My name is Riley Aguiar, and I’m from Cape Cod, Massachusetts. I am currently a sophomore in the College of Nursing at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth. My passion for nursing stems from my fascination with the human body, my determination to help those in need, and my experiences growing up around nurses. Having spent time in and out of hospitals due to my own medical issues, I am deeply committed to connecting with patients and making them feel safe. I grew up with an older sister and two younger brothers, both of whom are on the autism spectrum. My brothers have been my greatest inspiration, showing me how to persevere through challenges. From them, I’ve learned valuable skills such as patience, interpreting body language, and the importance of being gentle and kind. These childhood experiences have shaped me into the compassionate and empathetic person I am today, qualities that I believe will make me an effective and caring nurse.