Nursing Mentor Program

 

Hello, my name is Kayleen Olvera. I am a 4th semester ABSN student. I have been interested in healthcare my whole life. I’ve always wanted to know how I can help people and make their lives better. I graduated with a bachelor’s in psychology from USC in 2021. I decided to go to nursing school for a more hands-on career. I plan to continue my education and become a nurse practitioner. I love being a mentor because any support in nursing school goes a very long way, and I hope I help students realize they are not alone.

My learning style is multimodal, which means I learn best when incorporating visual, auditory and kinesthetic techniques. My favorite method to study is to watch short YouTube videos on specific topics and take written notes on top of a typed outline. This helps me reinforce information I already know and add details I may have missed. I like to manage 

 

My name is Yrene Rivas, and I am currently a fourth-semester traditional BSN student. My passion for nursing began nearly seven years ago when my older sister started nursing school and would come home to teach me the pathophysiology behind different diseases, along with the importance of holistic, patient-centered care. Those early conversations sparked my interest, and receiving the Luminary Scholarship further solidified my commitment to pursuing nursing. As a kinesthetic learner, I learn best by actively engaging with the material through hands-on practice, simulations, and applying concepts in clinical settings, which has helped me build confidence as I continue progressing through the program.

Nursing school has challenged me in many ways, but I have learned to approach difficult moments with resilience and discipline by breaking my workload into manageable goals, asking questions early, and using available resources like study groups and faculty support. Looking ahead, my personal goal is to keep strengthening my clinical skills and leadership while staying grounded in compassionate care. Long-term, I plan to pursue my master’s degree in nursing and become a Family Nurse Practitioner. I’ve been incredibly blessed by the encouragement of my friends, family, and professors, and because of that, I hope to give back by being a mentor who supports and guides others the way I have been supported.

 

armando.garces01@utrgv.edu

My name is Armando Garces III, and I am in the third semester of the accelerated nursing program at UTRGV. My previous education includes a Bachelor of Science in Biology and a Master of Science in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. I was involved in research and leadership programs that helped me develop professional skills essential to my growth as a student nurse. I have always dreamed of working in the healthcare system, and the nursing program was the perfect opportunity to pursue that goal. I strive to make a positive impact on the health of our community, and I plan to continue preparing myself for the future. For now, my main objective is to become a compassionate and knowledgeable nurse who ensures patient safety and wellbeing.

ismael.adame01@utrgv.edu

Hello! My name is Ismael Alejandro Adame, but my friends call me Alex. I am a third-semester ABSN nursing student in the UTRGV School of Nursing, and I have been a mentor since my second semester. I originally graduated from UTRGV in 2021 as a medical laboratory scientist at the age of 20. Since then, I gained three years of medical laboratory experience through multiple hospitals in the valley as I attempted to get into PA school. My favorite department in medical laboratory settings has to be the blood bank. The adrenaline rush of having to give life-saving products without causing a reaction is unlike anything else.

A little over a year ago, a friend who graduated from the UTRGV School of Nursing suggested the NP program, and now I am here chasing that dream — but of course, I have to become a nurse first and gain my bedside experience. My medical diagnostic background has helped me tremendously in this new path, but I am also working hard to become the best nurse I can be, just like everyone else here.

I enjoy guiding others both inside and outside of the mentorship program, and anyone who lets me nerd out for a bit instantly has my stamp of approval! I hope I can help you in whatever way you need. I'm always available. See you in the mentor room!

ismael.nunez01@utrgv.edu

Hello everyone, I am Angel Nunez, and I am in my fourth and final semester at UTRGV. I’ve also served as a peer mentor for three semesters, including this current semester. I chose nursing because I want to combine compassion with care, making a real difference in people’s lives. Becoming a peer mentor gave me the opportunity to support fellow students, share what I’ve learned, and continue growing as a leader within the nursing community. I look forward to helping you succeed, and I wish you all well in your nursing journey!

My name is Natalie Acosta, and I am a traditional BSN student at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV). I’m from Mercedes, Texas, and I am the middle child in a family of five. My family is my greatest support system and constant source of motivation, and they’re the reason I push myself every day to stay focused and do my best in everything I do. My decision to become a registered nurse wasn’t inspired by a single moment or event, but rather by a profound passion that has always been a part of who I am. I’ve always known that I wanted to dedicate my life to caring for others, and nursing quickly became the perfect path for me. I consider it a true privilege to support and care for those who are sick or in need, and I’m grateful every day to be pursuing a career that aligns so closely with my values and purpose. I’m also a proud recipient of the Luminary Scholarship, which is a full-ride award that has made my education at UTRGV possible. It’s an opportunity I deeply appreciate, and it motivates me even more to work hard and give back in any way I can. Beyond the classroom, I currently work as a nurse extern at Rio Grande Regional Hospital, where I continue to gain hands-on experience in patient care and grow in both my skills and confidence. Looking ahead, I plan to further my education and become a Family Nurse Practitioner. I’m drawn to this role because it combines advanced clinical expertise with a strong focus on patient-centered care, allowing me to take a more active role in diagnosing, treating, and managing patients’ health. Eventually, I also hope to earn my Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) to expand my clinical leadership, and enhance my impact in the healthcare system. Nursing school has already given me so much—from valuable knowledge and clinical skills to meaningful life lessons and lasting friendships. I am honored to serve as a nurse mentor, a role that allows me to support fellow students by offering advice, study tips, and guidance through coursework. I’m truly excited for the opportunity to give back and help others succeed in their journey, just as others have supported me in mine.

