Isabella

After graduating from Taft High School, I knew I wanted to build a future centered on purpose and service. I realized nursing would be the perfect way for me to combine my passion for caring for people with a meaningful and impactful career. Because of my dedication and hard work in high school, I was awarded the Star Scholarship, which would allow me to study at City Colleges tuition-free.

I chose Wilbur Wright College to help me build the life I wanted at a price I could afford. There’s another meaningful connection behind that decision. My father is a member of the Wright Security team, and his commitment to the college’s mission of educational excellence made a lasting impression on me. Seeing his dedication firsthand inspired me to take full advantage of the opportunities Wright offered, including the Star Scholarship, as I worked toward earning my degree.

During my time at Wright College, I pushed myself to succeed academically and personally. With the guidance and support of Wright’s caring faculty and staff, I was able to navigate the transfer process and continue pursuing my goals. I transferred to Dominican University, where I began my nursing program. Nursing school challenged me in ways I had never experienced before. There were moments when the workload and expectations felt overwhelming, but I reminded myself that nothing worth having comes easy. With determination, resilience, and focus, I put my head down and gave it my very best effort.

All of that hard work paid off when I graduated from Dominican University with my Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Earning my degree was not just an academic accomplishment, it was the realization of a lifelong goal and a reminder that anything is possible. I began my nursing career at St. Alexius Medical Center in Hoffman Estates, where I had the opportunity to put my knowledge and compassion into practice while caring for patients. Today, I am in the process of transitioning from one nursing role to another, and I am excited about the new opportunities ahead in my nursing career.

Looking back, my journey from Wright College to becoming a registered nurse has been shaped by perseverance, support, and a deep commitment to helping others. I am grateful for where I started and proud of how far I have come. I hope that my story encourages other students to believe in themselves, embrace challenges, and never lose sight of their goals.

-Isabella