduate studies. In the end, I want to work as a travel nurse practitioner, offering vital care and knowledge to various people around the nation. My professional path not only allows me to honor my dedication to enhancing healthcare access and quality for all communities, but it also satisfies my enthusiasm for helping others. During my high school years, I enrolled in a two-year nursing program at Erie 1 BOCES Harkness Career and Technical Center, a decision that proved to be transformative. This program provided me with the opportunity to earn my Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification by the time I graduated. The curriculum was comprehensive, covering both theoretical and practical aspects of nursing, and it equipped me with essential skills and knowledge that formed a strong foundation for my future in healthcare. The hands-on experiences, combined with the in-depth coursework, allowed me to gain a thorough understanding of the nursing field and solidified my commitment to pursuing this career path. Throughout the program, I participated in clinical rotations that took me to various healthcare settings, including nursing homes, hospitals, and gross anatomy labs. These clinical experiences were invaluable, offering me firsthand exposure to patient care and the day-to-day responsibilities of healthcare professionals. In nursing homes, I learned the importance of empathy and patience while caring for elderly residents. My time in hospitals provided me with a dynamic environment to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills under the supervision of experienced nurses. Additionally, working in gross anatomy labs gave me a deeper appreciation for the complexities of the human body and the importance of precise medical knowledge. Finishing the program with high honors was a testament to my hard work and dedication, and it helped me to definitively determine my career path in nursing. The program not only affirmed my passion for nursing but also prepared me for the next steps in my educational journey, leading me to aim for higher goals. For me, nursing is a calling and a lifelong interest that is strongly aligned with my basic values of empathy, compassion, and a commitment to assisting others. I'm dedicated to improving the quality of life for my patients, developing professionally, and fighting for universal access to better healthcare. My passion is nursing, and I can't wait to devote my entire life to this honorable and fulfilling profession since I know that every day presents the chance to significantly impact someone's life.

A leader: the one in charge, the person who convinces other people to follow. Leadership: the ability of an individual, group, or organization to lead, influence, or guide other individuals, teams, or entire organizations. What I am, is a LEADER. A person must be proud of their work in order to be a good leader. Having said that, I genuinely take satisfaction in the work I perform for people everywhere, not just in my community. I feel that my purpose in life is to serve those in need, so I strive extremely hard to assist everyone in my life. I was meant to take care of other people. However, in order to care for others, one must first take care of oneself and adopt the belief that they are capable of caring for others. And that's exactly what I do. I have almost ten years of cheering experience, and I have no regrets about those years. I've learned how to improve my perspective and self-worth through cheerleading. Above all, cheering has helped me learn how to lead and mentor those around me. From my cheerleading experience, I learned how to work with people and encourage individuals who need a little more push. Having said that, I have stepped up my leadership role with the girls over the last five years, since they have grown to be like my sisters throughout my time on Depew's Varsity Cheer. I genuinely like leading my team and supporting the other girls. It was my beloved grandparents, L.C. and Ola Mae Spencer, who raised me to become a leader. I was taught to never be a follower and to always maintain my ground by my wise and firm Southern grandfather. With his word, I really do live up to that. My grandmother, a beautiful southern belle, instilled in me the value of never allowing anything or anybody to deplete me to the point that I lose my ability to lead. I still abide by her advice, which was to "Concentrate on Amanda and worry about everybody else later." My grandparents helped mold me into the confident, determined person I am today. I have dedicated the last two years of my life to attending nursing school in honor of my grandparents, not realizing that I would soon have a head start with my career. I was pleased to receive an early start offer to become a nursing assistant after I complete my high school studies in a health occupations program at Erie 1 Boces Technical Center in September 2022. I have worked with and learned how to care for elderly and in-need people in this program in addition to learning the fundamentals of nursing, and I really adore it. Through my clinicals, I have developed relationships with the patients I look after, and I truly love caring for them. All things considered, performing community service has allowed me to develop and improve essential skills that are utilized in the workplace, such as organization, communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and project planning. I've met individuals through community service who have significantly changed my life, and I don't regret doing the work I do at all.

"Keep going, Amanda, don't let this be an excuse," I've been hearing since the beginning of my life. My life has been greatly impacted by having a single mother while I was growing up. She taught me the importance of resiliency, tenacity, and unconditional love. My mother's journey has served as a source of inspiration for me, helping me to navigate life's challenges and demonstrating the resilience of the human spirit. The obstacles she overcame and the victories she attained in spite of overwhelming challenges serve as markers for her brave and resilient story. The black cloud of my father's alcoholism affected our early family life. His addiction resulted in aggressive behavior, which bred instability and fear in my surroundings. But despite everything, my mother continued to be a rock of support. She put up with his mistreatment until the effects on her and her kids became too much for her to handle. Although divorcing him was not an easy decision, it was essential for our security and welfare. Following their divorce, my mother was left to raise four children by herself. Despite the challenges of the responsibility, she approached it with determination. In order to put food on the table, clothes on, and a roof over our heads, she often sacrificed her own wants while working two jobs to make ends meet. Her days began before dawn and ended late at night, leaving her exhausted. Still, she never complained or gave up. Instead, her love for us and her desire to create a better future drove her to greet each day with determination. My mother worked hard to provide love and warmth to our home despite the financial and emotional strains. She encouraged us to follow our aspirations, helped us with our studies, and showed great pride in our lives. She consistently reassured us that we could accomplish everything we set our minds to, and her encouragement was unchanging. Her confidence in us served as an excellent reason for us to put in extra effort and pursue success. My perspective on life has been greatly impacted by my mother's toughness and desire. I learned the virtues of endurance and hard work by watching my mother manage a lot of responsibilities with grace. She proved that with courage and a positive outlook, nothing is impossible. I have an in-depth appreciation for the value of family, education, and independence because of her sacrifices and efforts. Growing up, my mother had a strong desire to become a nurse and had experience as a nursing assistant. She had to give up her job to care for my siblings and me because no one else was home to watch us. She inspired me to become a successful nurse, and I plan to carry on her legacy when I enroll in nursing school in the the fall. She gave me the motivation to succeed since she believes in me, therefore now I have to fulfill her goals. Ultimately, without my mother, I couldn't accomplish what I do. As I think back on my childhood, I am filled with gratitude and respect for my mother. She used hardship as a chance to impart priceless life lessons to us. Her bravery and ambition have motivated me to work hard toward my objectives in spite of obstacles. I promise to work hard, maintain my focus, and give back to the community in order to respect her sacrifices. I will be guided throughout my life by my mother's love, resiliency, and determination, which serves as a constant reminder of the amazing strength that comes from having a strong will.

On April 4, 2024, a chilly and wet evening, my life underwent a permanent transformation. My brother was a victim of his protracted struggle with alcoholism, and I discovered him lifeless in his apartment. I will always remember that moment's shock and pain, since it left an enduring impression on me. My brother was no longer with me; he had been my family, my best friend, and my confidant. I made a life-changing decision in the middle of my grief: I would become a nurse with a focus on behavioral health and addictions. I would speak up for alcoholics in his honor, giving those who suffer in silence a voice. Growing up, my brother was the person I looked up to the most. He was kind-hearted, intelligent, and full of life. But behind his warm smile, he hid a painful struggle with alcohol. I watched as he tried repeatedly to overcome his addiction, each relapse taking a heavier toll on his body and spirit. Despite his battles, he always encouraged me to pursue my dreams and never give up, even when things seemed impossible. When I found him that fateful day, the reality of his struggle and its tragic end hit me with full force. I was consumed by a profound sense of loss and helplessness. But amidst the sorrow, a spark of determination ignited within me. I knew I needed to turn this tragedy into something meaningful, something that could help others avoid the same fate. My brother's death propelled me towards nursing, a profession that embodies compassion, care, and dedication to others. I chose to minor in addictions and behavioral health because I wanted to understand the complexities of addiction and the best ways to support those who suffer from it. I wanted to be equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to make a real difference in the lives of individuals and families affected by addiction. In my brother's honor, I have vowed to be an advocate for alcoholics. I have seen firsthand the stigma and misunderstanding that surround addiction. Many people view alcoholism as a moral failing rather than a disease, and this perception often prevents those in need from seeking help. I want to change this narrative. By becoming a nurse with a focus on addictions and behavioral health, I aim to provide compassionate care and support to those battling addiction. I want to educate others about the realities of alcoholism and advocate for better resources and treatment options. My brother's struggle and untimely death have given me a unique perspective on addiction. I understand the pain, the fear, and the desperate hope for recovery that both addicts and their loved ones experience. This empathy drives my passion for nursing and advocacy. I want to be a beacon of hope for those who feel lost in their addiction, to let them know that they are not alone and that recovery is possible. As I pursue my nursing degree, I carry my brother's memory with me. His life, though marked by struggle, is also a testament to resilience and love. He has inspired me to dedicate my life to helping others, to be a source of strength and support for those who need it most. In his honor, I will work tirelessly to advocate for alcoholics, providing care and compassion to those who are often misunderstood and overlooked. Through this journey, I hope to honor his memory and make a difference in the lives of others, advocating for alcoholics and working towards a future where they receive the care and support they deserve.

