Jennifer Lynn Hovis, CST

Rocheport, MO

Moberly Area Community College

$2,500 Foundation Scholarship

Surgical technology has become more than just a career choice for me—it’s a calling. From my very first clinical rotation, I knew I had found my place in the operating room. The precision, the intensity, and most importantly, the teamwork all drew me in. Even during challenging or high-pressure cases, I find myself energized by the opportunity to support talented medical professionals and be a part of something that truly changes lives.

I am particularly drawn to cardiothoracic, neurosurgery, orthopedics, and plastic surgery. These specialties are fast-paced, highly detailed, and require a deep understanding of both the technical and human sides of patient care. I enjoy the complex setups, the cadence of the procedures, and the visible impact these surgeries have on improving a patient’s quality of life. Of course, all surgical specialties hold value, but I find these especially rewarding and exciting to be a part of.

Throughout my residency and clinical experiences, I’ve learned that every case is someone's most important day. Whether it’s a CABG, laminectomy, or a C-section, I approach each procedure with intention and respect. I am the sterile safety net of the OR, and I take pride in doing my best so my team can perform theirs—ensuring the best possible outcome for the patient. It’s easy to slip into the “just another day at work” mindset in any career, but in surgery, I’m constantly reminded that we’re making a real, lasting difference.

After graduation, I will be relocating to Denver, Colorado, where I plan to continue gaining knowledge and experience in a wide range of surgical specialties. Long-term, I aspire to be active in Colorado’s state assembly for surgical technology, mentor students, and serve as a preceptor who offers both structure and compassion in the OR. I’ve been fortunate to learn from incredible educators and preceptors, and I hope to pay that forward by supporting and guiding the next generation.

Being a surgical technology student can feel like trying to drink from a fire hose. I’m incredibly grateful for the support I’ve received from my instructors, residency team, the AST, and the Foundation for Surgical Technology. This scholarship lightens the financial burden and reinforces that I’m on the right path. Thank you for recognizing my passion and commitment—I’m honored to be a part of such a meaningful and impactful profession.

Grace Glass, CST

Taunton, MA

Quincy College

$1,500 Foundation Scholarship

When I first heard of surgical technologists, I started researching schools right away. I have always had a deep interest in human anatomy and its inner workings. One of the most rewarding parts of this career is getting to witness human anatomy firsthand. On my first day in the operating room, my eyes were wide with wonder, and it became apparent I was meant for this. One thing I truly love about this job is knowing there will always be something new to learn. My favorite procedures are the ones I have not done before as it forces me to take the necessary steps to become a better surgical technologist. Beyond the technical side, I enjoy interacting with people from all walks of life, whether that be my coworkers or patients. Being in the OR makes me feel capable, trusted, and part of something bigger than myself.

I am proud to continue a family legacy by beginning my career at the same local hospital where my parents once worked and met, and where my grandmother’s service as a candy striper marked the start of her nursing career. My current goal is to gain hands-on experience, build confidence in the OR, and broaden my knowledge. Looking ahead, I plan to expand my scope of practice, whether that means pursuing CSFA, exploring leadership roles through my AST state assembly or teaching future surgical technologists. I want to grow in this field and make a long-term impact. I hope to inform and encourage others to follow this career path because if someone had not done that for me, I wouldn’t have found my dream job.

I am honored to have received the Foundation for Surgical Technology Scholarship; I am especially grateful to all those who made this scholarship possible. Receiving this scholarship reinforces that I’m on the right path. It provides not only financial support but also encouragement to continue working hard and pushing forward. I’m proud to represent the next generation of surgical technologists and thankful to the Foundation for supporting my journey.

Zoe Calabrese

Kannapolis, NC

Cabarrus College of Health Science

$1,000 Foundation Scholarship

I am honored and thankful to be a 2025 recipient of a $1,000 scholarship sponsored by the Foundation of Surgical Technology. Surgical technology has been a rewarding program, teaching the importance of sterility and safe surgical practice in the operating room. I chose a career in surgical technology because it offers continuous learning opportunities with exposure to clinical anomalies and their management methods. The various challenges and breakthroughs in my academic journey serve as motivation for my future aspirations as a surgical technologist.

