Nursing Wasn’t My Plan—Until It Was

July 21, 2025

This Filipina nurse began her journey in uncertainty—and went on to receive the DAISY Award in the U.S. for her compassionate care. 

When I was a kid, my understanding of nursing was pretty simple. I thought it meant wearing a white uniform, giving injections, taking care of sick people, and helping midwives deliver babies. 

I remember visiting a medical clinic and watching nurses care for all kinds of patients—an elderly person, a child, a pregnant woman, a mother holding a baby. I noticed how the nurses treated each one with care, and how the patients smiled and thanked them afterward. That left an impression on me. Even as a child, something about those moments made me think, I want to do that too. 

But I also knew nursing school was expensive. Growing up in poverty, I didn't think it was something I could pursue. So, I let go of that dream and planned to study Business Administration instead. 

Then something unexpected happened—my aunt offered to support my college education, specifically to take up nursing. I hesitated. I had already started imagining a different path, and I wasn’t sure how I really felt about nursing anymore. Still, I accepted the opportunity. 

Everything changed during my second year of nursing school, when I was assigned to the delivery room and assisted with my first birth. In that moment, it felt like everything aligned. I remember the deep satisfaction I felt while helping the mother and baby. That experience brought me back to the dream I had as a child—and helped me realize that nursing was the right path after all. 

The Decision to Move 

I won’t sugarcoat it—one of the biggest reasons I came to the U.S. was to earn more and support my family. But that’s not the only reason. I also wanted to grow as a nurse. I knew I needed more exposure and experience, and moving to the U.S. was a step toward expanding my knowledge and skills. 

Finding Avant Healthcare Professionals 

I discovered Avant through a social media ad. But it was my friend Brennie who helped me realize Avant was the right choice for my journey. I had already passed my exams, so I called her to ask about the next steps. She had gone through the process and recommended Avant because they helped her every step of the way, especially with the paperwork and guidance. 

Facing the Challenges 

Moving to America hasn’t been easy—but I’m grateful Avant prepared me for what to expect. They gave us information about culture, banking, and how daily life works here. Still, no amount of preparation can fully ease the emotional side of migration. The hardest part is missing my loved ones back home. I’m still working through it, but I’m finding comfort in the community I’ve built here—my friends, my boyfriend, and regular calls with family. I’ve also found peace in small hobbies like gardening, drawing, walking, and reading. 

Growing as a Nurse 

I’ve been here for almost a year now, and I can say that I’ve grown—both in knowledge and in skill. While many procedures are similar to what I learned back home, the approach and execution are often different here. I’ve also encountered diseases I’d only read about in books. Now, I get to apply what I know and learn from real-life cases every day. 

The Impact on My Family 

Working in the U.S. has allowed me to help my family financially—but it’s more than that. I’ve also shared what I’ve learned with them, especially when someone gets sick. And through our conversations, they’ve become more curious and open to different cultures. It’s like they’re also learning and growing through my experience here. 

Being Honored with the DAISY Award 

The DAISY Award is one of the most meaningful recognitions a nurse can receive. It stands for compassion, kindness, empathy, and excellence in care. It honors the sacrifices and heart that go into this profession. To me, receiving this award wasn’t just a personal achievement—it was a reflection of every patient I’ve helped, every challenge I’ve faced, and every step I’ve taken since the beginning of this journey. 

To Aspiring US-RNs 

If you dream of becoming a nurse in the U.S., know that it takes adaptability, resilience, and courage. This journey will test you—physically, emotionally, and mentally—but it’s worth it. You’ll grow not just in your career, but also as a person. 

Life here isn’t always like the movies. There are challenges: adjusting to a new culture, missing the comforts of home, navigating unfamiliar systems. But it’s also a place where you can chase new dreams and discover new parts of yourself. 

I’m not saying this to discourage you—I just want to be honest. America isn’t all bright lights and big cities. It’s also about working hard, staying focused, and holding on to the reasons you started in the first place. Whatever your “why” is, let that keep you going—not just for yourself, but for your family and the future you’re building.