My name is Perla Angulo, and I am a proud DACA student preparing to begin the Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program at Samuel Merritt University. Coming from a low-income, Spanish-speaking, single-parent household, my life has been shaped by perseverance, family, and the belief that compassion can create real change. My mother raised our family on her own and worked tirelessly to provide for us. Watching her face challenges with strength and grace taught me that resilience and empathy can overcome even the most difficult circumstances. Those lessons have become the foundation for my journey into nursing and my dream of making a positive impact in the world through healthcare. Growing up, I often served as my mother’s translator during doctor’s appointments because she spoke only Spanish. I still remember the uncertainty she felt when she couldn’t understand her doctors, and how relieved she was when I could help her communicate. Those moments opened my eyes to the barriers that exist for families like mine—barriers of language, culture, and access. I realized that compassionate communication and cultural understanding are just as important to healthcare as medical skill. These experiences inspired me to pursue a career in nursing, where I can use both my bilingual abilities and my empathy to advocate for others. My goal is to become a registered nurse who serves underrepresented and immigrant communities. I want to ensure that patients like my mother feel seen, heard, and respected. Healthcare should never feel intimidating or isolating; it should be a space where everyone is treated with dignity, regardless of their background or language. I hope to work in community health, where I can help bridge the gap between patients and providers, promote preventive care, and educate families about their health in a way that empowers them. I also plan to participate in medical outreach programs in underserved areas, both locally and abroad, to help communities with limited access to healthcare. My long-term vision is to combine nursing with public health work—to not only treat illness but also address the root causes of health disparities through education, advocacy, and community engagement. I believe that one person’s compassion can have a ripple effect, touching countless lives. Beyond the clinical side of nursing, I want to be an advocate for diversity and representation in healthcare. As a first-generation, Mexican-American student, I understand the importance of having role models who reflect the communities they serve. I want to inspire other first-generation and DACA students to pursue careers in healthcare and believe in their ability to make a difference. My journey has taught me that our challenges do not define us—they strengthen us and give us purpose. Nursing is more than a career for me; it is a calling rooted in empathy, service, and hope. It allows me to blend my love for science with my passion for people. I want to be the kind of nurse who listens, who comforts, and who helps patients feel understood during their most vulnerable moments. Through my education and my future career, I hope to make a lasting impact by turning compassion into action—one patient, one family, and one community at a time. This is not just my dream; it is my way of giving back to the world that shaped me.

Being a first-generation college student has shaped my values, work ethic, and vision for my future. It means being the first in my family to turn dreams into opportunity and the first to break barriers that once seemed impossible. My parents came to this country with limited resources but unlimited determination, hoping their sacrifices would give me the chance to build a better life. That hope is what drives me every day and fuels my passion for nursing. Growing up in a low-income, Spanish-speaking household, I saw firsthand how language and cultural barriers could affect access to healthcare. My mother, who speaks only Spanish, often struggled to understand her doctors and navigate medical systems. I remember translating during her appointments and realizing how much fear came from not being able to fully communicate or be understood. Those moments inspired me to pursue nursing and become the kind of healthcare provider who ensures that every patient—regardless of language or background—feels heard, respected, and cared for. Being a first-generation student has also taught me resilience. I’ve had to navigate college applications, financial aid, and academic challenges on my own, often learning through trial and error. There were times when I felt overwhelmed, but each challenge strengthened my determination. I’ve learned that success isn’t about knowing everything—it’s about staying committed, seeking help, and believing that hard work can open doors. That persistence will guide me as a nurse, where compassion, problem-solving, and perseverance are essential. My goal is to use my education to serve immigrant and underserved communities, especially families like mine. I want to bridge the gap between patients and providers through empathy, cultural understanding, and clear communication. Nursing will allow me to combine my love for helping others with my desire to give back to the community that raised me. Being a first-generation college student isn’t just my story—it’s my strength. It has taught me that every obstacle is an opportunity to grow and that success means lifting others as you rise. My journey has given me purpose, and I plan to carry that purpose into every patient interaction as a nurse dedicated to healing, understanding, and hope.

