University of Rochester nursing students celebrate graduation

ROCHESTER N.Y. (WROC) — The Eastman theatre was packed Friday with family and friends supporting the 2024 nursing graduates. Many of whom said they’re ready to take on any challenges that come their way. Others said they’re hoping to make a difference within their field.

Graduate Samantha Loper says despite the rough start in the year 2020 –She feels well prepared to take on the world thanks to the U of R staff.

“Having to do the harder classes such as advanced pharmacology and advanced pathophysiology definitely presented its challenges having to do that from home and not in-time questions, but the staff at the university of Rochester and professors were supportive during that time,” said Loper.

Graduate Cassie Weis says when it comes to the nursing shortage –positive recognition within the field could go a long way.

“We really are the backbone of healthcare. Once we acknowledge that hopefully we can draw more people to our profession and welcome them into the ranks,” said Weis.

Graduate Thaw Htoo says he’s been translating for his parents during doctor visits since he was 13 years old, and he knew despite the shortage there needs to be more people in the field that look, and sound like him.

“They didn’t know any English and if they were to be told their diagnoses they wouldn’t understand what they are unless they are translated or interpreted,” said Htoo.

Graduate Irene Mensah gives words of encouragement for students following behind.

“Have a mindset that I am not going into this career to make thousands. I’m not going into this career to just have the title but actually genuinely want to help people. Find your passion and work hard at it to make change on a macro level and not just keeping it to a minimal just expanding beyond what you think you can do to help the greater community at large,” said Mensah.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Employment Projections 2021-2031, the registered nursing workforce is expected to grow by 6 percent over the next decade.

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