Hi! My name is Ruby Krotine, and I am a freshman at the University of Pittsburgh studying Nursing. I am from Sewickley, Pennsylvania, about 30 minutes outside of Pittsburgh. I have an older sister who is a sophomore at Cornell University and a younger brother and sister who are still in high school. In my free time, I love to read—my current obsession is anything written by Kristin Hannah, and I am currently reading The Nightingale. I also enjoy staying active, especially when it involves spending time outdoors. At Pitt, I am a member of the Club Lacrosse Team and Comfort for Cancer, a student organization that makes blankets for children with cancer.
I have always known that I wanted to work with children. Growing up, I spent years babysitting my younger siblings, neighbors, and working at various summer camps. What drew me to nursing is the unique blend of scientific knowledge, patient advocacy, and compassionate care. Nursing offers the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in patients’ lives during their most vulnerable moments. After earning my BSN, I plan to continue my education by pursuing an MSN-NP in either Pediatrics or Neonatal care.
This summer I will be studying for two weeks in Birmingham, UK! I am beyond excited to learn about the United Kingdom, sightsee, and try lots and lots of food! I hope this global experience will broaden my perspective on public health issues, health disparities, and access to resources. The opportunity to learn about the UK’s National Health Service, observe nurses and educators in clinical and community settings, and examine how race, gender, ethnicity, and sexuality shape health outcomes will help me become a more equitable and culturally competent future nurse.