My name is Helena Lara, and I am a dedicated 4th semester nursing student at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, where I’ve not only been working toward my BSN but also actively contributing to the success of my peers and my community. For three semesters, I’ve proudly served as a peer mentor, supporting fellow nursing students by sharing resources, study strategies, and encouragement during one of the most challenging academic journeys they’ll take.

Alongside my education, I work as a nurse tech in the Clinical Decision Unit (CDU) and Emergency Room at DHR, where I have the opportunity to apply my skills in fast-paced, high-acuity settings. This role has sharpened my critical thinking and strengthened my commitment to patient-centered care.

I chose nursing because it blends science, compassion, and purpose — three values I hold deeply. Growing up, I always knew I wanted a career where I could make a tangible difference, and nursing allows me to meet people at their most vulnerable moments and help them regain strength and dignity. I chose to become a peer mentor for the same reason: to be the person I once needed — someone to guide, motivate, and remind others that they are capable of achieving this dream.

Hi, my name is Edith Chavez, and I am a 4th semester accelerated BSN student. I earned my first degree in psychology with a minor in sociology and philosophy. My interest in nursing grew after watching both of my parents navigate health challenges, which showed me how important it is to have nurses who are compassionate, patient, and strong advocates. I learn best through hands-on practice, active recall, and teach-back. I love learning and believe that staying curious is an important part of becoming a strong nurse. Nursing school is challenging, but I truly believe that staying organized, consistent, and committed to your success makes anything possible. Challenges are inevitable, and I remind myself that mistakes are part of the learning process. Moments when I have made mistakes stay with me and help guide me to do better in the future. After difficult days, I take time to reflect and remind myself to be kind to myself, and I lean on my support system, because without the encouragement of my family, friends, and peers, getting through nursing school would not be possible. After graduation, I hope to work in the emergency department or another critical care setting, and I plan to continue my education by pursuing an advanced practice nursing degree. I chose to become a peer mentor because I want to support other students and remind them that they are capable, even on the hardest days of nursing school.

 

Hi! My name is Elizabeth Fina and I’m a 3rd semester student in the traditional BSN program. From a young age I always knew I wanted to work in healthcare, and I specifically have a passion for working with children. A personal goal of mine is to work in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) and eventually become a Family Nurse Practitioner. I have been blessed with an amazing support system, and I want to give back by being a part of other students’ support system as well.

As a peer mentor I hope to encourage other nursing students, help them feel more confident, and remind them that they are capable of succeeding even when nursing school feels challenging. Personally, I don’t have one single learning style. Instead, I use a combination of strategies, including repetition, typing information out, teaching myself concepts aloud, and watching educational videos. My best advice is to take nursing school one day at a time, it’s a marathon, not a sprint. Living by this has helped me be successful so far and I’m excited to share all the tips and strategies I've learned! 

 

Hi, my name is Fernando Gabriel Delgado, and I’m a 4th‑semester traditional BSN student. I currently work in the Emergency Department, where I’ve been able to apply what I learn in the classroom to real patient care and gain valuable experience in a fast‑paced clinical environment. Being part of the nursing program while working in healthcare has helped me grow in communication, teamwork, and clinical confidence. 

Nursing school definitely comes with challenges, but I’ve learned to manage them by staying organized, asking for help when I need it, and maintaining a positive mindset. Balancing coursework, clinicals, and work has strengthened my resilience and time‑management skills. My goal is to graduate as a registered nurse, gain experience in critical care, and eventually pursue advanced practice as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA). 

As a peer mentor, I hope to be someone students feel comfortable approaching for support, encouragement, and practical advice throughout their nursing journey 

 

My name is Ronika Galvan, and I am a 4th semester ABSN student at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences, along with a double minor in Human Development and Family Sciences & Psychology from Texas State University in 2023. Since then, I have been working in a hospital as a Unit Clerk and Certified Nursing Assistant in the Labor and Delivery department, where I gain valuable hands-on experience in a fast-paced, patient-centered environment. I chose nursing because I’ve always wanted a career where I could care for people in a meaningful way, especially women during some of the most important moments of their lives. After graduation, I plan to work as a Labor and Delivery nurse and obtain my RNC-OB certification. My long-term goal is to return to school to pursue a career as a Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner, where I hope to continue advocating for and supporting women throughout all stages of life.

