Where Are They Now: Bernie Reyes

July 12, 2023

Bernie is originally from the Philippines. In this blog, he shares his story about becoming a USRN with Avant Healthcare Professionals! 

Where are you from? 

I am from the Philippines but worked in the Middle East for many years.

Why did you decide to become a US-RN? 

It was my long-time dream to become a US-RN, even back when I was in my senior year of high school, because what I thought before was, "I would be able to buy everything for my family and would go to places that I only see in the postcards."

What convinced you to join Avant Healthcare Professionals? 

Before joining Avant Healthcare Professionals, I signed up with another staffing agency. Eventually, I declined their offer as they could not assure me of my choice of specialty, so when I learned about Avant from a friend, I researched and became interested in their program and reputation. True enough, I was not wrong with my decision to sign as the process went well, not perfect, if I may add. Still, Avant helped me throughout my journey, from the application procedure until I was deployed to my assigned facility. 

How was your Avant experience? What's your favorite part of the program? 

My experience with Avant was one of a kind; that's why I love to share with my friends and family what I've been through. Avant's program was amazing; from the pre-departure preparation to my last day, Avant was there to guide me and ensure everything was all set. My favorite part was the transitions program, where I not only refreshed my skills but I made a lot of new friends. There was never a dull moment with my flatmates, even from Day 1, and until now, we're still in contact. They were like my brothers from different mothers.

Where were you placed, and why did you convert to the hospital's full-time staff? 

I was deployed in the dialysis unit of a US facility in Arizona. My orientation process was smooth, and I could adjust to the work environment, and my co-workers were all nice, especially my director. My orientation lasted only two weeks as I had a very knowledgeable and nice preceptor. I requested to be transferred to the other campus of the facility I was initially assigned, where I was given opportunities to learn different skills. For many years, I only stuck myself in the dialysis department when there's still more, like Apheresis modalities. I was even trained for the Stem Cell collection. I decided to convert full-time as I don't see any reason for leaving as I still have more room to grow.

How have you integrated with your community? 

I had no difficulty adjusting to the new community, as living in another country was not new to me. The people here are nice and appreciative. I lived alone for one year while waiting for my family to join me. During those times, I spent most of my time working so I would not feel sad and kept my faith in God that everything would happen in His own time.

How has your life changed living and working in the US? 

Working and living here in the US greatly impacted my life. I felt trapped for many years, and I realized I could do better here in the US. I saw many opportunities to grow, not just personally but professionally. I learned to appreciate how good life is if you work hard, surround yourself with good people, and always stay positive in everything you do. I was away from my family for how many years, and this place gave us a chance to be together without fear that we would part ways again. Gone are those days when I would stay for a few weeks and leave them again; now, I can see a better future ahead of us, not just for me but for my entire family.

What is your current title, and what are you doing now? 

Before my contract with Avant ended, I took the certification exam for nephrology nurses, and fortunately, I aced the exam, so I was hired as a Level 4 RN.

Any advice to international nurses about coming to the US to pursue their American dream? 

My advice to the international nurses who dream of working in the US is to keep going despite whatever hindrances, denials, exam expiry, or retrogression come your way. You should continue to pursue your dream. As I said, God has His plan and timing. We must keep holding on, believing in ourselves, and trusting in the process. Do not let the opportunity pass; as they always say, it only knocks once.

Avant Healthcare Professionals is the premier recruiting and staffing specialist for internationally educated healthcare professionals. When you join the Avant Healthcare Professionals program, you have entire teams of experts dedicated to your success in the USA! Take the first step toward your new life and a new career. Apply today to find out if you qualify to be part of this exclusive program. You could be working in the U.S. in as little as 12 months!