Student Spotlight: Kaycelyn Gajonera - UAA 2024 Consortium Library awardee and aspiring nurse
by Jessica Degnan |
While working towards her nursing degree, Kaycelyn Gajonera received the UAA 2024 Consortium Library Award for her research on 'Nutrition Guidelines and Childhood Obesity.' She shares why the School of Nursing was the best fit for her and discusses her future plans to pursue a doctorate in advanced nursing practice, with an emphasis on serving rural and underserved populations.
Name: Kaycelyn Mhae M. Gajonera
Major: Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Anticipated graduation date: December 15, 2024
Unit: School of Nursing
Hometown: Cabanatuan, Philippines
What brought you to the UAA College of Health?:
I was drawn to UAA SON because of their mission to cultivate a new generation of nurse leaders in Alaska. With an emphasis on excellence and innovation, UAA SON delivers diverse clinical learning experiences and the opportunity to learn from experts in the field.
Why did you choose the degree you are pursuing? What would your dream job be?:
My passion for nursing was rooted in compassion and a dedication to improve health outcomes in my community. A degree in nursing will allow me to commit to life-long learning and further my role as a teacher and researcher. As a nurse, my dream job would be to teach alongside the professors who taught me.
What are you involved in on campus (IE: Clubs, student organizations, etc.)? How have they contributed to your personal and professional growth?:
I am a member of Area Health Education Centers (AHEC), McNair Scholars, and Sigma Theta Tau Honor Nursing Society.
The AHEC organization has established my foundation of rural and underserved health populations, identifying gaps in health systems, addressing disparities, and promoting cultural competence in medicine.
The McNair Scholars program, directed by Dr. Sunny Mall guided my academic and professional journey by preparing me for graduate school.
Have you been involved with internships, practicum placements, research, study abroad,
or any other experience you’d like to tell us about? Please tell us how these experiences
have shaped you personally, academically, and professionally:
I was a recipient of the UAA 2024 Consortium Library Award for my shared research on “Nutrition Guidelines and Childhood Obesity” with Cara Macato and Jennifer Langley. This experience was a pivotal moment for me as an undergraduate researcher, and will serve as my motivation to advance my research skills as a graduate student.
In my fourth semester of nursing school, I received practicum placement at Providence of Alaska Medical Center Intensive Care Unit. This experience gave me valuable insight into the highest acuity of care in a hospital. Being exposed to the unique culture of this unit solidified my aspiration to care for this population.
What words of wisdom do you have for underclassmen or youth who are still considering their options after high school?:
My advice to the youth is to explore your options. Volunteer, shadow, and attend health conferences. Make sure that a career in healthcare is what you want to pursue. Once you choose a major stick to it. This will save you both time and money. Utilize student resources, meet with advisors, and join organizations pertinent to your goals.
My advice for underclassman is to be self-motivated and act as the best advocate for yourself. Do not compare yourself with others. Understand that you are your only competition. Celebrate successes no matter how small and give gratitude to those who have shaped your knowledge and cultivated who you are today.
What did you want to do when you were 10? Why?:
When I was ten years old, I wanted to make children’s books. I enjoyed reading stories with detailed illustrations and went on to make my own DIY books at home. I enjoyed the artistic element and expert use of diction and syntax. In retrospect, being a children’s book author is not that far from nursing. This is because nursing is both an art and a science, combining human connection and scientific expertise.
What was your favorite class while here at UAA, and why?:
My favorite class at UAA was Intro to General/Organic Chemistry with Professor Deborah Summers. I was not a fan of chemistry and enrolled into the class with a great reluctance. That was until I met Professor Deborah Summers, who changed my whole perspective on the topic. Her ability to simplify intricate concepts made chemistry seem as easy as grade school math. I realized that I didn’t lack knowledge, I lacked a good teacher. She taught me the irreplaceable role a mentor has on their student and their ability to change a perspective.
What is a cause you care about?:
I care about increasing awareness and accessibility to free or reduced healthcare resources. I find that these often go overlooked and don’t reach key populations that can truly benefit from them.
What is your favorite spot on campus and why?:
My favorite location on campus is the library. I spend a majority of my time using the study rooms, tutor resources, and checking out library books. Being in a shared quiet space helps me to lock in while studying.
Who is your favorite professor or staff member and why?:
My favorite professor at UAA SON is Professor Marisa Bune. She is the epitome of a nurse leader and has given me valuable insight into the world of nursing. As a mentor she allows me to make informed decisions on my career goals and guides my professional attitudes.
What is your favorite memory from your time here at UAA?:
My favorite memory at UAA was collaborating with my peers in nursing skills lab. From obtaining vital signs to videoing ourselves perform a focused assessment, the shared enjoyment is an irreplaceable experience I will keep with me after graduating.
What is your plan after graduation?:
After graduation, I plan to work in an intensive care unit. My long-term career goal is to pursue a doctorate degree in advanced nursing practice with an emphasis in rural and underserved populations.
What is your favorite quote? Why?:
“The only true wisdom is knowing you know nothing” Socrates. This quote best describes my approach to academia: open-minded and humble.
What hobbies do you enjoy in your spare time?:
I enjoy reading, my favorite book is The Magic Strings of Frankie Presto by Mitch Albom. I recommend health students read When Breathe Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi. It is the real-life story of a neurosurgeon who is diagnosed with terminal cancer. The dynamics explained in the novel highlight the many paradoxes a health student may encounter in their clinical journey. I also enjoy practicing hot yoga and snowboarding.
Tell us about an obstacle you overcame.:
The biggest hardship I encountered as an undergraduate student was navigating the college admission process. As a first-generation student I lacked guidance and experience. I was able to overcome this obstacle by reaching out to multiple advisors and UAA faculty who were glad to help me.
What is your secret to college success?:
Allow your passion to drive your pursuit. Have a plan, use your resources, come prepared and eager to learn.
What has been your happiest/proudest moment?:
My proudest moment at UAA has yet to come. It will probably be when I walk across stage on graduation day, surrounded by family and friends.
What was the best advice you were ever given by a professor, staff, or classmate while here at UAA?:
Be humble, hungry, and smart.
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