I am a first-generation Mexican American student who aspires to build a nursing career to change the healthcare system. My experiences growing up, coupled with my desire to address language barriers in healthcare, have shaped my passion for nursing. I am determined to specialize in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) or Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Being the second of five children, I assumed the role of a second mother for my two youngest siblings. This close bond and the challenges they faced ignited my passion for working in the PICU, or NICU. Witnessing their struggles and the compassionate care they received from healthcare professionals profoundly impacted me. I firmly believe that every child deserves the highest quality of care, regardless of their background or language barriers. By specializing in pediatric critical care, I aim to provide a voice for vulnerable children who cannot advocate for themselves and parents who struggle to find the right words in a new language to fully express themselves. Growing up in a bilingual household, I witnessed firsthand the difficulties my family faced when interacting with healthcare providers due to language barriers. I remember having to serve as an interpreter for my immigrant parents since I could read. Regrettably, I observed family members receiving inadequate care and feeling marginalized because they were unable to effectively communicate their needs. This fueled my determination to bridge this gap in healthcare and ensure that language barriers do not hinder the delivery of proper care and support. It was during my sister's stay in the NICU that a nurse who could communicate with my family in Spanish had an indelible impact. She demonstrated that linguistic diversity should be celebrated rather than suppressed. Inspired by her example, I am committed to using my language skills to advocate for patients and empower those who cannot speak up for themselves. To equip myself for this significant step in my journey, I decided to volunteer at a local hospital during the summer before nursing school. By immersing myself in the Emergency Department (ED) and postpartum units, I gained valuable insights into nursing and the importance of building rapport. As I assisted the nurses with their tasks, lent a listening ear to patients, served as an interpreter when I could, and offered support wherever needed, I developed a profound appreciation for the dedication and resilience required to provide exceptional care. Furthermore, these experiences solidified my determination to bring about positive change in healthcare, ensuring that language barriers do not compromise the quality of care patients receive. My personal background and experiences have shaped my ambition to pursue a career in nursing, specifically in the PICU or NICU. As a first-generation student who saw these issues first-hand, I am driven to address the language barriers that can hinder effective healthcare delivery. My time spent volunteering in the hospital has reaffirmed my commitment and strengthened my resolve to advocate for patients, particularly those who face linguistic obstacles. I strive to be a beacon of change, fostering a healthcare system where language is not a barrier but a bridge to provide compassionate, inclusive, and high-quality care to all individuals. By embracing my language skills and championing the needs of others, I aim to create a positive impact on healthcare for my siblings, future generations, and individuals from diverse backgrounds.

The decision to pursue a bachelor's degree in nursing is rooted in my deep-seated commitment to serving others and making a meaningful difference in their lives. Inspired by personal experiences and a desire to address healthcare disparities, my chosen area of nursing focuses on providing care in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and later becoming a pediatric nurse practitioner. At the age of 10, I had a pivotal experience when I accompanied my grandfather to his hospital visits and had to act as his interpreter. This eye-opening encounter made me acutely aware of the challenges faced by patients who do not receive care in a language they understand. It became clear to me that effective communication is not just crucial for accurate medical treatment, but also for empowering patients and ensuring they are well informed about their healthcare journey. This realization was further reinforced when my little sister was admitted to the NICU. In this vulnerable environment, many of the nurses only spoke Spanish, and once again, I had to step into the role of an interpreter between my mother and the medical staff. Amidst the language barrier, one nurse stood out for her ability to communicate with my family in our native language. Her compassionate and attentive care made a tremendous impact, helping my mom understand every aspect of my sister's condition and treatment. She not only provided medical support but also instilled hope and empowerment within our family. It was this same nurse who remained by our side when my sister was discharged from the NICU. Her words of encouragement to my mom, acknowledging her unwavering hope and resilience, touched our hearts deeply. This nurse's compassionate care and dedication left an indelible mark on us, inspiring my aspirations to make a similar positive impact in the lives of others. As a future NICU nurse, my primary goal will be to support parents and create an environment where they feel empowered and well-informed. By offering bilingual support and fostering open communication, I aim to alleviate anxieties and empower parents during this challenging time. Through my presence and support, I hope to create an environment of trust and collaboration between healthcare providers and families. Looking ahead, I hope to become a nurse practitioner, equipped with the advanced knowledge and skills necessary to address health disparities in low-income communities. I firmly believe that access to quality healthcare should be a fundamental right for everyone, regardless of their financial circumstances. By pursuing a master's degree in nursing, I aim to expand my scope of practice and provide comprehensive care to underserved populations. As a nurse practitioner, I will continue to advocate for equitable healthcare access and work towards breaking down language barriers. I envision working closely with marginalized communities, providing primary care services, preventive care, and health education. By offering culturally sensitive care and addressing the specific needs of each patient, I hope to contribute to a more inclusive and equitable healthcare system. From being an interpreter for my grandfather to witnessing the impact of a Spanish-speaking nurse in the NICU, these experiences have solidified my determination to create a positive change in healthcare. As a future NICU nurse, I aspire to empower parents and provide comprehensive care, and as a future nurse practitioner, I aim to address health disparities and advocate for accessible healthcare for all. Through these endeavors, I hope to contribute to a more equitable and inclusive healthcare system where every individual can receive the care they need and deserve.