My experience in surgical technology has allowed me to learn continuously, from colleagues and clinical settings. As the career field evolves, I am committed to growing alongside it, embracing innovation and best practices. Surgery can be an overwhelming experience for patients, and I strive to create positive surgical outcomes through maintaining a safe, sterile environment and prioritizing their well-being.

In my career, I aspire to obtain further knowledge and specialize in orthopedic procedures. Orthopedic procedures can often require challenging instrument setups and are a high-risk area for SSI contraction. At the start of my clinical rotations, orthopedic cases posed significant challenges that required fast and effective anticipation. Without appropriate experience or guidance, these cases can quickly become overwhelming. As a CST, my goal is to become a mentor in this field and help students in surgical technology programs navigate the challenges an orthopedic procedure can present.

Investing in students presents ample opportunities to create a skill set that enhances a standard of care. Mentorships, financial aid, and community groups provide resources that can build confidence and professionalism in the future workforce. I hope to sustain the generosity I’ve received from the committee by offering guidance and sharing my experience with future students in this program. Thank you once again for your consideration and the generous opportunities provided by your foundation to continue my academic pursuits!

Doris Lopez Allende

Chicago, IL

Malcolm X City College of Chicago

$2,500 Foundation Scholarship       

My decision to pursue a career in surgical technology stems from a strong desire to serve others and a deep respect for healthcare professionals who change lives every day (mine included). From an early age, I experienced firsthand the importance of access to medical care, often relying on the generosity of others. Those experiences shaped my values and inspired me to give back through a profession that requires compassion, and teamwork.

I chose surgical technology because it aligns with what I seek in a career. With its constant innovations, dynamic environment, and the opportunity to contribute meaningfully as part of a team, I find myself particularly drawn to it. The operating room demands focus, adaptability, and trust, and I find that challenge both thrilling and fulfilling. What matters most to me is the outcome of knowing that my role helps ensure patients receive the best care possible, which is where my greatest sense of purpose lies.

Now that I am in my second semester of a CST program, I am even more confident that I’ve found the right path. I enjoy learning new techniques, understanding surgical procedures in depth, and working alongside professionals who are passionate about patient care. Along the way, I’ve learned so much from mentors who have guided and inspired me. Most notably my professor, Axel Rodriguez. His encouragement pushed me to pursue opportunities like this scholarship and helped shape my long-term goals, including a future role in education.

In the future, I hope to participate in medical mission trips through AST, and volunteer with organizations that support underserved communities. I am especially motivated to give back to programs that once helped me. I believe my background has given me qualities and traits that I can only hope impact others positively.

Receiving this scholarship is a meaningful milestone in my journey. It reinforces my commitment to this field and motivates me to keep pushing forward.

Thank you to the Foundation for Surgical Technology.

Allyson Guden

Marshfield, WI

Mid State Technical College

$2,000 Foundation Scholarship

My passion for surgical technology began while working as a Certified Nursing Assistant in the pre-op and post-op areas of an outpatient surgery center in my hometown. There, I witnessed how the surgical team worked together to care for patients with skill, focus, and compassion. Being part of that environment made me realize I wanted to take a more active role in the operating room.

What draws me to surgical technology is the responsibility, precision, and teamwork it requires. I enjoy being detail-oriented and dependable, and I’m excited to build hands-on skills that directly support patient care. I look forward to learning sterile techniques, how to handle surgical instruments, and how to assist during procedures. My goal is to become a skilled surgical technologist and, eventually, take on even more responsibility, possibly as a first assistant or by specializing in areas like plastic surgery, general surgery, or OBGYN.

Though school hasn’t always been easy, I’ve stayed focused and motivated. I know that grades reflect effort, and I’ve always worked hard to do well. I also believe in learning from challenges and using them to grow stronger.

