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My name is Andrea, though most people call me Andie. I was born and raised in San Antonio, Texas.

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My journey to becoming a nurse practitioner began during my time at Texas Tech University in Lubbock, Texas. Initially, I was studying to become a pharmacist, but a personal experience with a nurse practitioner changed my path. After developing asthma and non-allergic rhinitis, I was confused and frustrated, as I exhibited allergy symptoms without being allergic to anything. The nurse practitioner at the allergy and asthma clinic took the time to explain, using the bed paper to illustrate how my mast cells weren't producing histamine, which explained why antihistamines weren’t effective for me. Her dedication to ensuring I understood my condition and felt comfortable inspired me to switch my major to nursing. My goal is to make my patients feel as supported and informed as I did, ultimately improving their compliance and health outcomes.

Fun Fact: I went to college with Patrick Mahomes.

Fun Fact 2: I had the opportunity to attend a medical mission trip with my school to Peru. It was an amazing life changing experience.

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After college, I moved back to San Antonio and worked as a new grad nurse in the ICU for two and a half years. I then became a travel nurse and moved to San Diego where I worked in an ICU float pool for one year.

Fun fact: While I was living in San Diego, I met my now fiancé.

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After one year in San Diego, I moved to Los Angeles where I worked in an ICU float pool at Cedars Sinai hospital. I decided at this point that I did not want to be a travel nurse anymore and I started working as a staff nurse in an outpatient PACU with UCLA Health.

Fun fact: My fiancé proposed last Sunday.

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In 2023, I took a significant step toward fulfilling my dream of becoming a nurse practitioner by enrolling at HPU. After graduation, I plan to gain valuable experience in a primary care setting, with the ultimate goal of practicing in a state where I can establish my own practice. Although I don't live in Honolulu, I try to visit as much as I can because it is my happy place.