Being a first-generation college student has had a profound impact on shaping my career goals. My aspiration to become a nurse is rooted in the recognition that there is a scarcity of nurses of color, particularly in communities like mine, where the majority of residents are Spanish speaking. Witnessing the significant language barrier between healthcare providers and community members motivated me to pursue nursing to bridge that gap. One vivid memory stands out: at the age of 10, I accompanied my grandfather to a follow-up medical appointment and found myself acting as his interpreter. This firsthand experience illuminated the urgent need for healthcare professionals who can effectively communicate with and provide quality care to individuals facing language barriers. It ignited a passion within me to become a nurse and make a tangible difference in the lives of those who share similar struggles. As a first-generation student, I faced unique challenges in navigating the complexities of college and nursing school. The unfamiliarity with the education system, coupled with financial constraints, presented additional obstacles. However, these hurdles only fueled my determination to succeed and motivated me to prove that one's financial situation should not determine their ability to achieve their dreams. During my journey, a friend made a discouraging remark, asserting that individuals who lack financial stability should not pursue nursing due to the associated costs. That comment struck a chord within me and reinforced my commitment to breaking barriers and inspiring other first-generation students. I firmly believe that one's financial circumstances should not hinder the pursuit of their aspirations. My career goals extend beyond personal ambition; they encompass a deep desire to challenge societal norms, promote diversity, and empower others to follow their dreams. By becoming a nurse, I aim to advocate for first-generation students and serve as a role model, demonstrating that resilience and determination can overcome financial limitations. Through my experiences and achievements, I aspire to inspire positive change within the healthcare system and in the lives of those who look up to me. By pursuing my dreams and succeeding as a first-generation student, I want to embody the boundless possibilities and opportunities available to others in similar circumstances.

I witnessed firsthand how language barriers can affect healthcare outcomes for individuals from marginalized communities. One significant personal experience that solidified my desire to pursue pediatric nursing was when my little sister had to undergo surgery at 2 years old. As a frightened and non-English-speaking child, she struggled to understand what was happening and why she was in the hospital. However, the pediatric nurses involved in her care went above and beyond to ensure that she and our entire family received the support and care we needed. Despite the language barrier, these exceptional nurses displayed immense compassion and sensitivity. I was deeply touched by their attention and commitment to helping her feel protected and understood. This experience highlighted the critical role of pediatric nurses in providing a caring and supportive atmosphere for their young patients and their families. Furthermore, my own experiences as a child of immigrant parents who only spoke Spanish have given me a thorough understanding of the struggles that people from non-English-speaking backgrounds face. From an early age, I had to act as an interpreter for my parents, explaining complex medical terms. This position helped me understand how crucial effective communication is in healthcare settings. I want to bridge the language gap so that every child and their family can understand their medical diagnoses, treatment plans, and healthcare instructions. I aspire to be the kind of pediatric nurse who goes above and beyond to ensure that my future patients and their families feel cared for, even if we cannot communicate in their primary language. I want to be the source of comfort and reassurance for both the children and their parents. I aim to utilize my bilingual skills and cultural understanding to bridge the communication gap, advocating for language access and providing security and trust to those I serve. Choosing a career in nursing is rooted in my passion for making a positive difference in people's lives. I have always been drawn to the healthcare field, and nursing provides a unique opportunity to impact patients