Receiving this scholarship means the world to me. It will ease the financial burden of school and allow me to focus more on learning and preparing for my future in the operating room. I plan to stay involved in my state’s surgical technology community, attend trainings, and keep growing in this career.

Thank you for your support—it brings me closer to reaching my goals and helping others through surgical care.

Caitlin Sturman

Beaverton, OR

Concorde Career College

$2,000 Foundation Scholarship

My name is Caitlin Sturman, as a recipient of this year’s scholarship award I am truly grateful for this opportunity to help assist me in pursuing a surgical technology career starting this fall. Ever since I was a little girl I have been fascinated by medicine. I grew up in Alaska, where very few surgeries were performed. Anyone I knew that was having surgery normally flew out of state to somewhere like Seattle or Texas but spent hours watching shows on Discovery Health such as Trauma; Stories of the ER, Mystery Diagnosis, Medical Miracles at age 5-6, and into my teen years with a passion for learning about medicine. I never quite knew where I would fit into the OR role. I explored careers within imaging, nursing and the lab yet none felt like the perfect fit, yet every time I circled back around to some career in the OR I felt this yearning and instinct that I was meant to be there. I found love for the surgical technology role whilst at my last position before going back to school as a Medical Assistant working alongside Pediatric Surgeons in the clinic and expressed my interest in surgery and was given opportunities to shadow them in the OR. I got to see firsthand the meticulous routine that went into each and every surgery, and saw that while I may not want to be the one responsible for making life altering medical decisions as a lead physician within the OR, I realized I wanted to be the one assisting those making those decisions, by making sure everything was in order for those physicians to be able to make such important decisions. While also getting the chance to be alongside learning all about the intricacies within the human body and the procedures being performed to help save a life. One of my biggest goals is to be able to complete my internship and training at the facility in which I first discovered the love for surgery and be granted the opportunity to help assist the same providers from the Pediatric Surgical Center where I had been their Medical Assistant for three years prior to returning to school. I look forward to all the unique cases and experiences I will encounter and all the information I will gain in learning the routine of each individual provider, specialty and routine surgeries, with the hopes to one day be a traveling Surgical Technician as well and always be furthering my education and growth within the career while also getting to travel the world. Thank you again for this amazing opportunity, in the ways it helps me to fulfill a lifelong dream. 

Stacy Iannarone, CST

Lisle, IL

Triton College

$1,500 Foundation Scholarship

It is an honor to be recognized by the Foundation for Surgical Technology, and receive a scholarship that represents hard work, dedication and perseverance. After my mother and sister passed away from terminal illnesses, it prompted me to put life into perspective. I aspired to extend the kind of compassion they obtained during treatment, especially in moments of uncertainty and vulnerability. Upon reflection and extensive research, surgical technology resonated on multiple levels, which resulted in a shift from a career in marketing to healthcare.

Transitioning professions proved to be a pivotal turning point. From the beginning, I was drawn to the principles of precision, discipline, and efficiency, and yearned to be part of a team who maintained high standards, reinforced safety measures, via aseptic technique, and upheld standard practices. An essential aspect of being in the OR is the sense of unity, characterized by effective interpersonal communication, precision, adaptability and a shared responsibility to deliver successful patient outcomes. I find fulfillment in the structure, pace, and demand for excellence.

This scholarship will help lighten financial responsibilities, as well as enable the opportunity to build on my current skillset, provide mentorship and dedicate time to meaningful volunteer initiatives. I thank my husband, family, close friends and mentors who encouraged me through such a transformative journey -- from long nights of studying, busy days at clinicals and working during the weekends, their support made this achievement possible.

I look forward to giving back to what has blessed me with purpose and will offer the same benevolence my family received. Lastly, I hope my path to rediscovery illustrates that sometimes loss can transcend into a beautiful rebirth, ultimately, making a positive future impact for others. 

