Uploaded March 2025 | Updated September 2026, 1 week ago
Aaron Fregoso, a first-generation nursing student at ETSU, has dedicated his college journey to serving others. Through ETSU’s College of Nursing program, he gained hands-on experience in clinical rounds, working alongside experienced healthcare professionals and learning to provide compassionate, patient-centered care.
One of his most impactful experiences was serving veterans at the James H. Quillen VA Medical Center, where he saw firsthand the power of nursing to change lives. His passion for healthcare, combined with the support of faculty and mentors, has helped him define his “why," a commitment to making a difference in patients’ lives. As a first-generation student, Aaron didn’t just dream of becoming a nurse – he made it a reality and discovered his purpose to go beyond.
Beyond the hospital and classroom, Aaron is also a proud member of the ETSU Marching Bucs, where he plays trumpet. In November 2024, less than two months after his community in Unicoi County, TN, faced devastation from Hurricane Helene, Aaron and the Marching Bucs took the national stage at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Performing in Herald Square was more than just a moment of pride—it symbolized resilience and hope for the people back home.
Watch Aaron’s story and see how ETSU has helped him exceed expectations to serve, inspire and lead.
#ETSU #BucsGoBeyond #NursingStudent #CollegeofNursing #MarchingBucs #MacysParade #FutureNurse
Find Your Fit at ETSU:
College of Nursing
Apply:
www.etsu.edu/admissions
Scholarships offered by College of Nursing:
Nursing Scholarships
Follow East Tennessee State University
facebook.com/etsu
twitter.com/etsu
instagram.com/etsu
linkedin.com/school/east-tennessee-state-university
Aaron Fregoso, a first-generation nursing student at ETSU, has dedicated his college journey to serving others. Through ETSU’s College of Nursing program, he gained hands-on experience in clinical rounds, working alongside experienced healthcare professionals and learning to provide compassionate, patient-centered care.
One of his most impactful experiences was serving veterans at the James H. Quillen VA Medical Center, where he saw firsthand the power of nursing to change lives. His passion for healthcare, combined with the support of faculty and mentors, has helped him define his “why," a commitment to making a difference in patients’ lives. As a first-generation student, Aaron didn’t just dream of becoming a nurse – he made it a reality and discovered his purpose to go beyond.
Beyond the hospital and classroom, Aaron is also a proud member of the ETSU Marching Bucs, where he plays trumpet. In November 2024, less than two months after his community in Unicoi County, TN, faced devastation from Hurricane Helene, Aaron and the Marching Bucs took the national stage at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Performing in Herald Square was more than just a moment of pride—it symbolized resilience and hope for the people back home.
Watch Aaron’s story and see how ETSU has helped him exceed expectations to serve, inspire and lead.
#ETSU #BucsGoBeyond #NursingStudent #CollegeofNursing #MarchingBucs #MacysParade #FutureNurse
Find Your Fit at ETSU:
College of Nursing
Apply:
www.etsu.edu/admissions
Scholarships offered by College of Nursing:
Nursing Scholarships
Follow East Tennessee State University
facebook.com/etsu
twitter.com/etsu
instagram.com/etsu
linkedin.com/school/east-tennessee-state-university
