Help Fernanda attend Regis!

Hello! My name is Fernanda Martinez-Reyes, and I recently graduated from CEC Early College, a career technical education high school in Denver, Colorado. During my four years, I explored many career classes, but I fell in love with nursing. This fall, I plan to attend Regis University for their specialized bachelor’s degree in nursing. The reason why I chose nursing was because of the adrenaline rush and the ability to create a change in an individual's life. Regis is my dream school because of its Jesuit education. Unfortunately, the cost of attendance is very high for my family and me to endure. As a first-generation student from a minority background, I worked hard in high school to alleviate some of the burdens. I took 18 college classes at the local community college through concurrent enrollment to receive college credits to make my college tenure shorter to lessen the cost. As a result, I’m proud to share that I just passed my CNA exam, and I’m officially a nurse aid. I know this is the first step in my road to achieving my dream of becoming a registered nurse. 

My brother was recently in a motorcycle accident where sand and gravel swept him off the motorcycle midway through a street turn. As a result, he has a deep cut on his left knee that requires medical care twice a day. I’m so grateful for the medical education I received in high school because I took ownership to provide the medical cleaning he needs for his wound every day. This experience and practice further solidified my passion for learning more and becoming a nurse. Not only will I be the first girl to graduate with a college education in my family, but I will also be the first nurse and medical care provider in the family!

Financially, my road to college is daunting because even after all the financial aid and scholarships, I’m still very much short of paying for college. With my dad as the sole provider for a family of five and my brother unable to walk for the foreseeable future to help him out, I know that I will need to work harder than ever before, which I know I can do. I share my story to ask for your help in my pursuit of a college education. I don’t expect this to cover my cost fully, but all contributions are greatly appreciated!