Alisha Budhu

New Rochelle, NY

New York University

$1,000 Foundation Scholarship

From the first time I entered an operating room as an EMT observing a high-acuity trauma case, I felt an undeniable pull toward surgical technology. That intense yet focused environment—the life-and-death stakes, the dynamic teamwork, the precision—ignited a passion I hadn’t known existed. Choosing surgical technology wasn’t a whim; it was a deliberate decision informed by a deep appreciation for both the art and science of patient care.

My journey began amid the chaos of trauma calls, where I learned to think–fast, stay composed, and act decisively. After entering NYU’s Surgical Technology program, I had the opportunity to assist in a variety of operative cases—general, orthopedics, neuro, and minimally invasive surgeries. Each rotated environment taught me how essential preparation, attention to detail, and sterile technique are to patient safety and surgical efficiency. My instructors and preceptors commended my ability to anticipate instruments and maintain seamless workflow—even under pressure. Being a surgical technologist isn’t just about passing tools; it’s about fostering a partnership of trust with the surgeon, anesthesia team, and nurses.

What I enjoy most about working in the OR is the synergy among all team members. There’s a powerful harmony in knowing everyone has been trained to operate at peak performance—yet also trusts others to do the same. Over time, I’ve found gratification in quietly ensuring the operative field is clear, the instruments are sterile and ready, and that I can step in without hesitation, ever ready to support the patient’s outcome. One case springs to mind: during an unexpected hemorrhage in a trauma laparoscopy, I pre-loaded suction and clips before the surgeon completed the instruction—helping reduce the bleeding quickly and stabilize the patient. Moments like that underscore how surgical technologists truly make a difference at calculated critical junctures.

Being awarded the AST Scholarship would help me attain certification faster and elevate my skills. Looking toward the future, I aspire to work in level‑1 trauma centers and continuously refine my clinical judgment in high‑acuity environments. Long term, I envision stepping into advanced perioperative roles—perhaps in surgical education or leadership—where I can mentor future technologists and promote best practices. I am deeply committed to advancing the profession and elevating standards for patient safety and surgical efficiency.

Receiving support from AST would be more than financial assistance—it would signal faith in my ambition to not only excel as a technologist but to shape the future of surgical care. I hope to embody the AST ideals of professionalism, lifelong learning, and advocacy, while contributing meaningfully to a culture of excellence in every operating room I serve.

Kimberly Sterling

Bronx, NY

Swedish Institute

$1,500 Foundation Scholarship

My journey into surgical technology is rooted in personal experience. As someone who was diagnosed with scoliosis at a young age, I spent much of my childhood in doctors’ offices, observing how healthcare professionals could completely transform a patient’s quality of life. That experience not only made me resilient, but it also gave me a clear purpose: to be part of the surgical team that brings hope, healing, and relief to others.

Currently, I am a Surgical Technology student at the Swedish Institute College of Health Sciences. Every lecture, lab, and hands-on skill session confirms that I’ve chosen the right path. While I have not yet entered clinical rotations, I am fully immersed in learning the principles of sterile technique, instrumentation, and surgical procedures. I am passionate about the discipline, responsibility, and teamwork required in the operating room, and I am eager to apply my knowledge in real-life scenarios when the time comes.

Receiving this scholarship is an incredible honor and motivation. It reaffirms that my hard work, long nights of studying, and commitment to this field have purpose. It also reminds me that I am part of a broader community of surgical technologists who value precision, empathy, and excellence. Furthermore, this scholarship is not just a financial relief, it’s a symbol of encouragement and belief in my potential. It tells me that I belong in this field, and that I have something valuable to offer. I am sincerely grateful for this support, which brings me one step closer to my ultimate dream of becoming an orthopedic surgeon. I want to be the kind of healthcare provider who helps patients not just heal but feel hopeful.

Looking ahead, my long-term goal is to become an orthopedic surgeon. I want to help patients with conditions like mine feel seen, understood, and empowered through surgical care. This scholarship helps me stay focused on that path and continue my education with greater confidence.

