Pronouns: She/Her
Major: Nursing
Minor: Business Administration
Hometown: Salem, Massachusetts
Student groups, clubs, organizations, jobs, internships, honors, or athletic affiliations: Center for Civic Engagement, Asian Student Association, Community Service Initiative, Math Learning Center, Alpha Lambda Delta
What made you choose Salem State, and what is one thing a prospective student should know about our campus community?
I chose Salem State because of the strength of its nursing program and the supportive learning environment it offers. The campus provides essential resources like the writing center, math learning center and tutoring services. Prospective students should know that Salem State creates opportunities for both academic success and personal growth within a diverse and supportive community.
Once you got to campus, what made you say, "This is the place for me?"
I found a strong sense of belonging through the Asian Student Association, where I could share my Filipino heritage and connect with others. The Center for Civic Engagement also gave me opportunities to advocate for causes I care about, including mental health awareness and affordable housing.
What made you choose your major? What about your area of study ignites your passion?
I chose nursing because I wanted a career where I could truly make a difference in people's lives. What inspires me most is being able to support patients and their families during vulnerable moments by providing compassionate, patient-centered care.
Do you live on campus or commute? If you live on campus, what have you enjoyed most about your experience? If you commute, how have you stayed engaged with the campus community?
I commute, but I made a strong effort to stay engaged by attending meetings between classes and participating in volunteer opportunities. Being intentional about my involvement helped me build connections and stay connected to campus life.
How have you grown as a person during your college experience?
Through my experiences as a nursing student, tutor, volunteer and civic fellow, I have grown both personally and professionally. I developed stronger confidence, cultural awareness and empathy, especially through patient care and community engagement. I also learned the importance of listening and supporting others in meaningful ways.
Can you describe a challenge that you overcame at Salem State?
One of my biggest challenges was building confidence and managing time effectively within the demanding nursing program. Over time, I developed stronger discipline and resilience, which helped me succeed academically and prepare for future responsibilities.
Could you discuss the relationships you've developed with faculty members and how these relationships have influenced your learning and personal growth?
I built meaningful relationships with faculty who were supportive, understanding and always willing to help. Attending office hours helped me work through challenges and build confidence in asking for support, which made a big difference in my academic experience.
Can you describe the educational value and affordability you've experienced at Salem State University? How has the university supported your academic journey regarding quality and accessibility?
Salem State offers a valuable and accessible education, especially as a public university. The strong academic programs, combined with supportive faculty and resources, created an environment where I could succeed and grow without feeling overwhelmed.
Salem State emphasizes hands-on learning experiences. Can you share any memorable experiences where you've applied classroom knowledge in real-world settings or through projects?
My clinical experiences in healthcare settings, including Lahey Hospital, Boston Children's Hospital, and Salem Hospital, enabled me to apply classroom knowledge directly to patient care. These experiences helped me build practical skills while reinforcing the importance of compassionate, safe and effective care.
What are your post-graduation plans, and how do you believe your time at Salem State has equipped you for success in pursuing these plans?
I plan to take the NCLEX and pursue a nursing position at Salem Hospital. My time at Salem State has prepared me by strengthening my clinical skills, professionalism and resilience. The challenges I faced throughout the program helped me grow into a more confident and capable future nurse.