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Lorraine Kayanja

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Bio

I am passionate about healthcare and serving others. I hope to work in healthcare some day and do my part to make the world a better place.

Education

Mercy College

Bachelor's degree program
2023 - 2027
  • Majors:
    • Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Master's degree program

  • Graduate schools of interest:

  • Transfer schools of interest:

  • Majors of interest:

  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Nursing

    • Dream career goals:

    • Receptionist, Switch board assistant.

      The Serena Hotel Kampala
      2019 – 2019
    • Teaching assistant and Tutor

      Mercy University Center For Academic Excellence
      2023 – Present1 year
    Pierson Family Scholarship for U.S. Studies
    I was born in Africa to Ugandan parents and raised in Uganda, a country known for its vibrant culture, hospitality and breathtaking landscapes. My mother and father separated when I was six years old and my mother, a single parent, worked tirelessly to ensure that my siblings and I had access to education. Growing up in a close-knit community, I witnessed firsthand the struggles many faced due to limited resources and opportunities. I was always pushed by my mother to strive for academic excellence and never to take the opportunities education can give me for granted. During my childhood, I made sure to make the most of every educational opportunity. My teachers in primary and secondary school recognized my potential and supported my academic endeavors this enabled me to finish high school as the highest performing student. Their encouragement and my mother's unwavering belief in me inspired me to aim higher even at the undergraduate level. Additionally, my father frequently fell ill and had to travel to the United States for medical treatment. Witnessing the advanced healthcare he received sparked my interest in health sciences and solidified my decision to pursue higher education in this field in the United States. I wanted to gain a world-class education to acquire the skills necessary to make a meaningful impact in my community back home. One of the most significant challenges I faced was adjusting to life in the United States. Moving to a new country, far from my family and familiar surroundings, was daunting. I struggled with homesickness, cultural differences, and the rigorous academic demands of my university. Despite these obstacles, I have remained focused on my goals. I sought support from international student groups, formed friendships with peers who understood my experiences, and utilized campus resources to enhance my academic performance. The most profound challenge, however, came last year when my father abandoned me and cut off all financial support. This left my mother as my sole sponsor as an international student, even though she couldn't afford to pay all the tuition. To bridge this gap, I took out a student loan, enrolled in a payment plan and worked part-time on campus. Balancing work, studies, and adjusting to a new environment has been incredibly demanding. Nevertheless, I have persevered, paying all monthly installments on time and maintaining an overall 3.978 GPA. This experience has taught me resilience, time management, and the importance of seeking help when needed. Throughout my life, my mother has been my greatest inspiration. Her strength, determination, and selflessness are qualities I deeply admire. She has faced numerous hardships as a single mother raising seven children, yet she has never wavered in her commitment to providing for our family. She taught me the value of hard work, perseverance, and the importance of giving back to one's community. Upon completing my degree, I aspire to continue my education by enrolling into medical or nursing school. My dream has always been to obtain a career in the healthcare field with hopes of starting my own medical practice back home in Uganda. In conclusion, my journey thus far has been shaped by the support of my family, the challenges I have overcome, and the inspiration I draw from my mother. Pursuing higher education in the United States is a crucial step towards achieving my dreams. With this scholarship, I will be one step closer to realizing my vision of making a significant impact in my community and empowering future generations through education.