Convocation Spotlight: Raya Weimer
5 June 2025
Raya Weimer has been drawn to the nursing profession for as long as she can remember. She has always felt a strong calling to the health-care professions, because they offer a unique opportunity to make people feel seen and valued during the most vulnerable times in their lives. She believes nursing has the power to transform someone's experience by offering both physical and emotional support and she wants to be part of a profession that helps people feel cared for and respected, ensuring they view the health-care team as positive, compassionate individuals who are there to make a difference.
Here, she talks about the power of self-reliance during challenging times and shares advice for incoming nursing students.
What drew you to a BSc in Nursing?
I was drawn to the bachelor of science in nursing collaborative program at the 黑料不打烊 because it provides the ideal foundation to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to deliver exceptional, holistic care while making a meaningful impact in people's lives.
How did you stay motivated during your studies?
Throughout this journey, the person who kept me going when things got tough was myself. This program was one of the most challenging tasks I’ve ever faced, and when obstacles arose, I had to be the one to push through and believe in my ability to complete it. Self-love is crucial in this kind of program, as it will test you physically, mentally and emotionally. You must learn how to care for yourself and stay motivated, because ultimately, it’s up to you to keep moving forward and achieve your goals.
What advice would you give to a student considering a PhD in nursing?
My advice to anyone considering the BScN program is to give yourself grace. There will be moments when you feel like you don’t know anything, and that’s completely normal. Nursing is a demanding and complex profession, and no one expects you to have all the answers from Day 1. Embrace the learning process and remember that mistakes are a part of growth. Adaptability, resilience and openness are essential to thrive in this field. Surround yourself with a supportive team, and find role models in your clinical placements who can guide you and help you navigate the challenges. Create a learning environment where you feel comfortable asking questions, making mistakes and continuously evolving.
Be patient with yourself; each step, no matter how small, is a form of progress. And don’t forget to laugh when you mispronounce medical terms … everyone does it! Trust in your ability to become not just a nurse, but a compassionate leader in health care. You’ve got this!