Ernesto Lazaro Sarduy, DNP

My grandmother was diagnosed with Hepatitis C in the early 2000s, and I went to many doctor's visits and appointments with her. That's when I first drew an interest in the profession of nursing. I knew I wanted to be in the nursing field because of how they treated my grandmother. At the age of 17, I joined the Marine Corps, and I served on active duty from 2009 to 2013. When I was deployed to Afghanistan, I suffered a concussion and a traumatic brain injury. After I completed my four-year contract and was honorably discharged, I still wanted to pursue my goals, and I was able to accomplish everything that I set my mind to. I began my studies in nursing at FIU. I also pursued my master's degree, and then I decided to finish my doctorate in nursing as well. My experience with Florida International University was second to none. The faculty were superstars, and they molded me into the professional I am today. I had a very pleasant and professional experience at FIU Nursing from start to finish. Being a nurse is my way of giving back because I work with veterans, and that is very rewarding to me.