Fall 2024 Scholarship Winner

Agatha Wysoczanski

Agatha’s essay is an inspiring story of a single mother trying to balance the tragedy of unexpectedly losing her partner while also pursuing a degree in nursing. We trust that this award will help to strengthen her already unshakeable resolve to never give up on her dreams, no matter how tough things get. We wish Agatha all the best in the future and are delighted to award her with one of the Fresh Start Scholarships.

Read Agatha’s Essay:

Embarking on the journey to obtain a college education is a profound step toward starting fresh, especially considering the intricate web of challenges I face as a single mother who lost her ex-partner to COVID-19. This pursuit holds the promise of not only transforming my personal and professional trajectory but also becoming a beacon of hope for my family

The financial circumstances that drive my quest for a scholarship are intricately entwined with the complexities of being a single mother striving to navigate nursing school while working in a nursing home. The unforeseen tragedy of losing my ex-partner has magnified the challenges, making it imperative for me to seek financial assistance to secure a stable future for my family. Balancing the demands of nursing school and the responsibilities of parenthood has proven emotionally and financially taxing. The commitment to education aligns with my career aspirations and the desire to create a better life for my family, yet the balancing act often requires sacrificing additional work hours, impacting my overall income.

The unexpected loss of my ex-partner has heightened the financial strain, making me the sole provider for our family. Coping with the emotional aftermath of this tragedy while juggling financial responsibilities intensifies the need for financial assistance. This scholarship represents more than just financial relief; it is a lifeline that can significantly alleviate the strain on my resources, ensuring access to educational essentials without compromising the quality of my education. Moreover, it would mitigate the need for additional loans or extensive part-time work, allowing me to invest more time and energy into my studies and family.

Beyond the financial aspect, this scholarship bears immense personal significance. It symbolizes recognition of the unique challenges faced as a single mother who has taken on the responsibility of providing for her family after the loss of a loved one. The support offered through this scholarship is not merely a gesture of financial aid; it is an acknowledgment of resilience, determination, and the pursuit of a better future against all odds.

Obtaining a college education is pivotal in my journey to start fresh. Education is the catalyst for personal and professional growth, opening doors to opportunities that would otherwise remain out of reach. It equips me with the skills and knowledge necessary to embark on a fulfilling career in nursing, not only providing financial stability but also allowing me to contribute meaningfully to the well-being of others.

Starting fresh, in this context, means breaking free from the limitations imposed by my current circumstances. Education becomes the tool with which I can reshape my destiny, transforming tragedy into triumph. It is an investment in my ability to overcome challenges, both personal and financial, and emerge stronger on the other side.

The benefits of starting fresh through obtaining a college education extend beyond individual empowerment. A college degree enhances my employability, ensuring that I can secure a stable and rewarding career in the field of nursing. This, in turn, translates into financial security for my family, breaking the cycle of financial strain that has persisted since the loss of my ex-partner.

However, like any transformative journey, there are potential drawbacks. The pursuit of a college education requires significant time and energy, which may affect the time I can dedicate to immediate family needs. The delicate balance between academics, work, and parenthood may pose challenges, necessitating careful time management and a robust support system.

Additionally, there may be financial implications even with the assistance of a scholarship. While the scholarship alleviates a considerable burden, it may not cover all expenses, leading to the need for careful budgeting and potentially additional sources of financial support.

In conclusion, obtaining a college education is not just a means to an end; it is a pathway to starting fresh, overcoming challenges, and creating a brighter future for myself and my family. It offers the chance to honor the memory of my ex-partner through perseverance and achievement, turning tragedy into triumph. While there are challenges along the way, the potential benefits far outweigh the drawbacks. With the assistance of this scholarship, I am poised to navigate this transformative journey with renewed focus and dedication, ensuring that starting fresh becomes a reality that reverberates positively throughout my life and the lives of those I care for. Thank you.