The disparities that Black individuals face in healthcare are often overlooked. Many black people are frequently tasked with performing "dirty work" for various fields of medicine. I intend to make up for that disparity, and I have ambitious plans for doing so. My main educational objective is to raise the proportion of Black individuals working in healthcare, and I have several projects in place to achieve this. It is disgusting that black people cannot access inexpensive, high-quality education, and I want to assist the individuals who so badly want to attend school but are unable to do so. To begin with, it is incredibly disheartening to see the poverty and discrimination that Black people face. But you could wonder, from where does this poverty originate? It stems from black single moms whose fathers are in prison, from being trapped in the poverty system, from gang and criminal rates, from every aspect, honestly. The important thing to remember is that efficient education and reasonably priced living expenses are essential to breaking the cycle of poverty among my people. As a young woman attempting to end this pattern, I understand that it will take time to complete this process. It takes much preparation, study, and a focused mind. I am here to fulfill that purpose and serve the world for this particular reason. I have studied nursing for the past two years at Erie 1 Boces Harkness Career and Technical Center in order to kickstart my academic career. I've been able to work with patients in a variety of settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, and medical labs, because of this curriculum. I have gained knowledge on useful topics including planning, problem-solving, and nursing studies. In order to have a deeper knowledge of how some people live, I have also dedicated a significant amount of time to performing community service in my neighborhood. Despite all that I have accomplished in my high school career, this is just the beginning and does not necessarily indicate what I will pursue for further schooling. Starting off with my goals, I want to major in nursing and minor in behavioral studies and addictions at SUNY Brockport. Since nursing care solely focuses on a patient's physical recovery, I feel that my studies should be focused on other areas. That's why I'm researching addictions and behavioral health: I need to determine whether the health issue stems from drug abuse or psychological trauma. Along with managing my department, I want to live a life dedicated to helping and supporting others. My goal is to improve patient care and hospital standards by giving nursing staff access to the latest advances in technology. In summary, I sincerely hope to improve the world by removing the generational curses placed on Black people and by giving effective care to individuals. I feel that my mission on our planet is to care for everyone and to assist Black people in breaking the cycle of poverty, even though I know it will be a difficult undertaking to do. By getting the knowledge I need, this will not only help me reach my own objectives, but it will also help other people achieve their goals and assist others.

The disparities that Black individuals face in healthcare are often overlooked. Many black people are frequently tasked with performing "dirty work" for various fields of medicine. I intend to make up for that disparity, and I have ambitious plans for doing so. My main educational objective is to raise the proportion of Black individuals working in healthcare, and I have several projects in place to achieve this. It is disgusting that black people cannot access inexpensive, high-quality education, and I want to assist the individuals who so badly want to attend school but are unable to do so. To begin with, it is incredibly disheartening to see the poverty and discrimination that Black people face. But you could wonder, from where does this poverty originate? It stems from black single moms whose fathers are in prison, from being trapped in the poverty system, from gang and criminal rates, from every aspect, honestly. The important thing to remember is that efficient education and reasonably priced living expenses are essential to breaking the cycle of poverty among my people. As a young woman attempting to end this pattern, I understand that it will take time to complete this process. It takes much preparation, study, and a focused mind. I am here to fulfill that purpose and serve the world for this particular reason. I have studied nursing for the past two years at Erie 1 Boces Harkness Career and Technical Center in order to kickstart my academic career. I've been able to work with patients in a variety of settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, and medical labs, because of this curriculum. I have gained knowledge on useful topics including planning, problem-solving, and nursing studies. In order to have a deeper knowledge of how some people live, I have also dedicated a significant amount of time to performing community service in my neighborhood. Despite all that I have accomplished in my high school career, this is just the beginning and does not necessarily indicate what I will pursue for further schooling. Starting off with my goals, I want to major in nursing and minor in behavioral studies and addictions at SUNY Brockport. Since nursing care solely focuses on a patient's physical recovery, I feel that my studies should be focused on other areas. That's why I'm researching addictions and behavioral health: I need to determine whether the health issue stems from drug abuse or psychological trauma. Along with managing my department, I want to live a life dedicated to helping and supporting others. My goal is to improve patient care and hospital standards by giving nursing staff access to the latest advances in technology. In summary, I sincerely hope to improve the world by removing the generational curses placed on Black people and by giving effective care to individuals. I feel that my mission on our planet is to care for everyone and to assist Black people in breaking the cycle of poverty, even though I know it will be a difficult undertaking to do. By getting the knowledge I need, this will not only help me reach my own objectives, but it will also help other people achieve their goals and assist others.

Resilience was a quality I never possessed as a child. Often, I felt like a ship tossed without an anchor amid the turbulent seas of life. I felt defeated by losses and obstacles that seemed overwhelming. But I never realized I had a store of resilience inside of me until my clinical experience at the Brothers of Mercy long term care facility. I now try to share this newfound strength with the senior citizens I look after in the hopes of motivating them to keep going forward in the face of adversity. Upon entering the assisted living facility, I was welcomed by an ocean of elderly faces, each bearing witness to the endless tales and life experiences they had shared. Many of the inhabitants struggled with feelings of hopelessness, loneliness, and despair despite their years of experience. That's when I understood how important it was for me to be resilient—not just for them, but also for myself. I wanted to serve as a ray of optimism, a constant reminder that morning will always break through the darkness. During my stay at the nursing home, I experienced a very touching interaction with Mr. Thompson, a former schoolteacher who had recently lost his wife. He was a man who had devoted his life to teaching others, but he was now having trouble defining his mission. I made it my goal to get to know him and to demonstrate to him that happiness and purpose could still be found in the later stages of life. His favorite topic was literature, so we talked about it for hours on end. I urged him to impart the knowledge he had to the other residents. I noticed a glimmer of life slowly returning to his eyes. I pulled on my own feelings of being aimless and adrift at those times. I knew what it was like to be faced with hardship without the means to go through it. However, I developed resilience inside myself and was able to have the courage to help others. This experience has shown me that resilience is more than just overcoming adversity; it's about coming out stronger and more determined than before. Another resident, Ms. Messi, struggled with mobility issues that left her feeling isolated. She often expressed frustration and sadness, believing she had become a burden to those around her. I made it a point to visit her regularly, engaging her in activities she could enjoy, such as painting and listening to music. By showing her that she still had the capacity to enjoy life and connect with others, I helped her build her own resilience. Her laughter became more frequent, and her outlook on life shifted from one of despair to one of hope. Through these experiences, I learned that resilience is a gift we can give to others, especially when they feel they have none left. My own journey from a place of vulnerability to one of strength and determination has been a guiding light in my interactions with the residents. I want to instill in them the belief that they can face their challenges head-on and emerge victorious. In the end, my clinical experience at the nursing home was not just about providing care; it was about fostering resilience and inspiring hope. I never had resilience growing up, but by cultivating it within myself and sharing it with others, I discovered a profound sense of purpose. To the elderly residents I care for, I hope to be a reminder that no matter the difficulties they face, they too can rise, stronger and more resilient than ever before.

I have struggled with the complexities of mental health throughout my life, frequently feeling helpless and alone. In the end, these hardships have led me to a fulfilling passion for nursing by strengthening my relationship with God and molding my character. I have developed stronger, more compassionate, and a deeper connection to my purpose and faith as a result of this journey. I had anxiety and depression from a young age. I would often feel hopeless after these struggles because they seemed like immeasurable obstacles. I still clearly recall the days that felt like never-ending wars against invisible enemies and the nights that were filled with restless thoughts. I turned to prayer during one of these especially difficult times, looking to my relationship with God for comfort and understanding. At first, my prayers were cries for help, desperate pleas for relief from the mental turmoil. Slowly, however, these moments of vulnerability became opportunities for profound connection. In my quiet moments of prayer and reflection, I began to sense a comforting presence, a feeling that I was not alone in my struggles. This was the beginning of a transformative journey. My relationship with God became a cornerstone of my healing process. Through scripture and prayer, I found strength and resilience. Verses like Philippians 4:6-7, which encourages believers to present their anxieties to God, brought me immense comfort. I realized that surrendering my worries to a higher power provided a sense of peace that surpassed my understanding. This spiritual growth allowed me to view my mental health struggles not as a burden but as a path to greater empathy and strength. As my faith deepened, I felt a growing desire to serve others. It was during this time that I discovered my passion for nursing. The idea of providing care and comfort to those in need resonated deeply with my newfound sense of purpose. Nursing, I realized, was more than a profession; it was a calling that aligned perfectly with my spiritual journey. The connection between my faith and my chosen career became evident as I navigated through nursing school. Each challenge I faced, whether it was a difficult exam or a demanding clinical rotation, was met with prayer and reflection. I began to see my patients not just as individuals needing medical care but as people deserving of compassion and understanding. My experiences with mental health struggles allowed me to connect with patients on a deeper level, offering them empathy and support rooted in my own journey of healing. Through nursing, I have been able to live out my faith in practical ways. Every interaction with a patient is an opportunity to reflect God's love and grace. Whether it is holding a patient's hand during a difficult procedure or offering words of encouragement to a family member, I strive to be a source of comfort and hope. My personal battles have given me a unique perspective, enabling me to approach each situation with patience and kindness. Moreover, my struggles with mental health have taught me the importance of self-care and seeking help when needed. This lesson has been invaluable in my nursing career, where burnout and compassion fatigue are common challenges. By prioritizing my mental health and leaning on my faith, I am better equipped to care for others. My journey has reinforced the idea that we must first care for ourselves in order to care for others effectively. Looking back, I can see how my battles with mental health have greatly accelerated my spiritual and personal development. They have improved my connection with God, grown my faith, and molded my personality. I have also come to love nursing as a profession as a result of this journey, as it allows me to use my faith and experiences to provide meaningful care. I am stronger and more caring than I was a year ago, propelled by my desire to improve the lives of people and my faith. My battles with mental health, which used to hurt me, have now given me empathy and resiliency. By God's help, I have been able to use these obstacles to my advantage in both my personal and professional life as a nurse.