and their families directly. By becoming a nurse, I can improve the health and well-being of individuals, particularly those facing social and linguistic challenges. Pediatric nursing resonates with me because children are the most vulnerable members of our society. They rely on healthcare professionals to provide them with the best possible care, and it is crucial to ensure that they receive equal access to healthcare services regardless of their background. Unfortunately, racial disparities often result in unequal healthcare outcomes for children from minority communities. I want to be a part of the solution by advocating for equitable healthcare practices and providing culturally sensitive care to pediatric patients. I am choosing a career in nursing to help fight against racial disparities and break down the language barrier in healthcare. I want to advocate for equitable healthcare practices, provide culturally sensitive care, and ensure effective communication for all pediatric patients and their families. Through empathy, effective communication, and cultural competence, I aspire to create a nurturing and inclusive environment where every child feels safe, understood, and empowered. Pediatric nursing is not only a profession for me; it is a calling to advocate for equitable healthcare and to be a beacon of comfort and reassurance for those in need. I believe that every child deserves the best possible chance at a healthy and fulfilling life, regardless of their cultural or linguistic background. I am committed to dedicating myself to this noble profession and making a meaningful difference in the lives of those I serve.

Throughout my life, a burning desire to assist others, uplift my community, and be a voice for the voiceless has always resided within me. My unwavering dedication to joining the healthcare industry stems from a mission close to my heart: ensuring equitable treatment and adequate medical care for patients of color, particularly in the labor and delivery setting where women need the utmost support. Regrettably, far too many women of color have fallen victim to healthcare disparities, their needs neglected due to their racial or ethnic backgrounds. Witnessing my own mother's mistreatment and neglect during her healthcare journey as a Hispanic woman ignited a fire within me, propelling me to volunteer at my local hospital's post-partum unit. As a volunteer, I had the privilege of interacting with individuals from diverse cultures, each with their own unique beliefs. Assisting Spanish-speaking mothers in communicating their concerns to nurses and bridging the language barrier brought me immense fulfillment. Beyond the healthcare environment, I often find myself extending a helping hand to elderly Hispanic individuals, reminiscent of my grandparents. Whether it's locating an item in a grocery store or conveying their pain, I eagerly offer any assistance I can. In my pursuit to facilitate effective communication and comprehension of treatment plans, I aspire to obtain certification as a medical interpreter, focusing on underserved communities with large Spanish-speaking populations. Regrettably, it is not uncommon for nurses of color to encounter prejudice from their patients. They are often unfairly regarded as inferior to their white counterparts. Thankfully, there are numerous national organizations actively combating discrimination and racism faced by nurses of color. These organizations are dedicated to improving health within their communities while providing educational, professional, and leadership opportunities for nurses from similar backgrounds. Through initiatives such as scholarships, mentorship programs, and engaging events, these organizations cultivate supportive communities where these nurses can connect and uplift one another. While commendable efforts are being made by organizations like the National Institute of Minority Health and Health Disparities and the Health Resources and Services Administration to address minority health and health disparities, there remains ample room for improvement. Though I am aware of the magnitude of this issue, I am driven by ambition, focus, and unwavering determination to raise awareness about racial disparities, hoping to inspire those with greater influence to act. Even if I cannot single-handedly transform the healthcare system, I aspire to positively impact my patients' lives. I want them to feel heard, understood, and valued, knowing that in addition to receiving treatment, they have a caring ally in me.