Thank you to the Foundation for Surgical Technology for this opportunity. I am truly honored to be recognized, and I look forward to the day I can give back to the field that has already given me so much.

Natali Ciccone

Powder Springs, GA

Chattahoochee Technical College

$2,000 Foundation Scholarship

I am honored to have been selected for the Foundation for Surgical Technology Scholarship, and I want to share why I chose surgical technology as my career and where I hope this path will lead me.

My interest in surgery started long before I ever stepped into an operating room. Growing up, I was always fascinated by the medical field and the idea that skilled hands and teamwork could help people heal and give them a second chance at life. Early on, I worked in veterinary offices, and assisting during animal surgeries quickly became my favorite part of the job. It was there that I realized how much I loved the environment of the operating room; the precision, the organization, and the sense of purpose that comes with helping patients, even if they couldn’t thank me themselves.

That experience inspired me to pursue surgical technology so I could be part of a surgical team dedicated to patient care. I hold an Associate of Applied Science in Biology, and soon I will also hold an Associate of Applied Science in Surgical Technology. I am honored to be a member of the Association of Surgical Technologists and have continued to push myself to learn, adapt, and grow in this field every day. I love that in the OR, no two days are exactly alike, and every procedure is a chance to learn something new and become even better at what I do.

Looking ahead, my goal is to work in a hospital where I can be part of a team that makes a real difference, whether that’s in neurosurgery, orthopedics, or pediatric surgery. I’m especially drawn to places like the Shepherd Center, Kennestone Hospital, or the VA Hospital, where I can help vulnerable patients and give back to those who have served our country. My ultimate aspiration is to continue my education and become a first assistant, so I can take an even bigger role in the operating room and support surgeons and patients to the best of my ability.

I am proud to be part of a profession that demands skill, compassion, and constant learning. I am truly grateful for this scholarship, which will help me focus fully on my education so I can achieve my goals and make a difference in the lives of the patients I serve.

Thank you so much for supporting my journey.

Matov Rodriguez

Farmers Branch, TX

The College of Health Care Professions

$1,000 Texas State Assembly Scholarship

The reason I chose to become a surgical technologist is the unique and rewarding experience that healthcare provides. A surgical technologist is not just a helper or an instrument passer, there is more to the field that makes it unique in its way. The curiosity in me always wants to learn more and experience more. I have an exceptional career that not everyone can experience.

My aspiration for the future is to continue my education as a Certified Surgical First Assistant. Continuing my education will motivate me to take on greater responsibility in the operating room and play a more direct role. This field requires precision, focus, and dedication, and as a future certified surgical assistant, I am ready for any challenge that comes my way. I am dedicated to becoming the best I can be. Another aspiration for my future is to be able to teach a future surgical technologist, we all have learned from someone, and still are learning, I hope I can help any student that comes my way to also succeed with their careers, for many this can be a step to something bigger.

The best part of being a surgical technologist is having an important role in surgery. Society may never see what we do in the operating room but the field functions with us, and around us, that is the most rewarding, empowering task to be able to do. The thing I enjoy about working in surgery is the ability to learn about the human body. As a very curious person, surgery gives me the biggest thrill, it motivates me to do better at what I do.  Surgery, and being a surgical technologist is the biggest privilege, and I am grateful for being a huge part of it. I stepped into a career I never would imagine being a part of, but I am proud of myself. On to bigger things.

David Kimani

Princeton, TX

The College of Healthcare Professions

$1,000 Texas State Assembly Scholarship

Personal Statement: My Choice for CST Program

Choosing surgical technology as my career path has been a deeply fulfilling decision rooted in a family-oriented set up. My wife, who is a registered nurse, has been a close sensational to me. Witnessing the dedication and the profound impact she has on patients' lives inspired me to pursue a role where I can contribute meaningfully. Surgical technology stood out as a perfect blend of hands-on involvement, technical skill, and patient care.