My goals as I set out to become a nurse are centered around promoting diversity in the healthcare industry in addition to offering top-notch care. I was raised as a first-generation low-income student who was only given my mother's financial support, so I have personal experience with the differences in healthcare access. My desire to help create a healthcare system that is inclusive and representative of the diverse communities it serves has been ignited by this reality. My deep-seated desire to help people and my profound understanding of the significance of representation in healthcare are what have motivated me to pursue a career in nursing. Being a part of an underrepresented community myself, I have an in-depth awareness of the particular difficulties and obstacles that people from comparable backgrounds encounter. In addition to providing kind and culturally sensitive care, my goal in pursuing a nursing career is to inspire and uplift those who might recognize themselves in me. Increasing diversity in the healthcare industry is important for both efficacy and equity. Empirical studies have consistently demonstrated that having a diverse workforce in healthcare improves patient satisfaction, patient outcomes, and access to care for underserved populations. Nursing professionals can better understand and care for the complex needs of patients from a variety of backgrounds when they bring a wide range of perspectives, experiences, and cultural competences to the table. The Schmid Memorial Scholarship is extremely significant to me as I work to fulfill my academic aspirations. The cost of attending college can frequently seem overwhelming to a first-generation low-income student. But aside from relieving my financial burden, the scholarship also acts as a sign of encouragement and affirmation for my goals. I will be able to fully concentrate on my coursework and clinical experiences with the support of this scholarship, free from the burden of financial concerns. Moreover, the Schmid Memorial Scholarship symbolizes a community of encouragement and support rather than merely financial aid. In addition to getting financial support as the recipient of this scholarship, I'm also joining a group of people who think that education has the ability to change people's lives and communities. I have no doubt that this feeling of support and belonging will increase my self-assurance and fortitude as I face the difficulties of nursing school and beyond. In conclusion, my desire to serve others and my dedication to social justice are what motivate me to pursue my goal of becoming a nurse and expanding diversity in the healthcare industry. I am sure that the Schmid Memorial Scholarship will help me fulfill my academic aspirations and have a significant positive influence on the lives of patients and communities. By working together, we can clear the way for a universally accessible and equitable healthcare system.

As a first-generation college student raised by a single mother, the pursuit of higher education has always been a dream veiled by financial constraints. However, the North Star Dreamers Memorial Scholarship emerges as a guiding light, illuminating the path towards realizing my aspirations of obtaining a nursing degree—a journey deeply intertwined with honoring my late grandmother's legacy. Growing up in a single-parent household, my mother has been my beacon of resilience and strength, navigating through life's challenges with unwavering determination. Despite the adversities we faced, she instilled within me the belief that education is the key to transcending limitations and unlocking a brighter future. Her sacrifices and unwavering support have fueled my determination to pursue higher education, not only for myself but also to honor her unwavering commitment to my success. The North Star Dreamers Memorial Scholarship serves as a beacon of hope, offering the financial assistance crucial for alleviating the burden of college expenses. With this scholarship, the daunting prospect of accumulating student debt diminishes, allowing me to focus wholeheartedly on my academic pursuits and extracurricular endeavors. Moreover, it provides the opportunity to pursue my passion for nursing without the looming shadow of financial uncertainty, empowering me to fully immerse myself in my studies and clinical experiences. My aspiration to pursue a career in nursing is deeply rooted in the cherished memories and wisdom imparted by my late grandmother. From a young age, she encouraged me to embrace compassion and empathy, instilling within me the belief that serving others is the highest calling. Her words of guidance resonate within me, serving as a constant reminder of the profound impact nurses have in nurturing and healing individuals during their most vulnerable moments. In honor of my grandmother's legacy, I am steadfast in my resolve to pursue a nursing degree, aspiring to embody the same compassion and dedication that defined her life. The North Star Dreamers Memorial Scholarship not only eases the financial burden of college but also symbolizes a tribute to my grandmother's memory—a testament to her enduring influence on my journey towards becoming a nurse. With the support of the North Star Dreamers Memorial Scholarship, I am poised to embark on a transformative educational journey, one that transcends mere academic achievement. It represents an opportunity to honor my mother's sacrifices, fulfill my grandmother's wishes, and pave the way for future generations of dreamers like myself. As I navigate through the challenges and triumphs that lie ahead, I am grateful for the guiding light provided by this scholarship, which illuminates the path towards realizing my dreams and making a meaningful difference in the world.

From the tender age of childhood, I was enveloped in the warm embrace of my grandmother's love and compassion. Raised by her nurturing hands, I imbibed the essence of empathy, learning firsthand the profound impact of extending a helping hand to others. Her legacy became the cornerstone of my ethos, shaping my path towards community service and nursing. Volunteering at nursing homes has been my sanctuary, a sacred space where I translate the lessons taught by my grandmother into meaningful actions. Each interaction with elderly patients echoes the echoes of her gentle wisdom, reinforcing the significance of human connection and kindness. In those moments, I offer more than just physical assistance; I offer companionship, a listening ear, and unwavering support, striving to alleviate their loneliness and brighten their days. As I tenderly care for the elderly, I am reminded of the countless ways my grandmother touched lives with her boundless love. Her legacy serves as a beacon, guiding me to channel my compassion into a lifelong commitment to serving others. It is through her nurturing influence that I discovered my calling to pursue nursing—a profession that embodies the essence of care and compassion. In my journey to becoming a nurse, I envision extending my support beyond the confines of nursing homes, reaching out to diverse communities and individuals in need. Whether it's comforting a distressed patient, advocating for their rights, or lending a helping hand in times of adversity, I aspire to embody the spirit of compassion that defined my grandmother's legacy. Beyond the confines of professional duties, I strive to foster a culture of empathy and solidarity within my community, inspiring others to join hands in uplifting those in need. By organizing community service initiatives and volunteering opportunities, I aim to cultivate a sense of collective responsibility towards building a more compassionate society—one where every individual feels valued and supported. In essence, my journey of supporting others through community service and nursing is deeply rooted in the love and compassion instilled in me by my grandmother. Her legacy continues to fuel my passion for making a difference in the lives of others, propelling me forward on a path illuminated by empathy, kindness, and unwavering dedication to serving humanity. As I embark on this noble journey, I carry her spirit within me, a guiding light that illuminates the way towards a brighter, more compassionate future.

Cheerleading isn't just about waving pom-poms and chanting slogans; it's a journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and resilience. For me, cheerleading has been more than just a sport; it's been a lifeline, shaping me into the person I am today and enabling me to make a positive impact on others. Growing up in a toxic household, where negativity and strife were constant companions, cheerleading became my escape, my sanctuary from the chaos. Stepping onto the mat or field meant leaving behind the burdens of home and immersing myself in a world where teamwork, dedication, and positivity reigned supreme. In those moments, surrounded by supportive teammates and coaches, I found solace and strength, transforming adversity into opportunity. Cheerleading taught me invaluable life lessons that extended far beyond the sidelines. It instilled in me the importance of perseverance and discipline. Whether it was perfecting a routine or mastering a difficult stunt, cheerleading demanded unwavering dedication and effort. Through countless hours of practice and determination, I learned that success is not merely the result of talent, but the culmination of hard work and resilience. Moreover, cheerleading fostered a sense of camaraderie and teamwork that transcended the boundaries of the mat. As part of a squad, I discovered the power of collaboration and unity in achieving common goals. Every lift, toss, and cheer required trust and cooperation, teaching me the value of mutual support and encouragement. These bonds forged on the sidelines translated into lifelong friendships and a supportive network that continues to uplift me in times of need. Beyond personal growth, cheerleading has empowered me to make a positive impact on others. As a cheerleader, I've had the privilege of inspiring and motivating those around me, both on and off the field. Whether I'm leading cheers from the stands or volunteering in the community, I've witnessed firsthand the transformative power of spreading joy and positivity. Through acts of kindness and service, I've been able to brighten someone's day and make a meaningful difference in their lives. Cheerleading has shaped me into a better person, equipping me with the resilience, empathy, and determination needed to navigate life's challenges. It has taught me to embrace adversity as an opportunity for growth and to approach every obstacle with courage and optimism. Moreover, it has empowered me to be a beacon of light in the lives of others, spreading positivity and kindness wherever I go. In conclusion, cheerleading has been more than just a sport to me; it has been a transformative journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Through the highs and lows, cheers and tears, it has molded me into the person I am today and equipped me with the tools to make a positive impact on the world around me. As I continue to cheer on others and embrace life's challenges with resilience and grace, I am forever grateful for the profound influence cheerleading has had on my life.

