Gene Denton Essay 13

In my community, one of the biggest needs I see is better access to healthcare and health education. A lot of families around me work hard, sometimes multiple jobs, and still struggle to find time, money, or transportation to get consistent medical care. I have seen people wait until a problem becomes serious before going to the doctor because they are worried about the cost or unsure of where to go. I have also noticed that many people do not fully understand how to manage chronic conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure. These are not rare issues. They affect neighbors, relatives, and friends. When basic healthcare feels out of reach, it impacts everything else, including school, work, and overall quality of life. Another part of this need is health education. Many young people in my community do not grow up learning how to advocate for their own health. They may not understand how nutrition, mental health, and preventive care all connect. Without clear information and guidance, it is easy to fall into unhealthy habits that become harder to change later. I believe that access to care and access to knowledge go hand in hand. People deserve both. After high school, I plan to study nursing. I want to earn my Bachelor of Science in Nursing and become a registered nurse. Nursing stands out to me because it combines science, skill, and compassion. Nurses are often the people who spend the most time with patients. They explain procedures, answer questions, and provide comfort during stressful moments. They are not just treating a condition. They are caring for a whole person. My interest in nursing comes from seeing how powerful good care can be. When someone takes the time to listen and explain what is happening, it changes everything. It builds trust. It makes patients feel seen instead of rushed. I want to be that kind of nurse. I want to work in a setting where I can serve communities that are often overlooked, whether that is in a local hospital, a community clinic, or eventually in public health. My future education will give me the clinical knowledge and hands on training to address the healthcare gaps I see. Through nursing school, I will learn how to assess patients, recognize early warning signs, and respond quickly in emergencies. Just as important, I will learn how to educate patients about their conditions in a way that makes sense. That education piece is where I believe I can make a lasting impact. For example, if I work with patients who have chronic illnesses, I will not only focus on medication and treatment plans. I will also take time to talk about daily habits, warning signs, and available community resources. I want to help people feel confident managing their health instead of feeling overwhelmed by it. Small conversations can prevent bigger problems later. When people understand their bodies and their options, they are more likely to seek help early. In the long term, I hope to give back directly to my community. That could mean volunteering at free clinics, participating in health fairs, or helping organize workshops that focus on preventive care and mental health awareness. I also want to mentor younger students who are interested in healthcare careers. Representation matters. When young people see someone from their own community succeed in a professional field, it expands what they believe is possible.The need for accessible healthcare in my community is not abstract. It is personal and visible. It shows up in missed appointments, untreated conditions, and preventable emergencies. By pursuing a career in nursing, I am choosing a path that allows me to respond to that need in a practical and meaningful way. My education will equip me with the knowledge and skills to care for individuals, but my purpose goes beyond individual patients. I want to contribute to a healthier, more informed community where people feel supported, respected, and empowered to take control of their health.