My name is Ayah Abdallah and I am grateful to be here today sharing my story with you. My nursing journey started seven years ago in California as a critical care nurse, but the inspiration for my passion began long before that. Becoming a nurse has been the most rewarding decision I have made. My passion for the field has taken me around the country, working as a travel nurse in various critical care units. I am proud to be a nurse, but my journey continues. I am currently pursuing a doctoral degree in Nurse Anesthesia at Rutgers University. I aspire to become a nurse anesthetist providing specialized care at the highest levels. The doctoral program at Rutgers University has been the most challenging yet fulfilling chapter in my career. I am consistently pushed and inspired by those who stand beside me – some of the brightest and most passionate people you will ever meet. They drive me to become the best version of myself. The constant daily challenges presented by the anesthesia program is a stark reminder of what it takes to succeed. Dedication, sacrifice, and lots of coffee have been the cornerstone of my sanity so far.
I am a firm believer in a work life balance that encourages the pursuit of hobbies while staying active. Outside of the student life you can find me on a mountain hiking with friends, going for runs around the neighborhood and biking. Practicing a healthy lifestyle sets an example for my patients to follow.
It is truly an honor to be selected for the Spotlight Scholarship. I am humbled at the opportunity to continue my learning path with the support of the Honor Society Foundation. The scholarship will help alleviate the monetary requirement that comes with being a full-time student. Time that would be spent working can instead be focused on my didactics, clinical experiences and the doctoral project. To say the scholarship would alleviate financial burdens is an understatement that cannot be sufficiently expressed. I am grateful for the chance to represent myself and those that support me on my journey to become a nurse anesthetist.