My experiences with mental health—both personally and within my family—have profoundly shaped my beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations. Growing up in a single-parent, Spanish-speaking household, I often saw how emotional struggles were handled quietly, without much discussion. In our culture, mental health wasn’t something people openly talked about; instead, it was something you learned to “push through.” Over time, I realized that silence can sometimes be as heavy as the challenges themselves. Learning to acknowledge and care for mental health has changed the way I see others, deepened my empathy, and solidified my commitment to becoming a nurse who advocates for the well-being of the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. As I grew older, I began to understand how stress, anxiety, and emotional exhaustion affect families like mine. My mother carried an enormous weight—working long hours, facing language barriers, and caring for us while dealing with her own health issues. There were moments when the pressure in our home was palpable, and I often tried to hold everything together. Those experiences taught me that mental health is just as vital as physical health, and that compassion starts with understanding what others may be carrying silently. Through my own experiences managing stress and uncertainty as a DACA student, I learned that mental health isn’t a weakness—it’s a reflection of our humanity. Balancing school, financial pressures, and family responsibilities sometimes felt overwhelming, but seeking help and finding healthy outlets reminded me that self-care allows us to care better for others. I’ve become a strong believer that mental health awareness and access to support are essential parts of any healing process. These experiences have changed the way I approach relationships, both personally and professionally. I’ve learned the power of listening without judgment and offering empathy instead of advice. I try to be the person I once needed—someone who validates others’ feelings and reminds them that they aren’t alone. This awareness has strengthened my friendships, deepened my connection with family, and helped me build healthier boundaries. It also taught me that true support doesn’t always require answers—sometimes, it just requires presence and understanding. My journey with mental health has also been a driving force behind my career aspirations in nursing. I want to be the kind of nurse who recognizes when a patient’s pain isn’t only physical. Many patients, especially in underserved and immigrant communities, face emotional struggles that go unnoticed or untreated. I want to use my education to change that—to advocate for mental health awareness, promote open conversations, and help break the stigma that still exists in many cultures. Whether I’m caring for someone recovering from surgery or simply listening to a patient who feels scared and alone, I want to bring empathy and emotional understanding into every interaction. Mental health has taught me that healing is holistic—it requires compassion, patience, and connection. My experiences have shaped me into someone who leads with heart, listens deeply, and believes in the importance of caring for the whole person. As I continue my journey in nursing, I carry these lessons with me, determined to use them to comfort, support, and inspire others to find strength in their own healing.

Being a first-generation college student means carrying not only my own dreams but also the hopes and sacrifices of my family. My parents came to this country in search of a better future, leaving behind everything familiar to give their children opportunities they never had. As a DACA student from a low-income, Spanish-speaking household, I’ve learned that education is more than a personal goal—it’s a way to honor my family’s struggles, break cycles of hardship, and pave the way for those who come after me. The path to higher education hasn’t been easy. Growing up, I often had to figure things out on my own—whether it was navigating financial aid, understanding college applications, or balancing work and school to help support my family. There were moments when I felt overwhelmed and uncertain if my hard work would ever be enough. But every time I doubted myself, I thought of my mother. She raised our family as a single parent, working tirelessly and facing language and cultural barriers with courage and grace. Watching her persevere despite the odds taught me resilience and the importance of never giving up, even when the path ahead isn’t clear. Being a first-generation student also means redefining what’s possible. My family didn’t always understand the complexities of higher education, but they believed in me. Their faith gave me the strength to believe in myself. I’ve learned that success isn’t about perfection—it’s about persistence, purpose, and heart. It’s about pushing forward even when the odds feel stacked against you, and finding meaning in the journey as much as the destination. My dream is to become a nurse and work with underserved and immigrant communities, providing compassionate and culturally sensitive care to families like mine. I’ve seen firsthand how language barriers and lack of access can make people feel invisible in the healthcare system. I want to be the person who changes that—someone who listens, explains, and advocates for patients who need someone in their corner. Nursing is more than a career for me; it’s a calling born from my family’s experiences with illness, from translating for my mother during her thyroid cancer treatment to helping my nephew manage his type 1 diabetes. Those experiences taught me that care goes beyond medicine—it’s about human connection, trust, and empathy. This scholarship would make a tremendous difference in my journey. As a DACA student, financial support is often limited, and the cost of nursing school can feel overwhelming. Receiving this scholarship would not only ease that burden but also allow me to focus on my education and clinical training without constant worry. It would bring me one step closer to achieving my goal of becoming a nurse and giving back to the communities that shaped me. Being a first-generation student means turning struggle into strength and dreams into purpose. This scholarship would help me continue that journey—transforming my family’s sacrifices and my determination into a future built on compassion, service, and hope.

