Application for Employment
"I didn't know what to do," the woman on the other end of the phone soundednear to tears. "I couldn't understand a word the person told me; I don'tspeak very good English." I could tell by her accent that like me, thewoman was not a native English speaker. "Don't worry. We are here to help,"I reassured her. "I can also help you to understand some of what theinsurance company was trying to tell you so that you can decide whichtreatment program would best suit your needs. Don't ever be afraid to askfor help-that's what we are here for!" I continued the conversation inSpanish, explaining how the health care program worked and eliminating thejargon that all too often accompanies such conversations. I immediatelynoticed a change in her voice as I assured her that she was eligible forfull coverage for her upcoming surgery under her current plan. She nolonger sounded on the verge of tears and luckily, her health issue was notsevere and we scheduled her for surgery. However, I have encounterednumerous situations in my profession in which a person, because oflanguage, cultural, or financial barriers, has chosen to put off seekingmedical treatment. As a result, minor problems escalate into serious, even
As I am bilingual, I already possess the skillswith which to help the millions of Spanish-speaking Americans sift throughthe complicated nuances of medical insurance to reach the bottom line:financial aid for essential human services. When I was first an undergraduate studentat an out-of-state university, I experienced a loss and tragedy so severeas to topple everything I had built that far in my life. In touch with the needs of the working poor, the immigrant community,and all citizens who require medical care but who are afraid or intimidatedby the system, I hope to help all persons in need. I have been able to assist many ofthese people reduce their medical costs simply through communication,through speaking with the insurance companies about various options thepatient might not have known about otherwise. Starting from aneconomic and emotional bottom, I have worked my way to the point where I amnow, a point where I can finally consider attending school again andsecuring my degree. For instance, a lump on the breast discovered early can besafely removed but wait a few months and cancer can spread throughout thebody. Much of my motivationstems from personal experiences. Many times, the material I mustrelate to patients is difficult enough to understand in English, let alonein a second language. Someof the patients are unaware of what kinds of services are available andwhich are covered by their plans. I spend hours per day speaking toinsurance companies on the phone, trying to clarify the various types ofmedical plans and communicate this knowledge to patients, many of whom donot speak English or do not understand how insurance coverage works. The hardships I have experienced over the course of mylife have toughened me, strengthened my resolve to succeed, and increasedmy potential for compassionate and educated human services. Pregnant and eagerto start not only my career but my family as well, I attended school full-time intending to receive my degree and be a successful working mom. The loss of his presence andthe loss of his support forced me to drop out of school, move in with myparents, and get a job to support myself and my daughter.
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Acceptance Essays