As a nursing student, my vision extends far beyond the confines of hospital walls. I see my degree as a powerful tool to address the systemic challenges and disparities that disproportionately affect BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) women. Empowerment and well-being are not just buzzwords to me; they are fundamental rights that have been denied to far too many for far too long. Through my education and future career as a nurse, I am committed to actively engaging with communities, advocating for change, and contributing to the ongoing fight for social justice and equity. At the heart of my vision lies a deep understanding of the intersecting factors that impact the health and well-being of BIPOC women. Historical and ongoing injustices, including racism, sexism, and socioeconomic inequality, create barriers to accessing quality healthcare and achieving optimal health outcomes. These systemic challenges manifest in disparities such as higher rates of maternal mortality, chronic illnesses, and mental health issues among BIPOC women. As a nurse, I recognize the urgent need to address these disparities at their roots and work towards creating a more just and equitable healthcare system. One way I plan to leverage my nursing degree is by actively engaging with BIPOC communities. This means listening to their voices, understanding their needs, and co-creating solutions that empower them to take control of their health. Community-based initiatives, such as health education workshops, support groups, and outreach programs, can provide valuable resources and promote health literacy among BIPOC women. By fostering trust and building meaningful relationships with community members, I aim to dismantle the barriers that prevent them from seeking and receiving the care they deserve. Advocacy is another crucial component of my vision. As a nurse, I have a unique platform and responsibility to amplify the voices of BIPOC women and advocate for policies and practices that promote health equity. This includes advocating for culturally competent care, increasing diversity in the healthcare workforce, and addressing social determinants of health such as housing insecurity, food insecurity, and environmental justice. Through grassroots organizing, coalition building, and legislative advocacy, I intend to be a fierce advocate for change both within the healthcare system and beyond. Furthermore, I believe in the power of education and mentorship to inspire the next generation of BIPOC nurses and leaders. By sharing my own experiences and expertise, I hope to empower aspiring nurses to navigate and challenge the systemic barriers they may encounter. Mentorship programs, scholarships, and pipeline initiatives can help address the underrepresentation of BIPOC individuals in nursing and create a more diverse and inclusive healthcare workforce. In conclusion, my vision as a nursing student extends far beyond clinical practice. I see my degree as a catalyst for social change and a means to improve the empowerment and well-being of BIPOC women. Through active engagement with communities, advocacy for policy change, and mentorship of future leaders, I am committed to contributing to the ongoing fight for social justice and equity in healthcare. As a nurse, I stand ready to be a voice for those whose voices have been silenced for too long.

Starting a new school is daunting for anyone, but for me, it was an excruciating ordeal magnified by layers of isolation and discrimination. As the only black girl in a predominantly white institution, the weight of being different settled heavily on my shoulders. Walking through those halls, I felt like an outsider, each step echoing with the palpable silence of my own apprehension. The specter of racism loomed large, casting a shadow over every interaction. Faces turned away when I tried to speak, and words choked in my throat as I battled against the suffocating grip of social anxiety. The hostility in the whispers and the sneers only reinforced my sense of alienation, pushing me further into silence. Each day became a silent struggle, a relentless battle between the desire to belong and the fear of rejection. However, amidst the darkness, a flicker of determination ignited within me. I refused to be defined by the prejudice surrounding me. Despite the deafening silence that enveloped my existence, I clung fiercely to the belief that my voice mattered. It was this tenacity that propelled me forward, guiding me through the labyrinth of doubt and despair. And when the opportunity to pursue higher education presented itself, I seized it with unwavering resolve. College became more than just a dream; it became my beacon of hope, a promise of liberation from the shackles of doubt and discrimination. With each application submitted and each acceptance letter received, I defied the insidious whispers of failure that had once haunted me. The prospect of college was not merely about academic achievement; it was a testament to my resilience in the face of adversity, a triumph over the systemic barriers that sought to silence my aspirations. As I embark on this new chapter of my life, I carry with me the scars of my past, a reminder of the battles I fought and the victories I claimed. The echoes of my silence may linger, but they no longer dictate my narrative. In the hallowed halls of academia, I am more than just a statistic or a stereotype; I am a force to be reckoned with, a testament to the enduring power of perseverance and self-belief. And as I stand on the threshold of possibility, I am filled with a sense of purpose and determination, ready to carve out my place in a world that once sought to erase me.

The healthcare inequities faced by Black individuals often linger unnoticed, their plight exacerbated by being relegated to roles often deemed as "menial" within various medical domains. I am resolute in my commitment to addressing this disparity, armed with ambitious plans to effectuate change. My primary educational pursuit is to elevate the representation of Black individuals within the healthcare sector, and I have devised several strategic initiatives to realize this objective. The appalling reality of Black individuals being denied access to affordable, high-quality education stirs within me a fervent desire to extend support to those yearning for educational advancement yet hindered by systemic barriers. Delving into the depths of poverty and discrimination endured by Black communities evokes a profound sense of dismay. But what lies at the core of this poverty? It emanates from the struggles of Black single mothers, ensnared within the web of systemic poverty, entangled in elevated rates of gang involvement and criminality — every facet contributes to the systemic oppression. Crucially, efficacious education and reasonably priced living conditions serve as pivotal catalysts in breaking the cycle of poverty ensnaring my community. As a young woman endeavoring to dismantle this cycle, I am cognizant of the time, effort, and unwavering focus required for this arduous journey. I am steadfast in my commitment to fulfill this purpose and contribute meaningfully to society. Volunteering in urban neighborhoods has been instrumental in deepening my understanding of the challenges faced by marginalized communities and has catalyzed my commitment to breaking the generational curses and poverty afflicting Black people. Immersing myself in these communities allowed me to witness firsthand the systemic barriers and social injustices that perpetuate cycles of poverty and oppression. Through my volunteer experiences, I engaged directly with individuals and families grappling with economic hardship, a lack of access to quality education, and limited opportunities for advancement. Working side by side with community members, I listened to their stories, shared their struggles, and gained invaluable insights into the complexities of their lived experiences. My volunteer experiences served as a catalyst for my personal journey towards dismantling systemic injustices and uplifting marginalized communities. By bearing witness to the resilience and strength of individuals striving to overcome adversity, I was inspired to take action in pursuit of social justice and equity. I am deeply committed and focused on increasing the representation of Black individuals within the healthcare sector. Recognizing the disparities and systemic barriers that have historically marginalized Black communities, I am driven by a profound sense of purpose to effect meaningful change. Through targeted initiatives and strategic collaborations, I aim to dismantle the structural inequities that impede access to healthcare careers for Black individuals. By advocating for inclusive recruitment practices, providing mentorship and support networks, and fostering pathways to educational and professional advancement, I am dedicated to expanding opportunities and creating a more diverse and representative healthcare workforce. My unwavering determination to amplify the voices and perspectives of Black healthcare professionals underscores my steadfast commitment to building a more equitable and inclusive healthcare landscape. Embarking on my academic journey in nursing at Erie 1 Boces Harkness Career and Technical Center has equipped me with invaluable insights and practical experience. Working across diverse healthcare settings — from hospitals to nursing homes and medical labs — has honed my skills in planning, problem-solving, and nursing studies. Moreover, my extensive engagement in community service within my neighborhood has afforded me a deeper understanding of the lived experiences of diverse populations. As I set my sights on SUNY Brockport to major in nursing and minor in behavioral studies and addictions, I recognize the importance of holistic care in addressing complex health issues. My commitment to enhancing patient care and elevating hospital standards through the integration of cutting-edge technology underscores my dedication to making a tangible difference in the healthcare landscape. In conclusion, my essay encapsulates not only my fervent desire to combat systemic injustices but also my unwavering commitment to effectuating positive change within the healthcare sector. Through my multifaceted approach to education, community service, and professional aspirations, I am poised to stand out as an applicant for this scholarship. My unique perspective, coupled with my resolute determination to serve marginalized communities, distinguishes me as an individual committed to fostering a more equitable and compassionate world.

In the tumultuous landscape of life, amidst the storms of adversity and the shadows of sorrow, there exists a beacon of unwavering kindness and resilience — my mother. Throughout the trials and tribulations we've endured, from my father's battle with alcohol addiction to the sorrow of multiple losses, my mother's unwavering kindness has not only sustained us but has also transformed my perspective on life, inspiring me to aspire to be a better person. My mother's kindness is like a gentle breeze that soothes the weary soul and a guiding light that illuminates the darkest of paths. Despite the challenges we faced as a family, she remained a pillar of strength and compassion, offering love and support unconditionally. Her selflessness knows no bounds, as she tirelessly cares for our family, often sacrificing her own personal needs for the sake of others. In the shadow of my father's addiction, my mother emerged as a beacon of hope and resilience. She navigated the turbulent waters of his addiction with grace and dignity, never wavering in her commitment to support him through his struggles. Her unwavering love and forgiveness taught me the power of empathy and compassion, inspiring me to approach life's challenges with grace and understanding. Moreover, my mother's kindness has been a source of solace and comfort in the face of loss and grief. We have weathered the storms of multiple deaths within our family, each one leaving a void that seemed impossible to fill. Yet, through it all, my mother's love remained steadfast, providing a sense of warmth and belonging even in our darkest hours. In the midst of adversity, my mother's resilience and kindness have changed the way I think about life. Her example has taught me the importance of empathy, forgiveness, and gratitude, guiding me towards a path of personal growth and self-discovery. Inspired by her unwavering kindness, I strive to embody these qualities in my own life, aspiring to be a source of light and hope for others. My mother's kindness has not only shaped my character but has also inspired me to pursue a life of purpose and meaning. I am motivated by her example to make a positive impact in the world, to spread kindness and compassion wherever I go. In her loving embrace, I find the strength to face life's challenges with courage and resilience, knowing that her kindness will always light the way.