Having family members with medical challenges has profoundly shaped the person I am today and has been one of the most powerful influences on my journey toward becoming a nurse. Watching my mother face thyroid cancer and my nephew navigate life with type 1 diabetes gave me firsthand insight into the emotional and physical impact of illness—not only on patients but also on their families. These experiences taught me resilience, empathy, and the importance of compassionate, knowledgeable care. When my mother was diagnosed with thyroid cancer, my entire world shifted. As the oldest child in a Spanish-speaking household, I often found myself translating complex medical information for her during appointments. I remember the fear in her eyes when she didn’t fully understand what doctors were saying, and the relief when I helped her make sense of it. Watching her go through surgery and recovery made me realize how critical communication and trust are in healthcare. It also opened my eyes to the role nurses play—not only as caregivers but as emotional anchors for patients and families in moments of uncertainty. The nurses who cared for my mom were patient, kind, and attentive. They explained procedures clearly, offered encouragement, and treated her with dignity. Their compassion inspired me to want to do the same for others. My nephew’s diagnosis with type 1 diabetes brought another layer of understanding to my perspective on healthcare. Seeing him learn to manage his blood sugar levels, give himself insulin injections, and adjust to a new way of life was both heartbreaking and inspiring. It reminded me that illness doesn’t just affect the person diagnosed—it affects the entire family. I witnessed how much education, patience, and support were required to help him live a healthy, confident life. This experience taught me that nursing isn’t just about treating conditions; it’s about empowering patients and families with knowledge and encouragement. These personal experiences gave me a deep respect for the medical field and a clear sense of purpose. I realized that I wanted to be someone who could combine science with compassion—someone who could comfort families like mine and help them navigate difficult times with understanding and care. Nursing became more than a career goal; it became a calling. Through my family’s health challenges, I learned to stay calm in crisis, to lead with empathy, and to find strength in service. I also developed a strong desire to work with underserved populations, particularly those who face language or cultural barriers in healthcare. As someone who often acted as the bridge between my Spanish-speaking mother and her medical team, I understand how essential it is to have providers who communicate effectively and with respect for their patients’ backgrounds. My mother’s courage and my nephew’s strength continue to inspire me every day. They have shown me that even in the face of fear and uncertainty, compassion and education can make all the difference. Their journeys have shaped me into someone who is resilient, empathetic, and deeply motivated to help others heal—not only physically, but emotionally as well. Becoming a nurse is my way of honoring them. It’s how I will carry their stories forward and turn the challenges our family faced into something positive and life-changing for others.

