Matt DiStasio, Fuld Fellow (ABS Program)

portrait of Matt DiStasio.

About Matt

  • Program: ABS Nursing
  • Hometown: Buffalo, NY
  • Favorite Self-Care Activity: Jogging or playing guitar
  • Previous Education: Bachelor of Arts, English, Canisius College

Why nursing?

After graduating with my English degree in 2013 I entertained many career options, including famous musician, National Park trail builder, wildland firefighter and sea kayak guide. After moving back to Buffalo from the West Coast and working as a server for some time, a couple of friends that were in nursing school unintentionally rekindled an interest in medicine I had lost touch with earlier in my undergraduate career. At the beginning of 2017, I enrolled in Anatomy and Physiology [courses] and also volunteered for a few months that summer in the ED at Buffalo General. Since then, my interest in nursing and health care has continued to grow, and I am excited to learn more about the different niches of the nursing world.

Why UB?

I selected UB for my nursing education because as a Buffalo native, I was aware of the school's well-respected reputation in the city's expansive medical community. Before I applied to the SON's ABS program, I took several prerequisites at UB and quickly grew to love the school's positive learning environment and diverse community. 

Areas of Interest

As I am only in my second semester of clinical rotations, I feel like my interests have changed from week to week. This week I am most interested in Labor and Delivery. My interest in Labor and Delivery was sparked after I had the privilege to shadow an incredible nurse at Oishei Children’s Hospital. Between the variability of tasks and the amazing things that take place when a health care team comes together to deliver a new life, I think Labor and Delivery would be a challenging yet rewarding nursing specialty. 

Activities and Accolades

When I am not studying, I enjoy jogging, swimming, yoga and reading. I started playing guitar at the age of 12 and have enjoyed learning other instruments throughout my life, including bass, piano, drums, banjo and ukulele. I love to travel when I can find the time and have been to India, the Philippines, South Korea, Japan, and several states in the Western and Southeastern United States. Most recently I have also volunteered for SON events such as the Million Hearts screenings and flu clinic.

What's Next

After graduating next May I hope to starting working as an RN in one of the local hospitals as soon as I pass the NCLEX. After getting a couple years of work experience, I would love to go back to school to be an advanced practice nurse.

Grateful

This award has been integral in helping me achieve my academic and professional goals by allowing me to take time off of work and focus my energy on getting the most out of my nursing education. As many of us receiving this award have debt remaining from our previous education, the gift of a scholarship is greatly appreciated and, for me personally, a source of motivation to continue the hard work that has gotten me to where I am today.