My aspiration for the future is to become a certified surgical technologist, specializing in minimally invasive procedures. I believe that advancements in technology are revolutionizing surgery, and I want to be at the forefront of this change. By acquiring further certifications and training, I hope to enhance my skills and knowledge, allowing me to assist in complex surgeries with precision and confidence. Ultimately, I aim to educate aspiring surgical technologists, fostering a new generation of dedicated professionals in this field.

Moreover, my experiences in surgical technology have taught me the importance of adaptability and attention to detail. In the operating room, every second counts, and I take pride in my ability to remain calm and focused under pressure. I find joy in preparing instruments meticulously and anticipating the needs of the surgical team, which allows for a seamless workflow. This proactive approach not only enhances the efficiency of the procedure but also contributes to better outcomes for patients.

In summary, my choice to pursue a career in surgical technology stems from a desire to make a positive impact in healthcare. With aspirations to specialize further and educate others, I am committed to continuous learning and professional development. The best parts of my job is teamwork, the dynamic environment, and the ability to contribute to patient care, fuel my passion daily, making me eager to embrace the challenges and rewards that lie ahead in this fulfilling career.

Lindsey Jackson

Jacksonville, FL

Fortis Orange Park FL

$1,500 Foundation Scholarship

Receiving this scholarship from the Foundation for Surgical Technology means the world to me. My name is Lindsey Jackson, and before entering this field, I came from a completely different world. I was a professional poker dealer for several years. While I enjoyed the fast-paced energy of the game and interacting with people from all walks of life, deep down I knew I was meant to do something more meaningful and impactful with my life.

Transitioning into the surgical technology field has opened my eyes to a career filled with purpose, structure, and the opportunity to be a part of life-changing work. This journey has introduced me to a brand-new language, a deep sense of discipline, and an even greater sense of responsibility. From scrubbing in for the first time to learning sterile techniques, instrumentation, and anticipating each step of a procedure, I’ve grown tremendously not just as a student, but as a person.

Attending the AST Conference solidified my passion and confidence in the path I’ve chosen. Being surrounded by other surgical technologists and future leaders in the field reminded me that I belong here. Their stories, advice, and encouragement fueled my motivation to keep learning and to be someone that others can rely on in the operating room.

Throughout this experience, I’ve developed strong interests in GYN and orthopedic procedures and surprisingly, podiatry! For someone who never considered herself a “feet person,” I now see how fascinating and vital they are to our overall health and movement. I’ve also always been drawn to the hands and how important they are to so many jobs and daily activities, and how restoring function can restore independence.

This scholarship isn’t just financial support, it’s recognition. It’s belief in my future. I’m deeply honored and excited to give back in the OR, in my community, and to the growing network of peers in this incredible profession.

Nothando Ncube

Oak Park, IL

Triton College

$1,000 Foundation Scholarship

I chose surgical technology after watching a “day in the life” video of a surgical technologist on TikTok. It may sound surprising, but that single video introduced me to a career I didn’t even know existed—one that has quickly become a central part of my life. Before that moment, I had never considered a role in the operating room, but seeing the teamwork, precision, and impact of the surgical technologist inspired me to learn more. When I enrolled in the surgical technology program, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I was eager to challenge myself and discover where this path could lead.

Now, as I prepare for my clinical rotations, I am learning just how important it is to pay careful attention to detail, always to be aware of my surroundings, and to understand that every second counts in the operating room. The program has been challenging, but each new skill I learn makes me more excited for the future. I have developed a deep respect for the surgical team and the level of coordination and communication required to ensure patient safety and successful outcomes.

While my initial interest was sparked by a TikTok video, I have stayed because I genuinely love the process of working closely with a team and being part of procedures that can change someone’s life. My natural curiosity motivates me to keep learning, and I am especially fascinated by neurosurgery—the complexity of the brain and nervous system is truly amazing. I am also interested in plastic and cosmetic surgery, not only because of its presence in the media, but also because it combines technical skill with creativity and artistry.