My life experiences have shaped my career aspirations in profound and meaningful ways. Growing up as a DACA student in a low-income, Spanish-speaking, single-parent household, I learned early on the importance of perseverance, compassion, and service to others. My upbringing not only taught me resilience but also inspired my deep desire to pursue a career in nursing — a profession built on empathy, advocacy, and care. My mother has always been my greatest influence. As a single parent and an immigrant who speaks only Spanish, she faced countless obstacles trying to provide for our family and access essential services, including healthcare. I often served as her translator at doctor’s appointments, helping her understand medical terms and instructions that were not explained in her language. Watching her struggle to communicate with healthcare providers opened my eyes to the disparities that many immigrant and non-English-speaking families face. I realized how much difference it would make to have healthcare professionals who could not only speak the language but also understand the culture, fears, and values of their patients. Those experiences planted the seed for my career in nursing. Over time, I came to see that nursing perfectly combines my strengths and passions — compassion, problem-solving, and advocacy. I want to be a nurse who listens, explains, and supports patients and their families through difficult times. I want to be someone who ensures that no one feels confused or dismissed because of a language barrier or lack of access. My own family’s challenges taught me that healthcare is not just about treating illness; it’s about treating people with dignity, patience, and understanding. Growing up in a household with limited financial resources also taught me to work hard and stay focused on my goals. I learned the value of education, not just as a means to personal success but as a tool to uplift others. My mother’s sacrifices motivated me to keep pushing forward even when things felt uncertain. As a first-generation college student, I’ve had to navigate every step of the educational process on my own — from applying to college to figuring out financial aid and balancing school with work. These experiences have made me independent, disciplined, and determined to succeed. Being a DACA student has also shaped my outlook on service and community. Living with uncertainty about my future has given me a deep empathy for others who feel powerless in the face of circumstances they can’t control. It has also fueled my desire to give back to the very communities that supported me. I hope to work in community and public health, serving immigrant and underserved populations, and eventually participate in medical outreach programs that promote preventive care and health education. Every challenge I’ve faced — from language barriers to financial struggles — has given me a clearer sense of purpose. Nursing allows me to transform those experiences into something positive and impactful. My background taught me to see people for who they are, not where they come from. It taught me to meet others with understanding, to communicate with patience, and to help bridge the gap between fear and healing. Ultimately, my life has shaped me into someone who wants to turn hardship into hope. My experiences have not discouraged me — they’ve given me direction. Through nursing, I want to make a meaningful difference, honor my family’s sacrifices, and help others overcome the same barriers I once faced.

Growing up in a single-parent household has shaped nearly every part of who I am — my values, my determination, and my compassion for others. My mother raised me and my family with strength, love, and resilience, despite the many challenges she faced as a Spanish-speaking immigrant in a new country. Watching her navigate life with limited resources but endless determination taught me what perseverance truly means. She is the reason I strive to make the most of every opportunity and the person who inspired my dream to pursue a career in healthcare. My mother worked long hours to provide for us, often taking multiple jobs to keep food on the table and a roof over our heads. Even when she was tired, she never let us see her give up. As a child, I didn’t fully understand how much she sacrificed, but as I’ve grown older, I’ve realized the depth of her strength. She faced barriers with courage — from learning to communicate in a language she didn’t speak fluently to advocating for her children in systems that were often unkind or confusing. I often stepped in to translate during medical visits, school meetings, and everyday errands. Those moments opened my eyes to how isolating it can feel to not be understood, and they gave me a sense of purpose that continues to drive me today. Being raised by a single mother also taught me independence and empathy. We didn’t always have much, but what we lacked financially, we made up for in love and support. Our home was filled with laughter, shared meals, and strong family bonds. My mother reminded us that success isn’t about material things — it’s about kindness, gratitude, and hard work. She taught me to value education, to help others whenever possible, and to never let my circumstances define my future. As a DACA student from a low-income background, I’ve faced my share of obstacles, but I’ve always viewed them as opportunities to grow stronger. I’ve learned to be resourceful, to work hard for what I want, and to stay hopeful even when things feel uncertain. These lessons have shaped my character and guided me toward a career in nursing. I want to be for others what so many people were for my family — a source of support, understanding, and care during difficult times. My background has also given me a deep appreciation for community and connection. I know what it feels like to rely on the kindness of others, and I carry that compassion into everything I do. I want to use my education to give back — to serve families like mine, who may be struggling but still hold onto their dreams. My mother’s example reminds me daily that even one person’s strength can transform an entire family’s future. Growing up in a single-parent household wasn’t always easy, but it gave me the foundation to become who I am today — resilient, grateful, and determined to make a difference. My family’s story fuels my purpose, and every step I take toward my nursing degree is a reflection of my mother’s love, sacrifice, and unwavering belief in me.

