"Navigating Academia and Aspirations: From Early College Success to Becoming a Compassionate Nurse Anesthesiologist" by Ariadna

"Navigating Academia and Aspirations: From Early College Success to Becoming a Compassionate Nurse Anesthesiologist" by Ariadna - August 2024 Scholarship Essay

I’m an early college student who’s navigated through the academic world at an accelerated pace. Being an early college student has granted me a million opportunities that have allowed me to expand my education. One of those ways was earning my associate’s degree by the time I was 17 during my junior year of high school. As I prepare to embark on my senior year, I will attend the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) due to my hard work and achievements by being one of the top students at my school. As a first generation student, I’m not just looking forward to the next chapter of my education, but instead driven by a vision that’s both ambitious and deeply personal. It comes from the stories of my family, who worked tirelessly to provide me with opportunities they never had. Their sacrifices are my fuel, pushing me to excel and make the most of every chance I’m given. I’m not just breaking barriers for myself; I’m honoring their journey and proving that their hopes and dreams weren’t in vain. My goal is to become a Nurse Anesthesiologist better known as a CRNA. Being a CRNA consists of a role at the crossroads of cutting-edge science and compassionate care. It’s a career that requires not just expertise in the field, but also a profound ability to connect with patients on a human level. I aspire to excel in this field by mastering the intricacies of anesthesia while ensuring that every patient feels seen, heard, and cared for during their most vulnerable moments. Also, by becoming a nurse instead of a doctor, I will be able to connect with patients more since they see me the most. While doctors play a crucial role in diagnosing and creating treatment plans, nurses are on the front lines of daily patient care. They’re the ones who sit at the bedside, offer a reassuring touch, and listen to patients’ concerns with patience and empathy. This is why being able to be a Nurse Anesthesiologist instead of just an Anesthesiologist is far more important and a bigger calling to me. My path to becoming a CRNA is driven by personal and professional goals. On a personal level, I’ve always had a deep-seated desire to help others in profound ways, and this career aligns perfectly with that aspiration as I would ease stress in a very vulnerable situation. Professionally, I’m committed to excelling academically and gaining hands-on experience in the healthcare field. The impact I hope to make through my education is more than just advancing medical knowledge; it’s about revolutionizing the patient experience. I want to be at the forefront of innovations in anesthesia, helping to improve safety and effectiveness, while also bringing a comforting and empathetic presence to the operating room. In doing so, I aim to blend science with a human touch, making the medical experience smoother and more reassuring for those in my care.