Alam Sharifi

I never understood the significance of nursing responsibilities until I was a medical sales representative. For one year, I worked closely with nurses and realized that they are literally the glue that holds everything together.

I decided to become a nurse because I wanted to be an advocate for patients. As a nurse, I will be able to work closely with patients, know their stories, and be able to provide better care.

Working with medical professionals also made me realize that patient care does not end when they leave; sometimes it requires many phone calls and paperwork, which can be challenging. As a nursing student, I have learned that nursing is about safety, compassion, sympathy, empathy and intuition. I know that I will face many obstacles as a student and a nurse but every day is a challenge that I am proudly willing to overcome. I am happy with the choices I have made, even if it involves staying up until 2 a.m. to prepare for my patient the next day, or the countless hours of studying and sleepless nights. I am excited to be a part of a team that is responsible for patients and their families.

The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF) has given me the opportunity to expand my knowledge and to practice what I have learned thus far. My scholarship has not only been a financial support but also has provided leadership skills as well as a chance to work within my community. I hope that when I begin my career as a nurse, I will have the opportunity to give back to my community by using the leadership skills that I have learned in school as an RWJF scholar.