Samantha Leiva Cordova

Samantha Leiva Cordova, a Freshman Direct Admit student at Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing, is driven by her aspiration to become a Labor and Delivery nurse and make a transformative impact in the health care field.

Her decision to pursue nursing stems from a lifelong interest in health care, deeply influenced by her observations of her grandparents' experiences with nurses in Chile.

The compassionate care that her grandmother received and the support the nurses in Chile extended during her grandfather’s passing left a lasting impression on Samantha, motivating her to pursue a profession that embodies empathy and healing.

A recipient of the Kelly Strul Emerging Scholars, Lamplighter, Support Our Scholars and Bright Futures 75% Scholarships, Samantha is a first-generation student resolute in her mission to lead the charge towards constructive transformation in her nursing journey.

“I aim to be a catalyst for positive change," she remarked. “I envision guiding my little sister, who shares an interest in the medical field, through the learning process. By leveraging my experiences, I hope to contribute to creating a supportive environment for aspiring health care professionals, fostering growth and knowledge within the community.”

She stated that her high school teacher, who spent 30 years as a nurse before transitioning to teaching, was an impactful mentor in her journey to nursing.

“Since I didn't have family members in health care, her guidance and encouragement played a pivotal role,” Samantha said, adding that despite initial uncertainty about her career, she feels grateful for the invaluable source of inspiration her teacher provided.

During her nursing studies, Samantha dedicated a significant amount of her time to community service. Most of her volunteer hours were contributed through on-campus organizations, notably "First and Proud," focusing on the success of first-generation students.

Additionally, when in Orlando, she volunteers at Give Kids the World, a non-profit organization catering to children with terminal illnesses.

“These experiences have enriched my understanding of community care and reinforced my commitment to making a positive impact,” Samantha added.

After graduation in 2027, she hopes to land her dream job at Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women and Children in Orlando, where she aspires to work as a Labor and Delivery nurse. She also envisions embracing the adventure of being a travel nurse and gaining diverse experiences.

“Ultimately, I aim to further my education by pursuing a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree to contribute more profoundly to the field,” she said.