I am Palestinian, born in the United States, but my roots trace back to the land of my parents, Palestine. Their journey to this country was filled with sacrifice, resilience, and an unshakable hope for a better future. Growing up, I was always aware of the struggles they endured to provide my siblings and me with opportunities they never had. Their stories of displacement, perseverance, and hard work shaped my identity and instilled in me a deep sense of gratitude and determination. My parents came from a place where opportunities were scarce, yet they carried with them an unbreakable spirit. They taught me the importance of education, not just as a means of success but as a way to uplift our community. As a Palestinian in America, I have always felt a deep responsibility to honor their sacrifices by striving for excellence. But my journey has not been without challenges. Pursuing higher education, especially in nursing, has required immense dedication. I have faced financial struggles, moments of self-doubt, and the pressure of balancing my responsibilities while staying focused on my goals. Yet, through it all, my heritage has been my source of strength. Palestinians have always been known for their resilience, and I carry that same determination with me in everything I do. My passion for nursing stems from my desire to help others, particularly children. I want to be a pediatric nurse because I understand the importance of compassionate care, especially for families who are facing uncertainty and fear. Growing up in a Palestinian household, I learned the value of community, of looking out for one another, and of offering support in times of need. Nursing allows me to extend those values beyond my own family and into the lives of others. Education is a privilege that many in my parents’ homeland are denied, and I do not take my opportunities for granted. I want to use my degree not only to build a better future for myself but also to contribute to my community. Whether through advocacy, mentorship, or direct patient care, I hope to be a source of comfort and support for those who need it most. Receiving this scholarship would mean more than just financial assistance, it would be a recognition of the journey that my family and so many other Palestinians have taken to build a future despite adversity. It would allow me to continue my education without the burden of financial stress and bring me closer to my dream of becoming a pediatric nurse. More importantly, it would reinforce the belief that, despite the obstacles we face, Palestinians can and will continue to achieve greatness. Fakhri’s legacy is one of perseverance, curiosity, and the pursuit of opportunity, values that I strive to embody every day. I am honored to apply for this scholarship, and if given the opportunity, I will continue to work hard to uphold these principles. My journey is not just about my own success; it is about honoring my heritage, giving back to my community, and ensuring that the sacrifices of those before me were not in vain.

From the moment I became a mother, my perspective on life shifted completely. Having children has been the most rewarding and challenging experience of my life, and it’s also what led me to pursue a career in pediatric nursing. I understand firsthand how deeply parents care for their children’s health, and I want to be the kind of nurse who not only provides excellent medical care but also reassures and supports families during difficult times. My journey into nursing hasn’t been easy. As a parent, balancing school, work, and raising my kids has been incredibly challenging, but my determination has never wavered. I have faced hardships that tested my strength, yet they have only deepened my passion for this field. I know what it feels like to be overwhelmed and scared when it comes to a child’s health, and I want to be there for families who are going through those moments. I have always been drawn to helping others, and nursing is the perfect career for me because it allows me to combine my compassion with my desire to make a difference. Pediatric nursing, in particular, holds a special place in my heart. Children are incredibly resilient, but they also require specialized care, patience, and a gentle touch. I want to be a source of comfort for both my young patients and their families, ensuring they receive the best care possible. The nursing shortage is something I see reflected in hospitals and clinics everywhere. More than ever, we need compassionate, skilled nurses who are willing to step up and care for the most vulnerable populations. I want to be part of the solution by dedicating my career to pediatric nursing, helping to fill this critical gap in healthcare. Receiving this scholarship would mean more than just financial assistance, it would be a recognition of the dedication and sacrifices I have made to pursue my dream. As a mother, student, and future pediatric nurse, I am committed to making a meaningful impact in the lives of children and their families. This opportunity would allow me to continue my education and bring me one step closer to fulfilling my calling. It would ease the financial burden of school while allowing me to focus on gaining the knowledge and hands-on experience needed to become the best pediatric nurse I can be. More importantly, it would serve as a reminder that my hard work and perseverance are paying off and that I am on the right path to making a difference in the world. Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to continue this journey and make a difference in the lives of the children I will one day care for.