Volunteering at The YMCA Community Health Resource Fair has been such a rewarding experience, and I’m incredibly grateful to the San Diego Association for Men in Nursing (S.D.A.M.N.) for the opportunity to be part of it each month. Being able to get outside of the classroom and into the community has allowed me to apply hands-on nursing skills like blood glucose testing, blood pressure checks, and pharmacy education, all while working alongside an interdisciplinary team of nurses, physicians, pharmacists, and community health advocates. More than anything, it has reinforced how critical accessible healthcare and preventative outreach are in building healthier communities.

What stood out to me the most is how even the smallest interaction—a quick screening, a conversation, or simply pointing someone toward the right resources—can make a real impact. Beyond the clinical skills, this experience has deepened my understanding of how trust, education, and advocacy shape patient care. Nursing isn’t just about treating illness; it’s about meeting people where they are, making them feel heard, and empowering them to take charge of their health. Every time I leave this event, I feel even more inspired and motivated to grow as a nurse. My cup is full, and I can’t wait to continue being part of this work!

Kaleena Jezycki
UCLA Physiological Science, B.S., 2023
USD, MEPN, 2026