The roots of my inspiration for nursing run deep, intertwined with the lives of my beloved elderly grandparents and the profound impact of addiction within my family. From a young age, I was shaped by the experiences of caring for my grandparents and witnessing the devastating effects of alcoholism, experiences that have fueled my passion for nursing and driven me to pursue a minor in addictions and behavioral health. Growing up, my grandparents played a central role in my life, offering love, guidance, and wisdom that left an indelible mark on my heart. As they entered their golden years, I witnessed the challenges they faced as they navigated the complexities of aging, from declining health to the loss of independence. It was during this time that I discovered my innate desire to care for others, to provide comfort and support to those in need, and to make a meaningful difference in their lives. However, the path to pursuing a career in nursing was not without its obstacles. Addiction cast a dark shadow over my family, with alcoholism wreaking havoc on the lives of those I held dear. My own father struggled with alcohol addiction, a battle that consumed him and left our family fractured and scarred. Despite the pain and turmoil it caused, I refused to let addiction define me or dictate my future. Tragically, addiction claimed another victim in my family when I lost my brother to alcohol-related complications. His passing was a devastating blow, a stark reminder of the destructive power of addiction and the urgent need for compassionate and effective care for those battling substance abuse disorders. In the wake of my brother’s death, I felt a renewed sense of purpose and determination to make a difference in the field of nursing, particularly in the realm of addictions and behavioral health. I chose to pursue a minor in this specialized area of study, driven by a desire to gain a deeper understanding of addiction and its impact on individuals, families, and communities. My journey towards nursing is fueled by a profound sense of empathy and a commitment to serving those who are most vulnerable. Through my experiences with my grandparents and the challenges of addiction within my family, I have gained invaluable insights into the complexities of human suffering and the healing power of compassion. I am eager to translate these experiences into meaningful action as I embark on my career in nursing, driven by a deep-seated desire to make a positive impact in the lives of others.

In my whole life, Ola-Mae Spencer, my grandma, was the most compassionate person I had ever encountered. My grandma had the sweetest southern drawl, the most gentle complexion, and the purest heart of all. She was aware that my childhood wasn't the best, so she always made sure I had all I needed. Not only did my grandma have sympathy for me, but she also had compassion for many others. She assisted everyone in her area by taking part in numerous events. She was always loved by everyone. The bond between a grandchild and grandparent is a special one, often marked by love, wisdom, and shared memories. For me, this bond was particularly profound with my compassionate grandmother, who, in her final days, found solace in my care and companionship as she journeyed through hospice. In the twilight of her life, my grandmother’s health began to decline, and it became evident that she required specialized care. With unwavering love and determination, I assumed the role of her primary caregiver, determined to provide her with comfort, dignity, and support during her final chapter. Caring for my grandmother in hospice was both a challenging and deeply rewarding experience. I witnessed firsthand the physical and emotional toll that illness can take on an individual, but I also saw the power of compassion and human connection in alleviating suffering and bringing peace to those in need. Every day, I tended to her needs with tenderness and empathy, ensuring that she was comfortable and surrounded by love. In December of 2022, the good Lord called my grandmother home, leaving behind a void that could never be filled. Her death was a profound loss, but it also served as a catalyst for profound personal reflection and growth. In her memory, I made a solemn vow to honor her legacy by dedicating myself to a career in nursing, a path that would allow me to continue her legacy of compassion and caregiving. The decision to pursue nursing school was not made lightly but was born out of a deep sense of purpose and calling. My grandmother’s passing taught me the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment, but it also instilled in me a profound sense of resilience and determination. I carry her memory with me as I embark on this new chapter, drawing strength from her love and wisdom as I pursue my dreams of making a difference in the lives of others. In conclusion, my experience caring for my compassionate grandmother in hospice was a transformative journey that has profoundly shaped my personal and professional aspirations. Her passing has inspired me to pursue a career in nursing, motivated by a desire to honor her memory and continue her legacy of love, compassion, and caregiving.

Since childhood, my passion for nursing has been deeply ingrained within me, a calling that emerged from a blend of personal experiences and innate compassion. From a young age, I found myself drawn to the idea of caring for others, perhaps stemming from the challenges I faced in my own family life. Growing up in the midst of familial turmoil, with an alcoholic father and aging grandparents in need of care, I was thrust into the role of caregiver early on, a responsibility that shaped my understanding of empathy and resilience. The seeds of my passion for nursing were sown in the midst of adversity. Witnessing my father’s struggle with alcoholism taught me the importance of compassion and patience in dealing with individuals battling their own demons. It was through these experiences that I realized the profound impact that healthcare professionals can have on the lives of others, inspiring me to pursue a career where I could make a tangible difference in people’s lives. Moreover, caring for my elderly grandparents instilled in me a deep sense of empathy and respect for the elderly population. I witnessed firsthand the challenges they faced as they navigated the complexities of aging, from declining health to the loss of independence. In assuming the role of caregiver for them, I developed invaluable skills in communication, organization, and problem-solving, all of which are essential in the field of nursing. My decision to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing at SUNY Brockport is driven by a desire to formalize my passion for caregiving and to equip myself with the knowledge and skills necessary to make a meaningful impact in the field of healthcare. SUNY Brockport’s renowned nursing program, with its emphasis on evidence-based practice and hands-on clinical experience, aligns perfectly with my academic and professional goals. Furthermore, SUNY Brockport’s commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive learning environment resonates deeply with me. As someone who has faced adversity and overcome personal challenges, I am drawn to a community that values and celebrates individual differences. I am eager to collaborate with fellow students and faculty members who share my passion for nursing and who are dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of others. In conclusion, my journey towards a career in nursing has been shaped by a deep-seated passion for caregiving, nurtured by personal experiences, and fueled by a desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. The challenges I've experienced have shaped who I am now, and overcoming them has taught me how to maintain my demeanor no matter what.

Growing up with an alcoholic father was a defining chapter of my life, marked by adversity, turmoil, and resilience. His struggles with addiction cast a long shadow over my childhood, exposing me to the devastating effects of substance abuse and mental health disorders firsthand. In addition to the physical toll of his addiction, I endured years of mental abuse, living in constant fear and uncertainty. My mom was forced to take on two jobs as a result in order to make ends meet. My mother had to take drastic measures to make ends meet, as my father's earnings were entirely wasted on drugs and alcohol. I used to wonder all the time, "Why can't my dad attend my events?" He couldn't have done so since he was too intoxicated. My father was an alcoholic who was not sober enough to care for his children; I didn't have an alcoholic dad. I had my mother by my side the entire time, even though he wasn't around to congratulate me on what I was doing for myself. She is the real reason I persisted. Despite the challenges I faced at home, my experiences ignited within me a profound sense of empathy, compassion, and determination to make a difference in the lives of others. As I navigated the tumultuous waters of adolescence, I found solace and purpose in nurturing a deep-seated aspiration to pursue a career in nursing, with a minor in addictions and behavioral health. I was genuinely curious to know what led my father to select alcohol and how his drinking contributed to his actions. My decision to become an addictions and behavioral health nurse is deeply rooted in my personal journey of healing and transformation. I refuse to let the scars of my past define me; instead, I choose to harness them as sources of strength and motivation to effect positive change in the lives of individuals grappling with similar struggles. My own experiences have instilled within me a unique understanding of the complexities of addiction and mental illness, as well as the profound impact they can have on individuals, families, and communities. My ultimate goal is to obtain my registered nursing license and work as a pediatric addictions and behavior health nurse since I believe that addiction often starts in childhood. My choice of research is specifically because it helps children whose addictions are stopped before they worsen. My unwavering dedication to holistic treatment and rehabilitation has inspired my path to become an addictions and behavioral health nurse. I have a strong interest in using therapeutic modalities, evidence-based treatments, and interdisciplinary methods to assist people in achieving empowerment and well-being. Using community services, medication management, or therapy, I am committed to providing all-encompassing, individualized treatment that takes into account each person's particular requirements and goals. As a student raised by a single mother, financing my education has been a formidable challenge. The Dimon A. Williams Memorial Scholarship would provide invaluable assistance, alleviating the financial burden and enabling me to pursue my academic aspirations with greater focus and determination. I truly want to attend college as a first-generation student. With this scholarship, I can continue my education without undue financial stress, ensuring that I have the opportunity to achieve my full potential and contribute positively to society.

