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Abby Rutgers-Newark CO'29

1. What first sparked your interest in your major? Was there a specific moment, class, or person that inspired you? 


From a young age, I knew I wanted to be a nurse because of my mom. Watching her come home after long, exhausting shifts and still care for our family with love and strength showed me what true dedication looks like. Her resilience and selflessness continue to inspire me to follow a path where I can care for others the way she’s always cared for us.


2. Why did you choose your college to study this major?


Even though most nursing programs teach the same material, Rutgers–Newark stood out to me because of how it felt. The smaller class sizes, supportive professors, and close-knit campus community made it a place where I knew I’d be more than just a student. It felt like somewhere I could really grow, not just in my studies, but as a future nurse and as a person.


3. What do you hope to do with your degree? What kind of impact do you want to make?


Travel nursing is meaningful to me because it gives me the chance to help where it’s truly needed, supporting patients and healthcare teams during their most challenging moments. Each assignment teaches me something new, whether it’s adjusting to a different environment, connecting with new teams, or caring for patients from a wide range of backgrounds. These real, hands-on experiences are helping me grow into the kind of nurse I’ve always aspired to be, someone who is skilled, compassionate and truly dedicated to making a difference in people’s lives.


4. What advice would you give someone starting their college application process?


Don’t feel pressured to follow what others are doing and choose a college that fits your needs. Everyone’s path is different, and comparing yourself to others will only take away from your own journey. Focus on what matters most to you, like academic support, campus environment, financial aid, student life, and opportunities for growth in your intended field.

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