Being a first-generation, Mexican-American college student is more than an academic milestone—it’s a personal and family triumph that carries deep meaning for me. My journey represents not just my own hard work, but also the sacrifices, resilience, and dreams of my parents and ancestors who came before me. As a DACA student from a low-income, Spanish-speaking household, I have experienced firsthand the challenges of navigating an unfamiliar education system while also trying to honor the culture and values that define who I am. That duality—bridging two worlds—has shaped my identity and my passion for achieving something greater than myself. My parents immigrated to the United States in search of a better future, driven by the hope that their children would have opportunities they never had. Growing up, I watched them work tirelessly, often in physically demanding jobs, to provide stability and education for our family. Their perseverance taught me that success isn’t measured by wealth or status, but by the strength to keep going despite adversity. They may not have had the chance to pursue higher education, but they instilled in me a belief that learning is a pathway to empowerment. Every time I attend a class, study late into the night, or take another step toward my nursing degree, I do it not just for myself—but for them. Being a first-generation college student comes with unique challenges. There were times when I felt lost or unsure of how to navigate financial aid forms, college applications, or even the expectations of higher education. But each challenge became a lesson in independence and determination. I’ve learned to advocate for myself, seek resources, and believe that my perspective and story belong in academic spaces—even when it feels like I am breaking barriers to be there. My experiences as a first-generation, Mexican-American student have taught me that resilience is not just about surviving difficulties—it’s about transforming them into motivation. What makes me passionate about this journey is knowing that my success represents hope for others in my community. I want younger generations of Latino and immigrant students to see that it is possible to rise above limitations, pursue higher education, and make an impact. Representation matters—when we see people who look like us achieving their dreams, we begin to believe that we can, too. I hope to be that example for others, showing that our culture, language, and heritage are sources of strength, not barriers. Graduating from college will be one of the proudest moments of my life because it will symbolize not only personal achievement but also my family’s collective victory. It will mean that my parents’ sacrifices were worth it—that their faith and hard work created a foundation for something bigger. As a first-generation, Mexican-American college graduate, I carry my culture, my family’s struggles, and their dreams with me in everything I do. That responsibility doesn’t feel heavy—it feels like an honor. It reminds me why I strive to make a difference through my education, my nursing career, and my dedication to serving others.

My journey toward nursing began long before I ever knew it would become my calling. Growing up in a low-income, Spanish-speaking household as a DACA student, I often found myself acting as a bridge between my family and the healthcare system. My mother, who speaks only Spanish, faced many challenges navigating doctor’s appointments and understanding medical instructions. As her translator, I quickly realized that language is only one of the many barriers people face when seeking care. I watched her and other family members struggle not just with medical issues, but also with the fear and uncertainty that come with not fully understanding what’s happening to your own body. Those experiences planted the seed of empathy, advocacy, and service that ultimately led me to pursue a career in nursing. My family has always been my greatest source of inspiration. Several of my loved ones have chronic medical conditions that require ongoing care, and being involved in their journeys has taught me the power of compassion and patience. I’ve seen how small acts—explaining a procedure clearly, offering reassurance, or simply listening—can make an enormous difference in someone’s life. Those moments shaped my belief that nursing is more than a profession; it’s a form of human connection. I want to be the person who provides that comfort, who helps patients and families feel safe, understood, and respected—especially those who come from communities like mine. My mother’s experiences in particular have deeply influenced my values and goals. Watching her face language barriers and cultural misunderstandings taught me the importance of advocacy and representation in healthcare. As a bilingual and bicultural individual, I want to use my voice to bridge those gaps for others. My goal is to work with underserved and immigrant populations, ensuring that no one feels dismissed or invisible because of their background. Nursing gives me the platform to make a tangible difference—to be both a healer and a source of understanding. While nursing is my passion and my purpose, I also recognize the importance of balance and joy outside of my studies. One of my greatest sources of peace comes from spending time with animals and being outdoors. I’ve always loved horseback riding—it allows me to clear my mind, build confidence, and connect with nature in a way that feels grounding. Working with horses has taught me patience, empathy, and communication without words—skills that are surprisingly similar to those needed in nursing. Horses respond to calm energy and trust, much like patients do. That connection reminds me to slow down, breathe, and be fully present in the moment. When I’m not with my animals, I find joy in being surrounded by my family and friends. They remind me of why I chose this path—to help people live healthier, fuller lives and to give back to the community that raised me. Whether we’re sharing a meal, laughing over memories, or supporting each other through difficult times, those moments keep me grounded. My family’s love and resilience fuel my determination to succeed, and they remind me of the values that guide me: empathy, perseverance, and gratitude. Nursing is not just a career I chose; it’s the culmination of everything my life has taught me. It’s about caring for others with the same compassion I’ve witnessed in my own family. It’s about advocating for those who can’t advocate for themselves. And it’s about continuing the cycle of kindness and understanding that has carried me this far. Outside of my scrubs, I am someone who finds joy in connection—whether that’s with people, animals, or the natural world. I believe that caring for others begins with nurturing balance within ourselves. For me, that balance comes from the simple things: time spent riding horses, laughter shared with loved ones, and moments of reflection that remind me why I started this journey. My family gave me the heart to care, my experiences gave me the strength to persevere, and nursing will give me the tools to make a difference. I hope to use my education and compassion to touch lives, heal others, and bring comfort to those who need it most—just as so many have done for my family and me.

