This past year I worked as a registered nurse on a medical surgical floor at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston. I met and learned from incredible professionals working in many disciplines that welcomed and supported me as I began my nursing career. Working on a med-surg floor at a big Boston hospital, I was able to care for patients from diverse backgrounds with a wide range of illnesses, teaching me a lot about medicine, as well as different communities and cultures. I learned not only how to care for my patients physically, but also spiritually and emotionally. I found that doing what’s best for my patients doesn’t always mean prolonging life, but often preserving their comfort and dignity. While the year did not go without its challenges, I believe these lessons and others have truly helped me grow substantially as a nurse and as an individual.

Though working at BIDMC was such a great experience, I decided to move to New Jersey as my partner continues his research at Princeton University. During the process of transferring my RN license to New Jersey, I took advantage of the extra free time by fulfilling my long time dream of adopting a dog. Her name is Caramel, and she was rescued from a wildfire in South Korea. It has been so rewarding training and caring for her as she acclimates to life outside of the shelter and becomes part of our family. I now look forward to getting back to work and continuing my nursing career here in New Jersey, bringing all of my experiences and knowledge to my next job. As always, I would like to thank MVYouth and its donors for their incredible generosity that has made all of this possible.