Looking ahead, I hope to participate in a variety of surgical cases, especially in neurosurgery and plastic surgery, and to continue developing my skills as a surgical technologist. I am committed to lifelong learning, patient safety, and always giving my best in the operating room. I am excited to see where this journey takes me and to make a positive impact on patients’ lives through my work.

Stella Light

Portland, OR

Mt. Hood Community College

$1,000 Foundation Scholarship

Surgical technology captured my interest because of my passion for the dynamic and fast-paced environment of the operating room, which requires quick thinking, precision, organization, and the ability to remain calm under pressure. The high stakes nature of this setting excites me, as it challenges me to always stay focused and effective. I value the opportunity to collaborate with a diverse, multidisciplinary team and appreciate the collective effort it takes to ensure the patient’s safety and providing the best possible care to patients.

My passion for surgical technology is especially fueled by my interest in pediatrics and neonatology. I am drawn to pediatrics from the unique qualities of working with children, specifically their innocence, imagination, and resilience even in challenging circumstances. I find great fulfillment in the opportunity to ease a child’s anxiety by offering playful explanations about procedures, comforting them through moments of fear, and helping to transform potentially frightening experiences into manageable ones. I am grateful to have the opportunity to advocate for children, who are unable to advocate for themselves, and provide them with the best care possible. Ultimately, I aim to make a lasting, positive impact on their lives by helping them build resilience and confidence, even in the face of medical challenges.

It is an honor to be part of a team that provides care to patients during their most vulnerable moments, ensuring they receive the highest quality of care. I am committed to delivering care with empathy, integrity, and excellence. Even in the most challenging situations, I believe my work can help turn a patient’s difficult moments into temporary setbacks, ultimately making a lasting, positive impact on their futures. Looking ahead, I plan to pursue certification as a Surgical First Assistant which will allow me to grow professionally and expand my ability to contribute, supporting patients and surgical teams alike.

Devondria Nueble (Diamond)

Murfreesboro, TN

Fortis Institute (Nashville)

$2,500 Foundation Scholarship

I would like to sincerely thank the Foundation for Surgical Technology Committee and AST organization for this incredible opportunity and for recognizing the hard work and dedication of students like me. Receiving this scholarship means more than financial support-it's a vote of confidence in my future and the path I've chosen, and I'm truly honored and grateful.

I chose surgical technology as my career because I've always been drawn to the fast-paced, hands-on nature of the operating room. As a Medical Assistant, I've worked closely with providers and patients, managing both clinical and administrative responsibilities. While I've grown tremendously in this role, I found myself increasingly inspired by the surgical field and wanted to take a more active part in patient care during critical moments. Surgical technology provides me with the opportunity to contribute to life-saving procedures, maintain sterile environments, and be an integral part of a highly skilled team-something I find both exciting and rewarding.

What I enjoy most about working in surgery is the structure, intensity, and teamwork it requires. Every procedure demands focus, precision, and clear communication. There's nothing more fulfilling than knowing I'll play a part in helping someone heal or even save people's lives. It's behind-the-scenes work that carries real impact, and I take pride in being a part of something so meaningful. My aspirations for the future include becoming a Certified Surgical First Assistant, with a strong interest in cardiovascular and neurosurgery. I want to be even more hands-on in the OR and continue advancing in a field that constantly challenges and inspires me.

Balancing school, work, and motherhood has strengthened my resilience and deepened my commitment to advancing in this field. As I continue my education, I look forward to expanding my technical skills, collaborating with peers in the surgical environment, and engaging in meaningful clinical experiences that will prepare me for more advanced roles. This scholarship opportunity will help lay the foundation for my future as a Surgical First Assistant, and I am excited to build a career rooted in precision, teamwork, and a dedication to patient care in specialized surgical fields such as cardiovascular and neurosurgery.

More profiles are coming soon!