July 14, 2025

Healthcare Heartbeat is a show produced by Avant Healthcare Professionals for international healthcare professionals and hospital leaders. In this podcast, we hear from Sara on the top things to know when interviewing with Avant Healthcare Professionals.

In This Episode...

In this inspiring episode of Healthcare Heartbeat, we follow the remarkable journey of Daniel Egypto, a seasoned emergency room nurse from Brazil who became a U.S. citizen through Avant Healthcare Professionals. With over 18 years of experience in nursing and five years practicing as a U.S. RN, Daniel opens up about the emotional highs, the professional challenges, and the deeply rewarding milestones he encountered, from passing the NCLEX and English proficiency exams to adapting to a new culture and achieving his dream of U.S. citizenship. This episode is a powerful testament to perseverance, faith in the process, and the opportunities that await international nurses in the United States.

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Topics We Cover 

A Calling to Care: Daniel’s Early Inspiration and Nursing Career

For Daniel, nursing wasn’t just a career choice—it was a calling rooted in a desire to help people during their most vulnerable moments. Inspired by a family member who was a nurse, Daniel began his career in Brazil, where he spent over a decade in the emergency room. His extensive clinical experience and passion for caregiving laid the foundation for his next big step: pursuing nursing in the United States.

Despite the demands of emergency medicine, Daniel reached a point where he felt the need for a new challenge. That’s when he discovered Avant Healthcare on social media, captivated by the success stories of other international nurses who had made the leap. Their experiences inspired him to take action and trust in a journey that would change his life forever.

From Application to NCLEX: Trusting the Avant Process

Daniel described the application process with Avant Healthcare as both thorough and deeply supportive. Unlike other companies, Daniel felt a personal connection to his recruiter, who checked in regularly and genuinely cared about his well-being and progress. This human touch was a critical part of what made his transition feel manageable and encouraging.

Preparing for the NCLEX was another milestone in Daniel’s journey. Through Avant’s structured preparation program—featuring online classes, mock exams, and knowledgeable instructors—Daniel passed the NCLEX on his first attempt. His advice to other international nurses is simple: “Go through the Avant program. You will feel confident and prepared.”

Language, Immigration, and Adapting to a New World

One of the most daunting parts of Daniel’s journey was overcoming the English language barrier. Coming from a Portuguese-speaking country, he had to build his English skills from the ground up. With Avant’s language support resources, Daniel successfully passed his English proficiency exam, gaining not just eligibility for U.S. practice, but also the confidence to communicate effectively.

Like many nurses today, Daniel also had to endure the uncertainties of retrogression and a lengthy immigration process. He credits Avant Healthcare for helping him manage the stress through consistent updates and transparent communication. “Manage what you can,” Daniel advises, “and trust Avant to handle the rest.”

Transitioning to Life and Nursing in the U.S.

Arriving in Orlando marked the beginning of a new chapter for Daniel. The Avant Transitions Program helped ease his cultural and clinical adjustment by offering support in everything from understanding the U.S. healthcare system and navigating technology, to practical life skills like getting a driver’s license and driving in snow.

Clinically, Daniel had to adapt to a more protocol-driven, technologically advanced healthcare system. He embraced the learning curve and appreciated Avant’s focus on preparing nurses for real-world practice. The structure and support helped him build confidence in his ability to advocate for patients and work independently in his new environment.

A Full-Circle Moment: Citizenship, Family Life, and Paying It Forward

Daniel recently achieved U.S. citizenship—an emotional milestone that symbolized the culmination of years of dedication. Reflecting on the moment, he described it as “closing the cycle” and a “home run.” Now firmly rooted in the U.S., Daniel enjoys a healthier work-life balance, more quality time with his family, and the freedom to explore outdoor adventures with his loved ones.

Professionally, Daniel is looking toward leadership roles, driven by a desire to give back to the nursing profession. He hopes to share his experiences with other international nurses and help them realize their own dreams of working and thriving in the United States.

Final Takeaway

Daniel’s story is a beacon of hope for international nurses. His advice is heartfelt and clear: “Believe in yourself. Trust Avant Healthcare. Take one step at a time. The U.S. has so much to offer nurses who are willing to chase their dreams.”