"I am still in awe of the generosity Mr. Warden has shown me. Although I have had to work hard for everything in my life, I am so grateful for every hurdle and learning experience I have encountered along the way. This scholarship has made my dream of attending the Nursing Program at MacEwan University a reality, and I am eager to become a Nurse Practitioner. Attending MacEwan without the financial burden of starting my life with thousands of dollars of debt is making a lasting impact on my life. My genuine intent in life is to pay forward the kindness of the countless people, like Mr. Warden, who have helped me reach where I am today. In becoming a Nurse Practitioner, my greatest wish is to positively support my community and commit my life to making a difference. I will never forget the kindness and wisdom LeRoy Warden has extended to me, and I am eager to begin this next chapter of my life.
Here is my advice to the future applicants of the LeRoy Warden & Associates Scholarship. The more you believe in yourself, the closer you are to reaching your goals. So, study a little harder, write down your biggest dreams and aspirations, and give your best effort at all times. Acknowledge what you desire from life, and recognize what you need to do to make that happen. For some, life consists of many seemingly insurmountable mountains. Don’t let this stop you from putting in the work and to find another way. Be creative. Think outside the box. Learn to climb, hike and persevere the journey up the mountain--you can do this! Become grateful for the lessons that various life experiences you collect along the way, and see how strong and capable they make you. At the peak of the mountain, you’ll be able to stand proud upon all the hard work and determination of so many years. The view will be incredible and you will realize that you are more than capable of anything you set your mind to. At the end of the day, always remember to believe in yourself.
I never could have imagined I would be the recipient of this year’s LeRoy Warden & Associates Scholarship, and yet it happened. Throughout the application process, I stayed authentic and vulnerable. I encourage you to highlight your biggest hopes and dreams, and be clear about what you have to offer the world.
What do you want your story to be? Find a way to make that happen."