Answering the Call to Care: Why I Chose Nursing by Nevaeh

Answering the Call to Care: Why I Chose Nursing by Nevaeh - April 2025 Scholarship Essay

Deciding to pursue a career in nursing is often influenced by personal experiences and interactions that highlight the profound impact nurses can have on individuals and families. For me, several pivotal experiences have guided my decision to become a nurse and choose a college/university that suits my career goals and expectations as the place to pursue this path. Growing up, I witnessed the dedication of my aunt, who I am close to and who works as a nurse. Her commitment to patient care and the compassion she showed inspired me deeply. Observing her interactions with patients and their families taught me the value of empathy and professionalism in healthcare.

When my grandfather was in a critical car accident that resulted in him being in a nursing home, our family spent time in hospitals making sure that he was getting the best care and was treated well. The nurses who cared for him were not only skilled professionals but also compassionate caregivers who provided emotional support during a challenging time. Their ability to communicate effectively, offer reassurance, and maintain a calm presence was invaluable to both my grandfather and our family. This experience taught me the importance of empathy and compassion in nursing, qualities that I strive to embody in my practice.
Helping my grandfather in his nursing home was another significant influence. The gratitude expressed by residents for even the smallest acts of kindness was incredibly rewarding for me. This experience reinforced my desire to pursue a career where I could make a tangible difference in people's lives. Nurses often acted as advocates for my grandfather, ensuring that his needs were met and that our family was informed about his condition and treatment options. Their role as intermediaries between doctors and patients highlighted the importance of clear communication and patient advocacy in healthcare. This aspect of nursing resonated with me, reinforcing my desire to be an advocate for patients and their families. Witnessing the impact of nurses on my family members profoundly influenced my decision to pursue a career in nursing. This experience provided me with a firsthand understanding of the essential role nurses play in healthcare and the positive difference they can make in the lives of patients and their families.

My academic journey has been centered around sciences, with courses in biology and anatomy that deepened my understanding of the human body. These studies have prepared me for the rigorous and complex curriculum of nursing and fueled my enthusiasm for nursing. The university I am searching for is big on the emphasis of clinical experience, and community involvement will equip me with the skills needed to excel in various healthcare settings. Additionally, I am most interested in a supportive and focused learning environment and access to cutting-edge resources, which make it an ideal place for my nursing education. In addition, the dedication and professionalism exhibited by the nurses left a lasting impression on me. They managed complex medical situations with competence and confidence, ensuring that my grandfather received the best possible care. Observing their commitment to patient well-being inspired me to pursue a career where I could similarly contribute to improving people's lives through dedicated service.

In conclusion, my journey toward becoming a nurse has been shaped by personal experiences, educational pursuits, and mentorship. These influences have not only solidified my decision but also fueled my passion for making a meaningful impact through nursing. I am looking for a college/university that provides the perfect platform to achieve these aspirations, offering both academic excellence and practical experience in healthcare. These experiences also contributed to my personal growth, teaching me resilience and the value of teamwork in healthcare settings. The collaborative efforts of nurses, doctors, and other healthcare professionals demonstrated the importance of working together to achieve common goals.