An impactful Physician Assistant is more than a skilled clinician—they are a listener, an advocate, and a bridge between patients and the healthcare system. The qualities that make a PA truly effective include compassion, cultural competence, adaptability, and teamwork. These attributes not only improve the quality of care but also build trust with patients and strengthen the communities they serve. I believe that compassion is the foundation of impactful healthcare. A great PA treats patients as whole individuals, not just as diagnoses or symptoms. My compassion stems from my upbringing in a low-income, Spanish-speaking family where I witnessed firsthand the struggles of those who felt unseen or misunderstood in medical settings. I often served as the translator for my parents during doctor’s visits, and I saw how empathy and patience could make a world of difference. Those early experiences taught me the importance of listening deeply and treating every patient with dignity and respect—qualities I intend to carry with me in my practice. Cultural competence is another critical quality for an impactful PA, especially in today’s diverse healthcare landscape. As a bilingual and bicultural individual, I have a unique understanding of how language and culture influence health beliefs and access to care. I know what it feels like to navigate a system that isn’t always built for you. Because of that, I am committed to being the kind of provider who bridges cultural gaps, ensuring that patients not only receive care but also understand it. By communicating in both English and Spanish and approaching each encounter with cultural sensitivity, I can build stronger relationships and improve health outcomes in underserved populations. Adaptability is also essential in the PA profession. The field requires flexibility, quick thinking, and the ability to work across various specialties and settings. As a DACA student, I’ve had to adapt constantly—to uncertainty, to financial challenges, and to changing circumstances beyond my control. These experiences have made me resilient, resourceful, and determined. I’ve learned to focus on what I can control: my attitude, my effort, and my commitment to growth. This mindset will allow me to thrive in a fast-paced clinical environment where every day brings new challenges and opportunities to learn. Finally, teamwork lies at the heart of the PA role. PAs collaborate closely with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to provide coordinated, patient-centered care. I value teamwork because it reflects the idea that no one can do this work alone. My background in volunteer and academic settings has taught me the importance of clear communication, mutual respect, and shared goals. Whether supporting my peers, organizing group projects, or engaging in community service, I always strive to be reliable, empathetic, and collaborative. I embody these attributes—compassion, cultural competence, adaptability, and teamwork—through my life experiences and my dedication to serving others. My journey as a DACA student has shaped me into someone who is not only passionate about medicine but also deeply aware of the human side of healthcare. As a future Physician Assistant, I hope to bring these qualities to every patient encounter, building trust, promoting understanding, and making a meaningful impact in the lives of those who need it most.

