Brian E. Mueller Chairman | Grand Canyon University
Brian E. Mueller Chairman | Grand Canyon University
Gabrielle Viovicente, a nursing graduate from Grand Canyon University (GCU), delivered a speech at the university's winter commencement ceremony. Viovicente is among the first group of students to complete the Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at GCU’s East Valley site in Chandler, Arizona.
Reflecting on her journey, Viovicente shared her experiences as an immigrant from the Philippines who initially struggled with language barriers and academic challenges. "I didn’t know how to speak English. I didn’t know what was happening," she said about her early years in the United States.
Viovicente originally planned to become a physician but found her passion for nursing after shadowing a nurse. "After three hours, I just fell in love with nursing," she stated.
Her speech highlighted the perseverance required to succeed in nursing school and acknowledged fellow students who balanced their studies with family responsibilities. “To go through nursing school alone is really difficult,” she remarked.
Viovicente's determination was evident as she described overcoming various obstacles, including maintaining high grades to retain her scholarship. She emphasized the importance of grit and purpose, drawing inspiration from a study by Angela Duckworth on West Point cadets.
The ABSN program at GCU offers an accelerated path for students with previous college credits, allowing them to complete their degree quickly. The university plans to expand its ABSN sites across several states to address the national nursing shortage.
Cyndi North, manager of GCU’s Chandler ABSN site, praised Viovicente for her dedication and community focus: “She will be an asset to the nursing profession.”
As Viovicente prepares for her upcoming NCLEX exam, she looks forward to working in critical care and serving patients with compassion and empathy.
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