Strong Ambitions by Kendyl

Strong Ambitions by Kendyl - January 2018 Scholarship Essay

Aspiration is a ten-letter word I would use to describe my desire to attend college. Aspiration is defined as “a hope or ambition of achieving something”. I have an ardent desire of becoming a nurse and helping those around me. It is my time for me to give back to the community that has given me so much and helped me become the person I am today.

I’ve been touched by the innocence, grace, and bravery of all the children I’ve had the pleasure to meet through my volunteer work. I marvel at the resilience, acceptance and for the most part, the cheerful disposition of the children. These experiences have helped shape my belief that medication and treatments aren’t all that is needed as a remedy to a condition or illness; the care, tenderness and sometimes tough love they receive are just as important in the big picture. It is my belief that nursing is a lot more than just a way to make a living, it’s also about being able to tend to individuals, families, and communities; helping them maintain optimal health quality and recover from a multitude of challenges from birth to death.

During my life, I’ve been able to volunteer with a variety of organizations; one of my favorites is a local organization called TOP Soccer. The program was developed to help special needs children ages four to eighteen learn how to play soccer. I have played soccer for the past thirteen years and I thought this program would be a wonderful way to use something I have a passion for to help the community. The program operates in the spring and the fall. Volunteers are selected and paired with a child and then it is your job to make sure your partner enjoys their soccer experience, as well as learns how to play the game. It’s a heart-warming, every one of the children show their dedication even when it is difficult, and they want to quit. Every week I look forward to seeing the kids arrive to practice; excited with the biggest smile on their face. Many times, these children have a challenge expressing their emotions through words, but their actions tell you all you need to know, that is the affirmation needed to know how your actions are making a difference in their lives.

This past summer I had the opportunity to volunteer at Providence Hospital through their volunteer Summer Program. I was assigned to work in the Lab and oversaw the transportation of lab products, smooth operation of the test tubes, and often had special projects assigned to me. I feel that this experience opened a window for me, gave me a glimpse of the medical world. I enjoyed being in the hospital environment, and could see myself spending more time in that setting.

All these experiences have helped me come to the realization that I can and want to help people in a deeper and more meaningful way. The people I have met throughout my life inspire me everyday to achieve my goal of continuing my education in nursing.