Convocation Spotlight: Kate Leitch
6 June 2025
Growing up on a farm, Kate Leitch learned a lot about life and death, and about responsibility. The deep respect she gained for the strength and fragility that exist side by side in life shaped her desire for a career in health care, and nursing felt like the best fit where she can care for others during some of their most vulnerable moments.
Here she shares how important a good support system is during school, her advice to others thinking of nursing as a career and her plans for the future.
How did you stay motivated during your studies?
There were definitely tough moments during the program, and I honestly couldn’t have done it without my classmates and friends. Having that solid support system made all the difference — we leaned on each other, pushed through together, and kept each other going. It reminded me I wasn’t alone in the journey.
What advice would you give to a student considering a bilingual program in nursing?
For any future nursing student, especially those entering the bilingual program, my biggest piece of advice is: Connect with your classmates. I spent four years with the same group of about 10 people and we became like family. We supported each other, shared the workload and got through the toughest moments together. Nursing school isn’t something you go through alone.
What comes next for you?
Right now, I’m focused on studying for the NCLEX with the goal of becoming a registered nurse soon. I’m excited to start my career and begin making a difference in people’s lives. This is just the beginning — I hope to keep learning, growing, and eventually contributing to health care in a way that supports both individuals and communities.