Scholar Spotlight: Paige Sensouk
Rising senior at University of Iowa
“My biggest accomplishment has been getting into nursing school at the University of Iowa. It’s one of the best nursing schools in the country and has a competitive admission process. I was admitted a semester early, which made it feel like all of the hard work and sacrifices I’ve made along the way were worth it.”
What opportunities or experiences have you been able to take part in that you might not have been able to without the scholarship?
Without this scholarship, I would not have had the opportunity to apply and be admitted into one of the top nursing schools in the country. In fact, I probably wouldn’t have pursued secondary education at all. I would likely still be at home and would have started working right out of high school.
I also would not have met the people who have been so important to shaping the who I have become. Thanks to this scholarship, I have been able to have so many valuable experiences and have made so many memories.
What is the most interesting thing you have done to gain experience in your career field?
I am currently exploring the world of being a first responder. I am working to gain enough experience in critical and trauma care that I can apply to flight nursing. I think it will be exhilarating to go on rescue missions and apply my knowledge in such a high-pressure setting.
What advice would you give to someone who is considering applying for the Bright Scholarship/Lois Dale Scholarship?
I would advise anyone who is considering applying for the scholarship would be to get involved and work on learning leadership skills. This will allow you to give back to your community, which was one of Lois and Dale’s most important goals. It is a privilege and an honor to be in a position where you can give back to others.
It’s also important to build connections with your instructors and network with others. Not only will these relationships lead to great letters of recommendation, but they will also help open doors to different opportunities that allow you to build your skills and help others.
Where do you see yourself in five years? 10 years?
In five years, I see myself living somewhere in the south or on the west coast. I’ll most likely be working in a hospital or as a travel nurse, exploring the country. In 10 years, I hope to have enough experience to be a flight nurse. By then, I hope to be living on the west coast, making rescue missions and working to save people in dangerous situations.
Where is your favorite place to study?
My favorite place to study is in the nursing building. There are many big, open windows and individual spaces to be alone. Since I’m a nursing student, I have access to the building late at night and on weekends.
Thanks for getting to know our wonderful scholars! Stayed tuned for more spotlights to come on our News & Events page, as well as other updates!