Jae’cyn, a member of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe, is studying nursing at Mitchell Technical College in South Dakota. As a first-generation college student, she’s determined to return home and help her community thrive. 

“I’ve always known I wanted to go into the medical field,” she said. “Once I complete college, I want to return and work at our Tribal hospital. I want to provide healthcare that is culturally sensitive and meets the needs of our people. Native Americans have higher risks for conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and substance abuse. With my education, I want to focus on preventing these risks by educating my community. I would also serve as an advocate for Native Americans in healthcare, understanding the specific challenges we face.” 

Her path toward a healthcare career began close to home, where she worked at a nursing home on the reservation. There, she discovered her passion for nursing and built lasting relationships with the residents. “I liked being close with the residents, and I realized nursing was right up my alley.” 

She also learned the Lakota language from those she cared for. “That is so cool to hear because now you don’t really hear anyone speak Lakota.” 

Jae’cyn was awarded a scholarship from the American Indian Education Fund® (AIEF) program of Partnership With Native Americans® (PWNA). In addition to financial aid, AIEF provides care packages throughout the year to help students like Jae’cyn adjust to life away from home. For many, it’s their first time living outside their community, and these packages remind them that they’re not alone. 

“The books, the binder, and the [sunflower] seeds are probably my favorite,” she said. “It really made me happy and made me feel more important. Most scholarships don’t really do a lot like that, so it’s an extra step that makes me feel better.” Between school supplies, snacks, and hygiene items, she estimated the package saved her about $50. 

Her experiences have strengthened her commitment to improving healthcare access on the reservation. She has recognized the need for increased home health services and the importance of reaching people in remote areas.  

“I realized a lot more people need help that can get it,” she said. 

She hopes to be part of that change. “The hospital in Eagle Butte is often in need of medical staff, and I wanted to choose a career that I love and that allows me to contribute to my people. I plan to work as a nurse for four to five years before deciding if I want to further my education and become a home health nurse. In that role, I would be able to help those who cannot easily leave their homes, especially Elders and the very sick, from the comfort of their own space.” 

After losing her father during high school, Jae’cyn stepped up to help her mom care for her three younger brothers, and her family remains her strongest motivation, keeping her grounded in traditional Native values. 

“She gives us everything she didn’t get growing up, and I hope to be exactly like her in my future,” she said. “Having that sense of family is really important. That’s what my culture and heritage have taught me.” 

Jae’cyn passed on her gratitude to donors. “Thank you. The package made me feel really important. I really appreciate everything.” She added that without the scholarship, “I would’ve had to have taken out a loan. Having help made it easier and made me not have to worry about money in the future and right now.” 

Help more Native dreams like Jae’cyn get an education and bring change back to their communities. Donate to AIEF today.