Nurtured by Faith, Shaped by Experience: My Path to Nursing

Nursing was always part of my life—my parents, aunts, and church community were all nurses. I grew up understanding their dedication and compassion, but my decision to pursue nursing came from within. 

My “why” emerged during my senior year of high school, when my experiences as a patient gave me a new perspective. Those moments, both positive and challenging, shaped the way I wanted to care for others. Small acts of empathy and kindness I received inspired me to treat patients as people, not just cases. To become that kind of nurse, I sought a university whose values aligned with mine. The University of San Francisco stood out, especially for its Jesuit values of compassion and care for the whole person, which aligned with my Christian faith. 

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I loved USF’s peaceful setting and the sense of community on campus. Its diverse clinical placements at hospitals like Kaiser Permanente, Stanford, and UCSF provided hands-on experience that shaped my journey.

Nursing school was transformative and required perseverance. It pushed me beyond memorization—I had to think critically, adapt, and build confidence. The program challenged me academically and personally. There were long nights spent studying, tough exams, intimidating skills labs, and the struggle to balance school with life. Finding supportive friends helped me thrive, and some became lifelong companions.

Over time, I learned nursing school wasn’t about perfect grades; it was about learning to think like a nurse, advocate for patients, and make safe decisions. My professors and the SONHP staff were always supportive, encouraging me to ask questions and seek help—a crucial lesson for compassionate nursing. My faith also carried me through. Leaning on God gave me strength and perspective when things got tough.

As my confidence grew, I wanted to give back. I became a peer tutor for core courses and a teaching assistant in the simulation lab, helping other students develop clinical skills. My senior preceptorship in Stanford’s Emergency Department further built my confidence. With the support of my professors, I made the Dean’s Honor Roll all four years, graduated Magna Cum Laude, and passed the NCLEX on my first try.

To future students: It’s normal to feel overwhelmed and scared. Always ask questions, no matter how small. Find your group—people who support you. Don’t compare your journey to others. In clinicals, take every chance to learn and always be yourself. Through nursing school and life, hold on to who you are.