Maria Arriaga, one of The Orphaned Starfish Foundation Scholarship recipients from Mexico is now entering her fourth semester in nursing school and has shared the significant growth and learning experience that she has experienced. This period of her academic journey delved into specialized areas including cardiology, nephrology, and pneumology, providing her with a deeper understanding of complex medical conditions and the corresponding nursing care. While the coursework demanded double the effort—first mastering the physiopathology with physicians and then learning the nursing applications—Maria embraced the intensity with passion and curiosity. Among the subjects, cardiology left a lasting impression, igniting in her a potential calling for future specialization.

This semester, Maria trained in two vastly different clinical settings. Her first placement was at a hemodialysis clinic, where she engaged in some of the most hands-on experiences of her studies. She educated patients about their conditions, assisted with wound care, managed dialysis connections, and even performed functioning of a fistula. These tasks built her confidence and showed her the importance of precision, compassion, and presence in long-term care. Her second placement, at El Hospital Naval de Alta Especialidad, placed her in more acute care environments, including intermediate care and the ICU. There, she encountered a deeply emotional moment: a critically ill patient she recognized from a previous rotation. Despite the patient’s unconscious state, Maria remembered her face, her name, and the care provided. The encounter reaffirmed the power of nursing care and motivated her to continue learning with even greater purpose.

Introduction to New Things

This semester also marked an emotional and symbolic celebration: the “Imposición de Cofias,” a traditional ceremony that signifies reaching the halfway point in nursing school. During the event, a message resonated with Maria:

“In the midst of our patients’ suffering, we are called to be a glimpse of heaven. Through our compassion and presence, we don’t just provide care—we become a living expression of God’s love.”
 
Maria remains deeply grateful for the support she has already received. Her academic achievements and dedication are reflected not only in her grades but in the compassion and skills she brings to every clinical setting.

The Orphaned Starfish Foundation is proud of Maria and all of her accomplishments so far. Creating this opportunity for her couldn't be made possible without the support of those who believe in building bridges that connect students with success. If you want to support students like Maria, please consider donating to our scholarship fund.

Join our movement and learn what we do and how you can get involved with OSF at www.osf.org.