From Bedside Stories to Bedside Care by Molly

From Bedside Stories to Bedside Care by Molly - April 2025 Scholarship Essay

“Once upon a time…” Four words I eagerly awaited when my dad tucked me in every night. His voice carried me to far away lands and different eras in time. These bedtime stories, filling me with bewilderment and curiosity, sparked my love for stories.
Most teenagers look forward to Fridays because they’re filled with fun, freedom, and a break from school. However, I look forward to Fridays because that’s the day I volunteer at the nursing home where I call bingo games (a fun way to spend any afternoon) and shadow the nurses (a valuable way for me to learn about my dream job). There I’m surrounded by people who’ve lived lives full of experiences, and wisdom that anyone can gain from. I’m a firm believer that everyone has a story that’s worth hearing.
My favorite resident, and now good friend, is a spirited one-hundred-year-old named Angie. The first thing I noticed when I met her was her bright blue eyes that I could tell concealed many untold stories. As I was setting up bingo one afternoon, Frank Sinatra playing in the background, Angie asked me, “Did you know I saw him live?” She continued to tell me she was a rebellious child and skipped school, taking the subways of New York to go see Sinatra. Her voice rang with excitement as she described the feeling of seeing him standing just a few feet away. As she spoke, I was transported to New York in the 40s and could feel the anticipation of the people lining up to meet him. I could also see young Angie’s eyes filled with wonder. Her smile while telling this story will be ingrained in my mind forever. Her story was more than just a memory, but a moment that connected the past with the present, reminding me of the powers of human connection. Listening to Angie and other residents has shown me that nursing isn’t just about administering medicine and treating people's wounds but taking to heart the stories we all have to share.
Now, my goal as a nurse is being someone who turns a not so great day into a better one, like early one evening, the golden light of the sun peeking through the nursing home windows, I started rounds with the nurse I was shadowing. We came across another of my friends, a resident named Marita. Marita holds a very special place in my heart because what little family she has lives far away and cannot come to visit often. I watched the nurse comfort Marita, sitting with her, reassuring her that her family would visit soon. This delicate moment exhibited the true meaning of nursing to me which is a profession that’s core is human connection and empathy.
By shadowing the nurses I’ve been able to see the true heartfelt impact they have on the residents and their lives. Every word and gesture is rooted in patience and care, their actions go beyond the basics of nursing. I’m truly inspired by their dedication and comforting presence. Volunteering at the nursing home, I‘ve learned patience, empathy, and the crucial skill of simply listening.
In nursing, I don’t see just a career, but a chance to honor the stories that people have to tell and hopefully be a part of that story. I’m ready to take on any challenge and rewards that come with nursing. Through every patient relationship, I see myself making a difference one smile and story at a time. My experience at the nursing home has shown me that in nursing, the connections and smiles we inspire are the foundation that nursing is built on. I’m eager to bring light and joy to those who need it, and committed to using my kindness, dedication, and passion to make a positive impact.