Although I grew up in the United States, my heart and heritage are deeply rooted in Mexico, the country my parents call home. As a DACA student from a low-income, Spanish-speaking family, I’ve had to navigate many challenges that have shaped my perspective, resilience, and sense of purpose. My parents came to this country with limited resources but unlimited determination, and they taught me that education is the most powerful tool for creating change. Through my nursing career, I hope to honor their sacrifices by making a positive impact not only in my local community but also in my home country, where access to healthcare remains a serious challenge for many. My decision to pursue nursing comes from witnessing firsthand how language, cultural barriers, and financial limitations can prevent families—especially immigrant and rural ones—from receiving the care they deserve. I’ve seen my own parents struggle to understand medical instructions, feel dismissed by healthcare providers, and worry about costs more than their well-being. These experiences made me realize that healthcare should never be a privilege, but a basic human right. As a nurse, I plan to use my education to help create that reality, starting within my own community and eventually extending it to underserved areas in Mexico. One of my long-term goals is to participate in medical outreach and volunteer missions that provide preventive care, vaccinations, and health education to rural and low-income populations in Mexico. Many communities there lack consistent access to healthcare, and preventable conditions often go untreated simply because there are no resources or trained professionals available. By sharing the knowledge and skills I gain through my nursing education in the U.S., I can help provide much-needed care while also training and empowering local community health workers. In addition to direct care, I am passionate about promoting health education. I believe that knowledge is one of the most effective tools in improving public health outcomes. I want to help teach families about nutrition, hygiene, chronic disease prevention, and maternal health—information that can drastically reduce illness and improve quality of life. Education not only saves lives, but it also empowers individuals to take control of their health and make informed choices for themselves and their families. As a bilingual and bicultural individual, I see myself as a bridge between communities. I understand both the struggles of immigrants in the U.S. and the systemic challenges faced by those in Mexico. This dual perspective gives me a unique advantage in developing culturally sensitive approaches to care and communication. I plan to use my platform as a nurse to advocate for equity, compassion, and respect in every interaction—whether I am working in a hospital, leading a health education workshop, or volunteering abroad. My journey as a DACA student has taught me perseverance, humility, and the importance of giving back. The education I receive will not only open doors for me, but also allow me to open doors for others. Through my career, I want to create a ripple effect of hope and healing—helping improve healthcare access, inspiring future medical professionals, and strengthening communities both in the United States and in my home country of Mexico. Nursing is more than a profession for me—it is a calling to serve, to uplift, and to make a lasting difference wherever I can.

My name is Perla Angulo, and I am a proud DACA student preparing to begin the Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program at Samuel Merritt University in January. Coming from a low-income, Spanish-speaking family, my path toward higher education has not been easy, but it has shaped me into a resilient, compassionate, and determined individual. These experiences have deeply influenced my decision to pursue nursing and my desire to make a lasting, positive impact in my community. Growing up, I often served as the bridge between my parents and the English-speaking world. My parents, who speak only Spanish, worked hard to provide for our family but faced many obstacles when it came to healthcare access and communication. I vividly remember translating during medical appointments and feeling the weight of responsibility to ensure my parents understood their diagnoses and treatment plans. Those moments opened my eyes to the struggles that many immigrant families face—confusion, fear, and mistrust within a system that can feel inaccessible. They also ignited in me a passion to become the kind of healthcare professional who not only provides medical care but also ensures understanding, comfort, and cultural respect. As a future nurse, I aspire to be an advocate for patients who feel unseen or unheard. My goal is to work in community and public health settings that serve diverse, underserved populations, particularly within the Hispanic and immigrant communities. I want to use my bilingual skills to help break down language barriers and make healthcare more inclusive. Too often, limited English proficiency leads to misunderstandings, misdiagnoses, or poor adherence to treatment plans. By providing culturally competent care and clear communication, I hope to help improve health outcomes and trust between healthcare providers and patients from all backgrounds. Beyond clinical care, I want to contribute to health education initiatives that empower families with the knowledge and tools they need to take charge of their health. Preventive education, nutrition awareness, and access to mental health resources are areas where I believe I can make a meaningful difference. In the future, I hope to collaborate with local organizations to create outreach programs designed for immigrant families—programs that address the social determinants of health and promote wellness through education and advocacy. Being a DACA student has taught me perseverance and gratitude. Despite the uncertainty that often comes with my immigration status, I’ve learned to focus on what I can control: my work ethic, my education, and my commitment to serving others. Nursing aligns perfectly with my values because it combines compassion, service, and science. Every challenge I’ve faced has strengthened my resolve to become the kind of nurse who uplifts others—someone who listens, understands, and fights for equitable care. Ultimately, my dream is to use my nursing career as a tool for change. I want to give back to the community that raised me, support those who face the same barriers my family once did, and inspire other first-generation and DACA students to believe in their potential. Nursing is more than a profession to me—it is a way to heal, to connect, and to create a ripple effect of hope and empowerment in the lives of others.