2025 Graduate Spotlight | Mateo Flores
Loewenberg College of Nursing
A few months ago, during a challenging season of my life, I started to doubt whether I’d chosen the right career path.
I prayed for a sign from God, and the next day, I met a patient who happened to be a pastor.
He spoke words of encouragement over me that felt like confirmation: I was meant to be a nurse.
I share that experience as encouragement.
College can feel overwhelming sometimes, but that doesn’t mean you’re not on the right path. That patient reminded me of the impact I can make through nursing, especially during people’s most vulnerable moments.
After two and a half years, I’m done with all of my 12-hour clinicals, rotations and orientations.
Now I have a whole career ahead of me — a career full of opportunities to do good.
How Nursing Found Me
I didn’t always want to be a nurse.
It wasn’t until I watched nurses care for a few of my family members during their battles with cancer that I started considering it. Their compassion left a lasting impression — not just on my family members, but on all of us in the room.
I wanted to be that steady, supportive presence for others.
When it came time to choose a college, the University of Memphis stood out. I wanted to stay close to home, and I’d heard great things about the nursing program.
As a first-generation college student, I was incredibly grateful for the support and guidance I received from the University.
Memphis provided the scholarships and financial aid I needed, along with an amazing academic advisor who helped me navigate every step.
I’ve been a proud Tiger ever since.
Through my coursework and clinical rotations, I’ve learned from some of the best instructors while developing the confidence and skills I’ll need in the field.
The journey hasn’t been easy, but I’ve had the support of my family, friends and professors every step of the way.
Leading with Compassion
Throughout my clinical experience, I’ve been honored to receive several DAISY Award nominations — a national recognition for compassionate care.
While I couldn’t officially receive the award since I’m not yet licensed, those nominations still mean a lot.
But to be honest, I don’t think I do anything extraordinary. I just treat people the way I’d want my own family to be treated.
One of those moments came during a snowstorm.
An older gentleman’s wife couldn’t make it to the hospital, and he told me how lonely he felt.
I made it a point to spend extra time with him — sitting with him, talking, just being there. I fell behind on some tasks that shift, but I knew what mattered most in that moment was helping him feel less alone.
Instances like that remind me why I chose this profession. For me, it’s never been about recognition — it’s about kindness, empathy and showing every patient that they matter.
The faculty at the University of Memphis taught us to go the extra mile, which I carry with me every day.
What Comes Next
After graduation, I plan to start my career in pediatric nursing at Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital.
Eventually, I hope to work at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital as a pediatric oncology nurse — a dream that combines my passion for children’s health with my commitment to compassionate care.
I’ve also thought about going back to school one day to become a pediatric acute care nurse practitioner or even a nursing instructor. But for now, my focus is on finishing strong and earning my degree.
To any young or first-generation student out there: Don’t let fear or comparison stop you.
It’s normal to feel uncertain — especially when you’re figuring everything out for the first time. But you’re not alone. Your goals are possible. You can do this.
Ask questions. Be curious. And don’t measure your journey against anyone else’s — we all come from different starting points and have different resources. Most importantly, stay rooted in your “why.”
For me, it’s about caring for others and showing my younger siblings what’s possible.
I’m grateful to the University of Memphis Lambuth for helping me get here — and I’m ready for whatever comes next.
