Q) What does Hispanic Heritage Month and National HSI Week mean to you?
Hispanic Heritage Month is a time for me when our community gathers together and recognizes the history of our culture and the impact of the movements that the Hispanic community has had. It also helps us celebrate and expand on what the Hispanic community has accomplished.
Q) How do you feel like you impact the Hispanic community with the work you are doing?
I feel like I help the Hispanic community in so many ways as nurse. Because of my background and my heritage, I feel like I can be more empathetic to their needs and ensure they always receive the best care possible.
Q) How has your Hispanic heritage or culture shaped your life and who you are?
Being a Hispanic woman, I feel like I have faced a lot of challenges over the years and sometimes were not given the same opportunities as others. As a Registered Nurse, it is pretty empowering to see what I have accomplished in my life.
Q) What is the biggest challenge you have had to overcome?
The biggest challenge I had to overcome was getting through nursing school. Once I was admitted, it seemed like everything in my life started falling apart. My car had issues, my parents were divorcing and it seemed like nothing was stable. It was hard to study and stick with it. I knew if I could finish, it would all be worth it in the end.
Q) What advice would you give to Hispanic students currently enrolled in the same program that you were in?
No matter what happens, keep pushing through. Use the resources available to you like the learning center and tutoring. I know it is hard, but make GateWay your home. I promise it is worth it in the end.