Jenine Hamoudeh

My grandma whispered to me in Arabic, "In the name of God, the Most Merciful, Gracious, and Kind," as I helped her prepare for another hospital visit. At the age of 15, I stood at her side for nine months as she heroically battled Glioblastoma cancer. Even though she was physically weak, her words showed her incredible strength and deep faith. My grandma, my source of warmth, knowledge, and faith, died soon after. Her dedication and compassion made a permanent imprint on my heart, prompting me to devote my life to assisting others with the same understanding and generosity she shown. Based on my Islamic principles, I seek to live out the virtues of kindness, modesty, and service to others in whatever I do. Whether I'm working as a barista, volunteering as a teacher's assistant, or currently serving as a CNA, I approach each duty with the goal of spreading the compassion and caring that my grandmother instilled in me. Islam teaches that even a smile is a form of charity, and I've seen this in my everyday contacts. A warm smile, a few consoling words, or speaking to a patient in Arabic to make them feel understood and valued—these small gestures honor my grandmother's heritage and the power of our shared religion.My faith has molded my perception of nursing as more than simply a profession, but a divine calling. Islam lays a strong focus on helping others, caring for the ill, and offering kindness to all living things. These lessons ring true as I prepare for a career as a nurse. My grandmother's battle and the deep lessons she taught me about perseverance and love demonstrated the transformational power of care—both physical and emotional. In every patient engagement, I strive to preserve these beliefs, acknowledging that acts of service are both a professional and spiritual obligation. Even though I have not yet obtained my RN licensing or BSN, I am already referred to as "the nurse" in my family. As I begin my shift as a CNA, I softly say Bismillah (In the name of God), a reminder that my profession is more than simply a job; it is a job driven by faith and compassion. With every patient I care for, I try to commemorate my grandmother's memory and the ideals she instilled in me. I am prepared to meet the call to care for others in their time of need, bringing love, strength, and empathy that they deserve.

• Advocate Christ Children's Hospital

• Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification - American Heart Association.
• Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) - State Boards of Nursing.

PCRF UIC: 2023- current

PNSO UIC: 2024- current