To celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, UA Little Rock is profiling students who received a League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) scholarship. Meet Oreana Roman, a sophomore nursing student.

Why have you decided to go into nursing?

I decided to be in the healthcare field at a young age because I wanted to improve the health of others and especially take care of those who had no one to lean on for support. Nursing was a career that could let me help them.

What made you choose UA Little Rock?

I didn’t want my parents to pay for my higher education. It also had the best registered nurse (RN) to bachelor’s degree program.

What organizations and clubs are you involved in on campus?

I am involved in LULAC, Student Affairs Diversity Initiatives (SADI), and Student Retention Initiatives as a peer mentor for first-generation and transfer students.

What do you hope to do after graduation?

I plan to find a job at a hospital working as a pediatric nurse and possibly continue my studies to become a nurse practitioner. I would also like to share my practice with a nonprofit organization.

Why do you think it’s important to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month?

I think it is important to celebrate because we play a part in the “melting pot.” It is definitely a reminder of how much Hispanic ancestors had to sacrifice for there to be so many successful Hispanic-Americans now.

How did you first hear about LULAC, and which scholarship were you awarded?

I heard about LULAC from my sister. My initial impression was that it would be a good contribution to continue my studies.

I was awarded a scholarship of $1,000. I think I was selected because LULAC wants to help reduce the dropout rate of Hispanic students due to a lack of financial support. I am very thankful for this award because I won’t have to worry about the cost of my higher education and continue my studies to become a nurse.

How did your family react to the news that you were selected?

My parents were really proud of me and told me to continue working hard and make it pay off.