Passion is the driving force that propels individuals to pursue excellence, effect change, and leave an indelible mark on their chosen field. As a nursing professional deeply passionate about leveraging technology to innovate patient care, my journey is characterized by an unwavering commitment to harnessing the transformative power of technology to enhance clinical outcomes, optimize workflow efficiency, and elevate the standard of nursing practice. From the outset of my nursing career, my passion for innovation has been palpable. I am captivated by the endless possibilities that technology offers to revolutionize patient care delivery and address the evolving needs of our healthcare system. With each technological advancement, I am fueled by a sense of excitement and curiosity, eager to explore its potential applications in nursing practice and envision the positive impact it can have on patient outcomes. My passion for using technology to innovate in nursing is rooted in a deep-seated belief in the fundamental principle of patient-centered care. I am driven by a genuine desire to enhance the quality of life for every individual under my care, to alleviate their suffering, and to promote their well-being. Technology serves as a powerful enabler in realizing this vision, offering novel solutions to complex healthcare challenges and empowering nurses to deliver care that is truly personalized, proactive, and holistic. Furthermore, my passion for innovation in nursing is fueled by a relentless pursuit of excellence and a commitment to lifelong learning. I embrace every opportunity to expand my knowledge, hone my skills, and stay abreast of emerging technologies shaping the future of healthcare. Whether through professional development courses, attending conferences, or engaging in collaborative research projects, I am driven by a thirst for knowledge and a fervent desire to push the boundaries of what is possible in nursing practice. Moreover, my passion for using technology to innovate in nursing is grounded in a profound sense of responsibility to advocate for the well-being of both patients and fellow healthcare professionals. I recognize the immense potential of technology to alleviate the burdens associated with administrative tasks, reduce clinician burnout, and foster a culture of collaboration and teamwork. By championing the adoption of technology-driven solutions within healthcare settings, I strive to create environments that prioritize the welfare of all stakeholders and enable them to thrive. In conclusion, my passion for leveraging technology to innovate in nursing is a driving force that propels me forward in my professional journey. It is rooted in a deep-seated commitment to patient-centered care, a relentless pursuit of excellence, and a profound sense of responsibility to advocate for the well-being of all stakeholders. As I continue on this path, I am inspired by the boundless possibilities that technology offers to transform patient care and shape the future of nursing practice.

The credential I received as a Certified Nursing Assistant through my school pathway program is now my proudest accomplishment. I am currently enrolled in a program offered by Erie 1 Boces called Health Careers II, and I have no regrets about taking it. Obtaining my CNA certificate is a testament to the amount of effort and commitment I have made to this program, and I am overjoyed to have done so. I genuinely feel like I'm on top of the world and unstoppable because of my achievements. I have had an intense passion for nursing since I was a little child, which is why I chose this high school nursing program. I had big goals for myself, and this program would help me get my college career off to a great start. Having said that, I have no regrets about choosing to begin my nursing profession early during my junior year of high school. My passion has always been providing care and protection for others; this feeling dates back to my early childhood, when I had to look after my elderly, incontinent grandparents. I was destined to be my grandparents' caregiver, but I didn't want to stop there. I convinced myself that I was meant for nursing. I have learned a great deal about nursing units and have had a ton of hands-on experience because of this course of study. I genuinely enjoy providing care for those who are unable to help themselves now that I have acquired this skill. I've visited a lot of medical institutions, including blood donation centers, nursing homes, and gross anatomy laboratories. I have met the most incredible staff members and cared for the most fantastic individuals through my clinicals. My experiences have all really helped me to view healthcare from a broader perspective. At SUNY Brockport, I intend to major in nursing and minor in behavioral studies and addictions in the future. I believe that since nursing care only concentrates on a patient's physical rehabilitation, my study should be directed toward other topics, which is why I'm looking into psychological health and addictions: I must determine whether drug misuse or psychological trauma is the cause of the health problem. I want to manage my department and have a life that is devoted to supporting and assisting people. My objective is to provide nursing staff with access to the newest technological advancements in order to enhance patient care and hospital standards. In conclusion, I believe that working as an addictions and behavioral health nurse will help patients both now and in the future. I genuinely desire to eradicate addiction, one person at a time, and transform the world. I'll need to do a lot of research, and the process won't be simple, but I always welcome challenges that push me to grow. Obtaining the information I want will not only help me accomplish my own goals but also help others accomplish theirs and support others. Now that I'm so focused, nothing can stop me.

April 4, 2023: A chilly, wet afternoon. The rain is dripping down the window shield, the wind is blowing left and right, and my mother and I are pleading with God for my brother's safety. While praying aloud, "God, please save this boy," and "Heavenly Father, please guide me," my mother is driving urgently to my brother's house. I'm also saying aloud, "Please, God, grant that my brother survives." Let us find him alive, please." My mom and I are reciting such deep prayers, and all I can think of is—where is my brother? Is he alright? What was done to him by whom? My thoughts are completely disorganized, and I'm crying uncontrollably out of anxiety. God, please spare my sibling from death. My family and I are pounding on my brother's doors outside in the chilly, rainy weather. All I can say is, "LA, let us in!" or, "LA, please come get the door!" Despite the loud pounding, my brother has not responded to the door. We break in and discover my brother, who has tragically died. My heart was completely broken. I screamed in panic because, first of all, I just discovered my brother dead, and second, I don't know what to do. I regularly checked on my brother, but he passed away in this house by himself. I feel instant regret when I consider what I could have done to help him. I stride in and out. God, why? Despite my intense sadness at my brother's loss of life, I had to take care of my entire family. In order to support my parents, my other siblings, and my extended family, I had to hold back my emotions. I was determined to find the cause of his death, and I succeeded in doing just that. My brother's death was due to pancreatic issues brought on by excessive drinking. Knowing this, I felt compelled to take action to reduce the number of alcohol-related fatalities. I needed to know what kind of nurse specialization I wanted to pursue, even though I was already enrolled in nursing school. At that moment, it dawned on me that I could potentially succeed in pediatrics to prevent the issue from getting worse and eventually become a pediatric, addictions and behavior health nurse. Regarding my professional goals, I want to major in nursing and minor in addictions and psychological wellness at SUNY Brockport. In addition to leading my department, I want to live a life dedicated to helping and supporting others. Moreover, I am driven to improve patient care and hospital standards by giving nursing staff access to innovative technologies. I want my patients to think of me as more than just a regular nurse. A nurse who treats her patients like her own children. The nurse who made everyone smile and gave them confidence that everything would work itself out. The nurse who truly has a love for caring for patients, all in the honor of my brother, Arthur. May his soul rest in heavenly peace.

Flips and two twelve-inch blue and white pom-poms may not seem like much to some, but they have made a big difference in my life. Although yelling "Go Wildcats!" on Friday evenings might seem like the silliest way to kill time, it has been ingrained in my daily routine. For me, the nine-six-inch vibrant blue mats represent my hard work and devotion as a cheerleader, even if they may look ordinary to others. I have spent more than ten years of my life participating in cheering, shouting, and dancing that support sports teams during games. I have no regrets about the time I've spent on a mat or underneath a stadium full of supporters. Cheerleading has completely improved my life, despite the opinions of some who view it as a silly activity or not a sport at all. Cheerleading is worth everything in the end, even if it means getting up early for competitions or staying out late at night to do what I love the most. Competitive cheering is one of the hardest physical hobbies due to the severe physical demands of carrying a person in the air with only one or two arms. Cheerleaders aren't simply young people who support a football or basketball team for two or more hours; we're strong, driven individuals who give our best to create an entertaining routine and keep an audience engaged. I genuinely adore cheering since it has had such a profound impact on my life. For me, cheer is my safe haven, a place where I can go have fun, be myself, and not feel judged or forced to be someone I am not. As a person, teammate, and athlete, cheer has made me so much stronger as a person. I learned tons of life skills from it that I never would've acquired without becoming a cheerleader. Kids who participate in sports like cheering can improve both their athleticism and sense of self. Children may feel more bonded at school if they have a team to lean on. I've made connections with a lot of individuals through cheering, including groups at my school and national organizations. It is without a doubt the greatest sport I have ever participated in. All in all, cheerleading has helped me become more expressive. It is a really positive and enthusiastic activity for young boys and girls. Increasing social and mental abilities are an advantage for cheerleaders. When compared to other female sports, the sport as a whole has poor rates of substance misuse, academic failure, fatalism, and loneliness. Beyond only being able to tumble and shout, cheerleading teaches people many other things. Being a cheerleader teaches us how to collaborate with others and how to support anyone who needs a little more motivation. The people who are on your cheerleading team will become like family to you, just as my teammates have become my sisters. My heart will always bleed blue and white, and I will always be a cheerleader at heart.

It was definitely not easy for me to go from a major city school, where I was problematic and feisty, to a suburban school where most of the students were white and heavily privileged. I went to a school full of white, rich, preppy kids, and I was the usual "ghetto" black girl. I never believed that I was as loud or ghetto as they said. The pressure placed on me and the derogatory remarks classmates and teachers were making about me made the shift extremely tough, but I knew that despite all of this pain, I had to prove everyone else wrong. I was a bright, intelligent, powerful Black girl—not a distressed kid from the city. The person who attempted to disprove the unflattering accusations made against me was Mrs. Joann Ryder, my counselor for grades 7 and 8. From the first day of seventh grade until I entered high school, Mrs. Ryder provided me with support. No matter what occurred, what people thought of me, or how I behaved, Mrs. Ryder was there for me and always tried to make things better. She was always aware of my happiness and sweetness, but the harsh remarks made about me were a result of my manners and skin tone. Mrs. Ryder worked hard to make me feel secure enough to attend school every day, regardless of my race or how other people saw me. "What can you do to prove everyone wrong? What can you do to disprove the reputation made about you?" was a favorite question Mrs. Ryder used to ask me, and it still resonates with me today. I had a plan of action and was motivated to disprove those opposed, but I needed a platform. Mrs. Ryder put in a lot of effort to provide me with a platform so I could begin to better myself, and she succeeded in doing just that. She took me out of lunch to avoid bullying and spoke to me about my future and what I could be doing to become better. She gave me life lessons on how to sustain an enjoyable lifestyle. Mrs. Ryder's words of encouragement and motivation encouraged me to immediately change my behavior. I began participating in a variety of activities, including cheerleading and track, and I even joined middle school groups like Helping Hands and the Foreign Language Club. In order to erase the negative perception that had been created about me, I occupied myself with uplifting people and activities. Within a few months, my grades began to soar, and I was actively involved in extracurricular activities in addition to being a high honors student. Mrs. Ryder was present for everything. She discussed with me having a stronger mental attitude, managing extracurricular activities and academics, and my groups and sports. She genuinely served as my role model for my middle and high school years I've managed to avoid trouble by continuing to participate in groups and athletics throughout high school. Overall, I am a successful high school student now, and it appears that people have forgotten the unfavorable things said about me. As a young Black lady, I'm heading to college with a nursing concentration. I've grown out of my "ghetto" and "fatherless" wild past. I'm a successful, educated young black lady who is driven to change the world. I am extremely grateful to Mrs. Ryder for inspiring me to become a better person. I can never express how much I appreciate her. Mrs. Joann Ryder demonstrated what it means to have someone who is ready to take all the risks necessary to achieve.

