Where Are They Now? Meet Sophia Robinson, MSN, RN

November 17, 2020

Sophia is originally from a small community in Jamaica, where she worked as an R.N. before moving to the U.S. in 2018 to pursue better opportunities for her family. She is recently engaged and is living her American Dream in Missouri with her daughter.

Why did you join Avant Healthcare Professionals?

I was primarily concerned about providing a better life for my daughter. I believed this would be possible if I were living and working in the United States of America. I was fortunate to have friends who were progressing through the relocation process and others who made a similar successful transition with the assistance of Avant Healthcare Professionals. I decided to utilize this process, and to date, I have no regrets. 

How was your Avant Healthcare Professionals experience?

Avant pledged to provide a unique combination of clinical and cultural transitions training and personalized, ongoing support to ensure a successful placement. I can truly attest to this. The licensure and immigration process was made easy for my family and me. Their exceptional clinical and cultural programs and their highly experienced caring team helped me achieve several professional and personal goals.

I continue to be impressed, even well into my second year. I am still benefiting from the team's support through my Avant Nurse Manager and H.R. specialist's monthly follow-up. They make themselves available if any issues arise.

Over the years, I found that the information and support provided helped my growth and development. I recently had a call with my H.R. Specialist. As we discussed my approaching conversion process, she highlighted essential points to keep in mind moving forward. I was amazed and grateful.  

Where were you placed?

I am currently working as a staff nurse in the Progressive Care Unit at a hospital in Missouri. The management and staff are incredibly supportive and care about my growth and development.

I thoroughly enjoy working with my hospital and assigned unit. As the famous saying goes, "hard work pays off!" I have had the opportunity to learn and grow professionally. I am a successful preceptor to new hires and junior nurses; I am currently working as a relief charge nurse, and I am a part of the unit council.

As I move into my conversion period, I am incredibly excited about taking on more responsibilities and growing with the hospital. I will continue to strive for excellence as I deliver safe and comprehensive patient care while supporting my team. 

How have you integrated with your community?

I am living my American dream through hard work and dedication, along with the support of the entire Avant healthcare team. I am a homeowner; I was able to purchase my house in May of this year. I completed my Master's in Nursing. I will be a charge nurse on my unit following my conversion. Another critical happy moment, I am engaged!

Any advice to other nurses thinking about coming to the U.S. to pursue their American dream?

First, believe the American Dream is real and is achievable. There will be bumps along the way, but with the dedicated Avant Healthcare team and your commitment, your dreams will come true. Avant Healthcare Professionals will stick with you when you go through difficult times. You have to be willing to ride through the rough times and believe and trust their guidance. Avant's team does follow through. They have taken many nurses through the process, and they know how to overcome the challenges when they come.

The process is hard work, but you are never alone. A friend once told me, "delay is not denial."

Good luck in achieving YOUR "American Dream." Be positive. Have patience. Work hard and remember, "Delay is not denial."