Growing up, I was taught to always prioritize my family. When I was younger, this looked like cheering on my sibilings at various sporting events, helping each other with homework, and working alongside my brother at the local BBQ restaurant. However, as I grew up, I've realized that prioritizing my family legacy will look very different in my future.

Several years ago, my 64-year-old grandmother was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. After enduring years of chemotherapy and formidable treatment plans, she lost her fight to cancer. Just months later, my oldest brother, just fifteen years-old at the time, was diagnosed with stage 3 brain cancer. During his first brain surgery to remove his cancerous tumor, the neurosurgeon deemed the tumor inoperable. However, months later, the surgeon returned to my family, asking for another attempt at this surgery. In this second brain surgery, the surgeons miraculously removed the whole tumor, meaning my brother was now cancer-free and healthy.

In my grandmother's situation, I learned about the tragedy and loss within healthcare. However, from my brother's medical miracle, I experienced the hope and comfort that medicine can bring. These experiences have led me to become who I am today. Now when I am asked the dreaded question, "What do you want to be one day?" it is obvious to me. I want to help save lives. I want to help deliver cures. I want to one day tell a family that their fifteen year-old son is going to survive.

At the University of Texas, through the Nursing program and the Forty Acres Scholars program, I will have the resources and community to begin my journey in helping others.

Major:
Nursing

Honors Program:
Nursing Honors

Other Academic Interests:
Minor in Spanish

What drew you to the Forty Acres Scholars Program?
The Forty Acres Scholars Program fosters a unique environment that focuses on community, connection, and discovery. I greatly value the community within FASP because it has allowed me to walk into college with a close-knit group of friends that I can rely on and create meaningful relationships with. The connection aspect of the FASP will allow college students like me to create a network of passionate alumni and students that will benefit our future careers. Finally, the discovery aspect of the program prioritizes that students can gain new perspectives through global experiences. This aspect is very significant, as it allows for a nuanced approach in one's education. These three core values allow any student with all the resources and abilities to succeed in their career and provide charity back to their community.

What makes your scholar cohort unique?
My scholar cohort is unique in that all of our personalities are very distinct, allowing us to create a strong bond in our friendships. In addition, each member of my scholar cohort is very intentional and enthusiastic about taking advantage of FASP's opportunities.