Aspirations for this school year and motivation to achieve them by Kamille

Aspirations for this school year and motivation to achieve them by Kamille - August 2025 Scholarship Essay

In a few short weeks, as I begin my journey at Saint Mary’s College, one of my biggest aspirations for the upcoming school year is to immerse myself in the Belles Connect Scholars Program. I want to grow as a person, a future leader, and learn how to form relationships that will support me throughout college and beyond. Knowing that I have a community waiting to support me through this journey motivates me to hit the ground running on day one.

The Belles Connect Scholars Program is very important to me because of the mentorship and supportive community opportunities it offers. Having access to guidance from those who understand the college experience, especially as a first-year student, helps ease the uncertainty of starting something new. I know this network will be a source of encouragement, direction, and opportunity as I navigate both the classroom and clinical settings. In addition, as an introvert, I often struggle with introducing myself and making friends. I come from a big family. I’m one of six girls, so I’ve always had built-in best friends at home, which may have hindered my social skills. They have to like me, so I never really had to work at forming new connections. Now, as I enter this new chapter, I recognize the importance of stepping outside my comfort zone, and I believe this program can help me do that in a safe and supportive space. As a future nurse and nurse practitioner, it is imperative that I feel comfortable in peer interaction.

I’m excited for the chance to grow, not only as a student, but as a future nurse and an independent young woman. I know the transition to college can be challenging, but I’m ready to embrace it with confidence and an open mind. I’m looking forward to building strong academic habits, developing leadership skills, and forming meaningful connections with peers and mentors who will support me throughout this journey.

Academically, I am honored to be a member of both the National Honor Society and the National Technical Honor Society. Since freshman year, I’ve consistently earned High Honor Roll recognition, and I was named to the Principal’s Honor Roll during my junior year. My commitment to health science is reflected in my involvement with HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America), where I placed in the Top 10 for Medical Spelling and was recognized as the Health Science Outstanding Vocational Student. I also hold a Certificate of Technical Achievement for my dedication to career and technical education. In addition, I’ve earned my Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification, which is an accomplishment that has given me experience to a future in healthcare.

What motivates me most to succeed in college and within the nursing program is the unconditional support of my mother and stepfather, who are a special education teacher and veteran police officer, respectively, and are actively exploring every possible option to cover the remaining balance of my education. Despite our family's ineligibility for need-based scholarships and grants, they continue to do everything they can to help me achieve my goals. This financial designation does not accurately reflect the fact that we are a family of 6, with my stepfather shouldering the majority of the financial weight. My biological father has chosen not to contribute to the cost of my post-secondary education, which has only strengthened my determination to persevere and make the most of every opportunity I earn because I have learned that college and support are not a requirement, even from your parent, so I plan to continue to succeed at every level and continue to make my mother and stepfather proud.