Megan

Growing up below the poverty line in the Bronx with thirteen brothers and sisters was challenging. When I was fifteen, my father was let-go from his immigration firm and the whole family was forced to help. I was able to find part-time work at a local dry cleaner which paid a mere six dollars per hour. I knew that we needed more income so I dropped-out of high school to work full-time. Even with the income from 60 hours per week, we needed more and I knew that there was a better way. So, I enrolled in GED classes with the hopes that I could put myself in a better situation to support my family. At seventeen I received my GED, the same time I discovered that I was pregnant. To protect the health of my unborn child I was left with no other choice but to resign. With the unattractive thought of becoming the typical teenage mother on welfare, I enrolled at the College of Staten Island in pursuit of a better life.   

Though my family and I still struggle, my father has become an independent immigration consultant. We are now fortunate to live above the poverty line. Rising from poverty and being a single mother has inspired me to become a healthcare professional, thus providing me with the means to aid others in need. As a nursing student, I am gaining the knowledge and skills to provide others with one-on-one patient care, education on wellness and quality of life, and serving as a primary health care provider. Upon graduating, I anticipate returning to school to earn my master’s degree as a nurse practitioner, and eventually open my own medical practice.

Growing up in poverty often creates a grim view of the future. With the guidance and support of the mentor coaches, volunteers, and staff at NYNY, I know I will gain knowledge and experience that will assist in the development of my career as a nurse practitioner.  Thanks to this program my family and I have nothing but a bright future ahead of us.