I’m reapplying to college to continue my education at a community college in the fall. It is by far less expensive than the college I was at before and I’m sort of excited about classes, but more excited about the fact that it brings me one step closer to my dream of being a nurse. In the process of getting ready, I have recently written an essay for a scholarship about my current goals. I thought that I would post it here for others to read.
“Painful as it may be, a significant event can be the catalyst for choosing a direction that serves us more effectively. Look for the learning.”
– Eric Allenbaugh
I wasn’t expecting the pain that changed my life, my dreams, and my hopes, but looking back, I can appreciate it. September 28, 2008, I was sitting at a desk and stood up and experienced pain in my elbow. This started a journey that continues today as severe chronic pain syndrome that I have to live with every day.
Though it would be easy to give in to the pain, I refuse, instead allowing it to act as a catalyst to propel me forward in life. Growing up, I changed my dream job many times, but never did I dream that I would be in nursing school. Yet, I have applied to and been accepted into the pre-nursing program at a local community college. I have a dream to someday work as a nurse in doing research, in a chronic pain rehabilitation center, or in a pain management doctor’s office.
The dream began as I met nurses throughout my treatment for my pain. Nurses cared for me, helped me, encouraged me, and told me to press on in spite of the pain. It was the nurses who changed my life and I realized that I had a passion to pass on the care that they gave me. I have always loved science and began to enjoy researching all aspects of pain management.
Would I choose the pain that has changed my life? Not at all! But I do allow it to continue to motivate me to continue on the path where it has put me. I dream of one day changing the lives of patients, just as the nurses I have met on my journey have changed my own life. College is the place where I will learn the skills I need to make this dream a reality.
Inspiring post, Amber! Good on you for your acceptance into the program and thank you for reminding me how important our goals still are!! 🙂
Well done Pam. Your turning something negative into something very positive and loving.