Making a Difference in the Workplace by Joseph

Making a Difference in the Workplace by Joseph - April 2025 Scholarship Essay

When I get to college, I plan on majoring in Occupational Health and Safety Management. I chose this major because I care deeply about the well-being of others and want to make a meaningful impact in the workplace. Growing up, I always noticed how important safety is in every environment, from school labs to construction sites, and I realized that many injuries or accidents can be prevented with the right knowledge, training, and leadership. That realization sparked my interest in the systems and professionals who make safety a priority behind the scenes.
Occupational Health and Safety Management is about more than just following rules—it’s about creating a culture of safety and care in workplaces of all kinds. I’m drawn to this field because it blends science, leadership, and problem-solving. It’s a major that allows me to study health, environmental science, risk analysis, and even psychology, all with the goal of protecting people. I find it rewarding to know that my future job could prevent injuries, illnesses, and even save lives. I may not have what it takes to become a doctor, but there is satisfaction in knowing that I could still potentially help save lives. That’s a purpose that motivates me.
Another reason I chose this major is the real-world impact it has across industries. Every job, from factory work to office settings, needs someone thinking about safety and health. That kind of universal demand means I’ll have a wide range of career paths after graduation. Whether I’m working with construction crews, healthcare teams, or manufacturing plants, I’ll be applying my education to help keep people safe, healthy, and productive. That kind of flexibility is important to me because I want a career where I can keep learning and growing.
In addition to the safety aspect of the major, I’m also interested in the leadership side of Occupational Health and Safety. Safety managers are often responsible for training teams, conducting inspections, and writing safety policies. I like the idea of taking on that kind of responsibility, being someone others can trust, and helping build a positive work environment. I’ve always been someone who notices details, and I enjoy problem-solving, so I think I’d be good at spotting risks and finding solutions before problems arise.
Finally, I’m choosing this major because I want to be part of the movement toward healthier and more sustainable workplaces. As society becomes more aware of mental health, environmental issues, and long-term employee wellness, I believe the role of occupational safety professionals will only become more important. I want to be at the forefront of that change—making workplaces not just safer, but better for everyone.
In the end, I chose Occupational Health and Safety Management because it’s a major with purpose. It’s a career that combines my interests, values, and skills in a way that can truly help others. I’m excited to study this field in college, and I look forward to one day making a positive difference in the lives of workers and the companies they work for.