Q: Please share a brief introduction about yourself and your journey so far.
I was born and raised in Las Vegas, Nevada by an incredible single mom. Growing up, I knew I wanted a career in healthcare to help people. I graduated with my Bachelor of Science in Nursing, achieving a 4.0 GPA and I am currently obtaining my Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner (MSN, FNP) hoping to specialize in women’s health.
Q: How did you know you wanted to work in the healthcare field?
I have always been passionate about science, human anatomy and the study of medicine. Learning the material came naturally to me and I genuinely loved learning the material.
Q: Let’s dig a little deeper into your journey – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Nothing worthwhile is ever easy. In school, I have sacrificed my personal life and free time for my studies. Growing up, I witnessed my mom go back to school as a single mom in her mid-forties. This gave me my motivation to continue studying. Hard work is essential to success.
Q: What do you love about being an ICU registered nurse (RN and aesthetic RN)? What inspired you to choose these specialties?
I love being an ICU and aesthetic RN because they are very different. On one hand, my strength is multitasking and critical care. On the other hand, I have an artistic eye for aesthetics.
Q: What are some of the more challenging parts of nursing?
I never expected “nurses eat their young” to be so prevalent. It is unfortunate the nursing profession has adopted the culture of bullying younger nurses until they prove themselves otherwise. It’s very disheartening.
Q: You are also a model! When did you start modeling?
I started modeling when I was 12 years old. I learned runway, speech etiquette, acting, etc. Modeling was a great way to build self-esteem and confidence.
Q: What kinds of modeling opportunities have you been a part of?
I have participated in music videos, commercials, magazines and most recently a billboard on the Las Vegas Strip. I am passionate about the creative arts so it’s an honor for me to participate in these roles.
Q: What do you love about modeling? How does it make you feel?
I love modeling because you must fully embrace who you are to portray various roles. As a model, you put yourself out of your comfort zone and continuously grow from that.
Q: What are some of the more challenging parts about modeling? How do you overcome these challenges?
The modeling industry can be unsettling. It is never easy to hear you’re not tall enough, skinny enough, etc. I have learned over the years it is nothing personal and it is common to hear more [of] “no” than “yes’” in this industry.
Q: How do you find a good work-life balance between your nursing career and modeling?
Time management and detailed planning has enabled me to pursue both. I keep a detailed calendar of all my events including work, school and modeling.
Q: What are your future plans or long-term goals?
I look forward to graduating in 2023 with my MSN, FNP and I hope to specialize in women’s health. I look forward to traveling and children someday.
Q: What advice would you give other women based on your experiences?
I would tell women they are capable of anything they set their mind to. Be courageous in your journey and don’t let failure or negativity stop you.
Q: What does “she can be both” mean to you?
“She can be both” means women can be anything they want to be. Women can be both intelligent and beautiful without having to choose one or the other. Women are capable of so much and it is time we remove the stigma of successful women.
