Where is the "help" when you need it the most? by Sebastiao

Where is the "help" when you need it the most? by Sebastiao - February 2024 Scholarship Essay

In life, there are moments that stick with us, shaping our futures in unexpected ways. For me, it happened by my grandfather's hospital bed, sparking a sense of purpose. It was there that I realized my calling to pursue a career in pre-medicine and nursing.

I can still recall the smell of the hospital and the harsh glow of the fluorescent lights. My heart pounded as I entered my grandfather's room, seeing him lying weak and motionless on the bed. Tubes and wires surrounded him, connecting him to machines that seemed indifferent to his suffering.

Standing beside him, I felt helpless and alone. Where were the caregivers? Why was he left unattended? Questions swirled in my mind as I watched him struggle to breathe. In that moment, I understood that healthcare is more than just treating illnesses—it's about compassion and being present for those in need.

I made a silent promise to myself: I would be the support my grandfather deserved. I would dedicate myself to ensuring that no one felt abandoned in their time of need. And so, my journey into the world of medicine began.

Choosing pre-medicine and nursing wasn't just about a career for me; it was about honoring my grandfather's memory and making a positive impact. Through volunteer work, I learned about diseases and treatments, but also about the importance of empathy and connection in healing.

As a sophmore, that very school year after my grandpa passed away, I did everything I could when it came to volunteering at hospitals and clinics to gain practical experience. One encounter with an elderly patient particularly touched me. Simply holding her hand and listening to her stories brought her joy. It taught me that healing is about more than just fixing bodies, its about being another "ear", someone who can understand and appreciate the words of a patient.

As I continued, I grew. I started taking anatomy classes during my junior year of highschool while reading medical literature helping me find a new love for poetry as well. I even attended seminars, and found mentors who shared my passion. My grandfather's memory was always with me, in my heart. reminding me of the importance of not just healing, but being compassionate towards patients in healthcare.

Now, as I look ahead, I do so with a sense of purpose, because my path is not just a job—it's a calling to serve humanity with compassion and dignity just like all of the other kids who were in my position. Despite the challenges that I have heard ahead, I know that my grandfather's spirit guides me every single step of the way.

In the end, success isn't measured by awards, but by the lives we touch. I find this truly inspirational in honoring my grandfather's memory and embracing my role at a university choosing my major of pre-med and nursing. As a healer. And just for that alone, I am grateful.