My learning style is very visual, and I learn best by using concept maps to break down information and see how everything connects. When nursing school gets challenging, I try to stay organized, adjust how I study, and reach out for help instead of struggling on my own. Mentoring has always been a big part of my nursing school journey, and having mentors to guide and encourage me made a huge difference. I hope to be that support for other students and remind them that they are capable, not alone, and can get through nursing school one step at a time. I wish everyone the best throughout their nursing journey!

 

Hello, my name is Camille Parawan. I am a 4th semester traditional BSN student. Through nursing school, I’ve been able to get experience in several departments in different clinical settings, such as Medical-Surgical, Intensive Care Unit, Emergency Room, Labor & Delivery, Pediatrics, Operating Room, and many more.

I use active recall and teaching as a way to learn. For the past 3 years, I have worked with many university-level students to help them find their best study method as both a mentor and leader through the UTRGV Learning Center. While assisting others discover their learning and organization styles, I have been able to learn more about myself as well.

Starting nursing school comes with a learning curve. I have learned that nursing school is not something that you can do alone. Whether it is from family, friends, or classmates, you need support! My goal as a peer leader is to be a part of your support and help you learn your style of learning and organizing yourself. My academic goal for this semester is to finish strong and obtain my RN license. As an RN, my goal is to get more experience and come back to UTRGV for further education. My long-term goal is to become an educator in the medical field.

 

Hello! My name is Kayla Gutierrez, and I am a 2^nd semester nursing student in the traditional BSN program. Since I can remember, I knew that I had a passion for healthcare. Once I entered the program, I truly began to grow in appreciation for the role of being a nurse. I am very grateful for all the opportunities I have been given and for my support system.

My learning style is a combination of visual, auditory, read/write, and kinesthetic tactics. I like to watch videos, listen to lectures, use active recall, take notes, and manually practice my nursing techniques.

After my 1^st semester, I learned to handle challenges in nursing school and clinical settings. Time management and reducing anxiety are two personal challenges I faced. Talking to professors truly helped me open my eyes to a different, calmer perspective when handling challenges. After becoming a future RN, my personal goal is to become a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist and continue my education to a DNP level. My goal is to also become a nurse educator and use my knowledge and clinical experience to help shape future nurses.

 

Hi! My name is Jim Aica Tolentino, and I’m a 4^th semester ABSN student at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. I graduated with my Bachelor's of Science in Biology with a minor in Business Management. Through volunteering and clinical experience, I realized that nursing best fits my personality, strengths, and how I want to show up for my patients. I’m incredibly passionate about serving my community and supporting those who are in need. After graduation, I plan to work as a nurse in the ICU where I can apply my critical thinking skills and advocate for my patients at the highest level. After gaining experience, I plan to continue my education to become a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA).

As a learner and mentor, I learn best when using diagrams, visuals aids, and active recall to test my knowledge. I find this strategy helps break down the disease processes and nursing interventions. Nursing school is demanding, so having a great support system and reminding yourself of your “why” is key to getting through it. My goal as a student mentor is to create a supportive space that will help students feel encouraged, empowered, and confident in their abilities as they continue to pursue their nursing journey. I’m looking forward to working with everyone and wishing everyone the best!

 

My name is Andres De Leon, and I am a third-semester nursing student currently working toward my BSN. As I progress through the nursing program, I am building a strong foundation in patient care, critical thinking, and clinical skills, while actively preparing for a future career in critical care nursing, specifically in the ICU.

My learning style is hands-on and structured, and I learn best through practice, repetition, and reviewing material with others. Teaching and reviewing concepts helps reinforce my own understanding, which is one of the reasons I am passionate about becoming a peer mentor. This approach has helped me stay organized, retain complex information, and perform confidently in both academic and clinical settings.

When faced with challenges in nursing school or clinical environments, I focus on time management, adaptability, and seeking support when needed. I break down difficult material into manageable parts, ask questions, and reflect on feedback to continuously improve. In high-pressure situations, I remain calm and focused, prioritizing patient safety and teamwork.

My academic goal is to successfully complete the nursing program with strong clinical competence and leadership skills. As a future registered nurse, I aspire to work in the Intensive Care Unit, where I can provide high-quality, evidence-based care to critically ill patients while continuing to grow professionally and advocate for my patients and peers.

