April 25, 2024

Rock Star Award: Irene Carmel Salado

Irene is originally from the Philippines. In this blog, she shares her story about becoming a USRN with Avant Healthcare Professionals. She is also the recipient of her facility's 'Rock Star' award, which is a testament to her exemplary patient care. Congratulations, Irene! Read more about her story below...

Where are you from? Have you always wanted to become a nurse?  

Growing up in the Philippines, I was immersed in a culture that values family above all else. This upbringing instilled in me a deep sense of determination to have my family close to me as I look for ways to grow in my career. This motivated me to work in the U.S. because I wanted to bring my family over here as well.

From a young age, I always knew I wanted to become a nurse. I love caring for people when they’re sick and seeing them get well. The prospect of caring for people in their most vulnerable moments fills me with a sense of purpose. Coming from a family of nurses further fueled my aspiration to follow in their footsteps and make a difference in people’s lives.

The move to the U.S. has not only benefited my career but has also had a positive impact on my family. Through hard work and perseverance, we have been able to support our loved ones back home, especially during challenging times. The ability to give back has been a source of fulfillment for us.

Why did you decide to become a US-RN? What convinced you to join Avant?  

My journey with Avant Healthcare Professionals started in 2017 with a friend’s referral. Honestly, I wouldn’t be where I am now without Avant. They have shouldered almost everything, from helping me take the NCLEX (I never paid a single cent for my review), to the nitty-gritty details of the application process for USCIS/NVC to the grueling years-long wait for our priority dates to be current in the Visa Bulletin then finally to the embassy interview! During all of that, Avant never abandoned us. They did not stop when we arrived in the U.S. either. They made sure we were ready to live and work in the U.S. by having us undergo a 6-week cultural training program in Florida, then finally assisting me with relocating from here to Vermont, where my hospital is located. They have been a palpable presence each step of the way. It is not easy to move to another country with your family in tow, and I’m thankful to God that I have Avant as my agency.

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

Thanks to the supportive and collaborative healthcare environment, my career has flourished since moving to the U.S. I feel more empowered working where I am now. In the U.S., nurses can practice more autonomously and are seen as equal to physicians, nurse practitioners, and every other healthcare team member. Our voices are heard and considered with the end goal of providing better patient care. That makes my facility a satisfying environment to work in.
 

Receiving the Rock Star Award was a humbling experience. I can only attribute it to the crew I work with every night shift and God, who enables me to strive to do well in the work given to me. I am grateful for the recognition and motivation to strive for excellence in my work.

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

To fellow Filipino nurses considering opportunities abroad, I offer this advice: perseverance is key. Never give up. My whole USRN journey took me four years. I’ve known others who took longer than that. But the common denominator is WE NEVER GAVE UP on our dreams. Between juggling self-review for NCLEX and working full-time in the ICU, to the long wait for the Visa Bulletin and everything that follows, it was not an easy ride. However, looking back, it was all worth it. Keep your eyes on the prize, but most of all - PRAY. Achieving your goals results from determination and God’s guidance in your life. Continuously tap into your faith and surround yourself with people who believe in you and inspire you to keep going.

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!