Name: Carolina Gomez
Age: 24
Hometown: Dalton
High school: Northwest Whitfield High School
Major: Nursing BSN
Expected graduation date: Spring 2018
Why did you choose Dalton State? Initially, I chose Dalton State because I wanted to stay close to my family. I chose to continue my education here because it offered one of the best nursing programs in the state of Georgia. With all of the memories and friendships I have made, I cannot picture myself anywhere else.
What do you plan to do after graduation? I plan on working as a registered nurse as soon as I graduate. One of my dreams is to attend Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine where I aspire to graduate as a pediatric surgeon.
Who is/was your favorite professor and why? I have met a significant number of incredible professors at Dalton State. There is one in particular who has made a tremendous impact in my life. Deb Richardson, one of my nursing professors, has been a mentor since the day I met her. As a nursing student, it is fairly easy to lose faith in oneself, but she supported me and continues to do so. For that, I am eternally grateful.
What activities are you involved in on campus? I currently serve on SGA as the Senator of School of Health Professions, which I have held for two consecutive terms. I am also the chapter president of Alpha Omicron Pi, one of the sororities on campus!
What are some of your biggest achievements or accomplishments at Dalton State? One of my biggest accomplishments has been graduating with an associate degree in nursing with Cum Laude honors. I have also been blessed to be a Dalton State Foundation Scholarship recipient for the past four years.
Where is your favorite study spot? Starbucks! Anyone who knows me knows that I practically live there.
What is the last book you read? The last book I read was ‘Me Before You’ by Jojo Moyes
Favorite comfort food? Popcorn, chocolate and ice cream are my go-to snacks for sure!
If you had a theme song, what would it be? ”Rise Up” by Andra Day
What is your guilty pleasure? I love playing Mario Kart on Nintendo 64. Actually, I love all Mario games.
If you could only keep five possessions, what would they be? Phone, laptop, dog, my favorite pillow and an unlimited gift card to Starbucks.
What is a skill you’d like to learn and why? Well I own a guitar, so if I could actually play it, then that’d be nice!
What cheers you up? Spending time with my family, friends and sorority sisters brighten up my day almost immediately. They are my support system. I don’t know what I would do without them.
What is your favorite app? Netflix! I have this amazing skill called binge watching.
Where is your favorite place to eat? Anywhere that has good chicken! Preferably Chick-fil-A.
What did you want to be when you were a kid? I changed my mind often as a kid, but the one I remember most vividly is a teacher. I would sit my parents down and have them take ‘tests’ that I created. I don’t think I ever ‘taught’ them the material. I just expected them to know what I was testing them on.
What does it mean to you to be part of the Roadrunner Nation? Being a part of the Roadrunner Nation means having the opportunity to make an impact. We are encouraged to push ourselves and to pursue something bigger than us. The faculty is willing to catch us and build us back up if we do not succeed on our first try, and that’s not something everyone can say about their institution. This unwavering support system is what makes Dalton State our home away from home.