When I was 5 years old, I decided I was going to become a nurse. It wasn't merely a job choice; it felt like a calling that stemmed from the challenges of my childhood. At the young age of 3, my family’s world was forever changed when my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. For 8 years our lives revolved around hospital visits, chemotherapy, experimental treatments, and numerous doctor appointments. Despite the struggles we faced it was during those times that I developed a respect for the heroes. The nurses. To me these nurses were more than healthcare providers; they embodied something. They comforted my mother after her treatments, listened to her fears, and rejoiced in the smallest victories. Their presence left a mark on my heart as I witnessed their resilience, kindness, and unwavering commitment to care. Losing my mother to breast cancer at the age of 11 was a profound loss, but this story unfolds around another pivotal figure in my life – my step-father, Frank. He was our rock, guiding and supporting us through the darkest times. After my mom passed, Frank took on the enormous role of being a single father to four kids: my sister, his two sons, and me. His strength and dedication profoundly shaped who I am today. Frank was an extraordinary man with a heart as big as the universe. He put family first and his zest for life was contagious. His culinary skills were remarkable, turning simple ingredients into gourmet meals I vividly remember the last meal he made for me: Fish En Papillote - a delicate halibut in a creamy lemon sauce, served over a bed of rice and vegetables. Frank also loved music and often sang me to sleep, a tradition that continued into my high school years. He was there for every broken bone, heartbreak, and volleyball game. He was my go-to for advice and the shoulder I cried on. But what I miss most is the sense of unconditional love and security he gave. The English language falls short of expressing the profound void his passing has left. The Portuguese word "saudade" encapsulates this feeling better - an emotional state of melancholic or profoundly nostalgic longing for a beloved yet absent something or someone. His unexpected death shattered my world. With his absence, I often feel like an untethered soul, every joy tinged with the sorrow of his and my mother's absence. My daughter, who was just 11 months old when he passed, lost a loving grandfather who had already begun to enchant her with songs on his ukulele. This journey of loss and love has been transformative. It has taught me the depths of resilience, the importance of cherishing every moment with loved ones, and the enduring impact one person can have on our lives. Frank's legacy lives on in the lessons he taught me and in the love I share with my daughter. I strive to give her the same sense of security and affection that he gave me. My first decision to become a nurse was influenced by the loss of my mother. Now I am striving to take my education to the next level because I know it would have made my dad proud. He helped me write my admission essay to the Masters of Science in Nursing Program but passed away before I could tell him the news that I'd been accepted.

There I was, fifteen years old, alone, lost, crying in the LAX airport. I had just said goodbye to my dad, boyfriend, and best friend to undertake the experience of a lifetime as an exchange student in Brazil for my junior year of high school. As reality set in, I started to panic. I didn't know anyone, I didn't speak Portuguese, and I had never been out of the country without my dad. How was I going to make it an entire year in São José do Rio Preto? It was a long 15-hour flight, but by the time I landed, my anxiety had passed. Maybe it was because I was too tired to still be freaking out, or perhaps it was the warm welcome from my host family. During my year in Brazil, every strength and insecurity of mine was tested. I no longer had the comforts of my small town. Instead, I had the opportunity to reinvent myself. I savored new foods, experienced the vibrant spectacle of Carnival, and embraced a culture so different from the one I grew up in. Living in Brazil taught me the importance of adaptability and resilience. I learned to communicate through gestures and broken Portuguese, finding creative ways to connect with people despite the language barrier. These challenges pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me develop a deeper sense of self-reliance. The cultural immersion also broadened my perspective in profound ways. I was struck by the strong sense of community and the joy people found in everyday life, even amid economic hardships. Participating in traditional festivals and family gatherings allowed me to see the world through a different lens, fostering a deep appreciation for diversity and human connection. This year abroad was just the beginning of my journey. Since then, I have traveled to over 30 countries, lived in Bali, Thailand, Sri Lanka, and backpacked around Europe and South America. Through my travels, I have met incredible people from diverse backgrounds, enriching my understanding of global cultures and healthcare needs. I recall a poignant moment in Sri Lanka, where I volunteered at a local clinic. Witnessing the healthcare challenges faced by the community ignited my passion for global health and solidified my commitment to making a difference. Travel has not only provided me with unforgettable experiences but also instilled in me a profound sense of empathy and global citizenship. It has shaped my academic and career aspirations, driving me to pursue a future where I can contribute to improving healthcare access and quality worldwide. My journey is far from over, and I am excited to continue exploring, learning, and growing as I work towards these goals. In conclusion, travel has been a transformative force in my life, pushing me to grow personally, embrace new perspectives, and deepen my understanding of the world. The exposure to different cultures and environments has not only enriched my life but also fueled my passion for making a positive impact on a global scale.