Nina, the adrenaline junkie by Francesca Antonina Talja

where am I really from??

fattalja — 2022-01-04 08:51:47 UTC

Born and raised in Mindanao specifically in Makilala, North Cotabato, a town known for its natural hot springs, scenic mountain views, and as one of the gateways to Mount Apo, the highest peak in the Philippines. I’m the middle child of Marie Hazel Talja and Rey Talja, and I’d say my life is pretty a blend of both their passions. From my mom, I inherited a love for medicine and from my dad, a deep appreciation for fitness and discipline. It’s a fusion that’s shaped how I see life and how I approach challenges with care, focus, and a whole lot of drive.

i love trading comfort for elevation

fattalja — 2022-01-04 08:54:44 UTC

One fact about me is that I spend most of my rest days doing adrenaline-pumping activities like climbing mountains, free diving, and playing sports. I’ve always believed that movement clears the mind. Whether it’s reaching a summit, diving into deep blue waters, or sweating it out on the court, these moments remind me to stay grounded, adventurous, and grateful. Most of all, it keeps me healthy, physically, mentally, and emotionally.

Catch me somewhere between the sky and sea

fattalja — 2022-01-04 08:56:05 UTC

This was a photo of me practicing equalization during a freediving session and honestly, I had never felt more at peace. In freediving, staying calm isn’t just helpful, it’s necessary. It teaches you to quiet your mind, listen to your body, and breathe with intention. What made this session even more special was that I got to share it with my friends. I brought them along, and we all ended up having such a great time together.

i love the rush and calm

fattalja — 2022-01-04 10:31:51 UTC

Despite my bold, adrenaline-fueled personality, there's still a big part of me that loves slowing down. I enjoy dressing up, going to cozy cafes, and feeling pretty.

I can jump off cliffs one day and sip iced lattes in a sundress the next. Just because There’s something empowering about embracing both, being wild and grounded, strong and soft, daring and delicate. Because at the end of the day, I’m not just one thing, I’m a little bit of everything, and I love living in that balance.

my family

fattalja — 2022-01-04 10:32:38 UTC

There are a lot of things that bring me joy but one thing that undeniably brings me joy is spending time with family. Nothing can compare to this because, even when all of my worries are piled up, I can quickly be sidetracked while I'm with my family. I can't imagine life without them.

the endddd

fattalja — 2022-01-04 11:15:24 UTC

that’sss basically how I see life, and how I live it as a nursing student and an adrenaline junkie. I believe life isn’t meant to be lived in just one lane. Some days are for scrubs, clinicals, and late-night study sessions; other days are for chasing sunsets, jumping into the unknown, and feeling your heart race for all the right reasons.

Hello Sir Ian! I am Nina Talja

fattalja — 2022-01-04 11:19:10 UTC

you probably think i may look familiar sir since 1st year you have been my prof and always happy to be one of your students

Hi! I’m Francesca Antonina Talja (but call me nina in short) a hardworking, passionate, and committed nursing student at Ateneo de Davao University. I was born in Kidapawan City and currently live in Davao City to pursue my nursing degree with hopes of becoming either a doctor or a nurse anesthetist in the future (still deciding!).

a meaningful experience with an older adult

fattalja — 2025-07-19 15:33:02 UTC

One meaningful experience I had was with my grandfather, someone whose quiet strength and deep wisdom always grounded me. He used to share stories about his younger days traveling through mountains on foot, working long hours, and finding joy in life’s simplest moments. He lived humbly, but with purpose, and often told me, "Life is meant to be experienced, not rushed, not feared, just embraced."

That line stuck with me, and in many ways, it shaped how I live today. I’ve always been drawn to adventure, whether it’s freediving, hiking, or chasing that adrenaline rush, not to escape life, but to experience it more fully. My grandfather taught me that courage isn’t just in doing wild things, but in facing life head-on, whether it's through challenges in school or the unknowns out in nature.

His lessons gave me the confidence to explore, to take risks, and to stay grounded while doing it. So even as I chase thrills and live boldly, I carry his words with me, as a reminder to live with intention, humility, and heart.