A student nurse discovers the motivation and resources to continue her education.

Ann Obiagwu was a natural born caregiver. In her native country of Nigeria, Ann volunteered her time to care for the elderly in their homes, even as very young child. So when she came to the United States in 2000, a nursing career was in her blood. As a certified nursing assistant, Ann sought to further her education in nursing so she could provide better care to more people. "I have always loved the art of care giving. I chose the nursing profession because it lets me use my spirit to make a difference in the lives of people receiving care," says Ann.

Arriving in Jacksonville, Ann enrolled in the University of North Florida Brooks College of Health. After a year of classes, Ann began to see her educational debt mount. Married and a mother of four young children, Ann's family and her caring spirit kept her driving toward her educational achievements. But the strain of funding her education began to threaten her destiny of becoming a nurse. "While I was at UNF, I read about the Brooks College of Health Scholarship," says Ann, "And I applied for consideration."  Ann will receive $1,750 in scholarship funding for the upcoming semester, which will help pay for part of her education. The scholarship will enable her to continue in school without amassing more debt.

"I was thrilled when I received the award letter. This scholarship is a significant source of funding that will help continue my education while greatly reducing my debt. It greatly motivates me to strive for the highest level of excellence in my education," says Ann.  "It's tough going to school and taking care of my family at the same time. But with God's grace, determination and lots of sacrifice we have made it this far."