TD Aboriginal Nursing Fund Award – Baccalaureate

My name is Jessica Duquette and I am in my second year of nursing school at Mount Royal University. Growing up I faced a lot of diversity and challenges that shaped the person I’ve become. I’ve learnt to fight for what I want and not to give up, when faced with the impossible I always managed to push through. It took me awhile to learn my place in life. I knew I always had a warm, kind spirit and my best ability was caring for others and having intuition of others’ needs. Nursing became the torch that lead my way to my bright and life-fulfilling future.

Alongside my clinical experience, I have also been working as a health care aide. This has allowed me to put into action the gifts I have to share with others. Being at patients’ besides, providing care, a warm smile, and an open ear has been the most rewarding experience of my life. The connections I make with my patients each day fulfills me with purpose and a scope of understanding.

Growing up was always a struggle, as my family could not afford to help me attain a post-secondary education. Receiving this scholarship from the Canadian Nurses Foundation has been a blessing. Having the drive and passion to attain my bachelor’s degree has only been hindered by my ability to afford the cost of tuition. This scholarship has provided me with a gift and great appreciation for allowing me to attain my dream of becoming a Registered Nurse. I wish to thank the sponsors who have helped make this scholarship possible. I cannot put into words the gratitude I have for helping me out in such a tremendous way. I hope that one day I can pay it forward.