The disparities that Black individuals face in healthcare are often overlooked. Many black people are frequently tasked with performing "dirty work" for various fields of medicine. I intend to make up for that disparity, and I have ambitious plans for doing so. My main educational objective is to raise the proportion of Black individuals working in healthcare, and I have several projects in place to achieve this. It is disgusting that black people cannot access inexpensive, high-quality education, and I want to assist the individuals who so badly want to attend school but are unable to do so. To begin with, it is incredibly disheartening to see the poverty and discrimination that Black people face. But you could wonder, from where does this poverty originate? It stems from black single moms whose fathers are in prison, from being trapped in the poverty system, from gang and criminal rates, from every aspect, honestly. The important thing to remember is that efficient education and reasonably priced living expenses are essential to breaking the cycle of poverty among my people. As a young woman attempting to end this pattern, I understand that it will take time to complete this process. It takes much preparation, study, and a focused mind. I am here to fulfill that purpose and serve the world for this particular reason. I have studied nursing for the past two years at Erie 1 Boces Harkness Career and Technical Center in order to kickstart my academic career. I've been able to work with patients in a variety of settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, and medical labs, because of this curriculum. I have gained knowledge on useful topics including planning, problem-solving, and nursing studies. In order to have a deeper knowledge of how some people live, I have also dedicated a significant amount of time to performing community service in my neighborhood. Despite all that I have accomplished in my high school career, this is just the beginning and does not necessarily indicate what I will pursue for further schooling. Starting off with my goals, I want to major in nursing and minor in behavioral studies and addictions at SUNY Brockport. Since nursing care solely focuses on a patient's physical recovery, I feel that my studies should be focused on other areas. That's why I'm researching addictions and behavioral health: I need to determine whether the health issue stems from drug abuse or psychological trauma. Along with managing my department, I want to live a life dedicated to helping and supporting others. My goal is to improve patient care and hospital standards by giving nursing staff access to the latest advances in technology. In summary, I sincerely hope to improve the world by removing the generational curses placed on Black people and by giving effective care to individuals. I feel that my mission on our planet is to care for everyone and to assist Black people in breaking the cycle of poverty, even though I know it will be a difficult undertaking to do. By getting the knowledge I need, this will not only help me reach my own objectives, but it will also help other people achieve their goals and assist others.

I was made to love, give, and take care of other people. That is exactly what I was put on this earth to do. Growing up, I shared my childhood home with my elderly grandparents, and I have no complaints. They both needed my help, and I had to provide it to them—again, without feeling guilty about it. I assisted Grandpa with eating, checking his blood sugar, and taking his medications. I always made sure my grandmother took her medicine, prepared meals for my cousins and myself, and assisted in keeping her happy. I devoted my early years to supporting my grandparents. My youth was really supported by my grandparents, and we were mutually dependent on one another. Now, where would I be without them? Regretfully, my grandfather passed peacefully in March 2014. I was heartbroken by this, but I had to go forward for my grandma. I was her primary caregiver as she became older and lost mobility. I did everything specifically for Grandma; I needed to take care of the woman who always cared for me. I quickly found myself enrolling in the Health Careers program at Erie 1 Boces Harkness and Career Technical Center because I was determined to take care of my grandmother and become a licensed nursing assistant for her. Right then, it was perfect since I could finally begin taking care of my grandmother officially. On the cold morning of December 12th, 2022, the Lord called my grandma home. I then wondered what I should do at this point. In a moment, my grandmother—whom I relied upon for sixteen years of my life—was taken from me. I started to feel that I couldn't succeed in my academics without her; therefore, I started to lose motivation. I suddenly understood that this was an unwise decision. I had to help my grandmother in order to preserve her legacy. I then made the decision to continue assisting others by attending school to become a registered nurse. This has been one of the best decisions I've ever made in my life, hands down. I can still live out my life's purpose and assist others in need. Overall, I will continue to live up to my grandparents' name. I will still continue to help others, because that's what I was made to do. I will provide care for others as if they were my own family. I will become a successful nurse and help others around me. I will keep doing my hardest in everything, and I will continue to strive in all areas. I promise to live up to my name and my purpose in life. To L.C and Ola Mae Spencer, I love you and thank you for everything. Rest easy, my angels.

A leader: the one in charge, the person who convinces other people to follow. Leadership: the ability of an individual, group, or organization to lead, influence, or guide other individuals, teams, or entire organizations. What I am, is a LEADER. A person must be proud of their work in order to be a good leader. Having said that, I genuinely take satisfaction in the work I perform for people everywhere, not just in my community. I feel that my purpose in life is to serve those in need, so I strive extremely hard to assist everyone in my life. I was meant to take care of other people. However, in order to care for others, one must first take care of oneself and adopt the belief that they are capable of caring for others. And that's exactly what I do. I have almost ten years of cheering experience, and I have no regrets about those years. I've learned how to improve my perspective and self-worth through cheerleading. Above all, cheering has helped me learn how to lead and mentor those around me. From my cheerleading experience, I learned how to work with people and encourage individuals who need a little more push, from my cheerleading experience. Having said that, I have stepped up my leadership role with the girls over the last five years, since they have grown to be like my sisters throughout my time on Depew's Varsity Cheer. I genuinely like leading my team and supporting the other girls. It was my beloved grandparents, L.C. and Ola Mae Spencer, who raised me  to become a leader. I was taught to never be a follower and to always maintain my ground by my wise and firm Southern grandfather. With his word, I really do live up to that. My grandmother, a beautiful southern belle, instilled in me the value of never allowing anything or anybody to deplete me to the point that I lose my ability to lead. I still abide by her advice, which was to "Concentrate on Amanda and worry about everybody else later." My grandparents helped mold me into the confident, determined person I am today. I have dedicated the last two years of my life to attending nursing school in honor of my grandparents, not realizing that I would soon have a head start with my career. I was pleased to receive an early start offer to become a nursing assistant after I complete my high school studies in a health occupations program at Erie 1 Boces Technical Center in September 2022. I have worked with and learned how to care for elderly and in-need people in this program in addition to learning the fundamentals of nursing, and I really adore it. Through my clinicals, I have developed relationships with the patients I look after, and I truly love caring for them. All things considered, performing community service has allowed me to develop and improve essential skills that are utilized in the workplace, such as organization, communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and project planning. I've met individuals through community service who have significantly changed my life, and I don't regret doing the work I do at all.

Ola Mae Spencer. The woman with the perfect southern accent, light complexion, and wonderful southern hospitality. The church lady who took great pleasure in raising her children, the one who prepared the most delicious summertime Monday morning breakfasts, and the one who always had a sixth sense about everyone's problems. My grandmother was that. She has been the pillar of support for my entire family for many years, not just myself. Oh good God, without her, what would I have done? As previously mentioned, my grandma was an immense source of motivation for her community and the pillar of my family. She was admired by everyone. I wouldn't be who I am now without her; she was a true gem in the rough. She enjoyed serving as a leader in the communities she resided in, attending Sunday morning services, and Thursday night bible studies. She was a real child of God. It was my grandma who gave me the motivation to pursue a career in healthcare. I recall telling her that I had enrolled in my high school's pre-nursing program; she was ecstatic. As the years passed and her mobility deteriorated, I planned on caring for her when I graduated, since I'd have my certification in nursing aid. It was my turn to provide my grandmother with the care she so kindly provided for me when I was a child. Grandma was ecstatic when I informed her I would be helping her. "That's my Manda baby, growin' up to take care of her grandma." After hearing such comments, I felt completely enlightened and motivated to complete my high school education so that I could spend more time with her. Everything was perfect, and I knew exactly what to do. Grandma was called home by the Lord on December 12, 2022, a chilly winter's morning. I was completely heartbroken and started to lose hope for my academic career. I was devastated that Grandma wouldn't be in my care, but despite all of this depressing information, I came to understand that Grandma had always wanted me to be successful. I set out to become a nurse since I knew that I am her final grandchild and that she would have wanted me to finish my schooling. I have to finish my studies since I know she's keeping an eye on me and wants me to accomplish everything with school. I have to finish my education in her honor because that is what she would have wanted me to accomplish if she were still with me. With that being said, I will begin my studies at SUNY Brockport in less than seven months after being admitted to the nursing program in October of 2023. I proudly say that sentence. Who would have thought that one person would cause my life to completely change? Sometimes unexpected things happen in reality. When I go to nursing class, I do it for her. getting myself through a harsh unit at school, I'm doing it for her. Mental blocks, I overcome them for her. At the end of the day, I do it all for Grandma. May she rest in heavenly peace.

