Chelsey is on a mission to fix inequities in healthcare. As a recipient of the 2022 Chairman of the Board Award as part of the Opportunity Rising Scholarship, Chelsey is on the path to doing just that. Currently a freshman at the University of Oklahoma in Norman, Chelsey is utilizing her Chairman of the Board Award and pursuing a bachelor’s degree in nursing.
“I’m passionate about providing adequate medical care to those in need, especially in the Black community, since there are so many common diseases Black people suffer from,” shares Chelsey.
After she completes her bachelor’s degree, she plans to further her education by seeking a Master of Science degree in nursing. Ultimately, she strives to become a cardiac nurse practitioner, which is a goal inspired by her own medical journey.
Nearly two years ago, Chelsey was diagnosed with heart failure, something she says has changed her life for “better and worse.”
“It’s been one of my biggest challenges but it’s also inspired me to specialize in cardiology and care for heart failure patients,” she states.
Chelsey knows that she can overcome any obstacle that stands in her way. Her strong support system is spearheaded by her mother, who encouraged her to apply for the Opportunity Rising Scholarship.
“I did not grow up with the most money or fancy shiny things, [but] I had a mother who believed her daughters could do anything they put their minds to,” says Chelsey. “Without her, I would not be the person I am today. She’s inspired me to try new things and I really admire her.”
Chelsey is doing her part to support her new community on the University of Oklahoma campus. In fact, the weekend after this interview was conducted, she participated in the Big Event, a campus-wide and student-run service project that promotes community service projects such as painting, yard work and visiting with the elderly. If you know Chelsey, it’s no surprise she would get involved in projects like this.
Beyond serving her community, she believes in helping those around her and ensuring everyone is met with kindness. “I like to make others feel special. Being kind to others really brings meaning into my life.”
Chelsey looks forward to her sophomore year on the Norman campus and the future that higher education will give her access to. She’s grateful to the Opportunity Rising Foundation for helping her get here.
“I want to thank everyone who allowed me the opportunity to win this award and those who supported me, especially Ms. Chyrel Roseborough,” the Education Programs and Development Coordinator at the Foundation. “Ms. Roseborough let me know about the scholarship opportunity and constantly checked up on the progress of my scholarship submission,” Chelsey shares.
For students interested in applying for Opportunity Rising scholarship opportunities, Chelsey has one piece of advice: “Someone once told me that area code doesn’t determine your future. No one is more capable than you to alter your life choices and you are smart no matter where you come from,” she concludes.
Students living in DHA-supported housing that plan to attend college classes in the upcoming fall semester are qualified to apply for the Opportunity Rising Scholarship.
