Meet Samantha S. (she/her), a Colgate-Palmolive Scholar who is pursuing a degree in Nursing at Concordia St. Paul University.

What is your dream?

My dream is to receive my bachelor’s degree in nursing and become a fluent bilingual registered nurse. I plan to work in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, as I enjoy the high pace and learning opportunities in this environment.

I have always wanted to be part of a larger-than-life community and in a position where I can continue to learn — even without being in a school environment. I aspire to work in outreach programs around my community to provide free health services, as well. I want to provide for my community and be a resource for others who share similar backgrounds as me. This would allow me to share my experiences and knowledge to become a leader for myself in my personal life, education, my community, and through my work in the field.

I made an oath to my community, family, and to my younger self that I wouldn’t leave where I came from, but that I would take where I came from everywhere I go — and it has never failed me.

Please share how you feel about the win and what impact it will have on your career.

Receiving this scholarship has been an honor, as I am proud to represent my community and family as they are an extension of me. This has been a reminder that I am capable to achieve my dreams.

As I am surrounded by unfamiliarity and the unknown, I create a new foundation and path for others to follow and learn just as I once did. I owe this winning to my culture that has shown me so much about myself and continues to keep me grounded as I continue my education and beyond.

What advice do you have for other women reaching for their dreams?

Never doubt yourself or your potential. Reach your dreams and never stop — even if it means taking baby steps to get to those goals. Surround yourself with love and with others who share aspirations and goals, as well.

Do not forget to nurture other parts of your life like relationships, hobbies, and experiences as you push through to reach the goal. All these aspects will also help you become a well-rounded person and give you much more value as work towards your dreams.

As you begin your journey, understand that this will teach you so much about yourself. The journey can be lonely and hard, but it has the greatest impact on your life and can become such a pivotal moment in helping you continue to achieve your dreams.