I knew I wanted to become a nurse when I was in elementary school. I wanted to make a difference in the quality of care patients receive and felt a career in nursing would afford me the opportunity to help patients through the most challenging moments of their lives. With several family members impacted by cancer, I was drawn specifically to oncology nursing. Oncology patients have inspired me with their courage, hope and determination.

Growing up, my mother would always emphasize the importance of getting an education. Being from a rural population, Cochiti Pueblo, a small Native American pueblo in New Mexico, I know and believe an education is essential to embody independence and hunger for knowledge. I completed my ASN (Associate in Science in Nursing) degree through Santa Fe Community College’s accelerated program in 2016 and obtained my BSN degree at the University of New Mexico in 2018.