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“I began college on a very different path, but the COVID-19 pandemic made me to realize that there was more I could do to serve others in my future career. After traveling to the Dominican Republic to work in healthcare clinics for sugarcane farmers with �鶹�� College, I realized my passions for healthcare and social sciences can intersect. I love that nursing allows me to connect with my community and advocate for my patients.

My mom is an alumna of �鶹�� College and has worked on the nursing staff as a clinical instructor. Growing up, I loved hearing stories about her experience as a student and all of the school traditions. When I transferred schools, I was looking for a smaller-knit community. I was nervous to make this transition, but many members of the nursing staff reached out before I had even enrolled. This warm welcome helped me to choose �鶹�� College, as I knew the support would continue through my time as a nursing student.” 

My favorite aspect of �鶹�� College’s nursing program is the size. Our small class sizes mean that I get to know my professors and fellow classmates well which creates a more cohesive working environment. Nursing is a field that relies heavily on collaboration, and I believe that the tight-knit atmosphere of �鶹��’s nursing program is helping to prepare for my future career. In larger nursing programs, it may be easy for students who are struggling to “slip through the cracks.” This is never a concern at �鶹�� because there is such a close and supportive relationship between the students and faculty. I know that my professors care about my individual success and will support me in whatever way they can.  

The opportunity to travel to the Dominican Republic with �鶹��’s Nursing and Spanish departments has also shaped my career path. Working in med clinics in the DR gave me the opportunity to strengthen my nursing and Spanish skills, and also allowed me to identify my passion for global health advocacy. I’ve been able to travel back to the DR to continue this work and I am so grateful that �鶹�� College introduced me to this specific field of nursing.” 

Mary (Libby) Heaton ‘25