Ten Years From Now by Julia

Ten Years From Now by Julia - March 2025 Scholarship Essay

Life is a series of joys and sorrows with the benefits of profoundly learning from both. I was unfortunately affected by the experience of losing my beloved grandfather, “abuelo” to Alzheimer's disease last year. With much sadness, I witnessed this condition's relentless advancement and its toll on our family over the past five years. Through my grandfather’s illness, I not only found the inspiration to pursue nursing as a college major but also gained a deep appreciation for my Hispanic upbringing and for my grandfather's strong work ethic and selfless dedication to his family.
When I hear the word nursing, I immediately think of advocacy, empathy, perseverance, and leadership. There is a sense of fulfillment in being able to spend time with patients and provide comfort during the most vulnerable and lonely point in their lives. In my upbringing along with experiences at The College of New Jersey as a nursing student and a member of the field hockey team, I learned to never give up and pursue my passions despite any obstacles. Nursing, academics, competitive sports, and cultural values overlap in many ways, all emphasizing the importance of teamwork and selflessness.
Witnessing my grandfather's decline was heart-wrenching, as his memories faded, his personality changed, and his ability to perform even the simplest tasks became impossible. Amid the despair, I found that I could live my life in a way that would honor his immigration to the United States along with his legacy. As I watched the care and compassion given to him by healthcare professionals, I felt a profound calling toward nursing. The healthcare workers that helped my grandfather showed such dedication, patience, and empathy, that resonated deeply with me. I would like to make a positive impact on the lives of individuals and families facing health challenges, as I witnessed so many who came to the aid of my beloved grandfather.
My family and I have personally faced a few financial struggles, especially in the last four years. My grandfather’s hard earned savings were quickly depleted due to his illness. Much of the financial burden fell on my parents. This hardship has made affording college extremely difficult. This scholarship will absolutely help me afford college and reach for my academic and career goals.
Upon graduating from college with a nursing degree, my future aspirations involve working at a hospital to gain valuable experience and make a positive impact on those in need. My ultimate goal is to specialize in geriatric care, focusing on providing top-notch care for the elderly. I am determined to further my education by pursuing a master's degree in nursing to become a nurse practitioner. This will grant me more independence in my practice and allow me to have a greater influence on the health and well-being of my patients. I am thrilled about the opportunities that lie ahead in my nursing career and eagerly anticipate the chance to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.