Being born prematurely was a blessing in disguise that no one in my family saw, not even myself. My parents watching their little girl fighting for her life in the NICU on a hot summer day was not ideal but rather a reality they could not stray away from. The early months of my life were spent in the embrace of the neonatal intensive care unit, surrounded by the hum of machines and the unwavering dedication of the healthcare professionals who became my lifelines. After my parents were informed that they would not be able to accompany me in the NICU 24/7, they were fraught with fear. Little did they know, a team of dedicated nurses stood ready to take on the special task, providing me with unwavering care and support. The fragility of my existence and the tender care I received ignited a flame within me as I got older, and a rather profound desire to pay forward the compassion and expertise that had defined my infancy. Thus, I knew I wanted to be a nurse. I knew I wanted to be a beacon of hope and healing, and a pillar of support, providing comfort and care to individuals facing the uncertainties of their health From a young age, I have been drawn to the complexities of the human body as well as the resilience and courage exhibited by children in the face of adversity, like I once did. As I matured and refined my career goals, I quickly discovered my keen desire to become a registered nurse specializing in Pediatric Hematology/Oncology. I yearn to be a source of comfort, hope, and advocacy for children as they navigate the complexities of their health. Whether it's administering chemotherapy, providing emotional support, or coordinating multidisciplinary care, I am dedicated to ensuring that every child receives the personalized care they deserve. Last summer, I was graciously granted the opportunity to participate in New York University’s Research Education in Cardiovascular Conditions Program (1 R25 HL145323-01A1). I gained an understanding of the social determinants of health among vulnerable populations and the development of innovative evidence-based interventions. While working alongside various experienced nurses to help develop manuscripts, I was exposed to research and nursing science, opening my eyes to a whole new world of possibilities. Further down the line in my nursing career, I seek to pursue a research-focused career, obtaining my Doctorate in Nursing Practice. I believe that both my curiosity and willingness to learn are responsible for my sparked interest in cancer research, specifically among Black women. I view nursing research as a form of advocacy, which is crucial for helping underrepresented communities thrive and is something that I am committed to do. Nursing is evidently an interdisciplinary field in which an individual can explore various disciplines that go beyond traditional interpretations, which I greatly admire. My own journey as a courageous premature baby has become a source of inspiration in my life, propelling me toward a future where I can explore the boundless nature of nursing and be the compassionate force that eases the anxieties of patients and their families. So, as I embark on my nursing journey, I carry with me resilience, ready and eager to translate my unique perspective into a compassionate and impactful career in nursing.