On May 7, 2012, when Theresa passed away, I knew that I wanted to honor her memory by emulating the nurses who cared for her. Their professionalism, emotional support and compassion motivated me. If I can make that kind of difference in the life of just one patient, it will fill my own life and work with meaning.
I was inspired to become an Aggie by classmates and teachers at my high school, St. Michael’s Catholic Academy in Austin. During Theresa’s illness, they supported our family by organizing fundraising events to help with medical bills. When she was in the hospital, the entire school dressed in purple, her favorite color, and held a sign outside of the school that said, “We love you, Theresa,” and sent a photo to our family. In so many ways, they tried to lighten our load. It left such a strong impression on me that I knew I wanted to find a close-knit community at college. It only took one campus visit to confirm that Texas A&M had the type of caring and supportive environment I sought.
In the nursing program, we attend class year-round for two years, including summers. When I’m not in class or clinicals, I spend my free time studying or working with Fish Camp and Aggie Belles, a women’s leadership and service organization. I wouldn’t trade any of it, but the passion and time commitment required for all of these activities can be overwhelming.