Everyone can agree that your first step in anything is never easy. Leaving what has been home for all my life is not easy. But Rhode Island College made the process easier. RIC is the perfect distance, I’m far enough to have my space, but close enough to go home whenever. Stepping on campus with tears in my eyes went from such a scary feeling to a feeling of comfort. RIC gave me the rural comfort from back home but also gave me a city for when it's time for a break. During my first semester away, I was able to experience such amazing yet scary experiences while being challenged both academically and emotionally. Though this semester came with many challenges, I couldn’t be more happy and thankful for going through those challenges. MVYouth gave me an opportunity to chase my biggest dream since I was a kid. MVYouth was something I didn’t think was possible for me. I applied with so many nerves sure that maybe I wouldn’t move forward, scared of what would come next. But I couldn’t thank MVYouth enough for the amazing opportunity and support. Though nursing school is far from easy, realizing that I’m one step closer is my motivation.