Taylor Aquino, Fuld Fellow (ABS Program)

• Program: ABS Nursing
• Hometown: Buffalo, NY
• Favorite Self-Care Activity: Figure skating and yoga
• Previous Education: Bachelor of Science, Speech Pathology and Audiology, Miami University (Child Studies minor)

I have always had an inherent capacity to proudly and selflessly serve others. I accepted a job as a medical assistant at a pediatric ENT office as a stepping stone in my pursuit of becoming a speech pathologist. Through my experiences over the last five years, I took notice to my immense growth as a leader and patient educator.

Additionally, I became intrigued with the hands-on aspect of direct patient care and learning something new every day I worked. My mom is an OR nurse at Oishei Children’s Hospital and ultimately gave me the extra bit of confidence needed to catapult my decision. Mothers know best, and here I am today!

Being a Buffalo native, I am well aware of UB’s prestigious and well-respected reputation. Additionally, UB has positive, well-established relationships with local hospitals and clinics. Essentially, I wanted a comprehensive program that would provide a strong foundation and support my educational goals. I trust that the opportunities and tools the faculty and this program provide will undoubtedly drive my success as a future nurse.

Population wise, I am most passionate in pediatrics. I feel a natural connection interacting with children. Specifically, I am interested in oncology and mental health. I would love to work in either of these settings, as both are exceptionally relevant in today’s society.

A volunteer engagement with the Eric Wood Foundation provided the opportunity to work one-on-one with terminally ill children and their families. This experience left me feeling unequivocally inspired by these little warriors. To this day, I remember the overwhelming sense of sheer purpose and joy I felt being their advocate just for a day.

Furthermore, mental health is pertinent in the practice of achieving one’s best sense of self. If I can help my future patients feel emotionally empowered and supported, I will be effectively serving their overall needs.

I was a competitive figure skater for 23 years and served as a member of Miami University’s division I synchronized skating program for two years. Skating has taught me the importance of persistence, positivity and consistency in the face of fear and failure.

Additionally, I have been a long-term volunteer for Spirited Athletes Bold at Heart, an adaptive ice skating program for children and adults with cognitive, emotional and/or physical disabilities. Here, I have learned to integrate therapeutic experience, interpersonal connection and social skills.

I hope to work in a pediatric hospital setting for one year before venturing off to pursue a career as a travel nurse. I believe these new experiences in varying settings would further build and expand my skill set. Eventually, I hope to apply these experiences and the knowledge attained to further my education and become a nurse practioner.