First off, thank you for viewing my application. My name is Amanda-Lee. I'm a senior at Depew High School and a part of the concert choir at Depew Music, the cheerleading team for Depew Varsity, and a health careers program at Erie 1 Boces. I have been driven to pursue a profession in healthcare since I was a little girl because I have always wanted to care for my beloved elderly grandparents, whom I lived with at the time. Ever since I was a child, I have always asked myself why my grandparents need assistance from aids when I am capable of doing everything to assist them on my own. Then it clicked on me. Since they were unable to take care of themselves, I wanted to help them with their everyday requirements. Having stated that, I registered in a program for health careers so I could get a jump start on my career. I was devastated when the Lord called my grandfather and grandmother home in the years 2014 and 2022. Correspondingly, I was at a loss for what I still wanted to do, but knowing that I enjoy caring for others, I felt it had to be something in the healthcare sector. I decided to pursue a degree in nursing because, at this time, it seemed like the best fit for me. I want to be the greatest nurse I can be with my nursing license. I want to work hard to be a nurse who is secure in providing patient care and who approaches every patient as if they were a member of my family. My goal is to become a nurse who makes a good difference in people's lives.

My interest has always been in healthcare, even as a little child. Since I was little and had to take care of my dependent grandparents, I have always felt that caring for and watching over other people is what my heart was meant to do. It was my destiny to look after my grandparents. I told myself that I had been made for this. Despite the passing of my grandma in December 2022 and my grandpa in March 2014, I am still meant to care for individuals in their memory. That's when it hit me—I need a job where I have to take care of people. Having said that, I can genuinely state that I love my two-year program at Erie 1 Boces, where I was accepted to begin my career in the health sciences. I've come to enjoy my present spot ever since I began the program. I adore the things I am studying in the program, my teacher, and my classmates. I enjoy picking up new abilities and studying the functioning of the human body. Above all, I enjoy the clinicals we participate in when we get to care for senior citizens. I now care for and cherish them as though they were members of my own family. I adore every aspect of nursing and providing direct patient care. In addition to pursuing a health careers program in my junior and senior years, I've participated in a lot of extracurricular activities and cheered, as I recently became cheer captain. I absolutely enjoy participating in mixed chorus, link crew, and concert choir. While I participated in a variety of activities during my time in middle and high school, cheering is my favorite activity and the only sport I ever participated in. I have no regrets about it. I now think of my coach as my second mother and my teammates as my sisters. The ladies describe me as "motherlike" since I like ensuring that we are all in sync and boosting their self-esteem in general. The Morgan Levine Dolan Community Service Scholarship will assist me in covering the costs of my education, which I will begin to incur in August 2024. As a low-income student supported only by my single mother, I work to try to save for the housing and tuition costs I will pay. I'm confident that the Morgan Levine Dolan Community Service Scholarship will assist me with some of my costs, as this has been a difficult undertaking for me to complete. I have a strong desire to complete a four-year college program, earn a bachelor's degree in science in nursing, and work toward becoming a registered nurse. I have a strong desire to serve my community by completing my studies and becoming a professional pediatric nurse. It is among my top priorities in life.

I've had a burning passion for caring for others, especially my grandparents, since I was a little girl. I thought to myself that my grandparents were elderly and in constant need of assistance around the house. If I can take care of them, why must others enter their home and take care of them? Then it hit me—I could take care of them without my family needing to employ any assistance, and I was determined to do so. At this point, I decided to dedicate my studies to my grandparents and seek a healthcare career. As time went on, my grandparents' illnesses worsened; my grandfather passed away in March 2014, and my grandma in December 2022. I was heartbroken by this, as I wanted to take care of them both as a child. I began to lose hope, but then I realized that I could start pursuing a job in healthcare for them both instead of giving up. I, therefore, decided to enroll in Erie 1 Boces' Health Careers program in September 2022 to officially begin my career and earn a nursing assistant certification upon high school graduation. To complete my nursing education and possibly earn my bachelor's degree, I intend to attend SUNY College at Brockport, as it will provide me with the knowledge I need. As I work with children in a pediatric hospital, I sincerely aspire to become a skilled and effective registered nurse. I want to provide joy to everyone in my area and ensure that all of my patients receive quality treatment while I'm here. I want everyone to perceive and remember me as a humorous, kind, and caring person in addition to being a nurse. My goal is to have a good influence on not just the patients but on the staff, family, and members of the community. As claimed, I believe I will successfully continue the education of the beloved Breanna. In addition, I want to manage my department and devote my life to serving and caring for people. Furthermore, I have a strong desire to elevate hospital standards and enhance patient care by providing advanced technology to nursing staff. I want my patients to remember me as a nurse who is more than simply a nurse. the nurse who tends to patients as though they were her own children. The nurse that put a smile on everyone's face and assured them that everything would sort itself out. The nurse who genuinely feels passionate about patient care.

Mother screamed all night, but I was too young to understand. Why? When a child is eight, they shouldn’t have to listen to their parents argue for hours on end. I shouldn’t have had to wonder why my father was coming home "zombie-like" at night. When a child is eight years old, they should not wonder why their father is leaving for days at a time with no notice. One shouldn't have had to ponder why their household was so broken apart; why did everyone hate each other so badly? When I got older and caught on to what was happening all of my life, I was mortified. I was disappointed in my father for treating my mother the way he did and for leaving his family behind to do what he wanted. I felt empathetic for my mother because she was the one who had to handle it all. I was confused for my siblings because I wanted to know how it affected them personally. Were my siblings handling it the way I did, or did they just not care? I will never know. Most of the time I had to myself, I spent it in my thoughts. Confusion was all I ever knew or would ever know. I just knew that my situation was bad, and it was drastically taking a toll on my well-being. Although my situation at home was chaotic, from an outside view, I was fine. Life wasn’t the best for the time being, but I always managed to crack a joke or two. Someone from a distance wouldn't have been able to understand what happened in my household because I masked my emotions so well. I worked so hard to put a smile on my face for everyone. Although it wasn't always easy, who really had it easy? I discovered how to hide my feelings while feeling miserable at the end of the day. However, as I got older, I inherited unhealthy distractions to push the pain away. Various eating disorders, having confining obsessions with people, and even looking for a father figure in men are what caught my attention. The complications eventually had an impact on my mental health. I wouldn't say that I reached rock bottom, but I definitely went through a rough patch. I discovered that healthy distractions were the best thing to do when everything piled up on me. Going on walks, spending time with my friends, and even doing piles of homework always distracted me from reality. As I got older and got into my mid-teenage years, I realized that surrounding myself with positive people made me happy. Getting out of my comfort zone and going to do exciting activities with my friends made me the happiest. Helping my friends deal with their emotions kept me from dealing with mine, as though it wasn’t the best way to cope. Soon, I realized that this moment in my life was a time to forgive and move on from my past, so I began caring for myself better, and I became happier than ever. I wanted this feeling to last forever. My mother and father still have frequent arguments. For the most part, my family has distanced itself from my father and begun leading healthier, happier lives. Just by being able to say that, I could cry tears of happiness. Although my life wasn’t as traumatic as some people tend to view it as, I still had struggles like everyone else. I’m still human, and I still go through rough times. I still face rough patches to this day; now I just know how to handle them better. Growing from traumatic experiences can not only make an individual into a strong person, but someone can also take it as an opportunity to grow and better themselves. Oneself is all that matters at the end of the day.

Before I was born, being my grandmother’s “baby” was something that she looked forward to. I began to adore her as I got older. Grandma’s demeanor and her lovely morning breakfasts were my favorite things ever. Going to church on Thursday evenings just to hear her sing was something I always looked forward to. She made everything so much better; she favored me since my childhood wasn’t the greatest. I always cared about her the most, even when everything went crashing down. Although I spent most of my youth summers with my grandmother, I had present parents at home. They worked heavily to support me and my siblings, and we were too young to watch ourselves at the time, so we always went to grandma’s. “Mann, Boot! Stop ripping and running through this house!" and “Mann, Boot, come eat breakfast!”, are the sweet words I would hear. I enjoyed playing with other kids on the block and watching everything go by. All I knew was that life was good and summers went by faster than expected. My grandmother eventually moved in with my aunt as she grew older due to health issues. I’d end up at her house for a few summers, but then I was finally able to care for my own. I missed Grandma, but she was always there for me, just a slight phone call away. Her approval was all I ever wanted in my life, so her validation was what really mattered. Grandma’s health declined over time, and she was in and out of hospitals. I felt awful; I knew she didn’t want to be there. My grandmother was always a caretaker, but everything got taken away from her once her health declined. With high school continuing and my career path unknown, I knew I wanted to do something involving her caretaking, so I decided to join a healthcare program so I could become a Certified Nursing Assistant for Grandma. It was the ideal situation because I've always wanted to work in healthcare, and I was going to be able to take care of the woman who always took care of me. With my career path set on my grandmother, the Lord called grandma home on the frigid morning of December 12th, 2022. Grandma lived a long and eventful life, despite the health issues she faced. This was the point at which I lost motivation to accomplish anything since I thought I couldn't do it without her. I took this as motivation to continue my studies since she is watching over me and wants me to succeed. Although Grandma is gone, I am still succeeding in my studies for her. Every time I go to nursing class, I’m doing it for her. I push myself through difficult times for her. At the end of the day, I do it all for Grandma.