The Impact of Adversity on My Passion for Nursing and Psychology by Ava-Joy

The Impact of Adversity on My Passion for Nursing and Psychology by Ava-Joy - February 2025 Scholarship Essay

I have faced numerous challenges throughout my life, each of which has shaped my perspective and fueled my passion for helping others. One of the most transformative experiences came when I witnessed my father’s health decline. His illness, along with the emotional and physical toll it took on our family, ignited in me a deep appreciation for both the medical field and psychology. This experience not only made me realize the profound impact that healthcare professionals—particularly nurses—can have on a person’s life, but it also deepened my interest in understanding the human mind and behavior.

Growing up, I never imagined my path would lead me toward nursing and psychology. However, as my father’s illness progressed, I saw firsthand how healthcare providers, especially nurses, went beyond just treating his physical symptoms. They offered empathy, comfort, and emotional support when our family felt overwhelmed. Watching these professionals balance their technical skills with emotional intelligence made me realize the unique power they have to not only heal the body but also soothe the mind.

It was during this challenging time that I discovered how adversity can transform one's perspective on life. My father's condition, though difficult, taught me the importance of empathy and human connection. I began to understand that the psychological and emotional aspects of illness are just as important as the physical ones. This realization sparked my interest in psychology, especially in areas like mental health and behavioral psychology. I wanted to learn how to support others who were going through similar struggles—whether they were patients fighting chronic illness or families facing the emotional toll of caregiving.

As I continued to witness my father’s journey, I became increasingly drawn to the idea of becoming a nurse. But I also wanted to integrate my interest in psychology to better understand and help people in their most vulnerable moments. Nurses, I realized, do more than administer treatments—they help people navigate the complex emotional and mental challenges that come with illness. I want to combine my passion for understanding human behavior with the desire to care for others in a meaningful way.

Through adversity, I learned to love and care for others more deeply. It was my father’s experience, along with my reflections on the emotional aspects of caregiving, that inspired me to pursue nursing with a focus on mental health and