What drew you to nursing and healthcare?
My passion for healthcare was sparked when I worked as a lifeguard at my city’s recreational pool. I really enjoyed learning CPR and first aid, learning all different types of caring for someone in their most vulnerable times. Nurses are real life superheroes, and I really admire their work, it is very inspiring and intriguing to me. I love learning about healthcare and different ways to care for unique people.

What do you hope to do as a nurse when you graduate from USF?
The possibilities are endless! The variety of opportunities and flexibility of being an RN is another quality that drew me into nursing. Currently, I would like to work in the operating room, emergency room, or labor and delivery department. I would like to work in these departments as a travel nurse because exploring new cultures and new foods are also one of my passions. One reason I chose USF was because I like their emphasis on social justice and one of my main missions as a nurse is to provide care for impoverished communities and make sure people have access to basic healthcare.

How will the NATO of California/Nevada scholarship assist you in your studies OR
What are you looking forward to as a NATO of California/Nevada Scholar?
The National Association of Theatre Owners of California/Nevada scholarship is majorly assisting my education because I come from a single income family and school expenses outweigh my family’s contribution, the NATO scholarship makes it possible to attend my dream school and obtain my dream degree! With the NATO scholarship I am able to attend USF, relieving some of the financial stress and motivating me to work harder towards my dream career.

Why did you choose USF?
USF has an emphasis on social justice, while also being located in one of the most beautiful cities! In the School of Nursing and Health Professions, they have a latin phrase cura personalis which means care for the whole person. In nursing it is really easy to see a patient as a list of symptoms that need to be solved or fixed, disregarding the emotional and psychological impact that being in the hospital can have. USF prepares nursing students with the skills to care for the whole person, how to empathize with patients, communicate clearly, make them feel comfortable, while treating them for why they came into the clinic or hospital.

Tell us about yourself! (This can be whatever you choose – your hobbies, passions, friends/family, or fun facts about you.)
I grew up right outside of San Francisco, in a city called San Bruno. It’s where the Youtube headquarters are! My whole family went to the high school I went to, and I won an award for my participation and leadership in sports. I played soccer, swim, cheerleading, golf, and I was a team manager for the water polo team. My favorite food is street tacos with carnitas and no onions. Two of my biggest passions are traveling and food. I love learning about the cultures that I travel to and trying their cultural dishes. Quarantine has been really difficult for me, but my closest friends and my family helped me through it. I really enjoy being in nature, it makes me feel at home.