From First-Gen Roots to Nursing Heights

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My parents worked tirelessly to provide for our family, often taking on multiple jobs to make ends meet. They instilled a strong work ethic and a sense of responsibility, which would serve me well in my future nursing career.

Back in high school, I began to explore different career paths. I was drawn to the sciences and was fascinated by the human body. After some twists and turns, I enthusiastically transferred to USF.

Throughout my nursing program, I've navigated the challenges of balancing multiple responsibilities, including supporting my family, pursuing my education, and serving as a residential advisor, while working multiple jobs. Despite the challenges, I've found the experience to be incredibly rewarding. I am surrounded by fellow transfer students from diverse backgrounds and cultures, and we all share a common goal of becoming compassionate and skilled nurses. With this supportive network by my side, I've discovered a more profound sense of belonging and felt my passion reignited, fueling my pursuit of goals with unwavering determination.

During my clinical rotations, I was struck by the impact nurses have on patients' lives. I saw how nurses went above and beyond to provide care and comfort to patients and their families. I knew I wanted to be a part of that. One nurse who has left a lasting impact on my life is Dr. Mary Lou De Natale. During my mental health and community and mental health rotation, Dr. De Natale allowed us to truly immerse ourselves in our local communities to work at the food pantry, provide telehealth services to those in need, support elders at the community center, and however else we could bring care and support to those around us. This was a rewarding experience that allowed me to see how nursing extends from the bedside to our community.

I saw how nurses went above and beyond to provide care and comfort to patients and their families. I knew I wanted to be a part of that.

A memorable experience at USF was in February 2024. I was sponsored by Stanford to attend NBNA Day on Capitol Hill. It was an experience like no other. I was thrilled to put what I learned in my theory classes into practice, leveraging my knowledge to inform and advocate for legislative changes that positively impact healthcare and social justice. I met and spoke with incredible nurse leaders, instructors, and policymakers. Through this opportunity, I researched evidence-based practices, addressed inequities in Black maternal health, diversified the nursing workforce, and tackled pressing issues like infant mortality, climate change, gun violence, and obesity, contributing to a more equitable society. I gained a deep understanding of the impact nurses have on patient outcomes, from the frontlines of direct care to outpatient clinics and leadership roles. I discovered the critical role nurses play in shaping patient experiences and the meaningful differences they make in the world.

As I continue to grow and develop as a future nurse, I want to embody the qualities of compassion, knowledge, and strength. I'm reminded of the wise words of Florence Nightingale that Dr. John Hurley shared in my pediatrics class: ‘Skeletal strength allows people to stand straight, and moral strength allows those same people to bend down in service.’ This quote resonates with me, as it highlights the importance of not just having technical skills and knowledge, but also having the moral courage and empathy to truly make a difference in the lives of others. I strive to carry these values with me as I transition into my nursing career. I look forward to sharing my skills and compassion with patients and families while making my loved ones proud.