JOSE MARTINEZ-ZEPEDA

JOSE MARTINEZ-ZEPEDA '26

NURSING

Empowered by Compassion, Driven by Purpose 

 

Jose Martinez-Zepeda '26 always knew he wanted to be in the healthcare field. As a child, his frequent trips to the hospital were intimidating, but the care and compassion shown by the nurses left a lasting impression.   

These experiences fueled his passion for nursing, a career where he could provide the same sense of safety and comfort to others in their time of need. Today, his determination and commitment to his goals have only grown stronger. 

Navigating college life, especially as a first-generation student, can be overwhelming. The academic pressures, combined with financial strains, have made his journey particularly difficult. However, thanks to his scholarship, he now has the financial support to continue his education. 

“Knowing that others believe in me motivates me to continue working hard towards my goals,” he says. “This scholarship has not only alleviated financial stress but has also opened doors for me to continue making a positive impact on campus.” 

Through his role as secretary of the LatinXcellence Club, Martinez-Zepeda has the chance to give back to his community and ensure that others like him have the support they need to thrive. The financial support he has received has also inspired him to explore new opportunities, including becoming a resident assistant and tour guide, where he can further contribute to the campus community. Knowing that others believe in me motivates me to continue working hard towards my goals. This scholarship has not only alleviated financial stress but has also opened doors for me to continue making a positive impact on campus.

Martinez-Zepeda's time at Regis has been transformative, instilling in him the core values of love and service to others. His experience during a clinical placement at the West Roxbury VA Medical Center, where he connected deeply with a veteran, reinforced his commitment to nursing and reminded him of the human stories behind every patient.  

“During a time filled with stress from trying to balance school, work, and home life, this experience reminded me why I wanted to become a nurse,” Martinez-Zepeda says. “It also showed me how patients are not just a list of symptoms and medications—they are human with their own experiences and backgrounds.”

As he looks forward to passing the NCLEX and beginning his nursing career, Martinez-Zepeda is driven by a deep desire to help those in need and to pay forward the generosity that has made his education possible.       

 

 

 

Read the full 2023-2024 Annual Report on Philanthropy.