Rachelle Navarro x'25

Rachelle Navarro chose to attend the UW–Madison School of Nursing because of its dedication to preparing students to become exceptional nurses. She also appreciated that the program offers resources, technologies, and learning environments that simulate real patient case-scenarios. “Best of all,” she says, “I know I have a community of peers, faculty, and staff who will support me through this experience!”

A highlight of the program so far was joining the Nursing: Diversity and Women’s Studies First-Year Interest Group. She says surrounding herself with other pre-nursing students allowed her to make connections, and she found some of her best friends through these classes, who she plans to stay in touch with post-graduation.

Navarro says it was daunting to start her journey into nursing as a first-generation student without any family members in healthcare to learn from. But joining healthcare organizations and clubs that aligned with her interests helped her learn more about nursing and solidified her passion for the field. Her advice to others who are interested in nursing is to immerse themselves in the field to see if it is the right fit. “Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there!” She adds.

When she’s not in class, you can find Navarro walking on the Lakeshore Path and catching the sunsets at the Memorial Union Terrace.