Towards Compassion in 2023 by Shayla

Towards Compassion in 2023 by Shayla - December 2022 Scholarship Essay

Working at my dad’s dental office over the summer, I encountered many low income patients in immense pain. Many suffered from gum disease, and their teeth required root canals and crowns to be saved. Seeing them ask for help was very discouraging because they lacked the money to undergo the harsh dental procedure. A big problem in America is the lack of universal healthcare. After witnessing people with poor health being denied care because they lack coverage, I became fixated on combating America’s healthcare issue. I organized a free dental clinic with Tzu Chi Medical Institute on May 1, 2022. I worked with Dr. Phan, a friend of my dad, to gather volunteers and set up the clinic at an elementary school. Dentists volunteered to provide free dental care to those in need. From cleaning to surgery, the dentists addressed every patient's needs. Other volunteers like me assisted dentists, cleaned chairs, set up equipment, and checked in patients. We helped over 100 low-income people. My heart swelled as I noticed patients’ broad smiles of appreciation. Not only did I learn the rigorous work dentists and healthcare professionals undergo, but I learned the great value of health to everyone. As patients waited to be worked on, we carried out the essential task of educating them on maintaining their health. We discussed the importance of brushing, flossing, and yearly cleanings. Now educated, the patients left the clinic relieved of their pain and with the knowledge to prevent it from occurring again. In addition, I learned the vital role compassion and empathy played to make patients comfortable and how much empathy is returned. These desperate people were so grateful that they sent notes of appreciation to my father. It was so rewarding to know that I had a positive impact on people’s lives. I have continued this mentality at school through the National Honors Society, helping the less fortunate. I will continue to prioritize education and empathy as a nurse to connect further with patients. This wonderful opportunity cemented my goal to become a nurse practitioner so that I can change lives and the healthcare world.
The lessons about compassion I was taught at the clinic will carry with me to the end of my senior year in 2023. As the National Honors Society (NHS) treasurer, I coordinate monthly community service events for other NHS members. The free dental clinic was just one of the many service events I planned. We also assembled care packages for the homeless, made toys for dog shelters, served elementary school festivals, and more. By sending cards to the elderly, we put smiles on their faces and gave the elders the love and appreciation they longed for. At the Hope Means Nevada Walk and Talk, NHS members walked holding signs to raise awareness about suicide prevention to combat the stigma around mental health. I will hold a Making Strides cancer walk where we celebrate cancer patients and doctors. As they walk, volunteers like me will cheer on the patients and give them something to smile about. We hope to raise funds for cancer research and, more importantly, celebrate patients’ bravery. I desire to make the 2023 year for NHS one with the most direct impact on the community. I plan to host more events that require traveling to the shelter or site. That way, volunteers can see and believe in the great positivity they put out. Every public service knits the community closer as each demonstrates that we are all there to support one another. A closer, empathetic community brings harmony and peace to the world.
My goal in 2023 is to attend college with a determined mind of getting into the nursing program. I will seek clubs, college games, and other special opportunities to make the most of my college experience. The confidence I have gained from leading events in 2022 push my goal to be less shy in a new environment. My goal is to participate in lectures and reach out to professors and students. I will continue to work hard in college, so I can meet the requirements to enroll in the nursing program. In the future, I will continue to educate patients and increase compassion as a nurse practitioner. Everyday, I will nurture patients. I plan to open my own medical practice to ensure quality care. Physical, mental, and emotional health will be factored into our care as we emphasize educating patients on the importance of maintaining their health. We will encourage strong patient-to-provider relationships, creating an environment where patients will be comfortable and open up so doctors and nurses can cater to their health. Furthermore, my medical practice will teach healthy habits, so patients can learn the behaviors necessary to keeping prosperous health, hopefully preventing them from a costly emergency visit and achieving a long life. In addition, my goal is to go on a mission to an underdeveloped country and provide healthcare services to them. I would not only get additional experience as a nurse, but I would also increase my empathy as I understand underrepresented lives. Even in college, I intend to join community service clubs, specifically nursing association clubs, to help others. The year 2022 taught me how important knowledge and care are in the divided world. As 2023 approaches, I hope to pay my kindness and knowledge forward.