Hello! My name is Valerie Ruiz, and I am currently a nursing student at the University of South Florida. I am thrilled to share that this fall, I will be studying abroad in Valencia, Spain! This opportunity excites me not only because of the beautiful landscapes and rich history of Spain but also because I am eager to immerse myself in the vibrant Spanish culture.

As a young Latina from the United States, this trip is particularly meaningful to me. I am committed to enhancing my Spanish language skills during my time abroad to connect more deeply with my cultural roots. My goal is to gain a better understanding of the Spanish-speaking community, which will be invaluable in my future career as a nurse.

I believe that improving my communication skills in Spanish will enable me to provide more empathetic and effective care to patients who may feel marginalized due to language barriers. By ensuring that I can communicate clearly with patients who are not fluent in English, I hope to create a more inclusive healthcare environment where everyone feels understood and valued. Thank you all for your generous donations; they mean a lot to me and encourage my pursuit of a Bachelor's degree in nursing!