Who knew that just six worlds could be so stressful? Tell us about yourself. There is a plethora of things I could mention, but I do not know how where to start. I have faced many challenges from an early age. At just 3 months old, my parents struggled with me because I had been diagnosed with severe asthma, we were constantly in and out of the hospital. Around 12 years old, I was medically diagnosed with depression and anxiety, and not soon after my parents got divorced. I had to move 3 times in my senior year of high school. I have helped raise my younger siblings and have become like a second mother to them. Yet none of those tell about who I am. I was born and raised in Escondido, California. My fondest memories growing up were going to my grandma’s house where all my family lived and jumping into the big pool. From a young age, I knew I wanted to go to college and make an impact on people. I enjoyed teaching others, however as time went on, I realized that nursing was what I was meant to do, that this was not only my passion but my calling. I was accepted into nursing school summer of 2022 to begin the upcoming fall. I was ecstatic when I received the news that I had been accepted because I knew what it meant to my family and me as a first-generation student. Quickly, those emotions subsided and were shortly followed by disappointment and stress just a few days after because my mother and I realized what this would mean for us financially, no more financial assistance from the school and 2 consecutive years with no summers to save up. I have been doing all I can to take as much weight off her shoulders, especially because she is still caring for two babies and my other brother. I hope to create a positive impact on the world through my nursing career by helping patients of color feel heard, despite their primary language so that the language barrier does not affect the level of care they receive. Although I am conscious that this issue is far larger than I am; I am ambitious, focused, and determined to spread awareness of the language barrier in the hopes that it may inspire others with more power to act. Far too many people of color have fallen through the cracks of health care because of the language barrier between patients and providers, unfortunately, the most affected group has been Hispanics and Latinos. My mother was one of these patients; someone who was ignored, belittled, and treated unfairly because she was a Hispanic woman. During my clinical rotation, I saw a nurse raise their voice at a patient, with hopes that being louder would help the patient understand what the nurse was saying. To these patients, this was something they were used to but to me, this was an issue that was putting their care and ultimately their life at risk. Even if I am unable to significantly impact the healthcare system, I hope that my efforts can have a positive impact on my future patients. I want them to feel that as a nurse, my job is not only to provide medical care for them but to also ensure they are being listened to and understood.

It's an amazing moment when you get to the feeling that tells you, "this is what I was meant to do." I grew up wanting to follow in my aunt's footsteps and become a teacher, however, after an experience with my grandfather followed by another with my sister, something inside of me switched and I realized that I was meant to serve and help my community by joining the medical field. My grandfather has been diagnosed with liver cancer and had to be taken to the hospital for a transplant, I stayed in the hospital for about a week by my grandfather's side, being the middle-man between the healthcare workers and my family since there was a language barrier. Seeing my grandfather in such a vulnerable state made me worry and when my family would bring up concerns with the nurses or doctors, they seem annoyed or would just brush us off. That was when I was first inspired to bring change to the medical field. A few years later, my baby sister Liliana was born. She was born a pre-mature but still mostly healthy baby; however, it seemed that the longer she was out of the womb, the more complications and issues that would arise. She had to be rushed to the NICU because she would randomly stop breathing and her abdomen had become distended. Watching my mother in tears as they told her she was discharged but her newborn baby had to remain in the hospital for at least a week. I could see my mom's sadness turn into anger when she remembered expressing concerns about the baby to nurses multiple and once again she was dismissed simply because she was a woman of color. In the NICU, there was a black nurse who although could not speak Spanish, she formed a bond with my mother and made her feel secure and heard. She answered any and all questions my mother had thoroughly, explaining they were doing everything they can because they too wanted Liliana to go home, instead of the typical "that's normal" or "we'll wait and see if it gets worse." I remember looking at that nurse in the eyes and getting that feeling, this is what I want to do. I want to be there for other patients and people of color who have felt dismissed or uncared for because other healthcare workers did not want to bother with them. I was inspired to go into the medical field by the inequality in medical care and the attention people of color receive. I want to make sure that each patient feels heard and that their race does not determine what kind of health care they receive. I am constantly switching about what area I want to specialize in. I have felt like NICU was meant for me but surgical nursing has also recently sparked my interest. For NICU, my goal is to not just help as many babies, but also form a connection with the mothers and make sure they are being taken care of as well. A child's health is dependent on their mothers, my hope is that they know I am not just their child's nurse but I am also their support system, especially if they feel like they have no one else. In the operating room, my goal is to fight for patients of color when the doctors have given up. I know it can be challenging but I would hate to walk out of the surgery knowing there was something I would have done to save the patient on the table.