Name: Kate Meccia   Â
Year: Sophomore   Â
Hometown:Â Valparaiso
Major: Nursing       Â
1. You spent the fall semester in Ireland!! What was the most eye-opening experience you had?
Aside from the whole having independence in another country thing, I arrived at a place where everything was new. I’ve always been comfortable with myself, but Ireland helped me rediscover who I am, as well as what I value and stand for. Everyday, I discovered a little more regarding myself. Ireland is such a beautiful and special place, and I learned to enjoy the little things in life. I also visited some family members who live there and had such a great time! It was really nice to spend time with everyone and to experience home-life in Ireland with the people I love.
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2. What’s your all-time favorite movie?
This might sound dumb, but it’s a knock-off Netflix film called Stitches. My best friends and I would watch it and crack up every time. It’s hilarious.
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3. You’re a nursing major! What inspired you to choose this career path? What type of nurse would you like to be?
My sophomore year of high school I acquired a rare, life-threatening infection after having knee surgery. Because of this, I spent a lot of time in hospitals getting treatment. My family members were definitely my biggest supporters, but when they couldn’t be there the nurses were. There were times when a nurse would come in and just hold my hand and pray with me, and that was such a touching experience. They cared about me and for me as a person. I wasn’t just another sick patient. My experience would not be the same without the kindness that the nurses treated me with. I really want to help people in the way that they helped me. Because I was young when this happened, I’d like to work in pediatrics (little kids are the best!)
4. How do you maintain those fierce and flawless curly locks of yours?
Ha, I love this question. Well, in the morning I just get my hair a little wet, use a bit of Pantene in the shower, the rest is just good genetics from my mama! I also like to go au naturel, none of that straightening stuff.
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5. Who is one person that never fails to make you smile?
My mom. She has the funniest things to say and knows me best.
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6. Do you have any fun plans for spring break?
 Yes!! I am going to the Dominican Republic with my boyfriend and best friends. It’s gonna be so much fun!
7. Looking back on the last 20 years, what is the greatest challenge you’ve faced, and how did you overcome it?
I’d have to say that the greatest challenge I’ve faced was the infection. Going back to my surgeries, I was on crutches for four months and couldn’t attend school. When something like that happens, you really learn to take one day at a time. I would just get out of bed and focus on what needed to be done for that day. This might sound cliché, but I also learned not to take simple aspects of life, such as walking, for granted. Sometimes you never realize how wonderful the little things are until they are gone. My family, friends and faith gave me strength during this period. My family and friends provided endless love and support. My faith showed me that God wouldn’t give me anything that I wouldn’t be able to handle.
8. How has Saint Mary’s contributed to the young woman you are today?
I love the opportunities that SMC has provided it’s students with. The college truly focuses on helping students achieve their life goals, and professors always go the extra mile to help you out. Honestly, the people I am surrounded by have greatly contributed to the woman I am today. The beautiful young women that I am blessed to call my friends have inspired me on so many levels. I couldn’t imagine Saint Mary’s without them.