I am really excited to explore my academic and intellectual interests in Drexel University as a nursing major. I look forward to learning alongside other dedicated students. I will join organizations of like-minded students who are pursuing careers in the medical field. I will take advantage of volunteer opportunities as well, so I may work alongside and learn from those experienced in nursing.​

Nursing became my major of choice after my mom was sick with a heart condition, and I took care of her at home for almost two years. I have talked to many nurses in the hospital and got some information about their job responsibilities, various requirements, and related jobs in the field. Ever since caring for her I realized that I enjoyed helping people, especially nursing them. Caring for my mom included helping her take a shower, eat, take medication, and more.  I thought, “this is the job for me, nothing can be  better than being a nurse.” I have talked to many nurses in the hospital and got some information about their job responsibilities, various requirements, and related jobs in the field. When I watched them in the hospital, they were very nice, kind and always helped patients no matter how pleasant or unpleasant those patients were. I realized that, as a nurse, I could have the same feeling of satisfaction working with other patients as I did when I cared for my mother. 

It means a lot to me receiving this scholarship is a big achievement for me. I would love to thank those people who have chosen me for this award. Thank you for giving this to me directly, not to the school. Its good that I will receive it earlier and it can be used for my books, transportation and many other things.

​​​- Washika Tanah (Excerpts from personal statement)

Nathaniel M. Kirkland Scholar: Washika Tanah

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