Lauren Mattison Varsity Tutors Scholarship Essay by Lauren

Lauren Mattison Varsity Tutors Scholarship Essay by Lauren - January 2026 Scholarship Essay

My name is Lauren Mattison and I’m a nontraditional pre-nursing student. I have a unique background in that I started out premed and decided to pursue nursing after getting hands on clinical experience in an urgent care setting. I was fortunate enough to spend four years working under the scope of practice of nurse practitioners. Part of which formed my decision to pursue a career in nursing.

A moment I discovered a new strength in myself would be when I started my do-it-yourself postbaccalaureate journey. Initially, I had a general understanding of what it meant to practice discipline. I assumed because I’d already had a bachelor's degree, I learned the tools to be successful. However, my prior knowledge was tested. I learned how to study effectively and efficiently. I learned what it meant to balance work, school, and life. The balance in that some seasons require more energy in school and some more in work etc. Essentially, what matters is knowing when and where to put my energy.

Ultimately, my hard work paid off and continues to do so. I was able to significantly improve my GPA, make time for family and friends, as well as prioritize my health. I grew as a person because my postbaccalaureate experience has instilled a discipline within me that I can utilize in all areas of my life, not just school.