 

Hi everyone! My name is Leslie Martinez, and I am a second-degree BSN student starting my second semester. I earned my first bachelor's degree in biology, and working as a nursing assistant on a cardiac floor for almost three years has given me a real look into what nursing is like. Being in that environment showed me how much nurses truly do for their patients, and it played a big role in my decision to pursue nursing because of the hands on and holistic care nurses provide.

My learning style is a mix of staying organized and learning by doing. I do my best when I can review material ahead of time, break things down into simple concepts, and then apply them through practice questions or real-life situations. When nursing school or clinicals feel overwhelming, I try to remind myself that it is okay to struggle and ask for help. Staying consistent, using my resources, and leaning on others has helped me push through tough weeks. My goal is to build a strong foundation throughout nursing school, and in the future, I plan to pursue my master’s degree and continue growing as a nurse. This is my first semester as a peer mentor, and I am excited to support other students because nursing school is not something anyone should feel like they must do alone.

 

Hello, my name is Bethany Najera, and I am a fourth semester traditional BSN student. My love for nursing began while watching my grandmother (a dialysis nurse), take on busy days at the clinic. As I was eager to gain hands-on experience, I volunteered at Valley Regional Medical Center as a student-shadow in the post-partum unit. Eventually, I was able to begin clinicals in the nursing program where I gained even more knowledge of the mother-baby units, which are my personal interests. 

I have found that I learn best through visual methods and rely heavily on tables, organized notes, and focus more on truly understanding the material rather than just memorizing it. This approach has helped me connect concepts and apply them more confidently in both coursework and clinical settings. When I face challenges in nursing school, I try to slow down and understand the situation and possible outcomes instead of panicking. I also make self-care a priority by taking time each week to rest and recharge, which helps me stay focused and motivated. My academic goal is to finish this semester strong, and as a future RN, I hope to begin my career in labor and delivery. Long-term, I plan to continue my education and become a certified nurse midwife.

 

Hello! My name is Camila Hinojosa, and I am a third semester traditional BSN nursing student. Since I was about 12 years old, I knew I wanted to pursue a career in healthcare. My interests have changed a lot throughout the years, in elementary school I thought I wanted to be a doctor, but some years later I landed to the conclusion that what I was truly interested in was nursing. Around this time, I spent a lot of time in the hospital because my grandfather was ill. He got various surgeries in the span of two years and had difficult recoveries. Seeing the care nurses put into making sure my grandfather was well stable and comfortable motivated me to pursue a nursing career.

It is known that nursing school is difficult; it has a very rigorous curriculum and requires discipline and determination to excel. I have encountered many challenges in these past two semesters, like learning how to answer NCLEX-style questions and applying this knowledge into clinical practice. I have a multimodal learning style which means that I learn better by combining different resources in my studying. I find that watching videos in combination with reading the textbook helps me understand concepts better. The end goal

 

Hello! My name is Audrey Silva, and I am a Traditional BSN student currently in semester 2 of the nursing program. I am a visual/auditory learner and learn best through visual video demonstrations and concept mapping. I also rely heavily on NCLEX-style practice questions once I familiarize myself with the material to help me apply what I’ve learned and strengthen my critical thinking skills. This approach has helped me better understand course material and feel more confident when preparing for exams and clinical experiences.

When I face challenges in nursing school or in clinical settings, I try to stay organized, ask for help when needed, and learn from feedback. I believe that every challenge is a chance to grow, and I use those experiences to improve my skills and confidence. My academic goal is to successfully complete the BSN program while continuing to build strong clinical and communication skills. As a future RN, my goal is to provide compassionate, patient-centered care and to keep learning so I can make a positive difference for my patients and the healthcare team.

 

Hi, my name is Mariella Gonzalez-Davila, and I’m a 4th-semester Accelerated BSN (ABSN) student. Throughout nursing school, I’ve gained more confidence in myself, my communication, and my ability to connect with others. I recently stepped away from working to fully focus on school, because my priority is understanding the material deeply so I can apply it safely and effectively as a student nurse now and as a licensed RN in the future. I learn best through repetition, practice questions, and breaking down difficult concepts into simpler steps. Teaching or explaining material out loud also helps me learn, which is one of the reasons I’m excited to be part of the Peer Mentoring Program.

Nursing school is definitely challenging, but I’ve learned to handle it by staying organized, managing my time, and pushing myself even when things feel overwhelming. I remind myself that hard work and dedication always pays off, and the satisfaction of seeing improvement makes every hour of studying worth it. My goal is to graduate as a registered nurse, gain experience in critical care, and eventually pursue aesthetic nursing as a side job while continuing to work bedside. As a peer mentor, I hope to create a welcoming and supportive environment where students feel comfortable asking questions, never judged, and encouraged to keep going, because no one should feel alone while trying to succeed in nursing school.